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DATELINE Fil-Am news anchor to moderate VP debate from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
eLAINe Quijano, anchor of CBs’ digital network CBsN, is making history as the first Asian A m e r i can and first digital network C B S N a n c h o r a n d C B S N e w s anchor to correspondent Elaine Quijano will moderate a moderate the US vice presidential national dedebate in October. bate during the general election campaign. the 42-year-old filipino-American anchor is also one of the youngest debate moderators. the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) announced last week that Quijano will moderate the only debate between vice presidential nominees senator tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Governor mike Pence (r-Ind.) on tuesday, oct. 4 at Longwood University in farmville, Virginia.
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Duterte’s obscenities directed to reporter, not Pres. Obama Obama cancels bilateral meeting, Duterte regrets remarks
by Klarize
MeDenilla AJPress
After initial reports that indicated Philippine President rodrigo Duterte called U.s. President Barack obama a string of obscenities — including “son of a b****” — transcripts from that press conference indicate that he was
actually referring to a reporter, not obama. During a Q&A with reuters on monday, september 5 in Davao City, a reporter asked Duterte several questions regarding the upcoming bilateral meeting with obama. the reporter in question asked: “sir,
there have been concerns on extrajudicial killings, sir. And you will meet leaders, any line of communication that we have prepared to address this issue in front of other foreign leaders?” According to Duterte, the reporter “just threw questions and statements” to which Duterte responded with his
Obama reaffirms U.S. commitment to Asia
DHS considers ending use of private prisons to house detained immigrants
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President Barack Obama and President Bounnhang Vorachith of Laos toast in the Dok Boua Ban Room at the Presidential Palace in Vientiane, Laos on Tuesday, Sept. 6. Standing to the left is Pany Yathotou, President of the National Assembly of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. White House photo by Pete Souza
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A DePArtmeNt of homeland security (Dhs) advisory council has until November 30 to decide whether the federal government will continue holding detained immigrants in for-profit prisons, or end its use of private detention centers. homeland security secretary Jeh Johnson commissioned the Dhs review on friday, August 26, then publicized it at a press event the following monday, according to Politico. the investigation comes amidst mounting scrutiny from humanitarian groups, and just over a week after officials at the Department of Justice (DoJ) announced they would not renew contracts with private prison operators. Johnson said the council had been tasked “to review our current policy and practices concerning the use of private immigration detention and evaluate whether this practice should be eliminated.” for-profit facilities have faced criticism from civil rights watchdogs and immigra-
trademark off-color manner of speaking. “Iyong mga kolumnista diyan na ‘wait until he meets,’ who is he? (There are columnists out there that write headlines such as ‘Who is he?’),” Duterte told the media, referencing an-
by Christina
M. Oriel
AJPress
President Rodrigo Duterte arrives at the National Convention Center in Vientiane, Laos for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit on Tuesday, Sept. 6. Malacañang photo by Toto Lozano
DUrING his 11th and final trip to Asia, President Barack obama pledged that the United states has continued strong commitment to the region — one that would last even beyond his presidency. PAGE A2
UN, foreign governments condemn Davao bombing by Dana
siOsOn AJPress
foLLoWING the deadly market bombing in Davao City last friday, sept. 2, the United Nations and governments around the world have spoken out in support of the Philippines. As a result of the attack, 14 individuals have died, while over 60 were injured. In a statement released on monday, sept. 6, UN secretary General Ban Ki-moon extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished speedy recoveries to those
injured. “the secretary-General stresses the need to ensure accountability and to bring to justice the perpetrators of these terrorist attacks,” adding that “he stands with the government and people of the Philippines,” the secretary-general’s spokesman said in a statement. the UN security Council, which is comprised of 15 nations, also “condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack.” “the UN statement reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifes- A powerful blast ripped through a crowded public market in this city before midnight on Friday, Sept. 2, killing PAGE A2 14 people instantly and leaving more than 60 others wounded.
Pacquiao leaves for US, SC extends halt order on Marcos burial vows to return in time for Senate session by tetCh
tOrres-tupas Inquirer.net
the planned burial of the late strongman ferdinand marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani by tarra QuisMunDO will not take place on septemInquirer.net ber 18. seN. manny Pacquiao on Wednesday, sept. 7 reaffirmed his this, after the supreme Court vow to never miss a senate session even while he is training extended the 20-day status quo for his comeback fight set on Nov. 5 in Las Vegas. order to october 18. this as he left manila Wednesday night for a press tour in Los the high court has concluded Angeles after attending the last senate session for the week. its oral argument on whether he is due to attend to the promotional tour from sept. 8 to 10 marcos should be buried at the Manny Pacquiao during a top-level meeting with Philippine to drum up his bout against WBo Welterweight champion Libingan ng mga Bayani or not. sports officials. Inquirer.net photo by Tristan Tamayo During the second round of PAGE A4
the oral argument, Calida told the high court that President rodrigo Duterte’s decision to allow marcos’ burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayan was beyond judicial review. “Well settled is the rule that a mere existence of a controversy will not authorize the courts of its power of review,” Calida said. “Instant controversy is beyond judicial review as it involves the intrusion into the wisdom behind the interment of marcos at the Libingan,” he added. Former Pres. Ferdinand Marcos PAGE A2 Philstar.com photo
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September 8-14, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
From The FronT Page
Duterte’s obscenities directed... PAGE A1 ticipatory media reports preceding the meeting. “I am a president of a sovereign state and we have long ceased to be a colony. I do not have any master except the Filipino people.� “You must be respectful,� he continued, speaking directly to the reporter. “Do not just throw questions and statements. Putang-ina, mumurahin kita diyan sa forum na ‘yan (Son of a b****, I will curse you in that forum).� Fil-Am writer Nizza Gueco clarified the Philippine president’s comments in a column on liberal news site “Liberal America� in which she translated and contextualized Duterte’s remarks. She said that Duterte’s choice phrasing was an attempt to uplift Filipinos and emphasize the autonomy of the Philippines. “As Filipinos, we have already accepted the fact that he does that a lot. He curses in public and it’s not that big of a deal for us,� Gueco wrote. “It’s not because we want to be seen as a country without class or breeding, but it is because we know it is just his expression that is being taken out of context.� Following media reports falsely reporting he directed these comments to Obama, the White House confirmed that the much anticipated bilateral meeting between the two leaders was canceled. The two were scheduled to meet privately on Tuesday, Sept. 6 during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and western leaders summit in Vientiane, Laos. Leading up to the summit, Duterte said that he would not discuss human rights issues with Obama until the U.S. apologizes for the pacification campaign of the Moro people in Mindanao at
the turn of the century in which 600 died. He even told American officials to look into the police shootings of black men in the U.S., saying they are “still human rights violations.� Obama responded to Duterte’s vulgarities, offering a reason for the cancellation. “He’s a colorful guy,� Obama joked. “I always want to make sure that if I’m having a meeting that it’s actually productive.� The White House later confirmed on Tuesday night, Sept. 6, that the meeting was cancelled due to the vulgar remarks. Ben Rhodes, Obama’s deputy national security advisor said that the comments were “not constructive� and would not have lead to a productive meeting. “Given the important issues that we have, having a meeting where all we were gonna discuss was a series of comments, frankly did not strike us as the most constructive way to approach a bilateral meeting,� Rhodes said in a press conference in Vientiane. Later, Duterte expressed regret for his comments that have caused local and international uproar. “I do not want to quarrel with him. He’s the most powerful president of any country on the planet,� Duterte said of Obama after arriving in Laos for the ASEAN summit Tuesday. Hillary Clinton said that Obama’s decision to cancel the meeting was “appropriate� considering the nature of the comments. “With respect to the Philippines, President Obama made exactly the right choice,� Clinton told the media on Tuesday. “When the president of the Philippines insulted our president,
it was appropriate and a very low-key way to say, ‘Sorry, no meeting.’� Clinton also noted that Duterte’s apology and expression of regret were also “appropriate.� “We have a lot of ties between the United States and the Philippines. And I think it’s very important that we have a relationship, but there has to be a certain level of respect that’s expected on both sides,� Clinton added. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump took to Twitter to comment on Duterte’s remarks, denoting the “terrible� treatment Obama has received on his Asia tour. “China wouldn’t provide a red carpet stairway from Air Force One, and then Philippines President calls Obama ‘the son of a whore.’ Terrible!� Trump tweeted on Tuesday. The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. said that the bilateral meeting will be postponed to a later date. “While asserting the intent to chart an independent foreign policy and promote closer ties with all nations, he expressed his deep regard and affinity for President Obama and for the enduring partnership between our nations,� the embassy said in a statement released Tuesday. “[Duterte] looks forward to ironing out differences arising out of national priorities and perceptions, and working in mutually responsible ways for both countries.� As the Asian Journal previously reported, the leaders were to discuss a variety of issues including the South China Sea dispute and the human rights concerns amid the escalating drug-related killings in the Philippines.
Obama reaffirms U.S. commitment to... PAGE A1
“The United States is more deeply engaged across the AsiaPacific region than we have been in decades,� he said at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit on Tuesday, Sept. 6 in Vientiane, Laos. “We’ve sent a message that we’re here to stay.� He added that the country’s presence in the region, as evidenced by his administration’s “pivot to Asia� — is not “a passing fad,� as it reflects “fundamental national interests.� The president laid out the “principles for peace and progress� in the region, including “sovereignty and territorial integrity� of each nation and upholding human rights. Though not directly naming China, he said that “bigger nations should not dictate to smaller nations, and that all nations should play by the same rules.� “And across the region, including in the East and South China Seas, the United States
will continue to fly and sail and operate wherever international law allows, and support the right of all countries to do the same,� he said, referring to the territorial disputes many ASEAN countries have with China over the waters. He also touched upon the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership, a trade agreement that the U.S. has with 12 countries, including Singapore, Japan and Malaysia. The Philippines did not sign onto the TPP, though the country has expressed interest in joining in the future. “TPP is a core pillar of America’s rebalance to the Asia Pacific. And the trade and the growth it supports will reinforce America’s security alliances and regional partnerships,� he argued, adding that it would have “economic consequences� and “would call into question America’s leadership in this vital region� if it does not move ahead. He went on to say that the U.S. has been working to “rebal-
ance our foreign policy� in the region by creating military alliances with countries like Japan and Korea. “And with our new access agreement with the Philippines, our militaries are closer than they’ve been in decades,� Obama noted in his speech. Earlier in July, the U.S. pledged to give the Philippines $32 million in aid for military training and services, including upholding the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the two countries. Obama’s trip marks the firstever visit by a sitting American president to Laos. The U.S. president was slated to have a bilateral conversation with President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, but canceled following controversial comments from the Philippine leader. The two were supposed to discuss issues such as the Philippines’ war on drugs and the South China Sea territorial disputes.
Martial Law victims, from left, Rodolfo Dela Cruz, Danilo Dela Fuente, Fr. Dionilo Cabillas, former Congressman and human rights lawyer Nery Colmenares, Felix Dalisay and Bonifacio Ilagan, clench their fists shortly after filing a petition before the Supreme Court seeking to stop the burial at the Heroes’ Cemetery of the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos Monday, Aug. 15, 2016, in Manila, Philippines. Protests are mounting following the order by President Rodrigo Duterte to bury Marcos at the cemetery with full military honors. Philstar.com photo
SC extends halt order on Marcos.. PAGE A1 Petitioners who are members of cause oriented groups and human rights victims during the martial law days maintained that Marcos does not deserve to be interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani because he was not worthy of emulation and inspiration. But Calida maintained that there would be no state honors for Marcos but only a simple military ceremony. He added that Marcos was not
dishonorably discharged and there are no allegations that he violated the Articles of War. Even petitioners acknowledged that while there are allegations of human rights violation, economic plunder, graft and corruption, Marcos was never charged, nor convicted in court because he left the country and died. “Its not his fault that he died,� a Supreme Court justice said. The government assured that the Marcos burial will not affect
the claims of victims of military brutality during the martial law regime. Calida added that Marcos burial has no effect of pardoning the late President of his supposed crimes. Both parties, the petitioners, the government, through Solicitor General Jose Calida and the Marcos heirs were given 20 days to submit their memoranda containing their arguments and the requirements, instructions given to them by the justices.
UN, foreign governments condemn... PAGE A1 tations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security and underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of terrorism to justice,� Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. said in a statement. The United States also offered to aid in the investigation of the terror attack. “We understand that local authorities continue to investigate the cause of the explosion in the night market, and the United States stands ready to provide assistance to the investigation,� Ned Price, a spokesman for the National Security Council, said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the Spanish government on Monday, Sept. 5, also expressed its “deepest condolences to the families and relatives of the victims.� Spain added it hoped the “coward perpetrators of this crime be brought to justice as soon as possible and be held responsible for their actions,� reiterating its “complete solidarity with the Philippines in its effort to combat terrorism and guarantee security throughout its national territory.� China also conveyed its firm opposition “to terrorism in all forms, and strongly condemns the violent terrorist acts targeting innocent civilians.� “Shocked to learn of the terrorist explosion incident in
Davao City of the Philippines, I am writing to Your Excellency, on behalf of the Chinese Government and the Chinese people, and in my own name, to express my deep condolences to the deceased civilians and my heartfelt sympathy to the injured and the families of the victims,� Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his letter to President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday, Sept. 4. He assured that China stands ready to work with the international community to combat terrorism and maintain peace and stability. Earlier, the European Union, Japan, and France also expressed condolences to the victims of the bombing.
