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Volume 27 - No. 36 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages
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DATELINE Fil-Am community leaders, activists outline consequences of not voting in U.S. election FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
LOLIT Lledo and many other activists boycotted the 1986 snap elections that led to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos’s ouster. They refused to campaign, vote or otherwise take part in what they viewed as a rigged system. In retrospect, she said the decision not to participate was detrimental to the Philippines in the long run. Many of the people representing interests from the past regime that she had fought against eventually re-entered positions of prominence. “Because we did not participate we [acPAGE A2
S E P T E MBE R 1 5 - 2 1 , 2 0 1 6
UN: Rody has ‘striking lack’ of understanding of rights by
PIA LEE-BRAGO Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines – The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has lambasted President Duterte for allegedly undermining justice and human rights amid the killings of Filipino drug suspects. “The President of the Philippines’ statements of scorn for international
human rights law display a striking lack of understanding of our human rights institutions and the principles which keep societies safe,” Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said when he addressed the 33rd session of the world body’s Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland on Tuesday. Al Hussein urged the Philippines to allow the UN special rapporteur for hu-
man rights to visit the country. Reacting to the condemnation, the Philippine government said the drug war was being waged by the Duterte administration with “firm adherence” to human rights principles, due process and the rule of law. The UN rights chief highlighted the challenges confronting the international community and expressed particular
Duterte never empowered cops to kill drug suspects –PH envoy to UN
LA County gun confiscation program inspired by slain Filipino postal worker ASSAULT type rifles, handguns and even a submachine gun designed for concealment in a briefcase were among the weapons seized from people on probation and displayed in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday, September 8. Officers of the Los Angeles County Probation Department laid a wide assortment of weapons out in a conference room of the Kenneth Hahn Administration building to showcase the efforts of the Developing Increased Safety Through Arms Recovery Management (DISARM) program. The illegally possessed items were found as the result of wellness and compliance checks on probationers conducted by various LA PAGE A3
concern over attempts by countries to block human rights scrutiny. “Fair and impartial rule of law is the foundation of public confidence and security. Empowering police forces to shoot to kill any individual whom they claim to suspect of drug crimes, with or without evidence, undermines justice. The people of the Philippines have a PAGE A2
by ESTRELLA
TORRES Inquirer.net
TAX EXEMPT. Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning to their jobs or same employers abroad are now exempted from paying travel tax as well as securing overseas employment certificate and paying Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) processing fee. In a newly approved memorandum circular, the POEA said the new policy was in line with the government’s efforts to streamline the processing of OFWs’ documents. Philstar file photo
PHILIPPINE permanent representative to the United Nations in Geneva Cecilia Rebong said President Rodrigo Duterte had never empowered police authorities to “shoot to kill” any individual suspected of drug crimes after the UN high commissioner for human rights criticized the rising summary killings in the Philippines, which is backed by the administration’s war on drugs. The Department of Foreign Affairs said Ambassador Rebong delivered the Philippine statement on Wednesday at the second day of 33rd Session of the UN Human Rights Council in response to the speech of UN high commissioner for human rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein. She said the Philippine leader’s marching order to PAGE A2
Imee Marcos: Please forgive my father Palace: Duterte didn’t give green light for Veloso’s execution
by LEILANIE
ADRIANO Inquirer.net
LAOAG CITY — Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos pled forgiveness for the “sins” of her father, the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, at the end of a three-day celebration of his 99th birthday in Batac City on Sunday, Sept. 11. “Whatever sins my father committed—he was, after all, human who made mistakes—I hope people absolve him. I hope that beyond all these issues, they would find mercy because in forgiving my father, their anger would be sated and they too would find peace,” Imee said in Filipino. She said the family had been hurt by the outrage triggered by the plan to bury Marcos at Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City. The plan was stopped by the Supreme Court, which is hearing arguments on whether Marcos deserves to be buried at the heroes’ cemetery. Imee thanked the people who supported the Marcos family all these years. “If not for you, the family would have broken down. We draw our strength, our stability and our love from you all,” she said. She described her father as
by CHRISTINA AND
GOLDEN STATUE. Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos leads the wreath-laying ceremony at the golden statue of her father, the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, in Sarrat town, his birthplace. Ev Espiritu/Inquirer Norther Luzon
a “simple member of the community who loved the Ilocano dish dinengdeng (vegetable stew), a man who loved to dance the tango, and a father who was indulgent, patient and always joking around.” “He belonged to the best times of gentleman-politicians. We are thankful for his teaching presidency,” said Marcos’ nephew, Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Eugenio Angelo Marcos
Barba. “When I asked mom (Fortuna, Marcos’ youngest sister) what was her most unforgettable experience with Uncle Andy (Marcos), she recalled that when she needed to be in Manila after the war, her brother came rushing to her and accompanied her from Sarrat (town) to Manila. Going to Manila that time was very difficult,” Barba said.
M. ORIEL DANA SIOSON AJPress
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte did not give his “go-ahead” for Mary Jane Veloso’s execution, Malacañang clarified on Monday, Sept.12. What Duterte told Indonesian President Joko Widodo was that he would not interfere with the latter country’s laws, according to Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella. “The president just informed us that his actual statement and conversation with President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo went like this: He said regarding Mary Jane Veloso, ‘follow your own laws. I President Rodrigo Duterte talks with his Indonesian counterpart Joko Widodo during will not interfere,’” Abella said. their meeting at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Sept. 9. Duterte is currently Inquirer.net PAGE A2 on a two-day visit to the country.
PAL, Cebu Pacific ban use of Samsung Note 7 on flights ing the lead of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) against packing the phones into MANILA, Philippines — Lo- any checked-in luggage after cal carriers banned on Tues- reports emerged of the device day, September 13, the use of exploding during or after chargSamsung Galaxy Note 7 cellular ing. phones during flights, followPAGE A2 by RUDY
SANTOS Philstar.com
A
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September 15-21, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
From The FronT Page
UN: Rody has ‘striking lack’ of... PAGE A1 right to judicial institutions that are impartial, and operate under due process guarantees; and they have a right to a police force that serves justice,� Al Hussein said. “I strongly encourage the Philippines to extend an invitation to the Special Rapporteur (Agnes Callamard) on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions. My office is ready to assist, including with respect to rule of law institutions and the prevention and treatment of drug use in accordance with international norms,� he added. Clarification In response, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Philippines corrected Al Hussein’s report yesterday, noting President Duterte never empowered police officers to “shoot to kill� drug suspects. The police have the right to defend themselves when their lives are endangered when drug suspects violently resist arrest, Ambassador Cecilia Rebong, the Philippines’ Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, said in a statement delivered on the second day of the session. Rebong emphasized the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs was unparalleled in Philippine history and was “being waged under the leadership and direction� of Duterte with “a firm adherence to the rule of law, due process and human rights principles.� The ambassador said the President, in fact, urged civil rights organizations to report any killings that were not in accordance with his pronouncements on the anti-illegal drug campaign. The Philippine statement also noted the spike in the number of killings included deaths resulting from legitimate police operations and those carried out by vigilante elements as well as drug syndicates undertaking a purge among their ranks.
Duterte never empowered cops to kill... PAGE A1
police was that they have the right to defend themselves when their lives are endangered when drug suspects violently resist arrest. Rebong emphasized that the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs had the overwhelming support of the Filipino public. She said the war on drugs was “being waged under the leadership and direction of President Rodrigo Duterte, with a firm adherence to the rule of law, due process, and human rights principles.� Rebong also said the anti-illegal drug war was unparalleled in Philippine history for its level of tenacity. “The Chief Executive, in his inaugural speech, affirmed in no vague language his respect “The President of the Philippines’ statements of scorn for international human rights law display a striking lack of understanding of our human rights institutions and the principles which keep societies safe,� Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said when he addressed the 33rd session of the world body’s Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland.
The government denounces and does not resort to extrajudicial or arbitrary executions, Rebong emphasized, and was gravely concerned about accusations purporting that the administration was tolerating such actions. Rebong said the government was investigating the extrajudicial killings and was committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. She also said “police authorities take seriously allegations of its officers’ involvement in such activities, and follow established internal procedures for investigating and addressing such cases.� Rebong asked the international community to support the Philippine campaign against illegal drugs to build communities conducive to every Filipino’s right to live in peace and dignity and attain a higher standard of living free of the menace. DFA spokesperson Charles Jose said Rebong also handed to
the UN rights chief an aide memoire elaborating on the Philippines’ “resolute and uncompromising� commitment to human rights being a state party to eight out of nine core international human rights conventions. Rebong stated “the relentless� campaign against illegal drugs was being done due to the prevalence of use and sale of prohibited substances “in all strata of Philippine society, the increasing criminality in the streets, the involvement of top-ranking officials in the Philippine government, all of which has destroyed – and continues to destroy – the lives of millions of Filipinos, in particular the youth.� The ambassador said the President was elected into office by 16 million Filipinos on a key platform of urgently addressing criminality, peace and order, and eliminating poverty in the country and the campaign against illegal drugs was part of his commitment to the Filipino people.
Palace: Duterte didn’t give green light... PAGE A1
He added, “There was no categorical statement, there was no endorsement. He simply said follow your own laws.� The clarification comes after a news report in the Jakarta Post headlined, “Duterte has given green light for Mary Jane’s execution.� Citing Antara — an Indonesian news agency — the report said, “President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo said on Monday that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had given the green light for the execution of Filipina death row inmate Mary Jane Veloso.� “President Duterte has given the go-ahead to proceed with the execution,� Widodo stated. The report went on to quote the Indonesian president saying, “I have explained to [Duterte] about Mary Jane’s situation and
I told him that Mary Jane [has been found guilty] for carrying 2.6 kilograms of heroin. I also told him about the delay in the execution during the meeting.� Last Friday, Sept. 9, Duterte flew to Indonesia to meet with Widodo to discuss various topics, reportedly including the case of the 31-year-old Filipina. “I had a talk, this one of the topics of this conversation, everybody was excluded and a lot to cover, security arrangements including the Filipinos who are in jail and facing charges in Indonesia,� Duterte said in a press conference at the Davao International Airport. Duterte declined to discuss specifics of the conversation involving Veloso’s case. “There are matters that I cannot tell you now, I’m sorry, I’m not a liberty but maybe, I can talk
to the family first,� he added. On Tuesday, Sept. 13, the president said that asking for clemency would be hypocritical because his administration has been fighting the issue of drugs. “I said we will respect the judgments of your courts. Period. It would have been a bad taste in the mouth to be talking about having a strong posture against drugs and here you are begging for something,� he said during the 48th anniversary of the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing in Villamor Airbase in Pasay City. He continued to report that, “it’s good that [Indonesia has] the death penalty here, at least you can bring it down to the barest minimum. I said go ahead and implement the law — I never. We never mentioned about Veloso.� Veloso was arrested at Adisucipto Airport in Yogyakarta and was charged with drug trafficking in April 2010 for allegedly smuggling 2.6 kilograms of heroin. Supporters argue that Veloso was falsely promised a job to be a maid in Malaysia and was instead lured to be a drug mule without her knowledge. She was on the execution list but was given a last-minute reprieve on April 29, 2015, after Manila told Jakarta that her alleged recruiter had been arrested in the Philippines. When asked if Duterte had sought clemency for Veloso, Abella replied, “There is no need to plea for clemency as there was no scheduled execution.� He added that “If, and when, the Indonesian Supreme Court decides to act on the execution, that will be time to present (evidence proving) Veloso’s innocence as a justification for a plea of clemency.�
for human rights and the rule of law,� said Rebong in his speech before delegates at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. She pointed out that President Duterte has, in fact, urged civil rights organizations (NGOs and CSOs) to report any killings which were not in accordance with his pronouncements on the anti-illegal drug campaign. The Philippine statement, read by Rebong, argued that the recent increase in the number of killings include deaths resulting from legitimate police operations as well as killings carried out by vigilante elements, and drug syndicates undertaking a purge among their ranks. The DFA also said that the Philippine statement assured the international community that
“the government is investigating these killings committed by vigilante groups and drug syndicates, and is committed to bring the perpetrators to justice.� Rebong said “the Philippines denounces and does not resort to extrajudicial or arbitrary executions, and is gravely concerned about accusations purporting that the administration tolerates such actions.� She emphasized that “police authorities take seriously allegations of its officers’ involvement in such activities, and follow established internal procedures for investigating and addressing such cases.� Rebong urged the international community to support the Philippine campaign against illegal drugs.
