New York & New Jersey -- August 12 -- 16, 2016

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Volume 9 – Issue 46 • 20 Pages

AUGUST 12-18, 2016 Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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Duterte apologizes to Sereno: ‘Harsh words never intended’ by anthony

Q. ESGuErra

Inquirer.net

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and President Rodrigo Duterte

PresIDeNt Duterte on thursday, Aug. 11 apologized to Chief Justice maria Lourdes sereno, days after sharply rebuking the chief magistrate for questioning his list of judges allegedly involved in illegal drugs. “I apologize to the chief justice for the harsh words which [were] never intended,” Duterte said in a televised press conference.

“Ako kasi because of the magnitude of the problem, it is my way of solving my problem within the ambit of my powers as President,” he added. Warning of a possible constitutional crisis, sereno, in a letter, reminded the President of separation powers in the constitutions. sereno also questioned the intelligence report that linked the judges to illegal drug trade in the country. she cautioned the judges from turning themselves in to police cus-

tody, reminding them that only the supreme Court has the sole authority to discipline them. “It would matter greatly to our sense of constitutional order if we were given the chance to administer the appropriate preventive measures without the complications of a premature public announcement,” sereno said in the four-page letter. But Duterte lashed back at sereno with a threat of declaring martial law. “I’m giving you a warning. Don’t

create a crisis because I will order everybody in the executive department not to honor you,” Duterte said. “Please do not, you say, create a constitutional issue. there will be. Don’t order me, I’m telling you. I hope you are listening,” he added. Duterte reiterated that he was just doing his duty to inform the public of the condition of their society when he announced the personalities, including the judges, who allegedly involved in the drug trade. n

Duterte refuses to apologize for his ‘gay’ remarks on golDberg

Despite ‘tirades’ with ambassador, president reiterates PH-US alliance

their ambassador because they were true anyway,” he said in a mix of Bisaya and english during PresIDeNt rodrigo Duterte his speech at the 1st Infantry Direfused to apologize for his ‘un- vision in Labangan on Wednesdiplomatic’ remarks against day, August 10, in Zamboanga United states Ambassador to del sur. “simply the truth at the time the Philippines Philip Goldberg, reiterating that the latter should of election. Why would he give not have meddled in Philippine a statement when the election is going on?” politics. Duterte pointed out that Gold“Just ignore my tirade against by Dana

SioSon AJPress

DATELINE

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

arum: pacquiao vs mayweather rematch possible If filipino boxing champion and now sen. manny Pacquiao succeeds in his return fight in November, he’ll most likely have two more major matches in 2017, his long-time boxing promoter Bob Arum said on Wednesday, August 10. Pacquiao could be pitched against WBC junior welterweight titleholder terence Crawford, and even have a rematch with floyd mayweather Jr., according to Arum. “If he wins this fight, we have the idea for a couple of big fights next year. And I think that will end his career with two more fights in 2017,” Arum told reporters. “Crawford is a possibility, and who knows, mayweather may be a possibility.

berg should not have meddled into Philippine politics. “You (Goldberg) should not have meddled. that is our business. It was the campaign season.” the “statements” the president was referring to were the ones Goldberg made after Duterte attempted to make a joke about the 1989 case of an Australian

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Filipinos respond to Trump’s statements suggesting immigration ban for Philippines by MoMar

G. ViSaya, chriStina M. oriEL KLarizE MEDEniLLa

anD

AJPress

fILIPINos everywhere are reacting to Donald trump’s comments that suggested a ban on immigration from areas with high rates of terrorism, including the Philippines. At a rally on thursday, August 4 in Portland, maine, the republican presidential nominee once again criticized the United states immigration system for what he believes is its leniency, allowing terrorists to enter the country. he proposed that immigrants from several many countries should be heavily scrutinized, even those who obtained citizenship legally. he named a number of alleged cases of naturalized

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Hidilyn Diaz flaunts her silver medal from the Olympic games in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Prior to leaving for Brazil, Diaz had hinted the Rio Olympics could be her last hurrah. But after breaking the Philippines’ 20-year medal drought, she’s now determined to return to the gym and go for the top prize four years from now in Tokyo. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV

Diaz’s silver medal shines over Team Philippines’ rocky start Filipina weightlifter bags 1st medal for PH in 20 years

the 25-year-old weightlifter had earned some buzz coming into her third olympic appearfILIPINA hidilyn Diaz over- ance thanks to notable perforcame her doubts to claim sil- mances on the professional liftver in the women’s 53kg divi- ing circuit. however, Chinese sion weightlifting contest on taipei’s hsu shu-Ching and sunday, August 7 at the 2016 China’s Li Yajun were strongly olympic games in rio, winning favored to win sunday’s tournathe Philippines’ first medal ment. they recorded the heavisince 1996. est lifts for the competition’s first by Eric

anthony LicaS AJPress

event, the snatch, according to CNN. “Discouraged ako (I was discouraged),” admitted Diaz, who had been tied with Korea’s Yoon Jin-hee for fourthplace behind Latvia’s rebeka Kohn after the first portion of sunday’s contest. “Pero sabi ng coach ko na wala na kam-

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Vice Pres. Leni Robredo keynotes the 12th National Marcos to receive hero’s burial US think tank: Satellite Federation of Filipino American Associations D S images show China’s (NaFFAA) empowerment conference in Philadelphia u PAGE A5

by

reinforced jet hangars in the South China Sea

WhILe a recent United Nations arbitral ruled in favor the Philippines’ claims in the south China sea, recent satellite images showed by a Washington-based research organization revealed that China appears to be building at least two dozen hardened concrete hangars suitable for housing Chinese air force planes on its reclaimed islands. the photos — taken in June and July, were collected by Washington-based research organization the Center for strategic and International studies (CsIs) — illustrate the construction at fiery Cross, subic and mischief reefs. there were no military aircraft seen at

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(Left photo) Vice President Leni Robredo giving the keynote message at the 12th NaFFAA Empowerment Conference in the Radisson Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Right photo) New York Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr. introduces Vice President Robredo to the audience.(Bottom photo) Vice President Robredo together with Dr. Aida Rivera, Chairman, NaFFAA Host Committee; Mdme. Eleanor De Leon; Consul General De Leon; and Atty. JT Mallonga, NaFFAA National Chair. Photos by Boyet Loverita

GreAter PhILADeLPhIA, PA — Vice President maria Leonor “Leni” Gerona robredo was warmly welcomed by the U.s. filipino community during her first official visit to the United states. Upon invitation of the National federation of filipino American Associations (NaffAA), she keynoted the federation’s 12th empowerment Conference held in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. VP robredo arrived at the Philadelphia International Airport on friday, August 5, where she was met by New York Consul General mario L. De Leon, Jr. and Chargé d’affairés Patrick A. Chuasoto of the Philippine embassy in Washington, D.C. At the radisson hotel in King of Prussia, PA, where she stayed, the Vice President was welcomed by officials of the Philippine Consulate General in New York led by Consul felipe Carino, Katrina Banzon of the Philippine trade and Investment office (PtICNY), Zeny Pallugna of the Philippine Depart-

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ana ioSon AJPress

PresIDeNt rodrigo Duterte on sunday, August 7, approved the plan to bury former president and dictator ferdinand marcos at the heroes’ Cemetery (Libingan ng mga Bayani) next month — a move that has angered several local politicians and human rights groups. Built in 1947, the heroes’ Cemetery was established to pay tribute to filipino soldiers and fallen heroes, former Philippine presidents, war veterans, notable government statesmen, dignitaries and national artists. Duterte argued that as former president and a soldier, marcos is qualified to be buried at the heroes’ Cemetery. since his death in 1989, mar-

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AUGUST 12-18, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

FEATURED. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is currently featuring the Philippines’s Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in 360-degree immersive experience, state news reported. The initiative, led by Prince Albert II, is meant to raise awareness on the issue of sea turtles. Early this April, the Prince of Monaco visited the Philippines and was welcomed with a luncheon in Malacañang. His trip included a visit to the UN World Heritage Site, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Philstar.com photo

Diaz’s silver medal shines over…

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ing magagawa; Sa clean and jerk ako bumawi (but my coach told me there’s nothing left to do; just recover for the clean and jerk).” Hsu would go on to win gold, but Li wound up hyperextending her left elbow in the second half of the competition while attempting to lift 123kg (271.17lb). Li’s injury prevented her from finishing the tournament. That opened up the path to the podium for Diaz and Yoon. The Filipina went on to clean and jerk 112kg (246.92lb), besting Yoon by a

single kilogram and Kohn by 5. A steady path of progress Don’t ask Diaz for any shortcuts to strength or success — she took the long route. The competitive weightlifter persevered for years before claiming her spot in history during this year’s games. She had been training since the age of 11 before placing second to last in her Olympic debut at the 2008 games in Beijing. She aimed for a personal best during London’s 2012 games and managed to hoist 97kg (213.85lb) over her head in a single motion.

However, after three attempts, she failed to pull off a 118kg (260.15lb) clean and jerk and left the games with an official score of DNF (did not finish). Rather than succumb to defeat, Diaz grew from her setbacks. Long sessions at her gym in Zamboanga and the decision to drop down from the 58kg division to 53kg paid off. “Ginawa ko yung best para sa country (I did the best I could for my country),” Diaz told CNN. “Yun lang talaga yung goal …

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Filipinos respond to Trump’s statements…

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immigrants who he said had committed or were plotting acts of terrorism. He described the system as a “Trojan horse” that allows terrorists to easily come to the country, without being thoroughly vetted. In one instance, he alluded to the case of Sohiel Omar Kabir and Ralph Deleon, two immigrants living in Ontario, California who were both sentenced to 25 years in prison for a terrorist plot to join Al Qaeda. “An immigrant from Afghanistan, who later applied for and received U.S. citizenship, and a

legal permanent resident from the Philippines were convicted for planning to join Al Qaeda and the Taliban in order to kill as many Americans as possible,” Trump said during the rally. Deleon, a Philippine citizen, was found guilty of conspiring to provide materials and support to Al Qaeda, to travel to Afghanistan to receive training from the terrorist organization and to commit murder, kidnapping, or maiming overseas. The FBI had called the case an example of “homegrown” terrorism in which the suspects were influenced by ISIS.