Fil-Am news anchor to moderate... PAGE A1 According to the CPD, the 90minute debate will be broken up into nine segments of 10 minutes each and will be broadcast without commercial interruption on the CBS Television Network and CBSN at 9 p.m. ET. “It’s an honor to be chosen
to help bring the issues of this critical election to the public,� Quijano said, as reported by CBS News. The Filipino-American is a weekday anchor for CBSN, CBS News’ 24-hour digital streaming network, and spearheads its political reporting. She is also an anchor of the Sunday edition of CBS “Weekend News� and contributes to “Evening News with Scott Pelley� and “CBS This Morning.� Quijano, who is currently based out of New York, has been with CBS since 2010, with coverage including the Boston Marathon bombings, Superstorm Sandy and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. According to a release by the news organization, she was part of the team that won an Alfred I. duPont Award for coverage of the 2012 Newtown elementary school massacre. She was previously a Washington, D.C. correspondent for CNN, covering the White House, the Pentagon and the Supreme Court. Some of her work included the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and major highlights of President George W. Bush’s term, such as his inauguration and the War on Terror. Quijano grew up in the Chi-
cago suburbs of Morton Grove and Skokie and earned her journalism degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She started her career at WCIA-TV in Champaign, Illinois and then as a general assignment reporter for WFTS-TV in Tampa, Florida. “I’ll keep doing broadcast journalism until I don’t find it fun or interesting anymore. You have to have an intense passion for this. The day that it stops being fun and interesting, I’ll know it’s time to go,� Quijano told the Asian Journal’s MDWK Magazine in 2008. There will be three debates for presidential nominees Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, with the first one scheduled for Sept. 26 at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York to be moderated by NBC News’ Lester Holt. The subsequent ones will be on Oct. 9 at Washington University in St. Louis presided by Martha Raddatz of ABC News and CNN’s Anderson Cooper and on Oct. 19 at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas anchored by Chris Wallace of Fox News. The lineup of debate moderators comes after the CPD was urged to select more diverse journalists. (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)
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Fil-Am fugitive wanted for Tucson murder hiding in PH by Eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
A Filipino-AmericAn accused of fatally shooting a man during a house party in Tucson, Arizona, 16 years ago remains at large after fleeing to the philippines. police hope the public might have information leading to the capture of Anthony Burroughs, who was last seen at a strip club in metro manila, according to sources for cnn’s “The Hunt with John Walsh.” The 5’7”, 200 lb 37-year-old, who has his last name tattooed on his back, fled the U.S. after allegedly killing ruben rodriguez on April 29, 2000. “i was told it was over a girl,” rodriguez’s ex-girlfriend, melinda ochoa told cnn. Witnesses say the two men met for the first time that night and wound up trading blows. After the fistfight, rodriguez had reportedly helped Burroughs get up from the ground and was then shot in the shoulder as he walked away from the suspect, according to ochoa. The wound destroyed the victim’s carotid artery, according to Tucson police Detective, Tom Stewart. Burroughs had also shot him-
self in the foot during the incident. With the help of his girlfriend and another accomplice, he sought medical attention in mexico, supposedly to avoid alerting law enforcement of his whereabouts. American customs officials stopped the fugitive’s car as he reentered the country, but eventually released him. He was then able to board a plane in phoenix, Arizona and escape to the philippines. police continued to work on the case, but Burroughs’s trail grew cold over the years. “There were a lot of people giving misinformation,” Stewart told cnn. “At a certain point, over the years, you run out of people to talk to.” Then, well over a decade after rodriguez’s death, a confidential source in the philippines gave investigators a critical lead. in 2014, police learned that Burroughs’s mother -- who is originally from iloilo, philippines -- had been sending money to her son overseas, and were able to obtain a warrant to search her home. officers spent 14 hours looking for clues before finding a collection of letters sent by Burroughs from the philippines. “We very much believe that
Anthony’s mother has tipped him off and drove him back underground,” Deputy U.S. marshall Jen rippey told cnn. “We also believe she is still financing him in some way, shape or form.” She described the suspect as a “wannabe” who glamorized the gangster lifestyle. He had a criminal record for theft and assaulting his girlfriend, and was known to usually have a gun on his person. Tattoos decorate ¾ of both of his arms, in addition to his upper back and chest. rodriguez was 19 and had just landed a sales job in a jewelry store at the time of his death, according to his mother, Sandra medina. He joined a gang during high school, and wound up in juvenile detention after being caught with a small amount of drugs, according to cnn. He was released after turning 18. “That’s when he started changing,” medina told cnn. “ruben didn’t want to be involved with these people anymore.” Since discovering Burroughs’s letters to his mother, deputy U.S. marshals have been dispatched to the philippines. They are working with local authorities to track the suspect, who was last seen in may of 2014.
DHS considers ending use of private prisons... PAGE A1
tion advocates who decry reports of abuse and substandard housing conditions, as well as the expansion of the private prison industry. A July report from Human rights Watch (HrW) attributed seven out of the 18 deaths that occurred at immigration detention centers to inadequate medical care. “We certainly see a lot of these problems magnified when a company is seeking to extract as much profit as it can out of a detention center,” the executive director of Grassroots leadership, Bob libal, told the los Angeles Times. However, sources from immigration customs enforcement (ice) told the lA Times that moving thousands of incarcerated immigrants out of private facilities could take over a decade and cost taxpayers billions. private contractors are currently responsible for housing
two-thirds of the approximately 31,000 people held in DHS custody on a day to day basis. ice does not maintain its own detention centers. Some officials warn that if private detention centers close, asylum seekers, undocumented immigrants, and green card-holding residents awaiting immigration hearings could be sent to state and local jails where they would face even worse conditions. “Before this ever happens, the facilities we currently use have to be replaced — that’s basically the only way, or it will shut us down,” said chris crane, president of the national immigration and customs enforcement council, which represents federal deportation officers. even if the federal government cuts all ties with private prison operators, the industry would continue to survive because state and local clients make up the overwhelming ma-
jority of its clientele, according to various sources. However, recent moves by the DHS and DoJ bring attention to growing concerns about the management of America’s inmate population. A DoJ report released in August noted higher rates of assaults on both prisoners and prison employees at for-profit institutions versus federally-run detention centers. “The fact of the matter is that private prisons don’t compare favorably to Bureau of prisons facilities in terms of safety or security or services,” said Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates in an August memo instructing DoJ officials to allow private prison contracts to lapse. “now with the decline in the federal prison population, we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to do something about that.” (Eric Anthony Licas / AJ Press)
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SENATE REWARDS HIDILYN DIAZ. Senate President Koko Pimentel (right) hands over a check worth P500,000 to Hidilyn Diaz (3rd from left), who won a silver medal in the recently held Rio Olympics. A native of Zamboanga, Diaz qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics after winning three bronze medals in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Championship in Houston, Texas. “Her achievement is an example of the courage and indomitable will of the Filipino athlete,” Pimentel said. Also in photo are Zamboanga City Councilor Rommel Agan (left), Diaz’s parents, and Presidential Legislative Liaison Office Secretary Adelino Sitoy (2nd from right). Senate photo by Alex Nuevaespaña
US has admitted 10,000 Syrian refugees so far in 2016 by KLArizE
MEdEniLLA AJPress
AFTer president Barack obama announced his resettlement program last fall, the United States has so far admitted 10,000 Syrian refugees in 2016 as of monday, August 29, a month ahead of schedule. This marks the largest influx of Syrian refugees in a single year since the civil war in Syria began five years ago. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of employees across the federal government,” national Security Advisor Susan e. rice said in a statement released on monday, August 29. “Their commitment to meeting the president’s expectation that we both increase our refugee admissions and strengthen the integrity of the refugee program, including its stringent security screening protocols, has been essential to this effort.” The program — called the U.S. resettlement program (USrp) — seeks to “uphold America’s humanitarian response to refugees” through three phases: security, placement and transition,
according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). After refugees are screened through a lengthy security process that includes comprehensive background checks, they are placed in particular areas of the countries within 30 to 90 days. once they’re settled, the government provides assistance to help them adjust to life in the U.S. by way of financial and medical aid, employment assistance and a variety of specialized programs. “Today, they are refugees. Tomorrow, they can be students and professors, scientists and researchers, workers and caregivers,” United nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in April. in general, refugees are usually placed in cities in which they have family and/or friends, David murphy, executive director for the international rescue committee in San Diego, told ABc news. if that’s not the case, they’re placed in areas with high concentrations of people of the same culture and/or ethnicity. Data from the census Bureau states that there are more than 150,000 Syrians living in the U.S.
most Syrians have been sent to medium-sized cities with affordable housing situations and ample job opportunities, but some of the major cities — like los Angeles, new York city, Houston, chicago and Boston — have accepted a considerable amount of refugees. california and michigan have received the most Syrian refugees, according to an ABc news report. in addition to lA, cities in california that have accepted a large number of Syrian refugees include San Diego, Santa Ana, Sacramento, oakland and cities all across the Southland, according to the office of refugee resettlement. The U.S. is no stranger to welcoming refugees fleeing political turmoil. in 1979, the country welcomed 111,000 Vietnamese refugees and 207,000 more in 1980. more than 120,000 cuban refugees were also welcomed during the mariel boatlift in 1980. rice said that the U.S. is looking to welcome at least 85,000 refugees this year, including those from Burma, the Democratic republic of congo, el Salvador, iraq, Somalia, Ukraine and other countries.
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Lead suspect charged with murder in connection to missing Fil-Am woman by Eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
ONE of the people arrested in July for kidnapping a Filipino-American woman in California – whose whereabouts remain unknown – could be eligible for execution after prosecutors added murder to the list of charges against him on Friday, September 2. Prosecutors in Northern California accuse Emanuel D. Espinoza, 26, of causing the death of Fil-Am mother Elvira Babb. She has been missing since June 29, and was last seen by a coworker who dropped her off outside the Vallejo branch of Seafood City. The missing woman’s neigh-
bor, Richard Fairchild, told NBC that Babb’s dog Rocky barked wildly the night she disappeared. The next day, the victim’s son, John Babb, 36, received a text message from people threatening to harm his mother unless a $60,000 ransom was paid. “I pray every day that I’ll see my mom again,” said John Babb during a press conference on Tuesday, July 12. “It Just doesn’t make any sense.” He told reporters his mother had lived in poverty in the Philippines and continued to struggle financially in America, according to the Daily Republic. He said she had declared bankruptcy and could barely afford to pay her rent.
Police say Espinoza was “well acquainted” with the victim. He and three others were arrested in connection to Elvira Babb’s disappearance on Sunday, July 10. Prosecutors dropped kidnapping charges against Jalon Brown, 32, and Larry Young, 23, but the two are still accused of acting as accessories to a felony. The fourth suspect, Lovely M. Ruazol, 27, has been cleared of all charges. Investigators say they are still working to find Babb. Anyone who might have information leading to her discovery should contact Detective Terry Poyser of ITAGA MO SA BATO. A bolo-wielding PNP chief, Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, shows his clowning chops during the launch on the Vallejo Police Department at Monday, September 5 of the PNP’s newest project, a reporting and quick-response app dubbed “Itaga mo sa Bato.” Inquirer.net photo by Richard Reyes 707-648-4080.