PAL, Cebu Pacific ban use of Samsung... PAGE A1 Flag carrier Philippine Airlines and leading low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific followed suit starting yesterday, issuing their respective advisories. “Philippine Airlines is prohibiting the charging and use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices on board all its flights, effective immediately. PAL is issuing this directive in line with the recall order made on these products by Samsung Electronics Company Limited.� Findings showed that the Galaxy Note 7 batteries and phone units have caught fire during charging, prompting the manufacturer to recall all units sold worldwide. Samsung said that only Galaxy Note 7 phones have been recalled due to the factory defect that causes the batteries to explode. PAL said safety remains a cornerstone of its operations, “and as such, the flag carrier will be ensuring full compliance on board each flight and is seeking the full cooperation of its passengers.� “In addition, these devices are not allowed as check-in items, but may be hand-carried for as long as these are switched off
at all times. All Samsung Galaxy Note 7 units - whether used or brand new - will not be accepted as PAL cargo shipment.� In a statement yesterday, PAL said it started the prohibition of the use of such devices since Sept. 9, to comply with a directive of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The IATA directive was issued following Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.’s global recall order on the products last week. The recall is being undertaken as findings showed the Galaxy Note 7 batteries and phone units have caught fire during charging. Low-cost carriers Cebu Pacific and AirAsia also said they are not allowing passengers to use and charge the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 device while onboard the aircraft. “We sincerely hope for our passengers’ full cooperation, as the safety of everyone onboard our flights remains our utmost priority,� Cebu Pacific said. Cebu Pacific (CEB) said: “In light of the recent recall of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices due to safety issues, Cebu Pacific advises passengers that the usage and charging of the device are prohibited onboard all CEB and
Cebgo flights beginning Sept. 11 until further notice,� the airline said in a statement. CEB added that Galaxy Note 7 devices must also not be stowed in checked-in baggage, but may be hand-carried as long as the device is turned off at all times inside the aircraft. AirAsia said their guests might approach any of their ground staff for further information about the new guideline on the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 device. American television Fox 10 reported claims that a faulty Galaxy Note 7 had set fire to a family’s jeep. Samsung has said that battery problems were behind the phones catching fire, but that it was difficult to work out which phones were affected among those sold. The phone was launched last August and has been otherwise generally well received by consumers and critics. Live Mint consumer report said: “For Samsung, which prides itself on manufacturing prowess, the scale of the recall, which covers 10 markets including the Philippines, is expected to be unprecedented.� (With Louella Desiderio)
Programs Assistant for the Pilipino Workers Center, Teresita Villasenor, attempts to rally potential voters and volunteers at the PWC election forum on Saturday, Septermber 10 AJPress photo by Eric Anthony Licas
Fil-Am community leaders, activists outline... PAGE A1
tivists] were left out when Cory was the president,� said Lledo, who now serves as the associate director for Pilipino Workers Center (PWC). “If you have a chance, you have to be a part of the political process.� Resentment has characterized the 2016 U.S. presidential race. However, individuals, especially Filipinos, who are dissatisfied with this year’s candidates and are thinking of skipping November’s election forget what is at stake. That’s the belief of panelists representing a spectrum of liberal views at a forum held at the PWC in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 10. Speakers challenged citizens and residents to make an impact in this year’s election cycle, and the future of American politics. They noted that a vacant seat
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on the Supreme Court, vastly contrasting immigration plans proposed by this year’s major party candidates and other emerging topics place too much at risk for Filipinos and other people of color to stay silent in November. “If someone tells you it makes no difference, they’re not living the life you’re living,� said Bill Gallegos, former executive director of the environmental group Communities for a Better Environment, during Saturday’s forum. He added that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump’s plans for America would mean sending out “200,000 ICE (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement) agents with guns and tanks to round people up.� Along with other panelists, Gallegos, a critic of Trump and former Bernie Sanders supporter, warned against the consequences of enacting Trump’s plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants living in the United States. They also criticized the Republican candidate’s stance on foreign policy, the environment, education, minimum wage laws and other matters of great import to Filipinos and other minority communities. “Democracy takes work. It takes education. It takes commitment,� said Grace Barrios,the vice president of outreach for Pilipino American Los Angeles Democrats (PALAD). “If our voice isn’t heard, they think it isn’t important.� PWC hosted Saturday evening’s event in order to engage more Filipino Americans in the political process during a time that may prove to be a pivotal moment in their community’s future. Many members of the com-
munity are either unregistered or do not plan on voting, and Fil-Ams have traditionally been reluctant to take part in political action, according to PWC Executive Director Aquilina Versoza. “The actual voting potential of our community is not being realized; we’re below average in turnout,� said Versoza. “This could be seen as negative, but on the other hand, I see a lot of potential in our community.� She and other activists hope to awaken the political consciousness of California’s largest Asian American and Pacific Islander ethnicity. Events like Saturday’s forum serve to introduce members of the community to the national discussion and inform them of their options. Kabataang maka-Bayan: ProPeople Youth (KMB) chair Eddy Gana reminded forum attendees that their choices were for president not limited to Trump or Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. “There is no lesser of two evils, only candidates that do or do not better represent your ideals,� said Gana on Saturday. “A vote for a third party is not a wasted vote.� He said widespread disillusionment felt by many voters during the current election cycle is a sign that Americans are ready to substantially challenge the two-party system. Americans can combat the root cause of that resentment by considering a vote for Green Party Candidate Jill Stein, Libertarian Gary Johnson, or any of the other non-establishment party candidates. However, Carol Ojeda-Kimbrough, an activist in attendance at the forum, suggested that third-party votes could raise the likelihood of a Republican vicPAGE A3
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DATELINE USA
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2016
A3
More Filipino terms included US sex abuser of PH kids gets 60 years in prison in Oxford English Dictionary by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
THE Oxford English Dictionary (OED), billing itself as the definitive record of the English language, is one of the largest and longest running language research projects in the world. This month, OED has updated and revised more than 1,000 entries. And in its September 2016 update, at least 15 Filipino terms, mostly traditional dishes and delicacies, officially made it to the dictionary’s list. The new list consisted of Filipino food like balut (fertilized duck egg), kare-kare (peanut-based
stew), leche flan (custard made with condensed milk), lechon (whole roasted pig), lechon asado, pancit (noodles) and puto (steamed rice cake). Family member terms like lola (grandmother), lolo (grandfather), tita (auntie), and tito (uncle), and other words like yaya (housemaid or nanny), arnis (martial arts form), tabo (dipper), and bayanihan (sense of community) were also included. Marking the centenary of author Roald Dahl’s birth this month, words like splendiferous (full of splendour), human bean (mispronunciation of human be-
ing), and Dahlesque were also included in relation to Dahl and his writing. The OED is updated quarterly — March, June, September, and December. Words become candidates for inclusion in the dictionary if they are being used in a variety of different sources. The terms will be officially added if they are seen as important and likely to stand the test of time. In the previous March 2016 update, Filipino words “kilig” (tingly romantic feeling) and “teleserye” (soap opera) were added in the OED.
LA County gun confiscation program inspired...
PAGE A1
County law enforcement agencies. “Since I initiated it in 2000, this program has removed nearly 11,000 guns from the streets,” L.A. County Supervisor Mike Antonovich told the Asian Journal after Thursday’s press event. “This means we have saved a number of lives because the criminals don’t have the guns to commit crimes.” The program was largely inspired by a wave of gun control advocacy in response to a shooting spree that happened at the North Valley Jewish Community Center in Granada Hills, California. There, on Tuesday, August 10, 1999, a self-described white supremacist opened fire, wounding two adults and three children. Following the initial attack, the gunman later crossed paths with Filipino-American postal worker
Joseph Ileto. The letter carrier was filling in as a substitute on another person’s route when he was murdered for being a minority and a federal employee. Since it was launched nearly 16 years ago, DISARM has contributed to the arrest of over 23,000 people in possession of a firearm while on probation, according to police statistics. In collaboration with the L.A. Interagency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Task Force (IMPACT), about $730 million dollars in illegal drug money has been recovered. Antonovich said he would like to see the program expanded on a statewide level. “They can use Los Angeles County, for the past 16 years as the pilot program showing that it works effectively and it needs to be expanded,” he said. Despite ongoing efforts by law
enforcement, police say the confiscated weapons are likely only a fraction of the unlawfully possessed guns out on the street because firearms can be purchased on the black market or stolen. Officers say tips from the public are crucial in keeping guns out of the wrong hands. “Our citizens are our ears, and they’re our eyes,” Lieutenant Lajuna Haselrig of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told the Asian Journal. “Private citizens see before we do.” She hopes those who suspect a person of illegally possessing a firearm will contact either the probation department, local police or, if they wish to remain anonymous, LA crime stoppers. In addition, officers strongly encourage people who own guns to keep them locked away in a gun safe. (Eric Anthony Licas / AJPress)
Fil-Am community leaders, activists outline... PAGE A2 tory in November. As a cautionary tale, she brought up the 2000 presidential race in which Democrat Al Gore won the popular vote, but lost in the electoral college to Republican George W. Bush. Many progressive voters who supported Green Party candidate Ralph Nader that year deeply regretted her decision, especially after the initiation of the Iraq War, according to Ojeda-Kimbrough. KMB and PWC do not support a particular party, but Gana said
he could sympathize with people worried about the implications of a possible Trump presidency. However, he believes that even if the Republican nominee took office, one way or another, either Congress or the American people would not allow the billionaire’s most controversial proposals to be realized. Gana added that a Trump presidency would provide further incentive to move away from the two-party system. Whichever side they may lean towards, panelists say it is criti-
cal for Fil-Ams to speak out more frequently to ensure that the needs of the community are not ignored. Even if they are not eligible to vote, residents can still help the community make an impact through volunteer work. “We want everyone to get involved,” said PWC community organizer, Ian Kamus. “Even if you don’t necessarily like the candidates, there are other issues that are oftentimes bigger than the candidates that you have to look at.” (Eric Anthony Licas / AJPress)
