We’ve got you covered from Hollywood to Broadway... and Online!
Volume10 – Issue 9 • 16 Pages
N O V E MBE R 2 5 - DE C E MBE R 1 , 2 0 1 6 Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858 • 449 Hoboken Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858
DFA chief: Better PH-US relations under Trump by Dana
SioSon AJPress
MILITARY ALLIES. U.S. Admiral Harry Harris (right) U.S. Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, poses with Philippine Armed Forces Chief Gen. Ricardo Visaya for a photo following their annual Mutual Defense Board meeting at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Tuesday, Nov. 22. The annual meeting came at a time when Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the scaling down joint military exercises and other activities between the two countries. Philstar.com photo
DATELINE
USA
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
The future of DACA under the Trump administration
one of President-elect donald trump’s campaign promises was a strict crackdown on immigration to the United states. in that promise, he expressed commitment to ending many of President Barack obama’s immigration policies, including the deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (dACA), which was introduced in 2012. holding his first press conference since the election, obama urged the new president-elect to think twice before getting rid of dACA because of the benefits it’s delivered to its recipients, who “for all practical purposes are American kids.” “these are kids who were brought here by their parents. they did nothing wrong. they’ve gone to school. they have pledged allegiance to the flag. some of them have joined the military. they’ve enrolled in school. By definition, if they’re part of this program, they are solid, wonderful young people of good character,” obama said on
U.s. President Barack obama is optimistic about a “better and stronger” relationship between the Philippines and the United states under the incoming trump administration, according to Philippine foreign Affairs secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. Yasay said obama told him during the Asia-Pacific economic Cooperation (APeC) last week that U.s. President-elect donald trump and Philippine President rodrigo duterte’s seemingly similar “temperament” could play a great factor in boosting the two countries’ relationship.
WAshinGton, d.C. — As evidenced by the last election cycle, higher voter registration rates and fil-Ams running for public office are among positive indicators of engagement in the electoral process. “While the 2016 election results may be delightful to some and disappointing to others, we are nonetheless heartened by the growing participation of filipino Americans who exercised their democratic right to choose the person who will lead our country in the next four years,” said naffAA national Chairman Brendan flores. “We are also encouraged by the number of filipino Americans who ran for public office in local and state elections. this is what community empowerment is all about, and they proudly demonstrated these aspirations on november 8.” naffAA’s filAmVote program was notably successful in san diego, California,
u PAGE A4
u PAGE A2
DFA Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr.
PH, US military chiefs FVR on ‘sneaky’ say ties remain robust Marcos burial: An at the end of a mutual defense Board and security engagement Board meeting came after threats mAniLA — the chiefs of the by Philippine President rodrigo Philippine armed forces and the duterte to reduce military coopUnited states Pacific Command eration with Washington and exsaid on tuesday, nov. 22, the two pand security ties with China and countries’ military ties remain ro- russia. bust, with both sides committed Adm. harry B. harris Jr., head to their alliance and cooperation of the U.s. Pacific Command, coon maritime security, counterter- chaired the meeting with Gen. rorism and humanitarian aid. ricardo r. Visaya, the Philippine the upbeat statement issued armed forces chief. by
TereSa Cerojano Philstar.com
harris said last week in Washington that there’s been no change so far in U.s.-Philippine military cooperation but that there could be a “re-scoping” of some big joint exercises in 2017. the Philippines and the U.s. are longstanding allies who signed a mutual defense treaty in 1951. “the successful completion of the mdB-seB ensures continued,
u PAGE A2
Dayan admits delivering drug money from Kerwin to De Lima by Dana
SioSon AJPress
u PAGE A3
Group hails growing civic participation of Filipino-Americans
According to the foreign secretary, he had the chance to meet and talk with obama during the leaders’ gala dinner and picturetaking for the traditional APeC family photo. Yasay represented duterte, who was unable to attend the events due to jetlag. “he (obama) told me he is expecting a better and stronger relationship between the Philippines and the United states under the new administration of Presidentelect trump because they seem to have the same kind of temperament. And i replied with ‘i hope so’,” Yasay said. the decades-long relationship
PNP chief Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa said Ronnie Dayan will be a “friendly witness” in the congressional hearing. PNP photo
ronnie dayan, former driver and supposed bagman of senator Leila de Lima, confessed on tuesday, november 22, that he previously collected drug money for the senator from alleged drug lord Kerwin espinosa. dayan was earlier accused by Philippine President rodrigo duterte of collecting national Bilibid Prison (nBP) drug trade money for de Lima’s 2016 senatorial bid. he was also accused by duterte
u PAGE A2
‘insult’ to veterans by Dana
SioSon AJPress
former President fidel ramos on monday, november 21, expressed his dismay over late President ferdinand marcos’s unannounced funeral last week. despite the public outcry of martial law victims and their families, marcos was buried “in secrecy” and with military honors at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ cemetery) on friday, november 18, in taguig City. “i felt very bad espe- Former President Fidel Ramos cially for the veterans as well as the members of the AfP, retirees and other active members of PnP which i commanded sometime ago as well as the Philippine Coast Guard,” ramos said. he also called the burial an act of “insult” to the “sacrifices of our Armed forces, PnP (Philippine national Police), Coast Guard, veterans – retired and active.” marcos, who was ousted during the 1986 edsA revolution, died of kidney, heart and lung ailments in 1989 while he was in exile in hawaii. ramos allowed the late strongman’s remains to
u PAGE A2
Jersey City honors Fil-Am Paralympics Gold Medalist Ray Martin by MoMar
G. ViSaya
AJPress
JerseY CitY — Jersey City mayor steven fulop and the City Council honored raymond martin, a filipino-American multiple gold medalist at the 2016 Paralympic Games in rio de Janeiro and the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, during the Jersey City Council meeting tuesday evening. “Congratulations to raymond for his incredible achievements on a global scale,” said Jersey City mayor steven fulop. “Jersey City is lucky to have a role model like him and we look forward to him setting many more records throughout his career.” A hudson County schools of technology (hCst) County Prep high school
Class of 2012 alumnus and Jersey City native, martin set the Paralympic record in the 1500m t52 race with a time of 3:40:63 in the 2016 Paralympic Games in rio de Janeiro. he also competed in the 400m race taking the top medal of gold, and winning the silver medal in the 100m race. “We are proud to have a Jersey City native like raymond represent our city on an international stage,” said Jersey City Council President rolando Lavarro. “Just as he has done in London and now in rio de Janeiro, i have no doubt that he will continue to make Jersey City proud and serve as a positive role model for our city’s youth.” Raymond Martin is flanked by members of his family, supporters and friends along with the members he previously also competed in the of the Jersey City City Council after it honored him for his achievements at both Paralympic Games 2012 Paralympic Games in London, in London (2012) and Rio de Janeiro (2016) where he won a total is six gold medals and one silver.
u PAGE A3
AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya
A NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
From the Front Page
DFA chief: Better PH-US relations under… PAGE A1 t
between the Philippines and the United States has been put into question in the past few months, following Duterte’s continuous anti-U.S. remarks for the latter’s alleged interference in the Philippine government’s crackdown on illegal drugs During the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Laos last September, Obama also scrapped his scheduled meeting with Duterte after reports indicated that the Philippine leader called him a “son of a b*tch.” Although Duterte and Obama both attended the APEC summit in Peru, no bilateral talks were conducted between the two leaders. NO SHOW. Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr represents President Rodrigo Duterte at a photo of leaders taken on the second day of the 24th APEC Leaders’ Meeting in Lima, Peru on Sunday, November 20. Among the others present were President Barack Obama, “But he (Obama) was really Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The leaders had traditional saying something that, to my Peruvian shawls draped over their shoulders. Malacañang photo by King Rodriguez mind, was forward looking. Perhaps he saw that our relationship has been strained only with the leaders involved. But with Trump, maybe he is more optiber of drills reduced from the cur- fense Cooperation Agreement, mistic,” Yasay said. PAGE A1 t This year’s APEC summit robust relations between the U.S. rent 13 to about six or seven and which seeks to establish U.S. and Philippine militaries,” the for training to be re-focused on military facilities inside Philip- was Duterte’s first and Obama’s statement said. “This highlights humanitarian assistance, disaster pine military camps for preposithe enduring commitment of relief and counterterrorism. The tioning of troops and assets. But he did not elaborate on both countries to the U.S.-Philip- department also wants to scrap two naval exercises that include that or the reduction in exerpine alliance.” cises, saying more details may PAGE A1 t It said they look forward to territorial defense training. Defense Secretary Delfin be available when the minutes of of having an illicit relationship continued cooperation in areas with the senator, which both De central to both countries’ na- Lorenzana presented the propos- the meeting are released. Duterte earlier said he wants Lima and Dayan recently protional and security interests, in- al to Duterte earlier this month. cluding humanitarian assistance Officials said the proposal was to a review of the 2014 agreement, fessed to be true. Although Dayan denied that he and disaster relief, counterter- be presented to the Americans but Lorenzana later said the rorism, cybersecurity and mari- during Tuesday’s board meeting Duterte administration would received drug money from other implement previous agreements drug lords, he admitted that he for concurrence. time security. Padilla said the two sides dis- with the Americans, including delivered money for De Lima The Philippine defense departfrom Kerwin several times. ment earlier said it wants the num- cussed the 2014 Enhanced De- that pact. n “Wala akong tinatanggap na drug money sa mga drug lord. Kay Kerwin meron. Meron akong natatanggap para kay coffin in his hometown of Batac, burial does not violate the Philip- senadora (I don’t receive drug PAGE A1 t pine Constitution. return to the Philippines dur- Ilocos Norte. money from drug lords. From Ramos said that Marcos’ fu- Kerwin, yes. I received some In August of this year, Presiing his administration in 1992, along with the following condi- dent Rodrigo Duterte later gave neral at the Libingan ng mga from him that are for senator),” tions: first, Marcos’s body would the go-signal to bury the late Bayani is a “step backward” for Dayan said. be brought directly to Laoag dictator at the Heroes’ Cemetery, President Rodrigo Duterte’s adAccording to him, about five Airport in Ilocos Norte without living up to his campaign prom- ministration. transactions occurred in 2014 “You must understand, that is when De Lima was still the juspassing through Manila; second, ise that he would let the event Marcos would be buried in his happen to “unite” and “heal” just a happening in a series of tice secretary. He, however, said happenings. The scheme of the he cannot recall the total of drug family mausoleum in Batac upon the nation. After two months of hear- Marcos family with the conniv- money he collected from Kerarrival; and third, there would be no “pomp and protocol and ex- ings, the Supreme Court ruled ance of some elements of Armed win. travaganzas” during the funeral. that Marcos can be buried at the Forces including the national po“Hindi ko po binibilang magThis agreement was signed cemetery in November, dismiss- lice — some only, not everybody kano ang binibigay sa akin, pag former First Lady Imelda Marcos ing all the petitions against the — is a step backwards for this inabot lang nilalagay ko sa saand former Interior Secretary Ra- burial, which were mostly filed administration in the sense that sakyan… Yun ang utos ni ma’am fael Alunan on August 20, 1992. by victims of torture during the they are losing support, they are kaya susunod lang ako sa utos ni losing friends,” Ramos said. Since then, the late dictator’s re- martial law period. ma’am. Secretary pa siya (I never According to the court, the u PAGE A3 count how much were given to mains have been frozen in a glass
PH, US military chiefs say ties…
last. Trump, who won the U.S. presidential election this month against Hillary Clinton, is set to assume office in January next year. “We wanted to convey the message to America that our relationship can be stronger if there will be reevaluation and readjustments of our relationship where this time, dependency will not be allowed. That is more fundamental,” Yasay said. At the same time, in a statement issued at the conclusion Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) on Tuesday, November 22, both the Philippines’ and the United States’ military chiefs assured the public that the military ties between the two countries remain robust amid Duterte’s pronouncements of scrapping joint drills with foreign troops. “The successful completion of the MDB-SEB ensures continued, robust relations between the U.S. and Philippine militaries,” the statement said. The MDB-SEB was chaired by
Philippine Armed Forces chief Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya and Head of the U.S. Pacific Command Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr. “This highlights the enduring commitment of both countries to the U.S.-Philippine alliance,” it added. Harris previously said that no change has been finalized between the United States’ military cooperation with the Philippines. However, he noted that it’s possible to have “re-scoping” of some joint exercises in 2017. Earlier this month, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced that some bilateral military drills between the Philippines and U.S. were eyed to be stopped, including the Philippine Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) exercises, and the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) drills. The annual joint Balikatan exercise and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will continue, as approved by Duterte, Lorenzana added. n
Dayan admits delivering drug…
FVR on ‘sneaky’ Marcos burial: An ‘insult’…
ated that she did not receive any amount from Kerwin Espinosa. Senator Manny Pacquiao earlier disclosed that according to Kerwin, De Lima received about P8 million from the latter. “I have not received a single centavo from Kerwin Espinosa whether directly or indirectly in any instance in the same manner that I have not received a single centavo,” the senator said in a separate conference. Dayan went missing since the issue of De Lima’s alleged involvement in NBP drug trades erupted. Due to failure of appearance on previous NBP drug trade hearings despite the repeated summons from the House of Representatives, a warrant of arrest has been issued against Dayan. Dayan was arrested in San Juan, La Union on Tuesday, November 22 and was taken under the custody of La Union provinRonnie Dayan cial police office before being me, I immediately put it inside transferred on the same day at the car… I just follow her com- Camp Crame, in Quezon City. mand. She was still the secretary While in hiding, Dayan said he then),” Dayan said. had never been in contact with De Lima, on her part, reiteru PAGE A3