PH, China push for framework of Fil-Am lawmaker urges criminal justice reform in CA code of conduct in South China Sea by KLArizE
MEdEniLLA AJPress
by ALExis
roMEro
Philstar.com
VIENTIANE, Laos – The Philippines and China have stressed the need to craft a framework for a code of conduct for claimants in the South China Sea and to settle territorial disputes peacefully. The overlapping maritime claims in the region was one of the topics discussed during the ASEAN-China meet held Wednesday, Sept. 7 and attended by heads of state, including President Rodrigo Duterte. “China was vigorously asking to begin with the Code of Conduct as well as Singapore, and our president of the Philippines—President Duterte—also expressed his approval of having this framework of Code of Conduct initiated,” Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a press briefing. “The trend to resolve differences will be good, there is now positive direction in our relations, and the (code of) conduct in the South China Sea should happen next year after the framework of the Code of Conduct has been dealt with by the ASEAN region,” he added. Andanar said Duterte also called on his fellow leaders to “be on the side of peace.” “International disputes should inspire us to work together with adherence to the rule of law and international governing bodies; put
words into actions and be on the side of peace,” he quoted Duterte as saying during the meet. Andanar said Chinese Premier Li Keqiang was “stoically listening” when Duterte delivered the statement. The Philippines and China are embroiled in a territorial dispute over parts of the South China Sea, where more than $5 trillion in trade passes through every year. China claims historic rights over about 90 percent of the area while Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims. In 2013, the Philippines, under President Benigno Aquino III, questioned the legality of China’s sweeping territorial claim, calling it “exaggerated” and “excessive.” A Hague-based arbitral tribunal ruled in favor of the Philippines last July and declared that China’s nine-dash line claim in the South China Sea has no legal basis. China has refused to honor the decision, calling it “illegal since Day One.” Duterte has expressed readiness to hold bilateral talks with China to settle the dispute. He has also asked former President Fidel Ramos to hold backchannel talks with Chinese representatives. Leaders who attended the ASEAN-China meet agreed that the South China Sea row should not define the relationship between the regional bloc and the emerging superpower. “Relations are broader than any singular issue in terms of China
ONE of the issues most imporand the ASEAN and China’s suc- tant to Assemblymember Rob cess is important to ASEAN and Bonta is reforming California’s vice versa,” Andanar said. criminal justice system. When asked if the Philippines In July, Bonta — the first Filiwould push for the inclusion of pino-American in the state’s Legthe arbitral tribunal’s ruling in the islature — took action. As chair ASEAN chairman’s statement, pres- of the Select Committee on Boys idential spokesman Ernesto Abella and Men of Color, he gathered replied: “There is a way of referring lawmakers, academics, commuto these matters without specifically nity leaders and ex-convicts to addressing it that way.” discuss the shortcomings of the Chinese ships near Panatag state’s criminal justi ce, paying The ASEAN-China meet hap- particular attention to the state’s pened days after the Defense de- bail system. partment revealed that 10 Chinese “In my view, it’s not a quesships have been spotted around tion of if the system needs to be Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, an reformed, it’s a question of how,” area off Zambales that is within the Bonta said in a hearing on July 6. Philippines’ exclusive economic When an individual is arrested, zone. they may be required to pay the Defense Secretary Delfin court a certain amount of money Lorenzana suspects that the Chi- — called bail — in exchange for nese government is eyeing a release. This relies on the grounds reclamation project in the area, a that the individual shows up to known traditional fishing route of court for a trial. Filipino fishermen that was seized The bail system was estabby Beijing in 2012. lished to reduce court absences, In a statement Wednesday, the but critics, including Bonta, say Chinese Embassy said that “there that bail puts a premium on poor are no dredging or building activities” in the area. “The Chinese side has maintained the presence of a number of coast guard vessels for law enforcement patrols in the waters of Huangyan Dao (China’s name for the shoal),” it also said. by Jun nucuM Inquirer.net “The Chinese side is willing to work with the Philippine side to SAN LORENZO, California enhance mutual trust and promote — U.S.-based siblings of two fordevelopment of bilateral relations,” mer Philippine officials expressed the embassy also said. shock and disbelief after their brothers’ names were included in the so-called drug matrix that President Rodrigo Duterte recently presented to the public. The siblings of Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Francisco “Toti” Baraan III and former Pangasinan provincial administrator Rafael “Raffy” Baraan said they were saddened by the president’s accusation that their brothers were involved in the trade in illegal drugs. The Baraan siblings Epifania “Epie” Baraan Colobong, youngest brother, Jerome, both in San Lorenzo, and youngest sister, Rowena, who is in Las Vegas, spoke through Fr. Geoffrey Baraan, the fifth of nine siblings and longtime pastor of Ste. Anne Catholic Church in Union City, California, before he was transferred last month to St. Joseph Church in Pinole, California. They said they were “bothered and scared for what may happen to our brothers because of the unfair accusations leveled against them” and they believed this was “happening as part of efforts to discredit former Justice Secretary (now Senator) Leila de Lima.” “We know our brothers Kuyang Raffy (eldest) and Kuyang Toti (second eldest) very well, looked up to them as they were both ex-seminarians having attended Maryhurst Seminary in Baguio City in the 1970s. The Christian values they acquired in the seminary are still very much with them. In fact, they were my inspiration in my pursuit of priesthood,” Fr. Baraan stated. ‘Decent public officials’ “There is no truth to what is being heard and read in the news about the so-called drug matrix because they were very decent public officials who also care for their own families very much,” the priest added.
people who can’t afford bail. “If you are poor and can’t pay bail, you will sit in jail even if your violation is something as minor as a traffic ticket and you’re not a risk to public safety or a flight risk,” Bonta said in a statement. “If you have the money to pay your cash bail, you can get out, no matter how likely you are to flee or reoffend.” Bonta refers to the system as “an issue of racial, social and economic injustice” that disproportionately singles out not only the poor, but also people of color. More than 60 percent of those incarcerated in California are sitting in jail merely because they were not able to afford bail. In other words, more than 46,000 people that are locked up have not been convicted of a crime and are legally innocent. On average, it costs taxpayers each more than $100 a day to keep one person in jail, which translates to a statewide cost of $4.5 million. Last year, a group of lawyers in San Francisco filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of two former in-
mates that accused the state’s bail system services wealthy suspects while disfavoring poor suspects. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, the lawsuit sought to eliminate the cash bail system in San Francisco and possibly California and the country. However, those who oppose abolishing the system say that bail actually holds suspects accountable. Maggie Kreins, president of California’s Bail Agents Association, told KQED News that the damages from individuals skipping court are far more detrimental and more expensive. “When these individuals don’t go to court, who’s going to look for them?” said Kreins, who also heads her own bail bond company Maggie’s Bail Bonds in Long Beach. “The taxpayers are going to have to pay two or three times to arrest the same person.” “We’ve already seen in California [that] the crime rates have gone up. It’s getting scary out there, and they’re making it so nobody’s going to be held accountable for anything anymore.”
Siblings in US scoff at drug accusations against Baraan brothers He said their family is not involved or even rumored to be involved in any wrongdoing “much less illegal drugs” until Duterte’s “matrix” came out. “As a family, we made sure that we protect our family’s name by never doing anything to hurt nor dishonor it and by living a simple life in modest homes,” Fr. Baraan explained. “Our brothers both have their chance to make millions considering their positions in government yet they shunned the opportunity because we were not raised by our parents that way.” Asked on why their brother, Toti, was mentioned, the priest believed that it was because Toti was in charge of the Bureau of Correction in his capacity as DOJ undersecretary, who also had administrative supervision of other agencies under DOJ such as Board of Pardons and Parole, Parole and Probations Administration, Office of the General Corporate Counsel, among others. ‘Not in charge of prisons’ “It must be a made-up story because in the first place, he is not in charge of operation as the Bureau of Correction (BuCor) has its own director. Even if he was the undersecretary that has administrative supervision over BuCor, he was not always there to take care of the day-to-day operations of the Bilibid as he also had to take care of some other tasks. How can he even allegedly be linked to illegal drugs?” said Fr. Baraan. He reported that his brother Toti just laughed at the possibility of being a state witness as being bandied about in the news, because he really has no involvement whatsoever in the allegations being leveled against him. In a press statement, Toti Baraan asked for fairness and due process, a chance to vindicate himself in a formal proceeding where he can present his side. “All I can say now is that this is something I totally cannot imagine myself being involved in; it contradicts the deepest Christian values I hold dear. I know myself, and in
due time the truth will prevail. As Undersecretary having limited administrative supervision of BuCor as Bureau, I did never did oversee, either on the ground or from a distance, the prison operations in Bucor’s seven penal colonies, more so the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinglupa,” stressed Toti adding that his job was limited to reviewing and countersigning for the Secretary’s final signature of Bucor contracts/documents, which were in turn reviewed and endorsed by the agency’s technical services. As for their other brother, Raffy, who reportedly laughed off at the allegations as a joke, Fr. Baraan disclosed that as Pangasinan provincial administrator Raffy had no need go to Bilibid much less had connections with people there. ‘Friend at odds with De Lima’ “Granting that Kuya Raffy was close to then-Pangasinan Governor Amado Espino as provincial administrator, Espino is at odds with then-Justice Secretary and now Senator de Lima because of the case she filed against Espino. How can they be doing business together if they are not on good terms and do not even see eye to eye?” Fr. Baraan wondered. “It only makes the matrix funnier, laughable even. Those who are trying to implicate them should have really done their homework with prudence and more care.” The accused brothers reportedly prefer to stay silent for now, although they are very careful of what they say or do. “As a family we have fear of what might happen next. We do not even know from who are weaving these stories and where this information is coming from. They are accusing the good people, pointing to the wrong persons,” the priest lamented. “We are a family of peace. We believe that there are misguided persons who are out there to destroy them. Those who did this are now also in our prayers,” intimated Fr. Baraan.
Pacquiao leaves for US, vows to return... PAGE A1 Jessie Vargas. “I’ll see you on Tuesday,” Pacquiao told reporters Wednesday. The Pacquiao-Vargas fight was firmed up in August, when the Filipino boxer-turned-legislator met with Top Rank promoter Bob Arum in Manila after weeks of being coy about his possible return fight. He promised that the bout and preparations it entails won’t disrupt his legislative work. “I will be back. I’ll just stay there for two days, because I cannot be absent here. There’s a lot of work to do,” the junior Senator said. Pacquiao has been squeezing
in training while attending Senate committee hearings, sessions and other official functions. He said he goes on daily runs around his neighborhood in Makati City early in the morning, before proceeding to the Senate before 9 a.m., bringing along with him the boxing gear he would need for his night training. After the Senate session, he proceeds to a nearby gym to continue training for around two hours. “After jogging, I dress up then go to attend committee meetings, the session, and then go to training again. So you really need discipline to manage your time,” he said.
He usually gets home at 9 p.m. Pacquiao even finds time to take his wife Jinkee on dates: on Tuesday, he posted a snap of their dinner on Instagram with the caption “Date with my wife after training.” “We went to dinner… [couples] need that. You really have to make time for each other,” said Pacquiao. Pacquiao has not missed a Senate session and has been actively participating in committee hearings and Senate inquiries, bent on making good his promise to turn around his dismal record as an absentee lawmaker during his time as Sarangani Representative.
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D ateline PhiliPPines Duterte warns Davao bombers: I will eat you alive PNP Chief: 6-month deadline by Dana
to end drug menace possible
M. SioSon
AJPress
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte issued a warning on Monday, September 5, against the perpetrators of the bombing in Davao City last Friday, September 1, that left 15 people dead and at least 60 others wounded. “They will pay. How many lives were lost? Fifteen. Well, give me time. I will crush you all,” the president, referring to the perpetrators, told members of the Filipino community in Vientiane, Laos, according to reports from Manila Times. “You watch me. You have seen how I operate. I am not bragging,” he added. Duterte suspects that the bombing in Davao City was a retaliation of the Abu Sayyaf bandits, whom he previously regarded as a group of Moros “driven to desperation” because of the government’s “failed promises.” Describing them as “beyond redemption,” the president threatened to eat the terrorists alive. “You know, I can eat people. I can rip open your body. Give me vinegar and salt and I will eat you. That’s true. If you really anger me and I reach my limits, I can eat people,” he warned, as reported by Philstar. “As I say in Bisaya, walay sukod sa balos (no amount of compensation). Go stage bombings as you wish. When time comes, I will eat you in front of other people. I will
by Roel
PaReño Philstar.com
The suspect was described as a slim man, standing 5’7” in height and around 30 years old. Courtesy PRO 11 spokesperson Chief Inspector Andrea dela Cerna. Philstar.com photo
devour you and if I have to erase you, I’ll do it. Not even a single coconut (tree) will grow there,” he added. Earlier on Saturday, September 3, the Abu Sayyaf Group claimed responsibility for the bombing and warned of more attacks if the military does not stop its offensives. “We are being slapped almost every day. They would hold hostage tourists and ask for money. If they fail to give money, the victims will be sent to another group, raise the ransom demand and kill the hostages,” the president said. “As a (leader of a) country, a sovereign state, I cannot simply allow that.” Duterte also expressed that he shared the grief of those who died
in the incident. “I will crush that rebellion. I will cut the root [of the problem up]. They are the ones who started it. I am not bragging. And let it be known to them that I will take revenge. I will not allow them to do that. I will do to them what they do to others.” His palace aides, however, dismissed Duterte’s supposed propensity for killing as mere “hyperbole,” according to reports from Rappler. Shortly after the attack, the president has put the Philippines under the placed the country under a “state of lawless violence,” allowing deployed troops to back up the police in tightening the security through checkpoints and increased patrols.
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa expressed optimism on Tuesday, Sept. 6 that law enforcers would meet the six-month timeline of President Duterte of achieving victory in the war against illegal drugs. Dela Rosa said the police campaign in the past two months had resulted in the surrender of more than 670,000 drug addicts. He said the PNP’s campaign target is to cover the reported 1.8 million users of illegal drugs nationwide. “Based on the pacing of the campaign it is achievable. Pero sigurista ako, kaya (But I want to be sure) I’m just worried we will be running out of time,” he said. Dela Rosa, who was here yesterday as guest of the 115th Police Service Anniversary held at the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO), said he made sure that one of his objectives in going around police headquarters in the country is to encourage the police to work hard and hit its target in the drug campaign. “I talk with the regional directors to double their time, triple their time so we can clean this country of the menace of illegal drugs,” Dela Rosa said. He said illegal gambling would be next target for another six months
Poe to PNP: Probe child deaths in drug war by Dana
M. SioSon
AJPress
SENATOR Grace Poe asked Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa on Tuesday, September 6, to investigate the deaths of children related to the government’s antiillegal drugs campaign. “The situation where innocent children become victims of the drug war is deplorable and must be addressed without delay,” Poe said, as reported by Rappler. The senator cited the death of Althea Fhem Barbon, a 4-yearold girl from Guihulngan, Negros Oriental. Her father, Aldrick, was a suspected shabu seller. He died after
being shot by policemen near their home on Larena Street in Barangay Poblacion during a police operation on August 30. Althea, who was riding a motorcycle driven by her father, was taken to a hospital in Dumaguete City but died two days later. Poe expressed her full support for the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign but said, “the prime duty of the police force is to serve and protect the people.” The senator cited the Republic Act 8551 or the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998. It mandates the PNP-Internal Affairs Service (IAS) to automatically investigate incidents of death,
serious physical injury or violation of human rights committed in the conduct of a police operation. “The PNP-IAS must ensure that scalawags in the police service are held accountable, more so in cases where children and minors are senselessly caught in the crossfire. Their vulnerability must not be trampled upon,” Poe said. She also called for the appointment of a civilian head for the IAS. The senator also asked for updates regarding the investigation on the death of Danica Mae Garcia, a 5-year-old from Dagupan City, Pangasinan. She was hit by a bullet intended for her grandfather, a drug suspect.