PORTLAND, Oregon – A US federal court judge sentenced a 47-year-old Forest Grove man to 60 years in prison for sexually abusing children in the Philippines. U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon on Thursday, Sept. 8, sentenced Steven Douglas Rockett to 60 years in federal prison followed by a life term of supervised release. Rockett was convicted by a federal jury in Portland, Oregon after a seven-day trial in May of this year, for producing child pornography outside the United States, engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, producing and attempting to produce child pornography (five counts) and possession of child pornography. Prosecutors presented victim impact statements from Filipino child victims as well as statements from Rockett’s victims in Oregon. The prosecutors urged the court to impose a sentence of no less than 60 years – 45 consecutive to Rockett’s 52.5-year sentence in Oregon State court for crimes committed against a number of different victims. Rockett’s attorneys requested the mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years, imposed to run concurrently with Rockett’s state sentence, which is presently on appeal. “One of civil society’s most important duties and obligations is to protect the most vulnerable among us. Children are the most vulnerable,” observed Judge Simon before agreeing with the prosecution’s recommendation and sentencing Rockett to 60 years – 45 to be served consecutive to the Rockett’s state sentence. ‘Extremely serious offenses’ Judge Simon noted that these were “extremely serious offenses.” He expressed doubt that Rockett could refrain from committing further crimes if released from prison. Judge Simon imposed a sentence designed to ensure that Rockett would not harm any other children stating, “I don’t think you are capable of restraining yourself.” The evidence presented at trial established that Rockett traveled to the Philippines, where he sexually abused Filipino children, and produced or attempted to produce child pornography depicting them. Rockett solicited children (either directly or through a parent) both in the Philippines and
Steven Douglas Rockett
in Oregon, to take and send him sexually explicit images of themselves. In addition, Rockett surreptitiously recorded children undressing and showering at his residence in Forest Grove, at a former residence in Aloha, and in hotel rooms in the Philippines. Collaborative investigation The investigation was a collaborative effort on the part of the Forest Grove Police Department, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI. Investigators executed search warrants at Rockett’s residence, and seized computer equipment and digital data storage devices. Investigators found a pinhole camera hidden in a wall in a guest bathroom, which Rockett used to record images of naked children. Another spy camera, hidden inside a clock radio, contained surreptitious video recordings of naked Filipino children in the bathroom and shower of Rockett’s hotel room. Rockett appeared in some of the videos. FBI Special Agents traveled to Cebu City, Philippines, where they identified and interviewed some of the victims depicted in the videos, and some of the children who Rockett solicited to send him sexually explicit images. The jury heard testimony from seven victims who were sexually abused or exploited by Rockett in Oregon and overseas. The jury deliberated several hours before reaching their verdict. “This sentence is a just and deserving punishment for a dangerous sexual predator, and reflects the life-long impact his conduct will have on his victims,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney
for the District of Oregon.” Williams added, “We will not tolerate American citizens traveling abroad to sexually abuse children. Child sexual predators like Steven Rockett must understand that the sexual exploitation of children carries severe consequences, as Judge Simon’s sentence clearly demonstrates.” Life behind bars “Effectively, Steven Rockett will, rightfully, live the rest of his life behind bars. I would ask the community to remember that the innocent children who suffered his abuse will also pay a heavy price for many years to come,” said Greg Bretzing, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “No child deserves to live a life of violence and violation, and it is our responsibility to bring justice to them and their families.” This case stemmed from a coordinated investigation by members of the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force and was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice and led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. (Inquirer.net)
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Gov. Brown expands overtime pay for farmworkers by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
HUNDREDS of thousands of California’s agricultural workers are now guaranteed the same overtime pay as other workers in a historic move by Gov. Jerry Brown. On Monday, September 12, the governor signed AB 1066, which will expand overtime pay for farmworkers, a workforce that had long been denied the same overtime pay as other industries. Previously, laws prohibited pay-
ing farmworkers overtime pay unless they work more than 10 hours a day or 60 hours a week. Thanks to the passing of AB 1066, that threshold will be lowered by a half hour each year for four years starting 2019. This means that by 2022, farmworkers will be guaranteed overtime pay if they work more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week — a standard in other industries, but a first in the state’s agricultural workforce. The bill was sponsored by the
United Farm Workers of America, which said that Brown’s passing of the bill was a victory after nearly 80 years of working for the rights of farmworkers. Six years ago, then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill. Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez of California’s 80th District, who authored AB 1066, praised Brown’s decision to pass the bill. Gonzalez, a daughter of an immigrant farmworker, has long pushed for workers rights, especially immigrants and workers of color. Of the state’s farmworkers, 90 percent are Latino and 80 percent are immigrants, according to the Los Angeles Times. “The hundreds of thousands of men and women who work in California’s fields, dairies and ranches feed the world and anchor our economy,” Gonzalez said in a speech following the bill’s passing. “They will finally be treated equally under the law. It is a good day.” Filipino-American Assemblymember Rob Bonta, a fervent supporter of AB 1066 and farmworkers rights, took to Twitter to thank Brown. “Thank you @JerryBrownGov for signing #AB1066 #Farmworker OT pay is a reality for those who put food on our tables!” Bonta tweeted on Monday. Another long time supporter of the bill Thomas Perez, secretary for the United States Department of Labor, shared his support for the bill’s passing in a statement. “People who work on farms and in our homes are some of America’s most vulnerable workers,” Perez said. “We all depend on their work to feed and care for our families, but far too often they can’t afford to put food on their own dinner tables.” However, the bill’s passing has been met with critics. The Sacramento Bee reported that business groups believe that increasing labor costs will be damaging in a key agricultural state. Other said that the farm workers will be harmed if employers “reduce worker hours to avoid triggering overtime requirements,” the Bee reported. However, advocates for the bill say that the bill is a step towards equality for a historically marginalized group. The state did not grant overtime pay for farm laborers until 1976 when the 10-houra-day/60-hours-a-week threshold was established by the state’s Industrial Welfare Commission.
Save Mary Jane Veloso. Cesar and Celia Veloso, parents of Mary Jane Veloso appeals to President Duterte to help save Mary Jane in deathrow in Indonesia during the Free Mary Jane Veloso candle lighting event at Plaza Miranda in Quiapo, Manila on Thursday, September 8, 2016. Veloso was arrested and sentenced to death for smuggling heroin into Indonesia in 2010 Grig Montegrande/Inquirer.net
US convicts 2 Filipinos facing 20 years for dumping oil at sea SAN FRANCISCO – Two Filipino senior ship engineers face 20 years in prison after being found guilty of dumping pollutants at sea and attempting to hide the deed from US authorities. A federal jury in Greenville, North Carolina, convicted Oceanic Illsabe Limited, Oceanfleet Shipping Limited and two of their employees, senior engineering officers Rustico Ignacio and Cassius Samson, both Filipinos, of violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS), obstruction of justice, false statements, witness tampering and conspiracy, according a report by the Maritime Executive. Oceanic Illsabe Limited owns the M/V Ocean Hope, a large general cargo vessel that dumped tons of oily waste into the Pacific
Ocean last year. Oceanfleet Shipping Limited was the managing operator of the vessel. Both companies operate out of Greece. Oceanic and Oceanfleet were convicted of one count of conspiracy, one count of violating APPS, two counts of obstruction of justice, one count of false statements and four counts of witness tampering. Ignacio was convicted of one count of conspiracy, one count of violating APPS, one count of obstruction of justice and two counts of witness tampering. Samson was convicted of one count of conspiracy, one count of violating APPS, two counts of obstruction of justice, one count of false statements and three counts of witness tampering. The companies could be fined
M/V Ocean Hope dumped tons of oil and sludge in the ocean.
Photo by Vessel Finder
up to $500,000 per count, in addition to other possible penalties. Ignacio and Samson face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the obstruction of justice charges. In June 2015, M/V Ocean Hope discharged around ten metric tons of sludge into the ocean and also regularly pumped contaminated water overboard. None of these discharges were disclosed as required. Evidence showed that the companies knew that their ship had not unloaded any oil sludge at port since September 2014 and that it often did not use its oil-water separator. Second Engineer Samson instead ordered crewmembers to use a “magic pipe” to bypass the vessel’s oilwater separator and pump oil sludge directly into the ocean. Crewmembers also were ordered to dump oily water from the vessel’s bilges into the sea to several times a week. Chief Engineer Ignacio knew and approved of the dumping. The engineers also used a tank designated for oily wastes to store diesel fuel for sale on the black market. At the Port of Wilmington, North Carolina, the companies and the two engineers filed false oil reports to U.S. Coast Guard inspectors. The defendants ordered lower-level crewmembers to lie to Coast Guard personnel, when the dumping was discovered. (Inquirer.net)
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Dateline PPHhiliPPines to buy weapons from China, Russia
Duterte to stop joint patrols in disputed sea by Dana
M. SioSon
AJPress
THE Philippines will no longer conduct naval patrols in the South China Sea with foreign powers, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday, September 13. “We will not join any expedition or patrolling. I will not allow it because I do not want my country to be involved in a hostile act,” Duterte said in a speech during the 48th anniversary of the 250th Philippine Airlift Wing at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City. He commented that he wanted Filipino forces to only patrol Philippine territorial waters, or the 12 nautical miles of sea from Philippine coastlines that are considered sovereign territory
under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “We do not go into a patrol or join any other army from now because I do not want trouble,” the president pointed out. “I do not want to ride gung-ho style there with China or with America. I just want to patrol our territorial waters.” Duterte also reminded China of Hague’s ruling that concluded China has no legal basis in its territorial claims in the South China Sea, favoring the Philippines. “So may I remind China again: Beyond the territorial waters are the entitlements of the sea, yung napanalo natin (what we won) but it is not part of our territory. It is
part of our Exclusive Economic Zone,” the president said. “Territory is limited to the 12-mile limit. That is ours. Hanggang diyan lang tayo (Until that point),” he added. Duterte, however, did not provide further details in his security pronouncements. Last April 2016, the United States and the Philippines conducted a joint naval patrols in the South China Sea, several months after the Supreme Court upheld the PH-US Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said that these patrols “contribute to the safety and security of the region’s waters.”
‘Lawin’ app helps protect Cordillera wildlife BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – A mobile app developed by USAID and the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources is now helping protect wildlife in the highland Cordillera region. Environmental law enforcers already trained on the Landscape and Wildlife Information System (Lawin) app will help strengthen the Department of the Environemnt and Natural Resources’ forest protection efforts and will help prevent activity which contributes to environmental degradation, Ralph Pablo, an
enginner and DENR-Cordillera director, said. Forest guards, forest rangers, forest technicians and information systems analysts who serve as forest and biodiversity protection officers in the region were trained this month on how Lawin works and how it can used for patrolling, data management and law enforcement. Lawin was developed under USAID’s Biodiversity and Watersheds Improved for Stronger Economy and Ecosystem Resilience (B+WISER) Program.
