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Volume 27 - No. 11 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages
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AMLC seeks FBI help on $81-M cyber heist by Lawrence
agcaoiLi and Marvin Sy Philstar.com
laundering of $81 million allegedly stolen by Chinese hackers from the account of the Bangladesh Bank in mANILA—the Anti-money the Us federal reserve Bank. Julia Bacay-Abad, executive Laundering Council (AmLC) is seeking the help of the federal director of AmLC, admitted makBureau of Investigation (fBI) in ing the request at a hearing on unmasking the persons behind the the issue by the senate Blue
ribbon committee on tuesday, march 15. “I was the one who requested assistance from the fBI,” Abad said in a reply to a query from sen. ralph recto. she also pointed out the AmLC PAGE A2
RCBC president Lorenzo Tan: Mum’s the word, RCBC branch manager Maia Santos-Deguito: To talk in executive session, Businessman William Go: Offered P10M to keep quiet, Philrem president Salud Bautista: Received instructions from Deguito. Inquirer.net photos by Lyn Rillon
USA
DATELINE Super Tuesday Part 3: Trump and Clinton dominate primary night from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
oN tuesday night, march 15, five more states held key presidential primary contests--ohio, florida, Illinois, North Carolina, and missouri--where two party candidates emerged as front-runners of the race. hillary Clinton swept all five contests in florida, Illinois, North Carolina, missouri, and ohio, racking up more delegates to solidify her lead for the Democratic nomination. the victories bolster Clinton’s claim that she is her party’s only candidate who can win diverse states that will be pivotal in the November general election, CNN reported, even despite her surprise loss in michigan last week. “We are moving closer to securing the Democratic Party nomination and winning this election in November,” Clinton told supporters during a victory speech in West Palm Beach, florida, where her biggest win (214 delegates, 64 percent of the vote) took place. PAGE A4
Fil-Am faces weapons charge JerseY City police arrested a 59-year old filipino man tuesday, march 8 inside the hudson mall for carrying a handgun while dressed in police-style clothing. he was identified as Julio Concepcion of Boyd Court and was initially charged with one count of possession of a handgun without first obtaining a permit to carry. According to reports, he posted a $50,000 cash-or-bond bail, but an arrest warrant was issued when he failed to appear for his first hearing Wednesday morning, the Jersey Journal reported. he was charged additionally on Wednesday evening with possession of an assault weapon and hollow point bullets and after failing to appear in court on the original charges, he was arrested at his home. the judge ordered him held without bail. PAGE A4
SENATE HEARING ON MONEY LAUNDERING. Senators in a huddle during the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on Tuesday, March 15, on the alleged $100 million that was laundered in the Philippines. Photo shows (from left to right) Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, Sergio Osmeña III (seated), Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto, Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Alan Peter Cayetano, Teofisto “TG” Guingona III and Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. In his opening statement Guingona said that he “cannot agree to an executive session because subject funds belong to the Bangladesh government which did not invoke confidentiality.” Senate photo by Alex Nuevaespaña
Comelec: Overseas Filipino voters could swing May elections by Marvin
Bionat Inquirer.net
PortsmoUth, New hampshire — there are now 1.38 million overseas filipino voters, according to the Philippines’ Commission on elections (Comelec). It’s a critical mass that now puts the overseas vote in the same league as the top ten vote-rich provinces in the Philippines and positions overseas filipinos as a potential swing vote in the coming may elections. the emergence of this new class of voters now poised to flex its growing political muscle did not happen without growing pains. there was great excitement among advo-
cates and supporters of the political empowerment of overseas filipinos when the absentee voting bill was finally passed into law in 2003. section 2 of Article V of the 1987 Philippine Constitution clearly states that “Congress shall provide … a system for absentee voting by qualified filipinos abroad.” 15-year wait the long 15-year wait, which saw years of sporadic and disparate lobbying that ultimately set the stage for a more organized and relentless global push, finally came to an end. the afterglow of political victory was not dampened even if only 364,187 overseas filiPAGE A3 Filipinos voting in Hongkong.
Inquirer.net photo
Marcos: Aquino behind hate campaign by JaiMe
PiLaPiL ManilaTimes.net
seNAtor ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos Jr. on tuesday, march 15 accused President Benigno Aquino III of masterminding a hate campaign against him and his family to derail his vice presidential bid. “[this hate campaign] is led by the
President. It was the content of his speech in eDsA 1 [30th anniversary last february 25] and was repeated during the graduation ceremony of the Philippine military Academy last week,” the senator said after a road sortie in tondo and Binondo districts in manila. eDsA 1, a people power revolt in 1986, PAGE A2
Arum raves about Pacquiao: Best I’ve seen since Oscar fight by dino FORMER US Vice President and global climate action advocate Al Gore on Wednesday urged the public to act as a “counterweight” to governments and big businesses that continue to use coal-fired plants and other polluting sources of energy. On the third and final day of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps training in Manila, Gore urged some 750 climate warriors from 33 countries to “summon the political will to be in the streets, knock on doors and organize others to build a counterweight to business.” Inquirer.net photo by Richard A. Reyes
Al Gore to Pinoys: Use ‘people power’ to address climate change by aLexiS
roMero Philstar.com
mANILA—former Us vice president and environment activist Al Gore on Wednesday, march 16 urged filipinos to use “people power” to convince leaders to act on climate change and to counter the influence of industries opposed to the phasing out of coal. Gore said groups advocating climate action should organize themselves and use technology like the social media
to spread their message and express their concerns. “People in social media can serve as counter balance (to the coal lobbyists),” Gore said during the Climate reality Leadership Corps training in Pasay. “I believe it’s (social media) a revolutionary that can dramatically increase people power,” he added. Coal-fired power plants emit carbon, which has been linked to rising global PAGE A3
Maragay Philstar.com
mANILA—manny Pacquiao just reminded Bob Arum of the fighter who pulled off one of the biggest upsets in boxing history. the top rank chief dropped by Pac-
Manny Pacquiao and Top Rank CEO and founder Bob Arum
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quiao’s training at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles on tuesday, and he liked what he saw. “I was very pleased with how manny looked,” Arum told steve Kim of boxingscene.com. PAGE A3
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From The FronT Page
AMLC seeks FBI help on $81-M... PAGE A1 has also sought the assistance of its counterpart in Hong Kong to check on the $20 million transferred to Hong Kong. Abad told the committee investigations into the matter started when the head of the Bangladesh Bank wrote a letter to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Gover-
nor Amando Tetangco Jr. last Feb. 11 seeking help in the recovery of $100 million stolen from its account in the US Federal Reserve. The request involved $81 million deposited in the accounts of Michael Francisco Cruz, Enrico Teodoro Vasquez, Alfred Santos Vergara and Jessie Christopher Lagrosas in the Rizal Commercial
Banking Corp. (RCBC). Abad explained the accounts were opened with only $500 deposit on May 15 last year. The accounts were inactive until Feb. 5 to Feb. 9, during which $30.28 million was deposited in Lagrosas’ account, $25.1 million in Vasquez’s account, $19.99 million in Vergara’s and $6.29 million in Cruz’s. Of the amount deposited in the account of Lagrosas, Abad said $22.73 million was withdrawn and deposited in an account businessman William So Go opened just last Feb. 1. On the other hand, the rest of the amount was converted by PhilRem from US dollars to pesos and delivered to Weikang Xu, Eastern Hawaii Leisure Co. and Solaire Resorts owned by Bloomberry Hotels Inc. Upon receiving the request of Bangladesh Bank, Abad said AMLC immediately got in touch with RCBC and started conducting an initial investigation. She admitted that AMLC was only able to file a petition to freeze the concerned accounts last Feb. 29 and got an approval on March 1. “We are completing our investigation into the matter. We are doing our best to find out the truth and bring justice to where it is due,� she added. PAGE A4
TOND SUPPORTERS. Tondo residents give vice presidential candidate Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong� R. Marcos Jr. a resounding welcome when he brought his Unity Caravan to Manila on Tuesday, March 15. Senate photo
Marcos: Aquino behind hate... PAGE A1 toppled then-President Ferdinand Marcos. “They will not choose any event, moment or occasion. They will do it repeatedly,� Marcos said. The people, according to the senator, are not asking him to apologize for the “sins� of his father. “That’s not the issue. They keep on reviving that. On the contrary, we have been hearing different things during our sorties. The issues are the spiraling cost of utilities like water and power, the
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lack of infrastructure projects, the sorry condition of hospitals, traffic everywhere, dilapidated airports and proliferation of illegal drugs,� Marcos told a forum sponsored by the United Filipino Consumers and Commuters-Water for Refund Movement (UFCC-WARM) led by Rodolfo Javellana Jr. in Manila. On Monday night, he urged political leaders to set aside political colors for the good of the country. In an interview after the Go Negosyo Talks series, the senator said past administrations were not able to unite Filipinos and instead sowed divisiveness. “Ang mga lider natin, pinagaaway-away tayo sa halip na pagkaisahin kaya hindi tayo umasenso. Hindi na dapat ito. Dapat bumalik ang ating mga lider sa kung ano dapat ang kanilang tungkulin ay iyon ay tumulong kahit na anong kulay ng kanilang politika, kahit hindi kakampi. Dapat ang pagtulong ay pantaypantay para sa lahat [Our leaders pit us against each other, that is the reason why we have not progressed. Our leaders should give help no matter what their political color],� he pointed out. Marcos’ Unity Caravan on Tuesday passed through the streets of Tondo and Malate districts. People from all walks of life lined up the streets and flashed the peace sign to show their support to his candidacy. “Like in all the places that I have visited when I started this campaign, I feel I’m very much
welcomed here in Manila especially here in Tondo. I am very thankful to the people of Tondo for allowing me to bring my message of national unity right at their doorsteps,� the senator said. Marcos vowed to find solutions to the problems confronting ordinary Filipinos like cramped railways. “The problems started after the government failed to renew the contract of the maintenance firm. We will review the reasons for this. But it is clear that the management of [Metro Rail Transit 3] is a failure. Compared to the Light Rail Transit [Lines 1 and 2], MRT 3 has more problems,� he said. “Our main goal is to provide affordable, efficient and affordable public transport so as to discourage people from buying cars and avoid clogging of cars on major streets,� Marcos added. The senator suggested building of classrooms that are climatechange tolerant. He said utility services should be reviewed. “There is this trend for the government to privatize almost everything. It is better for the government to run utility firms that are not earning rather than allow a private company take advantage of the consumers,� Marcos pointed out. He said basic services must be handled by the government and not be left to private firms. “We want to lift the welfare of the public, particularly the poor who are mostly denied basic services.�
PAGE A4
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Comelec: Overseas Filipino voters could... PAGE A1
pinos actually registered to vote for the 2004 elections. Comelec underestimated what it took to maximize registration, scheduling what in hindsight was a very short two-month registration period. That level of participation was quite low considering there were an estimated seven million overseas Filipinos at the time. In addition, voter turnout was just 65 percent, much lower than the 75 percent turnout in the Philippines. But it was the first time the law was implemented, so there was a nice-first-try sense of accomplishment. In a joint congressional oversight committee hearing to discuss the implementation of the law, Representative Teddy Locsin congratulated the Comelec and the Department of Foreign Affairs for “doing their best.” Steady increase The succeeding two elections saw a steady increase in the number of registered voters, but the numbers were still way below expectations. The 2006 registration campaign raised the total to 504,124 voters. Worse, turnout in the 2007 elections plummeted to just 16 percent. Interest in that election year was expected to be less because it was not a presidential election, but the drop in turnout was alarmingly steep. Some members of Congress threatened to cancel overseas voting considering the seeming lack of interest, but the threats were probably made mainly to prod all the stakeholders (Comelec, DFA, civil society, Filipino community leaders abroad and overseas Filipinos in general) to more deliberately and collaboratively help generate broader participation.
