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Volume 28 - No. 37 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

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DATELINE USA FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Filipino veterans of WWII to be given highest honor by Congress in Oct. AROUND 260,000 Filipino and FilipinoAmerican soldiers fought Axis powers during World War II, helping bring the U.S. and Allied forces to victory. Now over seven decades later, Filipino veterans of World War II will officially be honored with a Congressional Gold Medal. On Wednesday, October 25, Filipino veterans of World War II will be presented the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor the U.S. can bestow, by leaders of the U.S. House and Senate in honor of their services and sacrifices during the war. As previously reported by the Asian Journal, only around 18,000 of the Filipino WWII

S E P T E MBE R 2 1 - 2 7 , 2 0 1 7

Cayetano to discuss PH drug war before UN by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

MANILA - Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano is set to discuss the Philippine government’s campaign against illegal drugs before the United Nations (UN) on Saturday, September 23. Cayetano will represent Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte at the upcoming 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. He is expected to deliver the chief executive’s message for the international community to unite against terrorism, nuclear weapons and other common threats. During the event, Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Teodoro Locsin,

Jr. said Cayetano will also discuss the need to address the threats posed by the Islamic State, as well as the continuing missile test launches and detonations by North Korea. Likewise, the Philippines’ top diplomat will share the government’s efforts in protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of Filipino migrant workers. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Cayetano’s participation in this annual event marks his first appearance in the world stage since he assumed as Secretary of Foreign Affairs earlier in June. The UN has repeatedly condemned the Philippine government’s crackdown on

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Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano

Trillanes tells Duterte: ‘You’re checkmate’ by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

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US postpones the delivery of rifles to PH THE United States has put on hold the delivery of thousands of rifles to the Philippines due to concerns over the drug war killings and alleged human rights violations in the country. This was according to Philippine National Police (PNP) Deputy Director General Archie Francisco Gamboa on Tuesday, September 19, during the Senate hearing on the proposed budget for 2018 of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the PNP. “The recent predicament that we have [is that we have] 27,000 [rifles] supposedly ready for delivery to the PNP – Sig Sauer basic assault rifles, 5.56,” Gamboa said. Sig Sauer is a firearms manufacturer based in the U.S. “The U.S. State Department has put on hold the delivery of thousands of basic assault rifles to the Philippine National Police (PNP) because of alleged human rights violations linked to the

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Philstar.com photo

LET THERE BE PEACE. President Rodrigo Duterte does the peace sign with former President Fidel V. Ramos and employees from the Ofﬁce of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) who celebrated their 24th Anniversary in Malacañang Palace last September 14. Malacañang photo by Albert Alcain

MANILA - With his alleged Singapore bank accounts proven to be non-existent, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV said it’s now checkmate for his accuser, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. “Mr. Duterte, pusoy ka na. Checkmate ka na. Wag Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV Inquirer.net photo ka na magpalusot (Mr. Duterte it’s checkmate. Stop making excuses),” said Trillanes, who has been highly critical of the president. On Monday, September 18, Trillanes flew to Singapore to personally disprove the chief executive’s allegations that the senator has millions of undeclared wealth in several foreign accounts. Duterte earlier claimed that the opposition sena-

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CHR: ‘We are not the opposition but the gov’t conscience’ Filipina appointed to Trump admin’s Community Development Advisory Board by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

In a television interview last week, Commissioner Gwen Pimentel-Gana maintained that the MANILA - The Commission agency does not have any agenda on Human Rights (CHR) said the of ousting Duterte despite being agency is not meant to oppose critical of the government’s sothe administration of Philippine called war on drugs. President Rodrigo Duterte but “Definitely, we have no agenda instead, serves as the govern- on that,” Gana told ANC’s Headment’s conscience. start last week.

Earlier, Duterte claimed that CHR Chair Chito Gascon was “for the opposition” who wants him out of the presidency. But Gana refuted the chief executive’s allegations, saying, “We are not the opposition. As a matter of fact, we are here to help the government to protect and to

by AJPRESS U.S. President Donald Trump has announced his intent to appoint a Filipina community leader to a key administration post, the White House announced on Friday, Sept. 15. Faith Bautista, the president and CEO of the National Diversity Coalition (NDC) and the National Asian American Coalition (NAAC), will be appointed as a member of the Community Development Advisory Board, which advises the U.S. Treasury Department’s Com-

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Faith Bautista

munity Development Financial Institutions (CFDI) Fund on policies and activities. Bautista will serve a term of four years on the board. The CDFI Fund was created to promote economic development and revitalization in America’s underserved and distressed lowincome communities. Through its programs and resources, the CDFI Fund supports real estate developments, businesses, health care facilities, workforce training centers, and

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Senate GOP makes last-ditch effort to repeal Obamacare New bill gives states more autonomy over health care funding, slashes Medicaid funding

by KLARIZE

MEDENILLA AJPress

University of Santo Tomas students light candles for law student Horacio Castillo III during a ceremony at the campus plaza on Monday, Sept. 18. Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman

THIS year, congressional Republicans have been looking to act on its years-long party pledge of repealing the Affordable Healthcare Act (aka Obamacare) by implementing the party’s own health care bill.

In March, the House proposed the American Health Care Act (AHCA), which would have repealed major parts of Obamacare and would have left 23 million Americans uninsured, failed to garner majority support and was viewed as too restricting. Republicans then amended

the AHCA and reintroduced it in June as the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017. In July, the Senate rejected the bill, along with its scaled-back “skinny repeal” version. Despite failure to garner support for each incarnation of the

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September 21-27, 2017 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL

US postpones the delivery of rifles... PAGE A1 war on drugs in the country,” the PNP official added. According to Gamboa, the Philippine government had not yet paid the purchase. He noted, however, that the police may have to conduct a new bidding process to purchase weapons as it already obligated the funds. Last year, Washington reportedly halted its firearms transaction

with Manila after U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed his intention to oppose it. Cardin cited the supposed thousands of extrajudicial killings linked with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial campaign against illegal drugs as grounds to halt the deal. Hitting back at Washington, Duterte, who has been critical of

From The FronT Page

the U.S., then called the country officials behind the decision “fools” and “monkeys.” Earlier in May, Cardin and another U.S. Senator, Marco Rubio, filed a bill seeking to restrict the export of arms from Washington to Manila, citing Duterte’s “deeply alarming” war on drugs “that has horrified the international community.” Their proposed Philippines Human Rights Accountability and Counternarcotics Act of 2017 aims to “restrict the exportation of certain defense articles to the [PNP],” and to “work with the Philippines to support civil society and a public health approach to substance abuse,” among others. (Dana Sioson/AJPress)

Filipina appointed to Trump admin’s... PAGE A1 jobs in urban and rural areas across the county. NAAC is a HUD-approved homeowner, small business and consumer advocacy organization serving the country’s 18 million Asian Americans, and the NDC is an organization of community organizers, faith-based leaders, nonprofit directors, and business owners working collectively for greater financial equality and empowerment for underserved groups. The organization works with corporate and government leaders to advocate for opportunities in homeownership, small business, and financial literacy for all groups. Under both NDC and NAAC, Bautista advocates in the halls of Congress, in the California legislature and in front of key federal legislators, such as the Federal Reserve, FDIC, OCC, FHFA, FTC, FCC and SEC and among America’s Fortune 500 corporations, as a major voice for the Asian American community. She is a member of the Office of Thrift Supervision Minority Depository Institutions Advisory Committee and sits on the Low-Income Oversight Board for the California Public Utilities Commission. Faith is the host of “Owning a Piece of America,” a television program that focuses on financial and consumer education, lifestyle and health education, and community and government relations.

IT BEGINS. Members of various groups attempt to break through a barricade set up by policemen near the Department of Justice (DOJ) building in Manila on Tuesday, Sept. 19. The groups held a rally to protest the killing of drug suspects. ManilaTimes.net photo by rene Dilan

Cayetano to discuss PH drug... PAGE A1 narcotics over its linked alleged summary killings and human rights abuses. Just last week, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein said he is “gravely concerned” about Duterte’s “open support for a shoot-to-kill policy” against crime suspects. But in response, Malacañang said that Al Hussein’s claims run counter to what Duterte has ordered, stressing that Duterte “has categorically and repeatedly

said that there is no shoot-to-kill order.” Other meetings Locsin said Cayetano will also attend the 4th ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Pacific Alliance Foreign Ministers Meeting; the 41st Annual Meeting for Foreign Ministers of the Group of 77; and the ASEANMercosur Foreign Ministers Meeting. In addition, Cayetano is expected to host an informal ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting and attend the bloc’s meeting with the

president of the 72nd UN General assembly and the UN Secretary General. Cayetano will likewise have bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Belgium, Colombia, Hungary, Ireland, Japan, Morocco, Norway, Poland, the United Arab Emirates and the Vatican. According to Consul General Maria Theresa De Vega of the Philippine Consulate General in New York, Cayetano will also speak before the Asia Society and meet with members of the Filipino community.

Senate GOP makes last-ditch effort to repeal...

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bill, Republicans are not giving up just yet. The latest edition of the GOP health bill comes from Republican senators Lindsey Graham (RS.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Dean Heller (R-N.V.) and Ron Johnson (R-W.I.) who on Wednesday, September 13, released a new draft that is looking for a vote within the next two weeks. The bill, which has been nicknamed “Graham-Cassidy,” would repeal “the structure and architecture of Obamacare and replaces it with a block grant

given annually to states,” according to a statement released by Graham. That essentially means that states are given more control over the allocation of funds to “best take care of the unique health care needs of the patients in each state.” It would also eliminate Obamacare’s individual insurance mandate and drastically scale back its expansion on Medicaid. Graham-Cassidy represents a last minute effort to propose a GOP answer to Obamacare as the party’s power to pass a health

care bill through a party-line vote expires on September 30. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, along with fellow congressional GOP leaders, haven’t made a decision on the bill, but he indicated that if the bill gains the support of 50 of the 52 Republican senators, he will bring the bill to the floor for consideration. The announcement comes just days after Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and 16 Senate Democrats introduced a Medicare for All bill that proposes to expand the PAGE A4

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DATELINE USA

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 21-27, 2017

DFA: No Filipino casualties in deadly Mexico quake Canelo-GGG fight ends in controversial draw by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

THE Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said it has not received any reports of Filipino casualties in the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Mexico on Tuesday, September 19. More than 200 people were killed and a still undetermined number of individuals were injured in the powerful tremor that toppled buildings in the country, including the heavily damaged Philippine Embassy in Mexico. The embassy occupies the first two floors of an eight-story office building in the Cuauhtémoc neighborhood near the city center. Philippine Ambassador to Mexico Eduardo de Vega said that the embassy sustained damages and all the embassy staff were able get out of the building unhurt when debris started to

fall. They were also able to check the condition of the 60-member Filipino community in Mexico City. “We are all a bit shaken but otherwise all of us from the embassy are all right,” De Vega said in a message to Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano. In a statement, Cayetano offered its sympathy and prayers to Mexico. “The people of Mexico are again in our thoughts and prayers today,” the Philippines’ top diplomat said. “We offer our sympathies to the Mexican Government and to those who lost their loved ones in this tragedy.” According to the United States Geological Survey, the magnitude 7.1 quake was centered near the Puebla state town of Raboso, about 76 miles (123 kilometers) southeast of Mexico City. This came around two weeks

after a powerful 8.1 magnitude quake hit the country last September 7, killing 90 people. It also falls on the 32nd anniversary of the deadliest quake that hit Mexico and left roughly 10,000 people dead in 1985. The U.S. government also extended its condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones in the incident. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Mexico affected by today’s 7.1-magnitude earthquake and other recent natural disasters. We stand ready to provide assistance should our neighbors request our help,” U.S. State Department Spokesperson Heather Nauert said. “Our embassy in Mexico City has sent out public messages to U.S. citizens in Mexico, and the embassy stands ready to provide consular assistance to any U.S. citizens who may have been affected,” she added.

IN one of the biggest fights of the decade, WBC, WBA, IBF and IBO world middleweight champion Gennady ‘Triple G’ Golovkin of Kazakhstan and Ring middleweight champion Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez of Mexico fought a thrilling and very close 12-round fisticuffs that lived up to the hype on Saturday night, Sept. 16 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The fight ended in a draw — by itself would be acceptable to a lot of fans for both camps although it left pretty much everything hanging — but the real story and what made the fight controversial was the score of boxing judge Adelaide Byrd who had it 118-110 in Canelo’s favor, giving only two rounds to Golovkin who pressured fight. Judge Dave Moretti awarded Canelo all night and appeared to the fight to Golovkin with a 115hurt Canelo at some point in the 113 score while Don Trella had it a draw 114-114. In the post fight interviews, both Golovkin, who retained all his belts, and Canelo, wanted a rematch which at this point is the most logical thing to do to bring closure their rivalry. The sequel would not probably happen until May next year when the traditional Mexican that Duterte is lying about his Cinco de Mayo festivities play host accusations that I own foreign bank accounts),” he said. ‘I made it up’ But hours after the senator debunked the president’s claim, Duterte admitted that he intentionally announced the wrong account number to “fool” Trillanes. In a live interview on staterun PTV-4, Duterte said that the 178000296012 he previously mentioned was was merely a “product of his mind.” “Trillanes, ganito ‘yan: Ang actual account number from Mocha and Erwin is 1178000281602. Binasa ko. Binawasan ko ng number. Wala by DENISON REY A. DALUPANG ito imbento lang (Trillanes, held at the Philippine Arena. Philstar.com this is how it goes: The actual “That’s three million dollars for account number from Mocha MANNY Pacquiao is keeping Horn” Pacquiao said, according to and Erwin is 1178000281602. I all his options open regarding the source. read it. I cut a number. I made Horn had said he will push his next fight, which may take it up),” the president said. place before the year ends or the through with his November schedHe then laughed at the senasoonest he’d be available to fight ule in Brisbane, with or without tor for going to Singapore “out Pacquiao, but his silence over next year. of desperate attempt” to disPacquiao has put his foot down the past few weeks could mean prove his claims. on a rematch with Australian Jeff he’s listening to what Pacquiao “Kita mo siya ngayon (Look Horn in Brisbane, which was origi- is saying. at him). He’s desperate. PuPacquiao is not running away nally set November 12. munta ng Singapore, magInstead, Pacquiao had an- from a rematch with Horn, who gastos lang para propaganda nounced that he wants the rematch snatched the WBO welterweight lang (He went to Singapore held in the Philippines in Decem- crown from the Filipino superand spend for a propaganda),” ber, and is hoping that Horn would star last July 2 at the Brisbane Duterte added. Stadium. come over to face the challenge. In response, Trillanes said: But he wants the fight held A source said Pacquiao is doing “Buti naman umamin siya na things on his own, on behalf of his outside of Brisbane, whether it’s sinungaling siya (Good thing he MP Promotions, and has offered in the Philippines or any neutral admitted that he’s a liar).” Horn $3 million for a rematch to be ground, and under a new set of