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
From the Front Page
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016
Jersey City honors Fil-Am Paralympics… PAGE A1 t
BUSY-BUST OPERATION. PNP chief Dir. Gen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa presents arrested drugs suspects to the media after members of the Southern Police District seized 22 kilos of shabu from them in a buy-bust operation in Makati City on Monday, Nov. 21. Inquirer.net photo by Julliane Love De Jesus
The future of DACA under the Trump…
PAGE A1 t
Monday, November 14. “And it is my strong belief that the majority of the American people would not want to see suddenly those kids have to start hiding again. And that’s something that I will encourage the president-elect to look at,” he added. Under DACA, undocumented youth – who meet several guidelines – are granted certain privileges previously unavailable to undocumented immigrants including a renewable two-year work permit and exemption from deportation. Nearly 742,000 undocumented youth – with 8,000 Filipinos – are currently enrolled in the program, with one-third living in California, according to data from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The specific benefits vary from state to state; California, for example, also grants DACA recipients access to driver’s licenses in addition to work authorization and deportation protection. To add to the uncertainty of DACA’s future, Tiffany Panlilio, a DACA legal advocate at legal and civil rights organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice Los Angeles (Advancing Justice LA), said that many DACA recipients are fearing work termination due to backlogging at USCIS. Because of the uncertainty of the program, Advancing Justice - LA has temporarily halted the processing of DACA applications and renewals. The organization has also encouraged DACA prospects to not go forth with applying and spending the $465 fee until there’s confirmation from Washington. “The attitude in the last few weeks has completely changed,” Panlilio told the Asian Journal, adding the rush of fearful clients inquiring about the next steps to take to protect their rights. Panlilio said that although the future of the program is uncertain, Advancing Justice - LA is offering free immigration screenings to see if recipients are eligi-
ble for other programs like family-based petitions, asylum and U-Visas, among others. “DACA has opened up the gates for so many opportunities here in California,” Panlilio said. “We have a lot of Filipino clients who have used to DACA to complete nursing school and have since become nurses. They’ve also become doctors and lawyers. So it’s complete change, and they’re not going to take this down without a fight to maintain their dreams in the United States.” Panlilio added: “I think one of the things that’s giving the community hope are organizations like ourselves which have agreed to have their back and support them. So right now, I think we’re all passed the mourning part, and I think we’re all ready to fight for their rights.” Apart from the benefits in the legislation, DACA has boosted the morale among undocumented immigrants, according to Anthony Ng, an immigrant rights and policy expert at Advancing Justice - LA. Ng – who is a DACA recipient himself – said that DACA provides far more opportunities for undocumented youth than ever before. “I think it’s valid to be fearful for your future, but the one thing I’m telling myself and other folks that I know who have DACA is to not lose hope. This fear shouldn’t let us stop fighting for our rights, and I think, in this moment, the community has our back,” Ng said, adding that the community includes, not just immigrants, but all Americans who believe in “people’s humanity and equal rights.” DACA also provides a significant economic benefit to the program, Ng said. Because of the work authorization feature, DACA has allowed for individuals and families to improve their household incomes and prepare them for greater employment opportunities. “I think we really need to look at our elected officials to champion our communities by holding
FINALLY RESTING. In this photo provided by the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs Headquarters Philippine Army (OACPA HPA), soldiers prepare to fold the flag-draped casket of the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos during his burial at the Heroes’ Cemetery in Taguig City, east of Manila on Friday, Nov. 18. OACPA HPA photo
FVR on ‘sneaky’ Marcos…
PAGE A2 t
He also suggested that the police and military personnel involved in Marcos’s burial be probed or booted out of the office because “they were disloyal to the service for failing to inform their immediate commanding officers.” “Bakit nagawa yung sneak
burial (How did the sneak burial happened) without you media knowing about it? There was advanced planning. Call it connivance led by the Marcos family together with some local police and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) official. I said local because the commanders did not know,” Ramos said. n
Dayan admits delivering… PAGE A2 t
De Lima despite efforts to get in touch with the senator. “Ni isang text wala ako nareceive sa kanya... actually pinatext ko sa anak ko na humingi ka ng financial (help) kasi halos di na ako makakain, hindi siya nirereplyan (I didn’t even receive a single text from her… actually I asked my child to send her a text message asking for financial help because I can hardly eat but there was no reply),” according
to Dayan. Dayan also refused to acknowledged the allegations that he was an illegal drug user. “Never ako nag-take ng drugs, never ako nagbenta ng drugs. Talagang ayaw ko yang drugs na ‘yan. ‘Yung pagkakadawit sa akin sa drugs, gawa-gawa lang nila ‘yon (I am neither a drug user or drug seller. I really dislike drugs. My name being linked up with drugs were all just made up),” he stressed. n
the line to Washington, D.C.,” Ng added. “I think it’s helpful to see mayors to affirm DACA in their cities and communities, whether it’s in a social or economic way. It really affirms that DACA impacts the community that we live in.” California lawmakers have already begun campaigning for immigrant rights, like Rep. Judy Chu who on Tuesday, November 15 urged the Obama administration to “protect” the undocu-
u PAGE A4
A
winning Gold in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races. “I’m a little bit more experienced now. To come back for my second one was a great feeling and now I’m looking forward to Tokyo in four years. Rio put on a great Paralympic games but I know Tokyo would go above and beyond,” Martin told the Asian Journal in an interview after the ceremonies. “I’m going to hit training a lot harder, if that is even possible.” London offered four events for his category and Rio offered three. He competed in all events and won gold in six and a silver on his seventh. Asked about what this honor from his city meant to him, he replied with a quick smile. “It means a lot. My home is here in Jersey City, it feels good to come back and it feels refreshing that there are a lot of Filipinos supporting me,” he said. A lot of younger Filipino-Americans attended the event and we asked Raymond what his message for them would be. “You can be anything you want to as long as you put your mind to it. You can be a doctor, a lawyer, a professional athlete, just do a lot of hard work. It is possible,” he said. Although when he was growing up, he never thought he’d be a multi-gold medalist at the Paralympics when he grew up. “No, I did not imagine myself as a gold medalist in the Paralympic games, or at this level of performance, for that matter,” he admitted. That changed in 2010 when he decided to try and go to his first games, the 2012 Paralympics in London. He was then 16 years old. “When I had a good performance there, I knew that I could do it,” he said. “Ray is a really special person, he serves as an inspiration to our current students and alumni at the Hudson County Schools of Technology, demonstrating that hard work and dedication truly do pay off,” said HCST Superintendent of Schools Frank J. Gargiulo. “We are elated that Jersey City is honoring an alumni of our schools, the recognition is well deserved.” The HCST Foundation originally awarded Martin a scholarship so he could attend the trials for the
2012 London Paralympics. “The records and accomplishments that Raymond has achieved is no surprise to the HCST family,” said HCST Foundation Executive Director Linda J. Quentzel. “We always believed in his abilities and determination, and knew we were making a wise investment in our student in helping him get to the 2012 Paralympics.” Martin is entering his senior year at the University of Illinois, concentrating in science and majoring in the Physician’s Assistant program. n
Raymond Martin
AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya
A NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
Dateline USa
Promoter says fans will still buy Mayweather-Pacquiao 2 by Dino
Maragay Philstar.com
NO LONGER KEYBOARD WARRIORS. Millennials were among the strongest voices against the surprise burial of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, leading rallyists at the EDSA People Power Monument on Friday, Nov. 18. ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike De Juan
Group hails growing civic participation of…
PAGE A1 t
where voter registration rates increased by 15 percent. “We estimate a 10 percent increase nationwide, thanks to the tremendous voter outreach conducted by our NaFFAA members across the country,” said FilAmVote National Coordinator Juanito Amor. “Voter turnout was also high among Asian Americans as a whole, as indicated by early CNN exit polling, but we don’t know just yet the share of votes casted nationally by Filipino Americans. I appreciate the tireless efforts of the many Filipino American groups to register voters, educate them about the issues and get them to the polls.” In acknowledging the outcome of the election, Flores stated that he is heartened by Presidentelect Donald Trump’s assurance that he will be president for all
Americans. “We wish him well as he takes on this challenging task,” Flores said. “Fear, hate and bigotry dominated the political rhetoric of the presidential campaign. We hope that he will indeed, ‘bind the wounds of division’ so we can all ‘come together as one united people’ regardless of partisan differences. “NaFFAA stands ready to work with the new administration under President-elect Donald Trump to ensure that the voices of the millions of Filipino-Americans across the United States are heard. We call on the new administration to fulfill their promises in empowering all Americans through education, creating safe communities, providing equal justice and representation under the law, creating uplifting policies for better job creation
The future of DACA under…
PAGE A3 t
mented youth from the proposed policies of the incoming presidential administration. “These children and families provided extensive amounts of sensitive information to their government, including fingerprints and relatives’ home addresses, with the understanding that it would not be used against them. We promised them security,” Chu said in a statement. “Now they
are facing a nightmare. When we asked immigrants to come out of the shadows, we never imagined the election of a candidate who ran on a policy of mass deportation.” A study released last week by the Center for American Progress estimated that removing the DACA program could potentially cost “wipe away at least” $433.4 billion from the U.S. economy. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
and helping businesses, and by giving recognition and respect to all Veterans.” An inclusive America “Hillary Clinton and her supporters are to be commended as well for their determined efforts and for the causes they championed,” Flores asserted. “Her long public service record is truly remarkable and we owe her an enormous debt of gratitude for her selfless dedication. We are also inspired by her call to build an America that is ‘hopeful, inclusive and big-hearted,’ one that is fair to people of all races and religions, for immigrants, for LgBT people and people with disabilities.” The plight of veterans, the men and women who served in the military, was also one of Clinton’s concerns when she was a U.S. senator and that of Trump when he was running for president. “Our Filipino World War II veterans have yet to be recognized for their service and sacrifice, an emotional issue that widely resonated with voters,” Flores noted. “Fairness and justice demand the passage of the Congressional gold Medal bill which is pending in Congress. We call on House Speaker Paul Ryan and Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy to act now and get this legislation passed this year.” This measure was approved by
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
REgARDLESS of what boxing fans think about another fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, they will still end up watching it. This is the belief of veteran boxing promoter Richard Schaefer, who was once at the helm of Oscar De La Hoya’s golden Boy Promotions and is known to have close ties with Mayweather. In a report by Phil D. Jay of World Boxing News, Schaefer said a rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao would still do well financially, though not necessarily better than their first clash in May 2015. “As much everyone is complaining about a potential Mayweather versus Pacquiao II, let’s face it. We would all buy it,” said Schaefer, who has set up his own
promotional company, Ringstar Promotions. While a commercial success, the first encounter between the two superstars was a critical failure, with Mayweather contented to just box his way to a unanimous decision victory over Pacquiao, who was later revealed to have fought on an injured shoulder. The fight definitely did not live up to the hype, but it smashed pay-per-view records with at least 4 million units sold and over $400 million in revenue. It also netted Mayweather and Pacquiao career-high paydays, something they won’t ever earn again fighting other opponents. Schaefer, for his part, insisted that a rematch is the best option for both fighters, financially wise. “Even if the fight (rematch) would do half of what the first
fight did, it still would be the second largest boxing event in history from a financial standpoint,” he said. “I tend to think that it would do much more than half of the first fight though and would still make both fighters a lot of money,” added Schaefer. Mayweather, who is retired from the sport, fueled speculations about returning to again face Pacquiao when he showed up at ringside during the Filipino icon’s fight against Jessie Vargas in Las Vegas. But the American was quick to temper expectations, saying he just took his daughter to see the fight, where Pacquiao crowned himself the WBO welterweight champion after dominating Vargas. Pacquiao, meanwhile, said he’s open to another shot at the undefeated Mayweather if the fans want it. n
Duterte becomes ‘fast friends’ with Putin by Dana
SioSon AJPress
PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte finally met his ‘hero’ and ‘idol’ Russian President Vladimir Putin during the sidelines of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Lima, Peru last week. Duterte, who also had bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping before meeting Putin, said he became ‘fast friends’ with the country leaders of Russia and China. “You know, we have become fast friends, President Putin and President Xi Jinping,” Duterte told reporters on Monday, November 21, narrating his experience at the summit. The Philippine president went on to say, “It was like we have known each other for a long time and even [by] the way we pat each other’s hand in a handshake.” During his long-awaited meeting with Putin, Duterte chided the United States and other Western nations for their supposed hypocrisy and bullying of smaller countries. “Of late, I see a lot of these western nations bullying small nations. And not only that, they are into so much hypocrisy… They seem to start a war but are u PAGE A5 afraid to go to war. That is what’s
The first meeting between President Duterte and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Lima, Peru turned out “good” as both sides agreed to strengthen bilateral ties. Robinson Niñal Jr./Presidential Photo
wrong with America and the others,” Duterte told Putin. Asked about the Russian leader’s response regarding Duterte’s anti-Western remarks, Philippine National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said Putin replied, “Our assessments coincide in many respects.” Putin also expressed his appreciation for the chance to speak with Duterte and talk about developing the bilateral relationship between Philippines and Russia.