Immigrants from other “terrorist nations” Trump mentioned include Morocco, Uzbekistan, Syria, Somalia, Iraq, Pakistan and Yemen. Initial reports following the real estate billionaire’s speech said that he called immigrants “animals.” However, he was referring to the terrorists he was naming. “An immigrant from Syria, who later applied and received United States citizenship, was accused by federal prosecutors for planning to go to American military base in Texas and kill three or

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From the Front Page

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 12-18, 2016

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Diaz’s silver medal shines over…

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MARIJUANA FARM. Lawmen on Wednesday, Aug. 10 uprooted 450 marijuana shrubs in a hinterland barangay in Tiboli town in South Cotabato, discovered by villagers who led policemen and soldiers to the hidden plantation. The operation was carried out by combined personnel of the Tiboli municipal police and the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, led by 1Lt. James Martinez. The raiding team had also arrested the 71-year-old caretaker of the marijuana farm, Subang Suken Tanam, an ethnic Tiboli tribesman. Philstar.com photo

Vice Pres. Leni Robredo keynotes the… PAGE A1 t

ment of Tourism in New York (PDOT-NY), and Michael Azucena of PAG-IBIG Fund. NaFFAA leaders led by Chair of the Conference, Dr. Aida and Rommel Rivera, NaFFAA National Chair, Atty. JT Mallonga, and co-Chair of the Conference, Brad Baldia, were also part of the welcoming party. During the opening plenary session of the Conference on August 5, Consul General De Leon conveyed the goals and aspirations of US Foreign Service Posts for NaFFAA in a session entitled “Envisioning the Future of Filipino Americans through the Lens of our Shared History.” Also participating in the panel were philanthropist and community leader Loida Nicholas Lewis, NaFFAA National Chair JT Mallonga, and NaFFAA National Vice Chair Emraida Kira. Consul General De Leon remarked how the NaFFAA Empowerment Conference was an opportune time for the FilipinoAmerican community to come together and discuss pressing issues and initiatives that impact the lives of the estimated 3.4 million Filipino-Americans living in the U.S. He also discussed how the leadership changes in both

the Philippines and the U.S. have created new opportunities to enhance bilateral engagements between the two countries, all of which coincide with the 70th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the United States. He commended NaFFAA for its initiatives to promote civic engagement and its efforts in transforming the Filipino-American community into a cohesive political constituency. He further noted how there were also more registered Filipino-American voters who casted their ballots in the May 2016 Philippine national election than previous elections, and underscored that the Fil-Am vote was among the very few overseas voters’ groups that secured Robredo’s Vice Presidency. Among NaFFAA’s primary advocacies is Fil-Am Vote. The Consul General reminded the NaFFAA delegates to continue lobbying for the Filipino community’s interests with US elected officials. In particular, he cited the urgency of working with US representatives to co-sponsor the Congressional Gold Medal Bill for the Filipino World War II Veterans to secure its passage. He thanked Representative Bob-

Marcos to receive hero’s…

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cos’s remains have been frozen in a glass coffin in his hometown of Batac, Ilocos Norte. “Marcos was a president and, as a matter of fact, I voted for him,” Duterte said at a news conference in Davao on Sunday. The president said that those buried at the cemetery were not all heroes. He added that he would leave it up to the military whether to bestow the former president full funeral honors or not. According to Duterte, he would allow street protests as long as traffic and motorists are not inconvenienced. “He is qualified to be buried there. Kung ayaw ng ibang Pilipino (If other Filipinos are against it), fine,” he said. “Magdemonstrate kayo (You can demonstrate), go ahead. You can use the streets.” Stiff opposition Former President Benigno Aquino III, Vice President Leni Robredo, several members of the Senate, left-wing activists, and claimed victims of human rights abuses during the Marcos regime were in unison as they expressed their opposition to the recent executive order. “We strongly oppose the decision to bury former President Ferdinand Marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bayani,” Robredo said in a released statement. The vice president pointed out that Marcos “plundered our country and was responsible for the death and disappearance of many Filipinos,” she said. Furthermore, she argued that the decision will not bring unity but “will only deepen the unhealed wounds of the survivors and family members of victims of the terrible years under [the] Marcos presidency,” citing the alleged ill-gotten wealth of the Marcoses and their cronies. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano also didn’t agree with the president regarding the issue. “Well, you know, I see the point of the President that if it’s completely legal issue, he’s entitled to it. But the name of the cemetery is Cemetery for Heroes, and we do not consider him [a hero.] He had heroic moments during his life. But we do not consider it totality heroic because of the things that happened in martial law,” Cayetano told Rappler. “Unless we change the name to Cemetery of Heroes and Dictators, then we would not have problems,” he added. Meanwhile, Pimentel said that

Former President Ferdinand Marcos

he does not consider Marcos a hero, but will respect the decision of the president. Senators Franklin Drilon and Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan on the other hand, urged the president to reconsider. “At this point in the history of our country where Filipinos are starting to hope again, what our nation need is unity in order for our country to succeed socially, economically and politically,” said Drilon in a statement. “Hence, such a sensitive issue would not help but only divide our people and reopen the wounds of the past that up to now, were not completely healed.” DND issues memo The Department of National Defense (DND) issued a formal memorandum, dated August 7, instructing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Ricardo Visaya to “undertake the necessary planning and preparations to facilitate” the interment of the late dictator at the heroes’ cemetery. The AFP was ordered to plan and prepare the transfer of Marcos’s remains. The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) was designated as the overseer and focal agency interment of former President Ferdinand Marcos at the Heroes’ Cemetery. “We don’t have yet the finality of the details but everybody is getting ready. A great deal of it is really coming into terms with the idea that he will be brought to the Libingan which is a very well appreciated gesture, a privilege and some would call, a right, which will finally be given to him and we are happy about it,” Ianree Raquel, head of the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office. “We can feel the sadness and hesitation from our elders but at the same time, they are happy that the present administration is [keen] towards giving him the burial honors that the family has longed for.” n

by Scott of the State of Virginia who was among the first to sign as co-sponsor of the House version of bill and was also a guest speaker at the plenary session in the afternoon. The U.S. Senate earlier passed their counterpart bill on the same. The following day, Saturday, August 6, Vice President Robredo held a press conference at the Radisson Hotel hosted by the Consulate General for the benefit of members of the U.S. Fil-Am

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Bronze lang talaga yung aim namin ng coach ko (That was really my only goal … my coach and I were actually aiming for bronze).” Diaz’s 14-year long journey to the 2016 games features milestones and breakthroughs in addition to its hurdles. She is only the second person to ever compete as a weightlifter for the Philippines, and the first woman to do so. In 2012, she became the first Filipina to bear her country’s flag during the opening ceremonies. Following mixed results in London, Diaz bounced back to claim first place in the 2015 Asian Weightlifting Championships and Bronze in that year’s world competition. She then placed third in the 2016 Asian Championships. “I have tried so hard. I have stumbled many times,” Diaz told Philstar. “I wanted to quit, but now all of my sacrifices have paid off.” Diaz’s accomplishment garnered her a P5 million reward from the Philippine government in addition to the admiration of her countrymen. A private property developing firm is also furnishing the athlete with a house and lot according to Philstar and lucrative sponsorships are likely in the Olympic medalist’s future. The road is far from over for the seasoned athlete. She plans to use the money from her earnings to build her own gym and, after a brief vacation, will return to her training regimen. She told reporters shortly after landing at NAIA airport that she intends to compete in the winter games scheduled for 2020 in Tokyo.

Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz shows off her silver medal at the Rio Olympics, the Philippines first in the 2016 Olympics and also the country’s first in 20 years. Photo by Ted S. Melendres/Inquirer.net

A team taking nothing for granted The Filipina competitor’s success outshone woes over what had been a rocky start to the games for her team. The Philippines had sent 12 other athletes to this year’s games in addition to Diaz. Swimmer Jessie Lacuna, weightlifter Nestor Colonia, table tennis player Ian Lariba and boxer Charly Suarez were knocked out of competition before Diaz’s event began. The Philippine delegation’s only other boxer,

Rogen Ladon, was eliminated by Carlos Quipo Pilataxi of Ecuador on Monday, August 8. On Tuesday, August 9, Italy’s Matteo Marconcini defeated underdog Kodo Nakano in the men’s 81kg judo competition. Swimmer Jasmine Alkhaldi fell short of the podium during her second Olympic appearance in the 100m freestyle race On Wednesday August 10, leaving just five Filipinos to compete in this year’s events. Diaz stayed optimistic about her team’s prospects and told them to keep their spirits and aspirations high. “Kaya ko, kaya din nila (If I can , you can too),” said the olympic medalist. Don’t give up sa mga pangarap nila kasi wala namang impossible (Don’t give up on your dreams because nothing is impossible).” Golfer Miguel Tabuena will return to the course for the second day of the men’s individual tournament on Friday, August 12. Next week, track and field athletes Mary Joy Tabal, Eric Cray and Marestella Sunang will compete in their respective events, the marathon, 400M hurdles and long jump. On Saturday, August 20, Filipina Taekwondo practitioner Kristie Alora will face off against 2008 gold medalist Maria Espinoza of Mexico in the 67kg division. Alora and her coach, Roberto Cruz, acknowledged the challenge before her, but she remains undaunted. “Basta laban lang (It’s enough just [to have a chance to] fight),” Alora told Rappler. “Get through her early on; that’s the mission anyway.” n