Trillanes tells Duterte: ‘You’re checkmate’ PAGE A1

tor owns a bank account at the branch of DBS Bank in Alexandra Retail Center in Singapore, containing “193,000.” The president did not specify the currency of the said amount. According to Duterte, the senator’s alleged account with the DBS in Singapore is numbered 178000296012 and is under the name “Antonio F. Trillanes.” The president also accused the senator of having several accounts in Shanghai, China; Zurich and Geneva, Switzerland; the Cayman Islands; and the British Virgin Islands. But in a statement on Tuesday, September 19, Trillanes said the bank teller of DBS Bank in Alexandra Retail Center, Singapore, confirmed that “no such accounts exist” when he inquired about the bank accounts mentioned by Duterte. The senator added that he also inquired if there was an account, either existing or closed, under the names “Antonio F. Trillanes IV” or “Antonio F. Trillanes.” “Ang sagot muli ng teller ay (The teller responded), ‘No such accounts exist.’ Ito ay narinig at nasaksihan ng ilang media reporters na kasama ko sa pagtatanong ko sa bank teller (This was heard and witnessed by media reporters who

accompanied me in inquiring the bank teller ),” Trillanes said. The senator also tried to go to a branch of Hongkong Shanghai Bank Raffles but said such bank office does not exists. Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson and broadcaster Erwin Tulfo previously shared a post from media site “Davao Breaking News” saying Trillanes opened an account with “Hongkong Shanghai Bank” in its Raffles Branch in Singapore on July 2013. “Pinuntahan naman namin ang HSBC sa Raffles Blvd. pero ATM lang ang meron doon (We then checked the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation at Raffles Blvd. but there’s only an ATM machine there). A quick check at the HSBC Singapore website showed that there is no HSBC Raffles Branch,” Trillanes added. He then claimed that unfounded accusations against him were just a way to divert attention from the allegations that the president’s son, Paolo Duterte, and son-in-law, Manases Carpio, were involved in drug smuggling. “Maliwanag na nagsisinungaling si Duterte at gawa gawa lang nila ang mga paratang niya na meron akong mga foreign bank accounts (It’s clear

Photos by Jhay Oh Otamias

to boxing’s biggest fights. Canelo boxed well most of the fight to neutralize Golovkin’s aggression which made most of the rounds close. In the championship rounds however, Canelo seemed to gain the upperhand by connecting vicious punches on Golovkin whose famous granite chin was able to withstand Canelo’s bombs. The fight ended with both fighters raising their hands in victory. (Dr. Ed de la Vega)

Dubai still in play for Pacquiao next fight ring officials. Pacquiao is confident that he will beat Horn in a rematch. Pacquiao and his personal adviser, Mike Koncz, are handling things themselves. Insiders said Pacquiao has not taken or returned calls from the American promoter Bob Arum the past few weeks. “Calls from Bob Arum were unanswered,” said the source. If a fight in the Philippines doesn’t happen soon, Pacquiao is still open to doing a fight in the United Arab Emirates. The juicy offer from Dubai remains, and Amir Khan remains a possible opponent or even possibly the anticipated rematch with Horn.

Dateline USa

September 21-27, 2017 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL

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PH, US to hold joint counterterrorism drills by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PLAYING LOLO. President Rodrigo Duterte holds his grandson Marko, as the boy’s mother, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte Carpio looks on at the sidelines of the national convention for public attorneys held at the Manila Hotel on Monday, Sept. 18. ManilaTimes.net photo

CHR: ‘We are not the opposition but... PAGE A1 promote the rights of every individual.” “We are, in simple terms, like a conscience of the government,” she added. Gana also belied the accusation of Interior Assistant Secretary Epimaco Densing III that Gascon was using CHR to propagate the interest of the Liberal Party (LP) and to promote their supposed “advocacy to bring down the presidency.” But the commissioner said he has “not seen any overt act” to point that Gascon was conniving with the opposition party. She further noted that the agency is mandated to protect the rights of victims of crimes, and to monitor any alleged abuse by government agencies. “Agencies of government are duty-bearers in a sense that they are obliged and mandated to render services to the people, and people are rights-holders,” Gana said. She further noted that as rightsholders, CHR “can demand from government to fulfill the rights that we have in order to live in a just and humane society.” Earlier this month, the House of Representatives voted to cut the CHR’s budget for 2018 to a measly P1,000 amid the agency’s criticism against deaths and abuses linked with the government’s crackdown on narcotics. The CHR’s budget still has to go through the Senate and the bicameral conference committee before being finalized and signed by Duterte. Several senators have expressed their commitment to fight for the restoration of the

around P600 million budget of the agency. On Wednesday, Sept. 18, the House of Representatives restored the agency’s budget. Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles confirmed that the restoration of budget would be reflect in the third reading approval of the proposed P3.767 trillion national budget for 2018. Probe death of UST student In a separate statement, CHRNational Capital Region (NCR) investigator Jolly Torres said the agency “makes no distinction” on their mandate to protect and promote human rights. On Tuesday, September 19, Torres said the CHR will also investigate the case of a 22-year-old University of Santo Tomas (UST) law student who died after an alleged fraternity hazing. “Ang concept naman ng CHR ay universal (The concept of CHR is universal). We make no distinction as to who the victim is,” Torres told reporters after securing copies of police reports on the case at the Manila Police District (MPD) headquarters in Ermita. “Sa case na ‘to, since it is a case of hazing ay minarapat na naming imbestigahan (This case, since it is a case of hazing, we deigned to investigate it), contrary [to] general notion [that] we only investigate violations committed by the state,” he added. Freshman Horacio Tomas Castillo III was found dead on a sidewalk by a certain John Paul Solano at the corner of H. Lopez Boulevard and Infanta Street in Balut, Tondo on Sunday morning, September 17. According to the victim’s par-

ents, their son asked their permission to attend a welcome ceremony of the Aegis Juris, a fraternity based in the UST Faculty of Civil Law, on Saturday night, September 16. They said their son assured them that the frat assured them that the frat is anti-hazing and that the weekend event will only overnight drinking session. They only learned of the incident around 1 a.m. Monday, September 18, after the mother received a text message that their son was at Chinese General Hospital. In a statement, the university condemned the death of the freshman student. “We condemn in no uncertain terms hazing in any form or manner. Violence has no place in an academic institution, particularly in our University that values and promotes charity and compassion,” UST said. “We will leave no stones unturned to ensure that the perpetrators be meted the appropriate sanctions and brought to justice,” it added. The frat linked with Castillo’s death also vowed to coordinate with the authorities in their investigation. “The fraternity extends its condolences to the bereaved family of Horacio at these very trying times. Rest assured that the fraternity will extend its utmost cooperation in the investigation of this unfortunate incident,” Aegis Juris said in a statement. Apart from the MPD and the CHR, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is also conducting a separate investigation into the death of Castillo.

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THE governments of the Philippines and United States are set to hold a bilateral, interagency counterterrorism drill next week, the U.S. Embassy in Manila announced on Friday, September 15. Dubbed as “Tempest Wind,” the drill will take place in the Philippines and Hawaii; and aims “to improve the ability of both nations to rapidly plan, coordinate, and conduct counterterrorism operations.” The embassy further noted that the drill will be augmented by additional military assessments, national level engagement, and subject matter expert exchanges. Apart from information exchanges, Tempest Wind is also recognized as “a way to test force readiness and exercise interoperability” that could help focus future bilateral training efforts to enhance the crisis response capabilities of both nations. A decades-long ally of the Philippines, the U.S. has been providing technical assistance to Filipino troopers battling pro-Islamic

State (IS) extremists in Marawi City, Mindanao. Washington also recently donated P730 million ($15 million) in humanitarian aid for the ongoing relief operations and rehabilitation of the besieged city. “The United States is a proud ally of the Philippines and will continue to provide support and assistance to Philippine counterterrorism efforts and work jointly to address shared threats to the peace and security of both countries,” the embassy said in a statement. But Filipino activists expressed dissent over the American troops’ involvement in Marawi operations. Also on Friday, hundreds of angry Filipinos rallied outside the U.S. embassy in Manila and clashed with police officers. Video footage and photos captured by local news agencies show activists marching with banners that read, “US: Imperialist, # 1 terrorist. Hands off Marawi! US troops out now!” Protesters also burnt effigies of U.S. President Donald Trump and Philippine President Rodrigo

Duterte. Manila visit Earlier this year, Duterte extended an invitation to Trump to attend the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Manila this November. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence announced in April that Trump would visit the Philippines, but when recently asked about the matter, Trump has yet to personally confirm his attendance to the summit. “He (Duterte) invited us, so we’re going to see,” the U.S. president told reporters aboard Air Force One on Thursday, September 14. He confirmed, however, that he’ll visit Japan, South Korea and China in November. He added that he might also fly to Vietnam later in the same month for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) conference. “We’ll probably all be going over (to Asia) in a group in November. And we’ll be doing Japan, South Korea, possibly Vietnam with the conference,” Trump said.

Donaire returns, takes on Mexican in featherweight bout by Dino

Maragay Philstar.com

FORMER four-division world champion Nonito Donaire Jr. will return to the ring after a 10-month layoff, testing Mexican Ruben Hernandez at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday, Sept. 23. Donaire (37-4, with 24 KOs) will fight Hernandez (22-2, with 9 KOs) for the vacant WBC silver featherweight title, marking the Filipino-American’s return to the 126-pound division. This marks the third time Donaire will fight as a featherweight, splitting his two bouts in the weight class. After dethroning Simpiwe Vetyeka to become the WBA featherweight champion in 2014, he failed to defend the title, losing to Nicholas Walters by knockout the same year.

Nonito Donaire Jr.

Donaire then slid back to super bantamweight (122 pounds), annexing the WBO version of the title. The 34-year-old Donaire hasn’t fought since losing the WBO super bantamweight championship to Jessie Magdaleno in November

Philstar.com photo

2016 in Las Vegas. He is hoping to go back to his winning ways against the unheralded Hernandez, who for his part sees Donaire—who has also won titles at flyweight and bantamweight—as his springboard to bigger fights.

Filipino veterans of WWII to be given... PAGE A1 veterans are still alive today. An estimated 2,000 to 6,000 are still living in the U.S. “The United States is indebted to the service, bravery, and perseverance of Filipino veterans of World War II. Their sacrifices were left untold in the United States for decades, as they fought for recognition by the country they served,” said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii), who first introduced the bill to the chamber in 2015. “I am proud that we can correct the record today, and finally honor the service and sacrifice of these heroes and their families, and ensure they are never forgotten.” Senator Mazie K. Hirono (DHawaii), who also introduced the bill, called the medal presentation a “culmination of decades of work to honor these veterans for their service to our country.” “These veterans and their families overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service. I look forward to participating in the ceremony to provide this long overdue recognition next month,” said Hirono. The Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Medal Act of 2015, also known as S. 1555, was signed into law by former President Barack Obama on December 15, 2016.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) Photo from House.gov

The bill secured the complete approval from Congress on Nov. 30, 2016, after it was passed by the United States House of Representatives where it received 312 co-sponsors. Pushing for the bill in the House were Gabbard, Rep. Judy Chu (D-California), and former Rep. Mike Honda (D-California). Gabbard said on the Congress floor prior to the House voting, “These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, sacrificed, fought, and gave their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war.” “We’ve waited far too long to recognize these heroes who deserve this honor.” The Senate first made a unanimous vote to approve the bill

on July 13, 2016 — sponsors included Hirono, Dean Heller (R-Nevada), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and former Senator Harry Reid (D-Nevada). Upon the success of the Senate’s vote, Minister and Consul Patrick Chuasoto of the Embassy of the Philippines in Washington, D.C, called it a “significant step forward in the long battle for due recognition of our veterans who courageously fought side by side with the Americans in the defense of freedom and democracy.” Among other ethnic military groups that have been awarded the Congressional Gold Medal are the Tuskegee airmen, the Navajo Code Talkers, and the Women Air Service Pilots among others, according to Cecilia Gaerlan, founder and executive director of the Bataan Legacy Historical Society, as previously stated by the Asian Journal. Taking part in the October 25 bipartisan and bicameral ceremony are House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-New York), and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-California). The ceremony will take place in the Emancipation Hall in Washington D.C. at 11:00 a.m. EST and will be live streamed on speaker.gov/live.

GOP makes last-ditch effort to repeal Obamacare PAGE A2 federal government’s role in the American health care system, as the Asian Journal previously reported. Obamacare advocates acknowledged the program’s pitfalls but spoke of its potential if given the chance to refine the current system. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), the nation’s largest nonpartisan organization for Americans 50 and older, criticized Graham-Cassidy for eliminating tax credits that help all consumers, especially older ones, afford insurance premiums. Nearly 6.1 million Americans aged 50-64 get their coverage through states’ health insurance exchanges, and 3.2 million of those consumers are now eligible receive tax credits for health insurance coverage, which reduce premium and out-of-pocket expenses. The AARP released a statement on Tuesday, September 19, that said that Graham-Cassidy would “undermine the consumer protections which millions of Americans have benefitted from and rely on today,” also denounc-

ing its proposal to cut Medicaid, which covers more than 17.4 million Americans. According to the AARP’s Public Policy Institute, Graham-Cassidy would slash between $1.2 trillion and $3.2 trillion in Medicaid spending over the next two decades, which could force states to cut back on home and community-based services or reduce eligibility for coverage. “Changing Medicaid into a per capita cap financing or block grant structure would endanger the health, safety, and care of millions of individuals who depend on the essential services provided through Medicaid,” the AARP said. “We urge to vote NO on [Graham-Cassidy] and instead ask the Senate to continue its work through the bipartisan market stabilization efforts.” Before the election, Americans were almost evenly divided on the ACA — 46 percent approved of the ACA while 51 percent disapproved, according to an October 2016 poll from Pew Research. However, according to an ABC/ Washington Post poll released in 2017, 61 percent of Americans said they’d prefer if lawmakers

kept Obamacare intact and work on improving the program. Moreover, 79 percent said that President Donald Trump — who has made it a priority to repeal and replace Obamacare — should try to make Obamacare work instead of letting it fail. Anthony Wright, executive director of consumer health advocacy coalition Health Access, said that improving the current healthcare system offers a host of benefits for different communities, including immigrants and lower-income families that depend on programs like Medicaid, which was expanded in 2016 through Obamacare. “We’re not looking just to maintain [Obamacare], but to make improvements,” Wright said in a press call in August. “We need improvements in the way of extended care to immigrant children, approval to extend Medicaid to young adults regardless of citizenship status, getting better transparency over prescription drug process…if we could maintain that, and not have these egregious cuts, we can focus on steps moving forward and ways to improve on the current system.”