For the 2010 presidential elections, Comelec scheduled a 7month registration period. The total number of registered voters, after purging lists of those who had not voted for two consecutive elections, was 589,830—just a slight increase from 2007. Turnout was 26 percent, an improvement from 2007 but still very low. This was the election year when President Benigno Aquino was voted into office. He was leading in all polls by double digits, so the lack of serious competition did not help turn out the overseas vote. Pulling out all stops In 2013, total registered voters shot up to 975,263 (a 65-percent jump), partly the benefit of aiming high—the goal was one million. Comelec tried to pull out all stops to maximize voter registration. A longer registration period was conducted from November 2, 2011 to October 31, 2012. Registration booths were set up at the OWWA, POEA and CFO offices, and even at various terminals at NAIA. More diplomats were trained as voter registration officers. For Filipinos living too far from a Philippine consulate, mobile registration was made available. The information dissemination campaign was also much more aggressive. Philippine missions were more actively involved. NGOs, such as the Center for Migrant Affairs, continued to help by bombarding overseas Filipinos with reminders to register. In the U.S., where many Filipinos hold a green card, the infamous provision requiring those who want to vote to sign an affidavit signifying intent to return within two years was finally removed in 2013. The provision had been inserted by legislators as a last-
ditch compromise to neutralize key opposition to the bill. At the time, some members of Congress strongly believed that only contractual overseas Filipino workers (those in the Middle East or Hong Kong, for example) were entitled to vote, excluding those who have acquired permanent legal status in their host countries. With four election cycles under their belt, the Comelec and DFA seem to have become more adept at orchestrating broader participation. The overseas voter registration campaign launched in 2015 upped the total number of registered voters to 1.38 million. That’s an impressive 42-percent jump from 2013. Can the now 1.38 million-strong overseas Filipino voters be a deciding factor in the May national elections? If they were a province, overseas voters would make it to the list of the country’s top 10 vote-rich provinces, just under Rizal (ranked #8), which has 1.4 million voters, and ranking higher than Iloilo and Nueva Ecija with their 1.34 and 1.3 million voters, respectively. Critical in close contests Certainly, the overseas vote can be critical in close contests, which seem to characterize the current presidential, vice presidential and senate races. With the current field of presidential candidates, for instance, the last two Pulse Asia polls (conducted in the latter half of February) showed a statistical tie between Senator Grace Poe and Vice President Jejomar Binay, with Poe leading with 26 percent in both polls, and Binay trailing by just a percentage point or two. In the race for vice president, the last Pulse Asia survey showed Senators Chiz Escudero and Bongbong Marcos in a tie. In the Senate race, where 12 PAGE A4
Congresswoman Dina Titus and her Washington DC and District Office staff visit Chinatown Plaza and the famous Journey to the West statue during a tour of Congressional District One. The group gathered this week to discuss legislative priorities and issues of critical importance to Southern Nevadans. Photo from the Office of Rep. Dina Titus
Al Gore to Pinoys: Use ‘people power’ to... PAGE A1
temperatures, climate change, rising sea levels and extreme weather conditions. Environment activists claim that climate change poses the greatest threat to the global economy and endangers the lives of people living in disaster-prone areas like the Philippines. There have been calls to phase out coal and to promote the use of the environment-friendly renewable energy but these are being opposed by industries and skeptics who are not convinced that climate change was caused by human activities. Gore stressed that people who care about the environment should go beyond posting online comments. “Meet with other human beings. Meet them in the eye,” the former US vice president said. “This system can be made to hand a lot more effectively,” Arum sending him to retirement. work if and only if the people in As he enters the final phase of continued. Against Mayweather, Pacquiao this room decide to make a differtraining for his third showdown with Timothy Bradley next month, admitted being hampered by ence, find ways to connect with Pacquiao, according to Arum, is a torn rotator cuff in his right one another and use the fabled shoulder, which he claimed kept strength in number,” he added. flashing the same deadly form. Gore also encouraged parThe difference? Arum noted him from throwing powerful right ticipants of the training to arm that Pacquiao no longer has hooks. But Pacquiao’s shoulder has themselves with knowledge about traces of the shoulder injury he incurred while training for Floyd fully healed, and Arum is pleased the climate. “Someone who has political with the results so far. Mayweather Jr. last year. “I just saw him hitting the pads should be in the streets knocking “Because he [Pacquiao] could function with the right hand. and he’s using that right hand. It’s on doors, organizing others to But he’s had that tear since the cracking as good as the left, and create a powerful political counDe La Hoya fight, which is now that hasn’t been the case before,” terweight,” he said. Antonio La Viña, dean of the repaired and he’s using that right he said.
Arum raves about Pacquiao...
PAGE A1 Pacquiao impressed Arum with his work on the mitts with trainer Freddie Roach, leaving the veteran promoter reminiscing about how the Filipino icon looked prior to one of his greatest fights ever. “This Manny Pacquiao is the best Pacquiao I’ve seen before the (Oscar) De La Hoya fight,” Arum declared. Arum was alluding to that fateful night in December 2008 when Pacquiao, a heavy underdog, battered De La Hoya for eight rounds,
A
Ateneo School of Government and a member of the Philippine delegation to the Parks climate talks, agreed that the climate issue is something that should be brought to the streets. “We cannot underestimate the power of the coal lobby but getting a lot of people to advocate this in the national and local level will make a difference that this change will happen,” La Viña said. “It’s not a fight that can be won in the inner circles or inner rooms of Malacanang or Congress. It has to be won in the streets. It has to be won in the plant sites and spill over to Congress, the executive branch and even to the judiciary,” he added. La Viña said the building of new coal-fired plants is a roadblock to efforts to address clmatye change. “We have lots of coal-fired plants already being built. Except some communities fighting that, there’s not much we can do,” La Viña said. “The first thing the Philippines should do is put a cap on coal,” he added. La Viña noted that the Philippines has committed to reduce carbon emissions by 70 percent by 2030 in the climate action plan it submitted to the United Nations. “We do say that on the area of energy we are failing and we will not be complying if we do
business as usual,” the educator said. “We have no space to make mistakes for ecosystems forests, marine coastal fisheries…We have to preserve and conserve them. Even if we do everything in energy, if we lose our forests and misuse our land, we will not meet the 70 percent (reduction goal),” he added. Climate Change Commission Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman said the government is revisiting its climate action plan or the so-called intended nationally determined contribution to meet its targets. “Right now, the national agencies concerned are developing their respective national roadmaps and examine existing policies to be able to really deliver the targets they set per sector and deliver the aggregate (carbon emission) reduction of 70 percent by 2030,” de Guzman said. Last December, world leaders who attended the Paris climate talks reached a landmark deal that aims to hold global warming “well below” two degrees Celsius. They also agreed to pursue measures that would limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Critics of the Paris agreement, however, claimed that the deal was too vague on important issues like climate finance for vulnerable countries.
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China on EU’s South China Sea position: Don’t look at us by Camille
Diola Philstar.com
CHINA on Tuesday, March 15 pointed to rival claimants after the European Union came out with a statement against the deployment of missiles and military forces in the South China Sea. EU High Representative Federica Mogherini on March 11 said recent military activities in the key trade route is a major concern as it affects regional security and freedom of navigation and overflight. “The EU therefore calls on all claimants to refrain from militarisation in the region, from the use or threat of force, and to abstain from unilateral actions,� Mogherini said. Lu Kang, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, blamed “coastal countries� it failed to name for being the “crux and root cause� of the longstanding maritime row. “[The] territorial disputes [are] caused by some coastal countries’ illegal occupation of some islands and reefs of the Nansha Islands in violation of the UN Charter and the basic norms guiding international relations since the 1970s,� Lu said at a press briefing, calling the disputed Spratly (Kalayaan) Islands by their Chinese name. The Philippines controls a
China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang
handful of the habitable features in an area of the South China Sea it calls the West Philippines Sea, while Vietnam and Taiwan also occupy some islands nearby. China, meanwhile, has prevented access to Philippine-claimed Scarborough Shoal in 2012 and has built islands hosting military outposts and runways in recent years. Apparently referring to the United States, Lu suggested that other countries in the region and outside of it should also work on the non-militarization of the waters. “I want to stress that non-militarization of the South China Sea requires the concerted efforts of countries both in and outside the region. It is hoped that relevant parties can respect history and
Fil-Am faces weapons...
PAGE A1
It was learned that Concepcion worked for the Department of Defense from 1989 to 2003 but it is unclear as of press time what his role was in the department. He allegedly told police that he is a retired federal law enforcement officer providing an ID and complied with the officers who arrived on the scene after receiving a call from an off-duty officer who reported the suspicious condition. Jersey City spokeswoman Jennifer Morrill said Concepcion, who was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, was found sitting at a table in front of the Popeye’s restaurant at ap-
proximately 11:30 a.m. He was wearing a full-duty police belt, with a .40 caliber gun and two magazines in the pouch. After securing the weapon, officers asked Concepcion if he had any additional weapons, to which he said yes in the trunk. There, police recovered a .38 caliber fully-loaded gun and two bullet proof vests. Several hours later during the course of the investigation Concepcion was arrested while in custody at the West District, according to Morrill. During the course of the investigation, officers discovered Concepcion had been an employee of the Department of Defense from 1989
efforts made by regional countries in maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea,� Lu said. The US Navy has been conducting freedom of navigation operations near artificial islands China built on contested reefs and features in the waterway. The emerging Asian power claims over 80 percent of the maritime conduit as historically its own. “It is hoped that relevant parties can respect history and efforts made by regional countries in maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea,� Lu said. Earlier this month, the US Navy deployed a small armada, the John C. Stennis Strike Group, to the South China Sea where it spotted Chinese Navy vessels remaining in its vicinity during the operation.
through 2003, however his role with the DOD is still under investigation. Concepcion also told officers he had additional weapons in his home, and two additional firearms were recovered during a subsequent search. Members of the city’s Filipino community expressed their reactions on social media, calling the arrest as “unfortunate�. A couple of residents said that they have always seen Mr. Concepcion either in the mall or along Westside Avenue wearing police-style clothing which they thought were his uniform as a policeman or military police. (Momar G. Visaya/AJPress)
Super Tuesday Part 3: Trump and Clinton... PAGE A1 Clinton added that by the end of the night, she would have two million more votes than her opponent, Bernie Sanders, and hold a lead of more than 300 delegates. “We are going to stand up for American workers and make sure no one takes advantage of us-not China, not Wall Street, not overpaid corporate executives,� she said. In exit polls conducted by NBC News, of those who voted across the five states in the Super Tuesday primaries, only about half of Democrat primary voters say they would be satisfied with the outcome if their favored candidate doesn’t end up the eventual nominee. About half of Clinton supporters in those states say they would be satisfied if Sanders were the eventual party nominee. Sanders would need to win about 72 percent of the remaining delegates in order to do so, according to CNN estimates, and time may be running out for him unless he can start racking up huge victory margins in coming state contests. However, most Democratic strategists expect Sanders to stay in the race for several months. Clinton’s campaign strategy has been questioned recently, particularly with Sanders’ big
win in Michigan, but gave the Vermont senator a tougher climb for the nomination after winning more of the Midwest. Clinton’s multiple victories on Tuesday foreshadowed a general election battle with Republican front-runner, Donald Trump. Trump prevailed in the biggest contest of the night, winning in Florida, North Carolina, Missouri, and Illinois. “This was an amazing evening,� he said from Palm Beach, Florida, where he gained 99 delegates-the top prize--and 46 percent of the state vote. “This is my second home, Florida. To win by that kind of number is incredible.� The New York real estate billionaire has won in 18 states so far. “We’re going to make our country rich again. We’re going to make our country great again, and we need the rich in order to make the great, I’m sorry to tell you,� he said. Gov. John Kasich managed to best Trump in his home state of Ohio, ridding him of 66 crucial delegates. “We are all very, very happy,� Kasich told CNN. Despite his win in only one state, it is unclear how he can overtake Trump, who is far ahead in the delegate race. “I will not take the low road to the highest office in the land,� he
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AMLC seeks FBI help on $81-M... PAGE A2
Denial For his part, RCBC president and chief executive officer Lorenzo Tan vehemently denied any involvement in the irregularity and vowed to cooperate with legislators. “We vehemently deny and disavow any and all knowledge, complicity or participation in the alleged money laundering of $100 million in the Philippines,� Tan told the committee chaired by Sen. Teofisto Guingona III. According to Tan, RCBC has put in place systems, measures and policies that ensure compliance with prevailing laws and with applicable rules and regulations of the BSP. He said the bank has a boardapproved and updated Money Laundering Prevention Program Manual, as well as a department dedicated to anti-money laundering matters and an anti-money laundering committee composed of senior group and committee heads. Tan explained the bank is conducting its own investigation into the alleged money-laundering scheme. Tan also denied the accusations made by RCBC Jupiter branch manager Maia Santos-Deguito that the questionable transactions facilitated by her branch had his approval. “These allegations are baseless and malicious,� he said. “More importantly, I have no personal knowledge of, much less personal participation in, any of the transactions that are subject to this inquiry,� he said. He explained RCBC processes in excess of two million transactions worth P1 trillion per month. “These transactions are not known to me, and these do not and would not have had to be approved by me, even as CEO and president, because to impose such a requirement would slow down the process that needs to be expeditious and efficient,� Tan said. Tan on Monday night urged fellow bankers to be more vigilant against system and institutional risks as he turned over the presi-
dency of the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) to his elder brother BDO president Nestor Tan. For her part, Deguito who is represented by lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, refused to answer any question as she invoked her right against self-incrimination as a case has been filed against her before the Department of Justice. In the Senate hearing, Tan did not go into details as he invoked the Bank Secrecy Law. “I cannot talk specifically about this case because of bank secrecy, but I assure you that an investigation is going on in our bank to determine the actual facts that happened,â€? Tan said when asked by Guingona if there was a failure in the procedure of verifying the identities of the account owners. Tan also refused to speak about a stop transfer order allegedly issued last Feb. 8, which was Chinese New Year. “I cannot confirm or deny this request specific to this transaction, but as a general rule, when there is a freeze order on an account, the branch manager involved should comply with such order,â€? the RCBC president added. A visibly irked Guingona said Tan could not invoke the Bank Secrecy Law as the money was owned by Bangladesh Bank. The senator said that at the time the request was made, $58 million was still in the accounts held by RCBC and would have been retained had the bank immediately acted on the request. “The one that can invoke secrecy is the owner of the funds. The owner of the funds is the central bank of Bangladesh, and they’re here precisely to ask us to help them recover the funds. They are not invoking secrecy,â€? the senator said. The Bangladesh ambassador was present during the hearing. Furthermore, RCBC’s antimoney laundering head Laurinda Rogero also invoked bank secrecy when asked by Sen. Sergio OsmeĂąa III about the time the bank received the stop payment order.
Overseas Filipino voters could swing...
PAGE A3 seats are up for grabs, the overseas vote can be an even more significant factor. The difference between number 12 and number 13 in senatorial elections can be as small as 10,000 votes, as was actually the case between Roberto Biazon and Robert Barbers in 2004.
