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Volume10 – Issue 5 • 16 Pages
O C T O BE R 2 8 - N O V E MBE R 3 , 2 0 1 6
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Pres. Duterte: Foreign troops out in 2 years by LeiLa
B. SaLaverria Inquirer.net
toKYo — President Duterte on Wednesday, oct. 26 said he wanted Us troops out of the Philippines, “maybe in the next two years,” and he was willing to scrap defense pacts with longtime ally the United states if necessary. “I have declared I will pursue an independent foreign policy. I want, maybe in the next two years, my country free of the presence of foreign military troops,” mr. Duterte, clearly referring to Us forces, said in a speech to Japanese businessmen in tokyo at the start of a three-day official visit to Japan. “I want them out and if I have to revise or abrogate agreements, executive agreements, I will,” he said.
mr. Duterte was referring to about 100 Us elite troops advising the Philippine military in counterterrorism operations in mindanao, and to the enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (eDCA) that allows the Us military access to five Philippine military bases, including for positioning of warships and planes and storing weapons and equipment. the eDCA was signed by Us and Philippine officials in 2014 amid increasingly aggressive incursion by China into the West Philippine sea, waters within manila’s 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone in the south China sea. No more war games mr. Duterte reiterated that the joint UsPhilippine marine landing exercises earlier this month were the last of his six-year
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SOLIDARITY GESTURE. President Duterte, who is on a three-day official visit to Japan, and his delegation greet members of the Philippine community in Tokyo with raised fists in a gesture of solidarity during a meeting at the Palace Hotel. Malacañang photo
‘PH still largest recipient of US aid in Asia-Pacific’ PNP-SFPD exchange training program DATELINE USA terminated due to Trump blames drug war deaths Obama for PH-US separation by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
IN response to President rodrigo Duterte’s call to sever economic and military ties with the United states, Donald trump blamed President Barack obama for the split. the republican presidential nominee attacked obama for campaigning for Democratic nominee hillary Clinton rather than “working.” he criticized the president for being “weak” in maintaining the long-standing alliance between the United states and the Philippines. “Why is obama campaigning? he ought to be out working,” trump said at a rally in North Carolina on friday, october 21. “the heads of the Philippines, they’re so angry. [Duterte] leaves for China, [and] he’s now negotiating with China,” trump said. “We’ve been with the Philippines for, practically, forever. they’re a very important strategic ally, and what happens? China and russia are probably going to take it, and I see [obama] campaigning for Crooked hill-
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Alice Bulos, ‘Grand Dame of Fil-Am Politics,’ passes away sAN frANCIsCo — Alice Bulos, 86, longtime political leader in the filipino American community passed away friday, oct. 21 at 2:23 p.m. she was rushed to seton medical Center in Daly City, California but died of heart failure. Known as the “Grand Dame of filipino American PoliAlice Bulos tics,” she served the filipino community for nearly half a century, mentoring young Democratic-leaning leaders and helping the disenfranchised and under-represented groups. Bulos represented California at the Demo-
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mANILA, Philippines — the Philippines remains the largest recipient of Us military assistance in the Asia-Pacific region with $66 million in foreign funding in 2015. outgoing Us Ambassador Philip Goldberg explained that other countries receive larger Us assistance because these are “conflict” areas. “Let’s remember that the Philippines is our largest recipient of military assistance in this region,” Goldberg said in an interview on ANC’s “headstart.” Last year alone, he said the Philippines received $66 million in foreign military funding that helped purchase defense equipment. he noted that the Us also provided $42 million to the Philippines out of $60 million total in the Us maritime security initiative. “the Philippines was the largest recipient. Why? Because it’s our friend, our ally and because it has the need but the Philippines, if it wants its own defense capability, will have to spend more also,” he
by Dana
SioSon AJPress
US Ambassador Philip Goldberg
added. the ambassador said the fundamentals of Philippine-Us relationship are “very strong and solid,” but the President’s statements combined with insults and profane language he used against the Us caused uncertainty in the relations. he added that it would be a good step to sit down,
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Duterte wants present generation to be the last batch of OFWs by Dana
SioSon AJPress
sPeAKING before the filipino community in Japan, President rodrigo Duterte said the current generation will be the last wave of overseas filipino workers (ofWs). “Ang pagtrabaho n’yo sa ibang bansa, hanggang diyan na lang. Next generation, [sa] Pilipinas na [magtrabaho] (Your work in other countries will end here. The next generation will work in the Philippines),” he said in his speech after arriving in tokyo on tuesday, october 25. the president also reiterated his promise to boost the country’s economic growth so that filipinos no longer need to search for a job abroad. “We have to improve the economy na hindi ka na babalik dito, na kung bumalik ka rito, bakabakasyon na lang (so that you do not have to
come back here, and even if you do, it’s just for vacation),” he said, addressing the migrant workers. According to the Philippine statistics Authority, there were about 2.4 million ofWs in 2015. Duterte also told the filipino community in tokyo about his plan to create an ofW bank by buying the Philippine Postal savings Bank (PostBank), a government thrift bank that provides services in the ‘unbanked’ areas of the country. A bank that would specialize in ofW services were among his promises to the migrant workers during the campaign period. President Duterte is currently in Japan on a three-day official visit to discuss “greater politico-social and defense cooperation particularly in maritime domain awareness and maritime security.” “I go to Japan with full trust that we can under-
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the san francisco Police District (sfPD) in California has put an end to its 16 yearlong exchange training program with the Philippine National Police (PNP). According to reports from California news station KPIX, retired sfPD Lieutenant eric Quema said the turmoils in the Philippines affects the segments of the program. the partnership training was cut off due to the alleged violation of human rights and the rising death toll in relation to the Philippine government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. “It just gets worse and worse. economically, because of this controversy, it’s affecting every segment of making us a better nation and a better people, so it’s disappointing to me,” Quema said. however, he pointed out that he will not judge the Philippines’s war on drugs. “this is someone else’s country, maybe you should live in there and see how it is. It doesn’t justify it or not, but maybe it will give you a better perspective on why they’re coming on so hard,” Quema said. records from PNP revealed that 1,645 drug suspects were killed from July to october 15 while 22,791 were arrested and 734,231 individuals surrendered to the authorities. Quema then suggested to “try to get some diplomatic talking and communication going on because fighting back and forth just drags everybody down, breaks ties that have been historically there for years.” In its website, the sfPD earlier said the Philippine exchange Program was “dedicated to the exchange of law enforcement skills and knowledge, and to the fostering of camaraderie between officers in the Philippines and san francisco.”
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FBI help rescue dozens of trafficked children
the Us federal Bureau of Investigation, along with representatives from the National Center for missing and exploited Children and several international law enforcement partners, rescued 82 minors and arrested 239 traffickers and their associates in operations carried out in the Philippines, thailand and Cambodia. the arrests were made under oper-
ation Cross Country, an international effort focusing on underage human trafficking that ran from october 13 to 16, 2016. In the Philippines, using information from the fBI, law enforcers recovered two boys, aged 5 and 11, and a twoyear-old girl. Authorities arrested five adults who ran a web-streaming service for individuals who would pay for
access to livestreaming sexual abuse, as well as access to the children for the purpose of illegal sexual acts. “operation Cross Country aims to shine a spotlight into the darkest corners of our society that seek to prey on the most vulnerable of our population,” fBI Director James Brien Comey said. “As part of this effort, we are not only looking to root out those who
engage in the trafficking of minors, but through our office for Victim Assistance, we offer a lifeline to minors to help them escape from a virtual prison no person ever deserves.” operation Cross Country is part of the fBI’s Innocence Lost Initiative, which began in 2003 and has yielded more than 6,000 child identifications and locations. (ManilaTimes.net)
A OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
From the Front Page
Pres. Duterte: Foreign troops out…
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BUDGET HEARING. Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, chairperson of the Senate Finance Subcommittee C, tackles the proposed 2017 budget of the Department of Trade and Industry amounting to P7.95 billion, which is 20 percent higher than the agency’s current budget of P6.64 billion, during a public hearing, October 24, 2016. The DTI’s 2017 budget, according to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, is geared towards boosting employment and entrepreneurship in the country as a means to uplift the quality of life of Filipinos and alleviate poverty. Also in photo is former Senator Serge Osmeña. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
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‘PH still largest recipient of US…
constructively talk about what it is at issue, if there are problems, changes required and if there are things that the Philippine side wants. “But right now we’re just dealing with the series of statements without the ability of Cabinet members to really fully explain or discuss,” Goldberg said. Meeting canceled Meanwhile, a scheduled meeting this month between the US and the Philippine military and defense planners on holding joint military exercises in the country next year has been canceled. Military officials said the joint Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) meeting has been canceled in-
definitely. “Originally, the meeting was set last Oct. 24 but was moved to Nov. 22 because we want the meeting to be held after the US elections.” Earlier, the President had declared that under his term, he would no longer allow joint exercises of US and Filipino troops in the country. But a source said the President’s statements have nothing to do with the postponement of the yearly engagements, which include the preparation and planning for next year’s Balikatan exercises, joint Amphibious Landing Exercises and the Cooperation Afloat Readiness Training. The exercises include training on humanitarian and disas-
ter response, which benefited the Philippines largely during the onslaught of killer Typhoon Yolanda in Eastern Visayas in 2013. Sources also disclosed that to date, there is no concrete guidance from the President yet to terminate the joint war drills with the US. In the absence of concrete guidance, both military and defense officials are still planning for next year’s bilateral exercises. “We are crafting what would be agreeable for both of us (US and the Philippines Armed Forces) and this will be presented for approval by the President during a Cabinet meeting next month,” a source said. (With Jaime Laude)
Duterte wants… PNP-SFPD exchange training…
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stand each other and Japan will understand my position vis-à-vis with the foreign policy that I want to implement. It’s just a question of a policy that is really truly Filipino,” Duterte said at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport prior to his departure. n
PAGE A1 t It also said that the exchange training is “regarded as the first formal training program established between a U.S. law enforcement agency and the PNP.” Last year, the SFPD operated charity works in Philippine schools and helped with the training of Filipino cops. The SFPD also donated equipment to the PNP. n
presidency. “Then, in the fullness of God’s time, I am President for six years, no more. I want to be a friend to China,” he said. Annual joint maneuvers between US and Philippine forces are authorized under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), an offshoot of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) signed by the two countries in 1951. “I do not need the arms. I do not want missiles established in my country. I do not need to have the Air Force hosting bombers with hydrogen bombs,” Mr. Duterte said. “Those things I do not need. I just want friendship with everybody,” he added. Although his Japanese hosts depend on the United States for security, Tokyo has so far not responded to Mr. Duterte’s diatribes, while Washington has taken a calm approach to the Philippine leader’s anti-US rhetoric. Long view “We’re going to take the long view,” US state department spokesperson John Kirby said on Tuesday. Kirby said Mr. Duterte’s tirades against the United States were “inexplicably at odds” with the relationship the two countries continued to enjoy. “We’ve seen this rhetoric and then we’ve seen it walked back,” Kirby told a regular news briefing in Washington. “We’re not going to react and respond to every bit of rhetoric. We’re going to continue to work at this relationship.” Kirby said the United States would continue to meet its obligations in its defense treaty with the Philippines, adding Washington had not seen Mr. Duterte’s comments against it translate into policy. Mr. Duterte’s aides frequently attempt to walk back his controversial comments, and Wednesday was no exception. Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay, who is traveling with Mr. Duterte, told a subsequent press briefing that Mr. Duterte did not mean US troops would not be ousted, stressing that “our national interests still continue to converge.” No breach in treaty Yasay said, however, that the
President Rodrigo Duterte
Philippines was not breaching any obligation under the MDT by stopping joint military exercises with the United States. The MDT does not require joint exercises, Yasay told reporters, without mentioning the VFA. He said the context of Mr. Duterte’s statement about stopping joint exercises was that if the joint drills could not meet their objectives, then there was no point in continuing to hold them. Mr. Duterte has said that only US forces benefit from the joint maneuvers, although he has not been specific. Yasay said Mr. Duterte had promised to respect treaties signed by the Philippines. Not cutting ties Mr. Duterte has said the Philippines will not sever relations with the United States. But his declaration of a “separation” from the United States in China last week has caused confusion in Japan, a staunch US ally that hosts 50,000 American troops. His remarks about his “realignment with China” has added to unease in Japan, which is rowing with China over ownership of five uninhabited islands in the East China Sea. Seeking to ease those jitters, Mr. Duterte assured the Japanese businessmen that his high-profile visit to China was all about economics. “You know I went to China for a visit. I would like to assure you that what all there was was eco-
nomics,” he said. “We did not talk about arms, we did not talk about stationing of troops. We avoided talking about alliances, military or otherwise.” Mr. Duterte told his Japanese audience that he sought only peace and friendship and that the Philippines’ friendship with Japan would remain intact. “I give you my word today that we will not abandon Japan in our partnership and security matters, given the common belief that our conflicts and problems with other nations must be resolved peacefully, in accordance with international law,” he said. The Philippines, he said, would remain a “partner and player” in maritime safety and security. “We would like to avoid at all costs violence because we have to resolve it peacefully and in accordance with international law. That is my assurance, that in all these endeavors we will be your partner and we will stand by our word,” he said. War on drugs Mr. Duterte slammed the United States for criticizing his bloody war on illegal drugs and threatening to cut off aid to the Philippines over human rights violations. He said the United States viewed him as a dog on a leash—if he would not stop “biting” criminals, Washington would hold back a treat for him. “That is what America wants me to be. A dog barking for the crumbs of their favor,” he said. n
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Dateline USa
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2016
American couple face trafficking, child abuse raps by Leo
Udtohan Philstar.com
TAGBILARAN CITY — Charges of human trafficking and child abuse were filed against an American couple for running an orphanage here without a permit. Matthew Dwinells, 56, and his wife, Dalisay, 63, were detained at the National Bureau of Investigation office here pending resolution of the complaint at the prosecutor’s office. Attached in the complaint was the joint affidavit of six personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), alleging that the The couple could not show proof that the parents of the 25 minors—13 girls and 12 boys—and 13 others, aged 18 and 19, allowed
President Duterte is greeted by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the start of their meeting at Abe’s official residence in Tokyo on Wednesday, Oct. 26.