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Arum: Pacquiao vs Mayweather rematch…

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You know, Mayweather’s making noises about returning and going to a 50th fight.” Pacquiao lost to Mayweather by a unanimous decision in May 2015. “Let’s see Manny with a fullyhealed shoulder. I think Manny would give a lot better account of himself in that fight. I thought it was a very close fight. I thought Manny could have won that fight. When they fight again, if they fight again, I have no doubt that Manny will win,” said Arum. With a career record of 58 wins and 66 fights, Arum announced Pacquiao’s retirement from his boxing career last April after winning a 12-round unanimous decision against Timothy Bradley Jr. IRONMAN CHAMPIONSHIP. The 2016 Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines marks its biggest year with the Asia Pacific Championship. This year’s race brought in the strongest line up of professional triathletes across the globe coming together on August 7 in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. Inquirer.net photo by Tristan Tamayo

Filipinos respond to Trump’s statements…

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four American soldiers, but ‘preferably execution style’ — we’re dealing with animals — ‘preferably execution style,’” he said. The Republican nominee went on to say that there are allegedly more immigrants “that we don’t know about” who are potentially dangerous. Philippine lawmaker calls for Trump ban Philippine Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella responded to Trump’s comments on behalf of the country, saying that Trump should “really understand his constituents” if he wants to become president. “Baka he’s just speaking in broad strokes na hindi nuya alam talaga ‘yung napag-usapan niya (Maybe he’s just speaking in broad strokes, and he doesn’t really know what he’s talking about),” Abella said on state-run broadcaster dzRB. Communications Secretary Martin Andanar noted Trump’s post in Philippine real estate and the construction of the Trump Tower in Metro Manila in his response to the presidential nominee’s remarks. “Mr. Trump even professed his love for the Philippines during the launch of his 57-story luxury apartment in Makati,” Andanar said. “He did say, ‘I’ve always loved the Philippines. I think it is just a special place, and Manila is one of Asia’s most spectacular cities. I know that [the Trump Tower Manila] will be second to none.’” A congressman from the Philippine House of Representatives has called to ban Trump from the country. Rep. Jose “Joey” Salceda introduced a bill, House Resolution No. 43, in which he called Trump’s presence in the country harmful to “national interest.” “Whereas, there is no feasible basis or reasonable justification to the wholesale labeling of Filipinos as coming from a ‘terrorist state’ or that they will be Trojan Horse,” Salceda said in the legislation, according to Philstar. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte — whom many international media outlets have likened to Trump for his unfiltered rhetoric — has not reacted to the remarks, as of press time. Uproar in Fil-Am community Filipino-American community leaders and elected officials across the U.S. have condemned Trump, asserting that his remarks disregard the contributions Filipinos have made to the country. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau states that there are approximately 3.4 million Filipino immigrants and their children living in the U.S., making Filipi-

nos the fourth largest immigrant community in the U.S. behind Mexicans, Chinese and Indians. Margie Gonzalez, a Filipina activist and community leader in Las Vegas, called Trump’s statements “dangerous” and “misguided.” “As a proud Filipina dedicated to uplifting and empowering our community, I refuse to allow immigrant families like mine to be the target of Trump’s reckless and baseless discrimination. The Filipino community in Nevada makes our economy vibrant and the fabric of our nation stronger,” she said. California Assemblymember Rob Bonta — the first and only Fil-Am elected to the state Legislature — echoed President Barack Obama’s sentiment that Trump is “unfit to serve as president.” (Obama had urged other Republicans to drop support for Trump earlier last week.) “Trump’s call to restrict immigration and tourism from the Philippines doesn’t represent the America my mother believed in when she made the journey to this country decades ago. It doesn’t represent the America that my 1.5 million FilipinoAmerican brothers and sisters in California know. And it’s definitely not the America I want my children to grow up in,” Bonta said in a statement emailed to the Asian Journal. Bonta has also put out a call to action on social media to ban Trump, urging Fil-Ams to share videos and pictures with a sign that says “#BawalSiTrump.” Along with other migrant communities and the colonial history of the U.S. and the Philippines, countless contributions have been made by Filipino workers and their families to the growth of the U.S. in various fields: agriculture and industry, health and wellness, performance arts and humanities, science and technology, public service and social movements, mass media and even security and defense. “Donald Trump disrespects Filipinos and exposes his own ignorance and racism by calling for a ban on immigration from the Philippines. His lack of appreciation of the contributions Filipino laborers have made to this country is shocking,” SEIU Executive Vice President Luisa Blue, a Filipina whose parents emigrated from the Philippines, told the Asian Journal. Since the 1920s, Filipinos have immigrated to the United States to work on farms and in the fishing canneries of the Pacific Northwest, helping to build the nation’s agriculture and fishing industries. “While Donald Trump and the GOP attack Filipinos with divisive

and harmful rhetoric, the Democratic Party has enshrined and honored us in their party’s platform with the inclusion of Filipino American labor leader Larry Itliong among the warriors for social and economic justice. Our choice in November could not be more clear: We need to elect Hillary Clinton to be our president and commander-in-chief,” said Aries Dela Cruz, president of the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York and a member of Filipino Americans for Hillary National Leadership Council. Members of Congress, including Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz, Rep. Mike Honda and Rep. Ted Lieu, have issued statements as well. Asians, Latinos, immigrants and other minority groups will make up almost one-third of the electorate for the November polls. For the first time in history, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) and Latino voters are key to winning several battleground states including Nevada, Colorado and Virginia. Fil-Am Republicans defend statements Meanwhile, Fil-Am Republicans argue that Trump’s comments were taken out of context. “Donald Trump did not say that Filipinos are animals,” Dolly De Leon, a Filipina in Las Vegas who founded Baby Boomers 4 Trump, told the Asian Journal. “The mainstream media is to be blamed for taking out of context what Donald Trump said as much as when he made comments about the criminals who come from Mexico.” The Filipino-American Republicans USA Facebook page denounced the media reports that suggested Trump had referred to all Filipinos as “animals,” and encouraged Filipinos to be more mindful of the news. “We urge our fellow Filipinos to continue to have an open mind and to seek the truth in every issue. We are proud of our readership’s vigilance and not giving into the biased media’s pandering,” the post said. The news comes during a period when Trump is faring poorly among Americans, Democrats and Republicans alike. Following his criticism over Khizr and Ghazala Khan, Muslim American parents whose son lost his life fighting in the U.S. Army, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle expressed outrage. Fifty of the nation’s leading Republican lawmakers — including many former aides or cabinet members from George W. Bush’s administration — signed a letter released on Monday, August 8 warning that Trump “would be the most reckless president in American history.” n

Pacquaio decided to focus on his political career and was elected as senator last May. He made it clear that if he ever decided to fight again, it would not affect his responsibilities in the government. “I don’t know how extensive the work is as a senator in the Philippines. Manny does, the other senators do, they all feel and Manny feels that he can train here in Manila and not miss any sessions, fight in the period when the Senate is in recess, and give a great performance,” Arum said. “In fact whether he can do that or not, that’s up to him. It’s something that we have never ever seen before in the sport of boxing.” Pacquiao earlier confirmed

in a statement that he would fight World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion Jessie Vargas on Nov. 5 in Las Vegas. “Boxing is my passion. I miss what I’d been doing inside the gym and atop the ring,” he said. “My entire training camp will be held here in the Philippines so I can attend to my legislative work. This is my campaign promise and I’m determined to keep it.” Arum described Vargas as a “tough” opponent for Pacquiao and “is not an opponent who goes into his shell, who’s a defensive fighter.” “He’s very very offensive, he is beginning to really punch with authority,” he said. (Dana M. Sioson/AJPress)

US think tank: Satellite images show China’s…

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the time the photos were taken, however, the Center’s analysis suggests that the hangars on all three islets have room for “any fighter-jet in the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.” “They are far thicker than you would build for any civilian purpose,” Gregory B. Poling, director of the center’s Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, told the New York Times on Monday, Aug. 8 in a telephone interview. “They’re reinforced to take a strike.”

The largest hangars, 200 feet wide, are more than enough for strategic bombers and refuelers, according to Poling. On the other hand, the smallest hangars are 60 to 70 feet wide, enough to accommodate China’s largest fighter jets. China has said the new islands are primarily built to assist fishermen and to reinforce its sovereignty claims. It also claimed that they are entitled to build whatever structures it wishes on them, noting that the islands should be able to defend themselves.