Overseas voters too can decisively vote for party-list groups, helping favored parties to reach the critical threshold, which is 2 percent of the national vote, to earn a seat in the House of Representatives. Now that overseas absentee voters have reached a critical mass, the key for them to actually
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impact electoral outcomes is to raise voter turnout. If in May it stays at a low 26 percent as in the 2010 presidential elections, or even lower at 16 percent as in 2007, then overseas voters may rightfully feel empowered when they cast their ballot, but their true influence will be greatly diminished.
told supporters in Cleveland. “I’m getting ready to rent a covered wagon; we’re going to have a big sail and have the wind blow us to the Rocky Mountains and over the mountains to California.â€? Texas Sen. Ted Cruz also claimed “a good nightâ€? from a rally in Houston. He and Trump are locked in a tight battle for Missouri, where the Associated Press reported extremely tight ratings throughout the night. In the end, Cruz was second in the state, winning 40.7 percent of the vote (and zero delegates) to Trump’s 40.9 percent. At the end of the night, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, having lost disastrously in his home state, dropped out, leaving three Republican candidates in the race. “America is in the middle of a real political storm, a real tsunami and we should have seen this coming,â€? Rubio, who has been fighting bitterly with Trump, said in his final speech. “While we are on the right side, this year, we will not be on the winning side.â€? Trump, however, was sweet in his last words to Rubio, congratulating the senator for “having run a tough campaign.â€? “He is tough. He is smart and THE GRADUATES. Philippine Military Academy graduates toss their chaku caps up into the air after graduation ceremonies at the PMA in he has got a great future.â€? (Allyson Baguio City. Kristian Daeve Gelacio Abiqui, who topped the Gabay-Laya Class of 2016, received the Presidential Saber Award. ManilaTimes.net photo by Thom PicaĂąa Escobar/AJPress)
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She pointed out she could not speak about the specific incident because it has yet to be confirmed if the funds in question were indeed stolen. But Guingona said the “account holders have been proven to be fake.� Another hearing has been set for tomorrow. Go, for his part, denied that he was the owner of the account in his name, saying it was Deguito who used his name and forged his signature. A review by RCBC of the CCTV footage in the Jupiter branch on Feb. 1, or the date Go supposedly opened the account, showed no evidence of the businessman’s presence in the bank at the time. Go said he came to know Deguito when she was still the branch manager of East West Bank in Fort Bonifacio where he has an account. He recalled that Deguito’s replacement at the East West Bank branch arranged for a meeting with her. In the meeting, Go claimed being offered P200 million and was told a vague story about Deguito running into some trouble in her current job at RCBC. It was during the meeting that Deguito reportedly admitted involvement in the transfer of money from overseas and the use of his name in her branch. Go said he made clear to Dequito that he wanted no part in the scheme. Tan denied recruiting Dequito to RCBC. Philrem president Salud Bautista, during the meeting, admitted facilitating the transfer of funds from RCBC to Weikang Xu, Solaire and Hawaii Leisure on Deguito’s instruction. She declined to provide details about the transactions, citing provisions of the AMLA. Meanwhile, Valenzuela Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian said he would propose amendments to the AntiMoney Laundering Act (AMLA) to include casinos among covered institutions, saying their inclusion “is long overdue.�
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Dateline PEUhiliPPines ambassadors in Mindanao to
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reaffirm support for peace process by Nestor
Corrales Inquirer.net
Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales Vice President Jejomar Binay (right) and his son Junjun Binay Inquirer.net photo by Tarra Quismundo Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez
Ombudsman Morales on alleged Binay camp’s threat: ‘I am not scared’ by Nestor
Corrales Inquirer.net
“I am not scared,” said Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-morales after she claimed that the camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay has threatened to run after her if he wins the presidency in the upcoming elections in may. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, march 16, morales said she had received a threat from the camp of Binay which was “personally conveyed by a valued ally of the vice president.” “I received threats. The threat was passed through a high official from a close and valued allypolitician of the vice president,” morales said. “They said they are going to run after me if the vice president wins as president. Go ahead, I welcome
that,” she added. morales said the threat was coursed through a government official whom she refused to identify. “The threat was personally conveyed by a valued ally of the vice president. It was given to a government official, all right, verbal. It came to me. It was received by me that this particular official told they will run after me. If he wins,” she said. despite the threats she has been receiving, morales said she would continue to do what is right. “They are scaring me. I’m not scared. I’m not deterred from doing my work,” she said, referring to the damage suit filed by Binay against her. The vice president’s camp has said that morales was part of the demolition team, which aims to
a deleGaTIOn of ambassadors from the european Union (eU) has visited mindanao to renew their commitment to support the peace process and development in the region. “Our visit to Cotabato City highlights the eU and its member states’ continuing support for the mindanao peace process and development in the region,” eU ambassador Franz Jessen said in statement on Tuesday, march 15. “Our hopes remain high that the positive gains achieved in the peace process will be sustained despite some challenges, especially as the parties remained engaged and committed to continue their journey to peace,” he added. aside from Jessen, other members of the eU who visited mindanao on march 14 to 15 were ambassadors marion derckx (netherlands), Thomas Ossowski (Germany), Chargés d’affaires mihai Sion (Romania), nigel Boud (United Kingdom), deputy
derail Binay’s presidential bid. The Office of the Ombudsman has filed charges against the vice president’s son, dismissed makati City mayor Jejomar erwin “Junjun” Binay, over the alleged anomalous construction of the makati City Parking Building II. The Ombudsman has also recommended charges against the vice president after his term ends in June since Binay is immune from any suit. The United nationalist alliance (Una) President Toby Tiangco has earlier accused the Ombudsman of hiring a public relations consultant to leak to the media the Commission on audit (COa) by HeleN Flores special audit report that found Philstar.com anomalies in the construction of the makati City Hall Building II. manIla—Sen. Vicente Sotto “That’s not true,” morales III continued to be the top choice said. in the may 9 senatorial race based on the latest survey conducted by newspaper BusinessWorld and the Social Weather Stations (SWS). Sotto, of the nationalist People’s Coalition, took the solo lead in the BW-SWS march 4-7 poll, garnering 53 percent (from 52 percent). He was followed by former senator Panfilo lacson, an independent, with 46 percent from 49 percent and Senate President Franklin drilon of the liberal Party (lP) with 44 percent from 40 percent. Occupying fourth and fifth places were Sen. Ralph Recto (lP) with 43 percent from 46 percent and former senator and food security presidential assistant Francis Pangilinan (lP) with 43 percent from 42 percent.
The eU said it has adapted its funding programs to the changing needs of the peace process. “last december 2015, the european Union delegation to the Philippines has launched a new program in support of the peace process and is providing P275 million to allow for a smooth transition and to create conditions for the establishment of the autonomous region of the Bangsamoro and the election of its government,” the eU said. eU said the “program contributes to peace building and conflict mitigation, support the implementation of the Comprehensive agreement on Bangsamoro and strengthen local institutions and political processes.” “The grants are being channelled through Conciliation Resources; non-government organizations (nGOs) such as the non Violent Peace Forces, Fondation Suisse de deminage, Konrad adenaeur Stiftung; United nations development Programme and Centre for Humanitarian dialogue,” it said.
ambassadors Fabio Schina (Italy), Xavier leblanc (Belgium), Gabrielle Zobl-Kratschmann (austria), maria del Carmen Barcia-Bustelo (Spain), laurent legodec (France), attachés Riccardo dell’aquila (Italy), diego Sanchez (eU delegation), Program manager edoardo manfredini (eU delegation). Jessen said the eU would continue to support the efforts of the parties that recently met again in Kuala lumpur to discuss the peace process in mindanao. “We are looking forward to supporting the agenda for peace of the next [administration] as we carry on our collaborative efforts with all the concerned stakeholders for peace,” he said. The group met with autonomous Region in muslim mindanao (aRmm) Representatives, moro Islamic liberation Front (mIlF) Chairman al Haj murad and mIlF Central Committee, the mindanao Humanitarian Team, non-government and civil society organizations involved in peace and development initiatives in mindanao and the business community.
Sotto remains top contender in Senate race
Sen. Vicente Sotto III
Former senator Juan miguel six points while de lima’s rating Zubiri (independent) was in sixth improved by three points. spot with 41 percent from 38 Vying for the last two slots were percent, followed by world box- former akbayan lawmaker Risa ing icon Sarangani Rep. manny Hontiveros with 30 percent (from Pacquiao (United nationalist 27 percent); Sen. Teofisto Guingoalliance) with 38 percent from na III (lP) with 26 percent, former 35 percent and Sen. Sergio Os- Technical education and Skills meña III with 34 percent from development authority head Joel 37 percent. Villanueva (lP) with 24 percent Tied for ninth and 10th places (from 22 percent) and former were Richard Gordon (indepen- metropolitan manila developT:4.9 ‘’ dent) and former justice secretary ment authority chairman Francis leila de lima (lP) with‘’32 percent Tolentino (independent) with 23 S:4.775 each. Gordon’s score went up by percent (from 19 percent).
RECYCLED PLASTIC WASTES. Senator Cynthia A. Villar gives sturdy schools chairs made from recycled plastic wastes to various schools in the country. Aside from helping the government solve the problem on the lack of school chairs, the project also helps in maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Las Pinas Elementary School and Las Pinas School Central are the latest beneficiaries of the plastic chairs. Senate photo
Duterte: I’d rather sleep than debate by robertzoN
ramirez
Philstar.com
TaClOBan CITY—Presidential candidate Rodrigo duterte would rather sleep in davao City than waste his time debating with rivals and hearing ganito kami sa makati (We are like this in makati) or matuwid na daan (straight path) during Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte the second presidential debate on march 20. duterte said there is no sense arguing with other contenders if they would only be bragging about a city or a platform, apparently referring to Vice President Jejomar Binay and liberal Party standard bearer mar Roxas, respectively. The davao mayor and running mate Sen. alan Peter Cayetano on monday, march 14, visited Palo in leyte where they paid msgr. Rex Ramirez and mayor Remedios Petilla—mother of lP senatorial bet Jericho Petilla—a courtesy call. “I might (attend). But if I would just be hearing (those claims), I’d rather sleep. What is there to debate about makati and daang matuwid?” duterte told reporters. He explained that what happened during the first presidential debate in Cagayan de Oro City was more of cornering the candidates on the issues raised against them and not an exercise to allow candidates to express themselves and talk on the platforms they would implement if elected on may 9. The debate was held at the Capitol University in Cagayan de Oro on Feb. 21. When asked if he would attend the debate, duterte joked, “ayaw ko na… naubusan na ako ng barong (no, I’ve run out of barongs).” despite duterte’s second thoughts, his executive assistant Bong Go gave assurance that the mayor would attend the second debate in Cebu City. “He will attend. He is always ready to answer all the questions with his stored knowledge with or without preparations,” Go told The Star. The debate, organized by the Commission on elections, aims to focus on the candidates’ platform on disaster preparedness and climate change adaptation, health care, education and fighting corruption. meanwhile, Cayetano dared his rivals to sign the bank secrecy law
waiver in the interest of transparency, just like what he and duterte did. He said the bank secrecy law should not cover public officials to allow transparency and facilitate a check on all their bank accounts here and abroad. (With Mike Frialde)
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March 17-23, 2016 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOUrNaL
OpiniOn
Job hunting
Features
THE world today is characterized by intense global competition and rapid technological change. According to a human capital theory, economic development is a function of the quality of a nation’s education system. In other words: the more and better educated the people, the better the chances of reaching economic development. The key to success is a well-educated, technically skilled workforce producing high-value-added, knowledge-intensive goods and services. tiveness in the job market -- with little or no adjustment on the part of the learning institutions -makes job hunting in the country worse than ever. According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), out of every 1,000 job applicants, only 10 would likely be hired. The majority of the aspirants will not be able to penetrate the labor market and many will eventfully become part of the unemployed. Those who will fall through the cracks will seek better employment opportunities abroad. It is estimated that more that around 4,000 Filipinos leave the country to work abroad every day. The country has been internationally recognized for its diverse and talented human resources. The skills of Filipino workers continue to impress foreign employers, making more countries favor the quality of Filipino service. It is awe-inspiring that
It is graduation season in the Philippines and up to 700,000 graduates are expected to join the nation’s labor market of 41 million. However, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) warned that these fresh graduates would have difficulty finding immediate employment due to the job-skills mismatch crisis in the country. “Out of the 4,239,392 domestic and international job vacancies offered in 3,686 year-round job fairs activities held in 2014 and 2015 nationwide, only 391,088 were hired on the spot out of the 1,286,073 applicants,” TUCP spokesman Alan Tanjusay said. He added that the job-skills mismatch crisis in the country has been going on -- and it continues to grow. Competition is escalating, so employers are putting additional qualifications in the job descriptions. Tanjusay also said that heightened competi-
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
Filipino workers are in demand and valued by other countries. However, it is also alarming that their own country cannot grant them the same opportunity. Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are glorified as modern heroes, but back home, the reasons why they left remain harsh realities.
With the impressive showing of the current economy, the protection and promotion of economic rights of all Filipino workers should be given appropriate actions. The government must continue to generate decent employment opportunities that will entice OFWs to come back or local employees to stay. (AJPress)
Is Donald Trump fostering divisiveness and violence in his presidential campaign? A WEEK before Super Tuesday 3 -- when five states were slated to The Fil-Am vote for the candidate whom they believe should be their party’s Perspective nominee for the next president of the United States -- Donald Trump has been criticized from the left, the right, and everyone else in between. The latest round Gel SantoS-ReloS of criticism comes after violent encounters had erupted during his campaign rallies between his supporters and those who are opposed to catapulting him to the highest post of the land. While candidates may not have direct control over how their supporters may act during campaign rallies, Trump’s detractors contend that the problem here was that it has been the billionaire reality show/real estate mogul’s rhetoric and attitude against those who oppose him. Even worse, they argue, his toxic regard and public statements against undocumented immigrants, Hispanics, Muslims have gone overboard, and have planted seeds of hatred and divisiveness among his supporters. His critics allege that Trump does not really promise to “Make America great again” if he becomes president, as his popular slogan goes.