Duterte urges Japan: Invest more in PH PH, Japan to stand together on sea row
by Christina
Mendez
Philstar.com
TOKYO — After telling American investors in the Philippines to pack up and leave, President Duterte courted Japanese businessmen on Thursday, Oct. 27, to put their money in the country and contribute to its economic growth and make “meaningful changes” in the lives of people. “Maybe, if you come to the Philippines, you just have to contend with the new dynamics of my country,” he said, apparently referring to his independent foreign policy. Duterte has been assailing the United States due to its criticism of his bloody war against illegal drugs. His anti-US rhetoric was said to have spooked American businesses, but Duterte boasted the country could survive without them. The President went to China last week for a state visit and declared “separation” from the US, but he clarified here that he merely discussed economics and not military alliance with Beijing. The US and Japan have openly supported the Philippines in its maritime row with China, which has aggressively occupied the South China Sea. Japan also has a sea dispute with China. In his meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Duterte said they agreed to collaborate on political, security and defense issues to create an enabling environment for the two countries’ economies to grow. Duterte added, “Japan will continue to play an important role in modernizing the capabilities of the Philippines for maritime domain awareness and maritime security as well as in humanitarian relief and disaster risk reduction response.” Both countries agreed to work together on peaceful settlement and adherence to the rule of law with regard to the disputed South China Sea. But the issue on the rule of law referred only to the South China Sea dispute, not to Duterte’s controversial drug war that strained
relations between the Philippines and the US, an ally of Japan. Explaining his war on drugs and the need for the country to be able to stand on its own, Duterte said at present, “we are putting in place policies aimed at ensuring stability in the macro-economic policies,” increasing competitiveness and in crucial infrastructure, improving ease of doing business and investing further in human capital development by cultivating an “environment conducive for business.” “We count on Japan to further extend its valuable support in our pursuits,” Duterte said, also citing the need for rural development and increasing agriculture productivity, in a speech at the Philippine Economic Forum attended by potential Japanese investors and Filipino business groups at the Prince Park Tower. “We would like to see more investors and more businesses setting up shop in the Philippines,” Duterte, who is on a three-day official visit here, said. While they are welcome to invest, Duterte said the businessmen would have to contend with new policies. “I just want friendship with everybody. Go there but do not expect so much, expectations from maybe the policies of the West,” Duterte said. Japan is the biggest trading partner of the Philippines, followed by the US and China. “We look to Japan as a steady fulcrum in our regional engagements as the Philippines’ first and only bilateral free trade partner to date,” he said. Duterte also recognized Japan as the Philippines’ “top source of approved investments and second major source of official development assistance. “These economic development thrusts are necessary ingredients in making the growth impact on the lives of our people,” Duterte said. “Aside from nurturing our people’s enterprising spirit through the promotion of micro, small and medium enterprises,
SE Asia faces rising threat from IS groups, says study SOUTHEAST Asia faces a growing risk of extremist violence as Islamic State group supporters increasingly work together, but law enforcement agencies are unprepared for the new threat, a report warned Tuesday, Oct. 25. The main danger lies in the strife-torn southern Philippines, where a handful of Islamic extremist groups have sworn allegiance to IS, according to the report from think-tank the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC). The groups have links to other parts of the region, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia, and IS has endorsed a Philippines-based militant as “amir”, or leader, for Southeast Asia, the report said. “ISIS has deepened cooperation among extremist groups in Southeast Asia,” said the report, using another name for IS, adding the trend had widened the “extremist recruitment pool” and opened new channels for international funding and communication. “More deadly violence in the Philippines involving alliances of pro-ISIS groups is a matter of when, not if. It may also increase the possibility of cross-border extremist operations.” However it noted that “most law enforcement agencies retain a strongly national orientation, without in-house expertise on groups outside their own borders”. While IS is rapidly losing terri-
tory in Iraq and Syria, the effect may be to increase the risk of revenge attacks in Southeast Asia, said the report by Jakarta-based IPAC, headed by terrorism analyst Sidney Jones. The warning came as the United States ambassador to Manila, Philip Goldberg, said Tuesday that America wants to remain involved in the campaign to quell Islamic militancy in the southern Philippines, after President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to kick out US forces. Parts of Southeast Asia have long struggled with Islamic militancy and hundreds of radicals from the region have flocked to join IS. Southeast Asians fighting for the jihadists have formed their own unit in the Middle East, called Katibah Nusantara, and are believed to be in regular contact with militants back home. The region suffered its first IS attack in January when extremists launched a deadly suicide bombing and gun assault in Jakarta. The IPAC report examined four pro-IS groups in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao and their links to neighboring countries. It said the Maute group, which is accused of carrying out a bombing in Duterte’s southern home town of Davao in September that killed 15 people, had the “smartest, best-educated and most sophisticated members.” (ManilaTimes.net with reports from AFP)
the government is equally determined to generate more jobs by making it easier and more attractive to do business in the country,” he added. While he dished out his displeasure against the US, Duterte was all praises for Japan, describing it as a great country that helped the Philippines “in so many ways in the past.” n
A
them to bring their children to Bohol province. Of the 38 children and teens rescued from the orphanage, 35 were from Bohol, two from Leyte province and one from Negros Island. The Dwinells couple are missionaries who identify themselves as directors of the Street Kids Philippine Mission, which has been operating for six years. It rescues street kids in Cebu City. The couple operated an orphanage in a two-story house in Barangay Bool in this city that was raided by NBI agents on Oct. 22 on the request of the DSWD. Interviewed at his detention cell, Matthew claimed they were merely delayed in processing documents needed for the permit to run the orphanage. He dismissed allegations of human trafficking, saying they
sought consent from the parents of the 38 children. He could not, however, present a written proof. The couple showed a permit from the Office of the Mayor in Dauis town that authorized them to run an orphanage there. The permit, however, expired on Dec. 31, 2015. “I am not making money from these kids and if I do, I am really a bad person,” Matthew said. “I love the Philippines. I love the kids. We have done nothing wrong. We have nothing to hide.” Matthew clarified that only 32 were under their custody because the six others were with another group living in the same house. Lawyer Arcelito Albao, supervising agent of NBI Bohol, said
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Trump blames Obama for PH-US… PAGE A1 t
ary, come on.” Duterte’s anti-American rhetoric has sparked concern over the Philippine/U.S. alliance, which has remained since 1946 when the Philippines became an independent nation. According to a survey from Pew Research Center, 92 percent of Filipinos hold a favorable opinion of the United States. The Philippine president made international headlines when he announced a separation from the United States and a move to establish relations with China. He later clarified his statements saying that he did not
mean a separation of diplomatic and “social” relations, but strictly for economic and military reasons, as previously reported by the Asian Journal. “There are three of us against the world: China, Philippines, Russia,” Duterte said. Countering Duterte’s plans to cozy up to China, a recent poll from the Social Weather Stations (SWS) reported that more Filipinos trust the U.S. over China. The survey showed that 76 percent of Filipinos exhibit “much trust” for the U.S. China paled in comparison, garnering a 22 percent rating in the same category.
Duterte has also expressed plans to establish an alliance with Russia. When probed about whether he supports Trump or Clinton, Duterte dodged the question and opted to praise Russian President Vladimir Putin who has also expressed antiAmerican sentiments. “I cannot gamble an answer. Because either way it would affect, you know, they might create a hostility here, antagonism here. So I am better off in saying that my favorite hero is Putin,” the Philippine president told reporters upon arriving in Davao City from China on Friday. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
A OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
PH closes gender gap in health, education by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com
Viray
THE Philippines’ gender gap on the subindex of health and survival remains fully closed while it has re-closed the educational attainment subindex, according to the Global Gender Gap Report 2016 published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on Tuesday, October 25. The country has fully closed its gender gap on health and survival since 2006 while it reclosed its educational attainment gap which re-opened slightly last year. The Philippines remains the highest performer in the East Asia and Pacific region with an overall rank of 7 (0.786) out of 144 countries. “The Philippines and New Zealand maintain their overall Index top ten rankings on the back of strong scores on closing the Political Empowerment gender gap and despite the Philippines’ small decline on the Economic Participation and Op-
portunity subindex,” the report said. Manila ranked 21st in the economic participation and opportunity subindex with a score of 0.780 due to fewer female legislators, senior officials and managers. Meanwhile, the Philippines ranked 17th in political empowerment with a score of 0.386. “Existing data benchmarking women’s economic leadership roles is uneven in coverage and more should be done to fill existing gaps in knowledge,” the report read. According to the report, average female representation on boards is 14 percent. Only five countries have broken the 30 percent participation threshold — Iceland, Norway, France, Latvia and Finland. “Notable performers include the Philippines, China, Nicaragua, Bahamas, Botswana, Sweden and Brazil,” the report said. The report said that the closing of the economic gender gap ranges from 47 to 1,951 years
with “current rates of change across world regions.” Western Europe has the fastest-closing economic gender gap predicted at 47 years. Eastern Europe and Central Asia, however, have slower rates of change predicted at 93 years. As for East Asia and the Pacific, the WEF predicts a closing of the economic gender gap at 111 years. The top ten countries in the global index are: Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Rwanda, Ireland, the Philippines, Slovenia, New Zealand and Nicaragua. The rankings in the Global Gender Index are designed to create global awareness of the challenges posed by gender gap and the opportunities created by reducing them. “The Index benchmarks national gender gaps on economic, education, health and political criteria, and provides country rankings that allow for effective comparisons across regions and income groups,” the World Economic Forum said. n
Dateline USa
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
GOODWILL VISIT. The training squadron of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force arrived in Manila on Monday, Oct. 24 for a goodwill visit to the Philippines to enhance friendship with the Philippine Navy. The training squadron, commanded by JMSDF Rear Adm. Hidetoshi Iwasaki, is docked at South Harbor, Manila, and will be staying from October 23 to 27 for the five-day goodwill visit. The visit includes a series of engagements between the PN personnel and their counterparts such as ship tour, courtesy call to navy leadership, goodwill games and receptions for cultural exchanges. Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy
Illinois suspends Fil-Am doc for ‘improper’ prescriptions Worker’s initiative celebrates one year M a. s of advocacy ahead of Larry Itliong Day by
ariano antos Inquirer.net
CHICAGO – State regulators suspended the license of a Filipino American doctor who allegedly prescribed narcotics improperly to patients he suspected were drug dealers. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations “yanked the license” of Dr. Ernesto Estor Jr., a family physician connected with two medical groups and two Chicago area for allegedly “prescribing more than 569,000 doses of controlled substances over a year and a half,” according to an NBC News report on Oct. 7, Estor reportedly told U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration investigators he had “legit” patients and “west side” patients, but he was “cutting
down on the druggies.” The NBC report also said that the “Estor’s patient records show him prescribing commonly abused opioid painkillers, cough medicine with codeine and sedatives without proper physical exams. A pharmacist raised concerns about Estor’s prescribing in at least one case.” Until recently, Estor was part of a group of physicians at Broadway Medical Group in Chicago’s uptown area and Prima Medicus, LLC., at the city’s northside. He was also known to treat patients at Swedish Covenant Hospital in Chicago and St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, Illinois. He was also a visiting physician employed by several Filipino American-owned home health care providers in
the Chicago area. A graduate of the University of the East Medical School in Metro Manila, he also took residency certification courses in Family Medicine at the University of Illinois in Rockford. His online resume states that he is multilingual, speaking English, Filipino, Vietnamese, Spanish and Polish. Online ratings on quality of medical services gave numerous positive comments on Estor. “Very satisfied,” “excellent bedside manner,” ”very down to earth, nice and comfortable,” “very knowledgeable and helpful,” “I highly recommend Dr. Estor,” are some of his patients’ comments online. NBC News sought comment from Estor’s attorney about the allegations, but its email wasn’t immediately answered. n
told people gathered to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the EMPLEO-Pinoy during the Larry LOS ANGELES – Stephanie Itliong Parade at St. Columban’s Ong couldn’t have anticipated Church on Saturday, October 22. the harsh working environment “This was the first time I’ve talkshe would find herself in after ed to people about this because, travelling to the U.S. from the back then, I didn’t have the courPhilippines for on-the-job train- age to talk.” Her fears echo the struggles ing in the hotel and resort manof workers throughout history agement industry. She was physically and verbal- who suffered abuse at the hands ly abused, given an impossible of their employers and lived in workload, frequently threatened fear of retaliation. Ong’s story with deportation and denied reminded those in attendance overtime pay. After she had been at the public gathering that the injured by a housekeeping cart fight for fair treatment continues that ran over her foot, her su- into the present. Before finding the nerve to tell pervisors said the La Salle University student’s English was too her story in public, Ong reached poor for them to transfer her to a out to the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC). The nonprofit connected non-menial position. When Ong looked in the mir- her to mental health professionror, she could see the evidence of als to help her cope with the trauma she had endured. They her employer’s mistreatment. “I was so skinny, paper thin, also directed her to the services “And they called it a res- and pale like a scavenger,” she of the EMPLEO-Pinoy initiative, cue when the kids were happy, healthy and eating? They were keeping our kids when they were supposed to be in school… by dana sioson That’s a rescue? They were not is ready to fight,” Homo said. AJPress rescuing anybody, it’s a joke,” Pacquiao, expressing that he Matthew said. n TAkING a break from his polit- felt “positive and comfortable,” by eric
anthony Licas AJPress
American couple face trafficking, child abuse…
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the Dwinells couple might have used the children to raise money from foreign donors “for personal gain.” But Matthew said the orphanage raised money to fund the education of the children and
provide them shelter and food. He said the children were free to leave the center as they pleased and with their families’ consent. Now that the orphanage had been closed down, Matthew was worried that the children would not be able to go to school.