Evidence of the military hangars emerged a month after an international tribunal in The Hague ruled that China’s claims over the disputed South China Sea — based on nine-dash-line — were invalid, including its assertion of expansive sovereignty and construction of artificial islands. Despite continuous diplomatic pressure and international clamor to halt its militarization of the disputed sea, China said it wouldn’t recognize the Hague ruling. (Dana M. Sioson / AJPress)

development therein. Enlisting the cooperation of private organizations to assist our citizens in need is also part of her mission, she added. She also addressed queries on how young Filipino-American leaders could be more involved with business and entrepreneurial opportunities in the Philippines, and that she would work to support efforts of Fil-Ams contributing to the strengthening of the Philippine economy. During the NaFFAA Gala Dinner later that evening, Vice President Robredo delivered her keynote address where she reported the efforts of the new Philippine administration in steering the future of the Philippines towards further political, social and economic development. She underscored that her office will focus on five core advocacies: hunger and poverty, universal health care, public housing, education,

and women empowerment. She also acknowledged how the Fil-Am vote was crucial to the overseas balloting which thrusted her to the office of the Vice President during the May 2016 Philippine presidential elections. VP Robredo conveyed that she understood the plight of Overseas Filipinos having lived in Boston with her family while Secretary Jessie Robredo attended school. She said that “perhaps at times you also feel left behind…feel like you are part of the marginalized community … are homesick and tired of working long hours… thinking of how to pay for college education of the children, health care, mortgage and other things. I know how you feel,” she added. She praised how Filipinos have thrived in the United States, ”You’ve created Filipino commu-

Vice Pres. Leni Robredo keynotes the…

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media. She was formally introduced by Consul General Mario de Leon. During the Press Conference, VP Robredo thanked the Filipino diaspora for their support in the last elections. (During the elections, she topped the Vice-Presidential race with a huge margin in North America). She promised to serve all overseas Filipinos regardless of those who voted her. As Chairperson of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, the Vice President said that she intends to go beyond her administrative mandate and mere “ceremonial position” by reinventing the Office of the Vice President (OVP) into an advocate for positive change. She identified advocacies such as prioritizing the most economically deprived provinces and promoting health care, public education, and rural/agricultural

u PAGE A7

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missionary who was raped and murdered during a jail assault in Davao City when he was still a mayor. In his speech on Monday, August 8, in Cagayan de Oro, Duterte said he’s “OK” with US Secretary John Kerry but added that he “quarreled with his gay ambassador,” referring to Goldberg. “I am pissed with him. He meddled during the election, giving statements here and there. He was not supposed to do that,” Duterte pointed out. Despite his tirades, Duterte reiterated the Philippines’ strong alliance with the US. “There is only one source. Two or one. The United States with whom we have alliance militarily,” he said. “But I will reiterate our strong alliance with America.” The United States State Department earlier on Monday asked Philippine diplomats in Washington, D.C. to “clarify” Duterte’s “inappropriate” comments about Goldberg. “I would say two things on that. The first, specifically on the remarks, we’ve seen those inap-

Ang Pangarap Niyo Ay Pangarap Namin.

In this July 19 photo, US Ambassador Philip Goldberg pays a courtesy call on Pres. Rodrigo Duterte at the Music Room in Malacañang Palace. The US Department of State earlier this week summoned the Philippines’ charge d’affaires in Washington after Duterte delivered a speech before troops in Cebu City last Friday, Aug. 5. The President openly slammed Goldberg for some statements made during the campaign season. Photo by King Rodriguez/Presidential Photographers Division

propriate comments made about Ambassador Goldberg. He’s a multi-time ambassador, one of our most senior US diplomats,” said Elizabeth Trudeau, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State in a press briefing. “We have asked the Philippines Chargé to come into the

State Department to clarify those remarks,” she said. Trudeau declined further discuss the meeting on Monday but pointed out that “it was specifically on those remarks...specific remarks that were made about our ambassador to the Philippines.” n

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Features

Motivation

ONE can win races and break world records, but an Olympic medal is still the highest feat an athlete can accomplish. To conquer the Olympics is every athlete’s dream. On Sunday night, Aug. 7, Hidilyn Diaz feasted on cheesy pizza and adobo as her celebratory dinner. Earlier in the day, the 25-year-old was atop a podium as she waves to the crowd, after winning the silver medal in the women’s 53-kg weightlifting event at the ongoing Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Back in her home country, her silver shines like gold as cheers linger on and praises pour in for the Zamboanga City native who made history as the first Filipina to bring home an Olympic medal. “Salamat. Saludo po ako sa inyo (Thank You. I salute you),” Pres. Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday, Aug. 8 as he congratulated Diaz for bringing the honor to the country. “I am impressed, and I would like to wait for you, to receive you in the People’s Palace of Malacanang. As a president of this country, I am overjoyed,” Duterte said of her fellow Mindanaoan. In the Senate, Sen. Sonny Angara filed Senate Resolution No. 88, where he described Diaz as “rare shining star.” “Diaz’s silver-medal victory is momentous, being a veritable first in various respects in Philippine sports history. Hers is the first Philippine Olympic medal since Mansueto ‘Onyok’ Velasco won silver in the light flyweight boxing compe-

tition during the 1996 Summer Olympics in the United States,” the resolution read. “The inspiring story of Diaz is the story of Filipinos,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement. “Hers is about overcoming shyness but for an inspired nation, her road to Rio is a journey of grit, patience and determination which ended a 20-year long medal drought for the Philippines.” In these days marred by political disarray, natural calamity and other depressing news, people look for an inspiration to live through difficult days. A hero is an inspiration—an entity that invokes the beleaguered spirit. A hero is a source of strength that keeps his or her peers going. More than a cause for celebration, Diaz’s recent triumph has become a source of inspiration and hope. Not all heroes die on the battlefield or are killed in the line of duty. Heroes come from all walks of life and in any profession. They are just ordinary men and women who inhabit extraordinary lives that make a change and inspire other people. Diaz and the 12 other Filipino athletes in Rio are modern warriors who do more than represent In her own way, Diaz encourages those who the flag where they came from. Their presence in the elite sporting event gives their countrymen want to follow her footsteps that if you persevere, hope, self-respect, and to many people—pride in you can claim victory and be a hero yourself. Every journey will be brutal, hard-nosed and who they are.

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

beautiful. This Olympic victory is a reminder that even though times are cloaked with uncertainty, life has some moments of great pride and joy. (AJPress)

Do you support Donald Trump’s plan to ban immigration from the Philippines? DONALD Trump has declared before that should he be elected President of the United States, he would ban immigration from countries identified to be a hub of terrorists so he could protect America from ISIS. The Philippines has been named by the State Department as one of those countries. However, it was when Donald Trump mentioned the Philippines in his campaign speech in Portland, Maine that this hit many kababayans to their core. Trump proposed a temporary ban on ALL Muslims from what he called as “terrorist nations”. “We are letting people come in from terrorist nations that shouldn’t be allowed because you can’t vet them…You have no idea who they are. This could be the great Trojan horse of all time,” he said. Trump warned that terrorists, including members of the Islamic State extremist group, will sneak into the United States as refugees. Trump then went on to mention immigrants from countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, Morocco, Pakistan, Somalia, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen -- who were arrested for conducting or threatening to carry out violent attacks, teaching bomb-making to recruits, and otherwise supporting terror groups. [NOTE: permanent residents are NOT illegals] And then he went on to say in no uncertain terms, that indeed, the Phil-

ippines is part of this list of terrorist nations, The Fil-Am and I quote: “An immigrant from Perspective Afghanistan, who later applied for and received U.S. citizenship, and a legal per- Gel SantoS-ReloS manent resident from the Philippines were convicted for plotting to join Al Qaeda and the Taliban in order to kill as many Americans as possible,” Trump said during the rally. ”We’re dealing with animals,” Trump also said earlier in his speech. But the uproar did not only come from kababayans. Here in the United States, even U.S. politicians came to Filipinos’ defense against Trump’s statement. As Balitang America Senior Correspondent Henni Espinosa reported on The Filipino Channel, Democratic Senator from Hawaii Brian Schatz was among those who were quick to denounce Trump’s statements saying these do not have a place in American politics. “His call to ban Filipinos from coming to the US demonstrates an absolute ignorance of the contributions that Filipino-Americans have made to American society but it also fails to recognize the strong relationship that the US and the Philippines have and have

had for decades,” Sen. Schatz said. A quarter of Hawaii’s population is Filipinos. “He doesn’t understand that Asian Americans generally, Filipino-Americans, in particular, are a growing voting bloc, to the extent that they can have an influence on the elections. I have no doubt that they will,” Sen. Schatz added. Balitang America also reported on the statements two American politicians who are sons of Filipino immigrants. California Assemblymember Rob Bonta, the first and only Filipino elected to the State Legislature, said in a statement, “ Trump’s sweeping, irresponsible and vitriolic pronouncements on race have no place in our America.” There are more than 1.5 million Filipinos in America, the state with the biggest Filipino population. In New Jersey, Jersey City Council President Rolando Lavarro Jr. also made strong statements against Trump. In a report by Balitang America New York Correspondent Don Tagala, Lavarro said, Trump disregards “over a century of relations between the U.S. and the Philippines” and insults over 127,000 Fil-Ams residing in New Jersey.

Donald Trump

But there are kababayans who support Trump’s plan. Balitang America Los Angeles Correspondent Steve Angeles interviewed a Filipina who said she agrees with Trump, so long as the temporary ban is for MUSLIMS only. Do you support Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump’s plan to

ban immigration from the Philippines? *** 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

ASEAN in need of directions LET’S talk emergencies. briefly about Commentary There were, Asean. The Asof course, sociation of other simiSoutheast Asian lar but more Nations was explicitly deformed nearly fense-focused half a century ei Sun oh mechanisms ago against a that were eibackdrop of ther already worsening armed conflicts pri- in existence (Southeast Asia mary in the Indo-Chinese penin- Treaty Organization, SEATO) sula. The primary fear then was or about to emerge (Five Powthat the possible fall of South ers Defense Arrangement in Vietnam into communist hands 1971), but these others were would precipitate a “domino ef- mostly driven by foreign powfect” that would sweep through ers such as the United States Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, or the United Kingdom. Asean Indonesia and even the Phil- was the first substantial Asian ippines – all Southeast Asian regional grouping that was ininations saddled with domestic tiated from within its member communist insurgencies to var- states. ious degrees – and bring down Nevertheless, the withdrawal their existing governments one of American forces from Vietby one, or even simultaneous- nam and the almost immedily. ate communist takeover of So the idea of Asean was at South Vietnam did not result first a more strategically orient- in the aforementioned domino ed one, a not too heavy-handed “falls” of Southeast Asian govattempt at “pooling” together ernments. At about the same the defense capabilities of its time, the urgent need to propel initial five members for mutual Southeast Asian countries’ ecoassistance in case of strategic nomic and social developments

was becoming evident to all responsible Asean member states, which started to welcome massive foreign direct investments. Asean thus gradually and subtly shifted gear to become a more economically oriented regional grouping, ushering one after another essentially free trade agreement over the years, removing or reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers among its member states, as well as with other important foreign trading partners such as China, Korea and Japan. This culminated, of course, in the inauguration earlier this year of the Asean Economic Community, which is a bold attempt to build a common market and production base for the still relatively thriving manufacturing hub that is Southeast Asia, so that the region’s economic development can be further freed from the shackles of man-made cross-border costs. Along the way, Asean picked up new member states. Brunei came in the 1980s after achieving independence. The so-called CMLV countries of

Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam followed suit a decade later. And Asean did not forget its “strategic” roots, almost always insisting on so-called “Asean-centric” regional security mechanisms, through its numerous strategically important platforms such as the Asean (Plus) Summits, Asean Regional Forum, and Asean Defense Ministers Meeting (Plus). Asean makes its most important decisions in the famed “Asean Way,” which is in essence a consensus-seeking deliberation process. This Asean Way is often physically embodied in the famous cross-arm hand-holding of Asean leaders during summits and meetings. The legendary consensus was much easier achieved during the earlier years of Asean, when leaders from the small number of member states shared similar cultural and educational backgrounds, more easily developed close personal ties, and could reach gentlemen’s agreements in informal “bonding” sessions. That kind of chumminess is alas no lon-

ger visible nowadays. A much more formalized setting is arranged for Asean discussion, and often consensus, if at all, has to be extracted in a much more rigid manner. The Asean consensus was, of course, tested to its brink in recent years, most famously in 2012, when Asean leaders meeting in Cambodia failed to produce a joint declaration. Earlier this year, a special Asean foreign ministers’ meeting also retracted a joint statement, and the most recent foreign ministers’ meeting barely scraped through with a diluted statement. As I see it, to remain relevant in the future, Asean perhaps cannot afford to continue to “muddle through” one crisis after another, for these crises will only increase in both their frequency and severity. Asenn has to make a clear choice as to what kind of regional organization it would like to evolve into. On the one hand, there is, of course, the temptation in Asean’s decision-making to overcome essentially the veto of one or two

member states, and to proceed with a majority or supermajority in regional matters. Besides, there are also possibilities for “coalition of the willing” among Asean member states to essentially allow some member states to take things into their (albeit collective) hands. But these decision methods, of course, risk breaking up Asean into a meaningless cacophony of different national voices and interests. And there are even calls for a much more strengthened and empowered Asean central authority. Yet the Brexit decision also conveys a lesson that too much centralized bureaucracy in a regional organization will make member states regret its partial surrender of sovereignty. And, of course, on the other hand, Asean could also “retreat” from attempting to take central state on strategic matters, and instead, focus on economic development and cooperation. All these options will take Asean toward different future scenarios. But at least one thing is clear: Asean is in need of directions. (ManilaTimes.net)

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Supreme Court temporarily blocks ruling on transgender bathrooms by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

ThE United States Supreme Court has refrained from deciding on a court ruling that required a school board in Gloucester County, Virginia to allow a transgender high school student to use the boy’s bathroom. The school board had submitted a request to the Supreme Court to block the lower court ruling, and the court granted the request on Wednesday, August 3. The lower court ruling would have allowed 17-year-old Gavin Grimm — who was born a girl — to use the school restroom that coincides with his gender identity. The Supreme Court’s ruling means that Grimm will not be able to use the restroom of his choice. The school board said that it wanted to “protect the basic expectations of bodily privacy of Gloucester County students.” The school board had been

seeking exemption from President Barack Obama’s directive in May that requires public schools to allow transgender students to use restrooms that fit with their gender identity by the 2016-2017 academic year. Twenty-three states have sued against this order so far. Joshua Block, a lawyer for Grimm, told Reuters that they are both “disappointed” at the court’s motion and “that Gavin is going to have to begin another school year being stigmatized and separated from his peers as a result of this policy.” Last year, a lawyer from the Department of Education argued that the federal anti-discrimination law Title IX — which prohibits discrimination of sexes in educational institutions — protects transgender students and allows them to use the bathroom they deem fits in with their gender identity. This is the first time that a case regarding transgender bathroom

rights has reached the Supreme Court. Previously, a circuit court ruled 2-1 in favor of Grimm, upholding Title IX. The American Civil Liberties Union (ALCU) sued the Gloucester County School Board last year on behalf of Grimm to dispute the board’s bathroom policy, which sectioned off alternative restrooms for transgender students. Justice Stephen Breyer — who joined the four Republican justices to make the Supreme Court ruling a 5-3 decision — was the only Democratic justice that ruled in favor of putting the hold, saying he did not support the school’s emergency appeal, but joined the four conservative justices “as a courtesy.” “In light of the facts that four justices have voted to grant the application referred to the court by the Chief Justice, that we are currently on recess and that granting the stay will preserve the status quo,” Breyer said in a statement. n

Vice Pres. Leni Robredo Keynotes the…

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nities here that care, just like in the barangays and villages at home…as you transform the lives of those you touch through trainings and advocacy. Filipinos truly are citizens of the world, but always rooted in our homegrown values of bayanihan. Walang iwanan. Tulungan. Simplicity and courtesy. Most of all Faith” she underscored. The Vice-President further encouraged Upon her arrival in Philadelphia, Vice President Robredo was officially welcomed by Consul General De Leon, Filipinos to give back Chargé d’affairés Patrick A. Chuasoto of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., and senior officers of and participate in na- the Philippine Consulate General New York, Philippine Trade and Investment Office (PTIC-NY), Philippine tion-building activi- Department of Tourism in New York (PDOT-NY), PAG-IBIG Fund, the Radisson Hotel and NaFFAA. Photos by Wendell Gaa ties, citing examples tiative on Asian American and ment of communities, as well like the Naga Migrant Resource Center - the first of its as acknowledging the NaFFAA Pacific Islanders Towards the end of the Gala, kind in the country – organized awardees recognized in the to assist overseas Filipinos in “Trailblazer Award” who have Vice President Robredo led the pre- and post-deployment activi- used their position to elevate the official induction of the new NaFties and reintegration programs profile of the Filipino-American FAA officers who were led by its which can be replicated all over in mainstream American soci- newly-elected National Chair, ety. The awardees include Ron- Brendan Flores, a 2nd generathe Philippines. The Vice President then ex- nie del Carmen, Fil-Am co-di- tion Filipino American. Earlier in toled the NaFFAA regional rector of the Pixar animated film the evening, NaFFAA community leaders for being role mod- “Inside Out”, Billy Dec, founder members were able to have their els in initiating projects which of Rockit Ranch Production, and photo opportunity taken with the have contributed to improve- Jason Tengco of the White Ini- Vice President. n

WINNING PHOTO. Froi Rivera’s work “Love for Football” won the gold prize at the European Union Delegation to the Philippines’ “IS EUropa in U” photography competition. The awarding ceremony was held at the De La Salle University, where the photo exhibit was also launched, on Monday, Aug. 8, 2016. Photo by Froi Rivera, courtesy of European Union

5,000 water systems violate federal law by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

MORE than 5,000 water systems in the United States violate federal law, affecting approximately 18 million Americans, according to a report released Tuesday, June 28. The National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) found that these systems violated lead and copper laws, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the body that is responsible for regulating the water systems, knew about them but did little to nothing about it. A CNN report indicated that in approximately nine out of 10 cases of contaminated water, the EPA took no enforcement action. NRDC said that the water systems required to complete thorough water testing, regular reporting of contamination and meticulous water treatment, but these water systems have failed to do so; in other words, these systems have committed health, monitoring and reporting violations. “These violations were recorded because the systems were not doing everything that they are required to do to pro-

tect the public from lead issues, which could include failure to treat to reduce lead levels in the water (health violations), failure to monitor the water for lead as required (monitoring violations), or failure to report lead results to the public or government,” the report said. But the 5,000 systems that have committed violations only made up the reported violations and failed to account for unreported instances. Erik Olson, health program director at NRDC, told CNN that some water utility companies manipulate the systems’ machinery and purposefully use imprecise testing methods so that they don’t detect higher levels of lead. In other words, there are water systems who are breaching the law but don’t get reported.any level over 15 parts per billion (ppb) The NRDC mapped out leadrelated issues reported throughout the U.S. and found that lead contamination is rampant across the country and the contaminated systems cover an expansive geographic scope. According to NRDC’s findings, there were 13 reported violations in Los Angeles County water systems that served over

5,000 Angelenos. Kern County’s water systems were especially affected with 74 reported violations that affected 102,691 residents. There are many reasons why a water system can fail, but one of the most common reasons is through repairs gone wrong. Unsafe levels of lead were discovered in Sebring, Ohio earlier this year after workers altered the water’s chemistry to prevent pipe corrosion. It took five months before the city issued a warning of the water’s detrimental effects to children and pregnant women, according to reports from The Columbus Dispatch. In 2001, the Washington Post reported that lead levels in Washington, D.C.’s tap water escalated to 20 times the federally-approved level, and it took three years before residents found out. Yet the problem may be a product of the country’s infrastructure. Thirty years ago, Congress passed a law that banned lead water pipes, yet between 3.3 million and 10 million of them remain in today’s water systems, allowing lead to infiltrate many of the country’s water systems. n

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PNP chief: Drug lord taps terrorist groups to plot Duterte assassination by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Chief Director Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa claimed on Wednesday, August 20, that a top drug trafficker has teamed up with armed groups that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) to kill him and President Rodrigo Duterte. “We received an intelligence report that a mayor, who was tagged as a drug lord, is offering bounties to personalities identified with armed groups in Mindanao that pledged allegiance to ISIS, to assassinate me and President Duterte,” Dela Rosa told ABS-CBN. “They will reportedly use IEDs (Improvised Explosive Device).” Dela Rosa refused to name the alleged drug lord but described that he is an incumbent mayor from Mindanao.