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D ateline PhiliPPines Duterte not backing down from drug war despite criticisms over teenagers’ slay by Dana

sioson AJPress

PHIlIPPInE President Rodrigo Duterte maintained that the government’s crackdown on drugs will continue despite heavy criticism against it in connection with the recent killing of teenagers. Duterte’s campaign against illegal drugs came under fire following the deaths of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos and 19-yearold Carl Arnaiz, who were both killed by Caloocan City police in separate incidents of alleged shootouts last month. In a speech in Davao City, the president insisted that the campaign is targeting organized crime and not “teenagers without a sin.” “let me be very clear on this. When I was campaigning, I said that I would kill anybody who would destroy my country and would kill you if you kill the youth of the land. I am referring not to teenagers without a sin. I’m referring to organized crime,” he said on Saturday, September 16. Duterte won the 2016 presidential election in a landslide victory, and the crackdown on narcotics was among his campaign promises. But despite condemnation from both local and international groups over alleged human rights violations and summary killings, the president maintained that there would be “no letup” and “no compromise” in the govern-

Pres. Rodrigo Duterte

Malacañang photo

ment’s effort to free the country from illegal drugs. “I will fulfill my promises to the Filipinos. Just because there are some people who died there, and even teenagers, it doesn’t mean to say you have to stop. We cannot stop. Otherwise, I will throw this country to the dogs,” Duterte said. He added, “Either you accept it as a fact of your life now, today or you will die of exasperation, or you can kill me if you want. Feel free to do it but I won’t hold back.. I will not be remembered as the President in whose time the Philippines went to the dogs because of drugs. I can’t accept that.” He also apologized anew for the death of civilians, express-

ing support for national Capital Regional Police Office (nCRPO) Director Oscar Albayalde’s order to relieve the around 1,200 members of the Caloocan City police. Albayalde’s order came following the controversial death of delos Santos and Arnaiz, and a recent incident where police officers caught on a CCTV camera entering and ransacking the house of a civilian without a warrant. “With regard to the deaths, I’m sorry. But it had to happen. I’m sorry that there are policemen who are deaf and maybe taking shabu or involved in shabu trade because the entire Caloocan police was relieved,” Duterte said. In a separate statement, Duterte said he will invite the United nations Commission on Human Rights (UnCHR) to monitor police operations for any abuses should Congress end up giving the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) a measly P1,000 budget for 2018. “I will personally through an official channel, invite the Human Rights Commission of the United nations to set up a satellite office here,” he told reporters on Monday, September 18. “lahat ng operation ng pulis, they will embed an investigator, magpasok sila ng kasama sa pulis, wala ako problema diyan (All police operations, they will embed an investigator, they’ll assign someone to go with police, I have no problem with that),” he added.

SC to vote on de Lima drug case in October by Jomar

Canlas ManilaTimes.net

THE Supreme Court (SC) will vote on the case of Sen. leila de lima on October 10 to allow all the justices to submit their reflections and opinions on the lawmaker’s petition to nullify her arrest and dismiss the drug charges filed against her. A source told The Manila Times that Associate Justice Presbitero Velasco, the ponente of the case, has circulated the draft of the decision. So far, five justices have issued their separate dissenting opinions favoring de lima—Antonio Carpio, Marvic leonen, Estela Perlas-Bernabe, Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa and Francis Jardeleza. The justices who favored Velasco’s ponencia were Teresita leonardo-De Castro, Diosdado Peralta and Samuel Martires. De lima, who is detained at the Philippine national Police’s custodial center, asked the high court to nullify the arrest warrant on drug trading charges issued against her by Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Executive Judge Juanita Guerrero. De lima has asked the SC to annul the order dated February 23, 2017, issued by Muntinlupa RTC Executive Judge and Branch 204 Judge Juanita Guerrero, for the issuance of an arrest warrant against her. She claimed that Guerrero committed grave abuse of discretion because she issued the order despite the pendency of a motion

to quash at the SC. De lima also claimed that it is the Office of the Ombudsman that has jurisdiction over her case since she was charged on the basis that she used her position as Secretary of Justice to commit the alleged criminal acts she been charged with.

The former Justice secretary was accused of soliciting money from inmates at the new Bilibid Prison through her “bagmen” — Rafael Ragos and Ronnie Dayan. The senator maintained that there is not proof linking her to the illegal drug trade.

House junks impeachment complaint vs Comelec chair by Kristine Joy

Philstar.com

Patag

MAnIlA — The House of Representatives Committee on Justice has junked the impeachment complaint filed against Commission on Elections Chairman Andy Bautista. Voting 26-2, the committee dismissed the complaint filed by former Rep. Jacinto Paras and lawyer Ferdinand Topacio and declared it insufficient in form. Kabayan party-lisy Rep. Harry Roque, Cebu Rep. Gwen Garcia and Cavite Rep. Abraham Tolentino endorsed the impeachment complaint to the committee. Bautista was accused of alleged

Comelec Commissioner Andres Bautista says the commission is “business as usual” after the House of Representatives junked the impeachment complaint against him. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV

culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust. ‘Substitution verification’ Before the complaint’s sufficiency of form was put to a vote, the committee debated on whether the Motion to Admit Substitution Verification should be allowed. Roque raised that “substitution is not prohibited,” adding that the issue of the complaint is more than just a “domestic squabble,” and concerns the “integrity of the Commission on Elections” where the country’s “democracy is at stake.” The motion was met with opposition from several lawmakers. Albay Rep. Edcel lagman said that: “Just because the pleading or amendment is not prohibited, it must be allowed.” Misamis Occidental Rep. Henry Oaminal, for his part, said that “allowing the amendment of the verification, is in effect, allowing liberality which will [be] counter to the standard” imposed by Congress. Majority Floor leader Rodolfo Fariñas, also Ilocos norte representative, pointed out that: “If you look at the records and allegations, most of them are not their personal knowledge. Several paragraphs are quotes from news accounts.” An impeachment complaint against President Rodrigo Duterte earlier this year was junked because the committee ruled that the allegations were based on news reports and not the personal

knowledge of Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano. Paras and Topacio accused Bautista of culpable violation of the Constitution for his alleged misdeclaration in his Statement of Assets, liabilities and net Worth, which was first alleged by Chairman Bautista’s estranged wife, Tish. The commissioner was also accused of failing to “promptly act” on preventing data breach of the Comelec’s website. Roque implored with his colleagues and stressed the signifiSen. Leila de Lima Senate photo cance of hearing the complaint. However, the Justice committee, voting 27-3, junked the Motion to Admit Substitution Verification. Voting on form Garcia and Roque were later outvoted by 26 of their colleagues who rejected Garcia’s motion to find the impeachment complaint SOUTHERN NEVADA REGIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY sufficient in form. REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Bautista, for his part, said in a statement that he “welcomes” FOR the dismissal of the complaint as HAZARDOUS MATERIAL CONSULTANT SERVICES – RFP# P18008 it “proves to be a significant step in clearing [his] name after the malicious accusations.” SNRHA CONTACT PERSON(S) Wanda L. Beckett, Contract Administrator “As I have always maintained, ONLY: Telephone: (702) 477-3145 the allegations are fabricated and TDD: (702) 387-1898 baseless,” Bautista added. Note: Contact with any other SNRHA Email: wbeckett@snvrha.org or not available, contact staff other than the named within The Comelec chair vowed the this document is prohibited and commission “will continue to Linda Price Simpson, Contract Administrator will result in your Proposal being perform our mandate in respect of Telephone: (702) 477-3144 rejected. This also includes contact the credible conduct of Philippine Email: lpsimpson@snvrha.org with SNRHA’s Residents and Board of elections.” Commissioners. Rep. Tolentino, who endorsed the complaint, did not support the motion. WHERE TO DOWNLOAD AND RESPOND TO HOW TO OBTAIN THE SOLICITATION: SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS ON THE APPLICABLE INTERNET SITES: SNRHA website: www.snvrha.org click on Procurement and “Current Bid Invitations” and the prohibition under Section 3(h) proceed to the appropriate solicitation number. of R.A. no. 3019 against intervenProblems downloading the Solicitation, notify ing in a matter before a government SNRHA IT Department at (702) 477-3160, M-F, office was not repealed by the 1987 8AM-5PM PST Constitution, there is no evidence that the accused intervened in any matter before a government office for her pecuniary benefit,” the dePRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE: Pre-Proposal Conference fense said in a memorandum filed SNRHA Commissioners Chambers on Tuesday, Sept. 19. 340 N 11TH Street “Furthermore a foundation is Las Vegas NV 89101 not a business,” the defense added Date: October 11, 2017; Time: 10:00am; (PST) in part. Republic Act (R.A.) 3019 is the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices QUESTION & ANSWER October 23, 2017 by 9:00am (PST) Act. The Presidential Commission on Good SUBMISSION DEADLINE All questions and answers shall be submitted in With both the prosecution and Government had earlier identified a total of Inquiries are to be sent to the contact writing via email to wbeckett@snvrha.org -ordefense having filed their memo- $658 million deposits in the conjugal Swiss person listed above only. It is Fax: (702)922-7050 randa, the cases will be submitted dollar accounts of the Marcos couple. prohibited to contact any other SNRHA Philstar.com photo by Boy Santos for decision. employee, Commissioner regarding this solicitation.

Imelda Marcos seeks acquittal in graft cases by reina

tolentino ManilaTimes.net

FORMER first lady and now Rep. Imelda Marcos of Ilocos norte is asking the Sandiganbayan’s Fifth Division to acquit her or dismiss the 10 counts of graft filed against her. Marcos, who is out on bail, was charged for allegedly having financial or pecuniary interest in and participating in the management of several foundations despite a constitutional prohibition while she was a member of the Interim Batasang Pambansa and when she was minister of the Ministry of Human Settlements from 1968 to 1986. “Even assuming arguendo that

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PH ATHLETES AT ASEAN PARA GAMES. Filipino athletes join the parade at the opening of the 9th ASEAN Para Games held at Bukit Jalil, National Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday, September 17. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

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OpiniOn

Martial law madness

Features

FORTY-FIVE years and five presidents later, Filipinos are once again expected to appreciate the genuine meaning of democracy as they commemorate the day when former Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos declared martial law in the Philippines on September 21, 1972. However, this year’s celebrations may be different from what Filipinos are used to. Only work and classes in public offices and schools throughout the Philippines are suspended on Thursday, September 21. It is not a holiday—President Rodrigo Duterte clarified—but a “day of protest.” The president made this declaration on Tuesday, September 19, after hearing that his critics bared plans to hold rallies to condemn the killings tied to the government’s war on drugs and and his declaration of martial law in Mindanao.. For Duterte, he said that he will protest because many “yellows” (officials aligned with the opposition Liberal Party), in various government agencies are “very corrupt.” On Monday, September 18, several senators, members of the Cabinet during former Pres. Benigno Aquino III’s administration, and the Magdalo party-list group convened to launch a new multisectoral organization, #TindingPilipinas, to protest “draconian policies of the Duterte administration.” Former Civil Service Commission Chair Karina Constantino-David described #TindingPilipinas as

“a coalition of coalitions of different groups seeking to expand nationwide and reach the grassroots.” “We lay the wrongdoings we see around us on the doorstep of the President. We also recognize that he is not doing this alone and that there are many others helping him along on this destructive path for whatever motives. But the end result is the same: national degradation,” #TindigPilipinas said in a statement of unity. “We must overcome fear and apathy. We must summon our heritage of courage. We must speak out and unite in protest over the wrongs being committed,” the group added. While some leaders and their loyal followers refuse to take a breather from political quagmire to remember the September 21 martial law anniversary, there are still those who will mark this day to remember the wretched moments of the martial law era, especially for the people who have to endure it. As painful as it is, remembering lessons from the martial law inspires Filipinos to never let it happen again. To do so, Filipinos must see this day as neither a political rally nor a spiritual event.

Editorial

They must see it as a day of unity through reflective observance to move past differences and iniquities and help move the nation into the right direction.

ManilaTimes.net photo

Through these reflections, let’s hope Filipinos realize their collective goals as a nation and how every one plays a crucial role in making them come true. (AJPress)

Narcissistic personality disorder: what we need to know NARCISSISTIC. We hear this word in our The Fil-Am everyday life lately. We hear this as an Perspective adjective describing today’s generation — the “I,” “me,” and “myself.” We also hear this in Gel sAntos-relos reference to certain stages of a person’s life — when one’s consciousness and priorities revolve around him/herself more than anything else for developmental reasons. As a toddler at the age of two, the child begins to find out that he/she is a person separate from his mother, and asserts that by testing how much he/she can push people around to get what he/she wants. This is again pronounced during adolescence when teens begin to define who they are as individuals, oftentimes going against the norm or authorities to do just that. These are normal, age-appropriate phases in one’s development, but does not mean all people end up having narcissistic personality disorder. We also hear the word “narcissistic” in the news lately, used to define somebody whose thoughts, words, motivations and actions are all about him and him alone as the center of the universe. But what really is a narcissistic personality disorder as doctors and scientists define it? What are the symptoms

Commentary

Antonio ContrerAs THIS is now the season for name-calling. But lest we believe that this is a new phenomenon, we should remind ourselves that politics in the Philippines has always been divisive, passionate, partisan and personal. Thus, the deployment of ad hominem attacks on the political adversary has always been a convenient political strategy. The age of social media has only enabled a more realtime, widespread and intense exchange of insults and personal attacks. Whereas before only the name-calling committed by political personalities gets coverage by traditional media, nowadays even the vicious exchanges among supporters explode in cyberspace. It is safe to hypothesize that the reason why it is easier to unleash insulting remarks in social media is not only due to the herd mentality of viral trolling and joining the bandwagon, but also in the ease by which people

and causes of this disorder? How does it affect the person’s day to day relationships, his job, how he operates in his world? Let me share with you these facts that I got from Mayo Clinic. Do you know of anybody exhibiting these symptoms? Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental disorder in which people have an inflated sense of importance, a deep need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of ultraconfidence lies a fragile self-esteem that’s vulnerable to the slightest criticism. A narcissistic personality disorder causes problems in many areas of life, such as relationships, work, school or financial affairs. You may be generally unhappy and disappointed when you’re not given the special favors or admiration you believe you deserve. Others may not enjoy being around you, and you may find your relationships unfulfilling. Although the cause of narcissistic personality disorder isn’t known, some researchers think that in biologically vulnerable children, parenting styles that overemphasize the child’s specialness and criticize fears and failures may be partially responsible. The child may hide low self-esteem by develop-

ing a superficial sense of perfection and behavior that shows a need for constant admiration. Symptoms Narcissistic personality disorder is one of several types of personality disorders. Personality disorders are conditions in which people have traits that cause them to feel and behave in socially distressing ways, limiting their ability to function in relationships and other areas of their life, such as work or school. If you have narcissistic personality disorder, you may come across as conceited, boastful or pretentious. You often monopolize conversations. You may belittle or look down on people you perceive as inferior. You may feel a sense of entitlement — and when you don’t receive special treatment, you may become impatient or angry. You may insist on having “the best” of everything — for instance, the best car, athletic club or medical care. At the same time, you have trouble handling anything that may be perceived as criticism. You may have secret feelings of insecurity, shame, vulnerability and humiliation. To feel better, you may react with rage or contempt and try to belittle the other person to make yourself appear superior. Or you may feel depressed and moody because you fall short of perfection. Many experts use the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published

by the American Psychiatric Association, to diagnose mental conditions. This manual is also used by insurance companies to reimburse for treatment. DSM-5 criteria for narcissistic personality disorder include these features: • Having an exaggerated sense of self-importance • Expecting to be recognized as superior even without achievements that warrant it • Exaggerating your achievements and talents • Being preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate • Believing that you are superior and can only be understood by or associate with equally special people • Requiring constant admiration • Having a sense of entitlement • Expecting special favors and unquestioning compliance with your expectations • Taking advantage of others to get what you want • Having an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others • Being envious of others and believing others envy you • Behaving in an arrogant or haughty manner Although some features of narcissistic personality disorder may seem like having confidence, it’s not the same. The disorder crosses the border

of healthy confidence into thinking so highly of yourself that you put yourself on a pedestal and value yourself more than you value others. When to see a doctor When you have narcissistic personality disorder, you may not want to think that anything could be wrong — doing so wouldn’t fit with your selfimage of power and perfection. People with narcissistic personality disorder are most likely to seek treatment when they develop symptoms of depression — often because of perceived criticisms or rejections. If you recognize aspects of your personality that are common to narcissistic personality disorder or you’re feeling overwhelmed by sadness, consider reaching out to a trusted doctor or mental health provider. Getting the right treatment can help make your life more rewarding and enjoyable. Complications of narcissistic personality disorder, if left untreated, can include: • Relationship difficulties • Problems at work or school • Depression • Drug or alcohol abuse • Suicidal thoughts or behavior *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