“Well, you have been able to do a lot in a short period of time in terms of developing all round partnership between our countries and with respect to promoting greater trust and confidence between us,” Putin said. Meanwhile, Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez said Russia committed to boosting its imports from the Philippines to about $2.5 billion from its current $46-million worth of purchases.
u PAGE A5
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Dateline USa
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016
A
President Rodrigo Duterte, together with 20 leaders from Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member countries participate in the general dialogue at the APEC Leaders’ Summit in Lima, Peru on Friday, November 19. Malacañang photo by Simeon Celi
MEDAL OF FREEDOM AWARDEE. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama greet Bruce Springsteen in the Blue Room of the White House prior to the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony, on Tuesday, Nov. 22. Springsteen and 20 other honorees received the medal from the President during the ceremony. White House photo by Pete Souza
Group hails growing civic participation of… PAGE A1 t
the Senate in July and enlisted 310 cosponsors in the House. NaFFAA members across the country engaged their senators and U.S. representatives, through emails, personal visits and tweets in securing their support. Empowerment aspirations “To the Filipino Americans who ran for elective office or reelection to their current positions, our community owes you its deepest appreciation for your dedication to public service,” Flores added. “We congratulate all the candidates who succeeded, and we commend those who tried but fell short. Your efforts to represent us and give voice to our issues are inspiring examples of leadership. They are integral to our empowerment.” The following are the candidates who ran for various offices across the country: Rob Bonta, the first Filipino to serve in the California legislature, was reelected to a second term as the assemblymember for district 18 in Alameda County. In Hercules, Calif. Andrew Gabriel, a 23-year-old law student, won a seat at the Rodeo-Hercules Fire Board, while newcomer Roland Esquivias won and placed second in the three open seats on the Hercules city council. In Vallejo, Calif., Bob Sampayan won as Mayor. A retired police officer, he has served in the city council since 2011. Hermie Sunga and Rozzana Verder Aliga were elected city councilmembers while Ruscal Cayangyang won a seat on the school board. Mae C. Torlakson put up a good fight but lost the Dist. 14 assembly contest for the Contra Costa and Vallejo area. In Daly City, Juslyn Manalo, a former community service worker who fought for the rights of Fil-Am veterans, became the first Filipina to win a council seat in San Mateo County’s largest city. Former Daly City Mayor Mike Guingona lost his bid, however, for northern San Mateo supervisor. In their bid for elective posts, success eluded Marjan Philhour, a Filipina-Iranian candidate for San Francisco Dist. 1 supervisor; Magdalena de Guzman, for San Francisco District 11 supervisor; former Hercules mayor Ed Manuel, for Concord city council; Council member Jim Navarro, for Union City mayor; Tony Daysog, for Alameda City Council, Evelyn Centeno, for the Martinez Unified School district, and incumbent Zachary Mallet, who lost his reelection to the Bart board district 7. In Bergenfied, New Jersey, businessman and community leader Salvador “Buddy” Deauna won a city council seat. A farmer’s son from Camarines Norte, Deauna is the eldest of 16 children. This is his first time to enter the political arena. Jonathan Wong didn’t quite make it to become mayor of Mahwah, New Jersey. Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes won re-election to the post he was elected to in 2012. Reyes is the first ethnic minority to become the Attorney General of Utah and hold statewide office in Utah. He sat on the Asian Pacific American (APA) Advisory Committee for the Trump campaign. Torlakson summed up best these electoral aspirations: “Together, we fought for our working families, for our children, and for our environment-- and, I am deeply proud of that fight. I may
have lost the race to represent Assembly District 14, but I have not lost my drive to fight for the people of Contra Costa and Solano Counties. I will continue to work to improve the lives of our community members, and I am grateful that you gave me this opportunity.” Moving forward Two prominent Filipino Americans who have served in state legislatures are encouraged by the showing at the polls and the number of candidates from the community who threw their hats in the ring. They urge the Filipino American community to continue to be energized by the electoral process. Republican Delegate Ron Villanueva of the 21st District of Virginia and a member of Trump’s APA advisory committee said, “we have a lot of work ahead to advance our communities and make America great again, like fixing a broken immigration system, sustaining jobs here in America, restoring our prominence in the international community and having government work for us instead of against us. America is great because of its people, so let’s all unite, work hard and move our country forward.” Villanueva was elected to the Virginia state assembly in 2009. In her ninth year as a delegate to the Maryland Assembly, Democrat Kris Valderrama calls on the community to welcome President-elect Trump’s vow to be “president for all Americans,” but to also be “vigilant in protecting our civil and religious rights. I am deeply concerned by some of the hateful and frightening things he said about Filipinos during his campaign, particularly his plan to ban Filipino immigration to the United States, along with those from most Arab countries, which he considers a threat to national security. Such an action would ignore the many contributions that our community has made over the last century.” Valderrama also thanked President Barack Obama for his leadership in the last eight years, which he assumed “with grace, humility and with a touch of humor,” and for enacting the Filipino WWII Veterans Parole Program, which allows the families of certain WWII veterans to come to the United States and be united with their loved ones during their last years. Voter outreach During the election season, NaFFAA encouraged the active participation of Fil-Am millennials in voter registration and outreach. NaFFAA’s Capital Region partnered with APIA Vote and deployed more than half a doz-
en students from area colleges to make phone calls, reaching 26,000 voters in the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia region. “It’s my second year phone banking,” said JC Videna, a graduate of George Mason University. “It’s a civic responsibility for me as a Filipino-American to encourage people to vote. We are already marginalized in terms of numbers, but we do not want to further marginalize ourselves by failing to turn out at the polls. Every great change in the world has started with leadership, and in this country, that leadership is voted on. I did my part, and I hope others did the same.” John Victoria, a former US Navy Academy student, added, “The most fulfilling part about the entire experience was being on the frontlines as a direct touchpoint to our community. I am confident that our phone calls and voicemails may have been tipping points for some members of our community who had been on the fence about voting, or who may have felt their vote and their voice did not matter.” For Victoria, the most important lesson was being able to connect with Filipino American voters, regardless of their party affiliation, so their voices can be heard. “Low voter turnout makes it easy for elected officials to discount what we have to say because why should they care about the issues we voice in our community if we won’t affect election results?” Challenges ahead NaFFAA’s mission of community empowerment was put to the test in the last few months, and it will be tested again in November next year when voters elect their governors in New Jersey and Virginia. There’s also the mid-term elections in 2018 when House and Senate candidates vie for electoral support. “Off-year elections are a great way to maintain [the] momentum of voter turnout from the presidential election,” Flores said. “It would remind elected officials that we will remain engaged in shaping our government at all levels and at all times, and that we will continue to hold them accountable for their campaign promises. Let us lead in safeguarding our civil rights, protecting vulnerable communities from hate crimes and unfair treatment, encouraging diversity, inclusion, partnership and collaboration to help rebuild America and its future.” “Our resilience as a community, as borne out in our history of struggle and resistance, will see us through as we face tomorrow’s challenges.” n
APEC economic leaders vow to shun protectionist policies by Alexis
RomeRo Philstar.com
LIMA, Peru — Leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies have vowed to shun and roll back protectionist policies in a joint declaration that also reaffirmed their commitment to address corruption, terrorism and climate change. In a joint statement, the APEC leaders said protectionist policies, which emerged in the face of doubts on the merits of free trade, stunts the growth of the international economy. “We will refrain from competitive devaluation, resist all forms of protectionism and not target our exchange rates for competitive purposes,” they said. “We reaffirm our commitment to keep our markets open and to fight against all forms of protectionism.” The APEC leaders also pledged “to roll back protectionist and trade-distorting measures, which weaken trade and slow down the progress and recovery of the international economy.” Debates about the impact of globalization and open trade resurfaced following the exit of the United Kingdom (UK) from the European Union (EU) or “Brexit” and the election of Donald Trump, who backs protectionist policies, as the next president of the United States (US). Last June, UK voted to bolt out of the EU in a development that would allow London to sign its own trade agreements. Trump, meanwhile, said he would not participate in the Trans-Pacific Partnership, impose tariffs on countries like
Mexico and China and renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement, which he described as a “disaster.” The challenges confronting the world economy, which prompted some sectors to question the need for free trade, were mentioned in the joint statement. The APEC leaders said there has been “a slow and uneven recovery from the economic and financial crisis of 2008, resulting in lower global economic growth, volatile financial conditions, lower commodity prices, rising inequalities, employment challenges, and significantly slower expansion of international trade in recent years.” To address these issues, the APEC leaders promised to use monetary, fiscal and structural tools both individually and collectively to strengthen global demand and address supply constraints. The APEC leaders also committed to support and to enhance the capacities of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which they said constitute an essential component to achieve quality growth and prosperity. They also cited the need for infrastructure, people-to-people connectivity and information and communications technology to achieve quality growth and human development. The APEC leaders likewise urged all economies to implement critical anti-corruption actions especially measures against bribery of public officials. They said all relevant stakeholders, including APEC anti-corruption authorities and law enforcement agencies,
should be able to participate effectively in such measures. In the same declaration, leaders of the 21-member economic bloc condemned terrorism and encouraged other economies to take actions and to share best practices in addressing its threat. Climate change was also part of the agenda of the APEC meet, with leaders pledging to step up measures to mitigate its effects. APEC meet, with leaders pledging to step up measures to mitigate its effects. “Climate change is one of the major challenges for food production and food security. We commit to enhance our cooperation on implementing policies to address the relationship between food security and climate change in ways that respect varying conditions in each economy,” the leaders said. “We also commit to intensify our efforts to mitigate impacts of drought, flood and climate-related disasters on food production and food security.” Leaders of APEC economies welcomed the recent entry into force of the Paris agreement, which aims to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. They also committed to the deal’s “transparent and effective implementation in order to transition towards a low carbon, climate resilient economy.” The meeting of APEC leaders was held here from October 19 to 20. The priorities of this year’s summit were regional economic integration and quality growth, enhancing the regional food market, modernization of MSMEs and developing human capital. n
Atty. Rio Guerrero
“BEST LAWYERS NATIONAL AWARD” NAPABA
Atty. Tsui Yee
“CONTRIBUTIONS TO EXCELLENCE AWARD” FANHS
“PUBLIC SERVICE AND POLITICS AWARD” TOFANY
Trust Our Award-Winning Attorneys to Win Your Immigration Case — We Are New York’s Premier Immigration Law Firm Helping Our Kababayans.