What he is allegedly instilling in his avid fans is that “he will make America white again.” The Daily News even wrote that “the 2016 Republican frontrunner’s decision to push divisive rhetoric and policy has opened the door for an array of white supremacy groups, that suddenly feel emboldened and legitimized by Trump’s hateful bombast, to rejoin the national conversation.” Trump says he never condones violence, but his detractors say his hate speech and bold combative statements negate his statements, and do in fact, encourage violence among his supporters. Some of Trump’s statements were quoted by Vox: [1 February 2016, Iowa] “If you see somebody getting ready to throw a tomato, knock the crap out of them, would you? Seriously. Okay? Just knock the hell. I promise you I will pay for the legal fees. I promise.” [26 February 2016, Oklahoma] “In the good old days, they’d rip him out of that seat so fast. But today, everybody’s politically correct. Our country’s going to hell with being politically correct.” [29 February 2016, Virginia] “Get him out of
here please. Get him out. Get him out ... Are you from Mexico? Are you from Mexico? Huh? Are you from Mexico?” [4 March 2016, Michigan] “Get out of here. Get out. Out! ... This is amazing. So much fun. I love it. I love it. We having a good time? USA, USA, USA! ... All right, get him out. Try not to hurt him. If you do, I’ll defend you in court. Don’t worry about it ... We had four guys, they jumped on him, they were swinging and swinging. The next day, we got killed in the press — that we were too rough. Give me a break. You know? Right? We don’t want to be too politically correct anymore. Right, folks?” However, Trump’s supporters Donald Trump remain unfazed and continue to defend him by saying that that’s what they like about him: he is not a traditional politician. He is bold, unafraid and does not bother to be “politically correct,” and that he is the kind of leader that America “needs to get things done.” After Trump’s big wins on Super Tuesday 3, we will see if his momentum will continue and
make him clinch the nomination of the Republican Party. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos
Did Grace Poe illegally use a dead person’s social security number in the US? WHY all the hassle over the two social se- Street curity numbers (SSN) allegedly used by Sen. Talk Grace Poe when she was living in the US? In the Philippines, there must be a lot of people who are paying GReG B. MacaBenta monthly social security premiums but can’t remember their SS numbers. This, aside from the fact that millions in our country don’t have social security coverage at all. But in the US, the SSN is a priceless code that you cannot afford to be without and you must know by heart. It serves as your virtual password to making major purchases such as a house or a car, dealing with financial institutions, securing government permits and licenses, and gaining access to restricted information, as well as being employed, being paid wages and receiving social security benefits. But you have to be in the US legally, either as a citizen or as a permanent resident (or green card holder). You may also be entitled to your own SSN if you are in the US legally but not allowed to work, such as a foreign student on an F-1, M-1 or J-1 visa. The SS card would bear the legend “Not valid for employment.” As a temporary visitor with a working visa, you could also secure your own SSN but it would bear the notation, “Valid for work with INS authorization.” Needless to say, a person with a questionable immigration status or a TNT (meaning Tago ng Tago – literally, “always hiding”) cannot legally have a social security number. The SSN is such a sensitive number
that you may refuse to divulge it to a private business entity or you may be asked for only “the last four digits” of the number. And in making a major purchase that requires revealing the SSN, you do it much like keying in a bank PIN – without anybody looking. Note that a person in the US may have his own SSN from birth. And everyone literally carries it to the grave - never to be used again. Thus, when that number appears in official records as having been used by someone other than the original bearer, that is a red flag. Using an illegal SSN carries a major risk because any enterprising individual, particularly a lawyer, journalist or private investigator, can do an online search and find out the identity of a person who has used a certain SSN. This appears to have been the case with Poe. Someone keenly interested in her personal background – presumably because of her candidacy for president – dug up not one but two SSNs attributed to her. One SSN appears to have been assigned to her in 1992 after she got married to a US citizen. The other one SSN 005-03-1998, according to online records, was released in Maine in the 1930s to a person who is either dead or is now well past his mid-90s (some online records refer to the person as deceased). Philippine Daily Tribune publishereditor, Ninez Cacho-Olivares, accepting a reported challenge of Poe for the journalist to come up with “proof”
concerning the illegal use of SSN 00503-1998 (as published in her paper’s March 7 issue), apparently did due diligence and came up with incriminating results: “The Tribune found evidence that independent presidential candidate Sen. Grace Poe and her husband Teodoro Llamanzares purchased a property in the State of Virginia in 2006 with the use of Poe’s spurious US Social Security Number (SSN).” Cacho-Olivares also wrote about other instances when the questionable SSN was used by a certain Llamanzares, Grace P: “More evidence of SSN-005-031988’s use -The records showed that it was first reported use for 2914 Post Office Box in Fairfax county in Merrifield, Virginia 22116-2914 on February 2, 1999; then at 129 Kingsley Rd SW, Vienna, Virginia in Fairfax county on June 1, 1999 and at 12021 Sunset Hills Rd Reston, Virginia on September 1, 1999. “It was last used at 42931 Shelbourne SQ, Chantilly, Virginia in Loudon county on May 1, 2006. “Grace Poe Llamanzares and her husband, Teodoro are listed as the owner of a home located at 42931 Shebourne Square. Chantilly, Virginia, with a listed amount of $420,000, with named residents Grace Poe Llamanzare (without an s), Mary Poe, Grace Poe, Teodoro Llamanzares and M. Llamanzares. The SSN used was SSN-005-03-1988, the dead person’s SSN.” When news of the spurious SSN first hit the newspapers, Poe’s spokesman dismissed it as a lie. He pointed out that the number happened to coincide
with the date that Poe enrolled at Boston College and that it was assigned to her as her college ID number. In fact, the Department of Homeland Security states the following: “Are you temporarily in the United States to attend a college, language, vocational, or nonacademic school with a non-immigrant F-1, M-1, or J1 student classification? Your school may ask you for your Social Security number. Some colleges and schools use Social Security numbers as student identification numbers. If you don’t have a Social Security number, the college or school should be able to give you another identification number.” Assuming that Poe enrolled at Boston College on a student visa, it is possible that the school asked her for her SSN and, having none, decided to assign her an ID number corresponding to her date of enrollment. But there are some problems with such an explanation. Firstly, would that mean that others who enrolled on that same date were also given the same ID number? Secondly – and this is the one most difficult to understand – why was that supposed ID number in her married name? Shouldn’t it have been in her maiden name, since she had not yet gotten married in 1998? Thirdly, why was SSN 005-03-1998 used several times by a person going by the name of Llamanzares, Grace P well after Poe had graduated from Boston College (in 1991)? It is common knowledge in America that many temporary visitors who decide to overstay find ways to secure a social security number. In flea markets in California, hawkers openly sell it (of course, keeping an eagle eye peeled
for immigration agents). Some of these numbers are, quite likely, those of deceased individuals. Others may be the fruits of identity theft. And still others may be random numbers dreamed up by vendors that coincide with genuine SSNs. Unless Poe can give a credible explanation for the uncanny coincidence of two SSNs being used by a person of the same name, then there certainly is something fishy, and it’s not in Navotas or Malabon. Of course, to many of Poe’s undying supporters, this may be a “so what?” issue. Aside from the fact that we Pinoys tend to be loyal to our idols, whether right or wrong, there must be thousands in our country who have relatives in America using illegal SSNs. So what’s the big deal? Could that be the reason why the major newspapers like Philippine Daily Inquirer and Philippine Star, have not bothered to write about this matter (except for one single PDI story about the insistence of Poe’s spokesman that the Tribune report was untrue). Perhaps they think that a possible case of identity theft by someone aspiring to become president of the Philippine is not important enough. But to US authorities, it is a big deal. Using another person’s SSN is a felony and subject to a stiff fine and imprisonment. This problem could hound Poe for many years, whether or not she is allowed to run for president or whether or not she wins the presidency. Note that in the US, an unpaid parking ticket can hound a recalcitrant all the way to the grave. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)
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.
aDVErTISING aND aDVErTOrIaL POLIcIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board
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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mARch 17-23, 2016
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Arroyo granted birthday furlough by Rosette
adel
Philstar.com
MANILA—The Supreme Court on Tuesday, March 15 approved detained former president and current Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s request to celebrate her 69th birthday with her family. Arroyo,whose birthday is on April 5, asked the court for a furlough from April 3 to 5 so that she can celebrate her birthday at home, citing that spending her birthday with family and friends will do her good. The high tribunal granted her three-day furlough from 8 a.m. of April 4 to 5 p.m. of April 6. “Petitioner Arroyo appeals anew
“It is the opinion of her doctors that her continued confinement is injurious to her health. A five-day furlough to celebrate her birthday and be with family and friends will do the former president some good,” it said. Arroyo, currently on hospital arrest at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City, was also granted a Christmas and New Year furlough from Dec. 23 to 26, 2015 and from Dec. 30 to Jan. 2, 2016. Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo She is facing charges of plunder to the humanity of the Honorable after being involved in the alleged Supreme Court and respectfully misuse of P366 million worth of asks that she be granted a similar funds from state lottery firm Philfurlough for her birthday on April ippine Charity Sweepstakes Office during her presidential term. 5, 2016,” the petition read.
SC junks Janet Napoles, Gigi Reyes pleas to stop trial by edu
PuNay Philstar.com
MANILA—The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday, March 15 junked the bid of accused pork barrel scam operator Janet Lim-Napoles to stop her plunder trial before the Sandiganbayan. In full-court session, the justices of the high court unanimously voted to also dismiss a similar plea of lawyer Jessica Lucila “Gigi” Reyes, former chief-of-staff of Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile who is also facing plunder trial in the anti-graft court. Both Napoles and Reyes asked the SC in their separate petitions in 2014 to nullify the resolutions of the Sandiganbayan and the Office of the Ombudsman approving their indictment for plunder over the multibillion-peso Priority Development Assistance Fund scam. The SC dismissed their petitions for lack of merit. “Accordingly, the assailed resolutions and orders of the Office of the Ombudsman and the Sandiganbayan are hereby affirmed,” read the dispositive portion of the ruling read by SC spokesman Theodore Te in a press conference. “In so acting, the Court found that neither the ombudsman nor the Sandiganbayan committed grave abuse of discretion in finding probable cause to charge petitioners and to order their arrest,” Te explained. The ruling means the plunder trial of Napoles and Reyes should proceed. Apart from the petitions of the two principal accused in the pork barrel plunder cases, the high tribunal also dismissed the petitions
VANDALIZED. The EDSA People Power Monument on White Plains, Quezon City, has been defaced with a message showing support for the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Malacañang says the graffiti incites “justified anger” among Filipinos. Photo by Celso Santiago/EDSA People Power Commission Janet Lim-Napoles and Jessica Lucila “Gigi” Reyes
of Napoles’ children, Jo Christine and James Christopher, questioning the arrest warrants issued against them over the separate graft charges filed against them by the ombudsman before the Sandiganbayan. The petitioners all claimed violation of their right to due process in questioning their indictment over the PDAF scam. Napoles is currently serving jail time at the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong City after she was convicted by a Makati City court of serious illegal detention. She was found guilty of illegally detaining PDAF scam whistleblower Benhur Luy. Reyes, on the other hand, is detained at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. The Office of the Ombudsman, on the other hand, has filed graft charges against former Bukidnon representative Cadido Pancrudo Jr. before the Sandiganbayan for his alleged involvement in the pork barrel fund scam. Also indicted were former Na-
tional Agribusiness Corp. (Nabcor) president Alan Javellana, director for administrative and finance Rhodora Mendoza, accounting division officer-in-charge Maria Ninez Guañizo, paralegal Victor Roman Cacal and Uswag Pilipinas Foundation Inc. (UPFI) president Mark Espinosa. The indictment stems from the unlawful disbursement of Pancrudo’s PDAF allocations amounting to P8.2 million in 2008. Investigation by the ombudsman showed P7,954,000 was channeled by Nabcor to UPFI for the implementation of livelihood training programs. Graft probers said Pancrudo directly chose the non-government organization without the benefit of a public bidding and without basis in law or ordinance. The ombudsman said the government suffered undue injury when respondents conspired with one another and diverted the amount to fictitious or ghost projects. (With Michael Punongbayan)
Almendras: I can’t say no to Aquino by Niña P. Calleja Inquirer.net
SAYING he will be the shortest serving foreign secretary, Jose Rene Almendras asked the officers and the rank and file at the Department of Foreign Affairs to bear with him in his next 108 days in office. Speaking during the flag-raising at the DFA building, Almendras admitted he had big shoes to fill with the retirement of Albert del Rosario. “I have never claimed expertise or brilliance… but I do know there are a lot of good people at the DFA,” he said. Almendras served as energy secretary and secretary to the Cabinet prior to his appointment as acting secretary of foreign affairs. He said he was casually asked by President Aquino over lunch to consider the post of foreign secretary. The President gave him one day to make a decision.
He said he told the President: “I never really had the privilege to say no to you and I know how important the portfolio is. And I understand the challenges that we are facing.” Almendras made mention of the Inquirer commentary of Amando Doronila on Monday questioning his appointment. “There’s an article in the Inquirer saying how inexperienced and how undeserving I am to this office. I fully agree with it,” Almendras said. To the DFA officers and employees, he said: “Please be patient with me when I break protocol. I’d rather be informal, be very casual.” Almendras’ appointment comes at a crucial time as the Philippines awaits the ruling of a UN arbitral tribunal in The Hague, the Netherlands, on the country’s challenge to China’s nine-dash line claims. The decision is expected in
Jose Rene Almendras
April or May, according to an earlier DFA statement. Del Rosario announced his resignation citing health reasons last month. Almendras said that before Del Rosario stepped down, plans of action were laid out. “We will just follow those plans,” he said.