The politics of vicious name-calling and the civility of the Marcoses can take anonymous social media identities. And even when account identities are revealed, the absence of immediate response when insults are thrown in a face-to-face encounter encourages audacity, boldness and even recklessness in people’s political discourse. After all, calling someone an idiot or a murderer, when said face to face, can lead to an episode of physical violence with blows being exchanged, eyes getting blackened and faces getting slapped, something that does not happen in social media. Many blame President Rodrigo Duterte for the further institutionalization of vitriol in our political landscape. The ease by which he cursed and used indecent language during the campaign, and even when he was already in office, has been appropriated both by his critics and his supporters as templates for their political discourse. Many supporters use it as a form of idol celebration, akin to a symbolic marker of pride in emulating the president. Supporters, with ease, unleash epithets towards critics as a political celebration and affirmation

of President Duterte’s brand of politics. On the other hand, some of his critics use vitriol to mock the president and his supporters, as a way of dramatizing their blaming Digong as being the one responsible for the degradation of civility in political discourse. And the result is a toxic political environment that can easily cause the uninitiated, but even those who are already familiar, to cringe. And the vitriolic verbal exchanges both in social media and in real time continue. Critics of the president call him as serial murderer, a child killer, an insane tyrant and a megalomaniac fascist and consider this as their moment to get back at a President who easily uses cuss words to diminish his critics, and give him a dose of his own medicine. Recently, the president alluded to Commission on Human Rights Chair Chito Gascon as being a pedophile and the Digong supporters wildly cheered. Earlier, Senator Trillanes unleashed the most disrespectful litany of ad hominem attacks on the president, and critics of the president erupted in jubilation,

including those who ordinarily would not relish being allied with the senator. The vitriol and the name-calling have breached boundaries beyond traditional politicians, to now infect ordinary cybercitizens, creative artists and academics and the perfumed elites living in gated communities. Recently, a Filipino writer based in New Zealand issued a hate list that marked other Filipino writers for targeting just because they are perceived to be pro-Duterte. And a wellknown Filipino historian in the diaspora chimed in to justify the list by suggesting that it can be a counter-narrative to the tokhang list that also brands people for targeting. I have been at the receiving end of untold calumnies and personal attacks that I have become a veteran recipient of hatred. I used to eat trolls for breakfast, but now I just simply ignore them. I must admit that I sometimes engage in a tamer version of ad hominem attacks, though I am always careful not to launch it directly at a named person, but only at a cohort or category of persons. It is just too

easy to get lost in this divided, polarized and toxic environment of name-calling. It is precisely because of this that we must commend the enormous arsenal of civility of the Marcoses, as an epitome of restraint in an otherwise blighted discursive landscape. As a family that has been severely demonized in social media memes, rally placards, history textbooks including those written by journos pretending to be historians, classroom lectures, speeches, training workshops for history teachers, creative works and artistic performances, and even homilies of priests during masses, the Marcoses provide us a powerful lesson on civility in political discourse. The Marcos political dynasty, from President Ferdinand Marcos, to his wife Rep. Imelda Marcos, to their more politically engaged children, former senator Bongbong Marcos and Gov. Imee Marcos, is a shining example of civility in political discourse. The third child, Irene-Marcos Araneta, has always been a model of dignity in silence. I have personally interacted

with and heard Bongbong and Imee during moments that they articulate their views, in prepared speeches and in informal conversations. What they offer is not hate, not rancor, not bitterness, but the ability to be civil even to people who are their most vicious critics. Imee Marcos is always restrained in talking about their political enemies, and has not launched a vitriolic counter-offensive even against Rep. Rudy Fariñas. In my personal conversation with her, she never said any demeaning word against their political enemies and critics. In the election controversy surrounding the 2016 vice-presidential elections, there is no single instance that Bongbong Marcos has directly accused Vice President Leni Robredo of being a cheat and a fraud. In saying these, I am not even exculpating the Marcoses for their alleged crimes against the people. This is something that the courts will have to settle, and for history to eventually decide. I am simply stating what is evident and cannot be distorted even by their worst critics. (ManilaTimes.net)

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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Dateline PhiliPPines

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 21-27, 2017

Senate committee ends P6.4-B shabu inquiry by Jefferson

AntipordA ManilaTmes.net

BELLS RINGING. A bell ringer looks out from the San Roque Cathedral in Caloocan on Thursday, September 14, as he rings the bells of the church. Churches in Metro Manila rang their bells last week, marking the beginning of the 40-night ritual to remember the thousands killed in President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs. The Catholic Church said bells would ring for five minutes at 8 p.m. following the appeal of Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle last September 8. Philstar.com photo

132 Filipinos repatriated from hurricane-struck Caribbean MANILA — About 132 Filipinos who were rescued from t h e h u r r i c a n e - s t r u c k B r i tish Virgin Islands, Anguilla and Sint Maartens are expected to arrive in Manila on Wednesday, Sept. 20. The Philippine government evacuated the Filipino hurricane survivors from Puerto Rico hours before Hurricane Maria entered American territory. “It was really a race against time as we had to make sure the plane takes off before Hurricane Maria slams into Puerto Rico,” Chargé d’Affaires Patrick Chuasoto said. The Philippine Airlines flight left Puerto Rico at 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday and will make a technical stop in San Francisco before

making its way to Manila. According to DFA spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar, among the Filipino evacuees are three pregnant women, two elderly passengers, an infant and a passenger who will be needing a wheelchair upon arrival. Consul Katrina Borja Martin, along with the four-team member from the Philippine Embassy in Washington, will also be on the flight. “We praise and thank God for the successful rescue and repatriation of our hurricane-stricken kababayans from the Caribbean,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said in a statement. Cayetano noted this is the first repatriation that the Philippines

undertook in the Americas as a result of a natural disaster. More than 1,000 Filipinos in Puerto Rico and other islands in the Caribbean are advised to brace for Hurricane Maria. “We strongly reiterate our advice to the Filipino communities along the path of Hurricane Maria to prepare as best as they can, follow the directives of local authorities, and track the storm’s progress,” Chuasoto said. The category 4 to 5 hurricane is forecasted to directly hit Puerto Rico with winds of 247 kilometers per hour and violent storm surges. It will also affect the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, and the US Virgin Islands. (Patricia Lourdes Viray/Philstar.com)

Live modestly, Palace tells lawmakers MANILA — Members of the House of Representatives are encouraged to live a modest lifestyle without special treatment like President Rodrigo Duterte, Malacañang said on Tuesday, Sept. 19. This comment was made following the suggestion of House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas and other Congress leaders to exempt congressmen whenever they violate minor traffic laws. “The president himself continues to observe a modest lifestyle and he seeks no special treatment whether inside or outside the Pal-

ace,” presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said. Citing Section 11, Article VI of the Constitution, Fariñas said senators and members of the House have parliamentary immunity. “A senator or member of the House of Representatives shall, in all offenses punishable by not more than six years imprisonment, be privileged from arrest while Congress is in session. No member shall be questioned nor be held liable in any other place for any speech or debate in Congress or in any committee thereof,” Fariñas told the Met-

ropolitan Manila Development Authority on Monday. Abella, however, stressed that congressmen are not above traffic rules. “Law is law... and it should be blind to all,” Abella said. Meanwhile, Bayan Muna partylist Rep. Carlos Zarate said that lawmakers should be examples of following the law. Zarate noted that employees and staff of lawmakers and other government officials are also affected by the traffic situation in Metro Manila. (Patricia Lourdes Viray/Philstar.com)

THE Senate blue ribbon committee on Tuesday, Sept. 19, ended its investigation of the P6.4-billion shabu shipment from China and will shift its focus to the “tara” (payoff) system disclosed by Sen. Panfilo Lacson in a recent privilege speech. Committee chairman Sen. Richard Gordon said with the termination of the inquiry into the illegaldrug cargo, the committee would be releasing its report based on information gathered by the panel during the nine hearings it held. “I will close the meeting on drugs but will not abandon our pursuit of the resolution of cases filed with respect to drugs,” Gordon added as he terminated the shabu shipment probe. The Senate blue ribbon panel started its investigation of the illegal shipment in July upon filing by Gordon of Senate Resolution 425. During the course of the hearings, the panel managed to uncover the multimillion-peso payoff system at the Bureau of Customs (BoC) that played a major role in allowing the entry of illegal items including prohibited drugs into the country without being detected by the bureau. It was learned that the shipment containing shabu passed through the “green lane,” or the lane where imported products are not subjected to inspection. Other lanes include the “super green lane,” the “blue lane,” the “yellow lane” and the “red lane.” The illegal shipment containing 605 kilos of shabu arrived in the country on May 16 and was declared in the BoC’s Electronic-ToMobile (E2M) Import Assessment System as kitchenware. Importer EMT Trading owned by a certain Eirene Tatad paid a total of P40,038 in taxes and on May 18 the cargo was released to the green lane even though the consignee was registered as a new importer and the cargo came from China. Under the BoC selection system, shipments originating from China automatically go through the red lane and require inspection. On May 23, the cargo left the Manila International Container Port using the trucking service provided by Customs “fixer” Mark Taguba. Three days after the release of the shipment, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service

Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the blue ribbon committee, questions resource persons during the continuation of the Senate inquiry into the smuggling of P6.4 billion worth of shabu into the country from China. He terminated the investigation on Tuesday, Sept. 19. ManilaTimes.net photo by Bob Dungo Jr.

led by its Director Neil Estrella raided a warehouse in Valenzuela City owned by Chinese businessman Richard Chen (Chen Ju Long) and seized the shabu contained inside five cylinders. There were no charges filed against those involved in the illegal shipment and investigation only started when the Senate conducted its own inquiry into the shipment. Several names were mentioned during the course of the hearing including BoC Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon, who was later accused by Lacson of being involved in the corruption at Customs. Taguba, in one of the hearings, claimed that he has to shell out P27,000 to P30,000 per container for payoff on top of legitimate fees amounting to P81,000 to make sure that his cargoes would be released without delays. Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte and brother-in-law Manases Carpio were also invited to the hearings after their names were mentioned by Taguba. Taguba told the Senate panel that he gave P5 million to Davao City Councilor Nilo “Small” Abellera as one-time enrolment fee for him to be under the protection of the so-called Davao Group at the BoC. Duterte, Carpio and Abellera denied their links to the group. Rampant corruption activities at the Customs prompted Lacson to dig deeper into the issue and was able to obtain information that put Faeldon at the center of the controversy. In a privilege speech entitled “Kita Kita,” the senator named Faeldon as among those receiving payoffs at the Customs bureau and allegedly received P100

million as “welcome gift” when he assumed as head of the BoC in July 2016. Lacson identified in his speech other officials and personnel of Customs who are on the take and private individuals who were giving “payola.” Remedial legislation Gordon said he is eyeing several remedial measures that would stop the entry of illegal drugs into the country, including the possible enactment of a law that would require a pre-shipment inspection of all cargoes. Such policy could effectively stop illegal cargoes from even leaving the port of origin. Currently there is an existing pre-shipment inspection system in place at the BoC but it only covers bulk and break-bulk cargo. The senator wants to make the policy into a law so that it cannot be easily repealed when a new administration takes over. Gordon is eyeing amendments to existing laws that will strictly require arresting authorities to immediately report drug seizures and destruction of seized or confiscated drugs to prevent the drugs from being recycled. He is considering enactment of a measure that will authorize seizure and immediate issuance of freeze orders on assets of arrested drug lords. Gordon has set the next hearing for September 25 and the panel will focus on the corruption at the Customs bureau. “We will cross over to our next investigation on the privilege speech of Senator Lacson. We will continue to pursue that [drugs]even if we terminated this case. We want to make sure that we win in the fight against drugs,” he said.

september 21-27, 2017 • LAs VeGAs AsIAN JOUrNAL

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 21-27, 2017

VEGAS&STYLE

Journal

Car Care 101

A speciAl feAture on the Automobile industry

New vs used: Which one is right for you? by elIjah

roderos AJPress

by IrIs

VIcente AJPress

Just like people who need to go to see their doctors for regular check ups, the same thing goes for cars that require basic routine care. However, many car owners think that just because their vehicle is new, they don’t need to bring it for its regular tune up yet. that mentality is wrong. You paid a lot of money for your car and you want to get your money’s worth by keeping it in good running condition for as long as you can. But just like any kind of property, you have to take care of it because it is not immune to harsh environmental elements. Whether you own a brand new luxury car or a second-hand one, the secret to its longevity is maintenance. Here are some essential tips on how to take care of your car: Regular oil change Regularly check fluids. Nothing will destroy an engine faster than neglecting oil-level checks or fresh oil changes. Oil is the lifeblood that keeps key engine components in good working condition by reducing friction and wear. Change your oil about every three months, or check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals. It’s also important to invest in good quality fluids that goes with the type of vehicle you have. Check brakes Listen to your car. Observe if there are any highpitched squeals or harsh grinding sounds. It’s important to be mindful of these things because something might be wrong, especially with the most vital function of your car: its ability to stop. Have your brakes checked annually and especially if there are delayed responses when pushing your brake pedal. Maintain tire pressure Having the right amount of pressure in your tires can prevent poor mileage, blowouts or uneven wear. Because a change in temperature can dramatically impact tire pressure, it is essential to check tire pressure with extreme weather changes, or to be on the safe side, every couple months.. Choose a good air freshener You must breathe clean and fresh air in your car.

You must beathe clean and fresh air in your car.

Just like you, your car needs basic routine care.

In choosing an air freshener, avoid those that are oilbased as it later on clogs your air filters which prevents airborne contaminants from being pulled into your car’s engine. Consider safety features Familiarize yourself with you car’s safety features things like tail and brake lights, seat belts, airbags, and anti-lock brakes are just some of the most important features that you need to familiarize with and regularly check in your car. safety features should be the first thing in consideration and should not be overlooked as this carries you and your family’s lives.