which helped her find justice and secure her immigration status. The initiative pairs the Wage and Hour Division (WHD) of the U.S. Department of Labor, the Philippine Consulate, and organizations like the PWC to stop wage theft, employee abuse and child labor and to inform all workers of their rights. “If you are a worker working in the united states, regardless of your immigration status, as a worker you have rights,” said WHD Community Outreach and Resource Planning Specialist, Ralph Valles. “As a partner with EMPLEO-Pinoy Pinoy, the Wage and Hour Division is here to help.” Workers who believe they may be the experiencing unfair working conditions, or employers who are unsure if they are in compliance with labor laws can reach out to EMPLEO-Pinoy by dialing its hotline at (877)-885-6641. n
Pacquiao starts training in LA, ready to face Vargas
ical career, eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao started to focus in his training, as his match against World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion Jessie Vargas on November 5 draws near. Arriving in Los Angeles last week, October 22, Pacquiao’s chief security officer Carlos Homo told Manila Times that the boxing champ did roadwork at the Griffith Park in Hollywood followed by mitts training in the afternoon. “Even under bad weather, my boss is continuously training. He
said he only need four to five days to adjust and acclimatize to the weather in the United States. According to reports from Inquirer, Coach Freddie Roach also believes that Pacquiao was already in shape to face the Fighter of the Decade. The Filipino champ, however, said he would not underestimate Vargas. “I don’t want to underestimate Vargas. I don’t take him easy… I’ll just do my best and prove that I can still fight anybody, Pacquiao told Inquirer.
Last May 2016 elections, Pacquiao won as one of the Philippines’ senators. He promised that boxing won’t interfere with his legislative duties. With the Senate now out of session, Pacquiao can now focus on his boxing training. “Working in the Senate is not easy while you’re training. You manage your time and that’s what I did in training for this fight,” he said. He added, however, that he loves doing both. Pacquiao said he’ll be back in the Philippines on November 7 to resume his legislative duties. “It’s important for me to be there because we will do our budget deliberations,” he noted. n
BACK IN THE RING. Boxing champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao gears up for his fight again Jessie Vargas as he starts the last portion of his training at Roach’s Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California. Pacquiao and Vargas on November 5, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. AJPress photo by Noel Ty
Alice Bulos, ‘Grand Dame of Fil-Am Politics…
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cratic National Convention five times. She was an appointee of President Bill Clinton to the Federal Council on Aging in 1993 and was a delegate to the White House Conference on Aging in 1995. She was also an adviser to several state attorneys general and local elected officials. She was named the 2006 Woman of the Year for California’s 19th Assembly District. In 1972, Bulos resigned as the chairwoman of the University of Santo Tomas sociology department to join her husband, the late Mr. Dony Bulos, in the United States. Together they founded
the Filipino American Grassroots Movement, a voter registration drive designed to involve Filipinos in the political process. Bulos also served as the charter president of the Fil-Am Democratic Club in San Mateo County, the regional chair of the National Filipino American Women’s Network and Board member of the National Asian/Pacific Democratic Council. As an advocate on behalf of underrepresented groups, Bulos chaired the Filipino American Democratic Caucus and was an outspoken advocate for the rights and benefits of Filipino veterans who served during World War II.
She also supported workers at the San Francisco International Airport by helping them unionize. Before her health delined she was a constant presence in community affairs and was also a board member of the San Mateo County Chapters of the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, American Red Cross, Community Initiative on Multiculturalism and the Northern California Disaster Preparedness Network. Bulos is survived by daughter Elizabeth Ramilo, sister Lourdes Reyes and three grandchildren. (Inquirer.net)
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DSWD chief: Foreign aid not yet needed for typhoon victims by Dana
M. SioSon
AJPress
WAITING FOR HELP. More than 700 residents living on the shoreline take refuge on Alcala Gymnasium after pre emptive evacuation due to Supertyphoon Lawin in Alcala town, Cagayan. Three days after supertyphoon “Lawin” struck Cagayan province, local officials and residents were left wondering why they haven’t received foreign government assistance as they struggled to cope with the devastation left by one of the strongest storms to smash into the country. Inquirer.net photo by Richard Reyes
Analyst: Arroyo could help improve PH-US ties if Clinton wins US presidential race by Dana
SioSon AJPress
FoRMER Philippine President and now house Deputy Speaker gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (gMA) could help in boosting the Philippines’ relationship with the united States if former Secretary of State hillary Clinton wins the u.S. presidential election, according to an analyst. Ramon Casiple, a political science professor at the university of the Philippines, suggested on Sunday, october 23, that Arroyo might “play a bigger role” in improving the Philippines’ relations with the u.S. because of her personal ties to the Clintons. “Kung si hillary, of course, may trust na kay gMA iyan dahil kaklase niya ang asawa niya at of course personal sila na magkaibi-
gan (If it’s Hillary, of course, she already trusts GMA, since she’s the classmate of her husband and of course, they’re friends personally).” Casiple said. Casiple pointed out that Arroyo and former President Bill Clinton, hillary’s husband, were classmates at georgetown university in the 1960s and have maintained their communication since. During her hospital arrest in 2013, former President Clinton sent Arroyo a letter in January. he also invited her to talk at his Clinton global Initiative meetings. on the other hand, Arroyo granted Secretary Clinton the Sikatuna award, a recognition given to officials who have rendered notable services in strengthening relations between their country and the Philippines, during an
thE Philippines is not asking for foreign assistance since the government has sufficient funds to cover relief operations for the victims of typhoon “Karen” (international name Sarika) and Super typhoon “lawin” (international name haima), according to Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy taguiwalo. “Mga mahal naming kababayan, kaunting paliwanag po: hindi tayo humihingi ng foreign assistance o donations mula sa ibang bansa para sa Karen o lawin dahil nakitang may sapat na pondo ang gobyerno at mga ahensya nito para saklolohan ang mamamayang apektado (To our fellow countrymen, just a little explanation: we are not asking assistance or donations from other countries for victims of Karen and Lawin because our government and departments have sufficient funds to help the citizens affected),” taguiwalo said in a Facebook post on Sunday, october 23. the DSWD secretary said that Philippines should not be relying on foreign assistance when it can stand in its own feet. Replying to a comment in the post, she said the government acquired a large amount of foreign donations for the victims of Super typhoon Yolanda in 2013. until now, it is not clear
official visit in November 2009. “Arroyo’s relations with the Clintons could help and it is good kasi ang susi naman sa mga relasyon ay iyong may confidence (because the key to good relations is trust and confidence),” Casiple said. last week, President Rodrigo Duterte announced his “separation” from the u.S. in terms of military and economics, which he later clarified as a realignment of an independent foreign policy and not cutting off diplomatic ties with the America. on the other hand, u.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East by Dexter Cabalza Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Inquirer.net Russel warned that Duterte’s “succession of controversial lIKE his one and only sibling, statements” has “created a con- Petronio Rosales Jr. turned out to sternation in a number of coun- be a target. tries.” n the brother of a woman who was shot dead in a jeepney in July was also gunned down by stillunidentified assailants outside a Makati City bar past midnight on Wednesday, oct. 26. the police are looking at a possible connection between the two killings, noting that Rosales had been making follow-ups on the unsolved case of younger
SioSon AJPress
Although China has reportedly agreed to allow Filipino fishermen to fish in Scarborough (Panatag) shoal, a formal written agreement has yet to be signed. According to Kabayan Rep. harry Roque, the Philippines refused to accept China’s choice of words. Roque was with President Rodrigo Duterte in his recent four-day state visit to Beijing last week. “the reason it was not formally announced, and that it was not put in writing, is we don’t want to use the word ‘allow’ or ‘permit,’ because it will [contradict] the hague ruling,” Roque said in a press briefing at the house of Representatives on Wednesday, october 26. last July, the united Nations Arbitral tribunal ruled in favor of the Philippines, stating that the Scarborough Shoal is a traditional and common fishing ground, nulling China’s nine-dash line claim. the China, however, repeatedly refused to accept the ruling, calling it a “mere piece of paper.” “And I understand that is what has kept them from reducing into writing this agreement that would resume the fishing of our fishermen in Scarborough Shoal,” Roques said. Asked how he would phrase the agreement instead, Roque suggested “to recognize that the Philippines and China have had Scarborough Shoal as traditional fishing grounds.”
Philstar.com
Viray
MANIlA — there are about 1.4 million less poor Filipinos in 2015 than in 2009, according to the 2015 Full Year Poverty Statistics released by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on thursday, oct. 27. the NEDA said that the country’s poverty incidence for the whole of 2015 declined significantly from 25.2 percent in 2012 to 21.6 million in 2015. “this has resulted from generally low and stable inflation, improved incomes, and higher employment rates in the period,” the NEDA reported. Data from the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that around one out of five families were poor in 2015. In 2015, a family of five needed around P6,329 per month to meet their minimum basic food needs, the PSA said. to meet their minimum basic
sister lauren Kristel for the past several weeks. Rosales was with a female companion waiting for a car outside Dellherts bar and restaurant at the corner of Yakal and talisay Streets, Barangay San Antonio, when he was shot in the temple by one of the two motorcycle-riding men who approached him at 12:35 a.m. According to the case investigator, Po3 Rolando Villaranda, Rosales was set to return on Friday to london where he and his wife were working. Since arriving in the country
three months ago, Rosales had been checking on the progress of the police investigation into Kristel’s killing, the officer added. he went to the bar on tuesday night, oct. 25 to meet former coworkers, Villaranda said. Around 7 a.m. on July 21, the 26-year-old lauren Kristel was shot twice in the back by a fellow jeepney passenger at the corner of J.P. Rizal and N. garcia (Reposo) streets, also in Makati. A stray bullet grazed the leg of another female passenger. the police report then noted
u PAGE A7
A resident prepares to fish in the waters off Barangay Inhobol in Masinloc, Zambales yesterday. President Duterte said Filipino fisherfolk may be able to return to the China-held Panatag or Scarborough Shoal. Philstar.com photo by Walter Bollozos
“But that might be problematic because that’s borrowing the language of the international tribunal,” he said. however, he assured that China and Philippines both “more or less agree that Filipinos should resume fishing” in the disputed shoal. “I cannot predict when it will happen but we hope soon. It’s now a matter of finding alternative words,” Roque said. Regarding the artificial islands built by China, he remarked that the Philippines do not need to negotiate on its status. “on the artificial islands, the tribunal was very clear, since these artificial islands are built within our EEZ, only the Philippines can build these islands. the translation there is that we own the artificial islands. But when China will actually cease to use these artificial islands as mil-
itary bases, of course, is something that will have to be agreed upon,” Roque said. According to him, the next issue that was needed to be discussed is the contention of territorial claims. “What we need to negotiate henceforth, really, is how to resolve conflicting territorial claims to islands which were not pronounced upon by the tribunal because the tribunal is bereft of jurisdiction on this matter in the first place,” Roque said. last Sunday, october 22, President Duterte remarked that Filipinos might soon be allowed to fish again in Scarborough Shoal. “We’ll just wait for a few more days. We may be able to return to the Scarborough Shoal and our countrymen may be able to fish there again,” the president said in a speech during his visit to typhoon victims in tuguegarao. n
1.4 million less poor Filipinos in 2015 than in 2009 by PatriCia lourDeS
where most of the donations went, stating that many did not receive the benefit from the aid. “Pagsisikapan natin na paghusayin at linisin ang sistema ng relief and assistance distribution nang walang halong pulitika (We will make sure to enhance and clean the system of relief and assistance distribution without the influence of politics),” taguiwalo said. however, she clarified that the government was open to aid and donations, including foreign assistance from “friends” who will not impose conditions in return. In fact, according to Romina Marasigan, the spokesperson for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the ASEAN Coordinating Center for human-
Man seeking justice for sis meets same fate
Disagreement on terms impedes fishing proposal in Scarborough shoal by Dana
DSWD Secretary Judy Taguiwalo.