Ang Pangarap Niyo Ay Pangarap Namin. Youth volunteers spurred NaFFAA’s FilAmVote program in Denver, Colorado. Photos courtesy of NaFFAA Communications
Duterte becomes ‘fast friends’ with…
PAGE A4 t
According to Lopez, the imports would possibly be more on agricultural products like fruits. “We can only look up, I mean, there is nowhere to go but up because it’s really a relationship that offers a lot of opportunities because there was almost nothing before when it comes to trade and investment with Russia,” Lopez said. The trade secretary also said that Russia offered their cooperation in areas such as energy,
infrastructure, industrial engineering, agriculture, tourism, education, law enforcement, and counterterrorism. Chinese President Xi also praised Duterte’s visit to China last month, which resulted in a significant improvement in the relationship between the two countries. Duterte, on his part, extended Xi an invitation to visit the Philippines, thanking Beijing for its “warm hospitality and excellent arrangements” when he previ-
ously visited China last month. “And as I have given you my word, we will cooperate with you. And I said, with my thrust of an independent foreign policy, we will find ourselves mutually agreeing on so many things and align our foreign policy towards the development of Asia, strengthening of ties among countries in the region, with China leading the way in the economic development,” Duterte told Xi during their bilateral meeting at the APEC sidelines. n
The Woolworth Building 233 Broadway, Suite 2040, New York, NY 10279 646.545.5000 | win@guerreroyee.com www.guerreroyee.com www.facebook.com/guerreroyee
Watch us on
A NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
OpiniOn
Features
Unrest
WHEN news broke out on Friday, November 18 that former Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos has interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery), it lit a fire. Public opposition is at high as more people mounting protests and unfurling banners saying that the former president “is no hero.” For some, the LNMB hold’s the nation’s esteem and reverence for those who have fought for freedom and democracy. The tyrant deposed by the People Power Revolution does not deserve such honor. For them, the burial was a slap in the face the country’s beloved democracy, and of the human rights victims during the martial law period. Today, various groups and organizations are marshaling support for rallies to denounce the notoriously callous decision by the Supreme Court allowing Marcos’s burial at LNMB. The decision was still subject to a motion for reconsideration. Voting 9-5 last November 8, the high court put an end to the issue, dismissing the petition filed by human rights groups, and victims during the martial law from 1972 to 1981. Marcos died in exile in Hawaii in 1989, three years after the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution toppled his twodecade rule. Albay Representative Edcel Lagman has pled the high court to order the exhumation of the remains of Marcos, saying that his burial was
“premature, precipitate and irregular” on the basis that the decision allowing the burial “has not attained finality and was not executory.” “The exhumation is imperative in order not to render moot and academic the petitioners’ forthcoming and seasonable motion/s for reconsideration, the resolution of which had been preempted by the precipitate burial in the wake of nationwide protests and cogent commentaries against the subject Decision of the [SC],” Lagman’s motion read. Former Senator Bongbong Marcos has called for unity amidst the growing clamor to exhume his father remains. “This was in keeping with his idea that he was but a soldier doing his duty, a citizen serving his country. We have waited 27 years to fulfill that wish that he left us with. But we are here today and we are able to grant him that wish,” the former senator said. Pres. Rodrigo Duterte stood by his decision to allow the internment of the former president at LNMB. “I have only two answers: He (Marcos) was a president, he was a soldier. His name appears on
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
the record, it was recognized,” Duterte said. And for those refuse to move on from this, the president has this to say: “You just have to live with your grief and that grief is hate.” Because there have been an alleged high number of atrocities done under Marcos’s regime,
this issue will remain hounded by higher public opposition. In this charged atmosphere, the government should find a solution to address this contentious issue and provide a ground for peaceful resolution of political conflicts. (AJPress)
A big majority of Filipinos in America don’t agree that Marcos’s burial at LNMB will heal the nation ultimate sacriTHE remains of the fice in offering deposed dictator Fer- The Fil-Am their lives for the dinand Marcos was country. schemingly buried in Perspective Marcos, on the the Libingan ng mga other hand, had Bayani (LNMB) last been deposed Friday, despite a movia the People tion for reconsideration Gel SantoS-ReloS Power Revolupending in the Supreme tion in 1986, as Court. The highest court of the land de- the Filipinos’ way of putting an end to cided in favor of President Rodrigo all the corruption and human rights Duterte’s decision to allow the burial violations he and his administration of Marcos in the National Heroes’ committed while in power. Burying Cemetery, contending that Marcos Marcos in the Libingan, they conwas a former president, soldier, legis- tend, was a desperate deplorable atlator who, by law, deserved to be laid tempt to rewrite history. Anti-Marcos protesters even asked to rest in the Libingan. Duterte said people should accept this, forgive, so the Supreme Court to allow the rethe country can unite and move for- mains of the late dictator to be exhumed; some warned that they would ward and unite. Once the news about the burial do so on their own nevertheless in spread, Filipinos protested in differ- the name of justice for those who had ent parts of the world, denouncing been victims of the Marcos dictatorthe burial. They said this is an insult ship. Filipinos in America, even among to the real heroes who have paid the
some who voted for Duterte, had been vocal about Marcos’s burial in the Libingan. The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” asked its viewers in an online poll: Do you agree that Marcos’es hero’s burial will start to heal the division among Filipinos? Only 24 percent said YES. They said this will finally bring this issue to rest. An overwhelming majority — 76 percent — said NO. They contended that wounds have been cut too deep when it comes to the Marcoses. They said the former dictator’s hero’s burial is an issue that will be argued for generations to come. *** 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
Will a Heroes’ Cemetery make a hero of Marcos? THOSE who are outraged by the Supreme Court decision to allow the burial of the late President Ferdinand Marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bayani may take heart in this old folk proverb: “Ang matsing kahit bihisan, matsing pa rin!” (A monkey, even if dressed up, is still a monkey). Internment in a cemetery for heroes does not a hero make. Emilio Aguinaldo is buried on the grounds of his historic mansion in Kawit, Cavite. Manuel Quezon’s remains lie in the Quezon Memorial in Quezon City. And Jose Rizal’s final resting place is beneath the Rizal monument at the Luneta. These are all hallowed grounds. The heroes who are interred there make them so. Nobody is sure where the remains of Andres Bonifacio are. There are doubts that they are in the Bonifacio monument in Grace Park. But he is honored, nonetheless. Was it Marcos’s dying wish that he be buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani? Was it, perhaps, to ensure that his memory would be associated with heroism? Did he have doubts that this would be the case? Marcos had a penchant for appearances. He made sure he would be hailed as the most bemedalled soldier in World War II, never mind that that some – or many – of the medals were reportedly fake. It should, therefore, be no surprise that the Marcos clan would also like to make sure that he would be recognized as a hero – at least, by association with the Libingan ng mga Bayani. In contrast, Rizal had no such megalomaniacal illusions. A December 2013 article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer by Dr. Pablo S. Trillana III reveals that, before Rizal’s execution, he left a note (originally in Spanish) that stated: “Dear parents, brother, sisters: Give thanks to God who has kept me tranquil, before my death…. Bury me in the earth, put a stone on top, and a cross. My name, the date of my birth, and that of my death. Nothing more. If later you wish to surround my grave with a fence, you can do it. No anniversary celebrations! I prefer Paang Bundok.” Paang Bundok would later come to be known as the Manila North Cemetery where, incidentally,
Presidents Ramon Magsaysay, Sergio Osmeña and Manuel Street Roxas are buried. But Rizal’s wish would not be followed. Talk After his execution, his captors buried him secretly, without a coffin, in an unmarked grave in an obscure cemetery in Paco, GReG B. MacaBenta which is now Paco Park. It took the determined efforts of Rizal’s sisters for the grave to be found. Fearing desecration by Rizal’s enemies, the sisters had a marker placed with Rizal’s name engraved in reverse: RPJ. It was not until after the battle of Manila Bay, where the US ostensibly vanquished the Spanish armada, that Rizal’s family managed to have his remains exhumed, placed in an urn, and kept in a sister’s house in Binondo, there to stay for 14 years. In 1912, Rizal’s remains were finally placed at the Rizal Monument, where honor guards are posted 24 hours a day. Who knows? President Rodrigo Duterte may want to do the same to Marcos’s tomb at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. I hope he realizes, though, that honor guards do not a hero make. Having said that, however, those who consider Marcos the antithesis of a hero should face two harsh realities: Firstly, the Marcos family and thousands—maybe millions—of Ilocanos are firm in their belief that he was a hero. Secondly, the Marcoses have been more zealous in extolling that “heroism” than those who consider him a villain, a murderer and a thief. The fact alone that Senator Bongbong Marcos nearly won the vice presidency in the last elections should tell us that the story of Marcos’s villainy has been lost among the post-martial law generation. Who is to blame for that? The Marcoses who have unflinchingly, unwaveringly and unceasingly honored his memory? Or the civil society stalwarts, the martial law victims and the media who have presumed that their occasional cries of “Never again!” would remain
meaningful and relevant to each new generation of Filipinos? The Nazis may have immortalized the maxim that “a lie repeated often enough will be taken for the truth.” But those who went through two decades of Marcos misrule, but have begun to take for granted the significance of EDSA One epitomize the opposite dictum, “The truth, if not told often enough, will be taken for a lie.” This is one reason, among several, why many of those who marched in the People Power Revolt have since been defined by detractors as “belonging to the yellow horde” – a revision of the oncenoble symbolism of that color. I have read the official statement of De la Salle Philippines calling the Supreme Court decision on the burial of Marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bayani “an ominous development” that “reflects the weakness of our democracy to exact accountability from leaders who abused and are abusing power.” The statement continues: “We, therefore, call on all our Lasallian teachers and partners to strengthen all their educational and community engagement efforts and programs towards a deepening of our people’s appreciation for democracy and human rights. Let us join with likeminded groups to create more robust advocacy on these issues,” Is this the first time that De la Salle has resolved to make this move or has it always been the case in the aftermath of EDSA One? I mean no disrespect for De la Salle, where I once taught Advertising Management and of which my eldest son is an alumnus, but my impression is that our people and well-meaning institutions are reactive, protesting perceived acts of injustice only when they are about to be perpetrated and going back to business as usual when the threat subsides. I am, frankly, puzzled why, it was only after the February 2016 commemoration of the People Power Revolution – the 30th year, no less – that the Philippine government - led by President Be-
nigno S, Aquino III, no less—began to look for a “permanent venue” for a People Power museum, to ensure that the horrors of martial law would not be forgotten by the forthcoming generations. The “experiential museum” installed at Camp Aguinaldo was described in one news report as a “pop-up” affair—in other words, temporary. Shouldn’t Presidents Cory Aquino and Fidel V. Ramos have thought about it, having been principal players in that historic event? Ramos did a much better job creating awareness of the first centennial of the declaration of Philippine independence in Kawit, Cavite, although even that ended up with only the Aguinaldo mansion as a permanent memorial to that historic event. Shouldn’t the son of Cory and Ninoy Aquino, as president of the Philippines, not have taken the “Imeldific” steps to memorialize that instance in Philippine history when the world regarded our country with awe and admiration? I use the term “Imeldific” because former First Lady. Imelda Romualdez Marcos is the only one I can think of who had the creativity and the zeal to build imposing structures, like the Philippine International Convention Center, the Folk Arts Theater and the Cultural Center of the Philippines to project her vision of a culturally rich and resurgent Philippines—never mind that the substance was like the façade of a Hollywood set. Now, here we are again, making loud noises over an injustice perpetrated by none other than the Supreme Court. But making loud noises is all that can be done for the next six years under Duterte, whose grand idea it was to have Marcos buried as a hero. But six years are not a long time. Enough time to plan on perpetuating the memory of martial law and Marcos rule with a structure that will last for generations – much like the Holocaust memorials of Israel. Enough time to be proactive. Not reactive. And this time, let it not be just Ferdinand Marcos depicted as the villain in that permanent memorial. The nine Supreme Court justices who handed down the decision deserve a place in that Hall of Shame. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board
Main Office: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 • (213) 481-0854 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com Northern California: 1001 Bayhill Drive, Suite 200 San Bruno, CA 94066 Tel.: (650) 616-4150 • Fax: (650) 616-4152
Manila Office: 2nd Floor Units D&E, Fort Palm Springs 30th Street, Cor. 1st Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Tel.: (632) 856-4921 • Fax: (632) 856-1661 New York and New Jersey: 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 Tel.: (212) 655-5426 • Fax (818) 502-0858 449 Hoboken Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306 Tel.: (212) 655-5426. • Fax (818) 502-0858
Las Vegas Sales Office: 3700 W. Desert Inn Road Las Vegas, NV 89102 Tel.: (702) 792-6678 • Fax: (702) 792-6879
CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President
ELIZABETH HILARIO SISON Chief Financial Officer MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor and Editor-in-Chief New York/New Jersey Asian Journal
Asian Journal Publications, Inc. (“AJPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publication by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AJPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AJPI to publish a Client’s Material. AJPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases. Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation. Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an a greement to continue publication. Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material. AJPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publication of a Client’s Material, AJPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the correct advertisement. Under no circumstances shall Asian Publications, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind.
ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern California Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern California, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively. Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome. Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions. Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please call the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or the Las Vegas Sales Office at (702) 792-6678 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com
(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016
Dateline PhiliPPines
A
UN alarmed over proposed Philippine law to lower criminal age to 9 years old by Dana
SioSon AJPress
THE United Nations (UN) expressed its concern over bills that propose lowering the age of criminal liability in the Philippines from 15 to 9 years old. President Rodrigo Duterte, who backs the proposal on lowering the age of criminal liability, originally wanted it to go down to 12 years old. Several senators, however, proposed lowering it to 9 years old. “Jail is no place for a child. It is alarming for children to be institutionalised (sent to a penal institution),” the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said in a position paper sent to Agence France-Presse on Monday, November 21. “It will be retrogression on the part of the Philippine government.”
According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), a minimum age of criminal responsibility below the age of 12 years is considered by the committee ‘internationally unacceptable.’ “If children who have been exploited by criminal syndicates are penalized instead of the adults who had abused them, we fail to uphold the rights and wellbeing of children. If we fail to understand the underlying reasons why they commit crimes, we fail children,” UNICEF previously said in a statement. The organization explained that imprisoning children “further stigmatizes them as criminals and creates an environment that triggers repeat offense, often extending to adulthood. “Children, especially the most marginalized and at risk, must
be treated with a sense of dignity and self-worth,” UNICEF added. Among the bills that sought to revert the criminal liability back to 9 years old include the “Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility Act” filed by House Speaker Bebot Alvarez and Representative Fredenil Castro. Although Alvarez and Castro acknowledged that the intent of Pangilinan’s bill to protect the youth was “laudable,” they argued that R.A. 9344 or the Juvenile Delinquency Act of 2006 “pampers” the young offenders. “Its effects have had the opposite effects: The pampering of youthful offenders knowing they can get away with it. Worse, adult criminals individually, or in organized cabals knowingly and purposely make use of youth below 15 years of age to commit crimes,” Alvarez and Castro’s bill read. n
Bam Aquino, Pangilinan call for decency amid Marcos burial debate by tarra
QuiSmunDo Inquirer.net
INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT BUDGET. Senator Richard “Dick” Gordon shares a light moment with officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) led by PNP Director General Ronald dela Rosa during the Senate’s deliberation of the 2017 National Budget Friday, November 18. Senate photo by Albert Calvelo
Media groups, individuals call for justice on 7th year since Ampatuan Massacre by KriStian Javier Philstar.com
MANILA — Media groups and individuals called for the justice to mark the seventh year since the Ampatuan Massacre. On Nov. 23, 2009, 58 people, including 32 media workers, were killed in an ambush at Ampatuan in Maguinadanao. They were in a convoy headed for Sharif Aguak town to file the candidacy papers of then Buluan vice mayor Ismael Mangudadatu, who was running for governor against Andal Ampatuan Jr. for provincial governor, when stopped by men believed to be in the employ of the Ampatuan clan. The Committee to Protect Journalists considers the massacre the single deadliest event for journalists in history. In a released statement, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said the victims have yet to get justice. “Justice remains elusive for the Ampatuan 58 as on the day gunmen commanded by a madman who would brook no challenge to the almost absolute rule he and his kin enjoyed over their poverty-stricken province mowed them down in a hail of fire and steel,” the group said. The group scored the government for the slow progress of the case, saying the state seems to have abandoned the victims “particularly those of our colleagues who were their families’ breadwinners, to lives of misery and uncertainty, reduced to wondering where to get their sustenance from day to day.” It said the seeming inaction has led to a sense of impunity “that has emboldened those who seek to silence those brash enough to seek to unveil their abuses.” The group added: “Today, even as we commemorate the seventh anniversary of the Ampatuan massacre, we see a re-
Media groups, students and individuals continue to seek justice for the murder of 58 individuals, including 32 journalists, in the Ampatuan Massacre on its 7th anniversary.