Inquirer.net photos

WHeN you finally get the chance to buy or replace your current car, a lot of thoughts go through your head. Probably one of the simplest but most important of them all: should I buy new or used car? On average, Americans spend more than $33,500 on new vehicles, as stated by the Kelley Blue Book in 2015. Meanwhile, in an article by the New York Daily News, J.D. Power said that a 2015 report showed that a standard used vehicle just costs over an average of $20,000. You have to take into consideration your wants, needs, budget and appetite for risk. We have listed the advantages of both choosing a new and used car to help you decide which taste will fit you the best.. Advantages of new cars Latest gizmos and advanced safety features. One of the many and given benefits of buying a new vehicle is you can get your hands on the latest technology, including things like Apple Carplay, and Android Auto. the multimedia and navigation interfaces are updated to cater the needs of its owners. Vehicle safety laws are stringent more than ever, thus automakers comply by equipping cars with safety systems. tire pressure monitoring is mandatory in the u.s. since 2012, and so is stability control, too. Other technologies that not mandated are blind-spot monitoring systems, side curtain airbags, adaptive cruise control, and brake assist are also available on less expensive vehicles. Full efficiency and lower emissions. Fuel costs are the major component of car’s ownership and every new model introduced is becoming more fuel efficient while simultaneously getting more powerful. there are also new crops of diesel vehicles that are cleaner, and growing hybrid segments, if that’s your choice. No wear and tear. You’ll know

Before deciding between a new or used car, you must consider your needs, budget and appetite for risk. Inquirer.net photo

that your new ride comes along with a clean history, has never been in accident, has no wear and tear, and has a lesser chance for any uncorrected recalls. Plus, purchasing a new car comes off with warranty coverage for the first three years or 36,000 miles, or whichever comes first. this will give you predictable cost of ownership without any risk of huge repair bill. You can also have your car made-to-order, or the way you want it. With so many versions to choose from, you’ll likely find a car in a lot, or have your local dealer search for the exact model, option list, trim level, and color you are looking for. Financing. Banks offer lower financing rates on new cars because they cost more and have not yet hit depreciation. But keep in mind, lower interest rate still applies to larger sum or payment. If you plan to finance, check your deals first before buying. Advantages of a used car Lower price and depreciation. Cars lose value each passing month and mile. some models, according to Car and Driver, can lose up to 40 percent or more of their value in the first year. When the costly depreciation hits,

the first owner will be the one likely to absorb it. A used car is less expensive and by that, it can allow you to step up to a nicer model. Purchasing used cars will also save you from sales taxes and insurance premiums since the value of the vehicle will be lower. You’ll have save money more even though the interest is a bit higher. Anticipate potential problems. You can have predicted reliable information available to compare cars, unlike new models that are out for just a couple of years. By checking the research and rankings of the car you are considering, you’ll know the potential problems and how to avoid them. When deciding to buy a new or second hand car, you have to arm yourself with information to get you the best deals and secure your money now and down the road. It is also wise to always check the ranking of new cars stacking up with their peers, and compare used vehicle rankings in different years against each other. You can also use some online car payment and affordability calculator to plan your car buying budget on trusted sites.

B september 21-27, 2017 • LAs VeGAs AsIAN JOUrNAL a special feature on the automobile industry

Bang for your buck: Tips for buying a new car By eliJah

roderoS AJPress

WheTher it is your first time or you are replacing an old one, buying a car is a daunting task. Aside from the fact that cars are getting more expensive, the process also gets more confusing and complicated with new models and features that come out. It also can sometimes be frustrating haggling with salesmen or a dealer. Of course, as the buyer, you want to get the best value for your money. So whether you are deciding to have a new car or are resorting to a used vehicle, you need to be aware of how the buying process works. We’ve listed the best car-buying tips that will help you get the best deal, and hopefully reduce the anxiety with purchasing a vehicle: 1. Do extensive research Next to buying a house, purchasing a car is probably one of the most important investments you will make in your life. You will be paying it in the next four, five or six years so make sure you will be getting the most out of your cash. You can start of by searching online. Auto Trader, Consumer reports, the Kelley Blue Book, and Yahoo! Autos section are great places to start researching cars in your price range, as Money Crashers suggested. Also, if you are going to purchase a new car, make sure to get the “invoice” price of the vehicle and not the Manufacturer Sample retail Price (MSrP). This way, you can have your research handy, in case negotiations take place. On the other hand, if you are choosing to buy a second-hand car, research on recent resale prices for the specific model. This data will give you a heads-up and major bargaining power. If you plan to trade in your current car, look into the market values of your vehicle, and reserve it for arsenal on later bargaining. 2. Determine your budget Of course, you should buy a car that you can afford and within your budget. A good rule of the thumb, mentioned by Bankrate, is to spend no more than 25 percent of your household monthly income for all of the cars in your household. This is not only applicable to the monthly car loan payments,

how ‘green’ is your car? By Jennifer

Soriano

they are saving themselves a good amount of money while saving the environment. The United States environSharon Basel, a sustainability mental Protection Agency (ePA) spokeswoman at General Modescribes “green vehicles” as tors, said in an interview with the more efficient and less polluting New York Times that, “reducing compared to standard vehicles. waste, not creating it in the first These vehicles have lesser emisplace, is the desired end game. sions and help save fuel, which, in I’d actually like to see our revenue return, help save the environment from recycling go down. reducand your money. ing the waste streams that are In the U.S., vehicles that burn created is a neverending cycle.” gasoline and diesel fuel are still read about the brand and the main form of transportation model of your car and see if the for most people, according to the company strikes a good balance ePA. This is in spite of the fact between business and environthat “green” cars are available in mental needs. the market. Now, for those who Car brand already own a car or two, can you Manufacturers know that contell how green your car is? sumers are intelligent and can here are factors to consider: distinguish which offer genuine Greenhouse gas emissions green efforts that produce actual Fuel-powered cars produce results. Different car brands have mainly carbon dioxide on top their own way of being environof nitrous oxide and methane mental-friendly. Some companies gas. These are all harmful gases put out an annual environmental that cause the deterioration of report, while others have been both the environment and our making headway with efforts to health due to pollution. reduce the transport cost of its Curious about your car’s cars. emission? You can look up for a Others offer dealerships with particular car model’s carbon dia guarantee on end-of-life veoxide emission atwww.fueleconhicles to ensure that these are omy.gov. This site is maintained properly disposed of, while others by the ePA and Department of recycle industrial water, install energy. The ePA also gives solar panels at all their plants. recognition to cars with low emisThese are some of the initiatives sions and high fuel economy that that the car manufacturers have has gained good remarks in the developed. In the near future, Air Pollution and Greenhouse there will be more green initiascoring categories. You can also tives through constant research look at the ePA’s handy Green and development. Vehicle Guide for emission staWhat were mentioned above are some external factors that contribute to a vehicle’s “greenness.” While these contribute to the “green” factor of the car, it does not end there. The effort to “greening” your car extends to you as a driver/owner. Whether your car passed the factors mentioned above, it pays to keep up on its maintenance with regular air filter and oil changes to boost your car’s MPG significantly. There are other ways to amp up your car to become environment-friendly. Between finding the right green vehicle, owning In the U.S., vehicles that burn gasoline and diesel fuel are still the main form of transportation one and using your it responsibly, you can surely help minimize your for most people, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Inquirer.net photo car’s environmental impact. AJPress

As a buyer, you want to get the best value for your money.

but you should also take into account other vehicle costs, including fuel and car insurance. 3. Shop around It is best to visit at least one dealership before you buy to know the rock-bottom prices and compare it with other dealers. You may also explore out-of-town car dealerships as the prices differ depending on the location. Always bear in mind that financing in the dealership isn’t always the best deal. Still, you have to find the best interest rate, and it is better obtain your own financing at your bank or union than taking an automaker’s cash rebate. 4. Don’t mention your tradein According to Money Cashers, you should play your cards close to you, and in all aspects of car buying, especially when it comes to mentioning your trade in. Do not mention your trade-in not until the end of the buying process because the information maybe likely used against you. For example: Let’s say you’re looking at a $22,000 car and the dealer’s rock-bottom price for the car you’re considering is $18,000 (although he won’t share this information with you). If you have a trade-in worth $2,000, the dealer might offer to give you the car for $20,000 plus the additional $2,000 for the trade-in, for a total purchase price of $18,000. If you hadn’t mentioned your trade-in, you could have negotiated the price down to $18,000 and then told the dealer about the trade-in, resulting in a final purchase price of $16,000. Negotiate these two aspects of the carbuying process separately. First, negotiate the best possible deal

Inquirer.net photo

you can get for the car you want to buy, then go to work on getting the most for your trade-in. 5. Buy based on “purchase price” not on “monthly payments” Car dealers will always offer attractive monthly payments to potential buyers, but it is important not to be swayed by these “alluring” payments. Be sure to always negotiate in a “full” payment, and not the monthly price. Also, make sure that there are no extra or hidden costs, including various taxes, car preparation and delivery fees, and dealership costs that you won’t know about unless you ask. 6. Always test drive the car Spend time test driving the car, asa you will be driving it for the next three or five years. Make sure that you really love it, and you’re comfortable with its every feature. Don’t hesitate to ask for more time to spend behind the wheel to ensure your driving experience. experiment with the controls, and determine if the passengers will be comfortable and regular cargo will fit as well. 7. Use smart negotiating strategies Lastly, when you are ready to make a purchase and start negotiating with the price, keep in mind the discounts and deals you have researched. For a moment, forget about trading your car and focus on the value of your new car itself. In this way, you can negotiate more freely and better if you negotiate it separately. Make sure you already checked the current value of your trade-in car to determine whether you are offered a fair amount in case trade-in comes into discussion.

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

tistics, and vehicles that have earned ePA’s “SmartWay” and for a more exclusive recognition, the “SmartWay elite.” Fuel economy The fuel economy of an automobile is the relationship between the distance traveled and the amount of fuel consumed by the vehicle. The Union of Concerned Scientists explained that, “For every gallon of gasoline that is consumed, approximately 24 pounds of global warming pollution are released into the air. Drilling, refining, and distributing gasoline account for about five pounds of global warming pollution per gallon of gasoline, and burning gasoline during vehicle operation produces another 19 pounds of global warming pollution per gallon.” To simply put it, the better the miles per gallon (MPG), the lesser impact it has on the environment. The websitewww.fueleconomy. gov is a good source for mileage information on cars and trucks. Green manufacturing Apart from sustainability and innovation that focuses on a car’s efficiency, manufacturers are also including green manufacturing initiatives. In the quest to go lean, clean and green, some manufacturers have embraced a plantwide waste reduction initiative, where cars are made with minimal amount of waste, if not totally zero. There are manufacturers who are reusing and recycling auto parts. The good news is that

Inquirer.net photo

Excuses men use to buy a car and how to spot them by Jeanette ipapo-tuaSon Inquirer.net

WheTher the funds come from a conjugal pot or not, why do men feel the need to have their car purchases justified? here are some of the more common justifications men use and how to spot them: 1. It’s a bargain. Men know that women can never resist a sale. They know they are speaking our language. here is a blow-by-blow example. a. Determine the value or stumbling block. For example, cars are more costly now, or this X car is so good looking. b. A glimpse of the possibility on the horizon. After making you feel bad that he cannot have what he desires, you get a glimpse of the silver lining when he says: Did you know that “pareng XYZ” was able to buy this X car at a 20-percent discount because the seller is trying to move this inventory? You get mixed feelings after this, glad he is not buying, sad he didn’t get the bargain. c. The kill. “OMG, Pareng XYZ was able to hook me up with the seller of the X car, and he is willing to give me the same price for it for the very last, last unit. he might just add this to seal the deal: “The seller even gave me a free car-foiling service worth P200,000, so you get to choose the color.”

2. We made money. This is relatively new one, but one of the most effective. Just ask the wives of those who were part of the double-digit increase in vehicle sales this year, which sadly, I was part of. The excise tax has been a Damocles Sword for the automotive industry for about a year now. hubby’s spiel goes something like this: a. Instigating fear. “Did you see that (mentions a news agency) infographic where they show you how much the price of the car will increase because of the excise tax?” If you said no, he probably has a screenshot ready on his phone. b. hopelessness. “If they pass this excise tax, we might have a hard time buying a new car, or I will never be able to buy my dream car.” You’re probably saying, “Oh poor us!” c. The kill. “I think we need to buy this car now. Imagine, we would only pay this much, but when they pass the excise tax, the value will be raised by 20 percent to 30 percent. We can later sell it at the higher price. We get to use the car and make money in the end.” 3. It’s going to be a classic. This line works well for couples that believe in #mayforever. 4. It’s a safer choice. Now it’s time to play on your fears. a. Car or superbike? A big bike is another item in a man’s bucket list. The wind blowing in his face, wearing

leather jackets, and riding cross country is his ultimate picture of freedom. Sadly, this is also the wife’s nightmare. After agreeing to buy the car, you end up feeling that he is considerate of your feelings. b. Car or mistress? This example was given by my co-columnist, Botchi Santos, in this paper. I wonder if the same argument will work for women: “hermes Birkin or boylet?” 5. It’s my dream car. “I’ve wanted it since I was a small boy” (with matching puppy eyes). Shame on you woman for standing in between your man and his dream. And there is this all-out sneaky move if all of the above were not able to melt your heart of stone. It’s the “This is not mine, pareng XYZ just needed to park this X car in our garage.” They can tell you several reasons: “Pareng XYZ has no space.” For wives that are not into too many details, “Pareng XYZ bought this, but mareng XYZ doesn’t know.” Now you are an accomplice to the crime without knowing you are wife XYZ. This one is comparable to when you go all-out shopping, but have to secretly brings them inside the house and hide in your closet. Yes, there is a sucker born every minute, but these excuses can also work in our favor. All you need is timing. Be ready to counter to get something you’ve always wanted. Tell him that a “happy wife is a happy life.”

(702) 792-6678 • http://www.asianjournal.com

EntErtainmEnt

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 21-27, 2017

Sarah Lahbati, Richard Gutierrez expecting their second child By Elijah

RodERos AJPress

Newly-eNgaged couple Sarah lahbati and Richard gutierrez took the good news of Sarah’s pregnancy to social media on Monday, September 18. In her Instagram account, Sarah posted a picture of herself while holding an Ultrasound result, along with Richard and Zion. “we are thrilled to announce that our little family is growing. Zion is about to be a kuya!!!!! So excited for the future,” Sarah wrote. In an interview with aBS-CBN, Sarah shared that they delayed the announcement after doctors advised her to have bed rest due to concerns over her baby’s heartbeat. “Matagal na namin alam pero itinago muna namin kasi nagkaroon ng complications noong una. (We already knew a long time ago [about the pregnancy] but we kept it secret because there were complications at first,)” Sarah said. “Noong sinabi na ng doctor na okay na okay na ang heartbeat at gumagalaw na, puwede ka na mag-work ulit and go on with your routine, ayon, doon namin pinlanong i-announce. (When the doctor said that the heartbeat is really okay by that time and it’s already moving, you can go back to work and go on with your routine, from there, we planned to announce it,)” she added. She also said that the timing of her pregnancy couldn’t have been more perfect. “Tamang-tama lang ang panahon na nabuntis ako (It is really the right time that I got pregnant) because Zion is already four, and actually araw-araw na niya akong kinukulit na (he would always ask me everyday,) ‘Mama, I want a brother! I want a sister!” She added that the gender of their second child is yet to be confirmed, though Richard is hoping

Richard Gutierrez, Sarah Lahbati, and their first born Zion, are now expecting a new addition to their family. Photo from Instagram/@sarahlahbati

for a baby girl. “Basta healthy na baby, okay na ako at masaya na. Siyempre gusto nila Chard kung puwede ay magka-babae ako. That would be wonderful kasi kumpleto na kami as a family pero let’s see. (As long as the baby is healthy, then I am fine and happy. Of course, Chard and others wanted me to have a girl. That would be wonderful now that we will be complete as a family, but let’s see,)” Sarah added. The Filipino-Swiss actress also talked about her experience so far as a second-time expectant mom. “Physically ay medyo mas mahirap ngayon pero mentally mas madali kasi alam ko na kung ano i-expect ko sa changes ng body ko. (Physically, it is more challenging, yet mentally it’s much

easier since I already know what to expect on the changes of my body,)” Sarah shared. “with Zion kasi napakamaselan ko. Hindi ako makalabas ng kuwarto kasi kaunting amoy lang ng ganito, I need to go to the toilet pero ngayon mas nadadalian na ako. ([My pregnancy] with Zion is delicate. I can’t go out of my room since even with the slightest scent of this or that, I need to go the toilet but now I am at ease,)” she said. She also laughingly shared that she is currently craving for corn soup and dimsum. The engagement of Sarah and Richard took place in Switzerland, where the bride-to-be grew up. The couple announced it just last July. Sarah is expected to give birth in april 2018.