He said that the PNP has sought the Army’s help to “neutralize” the mayor but pointed out that the operation cannot be rushed. “We don’t want another Mamasapano SAF 44 encounter so we are taking caution,” he added, noting that the location may pose them an operational complication. Despite the threats, Dela Rosa however said he is unfazed, leaving it up to God if He wanted him and the president dead. “Bahala na si Lord. Kung gusto ni Lord mamatay na ang presidente, mamatay talaga yan kahit anong gwardya natin sa kanya (It’s up to God. If He wants the president to die, he will die no matter how much we guard him),” Manila Bulletin quoted Dela Rosa. “The same with me; kung gusto na ni Lord mamatay na din ako (If God wants me to die too), he can take my life any time. Hindi

kami takot (We are not scared), wag kang mag-alala sa threat na yan (Don’t worry about the threat).” He said that he will not tighten his personal security or stop going to public places because of the threat. Dela Rosa also expressed his confidence that they will be successful in their campaign against illegal drugs within three to six months of the Duterte administration. According to him, around 600,000 have already surrendered or got killed among the estimated 1.8 million drug personalities in the country. “We set out target very high. We aim high because if we falter, we would still get a passing grade. We are aiming for 100 percent. We need it done within 3 to 6 six months – either they surrender, get killed, or get arrested. We need to address it,” he said. n

Arroyo now deputy speaker, set to represent Central Luzon by JoSeph

almer B. peDraJaS AJPress

FORMER president and now Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will be the deputy speaker of the House of Representative for Central Luzon in the 17th Congress. Arroyo made the announcement in an ambush interview on Wednesday, August 10, at the Veterans Medical Memorial Center (VMMC), where she visited to sign a deed of donation for two hemodialysis machines she gave. The former president will be one of the seven deputy speakers, who will represent Central Luzon. Arroyo added that she only received the proposition during their lunch meeting with congressmen of the “Central Luzon bloc” led by Bulacan 4th District Rep. Linabelle Villarica. “We had our lunch together and then our president, Linabelle Villarica, she said that well, ‘to

Former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo visits a patient at the Veterans’ Memorial Medical Center, where she was detained for four years. ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike De Juan

our fellow members, we would like to nominate our former president to be our representative as Deputy Speaker’ so I clapped and said ‘okay, okay, approve, approve’ that’s all,” she said. Arroyo presumes that “nobody would object” to her nomination. Meanwhile, subsequent to her release from VMMC where she was detained for four years,

the Pampanga representative expressed support to President Rodrigo Duterte’s plan regarding Charter change. “I filed a resolution for ConAss,” she told. When asked about issues like the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos, reimposition of death penalty and the uncontrolled extra-judicial killings, Arroyo declined to comment. n

NEW GAME. Philippine National Police (PNP) launched on Monday, Aug. 8 a mobile app game featuring the newly installed PNP chief, Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa. The endless runner game titled, “Tsip Bato Ang Bumangga Giba” allows you to catch criminals (in green masks), while avoiding obstacles like pedestrians and other vehicles. You can move the character by swiping on your phone screens.

Sandiganbayan allows Junjun Binay’s travel to US by Dana

SioSon AJPress

IN a resolution dated August 9, 2016, the Sandiganbayan has approved former Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay’s travel request to bring his daughter for a medical appointment in the United States. “The Court, over the prosecution’s opposition, hereby resolves to GRANT accused permission to travel abroad to Los Angeles, California, United States of America, to accompany his daughter on her appointment with immunologist Dr. Ricardo Tan,” the resolution read. Binay filed the urgent motion for permission to travel abroad before the Court on August 4, 2016 to visit Tan for a second opinion regarding his daughter’s staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. His six-year-old daughter’s appointment was scheduled on August 19 and 20. The Sandiganbayan however, asked the former mayor to deposit a cash travel bond of P608,000 to “guarantee faithful compliance with the terms and conditions imposed on his travel.” Binay’s lawyer paid the re-

Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay

quired travel bond on Thursday, August 11. The court permitted the former mayor to leave the country not earlier than August 15 and should be back not later than August 24. His itinerary of travel was also limited to Los Angeles,

California. The Sandiganbayan noted that Binay should present himself personally before the Third Division’s clerk of court and bring his passport and photocopies of relevant pages indicating the stamps of his departure from and entry into the Philippines five days after his expected arrival in the Philippines. He must also show proof that his daughter underwent medical check-up. If, however, he canceled his departure, the Court said that he should still personally present himself before the division clerk of court with his passport. Should Binay fail to faithfully comply with the conditions set in the resolution, the anti-graft court said that it would be a ground for the Court to “to order for the forfeiture of his bail and travel bond and the issuance of a warrant for his arrest.” The former mayor is facing graft, malversation, and falsification of public documents charges over his involvement in the alleged overpriced construction of the Makati City Hall Building II, also referred to as the Makati parking building. n

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Department of tourism secretary WanDa corazon tulfo-teo:

‘Visit the PhiliPPines and see the change’ by

Part of the new direction of the administration in making positive changes in the Philippines is newly appointed department of tourism (dot) secretary Wanda corazon tulfo-teo. as an archipelago rich and brimming in biodiversity, culture, heritage, and history, the Philippines is indeed a place where amazing tourist destinations are around every corner. last July 28, teo made an announcement that the grand Miss Universe Beauty Pageant will be held in the Philippines on January 30, 2017, making it a strategic opportunity to promote tourism in the Philippines twenty years ago, it was not the case. that time, it was very difficult to endorse the Philippines, according to teo. For instance, Mindanao is a very alluring place and yet before, she would sometimes hear people say, ‘“oh not in davao,” nor other places in Mindanao after hearing stories of kidnappings and terrorism. there was even a time when she traveled abroad and people would ask her, “Where is the Philippines?” “i would get a map and say ‘this is the Philippines’ and i would show them. ‘Where is davao?’ and i would tell them ‘From Manila you have to fly to davao’,” she expressed with laughter. today, teo wants tourists — Filipinos or not — to see the beauty and changes that are happening in the country. “ating mga kababayan, gusto kong pumunta kayo sa Pilipinas kasi iba ‘yung pag nasa sariling bansa. Makikita ninyo

Dana M. SioSon / AJPress

yung magagandang tanawin dito sa Pilipinas. iba na ‘yung Pilipinas ngayon (To our fellow Filipinos, I want you all to come to the Philippines because it is different when you are in your own country. You will see all the beautiful sights here in the Philippines. The Philippines is different today) as compared before,” she said and added, “come and visit the Philippines and you will see the change.” At the forefront of Philippine tourism teo started her modest professional career in travel and tourism as a flight stewardess for Filipinas orient airways and air niugini. after realizing that travel and tours can be a lucrative business, she opened her own company, Mt. apo travel and tours, inc., serving as President & ceo since 1994. she, of course, divested herself of any involvement in the company after her appointment to head the dot last June. Being at the forefront of Philippine tourism for almost all of her professional life, she was also the President of the national association of independent travel agencies—the largest travel association in the country — for many years. she would often go out in the country, join sales missions and travel fairs to promote the Philippines as a destination—making her an expert in the tourism industry. Working with President Rodrigo Duterte having been based in davao, secretary teo has known President

AJPress photos by Noel Ty

Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Tulfo-Teo

PH Tourism Sec. Wanda Corazon-Teo with Asian Journal Publications, Inc. CEO and Publisher Roger L. Oriel

rodrigo duterte for more than 20 years and he saw firsthand her determination and drive to promote travel to and within the Philippines. “...that was the time when the president saw i was really doing my best selling the destinations in the Philippines. that is where i started to see him,” teo shared. “i would invite him whenever we had travel fairs, and he saw that. that’s the reason he selected me as the secretary of tourism.” right now, teo is very proud to say that there has been lot of transformation in the Philippines and more are to be expected during this administration. as President duterte continues to

rid the ills that have plagued the country for so many years, these efforts would also help increase tourist arrivals especially since safety is on the minds of the billions of global tourists that travel each and every year. “i would say if they would come to the Philippines, they would be safe here because you could say that the president is doing well in the first few — actually it’s less than a month. he’s doing well,” teo said. “his ratings went up and people change[d]. and in fact, we were told by the president to really make an impact with the lives of the people — that we should be the example. no corruption.” to make sure that the vision to bring more visitors to the country happens, teo and her department would like to focus on improving and building infrastructures such as airports, roads, and bridges that connect to underdeveloped destinations throughout the country as well as promoting hidden, untapped destinations. another agenda of the department is to sell destinations to both the local and foreign market. on august 12-13 (Friday and saturday), teo will be at the Fiesta in america in new York to personally invite our kababayans in the east coast to come home and visit the Philippines. she will then travel to san Francisco to attend the Pistahan Parade and Festival at the Yerba Buena gardens on

Born in Kidapawan, cotabato on november 4, 1952, Wanda corazon tulfoteo graduated with a Bachelor of science in Business administration degree from saint theresa’s college in Quezon city. teo started her modest professional career in the travel and tourism industry as a flight stewardess for Filipinas orient airways and niugini for years. after discovering how lucrative the travel and tours business can be, she ventured into it by putting up her own company. From her humble start to now being the department of tourism secretary, teo’s advocacy of evangelizing Philippine tourism to others makes her perfect for the current’s administration vision in making a change in the country. here are some of her notable achievements: • President & ceo, Mt. apo travel and tours, inc. - 1994 to June 2016 • Pioneered to promote davao city as a leading tourist attraction: - President, davao association of tour operators (dato) - President, davao travel agencies association (dtaa) - 2nd Vice President, national association of travel agents (nata) - secretary of tourism congress - Vice President, davao regional tourism council (drtc) - chairman, network of independent travel agencies (nitas) davao chapter - President, national association of independent travel agencies (naitas) davao chapter. naitas is the biggest travel agency organization in the Philippines, with more than 400 members and 13 chapters. • teo was the brains behind the naitas travel & trade show (ntts), dubbed as the Philippines’ liveliest travel, tourism, technology and trade fair. • leadership award and Plaque of recognition from naitas national congress • Presidential citation and award from nitas davao • Participated in various tourism conferences internationally like the ctW asia Pacific in Bangkok, thailand (2011); the itB Berlin in germany (2010) and the Brunei darussalam-indonesia-MalaysiaPhilippines east asean growth area (BiMP-eaga) trade tourism & investment Forum in Malaysia (1992). sunday, august 14. teo wants out to potential visitors, especially second and third generation Fil-ams who have never been to the country. she fully understands and appreciates the importance of the global Filipino market can help drive and further ignite the tourism industry in the Philippines. after

all, if Filipinos aren’t enthusiastic to visit their own homeland, how can they expect foreigners to come? “it’s different if you come back and see for yourself that this is where i came from, this is where you come from,” she said. “We have lots of beautiful places to see in the Philippines. so i would like you to come.”