surgence of threats and assaults on the independent Philippine press fueled by the open contempt and hostility of a leader who would brook absolutely no criticism of his person or his policies, not even if these have opened the floodgates to an orgy of bloodletting unprecedented in its savagery and its utter disregard for the rule of law and human rights.” Meanwhile, the College Editors Guild of the Philippines said that it “is one with the families of the victims of Ampatuan massacre and other media-related killings in their fight for justice.” “On one hand, the Ampatuan clan patriarch and alleged mastermind, Andal Ampatuan Sr., already died of liver cancer, while Sajid Islam Ampatuan, one of the accused, was granted freedom after posting P11.6-million bail. Case trial, on the other hand, has been painstakingly slow,” the group said. Fr. Rey Carvyn Ondap of the Passionist Fathers, in his homily at the massacre site in Ampatuan town last Sunday to commemorate the anniversary of the massacre, said that “justice delayed is justice denied.” “The burden is no longer on
the Ampatuans, it should be the burden of the court as to how the ruling can be hastened,” Ondap said in his native language, according to a MindaNews report. Sen. Leila De Lima, in a statement released early Wednesday, said that she continues to express her continuing solidarity with the families, friends and relatives of the victims. As secretary of Justice, finding justice for the victims was her responsibility and she said she assigned the best prosecution team to handle the case, she said. Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aquirre II also said in a statement that the DOJ joins the families and relatives of the victims in prayer to not only get the justice they deserve, but that they may find the strength to “pick up the shattered pieces of their lives.” He said “the Department of Justice reiterates its commitment in the quest for the elusive justice of the families of the victims.” Aguirre added that the DOJ will do all that it can to resolve the case faster. Several media groups and students also flocked at Mendiola Manila earlier today to call for justice for the victims of Ampatuan. n
UN special rapporteur to visit PH in 2017 by Patricia LourDeS Philstar.com
viray
MANILA — The United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions has expressed her commitment to visit the Philippines in the first quarter of 2017. Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard has sent a reply to the Government of the Philippines welcoming the invitation of President Rodrigo Duterte, according to her briefing note. “She reminded the Government of her previous communications and reiterated her interest in a joint visit with the Special Rapporteur on the right to health, along with the organisation of a joint expert consultation on drug control strategies and policies,” the briefing read. The special rapporteur on extrajudicial killings undertakes country visits to examine situations of extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions worldwide. Callamard is also mandated to monitor the implementation of international standards on the
Agnes Callamard
right to life in all countries and engages with government and other stakeholders. The special rapporteur makes two country visits per year and reports to the UN Human Rights Council her findings and recommendations. Such country visits often take place for one to two weeks. “The general purpose of the visits of the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions is to examine the level of protection of the right to life in law and in practice in the concerned country,” Callamard said.
The inquiries into the cases of extrajudicial killings of the special rapporteur are of a fact-finding nature only. “They are not of a criminal, judicial or quasi-judicial nature,” the briefing read. Under her mandate, Callamard is expeced to meet with government and other public officials at the national and local level. She is also set to hold meetings with various non-governmental organizations, representatives of international or regional organizations, the diplomatic community, victims, witnesses, detainees, and the media. Upon inviting the special rapporteur, the Philippine government commits to ensuring free, confidential and unsupervised interviews with victims, families of victims, legal representatives, detainees, and civil society representatives as a whole. The special rapporteur will hold a debriefing with the government to discuss her preliminary findings at the end of her investigation in the country. A report on the country visit will be submitted to the UN Human Rights Council. n
MANILA — Senators Francis Pangilinan and Bam Aquino on Tuesday, Nov. 22 appealed for decency as debates over the stealthy burial of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani last Friday, Nov. 18 continued to light up social media. In separate statements, the two senators, both staunchly against the unexpected interment, hit social media users who have resorted to vulgar, misogynistic and abusive language in their comments on photos of female protesters against Marcos’ burial. Several commenters have been using sexually explicit language to objectify the women, whose photographs from the Nov. 18 protests were posted on Facebook. “The attacks against them are too much. Those attacks do not reflect the behavior of the average Filipino man. We are respectful. We are loving. Sometimes we Filipino men are called mama’s boy because our respect for women are rooted in our love for our moms,” Pangilinan said in a statement. Pangilinan, fiercely indignant to the administration’s grant of a presidential burial for Marcos despite his bloody legacy during martial law, had himself been called names online as he protested the secrecy-shrouded interment. He noted that “name-calling, slut-shaming, and other gender-based remarks have been the chosen form of attack by those who cannot defend their
Senator Bam Aquino
Senator Francis Pangilinan
positions.” Pangilinan cited how even Vice President Leni Robredo and his colleagues in the Senate, Senators Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima, have been subjected to such vile attacks. “That is not right. If we don’t agree with others’ statements, let’s give our own arguments. Let’s not cuss each other. It is degrading,” he said. Aquino, meanwhile, said that people should still respect each other even while they had divergent positions. “While we have different views on issues, we should not lose respect for each other and decency in social media,” Aquino said in a statement. “How we are outside, with our friends and family, should also be how we behave in social media,” he said. Given open access to the internet even by minors, social media “must be free from discrimination, hate speech and verbal abuse.” n
A NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
november 25-december 1, 2016
people events arts culture entertainment
†Ü¯†ÅºÊåÙņ¿Ö咿¯“†â¯ÊÅÜ
dž†Ü¯†ÅºÊåÙņ¿“ÊÄ
dž†Ü¯†ÅºÊåÙņ¿
XXX BTJBOKPVSOBM DPN -PT "OHFMFT LJ -BT 7FHBT LJ 0SBOHF $PVOUZ *OMBOE &NQJSF LJ /PSUIFSO $BMJGPSOJB LJ /FX :PSL /FX +FSTFZ
AdvAncement for rurAl Kids founder AyeshA verA yu (third from left) with consul GenerAl tess dizon-de veGA (third from riGht) And the Artists whose worKs were exhibited At the event, (from left) mAiA PAlileo, AlAn cAlPe, dAvid mcQueen And sArA Jimenez.
2
An Asian Journal Magazine
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N OV E M B E R 25, 20 1 6
‘AFTER SUPER TYPHOON HAIYAN’
How art and music helped heal a community in Capiz by MoMar
G. Visaya/AJPress
When Filipino-American sculptor and installation artist David McQueen met with Ayesha Vera-Yu, co-founder of Advancement for Rural Kids (ARK) over coffee a few years ago to see how his work would fit the organization, he did not realize he would be in it for the long haul. Two weeks after that meeting, McQueen was on his way to the Philippines – to Capiz in particular – to see and experience what ARK has been doing in the communities it serves. ARK partners with rural communities to feed, keep kids in school, and create new income. The organization only invests in communities that invests in themselves (and don’t want handouts), and only in solutions that locals champion, and can afford to sustain on their own. “It turned out to be an amazing trip. I make work to not be alone, to build a community, to find these conversations and there’s so many conversations to have in those places where art doesn’t exist,” McQueen said. he explained that while he has taught students before but this was his first time to define and describe what art and sculpture meant for the young kids. he asked the kids – If you could build anything, what would you build? – and all of tem said they wanted a home, a house. McQueen found that beautiful, that the kids wanted to build a home for their parents.
They made a dream house for the kids and constructed it using bamboo slats. Only students were allowed inside and they were also allowed to graffiti the interior to write what their hopes and dreams are for themselves. “We had intended that the kids would be the dreamers – focus on them because they had the most potential – but we realized that we were leaving out all the parents,” he recalled. “We realized that dreaming should not be relegated to kids because when the parents and the teachers saw what they were doing, they wanted it for themselves. They started writing on pieces of paper and putting their own dreams on the cork boards.” When super typhoon haiyan clobbered the Philippines, some of ARK’s partner communities were severely affected. Some communities lost their homes and school classrooms. ARK partnered with Liz Casasola and David in 2015 to use art and music as a way to help their partner communities in the Philippines heal after haiyan. “We saw the power how art enabled the kids and their parents and communities reach and dream beyond what’s in their villages and it was just amazing,”Vera-Yu shared. Through the past couple of years, ARK has raised funds to rebuild classrooms. Last week, friends and supporters of ARK gathered at the Rogue Space in Chelsea for another fundraising event dubbed ‘BAhAY:
Ayesha Vera-Yu and the featured artists of BAHAYhome
Getting to know the artists of BAHAY:home Ayesha Vera-Yu, co-founder of Advancement for Rural Kids (ARK) David McQueen
home’, an art exhibit and cocktail benefit featuring awe-inspiring and leading Filipino American and Filipino Canadian artists in nYC led by McQueen and his colleagues Alan Calpe, Sara Jimenez and Maia Cruz Palileo. The artists are contributing a share of their art sale proceeds to complete the reconstruction and furnishing of three classrooms, which will be home for learning, growth and venture in ARK and Global Playground’s partner school in Mangoso, Capiz. “We wanted to feature all these amazing artists in one space. The art that they make is not only Sara Jimenez breath-taking but it gives us a sense of community. It reminds us of our immigration to the United States or other parts of the world, it helps us find our own identity and makes us long to go back home,” shared Vera-Yu. The three classrooms have been rebuilt from the ground up, utilizing help from the local government, the community and the parents and teachers themselves. All the furniture and design elements – from the doors, windows to dividers/art walls - will be built using wood and other natural materials sourced from local farmers, and by amazing carpenters like Alan Calpe, video and animation artist nong Lic who hails from a nearby village. The furniture is designed by nYC based elemental Interiors and McQueen.
Maia Cruz Palileo
Bubble Gang turns 21, honors comedy heroes by Jerry Donato “IT’S a wordplay on 21 gun salute, which is performed when we honor heroes,” replied Michael
V., “Bubble Gang” creative director and lead comedian, when asked about this year’s theme of the Kapuso gag show: “21 Gang Salute.” Debuted in 1995, “Bubble
Michael V., the show’s creative director and lead actor: ‘(Success) does not rely only on one person.’
Antonio Aquitania: ‘I’m excited to go to work. Alam kong masaya ang gagawin naming taping.’
Philstar.com
Gang” is local TV’s longestrunning sketch comedy. “We’re paying tribute to our heroes in comedy,” added Bitoy, the other name of Michael V.
Boy 2 Quizon: ‘It feels like we’re just playing instead of working.’
“We’re honoring the best 21 Filipino comedians in our book. We’re not saying na ito yung all-time na pinaka magagaling. The list speaks of ‘Bubble Gang’s’ choices of 21 best comedians in the Philippines.” Perhaps belonging to the top tier of the list are Dolphy, Rene Requiestas, Vic Sotto, Redford White and Joey de Leon. It’s also interesting to know how many comediennes will complete the list, if the word comedian also means comedienne. Questions: What signature works of the 21 best comedians will be recreated in the allotted segments for them? Will the show explain the contributions of the honorees? We will find out when the two-part TV special premieres on nov. 25 and culminates on Dec. 2. “We have made a shortlist,” said Michael V. “You will know the final list during the airing of the anniversary special.” Since Bubble Gang has never failed to tickle the viewer’s funny bones,
TheIR works showcase the Filipino and very American experience of exploration, immigration, keeping family ties, quest for identity and belonging, and our desire to look back and give back. David McQueen Sculptor/installation artist. he is a 2011 nYFA Fellow in sculpture and received an MFA in sculpture from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BA from Oberlin College. his work has been shown at Socrates Sculpture Park, Wayfarers, Plane Space Gallery, The Delaware Center for Contemporary Art, The Bronx Museum of Art, DUMBO Arts Center, and Wave hill. I have taught before but never in an in environment where we had to define what art, what sculpture is. There was an infectious component there. As soon as one wanted something, everyone followed suit. It was beautiful. Sara Jimenez Painter, sculptor and performance artist. She received an MFA from Parsons new School of Design and a BA from University of Toronto. her work has been shown at FiveMyles, Wayfarers, Phillips de Pury, The Brooklyn Museum, noguchi Museum, newark Liberty International Airport, and the BRIC Biennial in new York. Sara teaches at Parsons. A lot of my work draws influence from colonial text from late 1800s. I try to reimagine these images and artifacts. My work has also been influenced by talking with different family members about my heritage, the history of the Philippines. Alan Calpe A video and animation artist whose work intersects video with performance, animation and sculpture, emphasizing bodily labor as both material and subject. here, bodies suggest unusual private rituals that move us into the space of the imaginary. his work includes presentation at The Getty Museum, new Museum, The Kitchen, Danspace Project, Los Angeles Contemporary exhibitions, and LAXART. he received his MFA in Visual Arts from the University of California, San Diego. he is originally from Florida and currently lives in nYC. I always try to make my videos purposely vague. I don’t want people to feel that there’s proselytizing in it. Come up with your own conclusions. Maia Cruz Palileo A painter, printmaker and installation artist. She is a recipient of the Rema hort Mann Foundation emerging Artist Grant, Joan Mitchell Foundation MFA Award, and Astraea Visual Arts Fund Award. She received an MFA in sculpture from Brooklyn College, City University of new York, and BA in Studio Art at Mount holyoke College. Maia has participated in residencies at Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, Maine, Lower east Side Print Shop, new York, Millay Colony, new York and the Joan Mitchell Center, new Orleans. She has taught at the Joan Mitchell Foundation, Brooklyn College, and Rutgers University, newark. She is represented by Taymour Grahne Gallery. Inspiration for my work comes from my family. I was born in Chicago. A lot of my work has mysterious elements into it. I use my experience, memory and imagination and knowledge of what has been passed down to us. I’m lucky I’ve been able to pursue art.