“Like lawin (hawk), it observes its environment in forests and reacts to any activity or changes in it. It monitors the condition of conservation areas to be identified and registered in the app overtime,” USAID’s Felix Gaschick said. Lawin has two aspects, the collection of data and using the data in decision-making or for better environmental law enforcement. It has two components: Cybertracker, which is a multilingual open source of data, and Smart, which is a monitoring and reporting tool. (Philstar.com)
by Catherine
S. Valente
ManilaTimes
president Rodrigo Duterte
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said the Philippines is considering buying military equipment from China and Russia, vowing to modernize the Armed Forces to improve its capability to address insurgency and terrorism. Duterte signalled a desire for less dependence on military assistance from the United States before Philippine Air Force personnel at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on Tuesday evening, disclosing that possible deals with Russia and China were “in the pipeline” and that “offers are coming in.” Duterte said he had directed Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to join technical staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in visits to Russia and China to “see what is best.” “I am committed to your modernization and you will get it,” the President said. “The offers are coming in and I hope I would not disappoint anybody there.” The President said Russia and China had offered the Philippines soft loans for the purchase of military equipment. He did not say when the offers were made but Duterte met with Chinese and Russian officials last week in Laos during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summits. “Two countries have agreed to give me the softest loan. It will be payable in 2025,” Duterte said. The President said he told the two countries he preferred equipment that could be used to
fight insurgency and terrorism, particularly in Mindanao. “I told them I want weaponries and armaments, I don’t need jets, the F-16s, that’s of no use to us. We don’t intend to fight any country using that,” Duterte said. The Philippines has traditionally leaned on the United States, its long-time treaty ally, and other
Western countries for its security needs. The US had offered F-16 jets to the Philippines, and had provided two warships, Alcaraz and Del Pilar. But Duterte said he would rather have “propeller-driven planes” as well as “short-run bombers.” PAGE A7
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OpiniOn
To the President of the Philippines
Features
THE GLOBAL Commission on Drug Policy was born from the recognition that the prohibitionist and repressive “war on drugs,” which has persisted for the past 50 years, has failed. Drugs have always existed and have existed everywhere, and it is illusory to believe that their use can be eradicated completely, particularly through violent methods. Indeed, four members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy were heads of state (Brazil, Mexico, Poland and Portugal) when the United Nations approved in 1998 a 10-year strategy to create drug-free societies. Ten years later, however, drugs produced, trafficked and consumed were more available than when the decision was taken—and that upward trend has continued since. We now admit that a war on drugs will always prove unable to prevent drug supply and use in the long term, leading only to more pain and suffering. For example, the levels of supply of “shabu,” of particular concern in your country, appear to be equally high in Thailand and Malaysia as in the Philippines, despite repressive policies. In contrast, countries as diverse as New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Uruguay, Bolivia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and West African nations are now considering and even implementing alternatives, including laws regulating the use, possession and/or production of drugs, with marked success in harm and crime reduction. Even the
military regime in Thailand has recognized its failure to reduce drug trafficking, calling it “an unwinnable war.” Mr. President, we believe that your current strategy also constitutes an unwinnable war, at a terrible cost to your population. It is not a question of choosing between human rights and the safety of your people, as you have claimed, but the means employed to address crime must not result in further crimes against individuals whose conduct often causes very little harm. We acknowledge that your people are concerned with high crime and corrupt institutions; there is little evidence to show, however, that drugs represent the root of the widespread corruption and insecurity which your countrymen are concerned about. Repressive and punitive actions, based on the inhumane idea of sacrificing the lives of some to enhance the lives of the majority, are not only ineffective but also undermine the social fabric of your communities, with serious negative consequences: innocent victims killed on mere suspi-
Guest Editorial
Philstar.com photo
cion, orphaned children, fear of law enforcement and arbitrary justice even among law-abiding citizens, increased HIV transmission rates, and prison overcrowding. An effective drug policy is far more complex than you portray it, and should include investments in drug prevention and treatment, harm reduction, public health, socioeconomic development, criminal justice reform, as well as in secu-
rity. These measures will help address the root causes of drug use and trafficking, and not only respect the needs and rights of all individuals but will also be far more effective long-term than the brutal approach which you currently favor. — Fernando Cardoso, former president of Brazil; Louise Arbour, former high commissioner; and Sir Richard Branson, members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy (Inquirer.net)
Fil-Am group urges kababayans: Unite and support Duterte’s war vs drugs and criminality ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, Fil-Am group U.S. The Fil-Am Pinoys for Real Change (USPRC) held a prayer vig- Perspective il in front of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. to declare its support for Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s all out war against the Gel SantoS-ReloS drug pandemic in the Philippines, while making sure the Duterte administration follows the rule of law, due process and accountability. In my interview on The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” with Atty. Arnedo Valera, acting chairman of USPRC, I asked him if he believes the rule of law and due process was followed in the more than 2,400 drug-related fatalities since Duterte took office. Valera explained: “The president/PNP and the military were ordered to use force only in self-defense and shoot in self-defense. Generals and other police scalawags are being in-
vestigated and cases will be filed; Non-state actors referring to drug lords, pushers and vigilantes who are now engaged in summary executions among and between them to cover their bases are being arrested and prosecuted.” Valera asserted that the USPRC will also act as a watchdog, saying “to make sure that while we support the drug war to save our nation, especially women and children, we will continue to demand accounting of both undetermined deaths and deaths in the encounter and self-defense. Calling for the full support of the drug war is consistent [with our stand] that it should be done under the rule of law.” Valera is also a human rights advocate with strong ties with the United Nations. He affirmed, “As a human rights advocate, I will demand transparency and respect for these principles. Unlike extrajudicial
killings during the Marcos dictatorship to stifle legitimate dissent, killings today are perpetrated by drug lords, pushers and addicts, and of course deaths in self-defense . If there are evidence to the contrary, then the citizenry should be encouraged to come out and cooperate with the government.” He went on to urge kababayans to not presume that the PNP and the military are killers entirely. “If there are excesses, yes we should condemn them. The Rule of law and due process are non-negotiable and we gave specific demands on this, aside from supporting the peace talks, programs for food, jobs and justice etc.” Will you heed this call for unity and support for Duterte’s all-out war vs drugs? *** 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 AbSCbN-tFC. For comments, go to www.theFilAmperspective.com, https://www.facebook.
Mary Jane and our drug casualties
At Large
Rina Jimenez-DaviD WHEN you come to think of it, Mary Jane Veloso, who is still—as this is being written— held captive in an Indonesian jail even as she faces execution on drugs charges, has received better treatment at the hands of her captors than thousands of Filipinos suspected of being either drug pushers or users. Veloso was arrested in 2010 for carrying 2.6 kilos of heroin, an amount enough to prosecute her for criminal drug possession. She underwent a trial and was found guilty. She was scheduled for execution, along with several other foreigners, but was excluded from the list after the Philippine government assured that it had arrested and was investigating and filing charges against the “real” guilty parties who had deceived Veloso into acting as a drug courier. Although Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has launched a tough campaign against drug use in his country, it pales in comparison with the “war against drugs” that the Philippines’ President Duterte unleashed even before he took office. To date an estimated 3,000 suspects have been killed in police shoot-outs or in summary executions carried out by unknown and unidentified assassins. Thousands more have
surrendered to local authorities, although many of those who reported to their village chiefs have since ended up in the “kill list.” The stakes for Veloso rose to a dangerously high level recently when it was reported that Duterte, during a visit to Indonesia, had given Jokowi the “go ahead” for the execution of Veloso in accordance with Indonesian law. Jokowi was quoted by the Antara news agency as saying that “President Duterte has given the go-ahead to proceed with the execution.” He explained further that he told Duterte about Mary Jane’s situation “and I told him that Mary Jane [has been found guilty] for carrying 2.6 kilograms of heroin. I also told him about the delay in the execution during the meeting.” *** Malacañang has since, by turns, denied such a claim or backtracked on how the exchange really went. At first, Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay denied outright that Duterte and Jokowi had even discussed Veloso’s case. But when Jokowi himself confirmed their exchange, Duterte spokesperson Ernesto Abella issued a statement strongly denying that the President had consented to Veloso’s execution. “There was no endorsement,” said Abella. “He simply said: ‘Follow your own laws, I will not interfere.’” Well, I don’t know. It’s an extremely fine line between “I
will not interfere” and “giving the go-ahead.” If I recall right, there was a firestorm of angry comments and outright denunciations when reports reached the country about Veloso’s inclusion last year on a list of drug traffickers scheduled for execution by firing squad. Many, especially Veloso’s family members and leaders of groups working for overseas workers, denounced what they called the government’s “neglect” of Veloso’s case and failure to stop her execution. But in a face-to-face meeting, then President Aquino was described as “breaking proto-
col” when he directly appealed for a stay of execution on Veloso. Sure enough, Veloso was given a reprieve, even if she remained behind bars in Indonesia. But even that did not stop Aquino’s critics from harping on what they called P-Noy’s and Filipino diplomats’ neglect of Veloso. *** Before his meeting with Jokowi, Duterte told the media that he would plead for Veloso’s life, that she be spared the death penalty. But in the wake of reports that he failed to put his case for Veloso’s reprieve, if not freedom, more strongly before
the Indonesian leader, Duterte seems to be taking a less trenchant stance, softening his previously pugnacious approach to most issues. Now his spokesperson is saying that there is still no need to plead for clemency for Veloso since she “is still not scheduled for execution.” Imagine if this had been said under any other president. The comments, especially on social media, would have been scathing. But in the wake of the seeming complacency of Filipino officialdom towards Veloso’s fate, public reaction seems to be strangely muted in turn. Social media posts from Fili-
pinos even seemed to turn the tables on Veloso, saying that, as a drug mule, she deserved her imprisonment and imminent execution. Perhaps these are the same folks who excoriate the “bleeding hearts” among us for raising human rights concerns about the thousands of extrajudicial killings and warrantless arrests. And if they see nothing wrong with the relentless series of killings and the climate of fear being created around the issue of drugs, then how could they be expected to feel a bit of compassion for an accused drug mule like Veloso? *** How could we, as a nation, have felt the stirrings of compassion for Veloso, the mother of two, just a few months ago, and now see her imminent fate as one she fully deserves for supposedly knowingly transporting drugs? Is it because eliminating the drugs problem has suddenly been elevated to a priority for governance, a problem that obliterates entirely all the other social, economic and political issues we face? If so, then let’s stop all pretense and tell Veloso that sorry, we may feel bad about your continued stay in an Indonesian jail and the possibility of death by firing squad, but you know, we’ve got problems of our own and bigger fish to fry in our quest for—what?—the peace and quiet of the dead and complicit?
the views expressed by our Op-ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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Expenses for Marcos burial ‘minimal,’ DND chief tells House panel by Marc Jayson
cayabyab
Inquirer.net
manny pacquiao reacts during his fight with Floyd mayweather Jr. at the mGm Grand in Las Vegas last year.
Pacquiao says Mayweather rematch ‘very exciting’
MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao again stressed that he wants another crack at Floyd Mayweather Jr. That is, if there’s clamor from boxing fans. “I can still fight at 140-147. I’m willing to fight anybody,” Pacquiao recently told Omnisport. The Filipino icon is set to fight Jessie Vargas on November 5, eyeing no less than a victory, which perhaps will convince the retired
Mayweather to fight again. Pacquiao came up short against Mayweather in what turned out to be the riches fight in boxing history. Although the bout was a commercial success, it was a critical failure as Mayweather was content to outbox an injured Pacquiao on his way to a unanimous decision win. Pacquiao fought on a bum shoulder, and many in his camp believe the Filipino would’ve fared better had he been healthy.
Mayweather, however, already retired from the sport and so far plans on staying retired. But Pacquiao stressed he’s open to a rematch with the undefeated American, saying it will be an exciting affair. “If [Mayweather] wants and the fans want to have that fight again, then why not? That can be a very exciting fight. There’s no reason why [it cannot happen],” he said. (Philstar.com)
PH to buy weapons from China... PAGE A5 In his speech, he said he would only allow the “government-togovernment” purchase of equipment and deals, with “no strings attached.” The country has no defense agreements with Russia and China. The latter is in the middle of a maritime dispute with the Philippines over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). No more joint patrols Amid the sea dispute, the President announced that the Philippines will no longer join expeditions and patrols with the US and other countries to avoid getting into conflict with other nations. “We will not join any expedition of patrolling the seas. I will not allow it because I do not want my country to be involved in a hostile act,” he said. “The point is I do not want to ride gung-ho style there with China or with America… We do not
go into a patrol or join any other army from now because I do not want trouble,” Duterte added. Duterte admitted this could be misconstrued as cutting military alliances with other countries, but the President said he was merely pursuing a more “independent posture, an independent foreign policy.” “I am not anti-American. I said, we are not severing our ties, military ties … Who am I to abrogate a treaty?” he said. Deep impact Reacting to Duterte’s statements, former Philippine ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia warned that the President’s tirades could have a “deep impact if it continues in the next few years.” Cuisia also said equipment from other nations such as Russia and China should be compatible with US equipment. “If Duterte wants to buy military equipment from China and
Russia, he should think about interoperability with US equipment,” Cuisia said. “We should keep in mind that the US has been a valuable partner of the Philippines. They provided us cutter [ships], radio equipment to allow better monitoring in the West Philippine Sea. We also have many [workers]in the US,” he added. Cuisia disagreed with Duterte that joint maritime patrols are a hostile act. “Many countries do joint patrols,” he said. The former ambassador also criticized Duterte for calling for the removal of US Special Forces in Mindanao, claiming these troops help the AFP in its intensified operations against the Abu Sayyaf terror and kidnapping group. “You have to keep in mind that it’s these US troops who help the military go after the Abu Sayyaf,” Cuisia said.