Anne Curtis not pressured into getting married by MariDol rañoa-biSMark Philstar.com

soMe celebrities raise a howl or simply clam up when people ask them repetitive questions like “When are you and your boyfriend settling down?” like a gracious party host, anne curtis smiles and answers the questions over and over. “enjoy pa kami (she and boyfriend of six years erwan heussaff) sa career namin, in traveling together. We’ll get there, but not now,” anne said at the first shooting day of “Bakit lahat ng guwapo May Boyfriend?” anne admitted that she’s tickled pink when netizens cheer her on each time she posts photos of her and erwan on instagram. it tells anne many people are happy seeing her and erwan smiling at each other, or holding each other’s hand. netizens urging her to tie the knot don’t bother anne. But she tells them it won’t happen anytime soon. “Teka lang. chill! i want to travel more and see south africa. it’s different when you already have a baby. Basta, it (marriage) will happen when it’s supposed to happen.” at 31, career is still anne’s priority, although she said she won’t waste a single minute of her precious time if she thinks the relationship is headed nowhere. she has avoided teleseryes in favor of her daily aBs-cBn noontime show “it’s showtime!,” where she

“Bakit Lahat ng Guwapo May Boyfriend” star Anne Curtis (with co-stars Paolo Ballesteros and Dennis Trillo): There’s a right time for marriage.

enjoys cracking jokes with her cohosts, and being her bubbly self. teleseryes, she noted, take her away from “showtime!, “ where she can horse around with co-hosts and have the time of her life. no wonder she won’t give up the show in favor of other projects. and anne is happy guesting in teleseryes instead of being a mainstay. she’s just as happy with her new comedy, Jun robles lana’s “Bakit lahat ng guwapo May Boyfriend” where anne costars with dennis trillo and Paolo Ballesteros. anne is not sure if she’s ready to turn her back on this and 19 years of doing films, hosting shows, staging concerts and releasing albums when she settles down with erwan and bears children. all she knows is that acting is “part of my life and being an actress is forever.” For now, she won’t rock the

boat where her career is concerned. “there’s a right time for that (marriage),” she said, while pointing to showbiz batch mate antoinette taus as a “kindred spirit” who has stayed single even as celebrities in their age group, like solenn heussaff and georgina Wilson have settled down. anne has a timeline for motherhood, though. she wants to have a baby at age 34, or three years from now. By that time, she has enjoyed her career all the more, perhaps traveled to south africa, and gone on adventures only a woman without a baby to worry about can take. then, after three years, anne can tell her baby boy or girl colorful stories about the sights she’s seen, the places she’s been to, the people she met and the lessons she learned. she won’t have any regrets, no reason to sigh.

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On the PEP Front

The glitterati of the 2016 People’s Ball

People, Events, Places BoBBy T. yalong An event, no matter how meticulously conceptualized, painstakingly rehearsed, and smoothly presented, will still fail to achieve the utmost standard of grandiosity when lacking of interesting personalities and glitterati that effectually add to its definitive glitz and glam. The indefatigable working committee of the 2016 People’s Ball never left a stone unturned just so to assure a truly successful and tremendously celebrated event that could surpass the sensational achievements of the previous years. From coming up with the classic Roaring 20’s Gatsby-style theme to choosing the perfect performers and up to finalizing program sequences, the 2016 People’s Ball is vitally loaded with unstinted elements an event winner should be packed with. Just take into consideration the two lady hosts to emcee the nostalgic occasion: Firstly, there is Lenn Almadin Thornhill, a veteran journalist at ABS-CBn, a skillfully knowledgeable media practitioner, Assignment Editor at WRnn FIOS 1 news, a job she recently took on after working and living in the Caribbean for 5 years. She worked as a reporter and as a senior news producer for both radio and TV for two of Trinidad and Tobago’s news stations, CCn TV6 and CnMG, covering elections, special reports and breaking news. Her work there earned her a Caribbean Broadcasting Union Award in 2013 for a three-part special series on child sexual abuse. During her time in the Caribbean, Lenn also began working as a special correspondent for Global Reporters’ 18 Degrees north show which is based in Jamaica. Lenn has worked as a correspondent and producer for ABS-CBn news since 2001, covering US Presidential elections and general assignments. She is also a freelance correspondent for Rappler.com. Last year, Lenn was asked to executive produce the general election coverage in Trinidad and Tobago for CnMG. She continues to contribute special reports for the news stations in the Caribbean. Then, there’s the quintessential globetrotter, travelogue producer, an independent documentary filmmaker, and a fashion icon in the person of Miss Paola Isabella Rocha Tornito. From having been armed with a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service from the Lyceum of the Philippines, socialite Paola has journeyed far and wide and she speaks five languages: French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, and English, and not to forget, her native tongue, Tagalog. Currently, Paola is comprehensively working on her travel documentary to be released soon. 2016 People’s Ball Performers This year’s edition of the People’s Ball could easily be considered talent-loaded with nothing but only the consummate and unparalleled local performers the tri-state can be proud of. If there’s but one promising boy band around that could effortlessly grab the spotlights anytime soon, that would be Take The Stage, a triumvirate of musically inclined teenage boys which monikers are to capture not only their young followers but also even those young-at-hearts who could not resist the sound of their infectious brand of music. Equally good-lookers in their own right, Hans Garcia (16) is the band’s lead guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter while younger brother Shanne Garcia (12) is designated as the group’s drummer and vocals. Cousin Kiel Calonzo (16), plays the bass guitar and does occasional vocals. All three are indubitably bound nowhere but success. Take The Stage is all set to perform two classic 1920’s Kenny Baker recordings: “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love” and “I Ain’t nobody,” great songs not even their parents know. Christopher Corro, a romantic balladeer from Visayas, is one of the most in-demand dance instructors in the Queens area. Chris is currently employed as a Dental Assistant while moonlighting as a singer and front-act artist for visiting celebrities and recording artists from Manila. A talent easy to get along with, Chris is open to challenging songs and production numbers without a word of either complaint or rejection. For the People’s Ball Chris will render his own interpretation of Louie Armstrong’s “Ain’t Misbehavin,” and Kenny Baker’s “After You’ve Gone.” The current toast of every Queens watering hole is unmistakably none other than the enticing curly-haired rocker

Take The Stage Band

Ace Saxophonist Adam Hutcheson

Christopher Corro

Emmanuel Sorza and reigning Miss Jersey City Shirley Escalada

Master keyboardist Eric Celerio

Lenn Almadin Thornhill

Michelle Pross

Rasmin Diaz

Up-coming print Ad model Marcelo Valarezo

from Batangas, Michelle Pross more popularly known in the entertainment circuit as Michelle Michelle. Although stably employed and financially sound but still singing is something the sultry chanteuse cannot live being devoid of. To share her vocal capability with and entertain the People’s Ball attendees, Michelle has superbly mastered “My Sweeter Than Sweet” and Lee Mores’“Yes, Sir, That’s My Baby.” Ardently subscribing to the dictates of her obsession, Rasmin Diaz finds singing as a therapeutic passion and an antidote for loneliness…having been away from home for years. After having captured her Canadian audience, Rasmin took new York by storm via her amazingly powerful vocal range and innately distinctive technique in belting out jazz, pop, and disco beats aside from assiduously exploring Blues music. For the People’s Ball, Rasmin was assigned Teddy Raph & His Orchestra’s “Dream A Little Dream Of Me” and “It Had To Be You” by Isham Jones. What could be more exciting than anticipating for the stimulating performance of the vocal power from Connecticut which name alone could whisk curiosity? Mitch Week, Michelle Semana in private (hence the ‘Week’ from Semana) has successfully established her status in the performing arena. Petite with a gigantic vocal range and a stage appeal far from being ignored, Mitch is one singer with limitless genre and expansive technical variation. Her vocal quality is as distinct as her suitable song preferences like two among Ella Fitzgerald’s well-received recordings: “I’ll See You In My Dreams’ and “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Singers, no matter how exceptionally brilliant, will tend to lose their vocal luster when poorly supplemented with an amateurish accompaniment, but on the contrary, when masterful fingers ‘caressed’ the keyboards, great performers turned out even much greater when an Eric Celerio plays the piano along with them. An actor, songwriter, composer, and Master Keyboardist, Eric Celerio must have been born with a piano for his twin aside from the fact that he’s the son of another Filipino Music Master, the late Levi Celerio. Eric, for the People’s Ball, accompanies all performers on the keyboards, after having thoroughly underwent a one-on-one rehearsal with him. Continued on Page 5

Michelle (Mitch Week) Semana

Promising model Cesar Caceres

Paola Isabella Rocha Tornito

Immigration Corner

The September 2016 priority dates

EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card. ***

Application Filing Date

Visa Issuance Date

December 22, 2005

July 1, 2005

First Preference

Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)

Second Preference

(2A) Spouse and minor children (below November 22, 21 years old) of green 2015 card holder

November 15, 2014

(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder

February 1, 2006

December 1, 2005

Third Preference

Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.