members of media were curious to find out the show’s secrets in eliciting laughs and guffaws. The stars generously shared their thoughts. “We’re very serious with our comedy,” said Paolo Contis. “hindi lang kami basta nang-gagaya, seryoso kami sa mga ginagawa namin.” For Boy 2 Quizon, the answer was simple. “Lahat kami may sayad,” he said jokingly. “It feels like we’re just playing instead of working.” This work attitude, as the stars would agree, boils down to their love for comedy as expressed by Chariz Solomon. “We love what we’re doing.” Betong Sumaya, with his funny accent, added, “It’s the burning passion to bring comedy (to everyone.) It’s not just about money, although gusto din namin iyon.” This and the family atmosphere on the set keep the mainstays as well as the creative team enthusiastic about what
they do. It is the reason why they are always on their toes. “I’m excited to go to work every Monday,” said Antonio Aquitania. “Alam kong masaya ang gagawin naming taping.” The stars are one in their intention to share the happiness they experience inside the studio and wish to bring that to every Kapuso watching ‘Bubble Gang.’ “It’s fun to do and it’s fun to watch,” said Bert de Leon, who replaced direk Uro dela Cruz in helming the weekly gag show. “It’s a challenge because I have big shoes to fill… Ako yung pinakahuli sa mga pumasok dito. hindi naman siya rocket science kasi may formula na yan. We’re open. everyone can make suggestions. Lahat pwedeng mag-contribute. Walang monopoly sa creativity although the head is Bitoy. So what I do is try my best to present the comedy in a very tasteful (manner). I’ve done a lot of gag shows. With all our inputs Continued on Page 7
An Asian Journal
Magazine
3
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N Ov E m b E R 25, 20 1 6
Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
Thanksgiving is a Time for Giving Thanks
Thank you to the entire Filipino community. i truly Thanksgiving is when appreciate your warmth and people take a step back and support, and i thank you for reflect on all of the wonderful all of your letters and emails things and events to be grateful telling me how you enjoy my for, and to give thanks to those articles and television show, people who played such a key Citizen Pinoy. i am happy to role in helping us achieve them. be of service to you, and i will at this Thanksgiving, i would continue to support Filipino like to once again give thanks to events and causes. all of the people who have been Thank you to aBs-CBn, so kind and supportive of me TFC, and the entire crew of and my immigration law practice. Citizen Pinoy, who share my Thank you to all of my clients. vision of providing a publici realize that you are the reason service program to the Filipino i am able to remain in business. community concerning i also know how important immigration information. it your immigration matter is in makes me so proud and happy your life and in the life of your when people come up to me, family. i appreciate your trust saying that they watch Citizen and confidence in my office, in Pinoy every single week, and allowing us to handle such an have learned so much from the important matter. real life stories and questions
and answers presented. i thank all the crew of Citizen Pinoy for their hard work, dedication, and passion for this worthy public service. Thank you to all of our friends in the media, who through their prestigious publications, enabled us to reach those who need our services and inform the Filipino community about newsworthy immigration information. You serve as an avenue to help “BRing FaMiLiEs TOgEThER” and help “MakE ThE aMERiCan DREaM COME TRUE.” Thank you to my staff. Your tireless efforts and dedication to our clients are the main reasons we can continue to provide quality service to our many loyal clients. Thank you to my wife,
An EncorE EpisodE About A “spEciAl child” on citizEn pinoy! When Mommy conchita (center) immigrated to the us in 2007, she had to make a difficult decision of leaving her special needs daughter, nina (left) behind in the philippines. it was a difficult time, because mother and daughter had never been separated before. nina was left behind with her older sister ruth, who was later about to migrate to Australia in May 2016. With Mommy conchita and ruth gone, who will take care of nina? Find out how leading us immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to bring nina to the us through humanitarian parole, on a brand new episode of citizen pinoy on sunday, nov. 27 at 6:15pm pst on tFc.
An Asian Journal
Magazine
4
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N Ov E m b E R 25, 20 1 6
On the PEP Front
People, Events, Places BoBBy T. yalong THE soul of a great music never dies…but merely fades to oblivion, takes a brief respite after a top-chart supremacy, and resurfaces anew with a recharged dominant influence geared up to invade (once again) the airwaves only to relive the not-so-distantpast with that unchanged pulsating sentiment. After more than two decades, Archie D’s original hit song, “Mahal Na Mahal,” young balladeer and Big Division Grand Winner of Little Big Star Season I Sam Concepcion breathed life into the 1991 chart topper after also being revived by Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez in 2004. Just weeks ago, another one of his 1990 recorded upbeat pieces, “Kasayaw,” was reintroduced by an all-male dance group in a top-rating noontime show. If these were merely coincidental or just correlated events then maybe those occurrences are unambiguous indications that singer-composerrecord producer Archie D should give his quiescent singing career a timely comeback. But who is actually Archie D? What has he done and contributed to deserve a distinct spot in the local recording industry? The youngest among the three children of Arcadio and Lilly Dairocas, Archie (Archimedes in real life) first saw the light of day on the 3rd day of June in Pagadian City. It won’t be surprising if young Archie could play the piano like a schooled one since his mom was the only piano teacher in town who entertained Japanese and American officials stationed in Labo, Ozamis City. A self-taught musician with an ear and keen auditory perception for music, it was uncomplicated for Archie to become skilled at what his mom scrupulously taught her advanced students.
EMPLOYMENT
The startling resurgence of Archie D’s music Ironically, he detested what he had achieved for fear he would be relegated to accompanying his chorale group. It wasn’t until he was 10 when his mom persuaded him to join an amateur singing contest in Bohol. Behind his timidity was a driven dexterity to win and he did via Boy Mondragon’s “Rain.” That inevitable victory ushered in another feather to his cap when he played a classical piano piece during a Boy Scouts Fest the same year. If there’s but one song Archie loved to perform during his formative years that would be Peter Cetera’s (of Chicago) “Hard To Say I’m Sorry,” a David Foster 1982 hit. Inspired by the song’s keyboard-driven sound, variation in the track, a uniquely formulated composition, and verses that left a lot to the imagination, Archie’s earnest compulsion to write and compose was given an urgent push. Sadly, it took him long before he finished his maiden composition for lack of inspiration. He was already in Manila when he finally found the perfect lines and appropriate notes to end the song he aptly titled “Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang?” Aptly armed with concrete determination to succeed it earned the nod of Vicor Music Corporation and had it recorded (but re-titled: “Kaya Lang”) by Ramoncito Gutierrez for inclusion in the “Bagets” album. Expectedly Archie felt he had finally arrived that duly motivated him to write and compose again. While in Manila he was employed in LRT’s Finance Department for a year then moved to PAL (Philippine Airlines) as a Ticket Representative at the Domestic Airport. “Actually, I was enticed by the huge benefits that went with the job,” he recalled with
fondness. “Imagine, after a year of employment I enjoyed six free regional, two international, and unlimited domestic flights!” With his savings he was able to sustain his passion in writing and composing songs that started to build his name more so when his works were recorded by Zsa-Zsa Padilla, Timmy Cruz, Louie Heredia, and Randy Santiago. Not a few critics noticed Archie’s electrifying personality perfect for showbusiness whenever he guested on TV and road shows during promotions. From there he executed a step higher when he decided to sing and perform his own compositions. Noticeably, Archie D possesses that vocal attractiveness with sexual dimorphism. His intoxicating vocal power exudes a pitch range equipped with perfect glottal and pharyngeal techniques that captivate his listeners. He doesn’t just sing…he deliriously performs in a euphoric state of physical agility and intellectual acuity persuading his audience to be enthralled and voluntarily succumb to his music. In 1991, Vicor released his first album with 8 original tracks wherein three cuts reached the Top Charts: “Pakita Mo,” “Kasayaw,” and “Sadya Bang Ganyan.” His music was easy-to-the-ear with catchy up-beat tempo that easily earned for him the moniker “Rick Astley” of the Philippines. Success was almost on his palm but suddenly slipped away when he failed to be nominated to the 1991 Awit Awards due to Vicor’s inability to register as a PARI (Philippine Association of Record Industry) member that year. Although disheartened and jilted Archie’s obsession wasn’t affected at all but encouraged him to be driven even more. He
EMPLOYMENT
SCHOOL
Archie D in his recording studio
Singer-songwriter-Record Producer Archie D
The composer as a dapper-dresser
Performing live is his passion
transferred to Octo Arts, through Gina Tabuena Godinez’s support, where he waxed his second album, “Into The Groove,” with “Huwag” as its carrier single. “Huwag” missed to land on the top but another cut from the album, “Mahal Na Mahal,” unpredictably created a blast and became the prime MRS (Most Requested Song) on the airwaves. But fame wasn’t tailor-made for him. It was one elusive dream that was almost on hand but was he was US-bound. “It was an opportunity I didn’t want to miss… migrating to the US was my priority that time. And I never thought my singing career would pick up when I was all set to leave.” But in the US, music was
constantly on his mind and in his system. He would relentlessly squeeze in playing with bands, singing and performing in gigs in between odd job schedules. He still found time to enroll at the Berkeley College of Music in Boston and studied Music Production, Audio Engineering and synthesis to broaden his musical knowlegeability… that enabled him to review entertainment shows and local albums and ultimately admitted him to the Grammy’s. In 2001 he built a recording studio, Cool Music Productions, where on his own accord tutored, assisted, collaborated, and helped struggling artists in composing and recording. Truly, Archie couldn’t free
SERVICES
himself from the bondage of recording. In 2001 he released his first sold out album in the US, “Archimedes Principle,” that rightfully regained his (almost lost) self-confidence. A second album followed in 2009, “Built To Sound Good,” that finally carved his name and established his identity in the east coast. Archie D has productively created a name and eventually instituted a reputable status in the field where he accurately excels. “With the revival of “Mahal Na Mahal” I have to give credit to former NeoColors lead vocalist Ito Rapadas of Universal Records for bringing it back to the scene and choosing no less than heartthrob Sam Concepcion as its Continued on Page 6
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS WHAT is an allergy? An allergy is a condition where the body overreacts following “contact” with an allergen (dust, molds, pollen, flower, dander, fur, animal protein from hair, perfume, cosmetics, medications---applied to skin or swallowed---food or drink, etc.). Symptoms could be as trivial as sneezing or as serious as sudden inability to breathe, shock and death. What is the incidence of allergies? About 10 percent of people have some form of allergies or another. So, almost 10 million Filipinos suffer from this malady. Luckily, most of the allergies people have are mild. If repeated exposures to the same allergen, at the same high dose, are allowed to occur, the symptoms could become more severe. What triggers the symptoms? Allergic reaction is triggered, and symptoms develop, when the body’s immune system detects
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond
Allergies 101 the presence of an allergen. This automatic protective response is aimed at warding off any adverse effects of the “culprit substance” on the body by producing antibodies and mobilizing the “immune soldiers into the battlefield to fight the invading foreign” substance. This is a natural part of the defense mechanism of our body. What are the symptoms of allergies? From the mild symptoms to the life-threatening ones, they could be one or a combination of the following: sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, red, itchy watery eyes, skin rashes or hives, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia (fast heart beat), dyspnea (difficulty breathing), wheezing, hypotension (drop in blood pressure), cardiac arrest (stoppage of heart beat), and death. While the last 3 situations are not common, they are nonetheless very significant and still far too many, especially because these are preventable disasters. Have there been deaths from exposure to animal hair? Yes, and two such sad and tragic deaths happened to my godson and, in a separate incident, to a friend’s daughter (both in their
A grateful, humble heart “Gratitude is the heart’s memory.”