Sen. Grace Poe
“The protection of life is one of the essentials for the enjoyment of the blessings of democracy,” Poe added.
after the war on illegal drugs. Dela Rosa said while illegal gambling appeared to be moderate, they would not allow it to proliferate. The PNP chief also warned police officers to stay away from illegal gambling lords.
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September 8-14, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
OpiniOn
Sharp-tongued
Features
U.S. President Barack Obama has described the Philippines as America’s oldest ally in Asia, a relationship bound by friendship and mutual respect. This may not hold true for his Philippine counterpart because even before leaving for his first official foreign travel, President Rodrigo Duterte has managed to cause an international stir with a “son of a b*itch” comment that many media said was direct toward Obama. Duterte warned the American president not to question his ways over extrajudicial killings and human rights violations in the Philippines, which have been gaining scrutiny over the past months. “I do not respond to anybody but to the people of the Republic of the Philippines,” the Philippine president said. The two presidents were set to have a rendezvous at the sidelines of the ongoing Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Laos. However, the bilateral meeting was called off by the U.S., saying that this may not be the right time for the leaders to have a dialogue. “Clearly, he’s a colorful guy,” Obama said. “What I’ve instructed my team to do is talk to their Philippine counterparts to find out is this in fact a time where we can have some constructive, productive conversations.” The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) instantly went to damage control. It said that Duterte “continues to value the Philippines’
ties with the United States despite his profanity-laced remarks against” the U.S. president. In a statement, the DFA said the Philippines and the U.S. “share common goals in their pursuit of the war against drugs, terrorists, crime and poverty. President Duterte explained that the press reports that President Obama would ‘lecture’ him on extrajudicial killings led to his strong comments, which in turn elicited concern. He regrets that his remarks to the press have caused much controversy.” It added that “while asserting the intent to chart an independent foreign policy and promote closer ties with all nations, he expressed his deep regard and affinity for President Obama and for the enduring partnership between our nations.” Before deciding to throw expletives to Obama, perhaps Duterte needs constant reminders that being the President means embarking on business meetings with other foreign leaders to address global challenges and ensure stability for their people. He may also need to be reminded that for decades, the United States has maintained strong bilateral relations with the Philippines, based on a number of factors including robust domestic support for international security, joint strategic goals in the Asia Pacific, a mutual commitment to demo-
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
cratic values, and historical ties. There are currently 300,000 American citizens living in the Philippines and millions of Filipinos in the U.S. This is one of the most enduring aspects of the US-PH partnership, the binding and personal ties between people. These bring political, economic, and strategic benefits to both Filipinos
and Americans. This relationship is bound by democratic values and moral responsibility to ensure peace and security not just for their own people, but for every citizen of the world. This bond will only further flourish if both countries continue to commit on the same goals. (AJPress)
Do you agree with Pres. Obama’s decision to cancel the bilateral meeting after Duterte’s insults and profanity? “PUTANG ina mumurahin kita diyan sa forum na iyan…(Son of a whore, I’ll curse you at that forum).” These are just some of the toxic words spewed by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte as a warning to U.S. President Barack Obama, when asked in a press meeting what he would do if Obama questions him about the extrajudicial killings and human rights violations in his war against drugs. His own words on the eve of his flight to Laos for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit include: “Who does he think he is? I am no American puppet. I am the president of a sovereign country and I am not answerable to anyone except the Filipino people” Duterte’s statements have been the subject of news headlines and commentaries all over the world. The recent comments add to the profanities he unleashed against Pope Francis and the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines and his statement that the mayor (Duterte) should have been the first to rape this beautiful Australian missionary who was abducted, raped and killed in his territory.
Commentary PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS THE illegal drug problem here and abroad is not a modern crisis. Almost three centuries ago, an illegal drug brought down an empire, the Imperial China. If not drastically eliminated, illegal drug trafficking and use—a massive cancer in the Philippines—could destroy our nation. Indeed, President Rodrigo Duterte’s aggressive war on drugs is most welcome, a brutal and desperate solution to a brutal and desperate situation. In 1793, China was rich in history and had a sophisticated culture. It invented kites, movable type, and gunpowder, and perfected the production of tea, silk, and porcelain. In 1825, the British introduced opium to China and soon the Chinese became addicted to the drug. An illegal trade quickly developed in spite of the Emperor’s prohibition. Some of the government officials, leading businessmen, and a vast number of Chinese were hooked on this drug. Weakened by this societal cancer, the Chinese government, unable to protect its own people, lost the support of the nation. Less than a century later, the empire was dead. Oplan Tokhang President Duterte’s earnest zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs is what our poor country needs. With about 30 percent of Filipinos languishing in the gutter of poverty, who are homeless and hungry, who go to bed at night, not only with empty stomachs, but
“I have seen some of those colorful statements in the past, The Fil-Am so clearly he is a colorful guy, ” President Obama said in a news Perspective conference on Monday. He asked his team to evaluate if pushing through with the bilateral meeting with Duterte would be productive and constructive, consid- Gel SantoS-ReloS ering the statements Duterte just made against him. “Fighting narco-trafficking is tough, but we will always assert the need to have due process,” the U.S. president added. Obama eventually canceled the meeting Monday afternoon and decided to meet with the president of South Korea instead. As a result, Philippine stocks stumbled, with international investors expressing concern about putting their money in Philippine market. Duterte issued a response to the media through his surrogates, which stated: “While the immediate cause was my strong comments to certain press questions that elicited
concern and distress, we also regret it came across as a personal attack on the U.S. President. Our primary intention is to chart an independent foreign policy while promoting closer ties with all nations, especially the US with which we have had a long-standing partnership.” We look forward to ironing out differences arising out of national priorities and perceptions, and working in mutually responsible ways for both countries.” Duterte’s statement also said the meeting between the United States and the Philippines has been mutually agreed upon to be moved to a later date. CNN reported that in his speech last Monday, Duterte blamed the United States for causing the unrest on the southern Philippines island of Mindanao. “As a matter of fact, we inherited this problem from the United States,” Duterte said. “Why? Because they invaded this country and made us
their subjugated people. Everybody has a terrible record of extrajudicial killing. Why make an issue about fighting crime?” CNN further discussed that Duterte was referring to the U.S.’ history as a colonial power in the Philippines, and specifically to one infamous massacre in the southern Philippines -- the 1906 Battle of Bud Dajo -- in which hundreds of Filipinos, including women and children, were killed. “How many died? Six hundred,” Duterte said Monday. “If (Obama) can answer that question and give the apology, I will answer him.” President Obama has maintained, “I always want to make sure if I’m having a meeting that it’s productive and we’re getting something done.” The cancellation of the scheduled meeting just indicates that he deemed Duterte would not be able to make that happen. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos
Drugs can destroy a nation with empty dreams. They wake up, day after day, to a bleak tomorrow, we cannot afford to allow illegal drug trafficking in this country. Knowing the evils of drug trafficking and use, President Duterte has waged a massive, bold, and aggressive war (Oplan Tokhang: “Approach and Talk”) against drug lords, dealers, and users, with the equally determined PNP Chief General “Bato” Ronald M. dela Rosa, the “Rock,” as his prime front-liner. More than 600,000 drug addicts have voluntarily surrendered within the fist two months of Duterte’s presidency. As of August 31, 2016, 929 drug dealer suspects have been killed in encounters with the police and another 1,507 by unknown attackers, which are being investigated. Ten police officers have been killed during the various stings. So far, the total fatalities reported: at least 2,448. The results of the anti-drug campaign have been very impressive, considering the new administration has been in office for barely five months. The many deaths attributed to the government’s war on drugs have been labeled by some quarters as extra-judicial killings, “without due process.” Whether vigilantes were responsible for the summary executions, no one seems to be sure. Many of these killings were done by tandem motorbike riders on the fly. Instead of convicting the President of “EJK” right off the bat, perhaps he should also be accorded due process first. Let’s have all the evidence in. When he is found guilty beyond reasonable doubt, that is the time for us, We,
The People, to condemn him. But not before. Due process There are two kinds of due process provided by the Philippine Constitution: (1) Substantive, “which requires the intrinsic validity of the law in interfering with the rights of the person to life, liberty or property. In short, it is to determine whether it has a valid governmental objective like for the interest of the public as against mere particular class,” and (2) Procedural, one which hears before it condemns.” Removing all our personal biases on this issue for a moment, let us analyze the realities of the matter in a poor country such as ours. Let us take the example of a drug lord or a dealer, well known in their barangays for their usual open illegal business, catering drugs to the local residents. One of the objectives of due process is to be certain, beyond reasonable doubt, that the accused is guilty or innocent. In most towns, the residents have known who the drug lord or dealers are for decades. Now, if a vigilante kills a known drug lord or dealer, the killing is extrajudicial, because there was “no procedural due process,” but is there a substantive due process ”for public interest,” in this case? But let us go through the motion of due process as human rights advocates (of which I am one) demand. Since the courts are already overloaded, it would take months, if not a year or so, to adjudicate the case. And there could be more than 2 million drug offenders. Our jails are already crowded. We need more prisons. More funds.
While in jail, the drug lord or dealer will be provided free board and lodging with air-conditioning, medical care, exercise and recreational activities and television. And it is public knowledge that bongga parties have been held in jail and even call girls are available for inmates who have the connections. Whether you realize it or not, Filipino citizens (including myself) will be subsidizing and financing all of the above with the tax money we pay each year, funds which could be channeled to house, feed, and provide medical care and education for the poor and their suffering families. Are we, who are demanding due process, willing to contribute more to our government in order to build more jails to house, feed, and provide for the drug lords and dealers while in prison (without having to take the budget from the DSW, DOH, DOE or DOD for this purpose)? The annual expense per inmate
is P73,910, almost three times the P23,775 spent by the Department of Education for the basic education of a student. The combined budget of “almost P2.5 billion for 135,000 inmates is larger than the P4.27 billion the Department of Social Welfare spends to feed 2.1 million undernourished children a year.” The almost P74,000 expense per inmate per year does not even include the expenses to be incurred (budget for) the police, government prosecutors, and public legal defense provided for each indigent defendant. When the drug lord shoots back and is killed in an encounter with the police, the government saves at least P73,910 per person per year, and multiplied by the countless number of offenders, the savings could be a truly significant amount. Those inmates will be in prison for a number of years. And the expenses will continue to add up, like a taxi meter. These savings could well help alleviate
poverty, improve our education and national health care, and fund infrastructure projects around the country. In spite of these realities and expensive complexity of the law, to the disadvantage and detriment of the poorest of the poor in the Philippines, the application of due process must be honored and extrajudicial killings must nonetheless be outlawed. In the same token, let’s have all the facts before we judge anyone. Least President Duterte, the People’s Choice, who has a noble dream for the Filipinos and our nation and who is putting his life on the line to save our country from chaos and destruction. Isn’t this, after all, the essence of due process? *** The author is Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and is chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 505(c)3 humanitarian and anti-graft Foundation in the United States. www.philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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China confirms vessels on Scarborough, denies reclamation MANILA — The Chinese Embassy in Manila on Wednesday, Sept. 7confirmed that Chinese ships and fishing boats are in the waters around the Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal, called Huangyan Dao in Mandarin. “The Chinese side has maintained the presence of a number of coast guard vessels for law enforcement patrols. There are also some Chinese fishing boats around that area,” the embassy said. “The situation has not changed. There are no dredging or building activities there,” it added. The Chinese embassy also denied reports that the Chinese ambassador has met with the Philippines’ defense chief to explain the sightings. “Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana quoted Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua as saying that the ‘vessels are transfering sand from one area to another. The Chinese Embassy would like to clarify that Ambassador Zhao has not yet had the honor to meet with His Honorable Defense Secretary Lorenzana, and the media must have misquoted him,” the embassy said. The statement came following the Philippine government’s release of surveillance pictures of Chinese coast guard ships and barges around Scarborough just hours before the Chinese Premier Li Keqiang attended the regional summit. with Southeast Asian leaders in Laos. Lorenzana said the situation is
Photographs released by the Philippine government are displayed on a computer screen in Bangkok, Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016.