Gloria Diaz a lola for 4th time by Ricky lo Philstar.com

Isabelle with mom Gloria Diaz.

CONFIRMed: Isabelle daza is infanticipating for her and husband adrien Semblat’s first child, a year after they got married in Italy. “Belle is always very sleepy,” her mom gloria diaz told Funfare. “She’s in a relax chill mode all day and eats practically only fruits.” By June next year when she gives birth, Isabelle will make gloria a lola four times over. gloria’s son Raphael has three children with her girlfriend. “They are not married yet,” added gloria whose other daughter ava is still single. It’s a pity that Bong daza won’t be around to cuddle his fourth apo. He died last year, barely two

months before Isabelle and adrien’s wedding in which Bong’s bosom buddy former Sen. Bongbong Marcos gave the bride away. Isabelle is one of the so-called “It girls” together with Solenn Heussaff and georgina wilson who got married ahead of Isabelle to Nico Bolzico (Solenn) and arthur Burnand (georgina). a first cousin of Isabelle, georgina beat her “It” colleagues to the maternity ward. She delivered a baby boy early this year. after the wedding, Isabelle took an indefinite leave from showbiz (last seen in the Kapamilya soap “Tubig at langis”). The couple lives in the Philippines where he works as head of adidas Philippines.

Aiko Melendez more blessed when loveless

SATURDAY, SEPT. 23 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

by Ricky lo Philstar.com

BelIeve it or not but aiko Melendez has been fancy-free for one year and two months now (after she broke up with her foreigner boyfriend) and it’s something unusual in a field like showbiz where changing partners is as common and as regular and as natural as changing one’s underwear. “I am more blessed when I have no love life,” claimed aiko who has survived two marriages, the first to Jomari yllana by whom she has a son (andre, 18) and the second to Martin Jickain who left her with a daughter (Marthena, 11). “I focus on work and there’s no distraction. at 41, having a man in my life is the least of my concerns. Been there, done that.” as you must have heard or read (including in this corner), aiko is riding high as a contravida in “wildflower,” the Kapamilya teleserye with Maja Salvador in the titular role. “we achieved the highest rating ever for a local soap,” aiko proudly heralded, “and that was for the black wedding episode where Maja’s character wore black,” probably a nod to the classic Jeanne Moreau starrer The Bride wore Black. “we are happy that our soap is being watched by many people.” Besides “wildflower,” aiko is also busy with two indies, “Tell Me your dreams” which is “a gift to teachers” and “Balatkayo” in which she plays an OFw who has to rush home from Singapore when her son gets involved in a sex scandal while her husband remains in dubai with his mistress. “I admit that it is hard to be a single parent and a career woman but I can manage,” admitted aiko, adding that she has stopped wishing that ex-husband Jomari would do his share in raising their son “since he is busy with politics,” as aiko also said in a previous Funfare interview. But unlike other

Lion Dance & Taiko Performances Traditional dance & music Face painting & craft • Food vendors Aiko Melendez with children Andre (by ex-husband Jomari Yllana) and daughter Marthena (by ex-husband Martin Jickain). Photos from Instagram/@aikomelendez

(bitter) showbiz wives who deny their ex-husbands’ access to their kids, aiko is not selfish. “Jom is welcome to check on andre anytime. andre is also eager to see his dad. He really reaches out. Just recently, andre spent time with his lola vicky (garchitorena, Jomari’s mom).” aiko said she feels lighter without any emotional baggage that hampers one’s journey through life. “what for?” she asked. “Oh yes, I am good friends with Martin’s wife Maggie Tirol. we share confidences and we tell each other our secrets. Maggie is a good stepmom to Marthena.” Since andre is fast growing up and has embarked on a showbiz career (managed by Ogie diaz), aiko is all eyes and all ears especially when it comes to the boy’s love life. “I used to know andre’s password so I could check on his social media activities pero nabuking niya ako so he changed his password, and now I can’t snoop anymore,” laughed aiko. “I advise andre not to fall in love muna and to concentrate on his career. I should know. I first fell in love when I was 18.” In the next breath, aiko recalled her “episode” with aga Muhlach (almost 10 years aiko’s senior, now happily married to

Charlene gonzalez with whom he has twins). “I was about 14 when I did a movie called Too young with aga, directed by Peque gallaga. He waited for me to turn 18 before he started courting me. well, ‘yon ang pagkakaalam ko sa kuwento niya. I was 18 when we worked together on another movie, ‘May Minamahal,’ at niligawan na niya ako. I knew it when he began giving me gifts…chocolates which were my favorite.” local (such as Chocnut) or imported? “Both,” said aiko, blushing. “Mostly goya which was my favorite at that time. I wondered aloud, ‘Bakit kaya ako binibigyan ng chocolates ni Kuya aga?’ when he heard that, aga kunwari scolded me, ‘don’t call me kuya, ha!’ He knew that I loved playing drums so he gifted me with a set of drums. I was already 18, nasa tamang edad na, kaya sinagot ko siya and we went steady for eight months.” Soon after aga, Jomari entered aiko’s life. “Hayun,” she blushed some more. “Nabuntis ako (kay andre).” lesson learned? “I pass it on to andre. I told him that I was 18 when I fell in love and that was what happened. Kaya dapat hindi niya ako gayahin.”

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Maymay and Edward: Onwards and upwards by Gabbie

TaTad Philstar.com

MayMay Entrata and Edward Barber, both off the “Pinoy Big Brother” circuit, are the newest talk of the town. Both known for their equally cheerful demeanor, the two gravitated towards each other in the Big Brother house and formed a rather unique friendship. Both have had dreams of becoming real actors, and this past week sees it come to fruition with the release of their first film, “Loving In Tandem,” a feature debut they share with first-time film director Giselle andres. Their chemistry is unmanufactured, in that they clearly enjoy each other’s company and consistently josh around. But to love them in tandem, so to speak, one first has to know them separately. Entrata is your classically beloved home girl hailing from Cagayan De Oro. She is God-fearing, loyal to her family, endearing in every possible way, and overflowing with good vibes. She’s straightforward, funny, and extremely sweet without being pa-sweet. Her sincerity runs through every interaction quite clearly, and it is the key to her charm. yet even with such a bubbly persona, breaking into show business turned out to be quite tough for Entrata. “Bata pa lang ako gustong gusto ko na mag-acting. Noon pa lang, nag-aaudition ako kung saan saan, basta matanggap lang ako,” Entrata says with a laugh. She’s auditioned for anything and everything since she was 14, for reality shows and singing contests (the girl has quite a voice). at 20 years old, she emerged the winner of “Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky 7,” having faced six years’ worth of rejection and heartache to get to where she is now. Her thirst for growing in her craft, however, is undeniable. She’s known for sending messages to more established stars for advice. Her admiration for talented actors is so high that she says she doesn’t mind being a background talent, sweeping floors, just to be able to see how these people work. Huge talents like yeng Constantino, Sarah Lahbati, angel Locsin, Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla and Enrique Gil have all dispensed their own advice to the hungry Entrata. But one piece of advice she holds most dear is from none other than Liza Soberano, who told Entrata, “Huwag na huwag kang magsisimula hangga’t hindi mo pa

EMPLOYMENT

Edward Barber and Maymay Entrata of Pinoy Big Brother release their first feature film “Loving in Tandem”. Philstar.com photo by Regine David

nahuhuli yung emosyon.” Barber, on the other hand, is a 17-year-old who packed up his life in Germany and moved to Manila to start a career in local entertainment. He talks about the three major criteria in becoming a local star: singing, dancing, and acting. He says he isn’t much of a singer and never claimed to be. He manages the dancing to a decent extent. But his great love is really acting, and it is the very reason he’s here. “I’d have no reason to stay in this industry if I didn’t have acting. This movie was really the biggest thing that could’ve happened to me,” says Barber. (Funnily enough, he also says that he never really set out to be the main guy, but rather the “hype man” type of best friend to the main guy. “I wanted to be the guy who was like, ‘Just do it, bro! Stop being stupid and talk to her!’”) There is a decisiveness about him and a sort of wisdom that isn’t largely common in boys his age (or even beyond, if we’re being honest). He is not of the quiet, brooding sort, but there is a clear depth to him that cloaks his cheery disposition in a healthy measure of mystery. He confesses to being something of a writer, telling us that he carries with him little notebooks where he jots down ideas, character points and plot lines for different stories of different lengths. Entrata says that he’s allowed her to have a peek and says that he is quite brilliant, that his imagination goes to places hers would never dare to go and dreams up worlds that she would never have thought possible.

Right now, everything to them is still new, and their biggest hurdle is getting used to the run of the mill. Their projects and taping days have been back to back to back, and the days have begun to blur together. “We had four days where we were working every day — rehearsing, shooting, dubbing. Someone told me it was Sunday, and I was like, ‘It’s Sunday?!’,” Barber laughs. “I’ve never worked harder on anything in my life.” Entrata adds that the sleep deprivation was starting to get to her, but it was Barber and the people around her who also remind her how hard she fought for what she has. Their gratitude for their present circumstances, however, is shared and it runs deep. Barber recalls his last day of shooting, saying, “I was there until 5:20 in the morning, and I got to the car, and I sat there and I thought, ‘I just finished a movie.’ It sounds cheesy, but I never thought I would actually get to do this. It was a thing I joked about with my friends and now it’s coming true.” Entrata says that no matter how difficult it’s been getting here and no matter how difficult the job has turned out to be in comparison to her fantasies, every single thing is worth it. “Worth it lahat lahat lahat ng sakripisyo, yung sobrang pagod, yung oras, yung minsan lahat nang maibigay mo, may maibigay ka lang. Kung wala akong pangarap, madali na lang siguro sakin mag give up. Pero may pinaglalaban ka, may pangarap ka eh, kaya tuloy ka lang.”

FOR RENT

The girls of ‘The Debutantes’ (from left) Miles Ocampo, Chanel Morales, Sue Ramirez, Jane De Leon and Michelle Vito

Meet the ‘It Girls’ of horror

SuE Ramirez, Miles Ocampo, Jane de Leon, Michelle Vito and Channel Morales have been given a new collective title as the “It Girls” of horror movies. In a few weeks, they will usher in the season of chills and thrills with “The Debutantes” from Regal Entertainment. The movie serves as the five millennial actresses’ biggest break under director Prime Cruz, who

helmed the well-received “ang Manananggal sa unit 23-B,” which first premiered at the QCinema Independent Film Festival. The story of “The Debutantes” revolves around Kate (Ramirez), a friendless and weird-looking student who tries to win the friendship of fellow students Lara (Ocampo), Jenny (de Leon), Candice (Vito) and Shayne (Morales). She, however, fails miserably

in that she only gets close to one of them, Lara, while the rest of the girls find immeasurable joy in bullying her. Frustrated, Kate starts getting nightmares where here schoolmates die one after the other. She warns them about what she saw but as expected, they ignore her. Eventually, Kate discovers that she plays a key role in her schoolmates’ deaths once PAGE B6

The story behind Robin Padilla’s tattoo yOu have heard how, according to Robin Padilla, he was “barred” from leaving for China as invited guest by the Sultanate of Sulu to an important event there. He said that when he was granted conditional pardon (he was jailed at the National Penitentiary for illegal possession of firearms), he didn’t have any problem leaving the country. “and now that I have been granted absolute Pardon (by Pres. Du30),” Robin was quoted as saying, “saka pa ako nagkaroon ng hold order. Wala akong makitang dahilan maliban sa tattoo ko na dragon.” (The Bureau of Immigration denied that Robin was “barred” from leaving but his name is still in the Watchlist database system and what he needs is a “clearance to travel” from BI.) Now, about the tattoo. according to Robin’s manager

Robin Padilla’s controversial dragon tattoo.