— French Proverb
Monette aDeva Maglaya ABOUT 400 years ago, the first Pilgrims who settled in the New World celebrated Thanksgiving Day after their first harvest in 1621. With prayerful thanks in front of the food they harvested from the soil and feasting with Native Americans as honored guests, this tradition, has been preserved through much of American history by presidential proclamations beginning with George Washington and lives on to this day. Washington proclaimed, “It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor.” This first batch of immigrants was particularly grateful to Squanto, the Native American and former British slave who, not only acted as interpreter but also taught them the ropes on how to live off and with nature, teaching them how to fish, plant corn and generally survive the harsh conditions of the new land. There is strong reason and evidence to believe that without Squanto’s help, this group may not have survived the rigors of living in a harsh environment. For many ordinary people living mundane lives, Thanksgiving Day has become, not only as a tradition we go through the motions year after
twenties), who died within an hour after exposure to horses in a barn. How about fatal allergy to MSG? A classmate of mine, a chest surgeon from California, was attending a meeting in Nice, France, a few years ago, when he and his wife decided to eat oriental food, after a week of French cuisine. Inspite of their instruction to the waiter to make sure the chef did not add MSG (Mono Sodium Glutamate, a flavor enhancer) to the food they ordered because he was allergic to it, somehow MSG was used anyway. After ingesting a mouthful, my friend became very short of breath, collapsed, and died a couple of hours later from anaphylactic shock. What is Chinese Food Syndrome? Monosodium Glutamate has been used for years as a food enhancer in many recipes in restaurant or at home. People who are sensitive to MSG (whose food has a lot of MSG) may experience mild and transient warmth and flushing in the face and the rest of the body, some with mild chest tightness that goes away in a few minutes. Since many Chinese Continued on Page 7
year, but something that gives crystal-clear meaning and purpose to our endeavors of facing increasingly challenging seasons year after year. Thanksgiving Day is widely observed by many in the US, as a day for family and friends to gather together in front of specially prepared food and with a prayerful attitude of thanksgiving to God, for the graces bestowed on each one. At the very least, for the bored and blasé, it is a most welcome 4-day break from the workaday world we live in. The squeeze on the byways is on specially now that gas prices are lower than usual. Expect the sky routes, roads and railways to be clogged with millions of travelers wanting to be with family on this special day. For many millions more, it is a special day to simply stay put within our homes, make a run for provisions at the corner supermarket, stuff a turkey or buy a spiraled ham and enjoy the blessings of hearth and home. Some big nationwide stores are bucking the previously held sacrosanct tradition of being close during Thanksgiving Day and opening their doors wide for business as usual. But one store published a message as some kind of rebuke to these megaretailers saying to the effect that they make enough during the rest of the year so they can be close on Thanksgiving Day to allow their workers to spend time with
their families. Touche. Today, many in the immigrant population accept and relish this tradition of giving thanks to God for blessing a country that has been heaped with so much abundance, its cornucopia still filled to the brim, despite the many challenges it has faced for a protracted period of time. The immigrant whose head is screwed on tight and whose heart is in the right place can appreciate a bit more the significance of giving thanks to God for a country he has adopted to be his own, no matter the struggle and the rigors he has had to go through and which in turn, has accepted him to be a part of. Thanksgiving is a time to forget our petty concerns, tune out of the noise, confusion and melee that try our souls, and take absolute joy in the moment of just being alive. And if you are one of the lucky ones, Thanksgiving Day is a time to simply take quiet, humble joy in being blessed with the gift of one thing more, without which, hell has your soul in a stranglehold. This free gift is nothing more than the gift of a grateful, humble heart. HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!!! *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
An Asian Journal
5
Magazine
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N Ov E m b E R 25, 20 1 6
Thanksgiving is a Time... From Page 3 Millie. People say that behind every successful man, there is a Filipina wife. After many years of marriage, I know it’s true. Words cannot express my gratitude for your help, support and dedication to our business. You are the “wind beneath my wings.” And most of all, thank you to the Almighty. Without His blessings, benevolence, and guidance, none of this would be possible. May He allow me
to continue to be able to assist people with their problems, and allow the prayers of all people to be answered and fulfilled. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of
Calendar of Events across
a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS D EC E M B E R 3
FASO’s Christmas Concert in Glendale, CA The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), the only Filipino symphony orchestra outside of the Philippines, as it presents “A Christmas Concert” on Saturday, December 3, 6:00 p.m. at the John Wayne Performing Arts Center in Glendale, California. FASO will play Christmas carols, accompanied by the voices of various choir groups. John Wayne Performing Arts Center is located at 1440 E. Broadway, Glendale, California 91205. For tickets, call Andy Tecson (323) 467-5096; Bob Shroder (818) 395-8936; and Arlene Ferrolino (213) 248-9850. Tickets are also available athttp://fasochristmas.eventbrite.com/. Tickets are at $25, $45 and $75. More information at www.fasofoundation.org.
D EC E M B E R 4
Aurora Inter-organizational Alliance-USA celebrates 8th anniversary in Granada Hills, CA Aurora Inter-organizational Alliance-USA announces its 8th anniversary celebration on Saturday, December 10 in Granada Hills, CA. It is an annual gathering of immigrants from the Aurora province’s 8 towns, aiming to further strengthen the camaraderie and spirit of the members. This year’s celebration hopes to gather 100 members and guests, who will be treated with traditional Filipino dishes as well as entertainment amid the sounds of Christmas carols. The night will be capped by the election of new officers for the new year. The event will be held at the Granada Hills Pavilion at 11128 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills, CA 91344 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, please contact Atty Al Nabor at (951) 818-8172 or Luchie Cuento at (818) 300-3212.
D EC E M B E R 5
AAPA Graduation Gala
Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) cordially invites you to the Graduation Gala on Monday, December 5 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Celebrate with AAPA mentor and mentees and learn about the organization’s impact in the community. Mr. Anthony Hong, vice president of clinical research and development of Johnson & Johnson Cardiovascular & Specialty Solutions will be the keynote speaker of the night. It will be held at DoubleTree by Hilton - Rosemead at 888 Montebello Blvd., Rosemead, CA 91770. The event is business casual/cocktail attire and is open to everyone. Complimentary for mentors and mentees. Guests at $25. Please RSVP and purchase tickets by November 28 at www.aapa. abcptsa.org.
D EC E M B E R 7
Filipino American Chamber of Commerce - SouthBay Los Angeles Area (FACC-SLAA)’s Business & Professionals Networking Mixer Come celebrate the holidays with FACC-SLAA, and meet other driven Filipino/FilAm businesspersons and professionals in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It will be at Wednesday, December 7 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the SOL Venue, 313 E Carson St., Carson, CA 90745. Tickets for FACC-SLAA members are free with pre-registration, $5 at the door. For non-members, $10 for pre-registration and $20 at the door. *Please bring presents ($20 minimum) for the gift exchange, and plenty of holiday cheer! For more information, please email facc.slaa@gmail.com.
D EC E M B E R 1 1
Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater LA (FACC-GLA)’s 15th year anniversary The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater LA (FACC-GLA) is celebrating its 15th year anniversary by recognizing businesses and community partners and installing officers and board members on Sunday, December 11 from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. The event will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside at 6333 Bristol Parkway, Culver City, CA 90230. The cost to attend is $50 and formal attire is required. Please make your check payable to FPACC Foundation, a 501(c)(3) corporation. A portion of the proceeds will go toward the educational scholarship funds and to help the underprivileged children in the Philippines. For any inquiries, please email info.faccgla@gmail.com.
D EC E M B E R 1 7-1 8
Consular outreach mission in Miami, Florida The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., in cooperation with the Philippine Nurses Association of America, Inc. - Central Florida Chapter, the Filipino-American Association of Pensacola, Inc., and the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Miami, is pleased to announce that it will conduct a consular outreach mission in Pensacola on Saturday and Sunday, October 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Services offered include: Philippine passport applications; legalization of documents (acknowledgment, authentication, etc.); and receipt of reports of birth, marriage and death. No applications for dual citizenship will be accepted at this time, as oaths of allegiance must be administered by the Philippine Consul General or Consul. For an appointment, please email consular@philippineusa.org and copy furnish honcon.miami@gmail.com. The Philippine Honorary Consulate in Miami is located at 12/F 1200 Brickell Ave., Miami, Florida 33131.
JA N UA RY 28 , 2 0 1 7
Historic Filipinotown Scavenger Hunt Explore the cultural gems of HiFi (Historic Filipinotown) by joining the 2nd HiFi Scavenger Hunt Fundraiser on Saturday, January 28 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m! Meet Filipino-specific challenges (from a Balut eating contest to dancing Tinikling to a hip hop beat!). You may find yourself meeting a little-known community hero, tasting a Filipino food challenge or receiving your very own Filipino nickname! You will be having a blast while building your bayanihan spirit by asking your friends and family and even your Facebook fans to donate money to sponsor your Team to take this challenge. You and your team choose your own fundraising goal! Funds raised by this event will go to the programs and services of 2 HiFi community organizations, Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) and Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI) to provide vital services to families, workers and seniors in our community. Services include free or low-cost citizenship application assistance, human trafficking survivor support, civic engagement, wage theft claims assistance, cultural programs and more! Have fun, Discover Historic Filipinotown win prizes and support your community while doing it! Go to www.pwcsc.org/HiddenHiFi to sign up now. PWC is located at 153 Glendale Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90026.
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com
An Asian Journal
Magazine
6
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N Ov E m b E R 25, 20 1 6
Jona has more to offer
77 Softwares, Inc. hosts 9th Annual Business Networking Cocktail Reception
new York, new York – seven seven (77) softwares, Inc. hosted By Bot Glorioso its Annual Business networking Philstar.com reception at the kalayaan Hall of sInCe Jona stepped inside the Philippine Center on Thursday, the premises of ABs-CBn as one of november 17. The event was held the newest addition to its stable of to extend appreciation to the talents, her timetable has always Filipino-American business and been packed with various singing corporate community, as well engagements and show guestings. as to encourage the guests to no wonder, it took eight months network. before Jona finally found time to 77 softwares, Inc. is a formally sign the two-year recording pioneering consulting company contract with the kapamilya with u.s. Headquarters e based network music arm, star Music, and in rockaway, new Jersey. It Jona is set to do an all-out performance on Nov. 25 via her first solo concert as a Kapamilya management deal with star Magic. also has offices in Manila and artist titled Queen of the Night: Jona at the Kia Theatre. The contract signing was held singapore. Its sizeable staffs performed live before us. she didn’t consists mainly of Filipino and last nov. 14 with star Music head the release of her new album which disappoint; malinis kumanta so roxy liquigan, audio content head will come out very soon. Filipino-American IT, Hr, and yun ang difference. she’s effortless Jonathan Manalo, manager Arlene Jona continued, “That’s why I’m engineering professionals. Coand her showmanship is very Meyer and star Magic handler love very happy and I felt I have become founded in 1996 by Macario Fojas impressive.” Capulong. Her formal introduction more inspired to do my work here and his wife Adela “Delle” seringFor his part, Jonathan said Jona Fojas, currently Chief executive as a kapamilya, by the way, was in ABs,” Jona added. “so parang is consistent, performance-wise. done through her singing the theme nag-umpisa na po talaga lahat ng officer (Ceo) of the company, “There are singers who excel in song 77 provides a wide range of song of the kapamilya soap “we will pangyayari na rito.” recordings and there are some who information technology services survive.” But this is not to say that Jona “Very colorful. There were lots was dissatisfied with her 10-year stay do better in live acts but Jona is to top u.s. insurance firms, the one of the few singers who delivers manufacturing sector, wall street of things that I did for the first time,” in GMA. In fact, she is grateful for all well in both song recording and live banks, and telecommunications said Jona as she described her first the wonderful experiences she had performance. kung ano yung tunog establishments around the eight months as part of the ABs-CBn with the kapuso network. “I admit n’ya sa pag-record ng song, ganun family during the press conference it crossed my mind the thought of, Asia-Pacific region. Its various din kapag live. Her vocal range is so technical services also include after the contract signing. “There ‘what if I transferred early on in my wide she can easily carry high and were many firsts, for me, here like career?’ But I have no regrets about software development, business low notes.” I did a cover as theme song (of a everything that happened in my process outsourcing (BPo), Hearing such heartening TV soap), first time on ‘AsAP’ stage, 10 years of stay at GMA because infrastructure and application comments from record label execs first TFC (event) with Ma’am Charo I learned a lot whether about support, IT call center services all the more made Jona eager to (santos-Concio) in spain. I was also performing on stage or my attitude and IT onsite consulting and show her best. able to do a star Cinema theme towards work. They taught me well placement. It is one of the “when I was just starting here, song for kathryn (Bernardo) and at nadala ko po dito lahat yun that’s first companies to outsource I’ve observed how competitive Daniel (Padilla) movie. It’s also my why I am so thankful sa lahat ng services from the Philippines and every artist here to his craft so it is first time to join ‘AsAP live’ in new pinagdaanan ko sa GMA,” stressed expanded its operations in the really a must to excel in your chosen u.s. and singapore. It is also an York, had my first duet with Gary Jona who bid GMA goodbye path. It’s good to relax sometimes Valenciano and my first time to join without a heavy heart. elite provider of choice for several but when it comes to work you have Fortune 500 companies. (as interpreter) in the songwriting Besides, roxy said that Jona’s to give your best shot.” contest ‘Himig Handog 2016.’” transfer was smooth. “Before we opening remarks were That’s why Jona is prepping Thus, Jona couldn’t contain her got her, someone told me that she delivered by former new York up for her first solo concert as a happiness when roxy revealed that no longer had a binding contract Chief Technology officer Filipinokapamilya, titled “Queen of the more projects are about to land on with GMA for quite some time at American Minerva Tantoco. she night: Jona,” on nov. 25 at the kia her lap since star Music’s plans for ako naman, I really love her kasi acknowledged the company’s Theatre. Join her as she is set to rock pioneering work in the BPo the singer are already in the drawing magaling talaga siya. And even sina the stage and do impressive songboard. If roxy is not mistaken, Jona Jolina (Magdangal) and kyla moved industry in the Philippines and-dance numbers with guests is estimated to be busy as a bee until here without any problems so we which began in 2001, and how Jed Madela, Daryl ong and regine the next four or five years. This led took Jona in.” 77 is a shining example of the Velasquez. one member of the entertainment Asked what makes Jona Filipino-American ingenuity and “of course, I’d still be doing press to tease Jona that, if and different from other star Music dedication to entrepreneurial what the audience expects from when that happens, it only means artists, roxy said he finds her vocal success, as well as contributing me only this time I will perform in a that Jona has to sign an extension talent excellent, adding, “we’re to the enhancement of technical bigger venue. There are production clientele services throughout the of contract. The 27-year-old power scared fans of Jona since she started numbers that I cannot reveal yet so northeastern u.s. belter gently nodded with a sweet in the other station and during you have to watch “Queen of the smile plastered on her face. Part of our first meeting here at ABs, we Ms. sering-Fojas expressed night” to find out,” she ended. her two-year contract, Jona shared, is checked her music video and she her gratitude to all the attending guests at the reception, and stated how she would continue her work overseeing the growth of the company and its services to all its clientele. she also stated that the company will continue to work closely with the Philippine Government in forging closer ties amongst the Filipino-American
WE ARE
HIRING Asian Journal Publications is now looking for:
Customer Sales and Service Representative Fax résumé to:
Former New York Chief Technology Officer Minerva Tantoco gives her welcoming remarks at the Networking Reception
Consul General Dizon-de Vega presents the latest economic developments in the Philippines
Guests at the networking reception included representatives from companies and organizations such as Deutsche Bank, Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan Chase, Arch Insurance and the PhilippineAmerican Chamber of Commerce.