“very worrisome” if it were the start of reclamation activity. “That area is ours. Once they seize an island, we can no longer recover it,” he said. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said that China hadn’t done anything to alter the circumstances in the waters surrounding the shoal. “What I can tell you is that the situation in waters near Huangyan Island remains unchanged and China hasn’t made any new moves,” Hua said in Beijing, using the shoal’s Chinese name. “We should be highly alert against the mischief-making intentions of people who spread such groundless information in such situations.” Asked how disturbed the Philippines was by the presence of the Chinese ships, Duterte’s spokesman Ernesto Abella told a news conference: “Enough to
announce it.” Hours after the Philippines released the pictures, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations met with Li and his aides. The South China Sea dispute was tackled at the closed-door meeting with some of the leaders, including Duterte, who reiterated calls for the conflicts to be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said. He quoted the Chinese premier as saying that there was now a “positive direction” in Beijing’s relations with ASEAN and that the disputes should not affect overall relations. The Chinese embassy, meanwhile, said it is “willing to work with the Philippine side to enhance mutual trust and promote development of bilateral relations.” (Camille Diola with reports from the Associated Press)
Four PH universities in world ranking by Reicelene Joy ignacio ManilaTmes.net
STATE-RUN University of the Philippines rose to the top 400 of the 13th edition of the annual university ranking compiled by British company Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), leading three other Philippine education institutions. UP ranked 374th in the 20162017 listing, a significant improvement from last year when the state university ranked within the 401-410 range. QS said this was based on UP’s rise in three measures, namely academic reputation, faculty/ student ratio, and international faculty ratio. The Jesuit-run Ateneo de Manila University stayed at the 501550 range, while De La Salle University of the Brothers of Christian
Schools and the Dominican-run Pontifical University of Santo Tomas (UST) stayed at 701+. QS said the Ateneo was the only Filipino university that improved its research impact, measured using QS’ citations per faculty metric. La Salle, meanwhile, was the only Filipino university that improved its ranking in employer reputation. It also has the “most impactful researchers, as measured using citations per faculty.” UST, Asia’s oldest university, entered the published rankings this year, QS said. QS uses six performance indicators to assess universities’ rankings. These are academic reputation, 40 percent; employer reputation, 10 percent; student-tofaculty ratio, 20 percent; citations
per faculty, 20 percent; international faculty ratio, 5 percent; and international student ratio, 5 percent. American universities led the world ranking, with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology at No. 1, followed by Stanford University and Harvard University. “This year’s rankings imply that levels of investment are determining who progresses and who regresses. Institutions in countries that provide high levels of targeted funding, whether from endowments or from the public purse, are rising,” said Ben Sowter, QS research head. “On the other hand, Western European nations making or proposing cuts to public research spending are losing ground to their US and Asian counterparts,” he added.
Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority 340 North 11th Street Las Vegas, Nevada 89101 Phone (702) 922-6060
Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority Notice of Public Comment Period and Public Hearing As required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Notice is hereby given that the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority will hold a Public Hearing to solicit comments on the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority’s Amendment 1 Annual Agency Plan for FY2017 and Five Year Plan for FY2017 through FY2021 The Public Hearing will be held at: Howard Cannon Center Commission Chambers 340 North 11th Street Las Vegas, NV 89101 Monday, October 31, 2016, at 5:30 pm The Plan will be available on Monday, September 12, 2016, at all Public +RXVLQJ &RPPXQLW\ 2I¿ FHV DV ZHOO DV LQ WKH PDLQ OREE\ DUHD RI 615+$ $GPLQLVWUDWLYH 2I¿ FHV ORFDWHG DW Howard Cannon Center at 340 North 11th Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101. W. F. Cotrell Admin Building at 5390 E. Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV. 89122 Housing Programs at 380 North Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV. 89101 The Plan will be also available on our website at www.snvrha.org, Welcome Page, scroll down to Agency Plans section click on “click here for all Agency Plans” and scroll down to the pdf icon for this plan. If you wish to comment on this Plan, require additional information, and/or need special accommodations, please call 702-922-7006. Written comments will be accepted from Monday, September 12, 2016 through Monday, October 31, 2016 at 5:30pm at the above address.
PUB: September 11, 2016
OUTSTANDING COPS. Senator Cynthia A. Villar poses with the 2016 awardees to the Search for Country’s Outstanding Police Officers in Service (COPS) launched by the Metrobank foundation, Inc. (MBFI), together with the Rotary Club of New Manila East and the Philippine Savings Bank. For this year, four police commissioned officers and six non-commissioned officers joined the rank of 128 Outstanding Police Officers who have been honored by the foundation since 2002. Also in the photo with the senator, chair of the Final Board of Judges, are (L-R), Aniceto M. Sobrepeña, Pres. Metrobank Foundation, Inc., Vicente R. Cuna Jr., Pres. Philippine Savings Bank; Engr. Manuel Gorospe, Pres. Rotary Club on New Manila East; Arthur V. Ty , Chairman (Metrobank) & Vice Chairman (Metrobank Foundation), Vice President Maria Leonor G. Robredo (Guest of Honor); Interior and Local Government Sec. Ismael Sueno and Fabian Dee, President, Metrobank and Trustee, Metrobank Foundation. Senate photo
Ramos source of Duterte drug list by catheRine
Valente Manilatimes.net
NOW it can be told. The list of officials allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade was given by former president Fidel Ramos to President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte made the admission during his speech before the Filipino community in Laos on Monday, Sept. 5.
Duterte, in Laos for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit, said Ramos showed him the drug list when the latter was trying to convince him to run for president. “He was strongly urging me to run. He said only you can stop this. Then he showed me a list of generals into drugs,” he said. The President said the list is so thick and he has not finished
validating all the names. In July, Duterte named five police generals allegedly protecting drug syndicates. He also named the country’s big-time drug lords, as well as local officials who are also in the drug trade. Duterte also released a matrix showing Sen. Leila De Lima on top of the drug trade at the national penitentiary.
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Mariel Rodriguez to give birth in US by Arlo
Custodiod ManilaTimes.net
HigH profile couple Robin Padilla and Mariel Rodriguez held a baby shower on Saturday, Sept. 3 at Le Jardin in Taguig and excitedly announced their long awaited bundle of joy is a girl. The party, attended by close friends was a triple celebration— the baby shower, the couple’s sixth wedding anniversary, the mom-to-be’s 32nd birthday. in a series of posts on Twitter, instagram and Facebook, the glowing Mrs. Padilla shared her excitement over the pending birth of Baby Maria isabella in November. “We are excited but patiently waiting for your arrival Maria isabella. Mommy and Daddy love you so much! You are loved not just by us but by everyone #BabyMozart #MariaisabellaDePadilla,” the TV host announced on instagram. Because of her delicate pregnacy after two miscarriages, the couple have decided that Mariel should give birth US where her half-siblings reside.
mariel Rodriguez and Robin padilla proudly announce it’s a girl for them.
Padilla explained to ABS-CBN. Com, “First, it should be known that Mariel’s pregnancy is so delicate. it’s one of the challenges she’s going through. it’s not that we’re saying we lack skills and facilities in the Philippines, the doctors here are as proficient but the technology is there, it’s immediately available. We don’t
have to wait for the problem to arise before we act. it’s all there that’s why we chose the US so everything is on stand by.” He described their baby as miracle. Rodriguez also announced she is taking a break from showbiz to make sure both she and the baby are safe and healthy.
Black Eyed Peas revives ‘Where Is The Love?’ by Arlo
Custodiod ManilaTimes.net
WiTH powerful support from Jamie Foxx, Usher, Nicole Scherzinger, Justin Timberlake, Mary J. Blige et al. Originally an alternative hiphop group, the Black Eyed Peas’ first major hit was the 2003 single “Where is The Love?” from their third studio album Elephunk. The song topped the charts in 13 countries, including the United Kingdom where it stayed number one for seven weeks becoming Britain’s biggest selling single that year. At that time the general feeling was the world was suffering from political and social atrocities. They subsequently changed their musical sound to pop and dance-pop music. For quite a time, members will. i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo, and Fergie
will.i.am, Fergie, taboo and apl.de.ap
went on solo careers but for a good cause joined forces once again to revive the worldwide hit and to inspire social engagement in millenials. And with millenials as target, Black Eyed Peas enlisted numerous heavy hitters to join them on the latest rendition of “Where
is The Love?” including Jamie Foxx, Ty Dolla $ign, Mary J. Blige, Diddy, Cassie, Andra Day, The game, Tori Kelly, V. Bozeman, Jessie J, French Montana, DJ Khaled, Usher, Nicole Scherzinger, A$AP Rocky, Jaden Smith and Justin Timberlake who was also featured PAGE B3
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Larger than Life
Fil-Am artist Jefre Manuel and his journey to success in the art world By Dana
SioSon AJPress
same time, his uncle was inclined in architecture and has created exquisite abstract murals from ANOTHER artist is making his etched metal and paint. This has way in the Philippine art industry. made him more inclined in art. With his countless achievements Passion for art in Miami, New Orleans, PhiladelAt an early age, Jefrë already phia, San Antonio, London, and showed interest in art. Abu Dhabi, Jefrë Manuel took “As children, we all have a the opportunity to use his skills sense for creative exploration and and talent to craft awe-inspir- experimentation. I remember my ing, larger-than-life art pieces in mother telling the story of how I Manila. love to water our plants with soy Retracing his roots sauce or how I would take things Being an internationally-ac- apart. But maybe, that was a way claimed contemporary artist and to explore objects as individual former landscape architect, Jefrë components and how they work,” Figueras Manuel, or more known he told the Asian Journal. as “Jefrë,” was born and raised in To further develop his skills, he Chicago. His parents were natives participated in many art courses, of Ilocos Sur and Laguna, and competitions, and even joined this accounts for his love of the drama programs during his grade Philippines. school and high school days. The love of the arts, though, “I remember being excited that runs in the family. my cover art was chosen in a conHis mother, who was a nurse, test for the eighth-grade graduahad a creative outlet as a floral tion program,” he added. decorator. Jefrë recounted the The path he chose days when he assisted her on Jefrë’s passion led him to weddings and other events. At the the Art Institute of Chicago. He
wanted to pursue a profession in the arts. But then, he decided to transfer to Ohio State University. There, he took up and finished a degree in Urban Design and Landscape Architecture. “A starving artist wasn’t really honored in a family dominated in the medical profession,” Jefrë explained. He said that his parents were concerned about him and his struggles in the future if he chose the path of an artist. Thus,
he transferred and became a city planner. For 10 years, he was able to work with various establishments and firms like Skidmore Owings and Merril. He worked for clients, was contracted in partnerships, and gave service to some of the biggest industry names such as Santiago Calatrava, BIG Architect’s, Zaha Hadid, and Philippe Starck. Everything seemed to be working well until a life-changing incident happened to him. Not expecting a heart attack at the age of 35, Jefrë underwent triple bypass surgery. The incident served as an eye opener and made him realize the life that he truly wanted. Having personally experienced the play of God’s hands, he quit his job and used his more than $400,000 of his retirement funds to participate in different competitions and study morpho-ecological design at the Architecture Association in London, England. “When I came back from London, I decided not to go back to a firm. I started my own practice (now known as StudioJEFRë) and joined competitions,” he said. Starting anew Jefrë took the first step of his second life by joining different contests in the United States. The contests — mostly funded by the public — are usually joined by 300 to 400 people. All of them are screened based on their presented ideas until three finalists are chosen. “In my first year (of competing), I was a finalist in 12 projects. You hope to win one... I won eight in my first year. I was the fastest emerging artist to win that number of competitions in my first year,” Jefrë expressed. The 40-year-old artist then be-
photos courtesy of Jefrë manuel
came known for his pieces such as “The Beacon” and “The Code Wall,” which are both showcased in the heart of Lake Nona Medical City in Florida. His projects are inspired not by a “theme or material-based studio artist” but by the culture and identity of the community locals he works for. His name continued to rise with his thought-provoking work of art. In 2012, he was named as the “Emerging Artist of the Year.” He has won in various sculpture competitions in Washington D.C., London, San Antonio, New Or-
leans, Rome, and Miami. Furthermore, Jefrë was given recognition as the “Consultant of the Year for 2016” by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). He was awarded by the Marlborough Gallery in New York City as an “Up and Coming International Public Artist.” Recently, he was also nominated for the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Museum Award 2016 for the Design Mind Category. Jefrë Manuel today As his career continues to flourish, Jefrë decided to offer his service and “bring the idea of public art and iconic art to the Philippines.” He was commissioned by SM Group to work on “Talking Heads” at SM Ecom 5 and “Sculpture Contour Series” — a permanent art sculpture project at SM Aura. Jefrë worked with BGC’s most iconic sculpture called “Selfie.” “I’m an international artist from the United States but I’m a Filipino. This is my first time in my homeland in about 15 years after doing sculptures worldwide,” he confessed. “If I can do the Philippines’ ‘International Monument or Iconic Destination,’ that would be my dream.” When asked about the kind of artwork he wants to do, Jefrë answered that he likes to make “art that inspires people; art that can one day be considered your Eiffel Tower.” Looking forward to his future endeavors locally and nationwide, he envisions working in a profession that shapes the world and eventually become a big influence on how art can turn from mere object to public space. “For me, there was really no ‘perfection’ in art. Art is more of a process,” Jefrë concluded.