DEFENSE Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday told the House of Representatives that the government would only spend minimal expenses for the burial of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. During the House appropriations committee hearing on the P178.2- billion proposed budget of the Department of National Defense(DND) for next year, Lorenzana was asked by Kabataan Rep. Sarah Elago how much the government plans to spend for the transfer of Marcos’ remains to heroes’ cemetery. Lorenzana had released a memorandum addressed to Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, General Ricardo Visaya, to make the necessary preparations and “coordinate closely with the Marcos family regarding the date of interment and the transport of the late former president’s remains from Ilocos Norte to the (Libingan ng mgaBayani).” Lorenzana said the expenses would be minimal, covering merely the expenses of ceremonial rites. He added that the transportation costs of Marcos to the Libingan ng mga Bayani from Batac, Ilocos Norte would be shouldered by the Marcos family. “I think it will be purely minimal… We won’t spend anything, even the transportation of the remains of the late president Marcos, which will be shouldered by the family,” Lorenzana said. Elago said the government
Former philippine first lady and now congresswoman, Imelda marcos, kisses the glass case of her late husband president Ferdinand marcos during a visit to the mausoleum on her 85th birthday in batac town, Ilocos norte, north of manila on July 2, 2014. president Aquino has not changed his mind about disallowing the burial of the late president Ferdinand marcos among heroes at Libingan ng mga bayani, malacañang said on Sunday, the 42nd anniversary
should not spend a single centavo for the burial of Marcos, the longtime dictator who imposed martial law that resulted in numerous human rights violations and enforced disappearances. “Kaya nagtanong ako tungkol rito dahil naninindigan kami na ni piso ay hindi dapat gastusin para sa isang diktador na napakaraming crimes and excesses sa taumbayan,” Elago said. President Rodrigo Duterte has given the go-signal for Marcos’ heroes burial, fulfilling his campaign promise of putting an end to the issue that had divided the country. Duterte said Marcos is qualified to be buried there as a former president and soldier. He also said he once voted for Marcos, and that his father worked for Marcos’ Cabinet. But Marcos’ heroes burial was questioned by martial law victims before the Supreme Court, which issued a status quo ante order stop-
ping the burial originally scheduled for September 18 in lieu of a two-day oral argument. The status quo ante order was extended until Oct. 18 to allow the justices to make a decision based on the merits of the case. Among the lead petitioners against the Marcos burial was Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, who claimed the Marcos’ family waived the late strongman’s right to be given a hero’s burial due to an agreement with then president Fidel Ramos in 1992 to bury Marcos in his hometown Batac, Ilocos Norte beside his mother’s grave, and not at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The conditions were: Marcos’ body would be flown straight from Hawaii from exile to Ilocos Norte; Marcos would be given honors befitting a major, his last rank in the Armed Forces of the Philippines; Marcos’ body would not be paraded in Metro Manila; there would be no burial at Libingan ng mga Bayani.
tIGHtER SECURItY. Davao City’s public Safety and Security Command Center (pSSCC) recently partnered with the International Criminal police Organization (Interpol) to tighten the city’s security. pSSCC chief benito De Leon, a retired general, said the partnership is expected to increase the intelligence monitoring of lawless
A
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VEGAS&STYLE Journal The auTomobile:
a symbol of innovation By Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
In just over a century, the automotive industry has accelerated, making it one of the most evolutionary industries. The nature of the car industry is that it’s always evolving and improving on its latest innovation. When the automobile was first introduced, the world changed, ushering a new era of modernity. How did it begin? The concept of the automobile was born from French and German designers. Inventor Karl Benz of Germany invented a threewheeled “Motorwagen.” Then in 1901, engineers Wilhelm Maybach and Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft designed the Mercedes which was the first modern motor car with all the fixings, including an lightweight 35-horsepower engine that performed a speed of 53 mph. But it was the Americans who perfected the industry as a whole. Bicycle mechanics J. Frank and Charles E. Duryea designed the first successful gasoline automobile in 1893. By 1899, 30 American manufacturers produced 2,500 cars. Come the 20th century, there were more than 485 U.S. companies entering into the booming industry. Americans were also the first to introduce the car dealership. In 1896 in Detroit — which would be known as the birthplace of the automobile industry — William Metzger established the first independent car dealership.
the mercedes, the first modern car designed by Wilhelm maybach and Daimler motoren Gesellschaft in 1901. photo from www.mercedesbenz.
Engineers Wilhelm maybach and Daimler motoren Gesellschaft photo from www.autowallpaper.de
Then the tide shifted which not only propelled the car industry, but modern invention as a whole. In 1913, the assembly line — developed by Model T inventor Henry Ford — allowed for mass production and became a standard in manufacturing. Cars became more affordable and more widely acces-
sible, and American manufacturers produced about 485,000 of the more than 606,000 automobiles made in 1913. “One hundred years ago, my great-grandfather had a vision to build safe and efficient transportation for everyone,” Ford Executive PAGE B4
Being on the right side of the road: Tips on how to buy a car YOUr vehicle is one of the most important purchases you will do in your life, but it doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are some tips that not only help make the process quicker and stress-free, but can also save you a few bucks. • Know your vehicle needs. not sure what car you want yet?
First your have to determine why you need a car and what are you going to use it for. Weighing factors like low mileage and high fuel efficiency over style, brand and model features will help you decide the car you want to buy. • Determine your budget. Get approved for a car loan. Ask
around about financing and go over your monthly expenditures and income. These will be important so you know the maximum amount of money you can spend on a car. • Go “window” shopping.” Do your research — go online, get PAGE B2
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B September 15-21, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
Being on the right side of the road: Tips on how to... PAGE B1 a Kelley Blue Book, or test drive cars at dealerships to be able to get a “feel” of different models, makes, and years of cars. This will not only help you learn about the specific car you are eyeing, but can also change your mind about other car brands. • Search through car listings online. Whether you are looking to buy a new vehicle or a used one, the Internet is there for you to take advantage of. Look through car listings on websites to compare prices and features, like warranties, vehicle histories, condition, and mileage. • Don’t purchase the add-ons.
Buying a new car is a major purchase, and you may be paying it off over the next several years. If you finance the car, the overall costs for accessories will skyrocket, so keep the add-ons to a minimum. You don’t really need heated seats, and you can buy a portable GPS navigation unit online for much less than expensive built-in systems. Rustproofing is another add-on you don’t need despite what the salesperson might tell you. VIN etching, a rear camera, and a dealership maintenance plan are more add-ons that you don’t really need. • Negotiate. While most people perceive negotiating for a
new car as an extremely difficult experience, if you look at it purely from a negotiator’s perspective, you find something quite surprising. Negotiating for a new car is actually simpler than almost any other negotiation that you will ever undertake. You will be able to get the best deals on price, features and warranties since you’ve done your research. • Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Whether you are buying the traditional way or online, always make sure that you understand every aspect of the process. This way, you won’t get stuck with a vehicle that you don’t want. (AJPress)
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Coco Zhang-Miske: How a former dancer made her mark in the car industry Global technology planning manager for Buick, GMC and GM China Strategy at General Motors
By Christina
GRoWING up in Chongqing, China, Coco Zhang-Miske thought she would have a professional career in dancing. Her early training in gymnastics — beginning at the age of 6 — soon segued into the art of dance years later. From there, she moved to Beijing to study classic Chinese dance at the Beijing Dance Academy and was an operatic dancer with the China operatic Dance Troupe. When she migrated to the United States, she continued dancing by teaching lessons at studios owned by friends. However, a point came when she realized she was meant to pursue something else. She jumped into fashion design during her first year at Michigan State University because it was related to her background in arts. But, she found herself attracted to math and science, and changed her major to mathematics. “When I started [college], one of my professors called me into the office within the first month because I only learned math and science to an extent in China because I was dancing. I was struggling during the first month or two of college. It was overwhelming having all those technical terms in English. I had a very difficult time,” Zhang-Miske told the Asian Journal in a recent interview. “He asked, ‘are you sure you want to do this?’ and I knew this is what I wanted to do.” From mathematics, she eventually changed her major to electrical engineering. Despite her lack of practical knowledge in the field, she showed up to an engineering job fair with her résumé — filled with art and dance jobs — in tow anyway. Most
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buick Cascada
Coco Zhang-miske at the Asian American Journalists Association conference with a buick Cascada in the background
of the companies did not give her the chance to explain her background or they told her to come back the following year after she gained more experience. However, one pivotal conversation with an engineer from General Motors (GM) changed the course of her future. “He was very curious about why I changed from dancing to engineering. He was fascinated with my background and saw my potential. He ended up offering me an internship, which was very exciting, especially being a first-year student with no background,” she said, describing her first internship in the manufacturing controls department. The following summer, she was offered another manufacturing internship at the vehicle corporation. Her performance as an intern was impressive enough that when she graduated from college, she was immediately hired as a manufacturing controls engineer, a position she held for three years before transitioning as a design release engineer.
While working, she was also able to receive a master’s degree in energy systems engineering at the University of Michigan, which exposed her to the world of alternative fuel and energy and electric vehicles and gave her the knowledge to move to the global hybrid battery system engineering department. “I’ve been very fortunate during my time at GM because the company gave me the opportunity to experience completely different divisions,” she said. Today, Zhang-Miske marks her ninth year at GM and is currently the global technology planning manager for Buick (one of the company’s brands), GMC and GM China strategy. Under this position, she manages the technology strategy for the brands and develops ideas based on technology intelligence and trends. The achievements in her role have garnered accolades, including a 2014 Crain’s Detroit Business 40 under 40 award and a place on Detroit TechWeek100’s list in 2015. She also gets to do a lot of traveling: to China several times a year to promote the brand and ensure that the products made in that country are of equal quality and performance to those manufactured in the U.S.; and to California to meet with suppliers and the research & development team to discuss new technologies. PAGE B3
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Tears for John Lloyd, cheers for Charo Ma’ Rosa aims for 2017 Oscars by Bayani
San Diego Inquirer.net
While lav Diaz was delivering his speech at the 73rd Venice international Film Festival on Saturday in italy, the camera caught lead actor John lloyd Cruz weeping unabashedly. Diaz had just won the Golden lion, the highest honor in the world’s oldest film festival, for “Ang Babaeng humayo,” which topbills Cruz and Charo Santos. Cruz explained why he was so moved by the acclaimed director’s speech. “i simply cannot tell you in words what really happened that night,” he told the inquirer. “it was history unfolding right before my eyes. i couldn’t be more proud of lav. he delivered the most beautiful speech at the ceremony. it was for all the struggles of Filipinos!” That made him cry, he admitted. “That moment encapsulated lav’s role in our beloved cinema,” he pointed out. “That moment depicted the reality of our cinema today. i feel deeply privileged to be part of Philippine cinema’s journey and history.” in a previous interview, the box-office star told the inquirer that his career wouldn’t be complete if he didn’t get to reunite with the revered filmmaker. At the time, he had just finished work on the eight-hour historical epic, “hele sa hiwagang hapis,” which eventually won the Silver Bear Alfred Bauer Prize at the Berlinale in February. “i want to make another film with lav—this time, set in contemporary Philippines,” Cruz remarked. That was why he didn’t think twice about accepting “humayo,” no matter how challenging and out of the box the role was. in “humayo,” he portrays hollanda, an epileptic transgender who’s abused by a benefactor. The gambit paid off for the actor who had made his mark as the fair-haired hero in hit romantic-comedies. he merited good reviews for “humayo” and was reportedly a frontrunner in the acting derby, along with Santos, in Venice. Variety critic Guy lodge tweeted that Santos should’ve won over best actress emma Stone, who bagged the trophy for Damien Chazelle’s screen
by Ricky Lo Philstar.com
hungary. Because of Mendoza’s reputation in the film world as the Philippine director to watch (together with lav Diaz whose film, Ang Babaeng humayo [The Woman Who left], won Golden lion Best Film at the just-concluded Venice international Film festival, another “first” for the Philippines), Ma’Rosa has a good chance of catching the attention of the 500 members who vote for the Best Foreign language Film category. AMPAS (Association of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences), the body that votes for the winners in
the annual Academy Awards, has 5,000 voting members including former actress Dolores hart who quit showbiz and became a nun (she is given DVD copies of the films for review). Although several Filipino films have been submitted as entries to the Best Foreign language Film category, three of them by director Gil M. Portes (Saranggola, Mga Munting Tinig and Gatas sa Dibdib ng Kaaway), not one has made it to the Magic Five finalists. Will Ma’Rosa finally break the dry spell?