business community. Aside from brief remarks, Consul General Dizon de Vega gave a presentation on the latest economic developments in the Philippines under the new administration of President rodrigo roa Duterte. she spoke about the 10-Point socioeconomic Agenda, the Build Build Build public infrastructure program as well as the latest positive news on the 7.1% GDP
New York Consulate welcomes National Youth Commission and Film Development Council heads Consul General Theresa Dizon-de Vega welcomed and met with national Youth Commission (nYC) Chairperson Aiza seguerra and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Chairperson Mary liza Diño at the Philippine Consulate General in new York. During the meeting, the Consulate and the FDCP discussed existing and other possible platforms for promoting Philippine films to a wider international audience. Consul General Dizon-de Vega briefed Chairperson Diño on the various efforts undertaken by the Consulate to promote Philippine film in new York, considered one of the major film capitals of the world. The FDCP Chairperson was provided with copies of literature on the annual “sinehan sa summer” film festival organized by the Consulate and briefed on film festivals in the us northeast where Filipino filmmakers could have opportunities to exhibit their works. Chairman Diño shared with the Consulate the new film promotion and development programs of the FDCP as well as the agency’s plans to hold travelling film festivals overseas. Consul General Dizon-de Vega conveyed the Consulate’s readiness to support the FDCP’s program.
Cultural Office Olivia Magpile, FDCP Chairperson Mary Liza Diño, Consul General Theresa Dizon-de Vega, NYC Chairperson Aiza Seguerra, Consul Arman Talbo
Consul General de Vega likewise briefed nYC Chair seguerra on its programs for 2nd and 3rd generation FilipinoAmericans to reconnect to their Philippine roots through sociocivic work, social enterprises, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, among other platforms. she was likewise informed about the Filipino-
The startling resurgence...
info@asianjournalinc.com
growth for the 3rd quarter of 2016. she likewise emphasized the government’s commitment to further support the IT-BPM Industry. The reception had nearly 100 guests, including representatives from prestigious firms like Deutsche Bank, Morgan stanley, JP Morgan Chase, Arch Insurance, and the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce, among others.
From Page 4 interpreter.” And speaking of “Mahal na Mahal” Archie’s heart skipped a beat upon learning that he was booked by a couple for an all expenses paid (with honorarium) to las Vegas to personally perform the said song) in their wedding on november 26, 2016.
“Imagine, “Mahal na Mahal” was their themesong back in college and now I’ve a serendipitous rendezvous with them through my song. Actually, we haven’t met yet…and that made it even so surreal… and it’s actually happening!” Archie could only proudly gush in excitement. After all these are developing,
American Youth leadership Program (FYlPro). Chairperson seguerra noted that the Commission plans to work more closely with overseas migrant Filipino Youth Communities. Consul Arman Talbo and Cultural-Community officer olivia osias-Magpile joined the meeting with the nYC and FDCP heads. what could an esteemed singercomposer-record producer like him fervently wish for? “At this point, I guess I need another hit song…something that could surpass the success of “Mahal na Mahal” and “kasayaw. I feel I still have a chance to hit it back…and I am definitely working on it doubly hard!” For Comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.
Anthony Diaz V tackles domestic issues and adjusting to a new culture in new film by Jerry
Donato Philstar.com
FIL-AM Anthony Diaz V shared his first full-length film “Break” with his kababayan in a screening held at the Power Plant Mall Cinema 3. The film is the culmination of his creative narrative as young auteur—and the first step to bigger platforms like the Sundance Film Festival, founded by Robert Redford. Anthony has submitted Break to the festival. “I’ve always been passionate with film since I was a little kid,” recalled Anthony. “I would always have movie nights with my family or with my father… I was always interested in and wondering (about) the characters’ motivation and what they are in stories.” That enthusiasm didn’t translate into an earlier foray into filmmaking, exploring its nittygritty. Anthony was sidetracked to theater. “In theater, I was a big acting geek. I got bitten by the acting bug. I started out as an actor growing up. But then as I got older, around 12 to 13 years old, my dad bought me my first little cheap
camera. That’s when I started creating stories by myself with my brothers and sisters and other family members. Then that’s when I started venturing out behind the camera.” From being part of the stage ensemble, Anthony jumped over to the other side, so to speak, to be in charge of his film’s mise en scene—carefully crafting its look and tone. According to Anthony, most of his works are narratives, “Nothing, no documentary work like that.” He is showing his A-game as a narrator of a “moving fiction” but based on facts that he must have observed as an American adult and as a sojourner abroad. “This is actually my first fulllength feature,” said Anthony. “I’ve done a lot of short films in college and high school and middle school... I do stories that are very controversial. I like to do stories that actually people are afraid to tell. That’s my type of mantra.” So far, the themes Anthony has explored range from racism to inequality (“Poor people vs. rich people”). In “Break,” Anthony
Allergies 101
shared, “It’s the Japanese mindset of thinking that they are supposedly the superior race in terms of culture and lifestyle as compared to others. They think their society is a perfect society. For example in ‘Break,’ I came here (in Japan) thinking I wanna show the ghetto side. I wanna show people that every culture or every country to go to has a ghetto side. And I wanted to bring that to the forefront. Because everybody that sees Japan, it’s always about cherry blossoms, kimonos... But I really like to raise questions in my stories. I really like to make people think when they leave the theater. Whether it is good or bad or they hated it, I want them to really think about what they just saw.” As a director, Anthony said he feels that “I have a unique voice to be heard because I grew up in California and in some rough neighborhood of California and (I’ve been) traveling ever since I was a young kid with my father all over Asia. I’ve gotten to experience to see some parts of the world that not many people, even the young generation, have seen
aspartame because these people do not metabolize the amino acid From Page 5 called phenylalanine, which is a children outgrow their allergies, recipes call for the use of MSG, this but early peanut allergy can be for component of aspartame. High levels of phenylalanine in the body reaction has been termed “Chinese life, although new strategy using can cause brain damage. Food Syndrome.” This is actually desensitization is now being used Are sulfite preservatives alnot an allergy, but there are some to treat them. lergens? people to are really allergic to MSG. What are the signs of an alYes, sulfites, which are antioxiWhat is anaphylactic shock? lergic reaction? dants used to prevent or reduce This is a violent allergic Sneezing, skin rashes or hives, discoloration of light colored fruits reaction, which results in massive runny nose, swelling of the lips or and vegetables and also to inhibit swelling and rapid closure of the tongue, stomach cramps, vomitthe growth of bacteria in fermentair passages, precipitous drop in ing and diarrhea, difficulty in ed foods, like wine, are allergens. blood pressure, and death by sufbreathing, wheezing, and in more focation. In some cases, bee stings severe cases, anaphylactic shock as Although majority of people do not have problems with sulfites, those have caused anaphylactic shock. described above. sensitive to them, especially those How common is food allergy? How about allergies to food with asthma, can develop mild to Medical reports have shown additives? life-threatening symptoms. that about 2% (two out of a hunAdverse allergic reactions to Does maternal smoking dred) of adults and about 8% of some food additives have been children have true food allergies. reported. Among some of them are cause allergies in children? Cigarette smoking during pregFood allergy is not the same as aspartame (as in Equal, a sweetenfood intolerance (like stomach er), MSG, FD&C Yellow No. 5 (a food nancy has been shown to increase aches following ingestion of milk color also known as tartrazine), and the incidence of allergies among for those with deficiency of lactase, sulfites (sulfur-based preservatives). the newborns. Rarely, specific allergies can be “inherited” from the the enzyme that digests lactoseFollowing controlled studies in parents. Studies have confirmed -milk and milk products). Food aspartame, the FDA determined it the assessment that avoidance intolerance is due to body meis not an allergen, and that aspartabolism and does not involve the tame is safe. Pregnant women with by the mother of food allergens may reduce the incidence of some immune system. Some people are high level of phenylalanine in the allergic to shellfish, peanuts, a few blood, some people with a genetic food allergies in infants and young children. to chicken. Cow’s milk, soy, wheat disease called PKU (phenylketonWhat is the best treatment and eggs are common cause of uria), and those with advance regimen for allergies? allergies in children. In some cases, liver disease have a problem with
before. So I feel like I can be a voice for many different countries, for many different themes, for other people.” “Break” started out as short film titled “A Lunch Break” that Anthony made when he was 17 with friends in Las Vegas. “It was just a short film... I just decided to change the story a little bit, add some American flavor to it and mix that with Japanese culture, change dialogues and add some characters and make it a bit a grand story. The challenge with that was the language barrier. The language barrier was very hard. Nobody spoke English. With the (Japanese) actors, I had to train them to speak English. And I had to learn Japanese for my lines.” Another “roadblock” Anthony had to hurdle was the fact that guerilla shooting is not allowed in Japan. However, his hard work paid off since Anthony’s film got an awesome reception from the Japanese who attended the private screening. Like his influence Mel Gibson, Anthony starred in “Break” and he wrote, directed, edited and
An Asian Journal
Magazine
7
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY N Ov E m b E R 25, 20 1 6
produced it. The feelings of loneliness and alienation (which are part of the internal struggles of Anthony’s character) and the family drama
Bubble Gang turns 21... From Page 2 combined, tulong, tulong lang. I listen to the staff (and ask them) ‘Paano dati ninyo ito ginagawa? Is there any room to improve whatever segments are on the script for that day?’ So it’s work but again it’s fun (to do).” Michael V., meanwhile, pinned down the answers on how the show has stayed at par with comedy and kept its viewers engaged. “It’s evolution,” he said. “The stars, the writers need to evolve. Pati yung buong network minsan nakiki-evolve din. It’s how you make a fresh
take on an old punchline, paano mo babaliin yung set-up or vice versa, or how to come up with an original material. (Success) does not rely only on one person. That’s why it’s a gang (Michael V. is referring to the show’s title Bubble Gang). Yung mga writers namin sila talaga yung hands-on. They are really the ones who go out on the streets, mingle with people to know what’s in and the trends now, at yun ang gagamitin naming materyal.” Tweaking familiar jokes and coming up with new materials are the challenges any gag
As with any medical condition or illness, prevention is the key. Avoidance of all known allergens is the best regimen in dealing with allergies and asthmatic attacks. Those who have food or drug allergies must read all ingredient labels and be extra cautious before ingesting anything. Fortunately, severe allergic reactions are not very common. Those with more than mild to severe form of allergies must be trained
by a physician on the life-saving technique of self-injection of 0.1 ml (one tenth of a cc) epinephrine (adrenalin) subcutaneously (under the skin) when symptoms first begin to manifest following exposure to known allergens. In this dire situation, every minute counts, and 5 or 10 minutes may spell the difference between life and death. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac
make the film relatable to places like the Philippines, whose people value family ties and have their own tales of diaspora in finding greener pastures.
show deals with episode after episode. For the actors, however, translating comedy sketches on TV and acting them out are the battlegrounds. “I think there are times when what we find funny doesn’t appear funny to the viewers,” said Paolo. “Ilang beses naming nakita na ang saya naming ginagawa pero nung pinanuod pangit. (As an actor,) your priority is to make the audience laugh not (putting) yourselves (in stitches) on the set.” “Gawing natural yung mga eksena, hindi pilit, hindi mukhang inaarte namin,” added Sef Cadayona. “The scenes should look real — that they do happen in real life and in any setting.” Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
An Asian Journal
Magazine
8
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY NOvEmbER 25 , 2016