itarian Assistance (AhA Center), the World health organization (Who) and united Nations Children’s Fund (uNICEF) were on standby to provide help. Also ready to provide assistance once requested are the Philippine Disaster Relief Foundation (PDRF), Doctors Without Borders (MSF), and World Vision. Marasigan added that the united Nations Population Fund (uNFPA) also pledged “dignity and maternity tents” for pregnant and lactating mothers. on Monday, october 24, the Chinese Embassy said in a statement that it donated P50 million for the “disaster relief of farmers and fishermen in the affected regions.” Meanwhile, the Red Cross Society of China said it will also provide “humanitarian aid of $100,000 to the Philippines.” According to the Cagayan provincial disaster risk reduction and management council, four people were killed, 11 injured, while P5.7 billion worth of crops and P433.8 million worth of infrastructure were damaged after Super typhoon lawin struck Northern luzon last Wednesday, october 19. on the other hand, typhoon Karen caused an initial damage of P53 million to the agriculture sector as it hit the Bicol region on Sunday, october 16, according to NDRRMC. n
food and nonfood needs, a family of five needed around P9,064 monthly in 2015. the PSA also reported that 57 out of 1,000 or an estimated 1.3 million families did not have sufficient income to meet their basic food needs. Subsistence incidence covers 81 of 1,000 Filipinos in 2015, the report said. Subsistence incidence refers to the proportion of Filipinos in extreme poverty. “Decrease in poverty incidence was observed in all regions and eased disparities across regions,” the NEDA said. the largest drop incidence was observed in Regions 11 (Davao) and 12 (Soccsksargen) from 2012 to 2015. the National Capital Region recorded the highest poverty threshold in 2015 while the lowest was from Region 4-B (Mimaropa). “If a family lives in NCR, then they will need higher income in NCR compared to other regions,”
the PSA said. Poverty incidence refers to the number of households with an income below the poverty threshold. Poverty threshold, on the other hand, refers to the minimum income required to afford basic food and nonfood needs. the NEDA stressed that the government needs to pay more attention to lagging regions, especially those in Mindanao. “underemployment is still steep among regions with high poverty incidence, signaling low earning capacity of the poor,” the NEDA said. the NEDA’s goal is to reduce poverty to 13 or 15 percent by 2022. this goal will be driven by rural and regional development, and addressing capacity constraints in other sectors. “Improved poverty reduction indicates that goal to eradicate poverty in Philippines is very possible and highly achievable,” NEDA Director Reynaldo Cancio said. n
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Bad apples
AS the saying goes, it only takes one rotten apple to ruin the whole bunch because the decay can quickly spread to the good ones. Such is the case of police officers, whose indiscretion left at least 50 individuals hurt as the dispersal of protestors in front of the United States Embassy in Manila turned violent last Wednesday, October 19. A van, driven by a police officer, repeatedly rammed protesters who gathered near the embassy. The groups that protested were part of the national minority and peasant groups from across the country who came to demand an end to the presence of U.S. troops in the Philippines, and to support President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for an independent foreign policy. The man behind the wheel, PO3 Franklin Kho, and eight other police officers involved in the violent dispersal were relieved from duty by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO). Kho will also be facing criminal charges for serious physical injuries and will be held liable for gross misconduct, particularly violation of existing police operation procedures. Meanwhile, despite valiant efforts by the government to thwart the proliferation illegal drugs in the
country, there are still police personnel who have tested positive for the use of illegal drugs. According to recent reports, 174 police personnel have tested positive for the use of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu. Of that number, 167 are uniformed, while the highest ranking official among those who tested positive is a senior inspector. It is an unpleasant sight to see for officers you expect to uphold the law and apprehend criminals, as the same people the citizenry should be afraid of. It is a betrayal of trust and a degradation of peace and security. At the forefront of these scandals is the 160,000strong Philippine National Police (PNP), the central government unit in charge of ensuring the public’s safety and purging misfits from the streets, and now from its organization. PNP Crime Laboratory director Chief Superintendent Aurelio Trampe Jr. said this figure is alarming. “I think it’s alarming because we are supposed to implement the law and they are violating the law cleaning its ranks. they are supposed to implement,” Trampe said as The government has already implemented a “zero he assured that the organization is committed to tolerance” for rogue cops and encourages a more
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
active civic participation for a more proactive approach in crime deterrence and an effective civilian oversight of the police force. (AJPress)
Pres. Trump or Pres. Clinton? We’ll know in less than 2 weeks IN less than two weeks, we know who will be the 45th President of the United States. Have you mailed out your ballots? Are you voting in precincts near you? Or are you staying home, ranting about the problems that beset the country, yet do nothing? Let me share with you the long and winding road that got us to where we are now — with the right of suffrage — the power to choose the leaders of the nation. Read this and do not take our right and obligation to vote for granted. This is from the White House: One of the most important rights of American citizens is the franchise — the right to vote. Originally under the Constitution, only white male citi-
challenging. The zens over the age of 21 franchise was first were eligible to vote. The Fil-Am extended to African This shameful injustice Americans under the has been corrected and Perspective Fourteenth and Fifvoting rights have been teenth Amendments extended several times to the Constitution, over the course of our passed during the history. Today, citizens Gel SantoS-ReloS Reconstruction peover the age of 18 canriod after the Civil not be denied the right to vote, regardless of race, religion, War. These guaranteed that all male sex, disability, or sexual orientation. citizens, regardless of their race, would However, in every state except North receive equal treatment under the law Dakota, citizens must register to vote, and not be deprived of their rights and laws regarding the registration without due process. The Fifteenth Amendment is specifically dedicated process vary by state. The path to full voting rights for all to protecting the right of all citizens to American citizens was long and often vote, regardless of their race.
For practical purposes, this was not the end of the voting rights struggle for African Americans. Because of widespread discrimination in some states, including the use of poll taxes, grandfather clauses, and literacy tests, African Americans were not assured full voting rights until President Lyndon Baines Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act in 1965. Women were denied the right to vote until 1920, when the Nineteenth Amendment was passed. Prior to that, women had only been able to vote in select states. Federal elections occur every two years, on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Every member
of the House of Representatives and about one-third of the Senate is up for reelection in any given election year. A presidential election is held every fourth year. Vote on or before November 8! Before that, watch Balitang America’s “The Fil-Am Vote 2016” on Saturday, October 29 at 6:15 p.m. with a replay on Sunday, October 30 at 11:15 p.m. on The Filipino Channel. *** 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
Blowing up Obama’s pivot, Scarborough not worth a war An open letter to Filipino-Americans Commentary
Yen Makabenta BEFORE President Duterte’s “separation from America” declaration is reduced to a mere quibble over semantics, I want to call attention to two toughminded US commentaries on the South China Sea dispute that sharply contrast with the oftentimes tender-minded Filipino view of PH-US relations. The two commentaries are: First, “The Philippines Just Blew Up Obama’s Asia Pivot,” Bloomberg, Oct. 21, 2016, by Eli Lake. Lake argues that Duterte’s pivot to China blows up Obama’s pivot to Asia, and he lays the blame entirely on President Obama and his hemming-andhawing foreign policy. Second, “Is Scarborough Shoal Worth a War?” Human Events?,” May 24, 2016, by Patrick J. Buchanan. Buchanan, presidential speechwriter of Richard Nixon, and one-time US presidential candidate, contends that America should not necessarily fight China if China begins to reclaim and militarize Scarborough Shoal. Duterte’s pivot blows up Obama’s pivot Lake, the Bloomberg columnist, posted his commentary soon after President Duterte’s separation remark in Beijing landed on the front pages and newscasts all over the world. Lake’s commentary is striking for squarely laying the blame for the seeming collapse of the Philippine-US relationship on President Obama. I quote his article at length below: “Does anyone remember
President Barack Obama’s pivot to Asia? The plan was to focus diplomatic and military assets in East Asia to contain a rising China. It was one of the reasons Obama said he was shrinking the American footprint in the Middle East. Well, the pivot is failing. On Thursday, Oct. 20, the president of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, announced to an audience at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing a “separation” with the US. “America has lost now,” he said. “And maybe I will also go to Russia to talk to Putin and tell him that there are three of us against the world: China, Philippines and Russia. It’s the only way….” Duterte’s own government appears to have been kept out of the loop about this new alliance. On Friday, Duterte himself said he did not mean to imply that he would cut diplomatic ties with the US…. Regardless, this is a big story. The Philippines has been an important US ally since the beginning of the cold war. What’s more, the Obama administration has invested in the country as part of its pivot to Asia. In 2014 the two countries signed an enhanced defense cooperation agreement. When the Philippines brought a case against China at The Hague over China’s artificial islands in its territorial waters, the US supported the Philippines diplomatically. In July, The Hague’s Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines. This would have been an opportunity for the US to turn the screws on China. But instead the Obama White House encouraged China and the Philippines to resolve the matter themselves after the ruling of the international tribunal. At the end of August, Secretary of State John Kerry told reporters that the US was not interested in “fanning the flames of conflict but rather trying to encourage
the parties to resolve their disputes and claims through the legal process and through diplomacy.” Duterte has now taken Kerry’s advice. After announcing his country’s new alignment with China, Duterte signed a series of trade agreements worth $13.5 billion, along with a promise to continue bilateral negotiations over the South China Sea. Dan Blumenthal, the director of Asia studies at the American Enterprise Institute, told me Friday that the Obama administration had fumbled. “After the tribunal decision, our response was to tell Duterte to tamp down tensions and talk bilaterally with China, and there was no evidence of follow-up by us in terms of our own military exercises or diplomatic initiatives to enforce the findings of the tribunal,” he said. “There has been next to nothing on this. We still haven’t had a Freedom of Navigation mission that actually challenges the Chinese artificial islands.”…. The Obama administration acted as if international law would implement itself. But it never works that way. The rule-based system Obama endorses requires a great power to defend it.” Scarborough not worth a war I will give Buchanan’s piece on Scarborough Shoal equal treatment by quoting it at length here: He wrote: “If China begins to reclaim and militarize Scarborough Shoal, says Philippines President Benigno S. Aquino III, America must fight. Should we back down, says Aquino, the United States will lose “its moral ascendancy, and also the confidence of one of its allies.” And what is Scarborough Shoal? A cluster of rocks and reefs, 123 miles west of Subic Bay, that sits astride the passageway out of the South China Sea into
Mga magiliw na kapatid, kapwa Pilipino: We cannot sit idly by while one person singularly misrepresents the feelings of the people of the Philippines toward America. To the best of our abilities, each of us should do whatever we can about it. Though we, Filipino-Americans, love America, we do not lose our very dear sentiments to, and our memories of, the land of our birth. Our children and grandchildren are Americans. But they do not lose their Filipino ethnicity. There are more than four million of us in America, and we should rise to the occasion. The Philippines is in crisis! The close relationship between the two countries should not be decimated. Without hesitation, I say that there are millions and millions of Filipinos in the Philippines, as well as overseas workers who feel the same. We are aware that there have been shortcomings on the part of the U.S. government toward the Philippines pertaining to trade and commerce, and very particularly, to its immigration policies and the arrogance of consular officials in Manila. And of extreme importance, is the failure of Washington to give ironclad guarantees … as it gave to its allies in Europe, that the Philippines is vital to its interests and would militarily defend the country in the event of violations to its sovereignty. These are a breach of the close relationship, praised as brotherhood forged in battles and sealed in blood. The cemeteries of Filipino and American heroes lie side by side, and by the headquarters of the Philippine Army in Fort Bonifacio. These notwithstanding, Filipinos remained resilient and patient. Washington, however, mismanaged its geopolitical relations with the Philippines. Have they lost a strategically located ally? But we, Filipino-Americans, must nevertheless stand up. We call the attention of the Philippine Army that they are the Army of the u PAGE A7 Philippines … their fellow Filipinos, and NOT the Army of a single
the Pacific, and is well within Manila’s 200-mile exclusive economic zone. Beijing and Manila both claim Scarborough Shoal. But, in June 2013, Chinese ships swarmed and chased off a fleet of Filipino fishing boats and naval vessels. The Filipinos never came back. And now that China has converted Fiery Cross Reef and Mischief Reef into artificial islands with docks and air bases, Beijing seems about to do the same with Scarborough Shoal. “Scarborough is a red line,” says Gregory Poling of the Center for Strategic and International studies. To allow China to occupy and militarize the reef “would clearly change the balance of power.” Really? But before concluding that we must fight to keep China from turning Scarborough Shoal into an island base, there are other considerations. High among them is that the incoming president of the Philippines, starting June 30, is Rodrigo Duterte, no admirer of America, and a populist authoritarian thug who, as Mayor of Davao, presided over the extrajudicial killing of some 1,000 criminals during the 1990s…. In a clash with China, this character would be our ally. Indeed, the rise of Duterte is yet another argument that, when Manila booted us out of Subic Bay at the Cold War’s end, we should have dissolved our mutual security pact…. What vital interest of ours is imperiled by who owns, or occupies, or militarizes Scarborough Shoal? If US rights of passage in the South China Sea are not impeded by Chinese planes or ships, why make Manila’s quarrel with China our quarrel?…. Should Beijing insanely decide to disrupt commercial traffic in that sea, the response is not to send a US carrier strike group to blast their artificial is-
Commentary
attY. JoSé Y. lauchenGco, JR. man, though he may be the president. Conflicts will rise in their breasts between their duty of obedience to the Commander in Chief, against their innate obligation … borne from moral principles and faithful loyalty to the people. The latter must supersede. Their oath is fidelity to the Constitution, not to a single person: To uphold and defend the Constitution against enemies at home and abroad! The same applies to officials of the country, former or incumbent, as they are the grass root leaders of the mass. It is true that the newly elected president won by more than six million votes. But the question arises: Would he have won by that margin if he had been truthful to the people and disclosed that he harbored antipathy toward America? He misrepresented himself, publicly advocating, but without telling how, only the obliteration of overwhelming drug abuse, stopping corruption, and decreasing the high crime rate. Who would not have fallen for that platform? But the masquerade has now unfolded. Where do we, ethnic Filipinos, stand? Ultimately, the citizens of the Philippines will make the decision. Mabuhay! Jose Y. Lauchengco Jr. Attorney-at-Law, Los Angeles, California *** José Lauchengco, Jr., is the attorney who sued an exclusive restaurant to compel acceptance of the Barong as the equal of Western formal attires. He defended Victor Lovely, Jr., an alleged bomber, in the Federal Grand Jury Proceedings when the U.S. Dept. of Justice under the Reagan Administration sought to dismantle the Anti-Marcos Movement in America. He also successfully represented the Government of the Philippines after the EDSA Revolution against Ferdinand & Imelda Marcos, on a pro-bono basis, in a lawsuit to freeze the accounts and other assets of the couple held by a California Bank.