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March 17-23, 2016 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOUrNaL
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Happily ever after:
things to know before tying the knot by AJPress
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All photos by Marc & Phoebe Aviles of This Is It Photography
ove may be universal, but weddings are as diverse as each couple getting married. Like the intricate Mehendi ceremony in India where the bride’s feet and hands are decorated with elaborate patterns and the breaking of glass underfoot to end a Jewish wedding, Filipinos have their share of fascinating, if not eccentric, wedding customs. The Asian Journal briefs you on what to expect from a Filipino wedding and how amusingly more fun it can be. KASALANG PINOY Marriage, according to Modern Oxford dictionary, is “a union of a man and a woman, typically recognized by law, by which they become husband and wife.” Intuitively, matrimony poses a rather subjective sense of the matter—often in strict or outlandish fashion—but it generally induce a concordant purpose which is to formally marry two individuals. Regardless of the how it is done nor the words spoken, the underlying intention remains to be that
of shared affection. Much like love, marriage—or at least the ceremony akin to it—in the Philippines goes back to pre-colonization years. Before the introduction of Christianity in the country, the people have been celebrating this union in a rich, cultural fête reflective of their local credence. According to history, prior to the Spanish colonization in the early 15th century, a wedding in the Philippines usually lasted for three days. Both the
bride and groom are brought to the babaylan’s (a tribal priest/ priestess) home on the first day, during which the babaylan performs the first blessing: the couple’s hands are joined together over a container of bigas (uncooked rice). Marking the denouement is the act of blood compact—not for the squeamish—where the babaylan pricks both the couple’s chest to draw a small amount of blood
that will be mixed with water. The couple announces their love three times before drinking the water with their blood and eating the rice taken from the same container on which their hands were adjoined on the first day. It was only in the 18th century when Filipinos, majority of them, started to embrace the Catholic faith and exercise most of the PAGE B2
Wedding etiquette 101 The rules of planning a modern wedding are constantly changing. While it is up to the couple to set the tone – whether adhering to or breaking old-fashioned rules – here are a few tips to consider: • Don’t put gift registry information on the invitation – Tradition says that the practice of including gift registry information on the invitation is considered inappropriate and in poor taste. Instead, share the information on your wedding website or through word of mouth. • Scrap the cash bar – Guests shouldn’t be obliged to shell out money during the wedding reception, Bridal Guide says. If offering more expensive alcohol options falls out of the budget, the couple can instead provide basic options like beer and wine. • Take the time to greet each guest – Since friends and relatives have traveled and blocked off their day to celebrate the wedding, it’s imperative for the newlyweds to greet each guest individually. • Send out handwritten thank you notes – Generally thank you notes should be sent out no longer than three months after the gift was received. For guests, there are some rules to consider as well: • Don’t wear white – One of the long-standing wedding taboos has been that guests should not wear white or ivory. Though brides these days don’t always wear a traditional white dress, the rule that guests should not appear to wear something that would upstage or take attention away from the bride still stands. Guests, however, can wear an ensemble with some white in it, as long as it’s not all white. • Bring a plus one only if indicated in invitation – If it doesn’t say “plus one” on your invitation that means you were invited alone. however, if the couple has allowed you to bring a guest, kindly include his/her name on the RSVP so they can include the name on the seating card. It’s also important to make sure that the plus one can come. Generally a plus one means a date; though some wedding experts say you can ask if you can bring a close friend instead, if you feel comfortable having that conversation with the couple. (AJPress)
Picture Perfect: How to cHoose a wedding PHotograPHer IT’S one of the most important days in your life and of course, it is a must to remember your wedding day through photos. The thing is, not every person is photogenic and most likely, she/he will be busy and nervous about other things. This is why having a good wedding photographer comes in as he or she will know your good angles to create the perfect memories. Marc and Phoebe Aviles of This Is It Photography have been in the photography business since 2007, and have received numerous awards in engagement/Wedding categories notably the Accolade of excellence for Commercial/ Wedding/Portrait/Glamour in 2009 and 2010 from the Wedding Portrait & Photographers International (WPPI). (This Is It at 980 el Camino Real, Suite 380, Santa Clara, CA 95050 / (408) 888-2561 / www.thisisitphotography.com.)
The husband and couple team shared some tips on how to choose the right photographer for your pre-nup/engagement and wedding day: 1. Talk to your photographer candidate. Tell all your concerns, like what you’re looking for, and get answers. 2. Review the photographer’s works. You must like their style. If you are paying top dollar, don’t choose a photographer who doesn’t have any experience in weddings. Wedding photography is a different skill set than other photographies — it’s a mixture of (a) photojournalism where you have to be fast, quick, to capture the story of what’s happening, anticipating reactions, etc; (b) landscape photography to capture the bride and groom in a landscape scenery; (c) portrait photography to ensure you’re captured in your flattering features and
body language or pose; and (d) product photography to capture macro shots of rings, wedding details like dresses, shoes, veil, centerpieces etc. 3. Review the photographer’s contract and ensure all your requests and whatever you paid for are in the contract. 4. Work with someone you are comfortable with. For prenuptial / engage-
ment shoots: 1. Maximize your pre-nup day. Schedule your trial makeup on the same day, after your trial make-up you can go to engagement shoot PAGE B3
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Side notes
Put a ring on it. Where? Vena Amoris Latin for Vein of Love If you’re an Austen fan—or a reader of any English classic novels—you probably wear your engagement ring on the fourth finger of your left hand, or would prefer to wear it there if you’re not engaged...yet. Many have argued about its authenticity and scientific relevance, but it is believed that this Vena Amoris is the vein on the third finger of your left hand that runs directly to your heart.
Old wives’ tale—or is it?
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Happily ever after... PAGE B1 customary practices concordant of the norms and ideologies of the time. The common “white wedding” was the traditional praxis in the subject of matrimony where the bride would wear white and the rest of the entourage would dress up in a formal garb reflective of the couple’s preference or stature. And although the conventional “white wedding,” popularized by Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom in her wedding to Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg of Gotha on the 10th of February 1840, implies the use of a white wedding gown with European textile and a lace veil—in this case, Honiton lace—the Filipinos have adapted to this custom and made it uniquely their own by using indigenous materials like piña (fiber produced from pineapple leaves) to make the veils, barong (groom’s clothing), etc., all equally representing their rich culture and skilled craftsmanship. Despite foreign influences, weddings in the Philippines can be distinctly Pinoy; and no matter where in the world it is held, it’s not that difficult to tell because you will know you’re in a Filipino wedding when: There are more than ten people in your entourage especially when all these people are present: Principal Sponsors Commonly known as Ninongs or Ninangs, these people serve as
witnesses to the marriage and act as symbols of wisdom and support for the bride and groom. These are often friends or relatives (aunts or uncles) whom the couple respect and admire. The principal sponsors are the official witnesses of the state whose signatures are necessary in the marriage contract part from those of the bride and groom’s. Secondary Sponsors They play an important role in the wedding ceremony. These people are often close friends or relatives of the bride and groom and function as the following: Coin Sponsors Originated in Spain and Rome, arras (Spanish term for earnest money) or arrhae, refer to the wedding coins given by the coin sponsors to the bride and groom. Traditionally, these thirteen (13) coins symbolize prosperity and the groom’s ability to provide for his new family. Modern interpretation would express that while these represent the twelve (12) apostles and Christ, these coins are also signs of the couple’s commitment to mutually contribute to the relationship, their children, and the community. Veil Sponsors Regarded as the “cloud” denoting the presence of the Lord over the matrimony, the veil represents purity and oneness. This sheer piece of fabric signifies the couple’s commitment to protect each other and the groom’s strength and responsibility to safeguard his
Illustrations by Kenno Samulde
Sukob: Double weddings bring bad luck. Final touches: The bride is not allowed to fit the final wedding dress before the wedding. Sneak peak: The groom must never see the bride on her wedding gown before the wedding as this will bring bad luck.
Believe it Old custom suggests that giving arinola (chamberpot) as a wedding gift would bring good luck—both to the newlyweds and the giver. (Mary May Portez)
Illustrations by Kenno Samulde and Luigi Cruz
soon-to-be wife. Veil sponsors are usually close friends of the bride and groom. Chord Sponsors The yugal or chord draped over the shoulders of the couple getting married is usually made from silk but other wedding cords could also be a string of flowers, link of coins, or a chain designed to look like a double rosary. Customarily, the chord is looped to form a figure eight (8) to symbolize infinity and everlasting fidelity. Candle Sponsors Although some couples choose to have their parents light the wedding candles, candle sponsors are usually the married friends of the bride and groom. This lighting of candles plays homage to the similar practice done in christening and as a way to signify the light of Christ and His presence and guidance to the couple’s married life together. The couple can decide, later on, if they will opt to have a unity candle which they will light using the two wedding candles to signify the joining of their families. Matron of Honor (If married) | Maid of Honor | Bridesmaids The matron of honor or the maid of honor is expected to help the bride with the wedding preparations and is ideally expected to organize the bachelorette party. She could also serve as one of the witnesses of the ceremony. Often the sister of the bride or the closest friend, she is the official attendant of the bride. Her role entails helping with other wedding-related tasks like bridal shower, coordinating with suppliers, deciding on invitations and motifs, coordinating with the suppliers, and many other miscellaneous to-do’s. During the actual wedding ceremony, the maid of honor acts as the bride’s right hand who will be communicating with the wedding planners on behalf of the bride. Best Man | Groomsmen He is the counterpart of both
matron of honor and the maid of honor. He could be the brother or the best friend of the groom. The best man has the vital responsibility of safeguarding the wedding rings before the ceremony. He can also act as legal witness to the marriage. Flower Girls Perhaps one of the wedding highlights, the flowers girls are often relatives of the bride and groom that serve as “little assistants” of the bride. According to history, the reference of “flower girls” dates back to ancient Rome during which marriages are celebrated by a parade of offerings. The flower girls (young virgins) at that time would carry sheaves of wheat and herbs as a symbol for prosperity and fertility. During the Medieval Era, wheat was replaced with garlic to ward off evil spirits. It was only in the early 18th century, Victorian Era, when the concept of flower girls carrying actual blooms was observed. These “flower girls” would carry baskets filled with herbs and fresh blossoms. Ring Bearer This little page boy has the responsibility of carrying the wedding rings during the ceremony: a custom that is believed to have originated from the ancient Romans and Egyptians during a time when pillows and cushions were considered luxury. As a common practice of the affluent, the ring bearers would showcase these pillows carrying wedding offerings like pieces of gold, silver, or jewelry. Coin Bearer Usually a young boy presenting the wedding coins or arrhae to the groom. This practice, which is believed to have been an influence of the Spaniards, symbolizes the groom’s pledge and commitment to provide for his wife. Bible Bearer Could be a relative or a friend PAGE B3
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Young Filipino-Hawaiian filmmaker Happily ever after... finds her voice telling ‘sakada’ stories PAGE B2
of the bride and groom, although modern day weddings often have bible bearers as young boys not older than ten years of age. The bible bearer’s main responsibility is to present the bible aloft while marching with the entourage during the ceremony. The monetary dance becomes a showcase of aesthetic and wealth Observed in several parts of the world particularly in Poland, Ukraine, and Yugoslavia—to name a few—is a distinct Spanish influence. Although the actual practice may differ from country to culture, the monetary dance serves as a creative, if not entertaining, way to offer monetary gifts to the newlyweds. In the Philippines where creativity often is at par with one’s individuality, monetary dances are reflective of a family’s stature. One (or more) of the relatives is part of the entertainment In a Filipino wedding, there’s bound to be a talented relative. A Maribel Apuya: “We have to write our own violinist, pianist, drummer, or an stories.” angelic singer—heck, even a selfing in 1990 when their Novaliches confessed artist—there’s always home was broken into. “That pro- that prodigy in the family (both pelled my parents to go,” Apuya sides) and a wedding is the best recalls. “I didn’t want to—I was stage to showcase such talent. Nothing goes to waste 12, and I had all these friends in You may never admit it, but school already.” The family spent a year in California, where she recalls being “very shy—I felt like I wasn’t good enough. When we moved to Hawaii, I made a conscious PAGE B1 decision to stick with the local 2. Come prepared. Make sure kids, because I wanted to be more your hair and make-up are done, socially accepted.” and you have clean nails and have Pro-Filipino shaved. Having been exposed to life 3. Prepare wardrobe and acin both the Philippines and the cessories. Do different looks or United States has shaped her styles per location, and the B&G perspective, Apuya says. “If I had ‘s wardrobe must not be too clashbeen born here, maybe I would not ing, but instead complement each have been so pro-Filipino.” other. She went on to the University 4. Personalize your pre-nup. of Hawaii in Manoa, where, as a Some examples include going to computer science and political the place where you first met, or if science student—she originally both love sports, go to a track and planned to follow in her father’s field or baseball court. footsteps—she was a Presidential 5. Scout locations. Check out and a National Science Foundation places where you like to do the scholar. shoot and discuss it with your She was, however, also men- photographer. tored by professors at the Center 6. Be open, comfortable and for Philippine Studies, like Dr. sweet. Enjoy the moment with Teresita Ramos and Dr. Ruth your fiancé while being photoMabanglo. “Being around them graphed. Your affections will show shot up my passion for being in the pictures. Filipino, in a truthful way. Art was 7. Prepare wardrobe on how my elective, and it called to me. you want to be photographed. If Let’s just say I had my midlife you want something extravagant, PAGE B4 style like you mean it. If you
It’s been quite a journey from beauty pageants to short films, but Maribel Apuya has found her own way to celebrate her unique culture by AlyA
B. HonAsAn Inquirer.net
THE SAKADA of Hawaii, pioneering migrants who came to the island from their home provinces in the Philippines to work in the sugar and pineapple fields, have always been pictured as longsuffering. They certainly endured much in helping build what was to be their adopted home, Hawaii. Succeeding batches of workers did manage to reap the fruits of their labors, however. In “A Sakada Story,” a short film by young Filipino-Hawaiian filmmaker Maribel Apuya, the subject, Cipriano Erice, originally from Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, is now retired, drives a sedan and hangs out at McDonald’s with his buddies. It was still quite the journey for the old man. In an emotional moment in the film, Erice recounts how he was finally promoted to journeyman, big boss among the workers—and he is on the verge of tears, albeit triumphant ones. Enough of the Filipino migrant as victim, Apuya declares. “In doing this film, my mission is to showcase the culture in a positive, empowered light. Many have studied and documented the sakada, but my point of view is what they have given us.”