DOT chief: ‘Let’s give Steve Harvey a chance’ TOURISM Secretary Wanda Teo is counting on President Rodrigo Duterte and the Filipino people to forgive American host Steve Harvey for his epic blunder in announcing the wrong winner at the last Miss Universe pageant so that the latter can fulfill his contract to emcee the January 2017’s coronation night. Teo admitted during the Meet the Press in Malacañang that President Duterte had expressed his hesitations on the likelihood that Harvey will host the 2016 Miss Universe coronation night scheduled for January 30 at the Mall of Asia Arena. This despite the Department of Tourism (DOT) chief’s explanation to the President that said she explained Harvey has a five-year contract to emcee the pageant. Harvey had repeatedly apologized for the mistake of announcing Miss Colombia as the 2015 Miss Universe, before he realized that Bb. Pilipinas Universe Pia Wurtzbach was the adjudged winner. “Miss Universe Pageant is four months away. That’s more than enough time to assuage President Duterte about his hesitation on Mr. Harvey’s hosting the event. I’ve known him for many years as our
miss Universe pia Wurtzbach captions this post on the pageant’s Facebook page: ‘#tbt to the night that changed my life. Steve Harvey let’s do it again
Davao City Mayor with a big heart for well-meaning people like Mr. Harvey, who did not hesitate to correct his mistake,” Teo said. In an interview with DZMM’s Noli de Castro, Teo also pointed out, “I will personally speak with the President and may even ask the help of Pia to convince him to give Mr. Harvey the chance he deserves.” She went on to say, “The reigning Miss Universe, our very own Pia Wurtzbach has the magna-
nimity to appreciate the way Mr. Harvey stepped up to redeem himself. I’m counting on the same sense of forgiveness and class-act among Filipinos.” In the Miss Universe Organization Facebook page, a photo of Wurtzbach and Harvey is posted showing the question-and-answer portion of 2015 Miss Universe, captioned “#TBT to the night that changed my life. Steve Harvey, let’s do it again and changed someone else’ life.” (ManilaTimes.net)
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EntErtainmEnt
JC Santos is JaDine’s new third wheel by Ricky
caldeRon ManilaTimes.net
reading to play one of the leads of the show in the Antonette Jadaone series. JC Santos is backed with imAdmitting he cannot be happressive credentials as he plays pier over this biggest break in third wheel to the day’s most his career, JC is looking forward popular love team in James Reid to more challenges in portraying and Nadine Lustre, best known by Ali. Based on the first week and their moniker JaDine. trailers of the show, there are hints JC plays Ali, Iris’ (Lustre) best that JC’s character is gay and in friend, who as the first week of love with James’ Basti rather than the highly anticipated ABS-CBN Nadie’s Ali. teleserye Till I Met You will figure JC told Roving Eye he doesn’t in a different kind of love triangle mind portraying a gay character with the popular pair. being typecast as such. He’s fine JC started his career as a the- with it as long as the role is a good ater actor in UP Diliman where one. he studied Theater Arts. He then worked as a singer-dancer in Hong Kong Disneyland, after which he joined the talents of Universal Studios Singapore. According to JC, he returned to the Philippines because he wants to carve a career both as TV and mainstream movie actor. One distinct role he has since played which remains in our mind was as cadet commander in Aureous Solito’s Esprit de Corps, an entry in the Cinema One Originals Festival in 2014. For his work in that film, JC earned an Urian Best Actor nomination. He was also cast in the Cinemalaya finalist, The Janitor; and the Cine Filipino entry Sakaling Hindi Makarating. For TV, he was part of the online series Forever Sucks starring Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and likewise appeared in the TV series Flordeliza and Tubig At Langis. JC said he usually gets the role of antagonist and is not a newbie to auditions, whether in movies or TV. He auditioned for the part of Ali in Till I Met You, and when asked to return for the second day of auditions was ready to play the role of James’s adversary. But to his surprise, he realized he was JC Santos leads the cast of “till I met You” with Nadine Lustre and James
Black Eyed Peas revives ‘Where Is The Love?’
PAGE B1
on the original. A 40-member children’s choir is likewise featured on the track. The new visual for Where Is the Love? incorporates even more people. The clip features appearances from Sandra Sterling, whose nephew Alton Sterling was killed by the police, Valerie Castile, whose son Philando Castile was also killed by law enforcement, and Dallas Police Chief David Brown. More entertainers show up here as well: Snoop
Dogg, Rosario Dawson, Connie Britton, Quincy Jones, Lance Bass and others. The Black Eyed Peas discussed the reason behind the revival of “Where Is The Love?” in a short video. “I remember when the Paris attack happened, people would say, we need ‘Where Is The Love?’ again,” will.i.am explains. “And then Belgium happened. And then Turkey, and then Orlando, and then Philando, and Alton before him, and then Dallas. Everyone
was calling on us, like, ‘we need that song again.’” “I hope this song inspires the millennials to go all out,” will.i.am adds. “Scream from the tallest mountain. Care like your freedom depends on it. Pay attention like that is at risk.” Sales from the new version of the track goes to the i.am. angel foundation, a non-profit founded by will.i.am with the goal of “transforming lives through education, inspiration and opportunity.”
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Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla Behind Pokwang’s fun and endearing personality step up their game in ‘Barcelona’ By Monet
Teen King and Queen no more
Lu
by Tessa
ROBIN Williams (rest his soul) once said, “Comedy can be a cathartic way to deal with personal trauma.” Some people second that notion with quotes like ‘happy people are truly the saddest people.’ I don’t necessarily equate my jovial personality to my frustrations (or depressing moments) but it makes sense to say that the happiest people I know and admire are usually the ones who had the toughest lives – and most of them can truly make people laugh. Case in point, and one of my favorite comediennes of all time: Pokwang. I’ve been seeing a lot of her lately in movies, TV shows and newspapers. Pokwang is one of the finest comedy performers of her generation. I know how hard she works as a single mother to her daughter Mae. Although we never had the chance to talk personally, it is my pleasure to write about the stories that lie behind this amazing woman. A story about discovery As most discovered talents, Pokwang did not expect anyone to take notice of her wit and banter on that fateful night at a comedy bar in Cubao. But she is grateful up to this day that comedian and “Your Face Sounds Familiar” contestant Eric Nicolas recognized her talent. According to Nicolas, he discovered Pokwang when she came in as a guest at the said comedy bar. “Sa comedy bar kasi, comedian ako doon, pumasok sila [Pokwang] at gumimik sila as guests... Aba, pumanhik ito, nakainom na, nandoon din ‘yung mga may-ari tapos banter, banter, ayaw magpatalo. So bumaba ako, sabi ko, ‘Boss, okay ito wala tayong babae, pwede nating ipasok.’ Noong time na ‘yon, wala siyang (Pokwang) trabaho,” he said. Nicolas was also the one who encouraged Pokwang to join ABSCBN’s search for a new comedian, “Clown In A Million.” She won the contest, and the rest is history. Success stories: past, present and future Marietta Subong, or better known by her stage name Pokwang, was born August 27, 1970, in Iloilo City, Philippines. She is comedian, actress, TV host, singer, impersonator and salon co-owner.
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AFTER establishing themselves as Philippine showbiz’ Teen King and Queen with hit teleseryes (“Got To Believe,” “Pangako Sa Iyo”) and two blockbuster movies (“She’s Dating The Gangster,” “Crazy Beautiful You”) over the last five years, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla’s much anticipated return to the big screen aims to show their audience a pair of actors who have matured both in their craft and source of emotions. They credit their personal challenges and revered film director Olivia Lamasan (“Madrasta,” “In My Life,” “The Mistress”) for pulling them out of their highly successful teen star molds and take on Star Cinema’s latest drama “Barcelona, A Love Untold,” which opens in theaters nationwide on September 14. “We were all out in our acting for this movie,” declared Bernardo.
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In an interview, she recalls how she and her siblings had to watch TV by the window of their neighbor’s house because they didn’t have their own. She has come a long way from doing that to having her own TV – and actually watching herself on it. “I still remember when I was a kid. Me and my sisters (sic) used to watch TV like this. And when my neighbor closes their windows, no more TV for us so we will go home and imagine what was the end of the show that we are currently watching. Ha-ha, now it is very different, I have my own TV inside my room. Thank you Lord! I feel so blessed!” After winning in a reality talent show, Pokwang subsequently appeared in dramas and sitcoms. She also received a number of awards such as Best Comedy Actress award from the Philippine Movie Press Club for her portrayal in the sitcom “Aalog-Alog” and the Best Female Comedian award from People’s Choice Awards. She gained recognition as well as a movie actress and won Bert Marcelo Lifetime Achievement Award twice. She was also nominated for Best female TV host (“Wowowee”), Best Comedy Actress (“That’s My Doc), 60th FAMAS Awards – Best Actress (“A Mother’s Story”) and Golden Screen TV Awards – Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Program. She currently stars in the newest JaDine TV series as Agnes Nicolas, mother of Ali (played by newbie JC
Santos and JaDine’s newest love triangle). Pokwang’s career soars as her love life blossoms. She is currently in a very happy relationship with her American boyfriend of over a year. Looks like the future is looking good for this funny and charming lady. A love told Lee O’ Brien and Pokwang first met when they worked on the TFC movie “Edsa Woolworth,” which was released in January 2014. The two admitted they’re in a relationship in February. In an interview on “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” Pokwang admitted that she is ready to tie the knot with O’Brien. The smitten man returned to the Philippines and decided to stay there for good – and of course, for the ‘love of his life.’ Such a funny and inspiring person this woman is. I had fun knowing and telling what is behind her Daniel padilla and Kathryn bernardo innate ability to entertain and draw laughter in many ways. I hope that she continues to be as delightful as she has always been. *** monet Lu is a marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. monet is also the founder of the revolutionary allnatural beauty products such Janine tugonon is the first Filipino as enlighten, your solution to to be featured in a Victoria’s Secret
“We don’t know how she does it— how she gets the kind of emotion she wants from us be it in a simple or heavy scene. That’s why I really feel she really is Inang [her actor’s term of endearment for Lamasan, which means mother], because the kind of guidance she gave us in this film is incomparable. From how we deliver our lines, how to cry in a particular scene, to how we have to look in the movie,” added the actress who had to dye and curl her hair in the fashion of Barcelonans for the film. “Pigang-piga kami dito ni (she really squeezed us dry) Inang,” Padilla jested. Barcelona follows the story of Ely (Padilla)—a young man unable to get over a past love—and Mia (Bernardo), a young woman who moved to Spain to rebuild her life and escape a painful past in the Philippines. Their lives collide in the Catalonian city of Barcelona where they fall in love, while secrets of their past resurface, putting their relationship to the test.
“DJ [Padilla’s nickname] and I sort of had to start over for Barcelona. It was as if nothing we learned [in acting] before was enough for what we had to do in this movie. We had to take a crash course to fit into Inang’s expectations from her actors, and the experience both humbled us and hopefully made us better when you see the film.” Another source of KathNiel’s “levelled up” acting as their generation of millennials say today is their relationship as a real life couple. Finally admitting they are exclusive, Padilla, 21 and Bernardo, 20, were happy to share with their fans the news they had long been waiting for during promotions for Barcelona. “You can say this is our gift to them,” said Padilla, whose hand protectively covered Bernardo’s throughout the interview. “Let’s put it this way—what they will see on screen, how we look at each other in the scenes, it’s all part of what we are today.”