MANilA, Philippines – Will Ma’ Rosa, for which Jaclyn Jose won for the Philippines its first Best Actress award at the Cannes international Film Festival (CiFF), duplicate that record by bringing home the country’s first major Oscars? it’s a probability, considering that its director, Brillante “Dante” Mendoza, also won the country’s first Best Director award at Cannes – for Kinatay several years ago. The Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), the body designated to submit a nominee to the Best Foreign language Film category of the Oscars, announced yesterday that Ma’Rosa was chosen out of eight shortlisted local films as the country’s official entry to next year’s Oscars. “At last i am recognized after Charo Santos, Lav Diaz (center) and John Lloyd Cruz at the press con 10 years,” Mendoza told The STAR. obstacles along the way.” musical, “la la land.” Ma’Rosa was distributed in he exclaimed: “Cinema is a vilodge added that “humayo” is a shoo-in for the Academy tal part of our society. it isn’t just the international market by Film Awards: “Oscar buzz for Diaz entertainment. Cinema should be Distribution, the same company has gone through the roof in the regarded as one of the strongest behind Son of Saul which bagged pillars of Filipino culture and last year’s Oscar for Best Foreign last hour.” At the victory party, guests society. Mabuhay ka, lav, for language Film representing Jaclyn Jose in a scene from brillante mendoza film ma’Rosa flocked around Diaz, Santos and defining and elevating PhilipCruz for snapshots—including pine cinema. i am fortunate to jurors Joshua Oppenheimer, be living inside your profound Nina hoss and Chiara Mastroi- evolution.” Santos said, “My only motiva- PAGE B2 anni. four years with the progression of By sponsoring events like Asian Santos got to chat with Oscar- tion in making this film is to work culture festivals and the Asian “Right now GM is a big global electric vehicles,” she said. winning filmmaker Sam Mendes, with lav. i wanted to understand company. A lot of car parts are She added that car sharing, es- American Journalists Association who was president of the Venice his aesthetics. i have so much manufactured in the U.S. and we pecially in China, will also continue (AAJA) and NAAAP conferences, jury. At an earlier event, she had faith in his immense talent.” do a lot of collaboration overseas. to be a widespread transportation it shows how GM is committed to Costar Shamaine Buencamino even though cars are built in Chi- method to ease traffic and improve reaching out to the Asian Amerithe chance to see Oscar best actress Natalie Portman on the told the inquirer: “i am proud of na, it is important that since we are air quality. can community, Zhang-Miske lav, his team and the cast. i’ve under one big global umbrella, all red carpet. As an Asian American woman, said. Santos and Cruz were treated always believed that Filipino art- of those manufacturing processes Zhang-Miske said she was quickly “Through those organizations, like hollywood A-listers on the ists are world-class.” embraced by the GM culture from we do a lot of seminars, community are similar,” she said. Postscript: Quick on the heels lido, where the paparazzi kept outreach and diversity initiatives According to a Washington Post the get-go. chanting their names. A vid- of Venice, Santos proceeded to report earlier this year, Buick sold “ever since day one, i’ve been to introduce the Asian culture and eographer captured a Kodak the Toronto international Film 1.2 million vehicles around the comfortable. i really like people connect them to the local GM stratmoment when Cruz and Santos Festival, where “humayo” will world in 2015, with 80 percent — i like to meet and interact with egy,” she said. “Unfortunately a lot broke protocol and approached be screened, along with Brillante being sold in China. The envision, them and ask questions. They of people in the Asian community the Filipinos waiting behind the Ma. Mendoza’s “Ma’ Rosa” and which is Chinese-made, has par- haven’t looked at me different are not familiar with American vebarrier. A Pinoy fan gave Cruz a Raymund Gutierrez’s short film ticularly been a successful model. because i’m female and Asian. hicles. They are more experienced “imago.” The Toronto fest is onhomemade poster. With cars these days being Sometimes, i struggle with the and have a mindset about Asian Cruz recalled the Venice ex- going in Canada until Sept. 18. more and more innovative, Zhang- english language because of my and european models. We are tryAs for Diaz, he will head to Miske noted that it makes her job accent, but everyone has been ing our best to introduce to them a perience vividly: “it has inspired me to dream even higher. My Boston for the Radcliffe Fellow- even more thrilling. (She even gets patient,” she said. new side of GM products. We give dream is for Philippine cinema ship at harvard University. Another positive aspect of her the audience the opportunity to to own a new car every six months “i will stay in Boston for eight to test it out.) to be united by sheer talent and role at GM is how she’s been able check out vehicles, ask questions months—from September 2016 conviction.” “i’m very excited about the to share her culture. her experi- and drive our vehicles.” Although he is a commercially to May 2017,” Diaz said. As for advice for Asian Amerifuture of the vehicle. Right now, ences include past president of Ronald Arguelles told the in- people are [embracing] autono- GM’s Chinese employee Resource can professionals, she said to not successful star, Cruz asserted: “Cinema should not be celebrat- quirer that “humayo” will open in mous vehicles and electric ve- Group, board member of the be afraid and limit oneself. ed based on how many people local cinemas tentatively on Sept. hicles. A few years ago, people Detroit Chinese engineers Asso“in Asian culture, it’s a habit got to see your film.” it should be 23—to make it eligible for the were concerned about electric ciation and founder of Michigan’s to hold back. Ask questions and judged, he said, in terms of “its Oscar best foreign language film vehicles, whether they’d run out first National Association of Asian don’t hold back,” she shared. influence and impact on society race and to make fine use of the of battery or how to charge them. American Professionals (NAAAP) “Trust yourself and believe in as a whole, and how it overcame buzz generated by Venice. yourself.” it was only a matter of three to chapter.
Coco Zhang-Miske: How a former dancer...
Features
B September 15-21, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
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Pinay wows ‘X-Factor UK’ judges ABS-CBN on Kris Aquino: She will always be a Kapamilya with powerful performance MANILA, Philippines — “Oh my God! What just happened there?!” Simon Cowell who was obviously astonished quips after listening to Ivy Grace Paredes’ audition song. Paredes, a Filipino who hails from Malaybalay, Bukidnon went for an audition on “X-Factor UK” on September 11. With only less three minutes to impress the judges, Paredes went all in and did her own rendition of Whitney Houston’s “All the Man I Need.” Her performance was quickly applauded by the judges. Asked why she decided to do the auditions, Paredes said: “For me, I believe this is the biggest competition and I want to be a part of it. X Factor can give me the stepping stones I need to do good in the future because this is all for my daughter.” Paredes is the latest Filipino to step on the “X-Factor UK” stage. A report from Digital Spy said Paredes was inspired by 4th Impact, a Filipino girl group that finished fifth place in the last season of the reality talent search. (Philstar.com)
journey.” On a series of Instagram post, Kris thanked the network which served as her home for more than 20 years. She revealed she was not given a guaranteed slot when she returned from her recent hiatus in showbiz. “We spoke in July but there was no definite show (and) no assured time frame of my return on air. I perfectly understood—as much as I wanted to believe I was a pillar of the network, everybody is dispensable. And I say that with
PAGE B1 Chairman Bill Ford said. “I am proud he was able to bring the freedom of mobility to millions by making cars affordable to families and that his vision of serving people still drives everything we do today.” A focus on safety Although its history is brief, the automobile industry has seen exponential advancements with a strong emphasis on improving safety features. In the 1940s, inventor Samuel W. Alderson invented the crash test dummy which allowed car manufacturers test the reliability of safety equipment and protocol. Then in the 1950s, Swedish engineer Nils Bohlin invented the three-point safety belt which would become the modern standard of automobile safety belts. First introduced in Volvo’s automobiles, the Y-shaped design was considered revolutionary and responsible for saving many lives. In the 1960s, manufacturers started seeing the value and necessity in safety belts. In 1964, the Studebaker-Packard Corporation became the first company to introduce seat belts as a standard in all of its cars. Four years later, Allen Breed introduced the world’s first electromechanical automotive airbag system with his “sensor and safety system.” In 1973, General Motors would be the first company to include the passenger airbag as a standard in their commercial automobiles. Asian manufacturers emerge For a while, American car companies were seen as the leaders in the industry, but manufacturers in the Far East were making big moves. Toyota and Nissan were
toe-to-toe in Japan’s domestic market, but both companies would be favorites in the U.S. by the 1990s. Americans saw Japanese cars as more valuable as they tended to last longer and were more reliable. By 2000, Japan became the largest nation to produce cars, but saw competition from South Korea, China and India throughout the decade. However, when the recession hit in 2008 and the American automobile industry took a major toll, Toyota surpassed General Motors to become the world’s largest manufacturer. Ushering in the green car Environmentally conscious vehicles date back to the 1800s, but the gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle was perfected in the 21st century. Interest in hybrid cars jumped in 2008 as consumers began choosing cars that consume less fuel and contribute less to the pollution. Typically, hybrid cars have at least two power sources: standard fuel and an electric motor that recharges. Toyota makes a wide range of hybrid cars including the Yaris, Camry Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid and the ever-popular Prius. Other hybrid cars include the Ford Escape, Chevrolet Vault and Lexus RX 400h. Now on the rise are electric cars, which are propelled by one or more electric motor that uses energy from rechargeable batteries or other devices that store energy. As of December 2015, there are more than 30 models of all-electric cars available at retail, but with the industry’s propensity to change, they may soon be the standard. “I’ve actually made a prediction that within 30 years, a majority of new cars made in the United
no bitterness - just HONESTY,” her post read. The “queen of all media” said she is slated for a TV program courtesy of APT Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of TAPE Inc., which is Eat Bulaga’s producer. (Philstar.com)
The automobile: A symbol of innovation
Screengrab from Youtube.com
Bongbong Marcos walks Isabelle Daza down the aisle by
Rosette Adel Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Saturday walked Isabelle “Belle” Daza down the aisle on her wedding day in Tuscany, Italy. Contrary to speculations that she will be walking down the aisle with her mother, 1969 Miss Universe Gloria Diaz, Belle, was escorted by her godfather, Marcos. Marcos took the place of the late businessman and former Makati City Councilor Bong Daza, who passed away last July. Marcos and Bong were good friends. “In place of my good friend the late Bong Daza, the bride asked me to walk her down the aisle,” Marcos said in his Facebook account. Marcos also expressed his best wishes to the newlyweds, Belle and Adrien Semblat, on social media. Belle and Adrien tied the knot Isabella “belle” Daza was escorted by her godfather, former Sen. Ferdinand in St. Francis Parish in Lucignano, “bongbong” marcos Jr as she walked down the aisle on her wedding day. Tuscany, Italy.