The film debuted at the Philippine Consulate in New York last August 2015 as part of the consulate’s “Sinehan sa Summer” activity, and was later screened at the Ohina Short Film Festival at the Honolulu Museum of Arts and at the Hawaii International Film Festival, Hawaii’s premiere film festival. It is the 36-year-old Apuya’s first film. Next two films Based on the positive response to “A Sakada Story,” it won’t be her last. With recently approved funding from the Atherton Family Foundation and the Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts in Honolulu, Apuya will be working on her next two short films: “Bayanihan,” which will feature another sakada, Angel Ramos, and “Sakada Dreams,” which will feature Apolonia Stice, a female sakada born and raised in the Spreckelsville camp in Maui, Hawaii—probably the first time a female sakada’s story will be documented on film. Apuya hopes to get the work done by June. It’s been quite the journey for Apuya, who was born in Quezon City, one of three children; her father is a lawyer and her mother, a medical technologist. The family had just been considering migrat-
Apuya shooting her subject, Cipriano Erice, in Oahu
Illustration by Kendrick Tan
you did think of taking some of those desserts to go. Filipinos are known to be resourceful and—excuse the word—frugal. They simply cannot fathom throwing away good food and expensive flower displays. There’s lechon Having lechon on any occasion is unmistakably Pinoy. A Filipino wedding without lechon is not a celebration. Period. No mater how distinct weddings are around the world they serve as paragon of love and hope.
Questions of “will you marry me” have been asked many times in different languages by men (or women) of varying stature from all over the globe with an optimistic statistic that many have said YES. A downright gamble waging your ego, reputation, emotional investments, hopes, and entire being for an answer that determines your future. Because above all else, it remains to be the most basic, if not consequential, love. And we all deserve it. (Mary May Portez)
Picture perfect: How to choose a... just want simple tees and jeans because that’s your personality, then it’s okay too. If you want to look good in pictures, make every effort to look good in your wardrobe. On the day itself: 1. Do your homework. Plan months or a year before your wedding, but on the day of, let go of control because you already did your homework and it’s now time to relax and enjoy your day. DON’T stress out on any small or big details because your stress will show in your facial expression body language, and it will be captured in the photos. 2. Enjoy your wedding day. Enjoy your bride/groom, enjoy the company of your parents, siblings, families, and friends. A photojournalistic style of wedding photography will capture your candid and emotional moments. Feel your wedding day. It’s okay to cry and show your tears of happiness — that means you are human and enjoying
important moments of your wedding, and those real moments make good pictures. 3. Give your photographer a copy of your timeline at least two weeks before the date and ask your his/her opinion about it to ensure you have enough time for photos. 4. If you got a well-experienced photographer, then you are in good hands. You don’t have to worry about your angles and poses because a skillful photographer will bring out the best in you. 5. Prepare a list of group pictures beforehand and assign somebody to call out the groups, so that you won’t have to call your people. Remember your photographer won’t know who your friends or relatives are, so they can’t chase anyone. Inform your friends and relatives that you want them to be in the formal group pictures so that they won’t be missed in the photos, and this will make most use of your schedule. (Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe)
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B march 17-23, 2016 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOUrNaL
Features
Owen Wilson played tennis, visited BGC, and left quietly by Marge
C. enriquez
Inquirer.net
IT’S NOT true, sources told Inquirer Lifestyle, that Hollywood actor Owen Wilson is dating Filipino businesswoman Wendy Puyat. The rumor circulated when Wilson was spotted arriving at NAIA last weekend. Inquirer Lifestyle found out that the Academy-nominated co-writer and star of “The Royal Tenenbaums” was actually flying to Hong Kong but took a side trip to the Philippines on the invitation of two Filipino businessmen whom he met through mutual friends. It’s not true either that Wilson went to the casinos. What he did was spend time at the Manila Polo Club (MPC) and a few clubs in Bonifacio Global City (BGC). The same Inquirer sources said Wilson wasn’t expecting much but was pleasantly surprised at what Manila could offer. He enjoyed the facilities at
MPC and played a mean game of tennis. Wilson effortlessly bounced off the balls of his opponent, a former national player. He also had a good time in Las Flores Restaurant, Revel, and Bank Bar in BGC. Although he didn’t eat anything in Las Flores, he was said to have been very impressed with its ambiance. Although he fended off requests for photos with fans last Friday and Saturday, he finally relented on Sunday—after visual artist and businesswoman Marivic Rufino bumped into him at MPC’s 51st Annual Horse Show and Equestrian Exhibit. Wilson and two other Americans were standing near the MPC terrace entrance when Rufino asked him if she could take his photograph. Wilson said yes and even invited Rufino to join him in the photo op while his American companion clicked her smartphone. After Rufino wished him well
With Llana Samson at the Manila Polo Club tennis court
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Is Paul Soriano ready to be a dad? by
JoyCe JiMenez Philstar.com
MANILA—Paul Soriano said he’s ready to be a father if he and wife Toni Gonzaga will be blessed with a child. “I was prepared even before we got married,” he said in an interview. “I was ready then and I’m ready now. Whenever God wills it, we will embrace it.” “With life you just have to listen to God and sometimes you’re just not in control,” he added. “Just like when we told you about our engagement and wedding, there’s a right time and place for it.” It was in February when reports about Toni’s pregnancy came out. However, the couple remained mum about the issue, saying there’s a “right time” to answer the issue. Soriano is busy promoting the
on his stay, Wilson thanked her; they shook hands and then he walked to the Cogon Village restaurant. Wilson left quietly Sunday evening. Yet even if he and Puyat are not an item (she’s in Hong Kong), PAGE B3 another rumor is that he’s dating crisis early!” the daughter of one of his AmeriApuya went on to study acting can companions at MPC. at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City. She also traveled, worked as a yoga teacher and even had a stint in financial services. In an interesting sidelight, she studied modelling at 18 and was actually crowned Miss Hawaii Filipina in 2001, an experience she no longer trivializes. “And to think, I used to omit that from my film bio,” she says with a laugh. Although Apuya’s mother was against it, she still joined the pageant. “I think it’s pretty pivotal to development, when you’re put in a situation where you just have to Wearing his signature cap, T-shirt and city shorts, Owen Wilson obliges learn, and you don’t know what for a photo op with Oudine Santos. Artist Marivic Rufino with Wilson at the MPC horse show you’re capable of until you’re in it. I became even more passionate about Filipino culture—it was organic, fun and warm. And the parties were fun!” She eventually chose film, “beSINGER Regine Velasquez has revealed that she suffered a miscarcause I get to choose what work riage before she and husband Ogie Alcasid were married in 2010. gets to be there,” Apuya says. “As In a PEP.ph report, Velasquez said in an upcoming “Tonight With an actress you’re at the mercy of Arnold Clavio” episode that: “During nu’ng time na ‘yun, galit na galit directors, who are mainly white— ako kay God, kasi nga I lost a baby (During that time, I was very angry which is fine, although Hollywood with God because I lost a baby).” has a lot of catching up to do, even She, however, said that she slowly turned to God after her miscarwith the women. riage. The singer also said that she suffered from depression in a while Write our own stories due to the incident. “In film I get to say, this is the “Konti-konti, pumupunta na ako sa (Gradually, I would attend) Vicrole, this is the movie. I know the tory [Christian Fellowship]… slowly, slowly,” she said. acting perspective, I understand “My husband didn’t want to force me, so slowly, nag-build ‘ulit yung marketing; I’m in a position now (I built my) relationship ko with Christ,” the singer said. where I can write not only art but The “Asia’s Songbird” and Alcasid now have a four-year-old son also something that will speak to Nathaniel Joseph who was born a year after they were married. a large audience. As Asian AmeriAlcasid also has two daughters with former wife Michelle Van cans, we have to write our own Eimeren. (Inquirer.net) Regine Velasquez
Young Filipino-Hawaiian filmmaker finds her...
Regine Velasquez opens up about suffering miscarriage
EMPLOYMENT
film”Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis,” where he’s one of the producers. He admitted that producing the eight-hour film was “risky,” but he thought that “it was just a beautiful screenplay.” “Very challenging, but every film naman is very challenging,” he added. Soriano is also not worried that their showing date is the same with the foreign film “Batman v Superman.” “Well, how I look at it, let’s see how much Filipinos loves their own,” he said. “Hopefully, on the Paul Soriano said that if God blesses him and Toni 26th that they will prioritize the Gonzaga with a child he’ll be ready to be a father. Photo from Toni Gonzaga’s Instagram account local culture.” He also noted that “Hele” and “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis” stars “Batman v Superman” are “two Piolo Pascual, John Lloyd Cruz, contrasting films.” Angel Aquino and Cherie Gil. It’s “There’s no competition. There’s directed by Lav Diaz and will be in pop-culture for Batman and there’s selected cinemas starting March history for ‘Hele,’” he concluded. 26.
EMPLOYMENT
stories. I know I can write these stories, even if Scorsese’s not exactly knocking on my door.” She’s soldiering on, because “It’s important to express who I really am—I’m Filipino but I’m also American—and I have to express that voice authentically, and in the best way I can. And that will evolve.” After 10 years of living in New York, Apuya came home to Hawaii to make her film, although she is now still enrolled in a screenwriting course at the University of California at Los Angeles. It took a few months to get to know her subject, Cipriano Erice, before she could earn his trust and tell his story. After that, it took only 17 days to shoot and edit the 10-minute short film, with help from her supervising producer, Chandler Griffith. “My grandfather was a plantation laborer, so I knew the story and had read books,” Apuya recalls. “I must have spent three months warming him (Erice) up. Nobody has the patience to do that anymore. Now, after the film, I feel there’s so much more to be said. I need to continue the storytelling and propel the story in a positive way.” Tough time Apuya discovered that Filipinos in Hawaii did have a tough time in the ’70s, when they were heavily discriminated against. She admits she still felt some of it, as well, even as a teenager in high school in Waipahu, Oahu, in the ’90s. “Pinoys really do stick out, in
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terms of characterization and perception. You can tell immediately. Filipinos tend to keep to themselves and don’t go out into the larger community,” she says. “In New York, I spent a lot of time in the theater, and a friend once observed that Filipinos had not healed. Healing means finding your voice, a way to express yourself. We have a lot of issues. Colonialism, for example, is a hurt that runs deep. The Philippines has a national inferiority complex! Even my friends wonder why I keep apologizing for things!” Apuya’s dream project is actually a film based on a Hawaiian myth, the kahuna, a spiritual being, this time embodied in a young girl who wants to be a warrior, and who discovers herself in the process. “Hawaii is my home, so it felt right to write a Hawaii story. I have to honor my culture before I can be blessed, right?” When she’s not writing three to five hours a day, Apuya surfs, of course. But right now, it’s the stories of her forebears that she’s focusing on. “It’s like doing PR work for the sakada,” she says with a laugh. “Some people don’t even want to be associated with them because they were uneducated, but there’s a way to tell the story where they’re not victimized. As a filmmaker, you can affect how to tell the story, and there’s a need to brand ourselves differently. We have to change perception, and that’s healthy.”
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Features
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • mARch 17-23, 2016
B
From fraud to waiver to citizenship in 3 not-so-easy steps!
Your Immigration Solution Atty. RobeRt Reeves Devin M. Connolly nAnCy e. MilleR Countless people want to live in the united states. It is, therefore, not surprising that people sometimes misrepresent facts in order to accomplish that goal. these lies are told for an obvious reason – telling the truth would not get them an immigration benefit. However, an immigration benefit obtained through a lie renders the alien removable. If (or when) the Department of Homeland security discovers the truth, they will take steps to deport the person to his native country. An immigrant in this situation may be eligible to apply for a waiver of their prior misrepresentation pursuant to section 237(a)(1)(H) of the Immigration and nationality Act (InA). And if the waiver is granted, and they are otherwise
eligible, they will be able to apply for us citizenship. A waiver under InA 237(a)(1)(H) “forgives” the fraud and allows the alien to keep the green card if they are the spouse, parent, or son or daughter of a us citizen or lawful permanent resident (lPR) and can meet the requirement of showing that the equities in their case outweigh the liabilities. this balance is called “favorable exercise of discretion.” the fraud or misrepresentation must be of a material fact that was made in connection with the attempt to obtain a visa or green card. the applicant must be “otherwise-admissible” to the us, but-for the material misrepresentation. this means that the immigrant will not be eligible for the waiver if they are inadmissible for reasons in addition to the fraud, such as criminal convictions. the waiver may be granted whether the misrepresentation was made at the us Consulate or a Citizenship & Immigration service (CIs) office.
the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) has said that a person may be eligible for the waiver even if they got their green card through a sham marriage. A “sham marriage” is a marriage entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining a green card. the qualifying relative, however, may not be the spouse from the sham marriage. Many other circumstances exist for which this waiver may be appropriate. A common scenario involves a prospective immigrant who has been petitioned by an lPR parent who marries before the priority date becomes current. that petition is denied or revoked as a matter of law immediately upon the marriage – whether CIs is told about the marriage or not. even if the parent is a usC, many years can be added to the wait-time. the prospective immigrant wants their spouse and their green card so they lie at the time of the interview and say
they are single. Clearly, the green card was obtained through fraud. A 237(a)(1)(H) waiver can cure the original fraud and allow the person to keep their green card – which be valid back from the date it was issued. A less common scenario involves one whose Immigration Court case was administratively closed. When he becomes eligible to obtain a green card, he lies and claims he was never in Court. CIs has no authority to grant the green card but it does not know that. so the green card that the immigrant obtained through fraud is worthless and he needs the waiver. When applying for the waiver an immigrant must demonstrate that they deserve a favorable exercise of discretion. the factors that an Immigration Judge may consider when making their decision include the immigrant’s family ties within the united states, the length of their residence in this country, whether the immigrant
or any family members would suffer hardship if the immigrant was forced to return to his or her native country, the immigrant’s employment history, the existence of any property or business ties, evidence of value or service to the community, as well other evidence of the immigrant’s good moral character. the Immigration Judge will balance these positive factors against any negative factors in an immigrant’s case. these negative factors may include the original fraud or misrepresentation, any criminal activity, or any other evidence of the immigrant’s lack of good moral character. In the end, the immigrant must demonstrate that the positive factors in their case outweigh the negative ones. A well-documented waiver application and persuasive testimony at the court hearing are essential to a successful outcome. And, yes, I did just say court. A waiver under InA § 237(a)(1)(H) may only be applied for in Im-
migration Court. With so much riding on the end result, it is important to retain a knowledgeable immigration attorney who is experienced in these types of waivers. And what is the end result? After being granted the waiver, the immigrant can go on to successfully apply for us citizenship. that is a successful outcome.