Janine Tugonon featured in Victoria’s Secret ad
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JANINE Tugonon pushed her career far enough to be noticed by one of the most famous lingerie brands in the world, Victoria’s Secret. On Tuesday, Victoria’s Secret Pink lingerie line released a new ad which included the former beauty queen playing the role of a college student. Janine, who is now based in the US and is working under MSA Models, shared the video on her
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social media page. Last year, Janine was featured on Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. She has also previously walked on the runways of Los Angeles and New York Fashion Week. Janine represented the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant in 2012, but she fell short of winning the title, placing first runner-up. (Alixandra Caole Vila/Philstar)
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Your Immigration Solution atty. NaNCy Miller Listening to a judge order you removed from the United states is devastating. But the full impact comes later, after the shock wears off. Once the removal order becomes final, immigration & Customs enforcement “iCe” can take steps to execute the order. it may issue a “bag and baggage” letter instructing the noncitizen to report to iCe ready for their deportation. Or, iCe agents may appear at the individual’s residence or place of employment and take the person into custody. However, there is hope for individuals facing removal. in the event that a non-citizen has an enforceable order of removal, execution of the order may be suspended through a request for an administrative stay with the enforcement and Removal Operation “eRO” office of iCe. the administrative stay allows the person who has been ordered removed to remain in the U.s for a specified period of time without fear of deportation. non-citizens already have an automatic stay of removal during the time allowed to file an appeal with the Board of immigration Appeals and while that appeal is pending. However, filing a petition for review in Federal court does not provide an automatic stay. Moreover, where appeal rights have been exhausted and no other legal recourse exists, an administrative stay of removal may be the only option. the administrative stay request is filed with the eRO office having jurisdiction over where the alien lives. it is granted in the eRO officer’s exercise of discretion. so, the basis must be persuasive and strongly documented. it must show that the non-citizen’s (and family members) equities, hardship and ties to this country merit
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PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS WHAT is the hardening of the artery? the hardening of the artery, medically known as arteriosclerosis, is a condition that starts very early in life, where blood clots and cholesterol deposits adhere to the inner wall of the arteries non-stop for decades. they eventually make the arteries throughout the body lose their normal elasticity and transform them into hard or even calcified pipes, whose caliber is narrowed, severely blocked or even totally blocked. After some years, they cut off the blood, nutrition, and oxygen supplies to vital organs. Who are affected by this disease? the common impression is that hardening of the arteries affects only the older people, those in their 60s and 70s, and beyond. this not true. Autopsies performed on many young children, as young as 5 who died of accidents, have shown that their arteries in the heart and the rest of the body already had a thin lining or coating of hardening. You could imagine how much thicker they are inside us, adults. But there are many individual factors (genetic and lifestyle, behavior, etc.) that determine how slow or fast the process is in each person. How does arteriosclerosis cause health problems? the hardening of the arteries by itself does not cause any problems, so long as the arteries are not blocked more than 50 percent, and capacity to transport blood to the muscles and vital organs is not impaired or severely reduced. if the caliber or the inner channel of the arteries is severely blocked by hardening of the arteries, and the arteries are unable to bring enough volume of blood (which contains oxygen and nutrients) to the tissues and organs they supply. those tissues and organs (like the brain, heart, kidneys, intestines, arms, legs and feet) will suffer from lack of oxygen and nutrition, which is medically termed ischemia. What conditions does hardening of the arteries cause? they vary according to the specific artery obstructed and range from dizziness, blindness, stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, liver failure, intestinal gangrene, leg gangrene and foot gangrene, where tissues rot
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Staying removal after a Calendar of Events across America final order of deportation a stay of removal. Any and all negative issues (including immigration and criminal violations) must be disclosed. How that is disclosed may not make, but could certainly break, an application. Additionally, the possibility of future relief under the immigration and nationality Act is relevant in establishing that removal from this country should be stayed. A non-citizen with a pending motion to reopen a prior removal order may successfully convince eRO to administratively stay his removal until a decision is entered by a court. An alien with an approved family petition whose priority date is not yet current may also warrant this discretionary relief pending eligibility to adjust. All relevant factors specific to the applicant’s case are considered by the officer during the adjudication of the stay. the absence of information that should have been included will also be considered by the officer. the alien must appear in person at the eRO office in order to fee-in and file the application. next, the non-citizen may need to appear before an eRO officer before a decision is made on the administrative stay of removal. if the stay is approved the eRO officer will place the non-citizen under an order of supervision. the order of supervision will require the non-citizen to periodically appear before eRO. Due to the discretionary nature of the stay, any missed appointments may result in the denial or revocation of the stay of removal. the stay of removal and order of supervision allow the alien to apply for work authorization. in fact, most eRO officers encourage the alien to apply for employment authorization because they want to see that the alien is a contributing member of society (working with authorization and paying taxes). With that employment authori-
zation, comes the right to apply for a social security card and a driver’s license. Aside from the obvious reason to apply in order to avoid removal, there are many other good reasons to seek this protection. During the pendency of the stay, the law may change to the alien’s benefit. Additionally, the non-citizen may become eligible for the relief for which they were waiting. Where the alien or family member has a serious medical condition, a stay of removal in certain cases may be the difference between life and death. Maintaining family unity, thus allowing spouses, parents and children to remain intact, is priceless. the decision to file for an administrative stay is not one that should be made lightly or without all the relevant information. Clearly the decision should only be made after a thorough consultation with an immigration lawyer who is wellversed in deportation-related matters. Once the decision is made to apply, a well-prepared and comprehensive application for stay of removal filed by an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney is crucial. Facing imminent execution of a removal order is terrifying but it may not be hopeless. An administrative stay of removal may allow the non-citizen to remain in this country despite the removal order. *** 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
Artery hardening is a killer Health@Heart
LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 8-14, 2016
because of the lack of oxygen and nutrients. there are other tissues and organs that could be similarly affected. How common is this condition among teenagers? As stated earlier, this process starts at an early age, earlier than what the medical community care to admit or address. Obviously among teenagers hardening of the arteries are milder than those in the 20s or 30s or older, and certainly worse among those in the 40s and above. in general, the older a person is, the more prone he/she is to have more hardening of the arteries. What should young people do to stay healthy? Preventive medicine is the best “cure,” the very essence of my health book entitled “Let’s stop ‘killing’ Our Children,” which advocates for disease prevention from the cellular (DnA) level and healthy lifestyles starting in the womb and in the crib. this is the only way to prevent what we today call “normal and expected diseases of the old,” like high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, heart diseases, stroke, Alzheimer’s or even cancer. Future children and adults do not necessarily have to have these so-called “normal and expected diseases.” there is no wiser strategy in staying healthy and maximizing longevity than to prevent diseases at the DnA level through a healthy lifestyle (of the mother) for the developing fetus. it will continue on from the crib until adulthood and the senior years. At whatever age, today is not too late to starting living healthier. While there was confusion half a century ago as to what a healthy lifestyle was, today, with advances in research, medical and computer technologies, we now know much more as to what a healthy lifestyle entails. it is only logical to expect health problems when we smoke poisonous substances, when we overeat, eat the “wrong” food, stay overweight, not exercise, do not relax, or do not take care of ourselves. All these unhealthy habits and behaviors affect us and the fetus inside a pregnant woman. Plain common sense will tell us that this lifestyle will lead to health problems. One does not have to be a doctor to come to this conclusion. What could young people do to slow it down? the best time to start is really at conception, when the DnA is just developing, which is actually at the very start of pregnancy. Protecting the DnA and starting with a clean slate (no damaged DnA) is the key. now, for you, today is the
right moment. We are never too old to start a healthy lifestyle, and must not wait to grow even older before adopting a healthier lifestyle. the younger we are, the better. since we were unable to choose our parents, there was (is) nothing we can do about the genetic factor. But the modifiable risks, which are within our control, could and should, be avoided or reduced. A recipe for a healthy lifestyle includes the following ingredients: staying off drugs and smoking, eating low carbohydrate diet of fish, vegetables, fruits, high-fiber cereals, instead of pork, beef, eggs, diary products (skim milk is good); exercising every day by aerobic exercises, like brisk walking, swimming, tai chi, ballroom dancing or rock & rolling, learning how to relax, preferably with family, a friend, or friends, with good music and good laughter, and watching your weight. Being at peace with others and, especially with yourself, brings down the adrenalin and harmful chemicals in our system, and increases the endorphins and other good chemicals (happy hormones) in our body. All these help slow down hardening of the arteries and aging. the principle is longevity through disease prevention and healthy lifestyle…from the cellular (DnA) level for future children. For us, the start is today. Are there drugs that can slow down aging ? there are medications today that help in lowering blood cholesterol and fats, treat high blood pressure, arthritis, and diabetes, but we do have any yet that can slow down the process of hardening of the arteries or aging. Medical research has been in constant search for this “Fountain of Youth” since time immemorial. in the meantime, we can, today, slow down the hardening of the arteries and avoid diseases to a significant degree through prevention, by adopting a lifestyle that will give us a longer, healthier, happier, and more productive life. Ponce de Leon would have loved to be living in our “lookand-feel-younger” generation. *** 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)
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42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia United Bicolandia Los Angeles (UBLA) invites everyone, Bicolanos, devotees and friends to come and celebrate the 42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Patroness of the Bicol Region. The festivities will start on Sept. 9, with the translacion at 5pm at the Immaculate of Mary Church (4954 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029. A nightly novena Mass follows from Sept. 9 to Sept. 16 at 6 PM except on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 3:30 PM and Sunday, Sept. 11, at 2;30 PM and culminates on Saturday, Sept. 17, with the ninth day novena at 8am, foot & fluvial procession at 9 AM, and a Concelebrat- ed Mass at 10 am at Lincoln Park, 3501 Valley Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Main celebrant will be HE Most Rev Arturo Bastes, Bishop of Sorsogon. For details, please call Lanie Ber- rei (818) 281-3169 or Gene Leano (818) 439-6896.
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Arts & Craft: a food and beer event in Los Angeles To kick off the 25th Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture (FPAC), we’re celebrating with two of our favorite things: food and beer! Arts & Craft will take place at the Pico House in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring food by The Park’s Finest, Stoked California BBQ, and SALO Series. Music will be provided by Gingee. Aside from the gastronomic offerings, an intimate art exhibit will also showcase the last 25 years of FPAC. Pico House is located at 424 North Main Street, Los Angeles, CA. Tickets are $40 / person and can be purchased at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arts-craft-a-food-and- beer-event-tickets-27360749739.
17th annual Asian Small Business Expo 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. Admission to the expo is FREE! It will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Almansor Court Banquet & Conference Center, 700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801. To register, please visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/annual-asian- small-business-expo-tickets-23824155691. Walk-ins are also welcome on the day of the expo. For more information, please visit www.apisbp.org.
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CAC to celebrate Town Fiesta The Cabatuan Association of California will celebrate their Annual Town Fiesta in honor of their Patron Saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino on September 10, 2016 with a mass at 11:00 am at Nati Matitu-Mercado’s residence - 15255 Knapp St. North Hills, CA, 91343. Please invite four friends and relatives. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa. For other inquir- ies, please call Esoy Tavarro, president, (714) 797-0073; Sally Bilbao, adviser (951) 878- 5589; Boboy Mosqueda, adviser (714) 519-8973; or Nati Matitu-Mercado, adviser at (818) 894-5142.
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Lorenzo Ruiz: A musical play On Saturday, September 17, the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community will present a musical play entitled Lorenzo Ruiz: the First Filipino Saint. This play will star Mat Ranillo III, a Filipino TV, film and stage actor. Purchase your tickets today, for a donation of $20 for one event or $25 for both events. Seats are limited so get your tickets early. For ticket sales, please contact St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish office at (909) 595-9545. St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community is located at 747 Meadowpass Rd., Walnut, California 91789.
27th annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia Come and celebrate the 27th annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia, the patroness of Bicolandia. The grand fiesta will be on Saturday, Sept. 17, beginning with a concelebrated mass at 1 p.m., followed by a Fluvial Procession. It will be held at Liberty State Park, Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey, City, New Jersey 07305.
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AAPA’s leadership symposium Join the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) for an all-day event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with exceptional and diverse keynote speakers and panelists, as well as multiple workshops on diversity and leadership topics. The symposium is open to everyone, and will be held at the Pacific Palms Hotel, 1 Industry Hills Parkway, City of Industry, CA 91744. For more information, please visit http://aapamentoring.com/.
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8th Regional Celebration of the Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz The Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Region invites everyone to the 8th Regional Celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the First Filipino Saint. Festivi- ties will be on Saturday, September 24, 2016, at this year’s host parish, Holy Family Church - Glendale (209 East Lomita Avenue, Glendale CA 91205). Procession starts at 4:30 PM , then Mass at 5:30 PM with Most Reverend Oscar A. Solis DD, Auxiliary Bishop of Los Ange- les, as Principal Celebrant. Reception , fellowship and program will immediately follow at the Holy Family Grade School Auditorium across the church. For more information, please contact Ping Bayani at(913) 558-4332 or bayani0950@yahoo.com.
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Virgen de los Remedios Festivities at the Los Angeles Cathedral Thousands of Marian devotees all over Los Angeles will gather at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels for the Diamond Jubilee of Virgen de los Remedios Canonical Coro- nation on Sunday, Sept. 25 at 3:30 p.m. The Glendale High School Band, conducted by Grammy nominee Amy Rangel, will lead the afternoon procession participated by both Fili- pinos and Latinos in their traditional costumes. This will be followed by a Solemn High Mass with the joint choirs of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, St. Columban, Couples for Christ and the award winning Immaculate Heart of Mary Children’s Choir accompanied by musical artists from the Filipino American community. Everyone is invited to come and bring their Marian images. Organizations are asked to bring their banners for the procession to begin at the Cathedral Plaza. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is located at 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012-2707.
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Bataan Legacy Historical Society multimedia presentation Bataan Legacy Historical Society, a non-profit educational 501(c)(3) organization, will hold a multimedia presentation at the San Francisco Asian Art Museum from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, please visit www.bataanlegacy.org.
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25th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is proud to announce the date & venue for the anticipated Silver Anniversary edition of its annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture. FPAC 25, the 25th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC), will take place Saturday, October 8 at the beautiful Echo Park Lake. Admission is FREE. The popular festival, the City of Los Angeles’ Filipino American Event, is the longest-running Filipino cultural celebration in Southern Califor- nia. Audiences can expect to enjoy traditional and contemporary Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture. This year’s theme, “Samu’t Sari: Showcasing the Diverse Creative Tapestry of the FilAm Community,” lends its meaning to the Tagalog phrase which loosely translates to “diversity.” While certainly a hot topic in today’s society, FilAm Arts focuses on the vast contributions of Filipino American artists to the creative tapestry of the City. For more information, please visit www.filamarts.org or call 2133803722. For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please email info@filamarts.org.