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MANILA, Philippines - ABSCBN has released a statement regarding Kris Aquino’s departure from the network. Hours after Kris confirmed her exit on Instagram, Kane Errol Choa, head of ABS-CBN Corporate Communications released a statement via ABS-CBN News. “We thank Kris for the many years that she has been a Kapamilya bringing joy, hope, and inspiration to our viewers worldwide. She will always be a Kapamilya and we wish her well in her new
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Industrialist Henry Ford, founder of Ford motor Company, developed the first assembly line. photo from
States will be electric. And I don’t mean hybrid. I mean fully electric,” said Elon Musk, CEO and product architect of Tesla Motors, a leading manufacturer of energy storage and electric automobiles. More than just transportation As cars evolved, their use as a status symbol became just as important as its function as a means of transportation. As more and more brands became available, one’s car became an extension of his or her socioeconomic status and personality. What you drive says a lot about you, much like the music you listen to or the clothes you wear. If you’re cruising down the road in a luxury car like a Rolls-Royce or a Cadillac, you’re perceived to belong on the upper echelon of society. If you drive a Toyota Prius or any other hybrid vehicle, you are seen as a more environmentally conscious person. The automobile industry today PAGE B5
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Exciting new opportunity to enter the Calendar of Events across America U.S.: The “International Entrepreneur Rule” Your Immigration Solution atty. Devin Connolly & nanCy Miller It is well known that there are limited ways of lawfully residing in the U.S. It is most commonly allowed on the basis of family relationships or on the foreign national possessing certain employment stills. this has been relatively constant over the years. However, it appears that there is a new way for people to potentially reside in the U.S. with valid immigration status. the Department of Homeland Security has proposed the “International Entrepreneur Rule.” this rule would allow foreign nationals to be paroled into the U.S. if they can demonstrate that their entry to the U.S. would provide a significant public benefit due to their role as an entrepreneur of a start-up entity. the Department of Homeland Security estimates that perhaps as many as 3,000 people per year may be eligible for parole into the U.S. under this program. As with all applications for entry into the U.S., there are several requirements that applicants must meet to be eligible under this program. First, they must show that they are a sufficient “entrepreneur.” An “entrepreneur” is defined as someone that possesses a substantial ownership interested in a start-up entity and has a central and active role in the operations of that entity. they cannot be simply a passive
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS Acid reducers and their side effects Preliminary studies suspect Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) and H2 Blockers, which reduce the secretion of stomach acid used by millions to treat gastroesophageal reflux “heartburns,” may also have adverse effects on the kidneys when used regularly. Presently known side-effects of PPI and the H2 Blocker drugs, popular before the PPI came to the market, include: C. difficile GI infection; PPI-associated pneumonia, especially in the elderly; vitamin B-12 deficiency and poor calcium absorption leading to fractures. Consult a physician before taking any medications, even over-the-counter, non-prescription drugs. Shaving calories A good strategy for reducing calories is by substitution or swapping: drinking an 8-oz bottle of water instead of a can or bottle of regular soft drinks saves you at least 100 calories; chicken sandwich instead of hamburger, 290 calories; one teaspoon mustard instead of mayo, 100 calories; apples slices instead of French fries, 270 calories; swap chocolate ice cream with strawberry slices, 115 calories; mixed salad with low-fat dressing instead of pizza saves you 2 slices about 300 calories; and one bagel replaced by c slices light whole grain bread, 269 calories; high fiber cereal instead of granola, 110 calories. Brown rice is certainly healthier than white rice and cutting the amount of rice (and other carbs, sweets especially) by at least half will reduce not only weight but the risk for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Flu and humidity While flu vaccines and the healthy habit of frequent hand washing significantly reduces the risk of catching influenza, humidity also plays a very important role in warding off this virus infection during the flu season. Studies have shown that in dry environment 80 percent of the flu virus survived, while only 10 percent
investor. In addition, the underlying business must also meet the definition of “start-up entity.” this has been defined as a U.S. business entity that was formed under federal or state law, was formed within the 3 years immediately preceding the filing of the application for parole, etc. It is also required that the business have substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation. the Department of Homeland Security will also look closely at the money that has been invested in the start-up entity. It is required that the business has received a qualified investment of at least $345,000 from one or more qualified investors in the 365 days prior to filing the application for parole into the U.S. Alternatively, the business may have also received at least $100,000 through a qualified government award or grant in the 365 days prior to filing the application for parole into the U.S. A “qualified investment” is an investment made in good faith that is a purchase from the startup entity of equity or convertible debt. A “qualified investor” is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or perhaps an organization, that has made sufficient investments of at least $1,000,000 over the last five years, and has also created full-time jobs or generated substantial revenue for the start-up entity. When submitting an application for parole under this program, an applicant must be sure to clearly demonstrate their eligibility for parole. Issues to be addressed include evidence of capital investments from qualified investors; proof of the start-
up entity’s goods or services; the applicant’s knowledge, skills or experience that justifies their active role in the operations of the entity; and evidence that the entity has experience sufficient revenue and growth. the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service will weigh all submitted evidence and then make a discretionary decision on whether to grant the applicant parole into the U.S. If granted, the applicant will be paroled into the U.S. for up to 2 years. this initial grant of parole may also be extended beyond 2 years by applying for re-parole. Applicants will also be permitted to leave the U.S. during their parole period and thereafter return to continue their residence in the U.S. Finally, a person’s spouse and children may also apply for parole into the U.S. this is an exciting new opportunity for certain foreign entrepreneurs. It is clearly a complex process, but all of the hard work will be worth it for the opportunity to reside in the U.S. Be sure to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney to maximize your chances for success. *** Reeves, miller, Zhang & Diza Law Corporation’s offices are located in pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and makati City. telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** the analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case.
Healthful tips did in a well-humidified environment. A home or room humidifier when the atmosphere is dry will certainly help in preventing the spread of flu and making us breathe more comfortably. Electromagnetic risks At what dose of repeated radiation exposure from medical imaging diagnostic devices, natural or artificial sunbathing, microwave oven, cell phone signals, radiofrequency (radio-tV) signals, extremely low-frequency power lines (said to be associated with childhood leukemia) can cause various forms of illnesses, including cancer, is still controversial. But we cannot simply ignore the warnings. In this current situation, the wise and prudent strategy is to minimize exposure to any of these electromagnetic forces as much as we can as we take advantage of the benefits provided by these advances in science and technology. Let’s just be more conscious and careful. cellphone warnings Electrical Hypersensitivity Syndrome is truly a medical condition, characterized by fatigue, dizziness, tinnitus, facial rash, digestive symptoms, following “exposure to visual display units, mobile phones, Wi-Fi equipment, and commonplace appliances, affecting about 3 percent of all people and about 33 percent of us to a lesser extent.” Cordless phones and mobile phones emit the same amount of radiation, while landline phones don’t. Use of speakerphone for cordless and mobile phones, or a hollow (preferred) wired (hands-free) earpiece is safer. Never use Bluetooth wireless headset, which is a worse emitter. texting is safer than calling with the handset against your ear. If possible the cellphone should not be carried close to the body; if not, then the battery should be facing away from the body since this acts as the antenna, the dial pad facing the body. If not using a hands-free device, switching from one ear to the other every 15 seconds or so is a good practice. As much as possible do not use a cellphone in elevators or closed spaces, since the weak signal will make the phone maximize its signal strength (and radiation!). Children should NOt use cellphones ex-
cept for emergencies, since they are more vulnerable to the effects of radiation. Exercise wonders the amazing wonders of physical exercise are scientifically proven to keep the body and mind healthy, strengthen the immune system, improve cardiovascular fitness and reduces heart attacks by 33 percent, lessen the risk of the development of type 2 diabetes by 91 percent, prevent, if not minimize high blood pressure by more than a third and reduces the risk for cancer -- all these for doing 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week. tai Chi, tai Bo, dancing at any speed, walking (moderate to brisk), swimming, bicycling, or any aerobic exercise. there is no age limit to doing exercises. My mother, who is 97, did daily 2-mile exercise (at a moderated pace) following the Leslie Sansone’s DVD aerobic exercise program until she was 93. And she feels great for her age. Besides a proper diet, abstinence from smoking and moderation in alcohol intake (red wine preferred), exercise is a major key to health and longevity. Pistachio lowers cholesterol Studies at the Pennsylvania State University shows that pistachio nuts with its monounsaturated fatty acids and high antioxidant content have beneficial effects on cholesterol, body mass index (for weight reduction) and for hypertension control. With as little as 1.5 ounces of pistachios a day for one month, cholesterol levels were reduced by 8.4 percent and the low density (bad) lipoprotein by 11.6 percent. Monounsaturated fats, as in pistachio nuts and green leafy vegetables, are cardio-protective and lessen the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke. *** 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 –
The automobile: A symbol of innovation
Elon musk, CEO and product architect of tesla motors, predicted that within 30 years, majority of new cars made in the U.S. will be electric. photo
PAGE B4 and tomorrow today, the automobile industry is more expansive and innovative than ever. Drivers may enjoy the convenience of a sensible used toyota Camry or splurge on a brand new tesla Model 3. the options for automobiles are endless and every driver is bound to find a set of wheels suited to their unique needs. Due to its innovative nature, the industry is constantly moving towards more efficiency and safety. In the future, all-electric and selfdriving cars may become an industry standard just as yesterday’s innovations like the seatbelt or the airbag.
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CAC to celebrate Town Fiesta The Cabatuan Association of California will celebrate their Annual Town Fiesta in honor of their Patron Saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino on September 10, 2016 with a mass at 11:00 am at Nati Matitu-Mercado’s residence - 15255 Knapp St. North Hills, CA, 91343. Please invite four friends and relatives. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa. For other inquiries, please call Esoy Tavarro, president, (714) 797-0073; Sally Bilbao, adviser (951) 8785589; Boboy Mosqueda, adviser (714) 519-8973; or Nati Matitu-Mercado, adviser at (818) 894-5142.
Free citizenship workshop in Orange County On Friday, Sept. 16, Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development (OCCORD) will help local green card holders take the first step towards becoming citizens through free events as part of the New Americans Campaign. This workshop will provide lawful permanent residents with free naturalization application assistance by professional and trained volunteers. Individuals will also receive legal counsel by pro-bono attorneys and legal experts. Services are available in Spanish, Korean and English. The workshop will be from 4 to 6 p.m. at Century High School, 1401 S. Grand Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705. Registration is required; please call 714-621-0919, ext. 13.
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The Filipino USPS Retirees Club of Los Angeles reunion The Filipino USPS Retirees Club of Los Angeles is having its 3rd anniversary reunion on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 12 p.m. to dusk. It will be held at Romy Vidal’s residence at 1998 Big Oak Ave., Chino Hills, CA 91709. To RSVP, please call Romy (951) 733-7140 or Lito (909) 263-4167.
Lorenzo Ruiz: A musical play On Saturday, September 17, the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community will present a musical play entitled Lorenzo Ruiz: the First Filipino Saint. This play will star Mat Ranillo III, a Filipino TV, film and stage actor. Purchase your tickets today, for a donation of $20 for one event or $25 for both events. Seats are limited so get your tickets early. For ticket sales, please contact St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish office at (909) 595-9545. St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community is located at 747 Meadowpass Rd., Walnut, California 91789.
27th annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia Come and celebrate the 27th annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia, the patroness of Bicolandia. The grand fiesta will be on Saturday, Sept. 17, beginning with a concelebrated mass at 1 p.m., followed by a Fluvial Procession. It will be held at Liberty State Park, Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey, City, New Jersey 07305.
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AAPA’s leadership symposium Join the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) for an all-day event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with exceptional and diverse keynote speakers and panelists, as well as multiple workshops on diversity and leadership topics. The symposium is open to everyone, and will be held at the Pacific Palms Hotel, 1 Industry Hills Parkway, City of Industry, CA 91744. For more information, please visit http://aapamentoring.com/.
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PASCPA-Los Angeles dinner dance event Philippine American Society of Certified Public Accountants (PASCPA) is celebrating 30 years of promoting excellence for the future leaders! Join PASCPA on Saturday, Sept. 24 as it installs officers & board members and inducts new members of the organization. Networking will begin at 4:30 until 6:15 p.m. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. It will be held at Pickwick Gardens, 1001 Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA 91506. Attire is formal and there will be no host bar. A donation of $65 is required. For more information, please visit http://pascpa.org/.
8th Regional Celebration of the Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Region invites everyone to the 8th Regional Celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the First Filipino Saint. Festivities will be on Saturday, September 24, 2016, at this year’s host parish, Holy Family Church - Glendale (209 East Lomita Avenue, Glendale CA 91205). Procession starts at 4:30 PM , then Mass at 5:30 PM with Most Reverend Oscar A. Solis DD, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles, as Principal Celebrant. Reception , fellowship and program will immediately follow at the Holy Family Grade School Auditorium across the church. For more information, please contact Ping Bayani at(913) 558-4332 or bayani0950@yahoo.com.
Annual celebration of Sr.San Miguel Archangel The Association of Iligan City & Lanao del Norte of Southern California (AICLNSC) invites everyone, Iliganons, Lanaons and friends to come and celebrate the annual celebration in honor of Senior San Miguel de Archangel, Patron of Iligan City. The Diyandi 2016 Fiesta Celebration will be at Carson Park, 21411 South Orrick St., Carson, CA 90745 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There will be a Holy Mass at 11:00 a.m. and followed by Sinulog/ Procession at 11:30 a.m. On September 24, 2016, a Dinner Dance/Induction of new set of Officers 2016-2018 to be held at St. Philomena Parish Hall, 21900 South Main St., Carson, CA 90745 from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. For details, please call Lenard Castillo (310) 8869374 or Edna Cabreros (562) 316-9541.