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Aquino seeks dismissal of raps by Vince
F. nonato Inquirer.net
FORMER President Benigno Aquino III has asked the Office of the Ombudsman to dismiss a complaint against him over the controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), saying an earlier Supreme Court decision that outlawed certain budgetary practices was not enough to criminally charge him for graft. In a 28-page counteraffidavit he recently filed, Aquino said his accusers failed to show the actions he committed to warrant prosecution for graft, technical malversation, and usurpation of legislative powers. DAP was a mechanism used by the Department of Budget and Management in 2011 to accelerate spending and boost the economy. But the Supreme Court in 2015 declared that certain budgetary practices under DAP as unconstitutional. These include the crossborder transfer of funds and the declaration of savings before the end of the fiscal year in order to realign them for items not contained in the budget law passed by Congress. Aquino said the Supreme Court’s ruling in the case could not serve as the basis for the DAP case because it only clarified “constitutional boundaries” on budgetary powers. He said the high court’s decision was meant to serve as reference for future budgetary actions and not penalize the officials who implemented the DAP. The ruling “was a pronouncement that clarified in general terms constitutional rules and principles involving the budget. It
Poe insists: No need to reopen Mamasapano probe by Rosette
A
adel
Philstar.com
Former President Benigno Aquino III
cannot be construed as amounting to a specific finding of criminal liability,” Aquino said. Metes and bounds “The Supreme Court merely set out—for future reference— the metes and bounds of the President’s exercise of the power to augment, nothing more,” he said. He argued the SC decision did not touch on the issue of the liabilities of the authors, proponents and implementing of DAP. The complaint also failed to satisfy the elements of each criminal charge, Aquino said. He argued he could not also be held liable for technical malversation under Article 220 of the Revised Penal Code, which prohibits the use of funds for purposes other those than specifically stated in the appropriations law. Aquino said that savings were no longer technically funds “appropriated by law or ordinance,” as they have already ceased be-
ing appropriated for a specific purpose once they are declared to be savings. Lack of understanding “Complainants’ allegation… that I ‘diverted appropriations’ is based on a complete lack of understanding of the difference between ‘appropriations’ and ‘savings,’” Aquino said, adding that he was not an an “accountable officer” who had actual control of the funds as part of his official duty. Congress also did not allocate the funds for the Office of the President, and therefore by their nature could not apply to savings and unprogrammed funds used under DAP. Aquino denied usurping the powers of Congress when he used savings to augment deficient items in the budget. He said this was a function of the executive branch spelled out in the Constitution, which allowed the President some budgetary flexibility. n
Blowing up Obama’s pivot, Scarborough… PAGE A6 t
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2016
lands off the map. Better that we impose a 10 percent tariff on Chinese-made goods, and threaten an embargo of all Chinese goods if they do not stand down. And call on our “allies” to join us in sanctions against China, rather than sit and hold our coat while we fight their wars. This economic action would send China’s economy into a tailspin, and the cost to Americans would not be reckoned in the lives of our best and bravest.” Japan’s dispute with China For the record, Buchanan has also written that there is no vital US interest involved in the Senkaku Islands (Diaoyu islands to China), which are bitterly disputed by China and Japan. If the two countries come to blows, the US should not necessarily fight
for Japan, says Buchanan. It will be interesting to see how President Duterte and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will tackle our respective territorial disputes with China, during Duterte’s three-day visit to Japan this week. Abe and Duterte will hold a bilateral meeting and are expected to discuss bilateral and regional issues. Abe, thinking of the Senkaku islands, will be keen to discuss with our President the sea dispute between the Philippines and China. When the Philippines’ claim to the West Philippine Sea was affirmed by the arbitration tribunal, Japan backed the ruling and urged China to comply. Meanwhile, the biggest military superpower on earth, America, has become just an observer of unfolding events. (ManilaTimes.net)
MANILA – Sen. Grace Poe on Wednesday, Oct. 24 reiterated that there is no need to reopen the investigation of the Mamasapano incident, where around 70 Filipinos, including 44 elite police officers, were killed. “Hindi po kailangan ng hearing,” Poe, who formerly chaired the Public Order and Dangerous Drugs committee that held hearings on Mamasapano, said in an interview with dzMM. Poe said the government should first clarify its intention on the revival of the Mamasapano probe to avoid repetitive discussions. She said President Rodrigo Duterte can ask Philippine National Police deputy chief for operations Director Benjamin Magalong, who led the PNP Board of Inquiry on the incident. PNP Director General Ronald Dela Rosa was also part of the investigation as a member of the Operational Audit Team. “Ano ang gusto nilang malaman na kulang sa aming mga reports? Kasi si General Magalong... Kung hindi man ako, kahit ang Board of Inquiry ni General Magalong sa tingin ko makatotohan na kung ang gusto ng ating pangulo ay malaman kung ano ang nangyari sa reward money at kung ano ang nangyari sa daliri ni Marwan,” Poe said. The PNP is civilian in nature, but officers are often referred to informally by military ranks. “Iyan ang mga bagay na puwedeng malaman ng pangulo sa pamamagitan ng sarili niyang intelligence. Hindi kailangan ng report sapagkat, bilang pangulo meron na siyang direktang access sa PNP intelligence, sa AFP
Around 70 Filipinos, including 44 Philippine National Police-Special Action Force commandos, were killed in a clash with Moro rebels and private armed groups in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on Jan. 25, 2015.
intelligence,” she explained. The senator was reacting to President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent pronouncement that he will order a reopening of the Mamasapano investigation to know what happened. He said he would also like to discover where the $5-million reward for tipsters who helped security forces track down high-profile terrorists went. When asked about the recipient of the reward, Poe explained that her committee used to ask that question initially through an executive session. She narrated that the panel did not ask for the exact name, knowing that sources must be protected but instead just confirmed that there was a recipient. She reiterated Duterte can instead use his powers as the chief executive and ask his subordinates to directly inform him on the case. “Kung ikaw ang pangulo pu-
Man seeking justice for sis… PAGE A5 t
that the victim, a resident of Sta. Ana, Manila, was carrying a bag full of clothes, which her attacker didn’t touch. The .38-cal. pistol used was recovered at the crime scene. PO3 Arnis Ojastro, who handles Lauren Kristel’s case, said Petronio constantly communicated with him and that they last spoke at 5:35 p.m. on Tuesday. The Makati police on Wednes-
day formed the 10-member Task Group Rosales, with Villaranda and Ojastro among the investigators. It is headed by Supt. Angelo Germinal, the assistant police chief for operations; and Chief Insp. Rommel Resurreccion, the investigation section head. Both Villaranda and Ojastro said their strongest lead suggested that the killings stemmed from a property dispute. n
wede mong tanungin. Sino ba iyong asset na iyan, o magkano iyong total na natanggap? Sino ang nagbigay? Tumulong ba ang Amerikano diyan? Iyong laboratory na di umano ay ipinadala na sa Amerika para suriin sa lab. Anu-ano, kailan dinala, sino ang nakatanggap? Lahat iyan, hindi puwedeng itago sa pangulo,” Poe said. “So siguro diretso niyang tanungin at sana nasa kaniya iyon kung gusto niyang isiwalat sa taumbayan, dapat protektahan natin iyong asset na nakakuha ng impormasyon nagsumbong sapagkat maaring balikan siya ng kung sinuman iyan,” she added. Despite her opposition to the president’s statement, Poe admitted it will still be under the prerogative of the new chair of the Senate panel, Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. She said that if ever the case will be reopened, the attention of the case must be focused on the agenda, spare the topics previously discussed and avoid misalignment of issue. “Iyan ay prerogatiba ngayon ng Chairman ng Public Order na dati ako iyong chairman. Ngayon ang chairman niyan ay si Senator Ping, so kung may bagong ebidensya o may bagong maiiprepresinta, sige buksan nila. Wala naman kaming...wala naman dapat itago,” she said. The Senate reopened the inquiry into the Mamasapano incident last January after Sens. Juan Ponce Enrile and Vicente “Tito” Sotto III earlier filed a motion to reopen it. n
A OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
october 28-november 3, 2016
people events arts culture entertainment
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An Asian Journal Magazine
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O c TO b E R 28 , 20 1 6
FilipiNo CuisiNe at NYCWFF, Future oF Food & FaNCY Food shoW by MoMar
G. Visaya/AJPress
The statement ‘New York City is a foodie haven’ is an understatement, and foodies here know that. With tens of thousands of restaurants to choose from, one can eat in a new and different place every day for ten years. Then, depending on the season, there are multiple street fairs across the city and seasonal outdoor markets such as Smorgasburg in Brooklyn. There are also underground and popup dinners. everything is out there, you just have to look. The past couple of months, some of these events featured Filipino ingredients and dishes and celebrated the chefs behind them. We take a look at three of these events. NYC: Future of Food x Meethappy Over the weekend, an event called NYC: Future of Food, happened in Long Island City. The organizers – Meethappy, an internet platform for meetings – partnered with the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce and the NYC Department of Small Business Services to stage the event. The young woman behind Meethappy, Joana Gutierrez, currently the president of entrepreneurship of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce shared the story behind the event. The NYC Department of Small Business Services approached the chamber to help get the word out to the Philippine American community of the resources that the city can provide them. “I noticed that a predominant amount of NYC Philippine American small business owners who approached us for assistance, were food purveyors. I decided to create an event, with the NYC Small Biz objective in mind, with various companies, that serve, or work in cooperation with the food industry,” Gutierrez said. She envisioned it as a onestop shop for food industry entrepreneurs, investors, and service providers to enjoy a meeting of the minds, and leverage all the help that they can collectively provide each other. It attracted more than a hundred foodies, restaurateurs, investors, entrepreneurs, food and lifestyle bloggers who feasted on select cuisine from some of New York’s most delicious establishments. The audience was also treated to a talk by the participants about the delectable advancements of the New York Food and Beverage Industry
and the latest technological innovations and resources that New York has to offer, particularly to anyone wishing to start his or her own food business. A couple of Filipino and Filipino-owned businesses joined the event – Sisig City, the first Filipino food truck in NYC and Artigiani del Gelato, makers of fine artisanal gelato. Filipino-American businesswoman Jaji hagelgans and Mauro Sessarego, Culinary Institute of America Professor are the proud owners of Artigiani del Gelato. Sessarego, who was born and raised in Italy, opened the gelateria in April 2013 with a dream to make gelato like he used to as a boy in Genova. Through the years, they have experimented in ingredients and nowadays, they use nontraditional fruits to create their special sorbets and gelatos. From coconut and calamansi, guava and mango sorbets to ginger, wasabi, green tea and goat cheese and honey gelato. One thing remains constant, the use of traditional Italian recipes which they mix with local and fresh ingredients and they swear by the fact that they don’t use preservatives or chemical ingredients in their products. Manny Imperial talked about Sisig City and how it started, tracing his history in the food business when he was a young boy who saw his parents and their Filipino grocery on Staten Island called Phil-Am Food and the restaurant they opened, PhilAm Kusina. “When people think Asian, they think Chinese, sushi, Thai. My goal is for people to think Filipino food,” Imperial said. At the event, Imperial and his team served longganisa mini-dogs topped with atchara. The Sisig City food truck normally parks in the Williamsburg area, according to Imperial but in the past, they have also parked in areas near the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan. Sisig City was also nominated as Rookie of the Year at this year’s Vendy Awards, the award-giving body that has been honoring the best of New York City’s sidewalk vendors, pushcarts, food trucks and market stall vendors since 2005. The Vendys has been dubbed as “the Oscars of street food” by chef Mario Batali. New York City Wine & Food Festival A paradise for every kind of foodie imaginable, the New York City Wine & Food Festival is now on its ninth year and there’s no stopping them. With over 100 events spread across the city,
Yuji Ramen’s Shio Ramen Ochazuke
NYCWFF has raised over $9.5 million for No Kid hungry and Food Bank of New York City. Food Network and Cooking Channel gathered more than 500 chefs and culinary experts, including the celebrity chefs to help out in the various events. With over 40 venues, there is definitely something for every budget and palate. From sit-down and intimate dinners to walk-around food tasting events and panel discussions, NYCWFF reinforces NYC’s claim as one of the greatest food cities in the world. For barbecue lovers, there’s the Coca-Cola Backyard BBQ hosted by Bobby Flay and Michael Symon, a family-friendly cookout featuring mouthwatering BBQ dishes. There’s also Rooftop Chopped, something new this year, a larger-than-life version of Food Network’s popular competitive cooking series. Another brand new event this year is Lucky Chopsticks: An Asian Night Market hosted by Andrew Zimmern, a celebration of the flavors and diversity of Asian cuisine. The event was held at Metropolitan West, an expansive, two-floor event space filled to the rafters by fans of Asian cuisine as it was the closing out event for the four-day wine and food festival. Among the chefs who showcased their dishes were Dale Talde of Talde and Jordan Andino of 2nd City. Foodies had a great time noshing on dim sum, noodles, sushi, potstickers as they sipped on sake, wine, cocktails and beer. Talde served Singapore Style Rigatoni made of housemade pasta, xo sauce, mussels and Chinese sausage, along with a side of Basil Slaw made of bean sprouts, basil and cilantro. Andino on the other hand served his famous Nice Buns (braised and fried pork belly tossed in a hoisin BBQ glaze in a steamed rice bun with pickles and scallions and Pancit (which he described as a traditional Filipino vermicelli noodles with shrimp, sweet Chinese sausage, cabbage and oyster sauce). James Beard Award-winning culinary adventurer and star of the new show Driven by Food Andrew Zimmern served Black Bean Braised Goat with Thai Sticky Rice (goat braised in fermented black bean sauce and then pulled and served over Thai sticky rice with chili oil and scallion).