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B September 8-14, 2016 • LAS VeGAS ASIAN JOUrNAL
Nathan Adelson Hospice officially acquires Las Vegas Solari Hospice Care LAS VEGAS—Nathan Adelson Hospice, the largest non-profit hospice in Nevada, announced today that its acquisition of Las Vegas Solari Hospice Care has become effective as of today’s date, September 7, 2016. Solari, an end-of-life health care organization in Southern Nevada owned by HealthCare Partners Nevada, LLC, has closed its operations and finalized the transition of its patients to Nathan Adelson Hospice. This marks the largest hospice acquisition in Nevada and highlights the changes in the industry as more acquisitions take place throughout the nation. As the industry shifts, a growing number of healthcare systems are turning to hospice leaders, like Nathan Adelson Hospice, that convey an innovative and strong delivery system. “Making this acquisition official is an exciting time for Nathan Adelson Hospice and our community,” said Nathan Adelson Hospice President and CEO Carole Fisher. “As the leader in end-of-life care in Southern Nevada for more than 38 years, Nathan Adelson Hospice con-
tinues to forge a path forward resulting in improved access for patients and their loved ones. We respect HealthCare Partners’ deep knowledge and passion for providing high quality patient care, and share a commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for patients, families, employees and volunteers. This acquisition strengthens our position in the post-acute continuum and as the hospice of choice in Southern Nevada.” Bard Coats MD, Market President of HealthCare Partners Nevada, LLC, said, “Throughout the years HealthCare Partners and Nathan Adelson Hospice have worked closely together. Our mutual respect and confidence in one another allows for a seamless transition in the quality of care for our patients and families.” Fisher says that Nathan Adelson Hospice will retain its longestablished community identity and will continue to explore strategic relationships and partnerships that ensure sustainability. Nathan Adelson Hospice, the trusted partner in hospice care and palliative medicine for 38 years, is the largest non-profit
hospice in Southern Nevada, caring for an average of 400 hospice and palliative care patients daily. In 1978, Nathan Adelson Hospice began providing home care hospice service in Southern Nevada with the mission to offer patients and their loved ones with comprehensive end-of-life care and influence better care for all in the community. In 1983, Nathan Adelson Hospice opened an in-patient hospice in Las Vegas, and today the hospice is recognized as a national model for superior hospice care. The mission of the hospice is to be the Hospice of Choice, the Employer of Preference and a Training Center of Excellence for comprehensive end of life care. Its vision is simple: no one should end the journey of life alone, afraid or in pain. The hospice also is home to The Center for Compassionate Care, a non-profit counseling agency providing individual, group and family counseling services to address grief, loss and issues related to surviving life-threatening illnesses. For more information, visit www. nah.org.
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA
(part 1 of 2) DO you sometimes have a nagging feeling that despite what the media paints as a rosy picture of the current state of affairs we are supposed to be having, things are not what they seem to be? There is reason to believe that unemployment numbers are a work of fiction rather than a reflection of the current situation. Indicators of economic and social malaise are still very strong. Several years ago in England, there were 35,000 applicants for 1,000 job openings for the makers of Range Rover. You probably don’t have to look far to see those among us still struggling to find jobs. Many have simply given up and have become part of a statistic that is not factored in when a comprehensive picture of the current state of affairs is presented supposedly by those so called “experts” on the economy. Others are holding down two full-time jobs or even multiple part time jobs just to put food on the table. Companies can afford to be picky these days. Some even have the gall to fire entire departments, either to cut on costs or to greedily improve their bottom line, leaving just one or two personnel to handle the work of entire departments knowing, in a calculated way, the ones “lucky” enough to retain their jobs won’t balk and put up a fight knowing how difficult it is to find employment in an economy as tough as this. Some soulless companies are gleefully aware that in a shrinking job market, they hold all the aces. I know of one who had to pull out a hat trick in a fiercely competitive job market. Being out of a job for 2 years, she knew she had to stand out in order to be considered for the job among a sea of job applicants. Aware that her advance age, the influx of new graduates willing to take far less and her years of experience Dr. Vicky belo would be regarded as a deterrent only recently, the appeals court affirmed the RTC to landing a job with fair comruling. pensation and benefits, she first The appeals court said the lower court was right became a volunteer without pay when it dismissed the case for lack of jurisdiction. for 3 months. She showed the “Thus, the docket fees prescribed for real actions company what she is capable of. should have been paid,” it said. That got her the job. In this economy, it is a game of the survival of the fittest. Throw in a dash of creativity and a ton of tenacity and persistence. If figures are to be believed, one out of every 6 Americans is still out of a job. The real figure of those without a job is close to 94 million. Every economic and
Vicky Belo wins in case filed by ex-lover by Jomar
Canlas ManilaTimes.net
THE Court of Appeals has junked a plea filed by the former partner of celebrity cosmetic surgeon Victoria “Vicky” Belo to be declared a co-owner of her properties, because of the non-payment of docket fees. In a 16-page ruling penned by Associate Justice Ramon Bato, Jr. and concurred in by Associate Justices Manuel Barrios and Maria Elisa Sempio Diy, the court’s 12th Division dismissed Joel Santos’ petition for lack of merit. On April 9, 2008, Santos filed a Petition for Declaration of Co-ownership in which he said that sometime in August 1990, he entered into an exclusive romantic relationship with Belo. Santos and Belo were already separated from their spouses and would later pursue the nullification of their respective marriages. The relationship turned sour and Belo eventually broke up with Santos. Santos argued that he had rights over Belo’s properties, because he spent his own money to put up her businesses. The Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Taguig City earlier junked the case, noting that Santos failed to pay docket fees. This prompted the litigant to go to the appeals court. In its June 14, 2016 ruling released to the media
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Bringing moxie back “We now live in a cynical age when no one, it seems, can be trusted. Even those institutions we used to hold sacred and sacrosanct are suspect.” political pundit is focusing on the need to create jobs that will bring the country back on track. Even Bill Gates didn’t mince his prognosis of our sick economy. Our economy has been on life-support even with a series of stimulus packages in 2009. You have a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach that those at the helm have absolutely no idea besides throwing money on how to fix a broken system. If nothing changes soon, the debt burden of $20 plus TRILLION will be passed on to the second and third generations. What a sordid legacy to pass on to the next generations! Frankly, I think it will take a sea change of heart and spirit not only in the leadership, from top to bottom in the structure of government, but more importantly, among the majority of ordinary Americans to revive this country back to the glory days. It’s time to bring moxie back. But first, let’s do a brief autopsy of this moribund mess we are in by asking ourselves a few questions and searching for the answers. What can you say of a country that has outsourced so much of the production of practically all its needs to China, India and every part of the world, all in the name of improving profits among soulless multinational companies? What can you say of a country that has forgotten that work itself and the creation of quality products that satisfy the creative impulse of human beings are, in it of itself, a blessing to the people who create them? To create something from concept to actualization is ennobling. To be rewarded for creating something that people find useful and that lasts, has been the secret of what was once a strong US economy. We have taken advantage of the low wages and traded on the appalling work conditions of other countries and the lower costs of overseas production but in the process, created a serious imbalance and a lingering malaise in the psyche of the American workforce. Uncontrolled outsourcing has taken away tens of thousands of jobs, which in turn, decimated what was once a strong American middle class. Perhaps a group of economists and business people with political clout, goofed big time along the way. Whether by plain stupidity or by willful intent to de-
stroy, our political and economic leaders in the last 30 years, may have placed us on track towards self-destruction with suicidal policies. You want to finger point and put the blame on the myopic architects of this economic disaster. More than likely, they could be regarded as a band of conspirators, so-called economic experts and politicians, who sold out the well-being of the country with their economic policies which resulted in the conditions that we are seeing and suffering from these days. If these were Medieval Times, they would be flogged or be found hanging from their toes or boiled in oil in the public square for treason and economic sabotage of the highest order. But for the unemployed who has lost his home and has trouble putting food on his table, none of the finger pointing and the brilliant but empty rhetoric matters at all. In a situation such as what we have where a significant percentage of the working class is without a source of income, the times call for a crash course on survival where each man must learn to fend for himself. We now live in a cynical age when no one, it seems, can be trusted. Even those institutions we used to hold sacred and sacrosanct are suspect. We assume everyone is a con artist that lies and lies and lies until proven otherwise. We have now learned to steer clear of strangers, screen our calls, trash suspicious emails asking us about account information or be wary of just about anything new. We even refuse to answer the door. In the media and online, we have seen a parade of scandals: from political scumbags, depraved men of the cloth, big-time con artists to scandal-plagued, shameless celebrities who trade on their image to push depraved agendas useful only to the elite class they have created for themselves. We seem to be breathing their toxic fumes when they self-destruct into flames. Honor, decency, civility and respect are in short supply these days. And we heave a heavy sigh and shake our heads in disbelief. (To be continued) *** Nota bene: monette Adeva maglaya is SVp of Asian Journal publications, Inc. to send comments, e-mail monette.
Las Vegas Legacy Lions Club to install 2016-2017 officers, members THE Las Vegas Legacy Lions Club (LVLLC), a two-time recipient of the prestigious Patches from Lions Club International (LCI), is set to induct its officers and members for 2016-2017 at the Palace Station Hotel & Casino on Saturday, September 10 at 6:00 p.m. Past Lions District 46 Governor Lion Noni Rybka is inducting officer. This was announced by Cynthia Derequito, LVLLC Charter president and Past Zone chairpperson. To be inducted are Dante R. Fontimayor, president; Rosabelle M. Calibay, first vice-president; Miguel Arkangel Barro, second vice president; Charter president and Past Zone chairman Cynthia G. Derequito, secretary; Veronica L. Fontimayor, treasurer; Jesusa J. Barro, auditor; Aldy Calibay, Public Relations Officer; Emelene Garcia, Lion Tamer; Ruby Hao, Lion Twister; Past Zone chairman and Past LVLLC president Resty M. Lopez, Membership chair; Salve Vargas Edelman, Guiding Lion; and Past Lions District 46 Governor Noni Rybka, adviser. Considered the largest Charter Club in District 46 that encompasses Nevada, the LVLLC falls under the Family Membership and Military Club category. It has 81 Charter members composed of spouses who had either served or currently serving in the military, their siblings and children. For its pioneering effort to establish a family-cum-military Lions club, it received its first Patch from the LCI. An impromptu organizational meeting at the Barkada Avenue in December 2013 gave birth to the LVLLC. Its Charter officers were formally installed and Charter members were inducted by then Lions District 46 Governor Noni Rybka at the Gold Coast Hotel & Casino on January 19, 2014. The LVLLC’s priority project aims to provide Vision Screening to Nevada children six months to six years of age and their families. The Vision Screening program, a novel concept by Past Lions
District Governor Noni Rybka, was conceived in response to the challenge posed by Lions Club International (LCI) to various clubs to come to the aid of visionimpaired children in Nevada. Though still in its infancy, the LVLLC has engaged in numerous noteworthy Lions projects since 2014. It includes the “One Sight Partnership with Lens Crafters” on January 27-28, 2014 for the children of Andre Agassi Preparatory School where they assisted and provided snacks to volunteers for two days. The club also spearheaded the “Kids and Adults Vision Screening” at the Nevada Early Intervention Services (NEIS) in partnership with Lions Sight First Foundation and other local Lions clubs. The LVLLC has also conducted a vigorous campaign for a favorite LCI project─ Eyeglasses Recycling for its Sight First Foundation program─ as well as regularly assisting in Adult and Children Vision Screenings held in the Malls. Locally, the club also supported the annual Opportunity Village Christmas event, held bowling and golf tournaments and other social activities to raise funds for its ongoing community projects. Officers and committee members also attended District meetings and conventions throughout the years. On the distaff side, the club actively engaged in community events such as the Fiesta Pilipino, and other local association picnics. In 2015, spearheaded by Past Zone Chairman and Past LVLLC president Resty Lopez, the club sponsored the Coronado Leo Club, a school-based Alpha Leo Club with 65-75 youth members. Leo Clubs provide community services to students as part of their high school curriculum. For this, LVLLC scored its second Patch from the LCI as Leo Club Sponsor. The current Coronado Leo Club officers were installed by Immediate Past District 46 Governor
Josie Harrison on April 28, 2016. The LVLLC remains its host club that supports their projects and guides them during meetings. Other LVLLC ongoing projects include assistance to the reconstruction of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) school library in the Philippines. It is a project proposed by Lion Rosabelle Calibay in response to the needs of PUP students. The club raised $2,450 through various fundraising activities such as mahjong sessions, a popularity contest, a bowling tournament, and a golf tournament in addition to Club members’ personal contributions. In March 2016, Lion Dante Fontimayor and his wife Lion Veronica, traveled to San Pascual Elementary School in San Narciso, Zambales, Philippines, and distributed school supplies, including backpacks, to students. Believing that the youth are the future leaders of the country, LVLLC is currently raising funds to help with the construction of a school cafeteria to take care of the children’s health and food needs while in school. For more information and details on how interested readers can help and support LVLLC’s various fundraising efforts to fund community projects in Las Vegas and in the Philippines, please contact Fundraising Event chairs Lion Cynthia Derequito at (702) 338-8570 or e-mail to cynderix@yahoo.com and Lion Veronica Fontimayor at (757) 348-6616. ### (By Cynthia G. Derequito) LVLLC Lion Dante Fontimayor and wife Lion Veronica recently visited with faculty and students of San Pascual Elementary School in San Narciso, Zambales, Philippines. The couple donated school supplies on behalf of Las Vegas Legacy Lions Club. LVLLC Lion Dante Fontimayor (left) with current Lions District 46 Governor Cal Bushek and Past Lions District 46 Governor Noni Rybka.
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