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Virgen de los Remedios Festivities at the Los Angeles Cathedral Thousands of Marian devotees all over Los Angeles will gather at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels for the Diamond Jubilee of Virgen de los Remedios Canonical Coronation on Sunday, Sept. 25 at 3:30 p.m. The Glendale High School Band, conducted by Grammy nominee Amy Rangel, will lead the afternoon procession participated by both Filipinos and Latinos in their traditional costumes. This will be followed by a Solemn High Mass with the joint choirs of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, St. Columban, Couples for Christ and the award winning Immaculate Heart of Mary Children’s Choir accompanied by musical artists from the Filipino American community. Everyone is invited to come and bring their Marian images. Organizations are asked to bring their banners for the procession to begin at the Cathedral Plaza. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is located at 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012-2707.
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White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders community town hall The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI) Southwest Regional Network is holding an Asian American & Pacific Islander community town hall on Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Las Vegas. Officials from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services (USCIS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), US Department of Labor (DOL), Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and Social Security Administration (SSA) will present their agency’s overviews and answer your questions. The event is hosted by the Asian Community Development Council at 2610 S. Jones Blvd., Suite 3, Las Vegas, NV 89146. To RSVP, please register at www.whiaapiroundlasvegas. eventbrite.com.
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Bataan Legacy Historical Society multimedia presentation Bataan Legacy Historical Society, a non-profit educational 501(c)(3) organization, will hold a multimedia presentation at the San Francisco Asian Art Museum from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, please visit www.bataanlegacy.org.
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Features
B September 15-21, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
By Monet
Janine Tugonon: the first full-blooded Filipina model of Victoria’s Secret
Lu
THE face that captured the Universe—and emerged as 1st runner-up—at the 2012 Miss Universe pageant has once again conquered the international scene. This time, as one of Victoria Secret’s models for its “Pink” fashion line, making Janine Tugonon the first fullblooded Filipina to be part of the prestigious brand. As she ventured into the international modeling scene after her success in the said pageant, she is now making strides and indeed making us proud kababayans. The ad, released online on Tuesday, Sept. 6, shows Janine and other models as students. Victoria’s Secret Pink is mainly targeted to younger women and/or college-aged women. Featured in its latest TV ad are women celebrating their lives as students. Janine stars with three other models who are shown living through the challenges of college life. When the ad launched, Janine could not contain her excitement and shared the clip on her social media pages immediately. “I had so much fun shooting this with you,” Tugonon wrote as she posted the Victoria’s Secret Pink ad on her Instagram page and tagged her fellow models. Her gig with the iconic fashion brand had drawn praises and support from many Filipinos. Those who have supported Tugonon even during her Binibining Pilipinas days (that includes me) were not surprised to see their favorite candidate continuing her path to greatness. I know Janine. As I’ve said I’ve always been one of her supporters when she represented the Philippines in Miss Universe four years ago. I was in there in Las Vegas when she competed. I bet she would win and though she didn’t go home with the title that night, being crowned as the first runner-up is just as honorable as winning the pageant. A few years following the pageant, she moved to the states to continue modeling and is now a ramp model for MSA models. I still see her once in a while at her former mentor Jonas Gaffud’s events. I actually invited her to
The Beautiful Life Celebration, which is an annual commemorative event in recognition of remarkable Filipino-Americans in the U.S. Janine also graced the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam last year and strutted in the high-end runways during the New York Fashion Week / Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. She opened and closed the show for an LA-based designer Erik Rosete. She also modeled for Oscar De La Renta who closed the Australian Fashion Week this year. According to her bio, Janine was born in Orion, Bataan in the Philippines. Aside from working as a model, she also did TV hosting in the Philippines. Janine finished her Pharmacy degree with Latin honours (Cum Laude) at the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas in Manila and became a Licensed Pharmacist in June 2010. She also attended the Ballet School of Manila as a ballet protégé while attending university. In 2010, Tugonon was titled Miss Pharmacy and Miss Thomasian Personality 2010 at the Gingoog City Colleges When Janine won first runnerup to Olivia Culpo of the USA in Miss Universe 2012, she was the only Asian to place in the top 3. During the final question and answer portion of the competition Tugonon was asked a question via Twitter and read by judge Nigel Barker: “As an international ambassador, do you believe that speaking English should be a prerequisite to being Miss Universe? Why or why not?”
To which our witty representative Janine Tugonon replied: “For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language – it is being able to influence and inspire other people. So whatever language you have, as long your heart is to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people, then, you can be Miss Universe.” The memory was so vivid. I was there when she spoke those words that swept the judges off their feet. I, on the other hand, had nothing but hope; admittedly, I expected her to win the crown. When the Miss Universe 2012 was announced, I looked at Janine and all I saw was a promising future for this wonderful lady. True enough, I was right. Because even after that fateful night, she is again showing the whole universe that the secret to being recognized for your dedication is to press on (no matter what) and enjoy the ride. To Janine, you’ve come a long way, dear. Keep on keeping on and stay as confident and wise as you are. You’ll always have my cheers and support. *** monet Lu is a marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as enlighten,
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA (part 2 of 2) IN the media and online, we have seen a parade of scandals: from political scumbags, depraved men of the cloth, big-time con artists to scandal-plagued, shameless celebrities who trade on their image to push depraved agendas useful only to the elite class they have created for themselves. We seem to be breathing their toxic fumes when they self-destruct into flames. Honor, decency, civility and respect are in short supply these days. And we heave a heavy sigh and shake our heads in disbelief. Our zeitgeist is characterized by distrust and cynicism. It’s been building up for a long time. Zeitgeist is that fancy schmancy $20 word of Germanic origin sociologists use to refer to the spirit of the age. There seems to be a collective negative energy that hovers about and affects the thoughts and feelings of many who are affected by these dark times. Perhaps, this is somewhat similar to the dark mood and feelings of helplessness that afflicted many who slogged through the long years of the Great Depression. IT IS TIME TO SHAKE IT OFF. For us to get back on track, we have to refuse to live in fear and zap out of this paranoia that can paralyze us into immobility. We need to take courage. Someone once said, “A brave person is someone who takes positive action after he has said his prayers.” Time and again, it’s been found that tough survivors believe in a God who cares. They believe in themselves. They believe in the correlation between luck and hard work.
Bringing moxie back “You just might be the person who can brighten up a room simply by leaving it.” They believe in the greatness of their country and have decided on a unified front, to muster enough MOXIE to engage the enemy within. In some ways, we can influence good fortune with the attitude, motivation and oftentimes, with sheer moxie, with which we face our individual daily lives. If you expect bad things to happen to you or if you yourself confirm that you are unlucky, more than likely, it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy. You might as well admit it. You’re a sad sack Eeyore with a permanent, heavy and dark rain cloud hanging over your head. The negative energy you emit repels people who would otherwise be of help to you. You just might be the person who can brighten up a room simply by leaving it. Perhaps, it’s your personality and there’s nothing you can do about it, not even if you’ve soaked up the brightness of the sun. You were wired to be negative and pessimistic and no motivation outside of yourself can undo you. You’re one tough customer for the Holy Spirit to work wonders with. Fine. But for as long as you think that you have nothing to do with the ill fortune that seems to bedevil your life, you can just live with the dire consequences of fear, anxiety and unhappiness which result from being toxic and always believing the worst of everything. Particularly during these uncertain times, no one can afford the luxury of a negative thought. But much more so for all those
Nota bene: monette Adeva maglaya is SVp of Asian Journal publications, Inc. to send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@asianjournalinc.
Judy Ann Santos: Rude behavior of young stars should not be tolerated by Marinel r. Cruz Inquirer.net
JUDY ANN Santos promised to continue doing projects that would challenge her as an actress, but said she would draw the line at doing kissing scenes. “I am married and with three kids. I value what they think of me. I don’t want to give people any reason to tease my children, especially in social media, because of me,” Judy Ann declared. She is married to TV host Ryan Agoncillo, with whom she has two kids, Lucho and Luna, and adopted daughter Yohan. Her last film, “Kusina,” paired her with two good-looking men, Joem Bascon and Luis Alandy. “I have nothing against fellow actresses who are married but still do it. It just means that they really love their craft. This is just my opinion. My children and husband are everything to me. I don’t want to have to explain to my kids what I do as an actress. Right now, they’re still too young to understand that this is all make-believe,” Judy Ann told the Inquirer. This was why, Judy Ann said, her romantic scenes with Luis in “Kusina” had no kissing scene. The actress explained: “I told my directors that if we could do away with that, but still come up with a commendable film, then I’d support the project.” At the helm of “Kusina” are David Corpuz and Cenon Palomares. It premiered at the 2016 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, and will have its nationwide commercial run in November. She denied that it was Ryan who had set limitations for her. “It was my decision. Some people are just not used to seeing me really put my foot down about some-
Judy Ann Santos at the gala screening of “Kusina”
thing,” she pointed out. “When I was younger, there were a lot of times when I felt forced to do some things by the people around me. I’ve done everything for them—now, I have to take charge. My family is my priority.” Her greatest fear as an actress, Judy Ann said, was “to not be respected by young artists I will be working with in the future. I see this happening to some of our veteran actors today. Artists who
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on survival mode, an optimistic can-do attitude is a MUST. With this current economic morass, a big chunk of the population along with many more in the middle class, will regress back to survival mode, quite by default. Many who have moved to more comfortable levels but were caught by the real estate slump and lost their homes, may find themselves sliding back to square one and engaging in the daunting prospect of finding a job. Do take heart. Most of us who come from poverty-stricken nations have what it takes to survive times such as these. Most of us came as immigrants and have gone through the long and tedious process to become fullfledged citizens of our adoptive country. Most of us have had plenty of practice. We have the scars to prove the battles we have survived. We have learned to hunker down, to batten down the hatches during the storms. But there seems to be a change in the air and just perhaps, even with a deceptive lull just before more upheavals up ahead, the future is looking good. There is that faint light growing brighter at the end of a long dark tunnel. This slump, experts claim, is longer and deeper, than anyone can imagine. But as in everything else under the sun, THIS TOO SHALL PASS. And hopefully, very soon. ***
Judy Ann Santos (right) with husband ryan Agoncillo
Inquirer.net photo
feel like they’re superstars treat our seniors poorly. This shouldn’t be the case. I don’t understand why major networks tolerate these kids’ rude behavior.” As a mom, her only wish is to be able to “raise my children well.” The 38-year-old added: “I want to be with them every step of the way. I don’t want to miss any milestone in their lives—these are precious moments I can no longer rewind.”
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/EA G/COIN AGAR AGAR POWDER(50) 1601036 25 LB
1661778 17.5 OZ
98¢
1693563,64 20 OZ
1298
/EA ASAIN TASTE JASMINE RICE 25LBS
2
FOR
/EA
ASAIN TASTE CANNED AI-YU JELLY GRASS JELLY/ GREEN JELLY
1619210,11 32 OZ
1 40
KIMBO YOUNG COCONUT JUICE W/PULP 1697225 10 OZ
488
/EA MASAGANA SIOPAO-PORK/CHICKEN
3604848 4.2OZ
198
F/HORSE CHILI SAUCE SWEET/SPRING ROLL 2004189 12 OZ
298 /EA
MASAGANA BEEF TAPA
4
FOR
/EA
298
NONGSHIM NDL SOUP KIMCHI 2004260 12 OZ
268 /EA
MASAGANA PORK LONGANISA-HOT
268 /EA
MASAGANA PORK LONGANISA-SWEET
We are not responsible for typographical or pictorial errors. Please refer to in-store signs. Limited quantities while supplies last. No rain checks. Product availability may vary by store. Restrictions may apply, please see store for more details.