Andrew Zimmern served a braised goat dish on top of sticky rice.
Chef Jordan Andino (right) of 2nd City at Lucky Chopsticks: An Asian Night Market hosted by Andrew Zimmern at Metropolitan West on October 16, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Chef Dale Talde and staff at Lucky Chopsticks: An Asian Night Market hosted by Andrew Zimmern at Metropolitan West on October 16, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Robin Marchant/Getty Robin Marchant/Getty Images for NYCWFF) Images for NYCWFF)
Top Chef’s first female winner Stephanie Izard served a couple of delicious and inventive treats: Shrimp Toast (homemade white bread buttered and griddled with a citrusy and lightly spiced shrimp mousse, topped with fermented vegetables and fish sauce aioli) and Octopus Salad (served with pickled cucumbers, fresno chilies, cilantro, mint and a peanut dressing). Izard and Talde were both part of Top Chef Season 4. We had a quick chat with Dale during one of the few downtimes during the event. For the past couple of years, he hosted one of the NYCWFF events – Dale’s Dimsum at Buddakan, where he used to work as a sous chef. “Last year was our last time doing that. We’ll probably host one again next year, when we’ve opened a restaurant on Canal and Bowery,” he shared. Fancy Food show every summer, New York City plays host to the Fancy Food Show, which is now on its 62nd year. One of the largest food shows in the world, the fancy food show boasts of more than 2,500 exhibitors from around the world with 180,000 choices of specialty foods and beverages. Among these exhibitors are US-based companies that distribute Philippine-made products to the various FilipinoAmerican communities across the United States. JFC Corporation, a Los Angeles-based company is one of them. Christine Nera, a FilipinoAmerican businesswoman is a consultant for the company.
Top Chef’s first female winner, Stephanie Izard
Joana Gutierrez of Meethappy with her fellow officers of the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce (from left) Enric Carme, Jennifer Adarna, Ledy Almadin, Jaji Hagelgans and Mike Nierva. Photo by Kayla Tiffany
For the fancy food show, the company brought some of the more famous and recognizable brands in the Philippines such as Purefoods, San Miguel Gold Label, Century and Argentina. “San Miguel Gold Label ice cream has flavors that Filipinos in America now used to love eating when they were still in the Philippines,” Nera said. Among the top five best-selling flavors that they offer are ube keso, sweet corn, mangoes and cream, macapuno ube ripple and halo halo. The company also distributes the well-loved canned goods that Filipinos love to eat, from tuna to corned beef to sardines and meat loaf. “The goal is to widen the distribution of these products and pique the interest of non-Filipinos to try these unique products as well,” Nera added. Then New York Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr. joined the participating Philippine companies and the Philippine Trade and Investment Office in New York (PTIC-NY) to promote native mango and coconut products to the US east Coast and Canada at the Fancy Food Show. Accompanying him were Trade Representative Katrina Banzon and Consul Felipe Carino, director of the economic section. Two companies from the Philippines, Mandaue, Cebubased Profood International Corp. and Butuan City-based Celebes Coconut Corporation, promoted native products that use organic ingredients and are produced
using sustainable practices. Profoods produces dried fruit snacks, such as mango and coconut, and different tropical fruit drinks. Celebes, on the other hand, specializes in producing coconut products such as desiccated coconut, coconut oil, and milk and coconut water. Both companies have made great headways in the US West Coast food market and have partnered with leading wholesalers such as Walmart and Costco in offering their products in mainstream US stores. Consul General De Leon encouraged the participants to continue expanding internationally by promoting products that can compete in different market segments such as in halal or kosher certified markets. he also assured them of the government’s continued support for Philippine products competing globally on a level playing field and internationallyaccepted rules on Fair Trade. Other international participants included Asian country pavilions such as India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea and Thailand. There were also domestic U.S. booths with food offerings from states like Virginia, Kansas and Minnesota. The annual show is organized by the Specialty Food Association, a non-profit trade association with over 3,200 members dedicated to producing, discovering, innovating and marketing foods that are new, unique, and different and are of outstanding quality.
Kylie Verzosa crowned Miss International 2016 by arlo Custodio ManilaTimes.net
The Philippines now has six Miss International titlists with the crowning of the country’s bet Kylie Versoza on Thursday, Oct. 27 in Tokyo, Japan. Versoza’s win comes at the heels of President Rodrigo Duterte’s fruitful visit to Japan. An early favorite, Versoza was ranked No. 5 in the Miss International hot picks in July. Landing at the pageant’s Top 15, the Ateneo De Manila University Business Management graduate confidently said she is prepared to take on the responsibility of Miss International 2016. “Three things come to mind when I think of Miss International – culture, education and international understanding. These three work together to
make the brand of the Miss International Beauty Pageant relevant to the global community and to our time. If I become Miss International 2016, I will devote myself to cultural understanding because I believe that it is with developing in each of us sensitivity to other cultures that we expand our horizons, tolerate difference, and appreciate diversity. All these enable us to achieve international understanding. And I believe I’m prepared to take on this responsibility,” she said. Miss Australia was named first runner-up, with Miss Indonesia, Miss Nicaragua, and Miss USA, placing second, third and fourth runners-up, respectively. Versoza now joins the exclusive club of Gemma Cruz who won in 1964, Aurora Pijuan in 1970, Melanie Marquez in 1979,
Pia Wurtzbach with Marlon Sockinger
Kylie Versoza was crowned Miss International 2016 on Thursday, Oct. 27 in Tokyo, Japan.
Precious Lara Quigaman in 2005, and Bea Rose Santiago in 2013. Shortly after Versoza’s win, Binibining Pilipinas posted the following message for the nation’s latest pride: “Congratulations to the new Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa, besting over 69 other candidates in the pageant
held in Tokyo, Japan. Your journey of finding true beauty and strength is an inspiration to every Filipina; and your advocacy is a shining example of selflessness and true humanity that many should emulate. BPCI is proud to have supported you every step of the way.”
Marlon Stockinger confesses to ‘seeing’ Pia Wurtzbach
CAR racing champion Marlon Stockinger broke his silence on dating rumors and admitted he is “seeing” Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach. “The truth? Let’s put it this way if Pia was here tonight she’d be my date here so yeah obviously we see each other but we just want to
keep it down low pretty much but yeah, I’ve been seeing Pia,” Marlon said in a televised interview during the Star Magic Ball when asked for the real score between them. Although he admitted he feels lucky to have met Pia, Marlon said they also find their situation Continued on Page 5
Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
Some issues and pitfalls in pursuing US citizenship
Not only is their naturalization application denied, but they may be put in removal/deportation because they obtained their (Part 1) green card through fraud or FOR many people, attaining misrepresentation. US citizenship is the final step in • If a person obtained a green achieving their “American Dream.” card through an employer’s After getting a green card, they petition, did the person work for eagerly count off the years until they are finally eligible to apply for that employer at the prevailing wage? Many people obtain their naturalization. However, for some green cards through an employer’s people, applying for citizenship sponsorship (PERM or labor could cause problems, issues, and certification). One requirement even being stripped of their green is a person must work for the card and deported/removed. employer for a reasonable time Applying for citizenship is not after obtaining their green always a simple, straightforward task that a person should handle on card. Some people never really worked for the employer who their own. Instead, they may want petitioned them, or they quit to seek the advice or guidance of working for the employer before an attorney. they adjusted status or get the Here are just some of the green card. If a person is applying many issues or problems a person for naturalization based on an must consider before filing for employment – based green card, naturalization: one of the first questions they • Did the person obtain his or will be asked is whether they ever her green card lawfully? In some worked for the employer. If they situations, people were able to did not, or quit before adjusting obtain their green card, even status, their green card could also though they were not legally entitled to it. For example, a person be in jeopardy. Similarly, if they were being petitioned at a certain was petitioned by a parent as wage (the prevailing wage), but “single,” but they were already were never paid that wage, it “secretly” married. They were able could also result in problems, as to get their green card, and now they may be asked to produce attempt to file for citizenship. In their tax returns and pay stubs, many cases, USCIS digs deep into documenting they were paid the their case, and can discover the secret marriage in connection with wage specified in the petition. • Did the person commit any their naturalization application.
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA (Part 2 of 2) POOR Echo! Her heart broke into a million little pieces. Beauty and light dissolved into darkness for her until nothing held any meaning. Refusing food and drink, Echo grew pale and consumptive and faded away, leaving only her far-off voice in the distance. It is said that Echo haunts the mountains where she answers all who call but only with the last
crime while a green card holder? After obtaining a green card, a person may have been arrested or convicted of a crime, such as shoplifting, domestic violence, DUI, etc. They may have even pled guilty, entered into some form of plea deal and later had the conviction expunged. However, certain crimes could make a person ineligible for citizenship, and may even affect their status as a lawful permanent resident. There have been many cases where a green card holder committed a crime, which “alerted” DHS when they filed for naturalization, resulting in them being placed in removal/deportation proceedings. If a person was ever convicted of certain crimes or pled guilty to those crimes, they are still considered convicted, even if they later had the conviction expunged. As you can see, there are so many issues that could come up in connection with a person’s eligibility for naturalization. In my next article, I will discuss more issues and pitfalls that one may encounter in pursuing his or her US Citizenship. If you have any questions about your past, or eligibility for naturalization, you should definitely seek the advice of an attorney before filing for naturalization. This is because once you file, and USCIS starts digging into your past, you may have dug a
The ‘selfies’ generation idolatry on steroids “Vanity of vanities; ALL IS VANITY.”
—Ecclesiastes
words. Narcissus meanwhile continued to break one hapless heart after another in the most mean spirited away, until one day, one totally aggrieved nymph with her heart shattered, prayed to the powers that be, for vengeance, to inflict punishment on Narcissus
to make him feel the pure pain of unrequited love, to make him feel how it is to give love and have it flung back in his face. Her prayer was heard and in a world of swift and even-handed justice with no lawyers, judges and jury to cloud the issue, appropriate punishment was served.