Betchay Vidanes, “Robin believes that the Chinese dragon tattoo provides luck and protection against evil. at sabi ng tattoo artist, kaya

SERVICES

katabi ng tattoo ang mga pangalan ng mga anak ni Robin. Those were the days na allowed pa siya magpatattoo.” (Ricky Lo/Philstar.com)

Community Journal

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Critical changes under the Trump administration for Orders of Supervision and administrative stays of deportation Your Immigration Solution Atty. MichAel Bhotiwihok & Atty. NANcy Miller During the Obama administration, noncitizens with deportation or removal orders (referred to hereafter as deportation orders) were often allowed to stay in the united States through the grant of an administrative stay and Order of Supervision (“OSuP”). Provided that they appeared for regularly scheduled appointments with immigration and Customs Enforcement (“iCE”), noncitizens lived with their families and worked in the united States without the fear of deportation. under the Trump administration’s new immigration policies, noncitizens with deportation orders have become prime targets for arrest, detention, and removal from the united States when they appear for their scheduled checkins. individuals with existing deportation orders can be more quickly removed from the united States than noncitizens who have never been placed in removal proceedings. under the Obama administration, administrative stays were generally granted for one year to individuals who were not enforcement priorities. under the current policy, iCE is only granting administrative stays for a limited time and only when there is a clear end game or purpose, for example the noncitizen is attempting to reopen his removal case or is applying for legal status in a third country or can show concrete plans to return home. While iCE still considers requests for an administrative stay on an individual basis, it appears that efforts are being increased for noncitizens to produce travel documentation to return them to their home countries. This is especially evident when considering the Trump Administration’s

desire to increase deportations to fulfill promises made during the 2016 Presidential Election. iCE has the authority to decide, upon request, not to execute a final order of removal and to instead issue an Order of Supervision requiring noncitizens to appear at check-ins with iCE on a monthly or yearly basis. The administrative stay allows the noncitizen with an order of deportation to remain in the united States for a specified period without fear of deportation. While noncitizens have an automatic stay during the pendency of an appeal with the Board of immigration Appeals, the filing of a petition for review in Federal Court does not provide the same automatic stay. An administrative stay is often necessary when appeal rights have been exhausted and no other legal recourse is available to the noncitizen. Administrative stays must be filed in person with the local office of Enforcement and removal Operation (“ErO”) with iCE having jurisdiction over where the noncitizen lives. if the administrative stay is approved, the noncitizen will be placed under an Order of Supervision and required to appear for check-ins with iCE. Administrative stays are granted at the discretion of the ErO officer. Therefore, administrative stays must be properly prepared with strong supporting documentary evidence. Positive equites like the noncitizen’s familial ties to the united States, employment, prior payment of income taxes, contributions to community, any hardship, and future forms of relief from removal must be demonstrated. A noncitizen with a pending motion to reopen and rescind a prior order of deportation or removal may convince an ErO officer to grant an administrative stay. in addition, a noncitizen with an approved family based petition whose priority date is not current, dependent on eligibility to adjust status to that of a lawful permanent resident, may also merit the

positive exercise of discretion with the granting of an administrative stay. As in other cases where a non-citizen is seeking a benefit, the burden of proof is on that non-citizen to show that she merits a favorable decision. Apart from not being removed from the united States, an administrative stay offers other benefits to noncitizens with deportation orders. With an approved administrative stay, noncitizens can obtain work authorization and the ability to apply for a social security card and driver’s license. Also, while the administrative stay is in effect, the noncitizen may be able to avail to any change in the law or become eligible for relief from removal. This seismic shift in immigration policy has created fear and anxiety for noncitizens with orders of deportation or removal, because of the very real possibility of their being detained and removed from the united States. However, individuals with Orders of Supervision must continue to report to iCE for their regular check-ins. Failure to do so can result in iCE going to get them at home or place of employment. The prospect of a noncitizen’s deportation is terrifying. given the recent change in immigration policy and developments, it is strongly advised that noncitizens consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney for representation at Order of Supervision appointments and to determine if filing an administrative stay of deportation or removal with iCE’s local ErO office in in their best interests. *** Reeves, Miller, Zhang & Diza Law Corporation’s offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 21-27, 2017

Calendar of Events across

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS S E p t E m b E R 23

Celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila in North Hills, CA Come celebrate with us! The Archdiocese of Los Angeles Filipino Ministry San Fernando Region invites all to the 9th regional celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila on Saturday, Sept. 23 at Our Lady of Peace Parish (15444 Nordhoff St., North Hills, CA). It starts with a procession at 4:15 p.m. and mass at 530 p.m. The Principal Celebrant is Most Rev. Gerald Wilkerson, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus. A reception and program follows right after mass at Schneider Hall. For a schedule of the nine-day novena masses prior to the event, please call Christine Hart at (818) 612-5060 or Patty Santiago at (818) 472-4288 or email Betty Defensor at bettydefensor@yahoo.com.

S E p t E m b E R 24

3rd annual Kultura: Filipino-American food & arts festival in Chicago Kultura Festival is a contemporary Filipino-American food and arts festival taking place at Logan Square’s Emporium Arcade Bar (2363 N. Milwaukee Avenue) on Sunday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Carefully curated to appeal to those who personally identify with Filipino culture and the merely curious or uninitiated, Kultura Festival aims to highlight the best in Filipino-American food and arts in Chicago and around the Midwest. Kultura Festival signals the start of Filipino-American History Month, a nationally commemorated holiday every October since November 2009, with the passage of U.S. House Resolution 780 and Senate Resolution 298. Kultura Festival will showcase Chicago and Midwest-based FilipinoAmerican chefs such as Hapa Chicago (Chicago),Meat on the Street (Milwaukee), and Sarap Detroit (Detroit), Guerrilla Street Food and Skip To Malou (both from St. Louis), as well as Chef Sharwin Tee of Lifestyle TV’s Curiosity Got The Chef (Manila, Philippines). Additional chefs and the full festival menu will be soon announced. The curated menu promises to tantalize festival-goers with a wide variety of chef-prepared Filipino and Filipino-inspired dishes between $5 and $7 each. Filipino American artist-entrepreneurs will offer their unique wares for purchase at the festival: custom tailored barong Tagalog (traditional formal wear) from New York Citybased Pineapple Industries; artwork, books and apparel based on the prePhilippine script, baybayin, from San Francisco-based expert Kristian Kabuay; and clothing, jewelry and accessories centered around indigenous symbols and spirituality from Los Angeles-based Ginto Seeds. This year, Kultura Festival patrons can learn about the connections between Filipino cuisine and culture. Admission to the Lechon Lectures, hosted in adjacent The Upside Down pop-up bar, is included with Kultura Festival ticket. Two time Hugo award winning editor of Uncanny Magazine Michi Trota leads a panel discussion on the role of food in science fiction and fantasy storytelling and how Filipinx creators in these genres integrate food and cultural identity into their own work. Descriptions of the full Lechon Lectures lineup and schedule will soon be announced. As in previous years, Filipino American DJs will provide the soundtrack for the festivities (schedule TBA). Kultura festival general admission tickets are available for $20 ($15 ticket plus 5 Kultura dollars) online at https://ti.to/filipino-kitchen/kultura-2017. Discounted general admission tickets are available for students with ID, senior citizens with ID, and children under 13 years of age. More information can be found at http://filipino.kitchen/kultura-festival/.

SEptEmbER 30

PeDRO celebrates its 13th anniversary with a fundraising dinner dance The Philippine Disaster Relief Organization, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation invites everyone to “A Dinner to Remember” with surprise guests on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Crystal Ballroom, Quiet Cannon, 909 N. Via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Free parking; $55 cost and formal attire. Maricar and the 4700 Band will provide musical entertainment with DJ George Cunanan. For more information, contact President Archerie Calunod (714) 655-4285 or PRO Bettie Francisco (323) 828-7648.

SF Assessor Carmen Chu’s free Family Wealth Forum Free one-on-one counseling with experts. Multi-lingual workshops. Exhibitors hall from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at City College (Ocean Campus), 50 Phelan Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94112. To register: http://sfassessor.org/familywealthforum or call (415) 554-7434.

O c tO b E R 7

A3M Starnight 2017 annual gala in Long Beach, CA In the past 25 years, A3M has given hope and a second chance of life to many patients. Their journeys have inspired and motivated the organization to continue its mission of increasing and diversifying the Be the Match Registry. A3M is committed to supporting patients from the communities that are underrepresented in the Be the Match Registry. To continue its life-saving work, you are invited to support A3M at its Annual Gala Dinner held on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach (200 South Pine Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802) from 5 to 9 p.m. To purchase tickets, please visit https://www.flipcause.com/secure/ event_step2/MTk3NjI=/13381.

Town mates and Friends:

Please join us in celebration of our

508/ '*&45" TU '06/%*/( "//*7&34"3: 0' #"4$ JO -"4 7&("4 /&7"%" When: Saturday, October 7, 2017 Where: Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, 400 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103 Prepaid Dinner Buffet ticket only: $65 per person Please make check payable to: Aludiya Lagmay-Ganzon 8119 Mary E Ellen Avenue, North Hollywood, California 91605 - or Priscilla Castaneto-Ruedas 6851 Dale Street Apartment # 16, Buena Park, California 90621

City of Carson’s Filipino-American History Month Kick-Off The City of Carson will kick off this year’s Filipino-American History Month on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the CJMM Community Center at Carson (801 E. Carson St., Carson, CA 980745). From 8 to 9 a.m., there will be refreshments at the Community Center East Parking Lot. It will be followed by a wreath laying at Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s monument from 9 to 9:15 a.m. From 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. there will be a program at the Carson Dominguez Room. For more information, please call (310) 952-1743.

O c tO b E R 1 4

26th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.

18th Annual Asian Small Business Expo in Alhambra, CA On Saturday, Oct. 14, the 18th annual Asian Small Business Expo will be held at the Almansor Court Conference Center (700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801), featuring free workshops, exhibitors, networking opportunities, and more! Jonny Hwang, founder of 626 Night Market, is the featured guest speaker with special guest, Jerome Horton, chairman of the California Board of Equalization. It is FREE to attend! The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. For more information, please visit http://www.apisbp.org/expo.html.

O c tO b E R 2 1

City of Carson’s 8th Annual Larry Itliong Day Celebration Join the City of Carson for its 8th annual celebration of Larry Itliong Day on Saturday, Oct. 21 with a parade and program. Assembly time begins at 8 a.m., with the parade from 9 to 9:30 a.m. The program will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. It will be held at Veterans Park at 22400 Moneta Avenue, Carson, CA 90745. Admission is FREE. For more information, please call (310) 952-1743.

Nazario Perlas: Precy Castaneto- Ruedas:

nazario.perlas@yahoo.com pcruedas@yahoo.com

Lito Tambo: Ludy Lagmay-Ganzon: Mila Tadina:

lito.tambo@sbcglobal.net lganzon@gmail.com mrtadina@yahoo.com

Josie Dolor Etrata: wilpenn@yahoo.com Mary Ann Arichea–Caunan: macaunan@ha.ucla.edu *Discounted Room rates available at Gold Coast Hotel & Casino until September 3, 2017: Code: ABA2017

NaFFAA to celebrate 20th anniversary in Washington, DC The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) turns 20 years old this year. This October, several events are being planned to celebrate this milestone, which coincides with the national observance of Filipino American History Month. They will culminate with NaFFAA’s 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 21. With its theme “NaFFAA 2.0: One Voice, Four Million Strong,” NaFFAA will recognize the legacy and accomplishments of the organization over the past 20 years, and highlight its comprehensive vision to unite and amplify the voices of the four million Filipinos living in the United States. “NaFFAA 2.0” represents how NaFFAA is honoring its past while forging a new forward-thinking and balanced approach in uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse Filipino American individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. To learn more about NaFFAA or to purchase tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala, please visit www.naffaa.org.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

Features

B september 21-27, 2017 • LAs VeGAs AsIAN JOUrNAL

John Lloyd Cruz and his ‘greatest nemesis’ – social media By Monet

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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA

(3rd of 4 parts)

Being a famous celebrity has its perks. And then there’s social media. But this is now the world we live in. We post photos of ourselves even in our most vulnerable moments, we share our thoughts regardless of its tendency to be misread or misinterpreted and in doing so, we forget the most important thing – our life becomes another person’s problem, another person’s entertainment. i am not saying that social media is the culprit. But for famous people — case in point: John Lloyd Cruz, social media can be, at best, his greatest nemesis; at worst, his downfall. A series of videos of his trip with rumored new girlfriend ellen Adarna surfaced online. And once again, John Lloyd Cruz became the subject of netizens. Some have speculated that he was highly intoxicated and couldn’t handle himself. it doesn’t take a genius or a behaviorist to know that the guy was clearly not his usual jolly self or the goody-two-shoes person he usually portrays in his movies. We’ve seen it all over the internet. And mixed reactions flooded the comments. Some say that it is just normal for anyone to have fun on vacation, get drunk and do embarrassing things — off or in front the camera phone. Philippine Star columnist Ricky Lo wrote: “So what’s wrong with John Lloyd Cruz having a good time with friends at a resort in Cebu? So what if JLC is shown in those videos apparently inebriated, flashing the middle finger while swinging his head, holding a knife aloft and then dropping it to the table, and sitting beside a row of LPg tanks? JLC was just like any normal person making fun of himself and his companions (including his rumored girlfriend ellen Adarna) while having fun. You and i would do the same things (if not something more “shocking”) during an outing, wouldn’t we? JLC was doing it in private, as a private person, and not in front of cameras as a public property. He has been working very hard and he deserved to enjoy himself (away from the camera and far, far from the maddening crowd) any way he wants to. Really now,

John Lloyd Cruz

JLC has nothing to apologize for. Whoever uploaded those videos is the one who owes especially JLC an apology, and he should do it pronto!” As for his mother-station, ABSCBn issued the statement, “JLC works hard as an actor…18-hour days at a stretch. He was just letting off some steam. in this age of an all-pervasive social media, what is ok and innocent in private becomes worthlessly controversial in public. He will have learned his lesson to be more careful in the future.” While for others, the drunken videos and the “finger” left nothing to be desired and felt that the actor should have known better than to let himself be exposed in that state. This wasn’t the first time that John Lloyd was involved in an alcohol-related controversy. i remember the rumors circulating about him not being able to handle his alcohol. i’m pretty sure that in every rumor there’s some truth to it. i am not going to say he never drinks or he’s always wasted. i do not know him personally but i have hung out with him and some friends once at a club. i’ve seen him sober and i’ve seen him drunk. But in both times, he just keeps forgetting the most important thing –he is a public figure and that cameras are everywhere. Celebrity faux pas and social media just don’t mix. no matter what celebrities do, people would

have opinions on how they should act, dress, who they should or shouldn’t be with or basically how to live their lives. That’s just the cost of being famous. And this is something JLC keeps learning (usually) the hard way. He recently posted an apology on his instagram page saying, “diz iz mi lerning. very humbling but i do apologize to the little boys & girls. no regrets babies just life revealing its raw beauty.” i think it is big of him to issue an apology but i am really hoping that first, he learns how to handle the demands of being a public figure. Secondly, whether or not he drinks too much, he has to be responsible to know the difference and try his best to handle it. My message for him — and to everyone who can relate to him is that i realize as i end this piece that social media is not your greatest nemesis, it is yourself. it is when you’re at your worst that you (should) start to fight ‘yourself’ before it takes over the good version of you. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

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TRUST your own instincts. Your own personal experience will color the lens with which you view and relate with your personal guardian angel. god so loved the world, He sent His only son to redeem us from sin and death so we may gain eternal life — not unlike His angels. Then He sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and enlighten us. But on the micro, day-by-day level, god sent us our personal guardian angels from conception, birth, throughout our life and our passage from death to eternal life as a constant presence. Come to think of it, every time an unborn life is cut down, the murder deprives an angel of his purpose. There must be some cosmic angst and turmoil in the heavens. There must be anguish and pain, a disturbance, not only

Angels among us “I think we all do have a guardian angel. I believe they work through us all the time, when we are thoughtful and good and kind to each other.” — Roma Downey on earth but also in the celestial realm. Some say god created so many angels, one cannot count the number of angels that can stand on the head of a pin. But there is a caveat to this gift from the Almighty. One must accept the gift and use the gift of the presence of angels in one’s life for good and only good. One must be humble of heart to know that by ourselves we can do nothing of real value to ourselves or our loved ones and ultimately find god in our lives without asking in earnest for help from the spiritual, unseen realm of angels. Yes, the key is to ask for help for one to receive it. Also, one must never take the gift of a personal guardian angel for granted. An angel is an invisible pres-

ence that must be acknowledged to become ever stronger. god sends angels to keep watch over human beings and help them in every human challenge. There is, however, the element of free will in humans. You can acknowledge the presence of angels or deny it. it is your choice ultimately. The more angels are acknowledged and become a conduit to heaven, they become a hovering, guiding reality in one’s life growing ever stronger in their influence to shape every thought, word and deed in one’s life. (To be continued …) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com