*** Atty. Reeves has represented clients in numerous landmark immigration cases that have set new policies regarding INS action and immigrants’ rights. His 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)
Filipino clothing designer, Lou Razon launches Who will be the next Top Model ready-to-wear line, ‘Lou Lou Couture’ of the World Philippines 2016? By Monet
Lu
FIFteen YeARs ago when she debuted her first fashion show at Reflections, I already saw the promising career that lies ahead of this amazing designer. From starting a couture shop and Barong tagalog store to launching her own ready-to-wear line: those refining years have brought her this far. It is an honor to feature her in my column and talk about her new R-t-W (ready-to-wear) line. I am delighted to present to you—one of my esteemed acquaintances and an inspiration to many—Ms. lou Razon. As I previously mentioned, I met lou in 2000 when I featured her in my fashion-gala awards show, Reflections. she was featured 3 consecutive times since then. Without an ounce of contention, she did earn her right to be awarded such exposure because of her exquisite designs – and I am
Brocade sheath with a distinct collar Model: Hannah Marte, Miss Philippines USA 2014 Photo by Louie Garci
just as honored to showcase her talent through my shows. lou’s quite known for her
tHe search for deserving candidates for the national finals of the “top Model of the World Philippines” (tMWPH) is now on high gear. the forthcoming national finals of tMWPH is slated in early July in Australia in the greater Melbourne area. expected to participate are delegates coming from various jurisdictions among the overseas Filipino communities. the top pageant group from Canada is the first to select and appoint its pageant winner to represent Canada in the event. other cooperators such northern California, southern California, the new York and new Jersey, and Germany area are now in the thick of their respective searches for strong candidates. Candidates from various locations in Australia and new Zealand are expected to put up a goodfight. the search for prospect candidates from the Philippines is also ongoing. For the 2016 edition, tMWPH awarded to one of its partners the right to launch the national event in its entirety in Australia. Recipient of the award is “the Face Australia Promotion Management organization” under the leadership of its national Director Maria symes. Ms. symes is a pageant impresario in the Australia-new Zealand area and is known as dominant operator in the oceania. this distinction and privilege was signed by tMWPH’s Black French Lace dress overlay with stretched Caroline C. De Venecia who is currently the president of the organization. satin slip tMWPH’s motivation is to promote closeness Model: Chrystelle Volckmann, Miss Philippines USA 2015 Photo by Gerry Edra among the Filipino communities worldwide. In its desire to further enhance the image of the Filipina Philippine-inspired creations that as a multi-talented person, it wants to show the involve a mixture of embroidery, world its exceptional character and distinction, a PAGE B7 person who will always nurture her roots and di-
versity, and be proud of it. tMWPH wants to exemplify Filipinas at home and those based overseas as being exceptionally competitive worldwide in the field of fashion, modeling, beauty. Part of its distinction is to launch its selection processes and events in select parts of the world where there substantial concentration of Filipino communities. It is currently inviting other location to participate in its national events which have the semblance of an international launch. the particulars of the search can be viewed at www.topmodeloftheworldph.com. Partners of tMWP are renowned operators with a history of having organized and launched countless of events and pageants in their respective territories. some of their candidates who joined other pageants in national and international competitions have won the principal titles. these renowned organizations are: For the new York and new Jersey area – Marhalikang Pilipino usA headed by Danny Pagsambugan; for toronto, Canada – International Professional entertainment network led by edgar sulit; for southern California, nevada and Arizona – Pageantry Global, Inc headed by trini Foliente and Cora soriano; for northern California – Js Camins Productions headed by Joey Camins; for Germany – Kapisanan ng mga Filipinos sa Aachen led by eric and eden Peñalosa; for Australia and new Zealand – the Face Australia Promotion Management organization. the principal media partner in this national event is the Asian Journal Publications, Inc (AJPI). Interested parties may directly contact trini Foliente at (818) 455-2132 or Cora soriano at (213) 999-1993.
Features
B march 17-23, 2016 • LaS VEGaS aSIaN JOUrNaL
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS IS it safe to drink beverages from the cans? Only after cleaning the can. Canned beverages (soda, beer, etc.) are usually warehoused in areas where they are exposed to possible contamination. There have been reports of illnesses among persons who drank directly from the can, which was contaminated with feces or droppings of mice or cockroaches. If one washes the can very well before putting it in the mouth, it might be safe, but the best is to wipe the area of the lid clean, even before opening it, or either pour the drink into a glass or sip the soda through a straw. Are anti-radiation patches for cellphones effective? There are oblong patches, and similar gadgets, being sold as anti-radiation shields for cell phones. The claim that this “ear piece” attached to the cellphone will minimize or abolish radiation exposure is not scientifically proven. We think this is a useless item that might even give users a false sense of security to use the cellphone longer and without care. The other question that is not resolved either is whether extended use of handheld cellphones can cause tumor of the brain. We suggest getting a hands-free attachment rather than spending money for the “anti-radiation” gimmicks. What’s best prophylaxis for traveler’s diarrhea? No traveler, especially those going abroad, should leave home without a supply of Ciprofloxacin and Immodium AD, besides their prescription medications. Since I travel a lot, these two friends always accompany me. For prevention, the best strategy is not to drink any water other than for bottled (filtered) water, preferably one brand that you are familiar with, and not to eat food being sold on the streets. Beer and other alcoholic beverages, to some extent “help sterilize” our gastrointestinal tract and ward off mild contaminants, but we should not rely on this and be careless. Cipro is used, not only for treatment of traveler’s diarrhea, but more so for prevention, usually taken once a day with breakfast. Immodium
Healthful data AD is used for the treatment of diarrhea, when it occurs. Discuss this with your physician, who will prescribe and advise you accordingly. Is Iridology really as good as it is claimed to be? During these days of advanced medical science and technology, there is nothing superior to modern western medicine. Alternative Eastern and herbal medicine are being explored and studied now in view of some promising initial observations, but it may take another decade or two for the objective and scientific verdict (relating to their efficacy, safety, standardization and long term effects) to be available. Iridology is the “science” (as the “iridologists” call it) of looking into the iris of the eye and making all sorts of diagnoses covering an endless list of diseases, without the usual complete physical examination and laboratory tests. There is no scientific basis for this claim. It is apparent that this is a money-generating scam to victimize the ignorant, the gullible and the unsuspecting. Many of these practitioners themselves actually sell medications (i.e. herbal) in their offices, one for each diagnosis they make, after only looking at the eyes of their “patients.” While hypertension or diabetes, for instance, show changes in the eyes and help the physician make a diagnosis, the majority (more than 99.9%) of illnesses cannot be diagnosed by simply looking at the iris. As always, consumers beware! Is chocolate good for our heart? While chocolate, especially the dark kind, has one of the highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity) ratings as an antioxidant, even compared to tea or concord grapes, chocolate is not good for our heart because of high caloric, fat and cholesterol content. A small bar (1.55 oz) of dark chocolate has 227 calories. Chocolate as an occasional treat is fine, but there is nothing superior to fruits, vegetables, tea, red wine, as daily sources of antioxidants. How many calories are there in nuts? These vary, but the following data can serve as a guide: peanut, about 8 calories a piece; cashew, 8.8; chestnut, 20; macadamia, 16.6; pistachio, 3.4; almonds, 7; hazelnut, 15; pecan halves, 12.7;
walnut halves, 12.9; Brazil nut, 23.8. In moderation, an ounce serving of nuts every now and then is good for us. However, we have to watch the calories they provide, which can pile up fast and negate the good health benefit from them. Can ampalaya really cure diabetes? No, there is yet no cure for diabetes, which affects about 3 million Filipinos. Pancreatic tissue transplants (with its Islet of Langerhans, insulin secretor, which is deficient or absent among those with diabetes mellitus) have been done in some centers to cure diabetes mellitus, but the last word on this regimen has not yet been said. What has been observed with the vegetable called ampalaya (Philippine bitter melon), which is a rich source of vitamin B, iron, phosphorus and calcium, is that it appears to lower blood sugar level when ingested by diabetics. In Cuba and Puerto Rico, ampalaya has been used by the natives to treat diabetes. The mechanism of action is not clear. While an herbal company has already come out with an ampalaya capsule, the medical community still awaits further and more definitive scientific studies to support this encouraging observation. As always, we recommend physician consultation and supervision when anyone tries a new medication or mode of treatment. But eating ampalaya (while the ingredients in the ampalaya capsule are being evaluated in the laboratory for efficacy, safety, long term effects, etc.) is in itself healthy, since it is natural food element, unlike many commercial herbal products that have been reported to have adverse side effects. However, ampalaya is not potent enough in treating diabetes and is not a substitute for the conventional medical regimen. *** 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
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA I CAME across an email message from a legitimate contact telling a sad story and asking for emergency money in a faroff land. I googled some phrases and sure enough, it was a scam. Out it went with the spam trash. My take on this: my contact’s email was breached and his contact list hacked. This is one of the reasons I am loath to forward emails sent by well-meaning friends, no matter how funny. What is amazing is that people have been victimized by this scam all over the world when a few keystrokes would have verified it and a bit of common sense would have raised one’s suspicions. There are rough estimates of $183 million per year on average that have been scammed from the unsuspecting on the internet. The figure could be more since a big percentage of people will not admit to being conned. The electronic age has brought us wonders and unbelievable convenience defying space/time constraints and accomplishing things we can only do in previous times if we were physically present in one place. With an internet connection, we can do great and wonderful things that were the stuff of science fiction not so long ago. But there is a sinister side to the internet. And it gets darker as moral turpitude appears to be on the rise and our capacity to be shocked is diminished with every jaw-dropping crime. There was a time when crime was met with swift and appropriate punishment. For as long as the laws which were structured in the past cannot keep up with these phenomenon of cyber crimes, it is in our best interest to learn how to become savvy net users and defend ourselves from the onslaught that comes electronically. The amount of available crud (translate that to disgusting things like porn, scams and gambling and some such variation of evil) on the net is staggering. In the book I wrote, there is a chapter dedicated on avoiding the pitfalls of scams and the schemes of con artists designed to separate you from
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Tips on scam-proofing yourself “There is a sucker born every nanosecond.”
—A play on a quote mistakenly ascribed to circus impresario, P.T. Barnum
your hard-earned money. This time, the level of sophistication is up several notches higher as unemployment and the current economic morass worldwide is driving people to desperation. If we are internet users, we are all at risk, unless and until we take the necessary psychological precautions to deal with this and become relatively “scam proof.” No one is sacrosanct. These scams are designed to prey upon two basic weaknesses ingrained in our DNA wiring as humans: GREED and FEAR. Here’s one blanket caveat to keep us on our toes about how lottery scams and cons play out in cyberspace. REMEMBER — and I can’t emphasize this often enough, on this matter, and perhaps, other significant areas of life — IF IT’S TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE, IT PROBABLY IS. Okay, repeat that as your mantra. The scams that feed on greed are so sophisticated that they can send a seemingly authentic check by mail from a real bank with so many zeroes on it. If you bite at the first overture, they then ask for a processing fee from you for you to get the rest of the winnings. This is called the Nigerian scam apparently because the first perpetrators allegedly were well educated but destitute Nigerians who found that their facility for the English language could be exploited to scam millions using the internet. The scam has spread and morphed with mind-boggling variations but with only one nefarious purpose — to separate you from your money. No one race or culture has the monopoly on these. These can originate anywhere in the world. I have had mine come in purportedly from G8 as well as impoverished countries. If you have not consciously joined any lottery, why in heaven’s name would you think you have a snowball’s chance in hell of winning even one thin dime? Also, legitimate lotteries will NEVER, repeat NEVER, ask you for money in order for a winner to claim a prize. Some scams feed on your fear.