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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O c TO b E R 28 , 20 1 6
FATHER AND DAUGHTER REUNITE AFTER 40 YEARS OF LIFE-CHANGING CHOICES AND “MISFORTUNES” ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Decades ago, Tatay Rolando left his wife and daughters in the Philippines to seek a better life in the US. After getting his green card, he petitioned his family, except for Anna Lyn (center) who had turned 21, and was left behind. The years that followed became a series of rough twists and turns for Anna Lyn, including being caught attempting to enter the US on a fraudulent visa. After a fraud waiver prepared by another attorney was denied, leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel put together a convincing fraud waiver package that was quickly approved, paving the way for the much-awaited, happy reunion of this family on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – Sunday, October 30 at 6:15 PM (EST/PST) on TFC.
hole for yourself. *** 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 reenactments) is of 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 attorneyclient 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
One day Narcissus chanced upon a pool with water so clear, it looked like a mirror. Bending over to drink, Narcissus saw his own reflection, thought it was a water nymph, and forthwith, was smitten with the image on the pool. He fell in love with the image of himself, hook, line and sinker, not unlike celebrities who read their own press and believe them to be true. But I digress. Narcissus tried to embrace his own reflection in the water but his attempt to touch or kiss his beloved ended in frustration each time. The image in the water dissolved into ripples, disappeared and came back on. Narcissus had to be content just by looking at
the mirror image of himself in the pool, day and night, without ever knowing the joy of touching or being loved in return. He now knew, up close and personal, the excruciating pain of multiple rejections from the same object of his affection. Still he persisted, becoming rooted to the spot by the pool. He now knew how it is to be on the receiving end of rejection. He slowly pined away, losing his youth and beauty and withering away on the same spot by the pool’s edge with Echo still hovering over him and repeating his poignant last word, “Alas!” as he lay dying. As the woodland creatures
prepared to bury his body, Narcissus’ body was nowhere to be found and in its place, stood a flower, bending over the pool, as though admiring itself. Gardeners know this flower as Narcissus. Hence, we call those who exhibit the same folly these days as narcissistic. The irony of it is that others clearly see it for what it is but the afflicted individual is blind to this egocentric flaw in himself, thinking the world revolves around him. In today’s world, there’s opportunity to cash in on this tragic human flaw and use vanity and self-image as hot buttons to sell their wares: beauty products Continued on Page 5
(Advertising Supplement)
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On the PEP Front
People, Events, Places
Nanding & Laura enjoy a second whirl in their first joint birthday fête
BoBBy T. yalong SINCE birth is the window to the chance and all possibilities of a lifetime, there’s nothing more momentous than celebrating it in the midst of friends and relatives… and to make it extra meaningful, commemorate it with a loved one. One’s natal day is an occasion to celebrate birth itself…the joys of life…the challenges having faced…the triumphant assault over impediments… the disappointments being defied… and having had a refreshing start after every fall. According to William Barclay, the enigmatic Scottish author and Divinity Professor, there are two great days in a person’s life: the day we are born and the day we discover why.
Birthday girl Laura Garcia (center in white) with friends
Equally wide-ranged belters Rasmin Diaz and Angel Ram
Birthday celebrants Nanding and Laura
Others believe in “forever” but for some, a “second whirl” offers a better option. For somebody in the status of Fernando “Nanding” Mendez, President and CEO of Fiesta in America and a well-revered community event organizer and
The celebrant-hosts with Monsignor Oscar Aquino
supporter who ardently subscribes to the miracle that tomorrow brings: “Life goes on and the world maintains to revolve heedless of the failures and sufferings among mankind. Live life to the fullest and enjoy it while it lasts!” And for Laura Garcia, a highly
Time to blow the birthday candles
PACCAL 24th Anniversary Gala and Awarding Ceremony souvenir shot
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erudite nursing professional committed to the pursuit of excellence in clinical nursing practice, education, research and leadership, life has a lot to offer and possibilities are infinite. “Why sulk in the dark and dwell into abysmal wretchedness after you fail or get forlorn? I believe that everyone has a perfect match…just like padlocks and keys that were manufactured with even a spare,” she shared. Call it a serendipitous encounter but there’s no denying that fate had it that they would inevitably meet and sing romantic songs together. Last Sunday, October 22, 2016, a joint birthday fete was held at 1600 Broadway on the Square’s Club on the Square Lounge (4th Floor) that celebrated Laura and Nanding’s natal days, October 19 and October 24, respectively. The intimate party, ardently attended by preferred guests closely associated with the birthday celebrants feasted on a hodgepodge of native delicacies, finger foods, and a wide variety of party treats. Spirits, beers, and juices literally overflowed the venue while cocktail tables, lounges, and even the pool table area were fully packed with guests while others enjoyed their own private conversations outside in the open area with a generous view of busy Broadway braving the low temp with high spirited drinks. A party won’t be gauged
Geo Ed Rebucas performs with Dr. Bernie Dela Merced
The Band of Brothers with Boy Diaz
successful without live entertainment. The festive atmosphere attained its skyrocketed-height when upbeat live music pervaded the air. Popular and most in-demand allboy group, The Band of Brothers, initiated a danceable repertoire of Beatles medley followed by Geo Ed Rebucas, Angel Ram, Rasmin Diaz, Miguel Braganza, and Dr. Bernie Dela Merced. If it were held in a much bigger venue, easily, it could have been mistaken for a grand concert event with the all-out performances of world-class Filipino talents that indubitably contributed to the sensational blast of the occasion. Other guests commemorating their birthdays on October were duly acknowledged that made the affair even well- attended: Geo Ed Rebucas, Gloria Cabrera, Sallie Dela Merced, and Manny Mendez’s triplets Leica, Minolta, and Konica (the camera triplets) who are to celebrate theirs on October 27. Incidentally, Fiesta in America’s annual observance of Oktoberfest was simultaneously celebrated with its producers’ birthday bash…no wonder, the obvious
overflow of beer. That day will also be remembered in so many lovely ways for Nanding and Laura had both contributed to an intimate togetherness via an eventful lifetime experience of celebrating their birthdays amid close friends…and witnessed by people who believe in the truest essence of their renewed journey with shared emotion. Although the romantic affiliation is a second whirl for both, their acts, either unguarded or openly, speak more persuasively than what words could possibly express. Like lovebirds (minus the cage) the amiable hosts consistently maintained a closer-than-breath attachment all throughout the party… occasionally detached only at times when some guests insisted on pulling either one for a photo opportunity but instinctively returned into each other’s arm later. Just like in Bing Crosby’s 1960 theme song from the film “High Time,” (although made popular by Frank Sinatra who re-recorded it Continued on Page 6
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Rachelle Ann ready to shine as saigon’s Gigi on Broadway By Ricky Lo Philstar.com
“It’s a dream!” that’s Rachelle Ann Go’s answer when Funfare texted her how she felt about her debut on Broadway, reprising her award-winning role as Gigi in the long-running megahit Cameron Mackintosh musical “Miss saigon.” “the first time I was in New York,” said Rachelle Ann, “I told myself, ‘I want to work here.’ I can’t believe that it’s happening.” It’s another dream come true for Rachelle Ann. she first watched “Miss saigon” during her tween years and she also told herself, “someday, I will be on that show.” that was a few years before she topped the “star For a Night” talent search that paved her way to showbiz. Now playing Fantine in “Les Miz” on London’s West End, the same role that won her Best Performance in a Long-Running West End show from the Broadway World UK last year, Rachelle Ann revived the Gigi character also on West End where another Filipina, Isay Alvarez, originated it more than 25 years ago. Her performance as Gigi won Rachelle Ann Best supporting Actress in a Musical from WhatsOnstage Award.
Rachelle Ann Go as bar girl Gigi in Miss Saigon, the London West End musical she performed in before she took the role of Fantine in “Les Miserables.”
As soon as she finishes her stint on Les Miz, Rachelle Ann will come home to spend Christmas and New Year with her family. then she will fly to New York to start rehearsal for Miss saigon which will run from March 2017 to January 2018. “I will have to rehearse because the musical will have a new cast,” said Rachelle Ann. According to reports, Jon Jon Briones, another Filipino, will reprise his role as the Engineer for which he has also won awards, and Fil-Am actress Eva
Noblezada as Kim. Jon Jon and Lea salonga (who originated Kim on West End in 1989 and played the same role on Broadway) were among the first to congratulate Rachelle Ann. Asked by Funfare what pointers she would give Rachelle Ann, Lea texted “None,” adding, “she should just be her own awesome self and wow the audience that way!” After Broadway, what? Will Rachelle Ann realize her other dream — that is, to play Elphaba in Wicked?
Marlon Stockinger confesses to ‘seeing’...
From Page 2
“difficult” since Pia is fulfilling her duties as Miss Universe in New York City while he flies to the Philippines and is mostly in Europe. “Whenever we get the chance, we make the most out of it,” Marlon said.
Marlon, 25, and Pia, 27, were rumored to be dating after the Miss Universe posted a photo of her and the Filipino-swiss car racer on her Instagram account. Pia also stopped posting photos of her former boyfriend Mikhail Varshavski.
the ‘selfies’ generation... From Page 3
and services, diet pills and machines and illusions of power and beauty, with remarkable merchandising success. selfimprovement is great but only if it comes quietly from the inside out. Pray that both the “once
young” and the young ones don’t fall prey to the trappings of extreme self-absorption that rule the global culture of the present Age of selfies. In biblical times, it was called idolatry. What we have now is IDOLAtRY ON stEROIDs, self-love of biblical proportions. self love taken to extreme,
the two were also seen meeting in Manila when Pia visited the country and both of them posted a photo of their meeting. Pia recently posted Marlon’s photo with the caption “My favorite swiss,” and tagged the champion car race driver. (Philstar.com) is something that might account for much of the social problems affluent societies with only one or two self-absorbed children per family, experience and suffer from today. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
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Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS HOW do we know when our heart is failing? This condition could be in its early stage that the individual may not even have enough symptoms to know he/she has it. And if there are symptoms, even moderate to severe, the diagnosis usually eludes a lay person. In the United States alone, there are about 5.1 million people today who have heart failure. What is heart failure? Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure (CHF), refers to a condition where the heart muscles become too weak to pump enough blood to satisfy the body’s needs. There are two main ventricles of the heart responsible for pumping blood: the right and left ventricles. The right ventricle pumps used blood back to the lungs for oxygenation, while the left pumps oxygenated blood
Is your heart failing? from the lungs to the entire body. CHF does not mean the heart is about to stop or to have a heart attack. It simply means the heart muscles (usually both the right and left) have been weakened and need help. What causes heart failure? The following can cause CHF: coronary heart disease (with blockage of the arteries supplying oxygen and nutrition to the muscles of the heart), actual heart attack, high blood pressure and diseased heart valves (both increase the work of the heart), cardiomyopathy (either due to alcohol abuse, toxic agents, cocaine, and other illegal drugs, or radiation, chemotherapy), viral myocarditis, congenital heart defects, diabetes, thyroid or kidney diseases, blood clots in the lungs, HIV/AIDS, or even a vitamin B deficiency (beriberi) in very poor regions of the world where malnutrition is rampant. Too much vitamin E has been reported to also contribute to heart failure. And so with obesity, which makes
Calendar of Events across
the heart work more. Does sleep apnea cause heart disease? Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — involuntary breath-holding for prolonged and repeated periods while asleep, especially among those who snore — significantly contributes to increased risk for heart attack, high blood pressure (eventually to heart failure), stroke, diabetes, and even cancer. Sleep apnea deprives the person of vital oxygen and the episodes could occur dozens of times in a minute, leading to hypoxia (seriously low level of oxygen), which is bad for all organs. Sudden deaths from sleep apnea have been reported. Once a diagnosis is established by a sleep study, the primary treatment is the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine during sleep for life. The CPAP mask, especially the nasal pillow, is more comfortable than one could imagine, and even “addictive,” providing security and a sense of inner peace. The CPAP could prevent premature deaths.
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Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers in Honolulu Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers perform ‘100 years of song’ at the New Life Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Maestro Ryan, the Philippines’ top composer (“Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika,” Tuwing Umuulan” and more) presents his handpicked vocal group singing his arrangements and beloved hits. Contact Honolulu Broadway Babies for information (808) 783-2296. New Life Theatre is at 1190 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96817.
Filipino American Tarlac Association hosts anniversary dinner dance in Baldwin Park, CA
The Fil-Am Tarlac Association has announced an anniversary celebration with a dinner dance on Friday, October 28. For more information, please contact Cheody at (714) 2343330; Tessie Lightholder at (909) 576-4152; or Josie Opinaldo at (562) 671-1940. The dinner dance will be at 6 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott, 14635 Baldwin Park Towne Center, Baldwin Park, CA 91706.
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Friend Day Sunday in Daly City Everyone is invited to Friend Day on Sunday, October 30 at 10:00 a.m. at Harvest Baptist Church. Lunch and nursery will be provided. The Church is located at 92 Hill St. Daly City, CA 94014. For more Information, please call Pastor Win Pechardo at (650) 296-0922.
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Consular outreach in Orlando, 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 Orlando on Saturday and Sunday, October 5 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Services offered include: Philippine passport applications; legalization of documents (acknowledgment, authentication, etc.); and receipt of reports of birth, marriage and death; and administration of oath of allegiance for dual citizenship. For an appointment, please email consular@philippineusa. org and indicate “Orlando FL Outreach” in the subject line. In the body of the email, indicate the complete name(s) of the applicant(s) and the corresponding service(s) required by each application. The outreach will be held at Hilton Garden Inn Orlando at Seaworld, 6850 Westwood Blvd. Orlando, FL 32821.