Are you a candidate for a stroke? Health@Heart PhiliP S. ChuA, Md, FACS, FPCS in the United States, one person is diagnosed with a stroke every 40 seconds. This dreaded and debilitating illness is so common it victimizes more than 2,000 individuals each day and killis about 133,000 each year. in the Philippines, the prevalence is between 1.9 to 6.59 percent. i have friends who had developed a stroke of one type or another, with varying degrees of severity. it is a life-changing ailment that adversely affects the life of the entire family involved, especially the spouse. if the victim is the breadwinner, the devastation is even greater. Prevention is best, and luckily about 80 percent of stroke is preventable, but when it happens, speedy diagnosis and treatment spells the difference between full or partial recovery, minor or major residual disability. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of major disabilities among adults. What are the types and causes of a stroke? To simplify it for our layman readers, the most common two types and causes of a stroke are artery blockage or bleeding. Arterial obstruction (carotid “neck” artery stenosis) is due to arteriosclerosis (hardening of the artery), which could cut off circulation to the brain. The other form of arterial blockage is from a clot coming from the heart moving up to block a brain artery (usually among persons with atrial fibrillation, where the left upper chamber of the heart quivers instead of beating normally, thus accumulating clots in the left atrium, which could break off and flow upwards to obstruct the brain artery). The second type of a stroke is caused by bleeding on top of the brain from a fall (trauma) or bleeding within the brain tissues itself, which is more dangerous. What is Atrial Fibrillation? Popularly known as A-Fib, atrial fibrillation is the most common type of heart irregularity. Some are related to heart valve disease. About 6.4 million Americans have A-Fib not related to any heart valve problem. A-Fib increases the risk for a stroke by five times. The actual cause of A-Fib is not clear. it is more common among seniors and 10 percent of adults 80 years and older have A-Fib. The patient may have no symptom at all and not know

they have A-Fib. The common symptoms are tiredness and shortness of breath. Most patients feel their heartbeat skips once in a while. A-Fib won’t go away on its own. To reduce the risk of heart failure or a stroke, medical consultation is mandatory. What is TIA? Transient ischemic Attacks (TiA) is the temporary episode of a mild stroke that disappears rapidly. This is caused by spasm of an artery to the brain or by a tiny soft clot that blocks an artery to the brain, which dissolves spontaneously, allowing normal circulation to resume. TiA is a warning, and immediate medical attention is warranted. The various imaging studies available for carotid arteries (located on the left and right side of the neck which supply blood to the brain) include ultrasound (and doppler), and if these are not diagnostic or clear, one of the following may be used: angiography, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and CT angiography. What is carotid endarterectomy? When a person develops TiA or a mini-stroke and confirmatory tests show there is significant blockage in one or both carotid arteries, the calcified plaques blocking these neck arteries could be removed by a surgical procedure called carotid endarterectomy. This is a brainsaving procedure which must be performed reasonably urgent, in accordance with the evaluation of the surgeon, before a major or massive stroke follows. Can a lay person diagnose a stroke? A non-medical individual, actually anyone at the scene, could make a rapid diagnosis using the acronym FAST. in most articles, this stands for Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services. For me, i prefer T for Tongue deviation, all four letters to represent physical abnormalities. Calling 911 for emergency rescue is vital. But any two of the above four signs are enough to suspect a stroke. Facial drooping becomes evident when you ask the person to smile. Comparing the strength of the two arms will show you which side is weaker. Asking the patient to talk will reveal slurred speech or inability to talk. The tongue usually points to the side of the facial droop and the weaker arm, opposite the side of the brain affected. The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body, and the left half of the brain, the right side of the body. The active dynamics of the pathology must be assessed without delay and treatment started immediately. Brain cells could die within minutes. in

a stroke, every minute counts. Do you have the risk factors for a stroke? genetics is one, but since we cannot alter our genes as a standard of care for stroke prevention with our current science and technology, there practical strategies we can apply to minimize the risk for the development of a stroke. Someday, preventive genetic engineering and manipulation for all diseases will be available. in the meantime, here are some tips to greatly reduce the risk for having a stroke, heart attack, and even cancer, basically by living a healthy lifestyle or making necessary lifestyle changes. • eat healthy, mostly fish, vegetables of various colors, nuts, and some fruits. Minimize intake of red meats (especially processed foods, which are toxic to the body) and cut down on carbohydrates, like rice, bread, sweets in general, which catapults the risk for T2 diabetes. The Philippines has one of the highest rates for T2 diabetes in the world, courtesy of “kanin.” The no-rice high-protein legume and vegetable diet is now becoming very popular and a trend. • Drink about eight glasses of filtered water daily. Stay away from soft drinks which are toxic and increase the risk for metabolic syndrome for children and adults. Any form of this “liquid candy” causes eight gain and is harmful to the body. • Do daily exercises. Simple brisk walking for 30 minutes each day improves overall health by strengthening muscles, equilibrium and balance, and boosts the immune system, and ward off major illness, including Alzheimer’s and even cancer. • Practice stress management with R&R, even at work, and especially during the weekend with the family • Discontinue tobacco use and take alcohol beverage in strict moderation. These two items are the causes of most of our infirmities today. They are not worth developing a stroke or heart attack for. • Regular medical and dental check-ups are essential. Take your medications religiously and follow the advice of your physician, including a low-fat, low carbs, and low-salt diet. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

Meet the ‘It Girls’ of horror

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PAGE B4 they turn 18. in real life, the female stars have a bright future ahead of them in show business given their extensive acting experiences despite their young age. Ramirez was first seen in the remake of the hit teleserye “Mula sa Puso,” which was followed by the series “Angelito: Batang Ama,” “Angelito: Ang Bagong Yugto,” “Annaliza,” “Pangako Sa ‘Yo,” “Dolce Amore,” and the ongoing horror series “La Luna Sangre” starring Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo. She was also part of the reality show “i Can Do That” besides being named Honorary Tourism Ambassador for Korea. Her film outings, meanwhile, include “Aswang,” “Just The Way You Are” and “A Second Chance.”

Ocampo, on the other hand, is a product of the kiddie gag show “goin’ Bulilit.” Like Ramirez, she’s been cast in one series after another, and appeared in a number of movies like “i’ve Fallen For You,” “ A Very Special Love,” “ You Changed My Life,” “BFF: Best Friends Forever” and “Paano na Kaya?” Vito initially made her mark as a contravida in the fantaserye “Aryana,” which was topbilled by Megan Young. A Star Magic talent, she has numerous programs on ABS-CBn to her credit and is at home in horror movies, with her experience in “Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay.” For her part, de Leon started out as part of the all-girl dance group girltrends on “it’s Showtime,” and had her first brush with acting in the fantasy series

“Wansapanataym.” Finally, Morales joins the cast as the newest Regal Millennial Baby. She first turned heads as a contestant on TV5’s “Artista Academy,” and was immediately cast in the “Wattpad Presents” series. now an ABS-CBn talent, she is part of the prime time series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano.” Together, they promise a unique brand of horror in “The Debuntates,” one that the millennial generation can relate to as it also delves into the subject of bullying in schools. Moreover, they are certain the movie will succeed in scaring its audience what with Regal entertainment a veteran in the horror genre via the country’s longest and most successful horror franchise to date, “Shake, Rattle & Roll.” (ManilaTimes.net)

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 21-27, 2017

How millennial mom Denise Laurel Annabelle entrusts Ruffa & daughters to Arnold prepares for son’s future by ricky lo Philstar.com

AFtEr a cancer scare, an engagement breakup and an emotionally draining finale for her recently concluded “the Better Half” soap opera, actress Denise Laurel will be undergoing a surgery that will take out a benign cyst on her breast. Despite all this, Denise tries to keep calm and stay strong for her son, Alejandro. “Being a mom made me the most competitive ever in my life,” the actress said while hosting a recent press con for Enfagrow. “I’ve researched more on parenting than on any role that I ever played as an actress since I’m both mom and dad.” If in “the Better Half” her character got obsessed on love for a guy, in real life, she has a different obsession. “I’m almost obsessed with everything that happens with my son, Alejandro. But I am obsessed about giving him the best. Is he doing the right activities? Is he growing fast enough? How’s his IQ?” given her experiences in life, she believes her son needs more than just IQ (intelligence quotient) to succeed in life. “I was really focused on enhancing everything that I could possibly give to him. Kasi nu’ng panahon natin ‘di ba, ang matalino ang bida? Am I right? Nu’ng panahon natin, kung sino ‘yung first honor, s’ya ‘yung may prize. or ipagmamayabang mo sa mga kaibigan mo, ‘First honor ‘yung anak ko!’ I’m beginning to learn that IQ isn’t enough anymore.” According to a study conducted by pharmaceutical giant Mead Johnson among 3,700 mothers in Asia, 91 percent of millennial mothers regarded EQ (emotional quotient) as important as IQ. Around 12 percent even said that EQ is more important than IQ. the research, said to be the first of its kind in Asia, examined the perceptions of mothers in the continent, and it reportedly has a 95 percent confidence level, so it is very accurate, said Dr. Aurorita roldan, University of the Philippines College of Home Economics Dean and professor on family life and child development. Dr. roldan said that the study shows millennial moms like Denise associate EQ with being

Actress Denise Laurel with #LittleWarrior Alejandro.

independent. For these moms, the highest indicator of success is independence. other indicators connected with EQ are empathy, ability to work well with others, and adaptability. “EQ is a way of recognizing, understanding, choosing and monitoring how we think, feel and behave – how we view and look at ourselves,” the doctor explained. “People with high EQ have a way to control themselves. EQ determines how they are in relation to themselves. EQ shapes our understanding of ourselves, our interaction with others. It also defines how and what we learn. It also allows us to set our priorities, determines majority of our daily actions, and responsible for 80 percent of the success in our lives.” Denise agrees that the first five years of life is the most crucial for Alejandro, because it is when 90 percent of brain development happens. thus, for moms like her, it is crucial to know about breakthroughs such as milk fat globule membrane (MFgM). recent studies demonstrate that MFgM plays an important role in supporting cognitive development, immunity and gut health. Moreover, a clinical study suggests that MFgM supplementation in children’s milk can positively impact behavioral regulation, specifically EQ, in young children. MFgM is now found in the new formulation of Enfagrow A+ Four. “Indeed, this is our biggest breakthrough since we first introduced DHA (Docosahexaenoic

Gabby Concepcion shows his Asian Star Prize from the 12th Seoul International Drama Awards for his work in “Ika-6 Na Utos.” Philstar.com photo by Honey Orio-Escullar

Gabby’s fruitful second coming by Honey

orio-escullar Philstar.com

gABBY Concepcion didn’t expect to bag this year’s Asian star Prize at the 12th seoul International Drama Awards for the gMA drama series “Ika-6 na Utos,” the second Filipino actor to bring home the bacon after Dennis trillo last year. “I never thought that I would win an international award. But maybe it’s a gift, thank you,” he said. In the same event, he related his encounters with some Korean big stars and producers. “Mabait naman sila but the experience is different. It’s like you’re in a different world. Para akong nag-uumpisa ulit because nobody recognized me there.” gabby said he was able to make small talk with Park Bo Young (Best K-Drama Actress) and Park Bo gum (Best K-Drama Actor) — through their interpreters — during a dinner tendered after the awarding ceremony. gabby added that some movie producers from other countries asked for his contact number. Is it possible for him to do an international movie soon? “It was unexpected. My doors are open to anything pero dito na lang muna ako (sa Philippines).” gabby recounted how he thought that his career was over when he left showbiz in the ’90s. “the reason why I came back

was just to be with my sick dad. I didn’t think that I would still have a career here. then, when I was offered a movie and a tV series, I told myself, ‘okay, meron akong income while waiting for my Dad (to get well).’” When his dad died, gabby thought that it was time for him to go back to his family in the Us where they were based. But it didn’t happen because his projects came one after another. “so, pinauwi ko na lang dito yung family ko kasi naging tuloytuloy na yung projects. I just felt overwhelmed. Bonus na lang ito (award),” he added. “I’m just so thankful with what’s happening to me because I know, sabi nga nila, in showbiz, you’re only as good as your last project. so, talagang iniigihan ko na dahil baka ito na yung huli ko.” If winning an award serves as any validation for his effort and struggles, gabby said it really did pay off. that’s why he is dedicating the award to his family, the “Ika-6 na Utos” cast and crew, and to his Kapuso family. “to continue what you’ve been doing… to keep what you love, magta-tiyaga ka talaga. Because we do this for the people that we love. I’m willing to do whatever role being offered to me because I’m here to work. Like what my father used to say, ‘Nandyan ka na lang din, galingan mo na.’ I keep it as my constant reminder.”

hilstar.com photo

acid) into our products in the early 2000s,” said Chris ritchie, general Manager of Mead Johnson nutrition, Philippines. “this allows us to help parents prepare their children, particularly in the aspect of IQ and EQ development, for the demands that the future may bring.” Mothers of Asia, said Dr. roldan, believe that they do not communicate as well their children now, thus, they think that their children have a better chance of having a brighter future than they ever did. By harnessing her child’s EQ, Denise believes that Alejandro can truly weather any storm, befitting of the hashtag she gave him: #LittleWarrior. (Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/Philstar. com)

A strong tie binds Annabelle rama and Arnold Vegafria, founded on mutual trust. that’s why when her doctor advised Annabelle to cut down on her work load and avoid stress (“If you want to live longer,” she was told), first thing she did was called Arnold (head of his own ALV talent Agency) to entrust to him the management of her daughter ruffa gutierrez and granddaughters Lorin, 14, and Venice, 13. “I used to manage more than 25 talents but I gave up many of them,” said Annabelle. “now I have only my husband Eddie (gutierrez), my son richard and his son Zion, tJ trinidad and Assunta de rossi.” (richard’s girfriend sarah Lahbati is managed by Leo Dominguez.) “Pagdating sa pera, wala kaming problema ni Arnold,” added Annabelle who was present during the contract signing between Arnold and ruffa yesterday afternoon at Anabel’s restaurant. “When I ran for Congress a few years ago, I asked Arnold for his talents to help me in my campaign. Umo-o kaagad sya at wala kaming pinag-usapan tungkol sa pera.” ruffa was upbeat about working with and under Arnold who has the most number of talents that include showbiz stars, athletes, models and now beauty queens, especially after he acquired the Miss World Philippines franchise and recently chosen Laura Lehmann who will represent the country in the 2017

Annabelle Rama, daughter Ruffa Gutierrez and Ruffa’s new manager, Arnold Vegafria. Philstar.com photo

Miss World pageant in China in november. “When my mom told me about the deal,” admitted ruffa, “I was happy. My mom as manager can be controlling and I feel safe with Arnold because I’ve known him for 15 years.” now a single mom, ruffa said that she’s working hard because her ex-husband Yilmaz Bektas is not giving sustento to their children. “What he gives is peanuts,” said ruffa (now a semi-regular on “Eat, Bulaga!” where she acts as the “ruffa-ree” in the Jackpot

En Poy segment), meaning not enough, “and the last time he gave $2,000 was years ago. After that, wala na. My mom told me not to ask Yilmaz for support at ayoko ko naman talaga. Kaya ko naman palakihin ang mga anak ko and I’m working so hard. Mahal ang tuition sa exclusive schools, no!” Asked what projects he’s lining up for ruffa, Arnold said that he would attend to endorsements first before tV and movie projects. And how long is the contract between him and ruffa? “Forever!” smiled Arnold.

B september 21-27, 2017 • LAs VeGAs AsIAN JOUrNAL

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