One of the most deceptive things is to receive an email from your bank instructing you to click on a link and verify your information since someone supposedly is accessing your account and if you don’t verify your information, particularly your pin number or password, this can result in a temporary hold on your funds. The modern term for this is “phishing” which refers to the activity of defrauding an online account holder of financial information by posing as a legitimate company. I received one of these phishing calls which had a legitimate ID on the caller ID asking us to call a number and even left a reference number claiming to check on some gas card purchases. I told her I need to verify if her call is legitimate. I detected a hint of dejection in her response. Sure enough, a check on the phone number she left indicated it was a phishing call. No legitimate financial entity will ask you for financial information online. Cut scammers off at the knees with the simple expediency of calling the fraud unit of your bank or credit card company yourself. Take the bull by the horns. Generate the call. Get the telephone number from your statement or your card and DO NOT CALL THE NUMBER that the caller or e-mailer provided you with. It’s a trap. If it is an email, hit the spam button and empty the trash. Don’t just delete it. Sure, they will morph into another form but be proactive and make it more difficult for them. These scams are like viruses or shape shifters and can mutate faster than the speed of light. PC users are more vulnerable to spammers/ scammers and pesky pop-ups than Mac users. But this too can change. C’est la vie. Is there karmic justice? Because con artists rarely ever see the faces of their victims or know the full extent of the damage that they wreak on real people with real lives, these crimes seem impersonal in nature and rarely, if ever, do con artists get their PAGE B7
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Marian Rivera’s Facebook page is 19th most liked public figure page worldwide ACTRESS Marian Rivera had another honor in her belt as social media analytics site Quintly said that her Facebook page placed 19th in the Top Public Figure Facebook Pages worldwide. Rivera topped Khloe Kardashian (21st), the Dalai Lama (24th), Oprah Winfrey (27th), and Tom Cruise (30th), to clinch the spot. She is the only Filipino actress in the top 20. Fellow Filipino actress Cristine Reyes, meanwhile, placed 36th. Some celebrities and personalities who made it in the top 20 most liked public figure pages on Facebook with Rivera include Nicki Minaj, Kim Kardashian West, Ellen DeGeneres, Bill Gates and US First Lady Michelle Obama. On Monday, Rivera posted a screenshot of the rankings from Quintly on her Instagram account. She thanked fans for making the said feat possible. With more than 14 million likes, Rivera’s fan page is said to be the most liked local celebrity page in the Philippines. (Inquirer.net) Marian Rivera
Mario Batali Foundation to open New Las Vegas Library for at-risk children on Tuesday, March 29 LAS VEGAS—On Tuesday, March 29 at 9 a.m., Mario Batali will personally be on-hand to open the new Books for Kids Library at the Acelero Spring Valley Learning Center. This new library marks the third Southern Nevada library that has been funded by the Mario Batali Foundation and the 11th library nationwide. The Acelero Spring Valley Learning Center serves 325 children, from the ages of one month to five years old, year-round with 65.6 percent of the children at the Spring Valley site live below the poverty line. Furthermore, statistics from The National Institute for Early Childhood Education Research estimates 90 percent of children’s critical brain development occurs by age five. Research also shows when children are reached with high quality, early learning experiences, they are 40 percent less likely to fall behind in school and 70 percent more likely to graduate from high school. Finally, numerous studies have shown access to books is an indicator of future reading and academic success. The 161 square-foot library will hold nearly 1,000 books, many bilingual, offering a range of excellent reading material for children from 2 to 12 years old. The opening dedication cer-
emony will take place at the Acelero Spring Valley Learning Center located at 2845 Mohawk Street, Las Vegas, Nevada 89146. In addition to Batali, children from the Spring Valley Learning Center, as well as special guests from the Mario Batali Foundation and the Batali & Bastianich Hospitality Group, guests from Books for Kids and the Acelero Learning will be in attendance. The ceremony will include a ribbon cutting for the library, a book reading by Batali of Dr. Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham, as well as remarks from the Mario Batali Foundation; Books for Kids; Variety Early Learning Center and a special thank you from the children. “Every child deserves a safe, engaging and welcoming place where they can learn, explore and dream (BIG)! I believe in the children of Southern Nevada and their potential.,” says Batali, chef/founder, Mario Batali Foundation. “We are grateful for the continued support of the Mario Batali Foundation, who has been a wonderful partner of ours for the last five years. Through their generosity, they have improved the lives of hundreds of underserved children and families in New York and Las Vegas. We are thrilled they are expanding our reach in Las Vegas with a
third library so more children in Clark County can be positively impacted by access to muchneeded high-quality books and literacy resources,” says Amanda Hirsh, executive director, Books for Kids. The Mario Batali Foundation has sponsored the building of three new libraries in New York City since 2011, in Manhattan on the Lower East Side, the Upper West Side, and Chelsea and has sponsored the renovation of five Books for Kids libraries in Brooklyn, New York. In the fall of 2014, they opened their first Las Vegas library, at the Acelero Learning Reach Out Center. In summer 2015, they opened a second Las Vegas library at Variety Early Learning Center. Additionally, the Mario Batali Foundation has funded three new libraries in Los Angeles that will also open in March 2016. “What a wonderful opportunity this is for our children, families and program to have one of our esteemed community partners give such a generous and much needed donation. Thank you to the Mario Batali Foundation for donating another library that will be utilized by 325 children served by the Head Start program at our Spring Valley school,” concludes Rory Sipp, executive director, Acelero Clark County.
Tips on scam-proofing... PAGE B6 comeuppance. Translate that to jail time or some form of punishment, like being exposed to an anthill, boiled in oil or tickled to oblivion… Just kidding of course… Con artists should be happy we no longer live in Medieval Times. Often, these scammers are based overseas outside of any jurisdiction. The wheels of justice grind ponderously, exceedingly slow and you sometimes wonder if crime stoppers and society in general, would ever catch up with this distinct phenomenon of the interesting times we live in. If you think only the “little people” are at risk, think again. Governments and institutions have become easy targets for sophisticated, often juvenile hackers. Cyber crime has reached daunting proportions and has reached the institutional level. Supposedly uber secure websites such as that of the CIA, NSA, FBI, Scotland Yard, the US Congress and mega-corporations like Sony, Nintendo, Citibank and a host of others have recently been either hacked or brought to a halt from the comforts of a teen-ager’s bedroom.
A few years ago, a 19 year old, baby-faced, reclusive boy from England named Ryan Cleary, is alleged to have been responsible for bringing down the websites of the CIA and Scotland Yard. The teener stayed glued to his computer holed up all day in his room filled with posters of scantily clad women. The upside to be gleaned from such high-level security breaches is that this exposes the weaknesses of such websites. It also shows how vulnerable we all are. The electronic security industry sees the potential of a business that can change the architecture of the internet by piping the flow of information. For government operatives to use unsecured email to conduct top secret operations is like dangling fresh bait to a sea of sharks. Clearly, these breaches, like Julian Assange’s wikileaks, are not for monetary gain but for the notoriety and the bragging rights of being a once lowly unknown gnat bringing down behemoths. The motive is deeply rooted in probably what Andy Warhol once said in 1968, “In the future, everyone will be world famous for 15 minutes.”
But those big holes are for the big boys to plug. As for the ordinary cyber citizens, simply proceed with caution when online. In cyber matters, a healthy dose of cynicism and a smidgen of common sense work as well as an ounce of prevention. Be on guard. Better yet, UNPLUG for long stretches from Facebook or any other social media or from following inane and insane celebrity tweets on Twitter and strive to live in the REAL WORLD. Grill mouthwatering salmon steaks brushed with butter and sprinkled with lemon juice or create panini sandwiches on your grill pan. Dance like mad, with or without a partner in private or in a dance hall. Take time to sip your tea or tend to your garden in the spring. Laugh with the kids. Log off for long stretches of time and create something that will make your heart glad. Get back and live in the real world rather than the virtual world. It is our way of affirming that indeed, life is for living. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
Filipino clothing designer, Lou Razon launches... PAGE B5 lace, silk organza and silk chiffon. Akin to her sophisticated personality is her style which picks on vibrant colors and jewel tones, as well as neutrals like black gray and beige. Most of her designs are crafted with delicate draping to add that majestic touch only Lou knows how. Her patterns are all original and very unique in its own special way. As her website bio describes, “Every piece is treated like an obra.” Born in Manila, Philippines, Lou moved to the US in 1990. To further her already-innate passion for design, she mastered in Fashion Design at the Art Institute in Los Angeles and became the best designer graduate of the year. Prior to that, Lou studied Bachelor of Arts in Interior design in the Philippines, (she) has traveled to Taiwan, Hong Kong, China and London to gain more knowledge and study the different styles and approach in fashion designing. In 1997, she started doing couture design for clients who believe in custom crafted, made to measure, one-of-a-kind dresses. She started her couture business in 1997 focusing on bridal and evening wear.
Now based in Glendale, California, Lou’s elegant and unique clothing designs have reached a growing demand among women over the years. She was recognized as, “Newsmaker of the Year” by Dyaryo Pilipino, Most Promising Designer (awarded by then Consul General of the Philippines, Edwin Bael), and has earned more awards for her talent given by SIPA Search to Involve Pilipino Americans, Virgo Awards and Celebrity Chronicle. Lou was the very first Filipino designer that walked the red carpet at the Oscars, greeted with rave reviews in 2002, and heralded her arrival as a new and important Filipino designer. After perfecting her skill in garment fit and construction, Lou decided to pursue her ultimate dream of designing her Ready-towear line. Thus, in 2015, ‘Lou Lou’ was created. Lou Lou couture debut Debuting in 2016 for Fashion Week LA is Lou’s name brand called LouLou, a contemporary women’s fashion that is distinctive, feminine and innovative. Her mission statement is to design clothing that shows versatility and femininity. Lou Lou expresses classic femi-
ninity. Sshe gets her inspiration from the classic cuts of the 40s. Her designs exude elegance with simple, clean lines. Use of fabrics like brocade, wool and lace is visible in her collection. She opts for vibrant colors in her 2016 line, royal blue and red stand are stand outs. Black and nude are incorporated in her collection. Lou is also the woman behind Miss Philippines USA as its Creative Director and Executive Producer. Known for its reputable standing, the pageant has been endowing Fil-Am women with grace, exemplary morale, and able to be an Ambassador of Goodwill. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
Get the best price for your valuables at Nevada Coin Mart
WITH tons of places to choose from to bring your old jewelry, there’s only one place in Las Vegas that will pay the best amount for these valuables. At Nevada Coin Mart, customers can rest assured that they will be properly compensated for the precious stones and metals they bring in. Neil Sackmary, the owner of the store, is a graduate gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) with more than 20 years of experience in buying these items. “When it comes to myself, this is my passion. This is what I went to school for,” Sackmary said. GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones and pearls. It was established in 1931 and strives to protect the jewelry and gem buying public by setting quality standards worldwide. As a certified GIA specialist, Sackmary points out that simply because a business that purchases these stones has been around for decades, that does not make it an expert source. This is a particularly important fact for members of the Asian American community to note. “In the Asian community, people don’t buy cheap stones. They always spend really good money and when they do, they want to sell them for good money and they want someone who’s an expert. You don’t want to take it to someone who says they’re in the business for 35 years. That does not make them an expert,” Sackmary said. Nevada Coin Mart purchases a wide variety of items, including coins, bullion, diamonds, jewelry, gold, silver and watches, at premium prices. At the shop, Sackmary has the latest technology, including a $9,000 diamond microscope and $30,000 X-ray spectrometer, which allows him to thoroughly examine how much the metals and stones customers bring in are worth. “Most people want to rip off customers because they don’t care. They look at them and say, ‘Well, if I can, I’ll take advan-
Neil Sackmary
tage. I’m never going to see you again’,” Sackmary said. That’s not what happens at Nevada Coin Mart. In one instance, Sackmary paid a customer $1,510 for two rings that were quoted for $150 at a competitor store. It’s because of its transparency and fairness to those who walk into Nevada Coin Mart that about 70 percent of its clients are repeat customers who come back for the value they receive for their items. The business takes it a step further by providing security guards who are former police officers and 47 cameras to monitor the entire building. Visitors can also request to have a guard walk them in and out of the building free of charge. Sackmary and his wife have been in the business of buying jewelry and other metals for many
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years and have been online selling costume jewelry for about 15 years. They are also present every day the shop is open, which is located on the corner of Jones Boulevard and Flamingo Road. In addition to putting their customers’ interests first, the Sackmarys are active community members who have participated in charity event Operation FireHEAT and are founding sponsors for the Anthem Women’s Club. Nevada Coin Mart was established in 1971 and is licensed by Clark County to legally purchase jewelry from the general public. Nevada Coin Mart 4065 S Jones Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89103 Phone: (702) 776-7061 Hours: Monday through Sunday, 9am to 5 pm Advertising Supplement
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5th Statewide Disabilities Conference Agencies, service providers and caretakers, community organizations, consumers, jobseekers, families…please join us for the California Statewide Disabilities Conference from March 18-19, 2016 at The Westin Pasadena hotel (191 N. Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA). Expert panels/sessions/topics to be discussed include special education for those with disabilities, autism, assistive technology, ACA/Health, civil rights, mental health, financial wellness, discrimination, employment benefits, college supportive services, transition to adulthood, and outreach to the diverse Asian American - Pacific Islander community. This event is sponsored by the Asian & Pacific Islanders with Disabilities of California (APIDC), giving a voice and face to Asians and Pacific Islanders with disabilities, and improving access to resources for API families. APIDC has hosted four major conferences in California. The conference will also include social service agencies, and exhibitors/representatives such as educators, attorneys, and health care providers. Special gift giveaways and raffle prizes are available to all registered conference attendees. For registration and more information (including scholarships) about the conference, please contact Jamie Hwang at 714-4033188, APIDC@gmail.com, and visit www.apidisabilities.net.
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2016 Piyesta Pinoy Chicago Sunday, March 20 from 11:45am to 4:00pm is the Philippine Celebration (Piyesta Pinoy sa Chicago), as part of the Neighborhoods of the World series at Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens (Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL). Come travel to the Philippines without ever leaving your backyard! This cultural celebration is free and open to the public of all ages. Join us and enjoy an afternoon of lively folk music, special performances, traditional dance, cuisine, arts and crafts. The Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) and thevibrant Filipino community of Chicago is so proud to put on this event for the 5th year in a row, and Piyesta Pinoy is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our culture with our people.For more information, or to volunteer, perform, exhibit, or donate, please visitwww. piyestapinoy.net, or email Piyestpinoy@gmail.com.
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Pilgrimages to Eastern Europe, Mexico and India Amazing Pilgrimages for the Jubilee Year of Mercy! All are welcome to join Fr. Joe Joseph of Holy Trinity Church for the spiritual and fun-filled experiences of EASTERN EUROPE (April 17- 30): Poland, Czech., Austria, Hungary, Medjugorje; COLONIAL MEXICO/ OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE (June 20 - 27): Mexico City, Theotihuacan, Puebla, Tlaxcala, Ocotlan, Xochimilco, Guanajuato, San Miguel De Allende, Guadalajara, San Juan De Los Lagos, Cristo Rey, Zapopan, Tonala; and INDIA (September 15 - 29): Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Kolkata, Kerala. For more pilgrimage information and detailed flyers, please contact Bernadette at bcorp1114@hotmail.com OR call 323-344-1548 & 323-547-6618.
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