Rising Tohoku Food Fair in Torrance, CA The Rising Tohoku Food Fair hosted by Mitsuwa Marketplace presents two full days of food and cultural festivities to celebrate the charms of the Tohoku region in Northeast Japan, which can be enjoyed by children and adults. In addition to presenting diverse and flavorful food products originating from the 6 prefectures of Tohoku, there will be a variety of paper craft activity workshops for families such as, coloring, origami, making hanagasa ornaments which can be used as fans, and writing wishes on tanzaku paper, in addition to city-specific dance performances and photo opportunities with city mascots. Mitsuwa Marketplace Torrance Store, 21515 Western Ave, Torrance, CA 90501. Fair hours are 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. daily. The full schedule of dance and festival presentations, crafts workshops, photo sessions with mascots and food fair can be found at: http://www.mitsuwa.com/locations/torrance For more information, call 310.782.0335.
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University of Baguio High School 40th anniversary in Chino Hills, CA Come join us in celebrating University of Baguio High School’s 40th Anniversary on Saturday, November 12 in Chino Hills, California. For more information please contact, Romy Vidal at (951) 733-7140.
Hyatt Baguio/Manila/Palawan Reunion in Las Vegas Former and current employees and guests of Hyatt Terraces Baguio, Hyatt Manila and Hyatt Palawan are having a dinner/dance reunion on November 12 in at the Hampton Inn Tropicana in Las Vegas. The address is 4975 Dean Martin Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89118. For more details, please send an email to: Beng Paraguas-Flores (Hyatt Terraces Baguio) at bengparaguasflores@gmail.com or Marian Nobleza (Hyatt Terraces Baguio) at minobleza@ yahoo.com.
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Consular outreach mission in Pensacola, 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, November 19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Services offered include: Philippine passport applications; legalization of documents (acknowledgment, authentication, etc.); and receipt of reports of birth, marriage and death; and administration of oath of allegiance for dual citizenship. For an appointment, please email consular@philippineusa.org and indicate “Pensacola FL Outreach” in the subject line. In the body of the email, indicate the complete name(s) of the applicant(s) and the corresponding service(s) required by each application. The outreach will be held at the Fil-Am Community Center at 234 West Oakfield Road, Pensacola, FL
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What are the signs and symptoms of CHF? These usually include shortness of breath, especially when they lie flat (with impairment of sleep as a result), dry hacking cough or wheezing, distended neck veins, extreme fatigue, leg swelling, ascites (abdominal fluid formation from swollen liver and other organs), and in severe cases, anasarca (total body swelling), bloating stomach, poor urine output, and weight gain from retained fluid. The nail beds and tips of the fingers might be bluish from lack of oxygen. Loss of appetite and nausea, dizziness, and rapid or irregular heartbeats may also be present. Is there a cure for CHF? In general, heart failure has no cure. The exception is the CHF caused by coronary heart blockage or heart valve disease, where surgery could dramatically tame the heart failure. Basically, the regimen is aimed at managing the associated diseases and the symptoms to make the patient comfortable, improve the quality of life and allow the patient to be active again, or even productive once more. The role of prevention is essential. What then is the treatment? While it is not achievable yet to cure CHF to the point of normalcy of the heart, the main aim of the therapy is to improve
the quality of life and endurance of the patient. The strategy includes treating the primary cause and the contributing illnesses (those listed above), low-salt diet, and use of specific medications to eliminate the excess fluid in the body and minimize the cardiac and lung overload, lessening the work of the heart and boosting the strength of the heart muscles and improve overall cardiac output. Sleeping with elevation of the upper part of the body on several pillows or elevating the head of the bed helps the patient breath better. Bed rest and oxygen are prescribed as needed. What is the role of prevention? Avoidance of the causes, if possible, is obviously the key. Abstinence from cigarettes, alcohol, and other toxic agents, low-salt diet (since salt intake makes the body retain fluids and increases blood pressure), fluid restriction, compliance with medications, regular medical follow-up, and shifting to a healthy lifestyle would greatly help. The patient and family members may also benefit from professional counseling to reduce the fear, anxiety, stress, depression that could adversely affect all of them. Joining a patient support group of peers could provide emotional support and help the patient adjust to his life with heart failure.
Does surgery have a role? As stated above, coronary bypass to correct the heart blockages and prevent heart attack, and surgery to repair diseased heart valves, can significantly improve cardiac recovery. But as heart failure worsens, the standard treatment outlined above may no longer help. If the patient’s heart rhythm is disrupted, a cardiac pacemaker may be installed. For life-threatening arrhythmias, an automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (AICD) may be implanted. Left ventricular restoration/remodeling, mechanical pump called left ventricular assist device, or even heart transplant, when the patient is deemed a qualified candidate for any of those procedures, may be done as a life-saving measure for end-stage heart failure where all other treatments have failed. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com
Trump vote’ costs PH bet Miss Grand Int’l crown by Arlo Custodio ManilaTimes.net
EVEN beauty pageants have caught America’s election fever with the final question to Miss Grand International 2016 hinged on the fight between Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump. Held Tuesday, Oct. 25, in Las Vegas, Nevada, the three-year-old beauty tilt from Thailand carried the theme, “Stop the War and Violence,” and asked the top five finalists: “If given the chance to choose between the two to stop the war, will it be Donald Trump or Hilary Clinton [for you]?” The Philippine representative Miss Grand International Philippines Nicole Cordoves Nicole Cordoves was booed for choosing Trump, and her answer was seen by many to have cost her the crown. She placed first runnerup to Indonesia’s Ariska Putri Pertiwi, who picked the former secretary of state and senator. Cordoves explained choosing Trump by saying, “What if we actually use his voice to do good? Let Donald Trump switch to our side to stop the war and violence.” Pertiwi, meanwhile, said she can see herself working with Clinton guided by the Miss Grand International creed “to help solve atrocities around the world.” Miss USA also picked Trump as her president and finished 4th runner-up, following Miss Thailand and Miss Puerto Rico as 2nd and Miss Philippines and Miss Indonesia hold hands with bated breath asthey await the Continued on Page 7 announcement on whom will win the crown.
Karel Marquez tells love story through spoken-word poetry in pre-wedding film By rosette
Adel
Philstar.com
ACTRESS-SINGER and former VJ Karel Marquez and her fiancé businessman, Sean Fariñas, created another #weddinggoals after releasing their unusual pre-wedding film. The couple chose to announce the date of their wedding by sharing their love story through Tagalog spoken-word poetry. Karel voiced out the poetry while both of them starred in the heartwarming film. “Through my journey of finding you, I found me. The journey of finding your equal starts with one step. It is a long road but it is all worth it in the end. Let us tell you this story through Tagalog spoken word poetry,” the video introduction read. The save-the-date pre-wedding video titled “Nagsimula” was produced by Treehouse Story. It
Karel Marquez and fiancé Sean Fariñas are set to get married on Dec.1, 2016.
was mostly set on a beach-side in Bataan where the couple also held their pre-nuptial shoot. Soon-to-be bride Karel took to Instagram to share the teaser and later on snippets of the pre-
wedding film, which she said made her cry. Karel and Sean got engaged last May. They are set to tie the knot on December 1 this year, after being a couple since 2012.
Nanding & Laura enjoy a second whirl... From Page 4 4 months after its original release), its lyrics (by Sammy Cahn) could have seemingly been written intentionally for Nanding and Laura. Take a minute and ponder on the very essence of the prolific utterances that went: “Love is lovelier, the second time around Just as wonderful with both feet on the ground
It’s that second time you hear your love song Makes you think perhaps that love, like youth, is wasted on the young… “Love’s more comfortable the second time you fall… Like a friendly home the second time you call Who can say what brought us to this miracle we’ve found? There are those who’ll bet love comes but once, and yet…
I’m so glad we met the second time around.” For God gave us the gift of life…then it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living it well with the one we love…for, after all, all what we remember are only the greatest moments that transpired and not the ordinary passing days that had been. For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.
Ph tourism highlighted during Filipino-American history Month
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Celebration with Apl.de.ap at Times Square NeW YORK—Musical icon Filipino-American rapper Apl.de.Ap, in support of Filipino-American history Month this October, jointly hosted an afternoon reception with the Philippine Consulate General New York and the Philippine Department of Tourism New York (PDOT NY) held at the Viacom corporate headquarters building in Times Square, which hosts popular entertainment media brands as MTV, Nickelodeon, and Vh1. The Philippine Consulate General, led by Consul Felipe Carino III, Acting head of Post, and the PDOT-NY, led by Officer-in-Charge Consul Felipe Carino, Acting Head of Post, (left) and Trade Representative Katrina Banzon Zeny Pallugna, participated in (right) together with a guest at the reception the event that attracted over a hundred Filipino-Americans, media practitioners, and mainstream American guests. The event is a brainchild of Apl.de.Ap and PDOT NY to boost tourism efforts in American mainstream market. During the reception, the guests were invited to sample local Philippine food products such as dried papaya, dried coconut, and banana chips, as well as Calamansi drink. The main program featured Filipino-American musician Apl. de.Ap of the popular Black eyed Peas band, who presented to the audience a travel documentary short by his group, referred to as “24 Top Influencers,” relating their experience while visiting destination spots in the Philippines such as Boracay and Bohol. The Guests sample some Philippine candy such as dried papaya, dried coconut and dried Influencers where chosen by Apl. banana.
Distinguished teachers to be honored The United Federation of Fil-Am educators (UNIFFIeD) is having a big event on Saturday, October 29th, at the Ramada Plaza hotel, 160 Frontage Road, Newark, NJ 07114. It will be from 2:00 to 6:00 pm with registration from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. The event will mark for the second time the recognition and awarding of the Most Influential Teachers of 2016. Teachers are the second most influential in the life of a child, if not the first in some cases. Together with the influential teachers, UNIFFIeD, is also honoring the 9 Gawad Tanging Guro ng Taon na May Layunin (Distinguished Teachers of the Year with a Purpose). These are
the teachers who not only excel academically but have also devoted a part of their lives to giving back to the community in the Philippines by initiating or sponsoring projects to benefit the school, the community, the students in a particular place, or the mothers in the community. The projects benefit the people and in the long run will go from one generation to the next. Among the 9 awardees, one will be selected as the ultimate project, the best, and the initiator will be called Dakilang Guro of 2016 (Most Distinguished Teacher of the Year with a Purpose) and will be awarded a plaque, a certificate and cash prize of $1000.00. The
winner has a choice of using the money to enhance the project or whatever he/she wishes to do with it. The guests will be coming from the embassy in Washington, DC, namely; Ms. Petrona Bergado of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and Mr. Saul de Vries, Labor Attache. The guest speaker is a professor of medicine from Rutgers University in New Jersey and the board chair of PAFCOM, Dr. Constancia Uy, a doctor of Pediatrics. UNIFFIeD is inviting everyone to join the celebration in connection with the Philippine- American heritage Month this October.
Trump vote’ costs PH bet Miss Grand Int’l... From Page 6 3rd runners-up, respectively. Despite missing the title by a hair, the Philippines has seen a successful run in the Thailandbased beauty contest, which started in 2013. In its debut Apl.de.Ap performs some of his Tagalog and English songs together Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas presents to the audience his with Filipino-American singer Jessica Reynoso. documentary short on his team’s visit to the Philippines, promoting the edition, the Philippines placed 3rd runner-up via Annalie Forbes to nation’s tourist destinations. Puerto Rico’s Janelee Chaparro. de.Ap based on their significant coming Filipino-American singer the positive word to the public In 2015, Filipina Parul Shah impact on the arts, music, social Jessica Reynoso. Also on hand about the Philippines’ beautiful also placed third to Dominican media and popular culture among destinations and participate in to support the event was Rachel today’s millennial generation. Grant, Filipina-British actress/model Republic’s Anea Garcia who tourism promotion efforts. later resigned as Miss Grand During his presentation, Apl.de.Ap who appeared in the James Bond Apl.de.Ap later performed International, with Australia’s encouraged the Filipino-American some of his Tagalog and english film “Die Another Day” starring community to continue to spread Pierce Brosnan. songs, together with up-andClaire Parker assuming the title.
Miss Grand International was created by Thai TV host/producer Nawat Itsaragrisil to promote tourism in the Southeast Asian kingdom, as well as advocating peace in the region. A total of 75 candidates from around the world participated in this year’s contest. Meanwhile, Tuesday marked the first time for an Indonesian candidate to win a worldwide beauty pageant. Before then, its most notable finish in a long time was as 2nd runner-up in 2015’s Miss World.
Miss Indonesia was also proclaimed Best in National Costume, Miss Bahamas Best in Swimsuit, the Korean candidate as Miss Popularity, and Miss Jamaica Best Social Media. The rest of the 10 finalists were comprised of Misses Korea, Peru, Ukraine, Macau and Bahamas. Completing the Top 20 quarterfinalists were the contestants from Spain, Mexico, Portugal, Venezuela, Malaysia, Cuba, Australia, Vietnam, Tahiti and Wales.
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