August 1, 1995 June 15, 1994

Fourth Preference

Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.

July 15, 1993

LABOR CERTIFICATION:

Application Filing Date

Second Preference

Advanced Degree (Masters)

Third Preference

Professional/ Skilled Workers

Other Workers

Non-Skilled Workers

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,

By Ricky Lo

BECAUSE he is sure of himself (sexual preference and all), Billy Crawford has no qualms about playing a gay in Regal Films’ riotous “gender-friendly” comedy “That Thing Called Tanga Na,” as a nod to the LGBT community. In the movie directed by Joel Lamangan, Billy plays a security guard who has a lover, the same characters essayed by his co-stars Eric Quizon, Martin Escudero and Kean Cipriano, with Angeline Quinto as the lone leading lady. It’s actually Billy’s balik-Regal starrer. As a kid, he starred with Rudy Fernandez in “Sandakot na Bala” (1988) and as the son of Vilma Santos in Pahiram ng Umaga which won Billy his first Guillermo Mendoza Best Child Actor Award. Meanwhile, here are the “who, what, where, when, how” about Billy. Who • Who is the person that you look up to? “My dad. He’s the one that pretty much taught me everything — being professional at work, being a good person in general, just being a respectful man, and you know, the typical morals of a young child. My dad was pretty strict and pretty firm with us growing up.” • Who is Billy Crawford away from the public eye? “I’m exactly the same as you see me on-cam. I’m jolly, I like to mess around, I’m a fun bully, I’m just a regular human being who makes mistakes from time to time.” • Who do you turn to when you’re feeling low? “Coleen (Garcia).” What • What’s one of your traits that

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY Au g u ST 1 2 , 20 1 6

March 1, 1993

Visa Issuance Date

Current

February 1, 2014

January 1, 2013

July 1, 2010

January 1, 2013

July 1, 2010

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 (Advertising Supplement)

Billy Crawford plays gay security guard in new film Philstar.com

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The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: FAMILY CATEGORY:

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

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in? “I’m most at home at home — with my family and my girl.” • Where do you go to relax (unwind)? “I just go to the beach, like what Coleen and I did in Maldives and Phuket. If I can’t travel, I just stay home and watch series after series from time to time.” • Where is your Achilles’ Heel? “My weak spot? If it’s literal, maybe my heart. But if we’re being figurative, maybe it’s when my family’s going through something.” When • When did you lose your innocence (to a younger woman, older woman or woman your age)? “Who says I lost my innocence? I’m still innocent.” (Laughs) • When was the last time you saw yourself nude? “This morning, earlier in the shower.” • When are you at your Billy Crawford as his tattooed real self (certified heterosexual) and (right) as the happiest, at your saddest? closet gay security guard in Regal Films’ “I’m happiest when I’m with my “That Thing Called Tanga Na.” girl. That’s definitely my happiest. My saddest moments are being you can’t control? away from my parents.” “My temper, perhaps.” How • What’s the greatest thing that • How can you tell if you are you’ve done for love? seriously in love? “Maybe just giving my all, like “When every time you see that what I’m doing now.” • What kind of wedding do you person, you have butterflies in your stomach, like the first time you guys want to have, if and when? “I actually came from a wedding met. That’s when you know.” • How do you make a girl (in last night. It was a beautiful your case, Coleen) feel important? wedding — really intimate, friends “On a daily basis, you know, you and family. It wasn’t too glamorous. just got to give her compliments, be Of course, whatever my girl would really vocal and proud and shout to want for her wedding, especially the world that you love that girl.” since it’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing. • How do you mend a broken So, to sum it up, I want it simple heart (if ever you have experienced and intimate. That makes it more it)? meaningful.” “Stop, think and move the hell Where on.” • Where are you most at home

Sharon Cuneta teases fans about having ‘new figure’ ASIDE from high notes and impressive vocal intensity, “The Voice Kids” season 3 will also bring us Sharon Cuneta’s new, improved figure. On Wednesday, Aug. 10 the megastar shared on Facebook a post promoting the show, wherein she is one of the hosts, while teasing her fans about her slimmer physique. “Ang bago ko pong figure (NAKS! O ang aking bagong pagpayat ng konti) ay makikita niyo lang po sa Finals na ng ‘The Voice Kids 3’ sa Resorts World sa last two weekends ng August,” the caption reads. “Ang lalabas po sa TV this coming weekend ay matagal na po naming na-tape hindi po siya kailan lang kayo po medyo bachingching pa ako doon.” When Sharon was introduced as the new coach of the reality talent search competition in April, she announced that she’s working on her weight as preparation for her upcoming film with Direk Olive Lamasan, which will be shot in August. In June, Sharon announced she already lost a whopping 50 pounds. Sharon admitted in 2014 that she went through a “mid-life crisis,” which resulted to further weight gain. (Philstar.com)

A HUSBAND’S 30-YEAR-OLD “SECRET” ALMOST DERAILED THE FAMILY’S GREEN CARDS ON AN ENCORE EPISODE OF ‘CITIZEN PINOY.’ Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to revive Alice’s petition by her US citizen father, after it was terminated due to the petitioner’s death. The family was then eligible to get their visas years ahead of schedule by using the priority date of Alice’s Lebanese husband, Andre. But Andre refused to come to the US because of a “secret” he had kept for 30 years, preventing him from going back to the US. Atty. Gurfinkel worked “miracles” to resolve the mystery behind this fascinating success story, on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday, August 14 at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

The glitterati of the 2016... From Page 4 Top Alto Saxophonist Adam Hutcheson takes center stage together with the People’s Ball performers ready to add intensity and brilliancy to every single song and musical rendition. Adam’s innate ability to express his sentiments, emotions and soulful longings through playing his saxophone with such skillful style all his own is something worth listening to. While enjoying the reminiscence of the good old days and savoring the Roaring 20s Era, there are visibly new faces that

surely bring out dashes of sparkle and effervescence in contrasting effect. Young personalities who are encouraged to join the annual summer gala included: dusky beauty Shirley Escalada, reigning Miss Jersey City and about to compete for the Miss New Jersey crown soon; towering and swarthy budding ramp and print ad model Dominican Cesar Caceres; fresh angelic-face talent from Ecuador and a Business Management student from Manhattan DeVry University Marcelo Valarezo; and culinary assistant/dancer Emmanuel Sorza. Other than the mentioned

Calendar of Events across

local talents, special celebrity guests Julia Montes and Paulo Avelino will grace the event together with the best from the west coast: host-comedian Jojo Mabolo, Poka, and veteran belter Jo Awayan. The ever reliable lights and sounds services of Ernie Bugarin will definitely give the necessary boost to further heighten the spirit and vigor of the 2016 People’s Ball on Friday, August 12 at Double Tree By Hilton, 128 Frontage Road, Newark, New Jersey (07114). For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.

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ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS AU g U St 1 3

Disco Manila at LA’s Grand Performances Put on your boogie shoes and embrace the resurgence of disco from the Manila Sound era, the next wave of global groove music. Manila Sound was a catch all moniker during the ‘70s describing Philippine popular music that embraced its American soul/folk/pop/jazz influences, combined it with Filipino modern aesthetics and polished it off with the musical proficiency of the vibrant Manila scene that somehow flourished during the Marcos-era Martial Law. Live Performances of classic Disco dance floor fillers by the original purveyors of the sound and those who lived it. The event will begin at 8 p.m. at Grand Performances, located at 350 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90071. For more information, please visit http://grandperformances.org/disco-manila.

St. Philomena Parish celebrates 60th anniversary fiesta The St. Philomena Parish will celebrate its 60th anniversary fiesta on Saturday, Aug. 13. This grand parish celebration will be highlighted by a Eucharistic celebration, which will include the con-validation of marriages of our brothers and sister in conjunction with the Year of Mercy. Immediately after the Mass, a complimentary international potluck feast will be served, while enjoying the performances of talented entertainers from our parish and beyond. there will be an exciting drawing for a chance to win a brand new 2016 Mercedes Benz CLA 250! Consolation prizes include a round trip airline ticket from LAX to any destination; a 65” flat screen HDTV, a 15.6” laptop, 3 Blu Dual SIM Smartphone, and a colored HP printer. Visit the parish office today to pick up your tickets for a chance to win any of these prizes! Proceeds from the celebration will go toward much-needed upkeep and repairs for the church. The celebration will be held at St. Philomena Church at 21900 S. Main St., Carson, CA 90745 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more details, please contact the Parish Office at (310) 835-7161.

2016 Fiesta in America’s Expo and Cultural Show This annual event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 13, starting at noon and Sunday, Aug. 14, starting at 10 a.m. It will feature exhibitors and performers from the Philippines and other countries, a cooking show, free workshops, a food festival, and fun activities for all ages. This two-day event will be held at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Seacucus, New Jersey. For more information, please call 212-682-6610 or visit www.fiestainamerica.com.

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Katbaloganon Night Affair Celebration The Katbaloganon Association of the Midwest cordially invites you to the Katbaloganon Night Affair Celebration on Friday, Aug. 19 at 6pm at the Venuti’s Italian Restaurant and Banquet Hall (located at 2251 W Lake St. Addison, Illinois 60101). Tickets are available at $45 for adults and $20 for kids under 12 years old. For more information, you may contact Solly Cabral-Mendiola (773) 524-9285 or Rudy Mendiola (773) 698-9459

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ANCOP Walk New Jersey The ANCOP Walk brings together hundreds of participants across the U.S. and North America, walking together to help the poor in the Philippines and third world countries. ANCOP Foundation USA is a Christian based organization founded by the Couples for Christ which helps the very poor in the Philippines and other countries by providing support to select organizations that work for the poor. Current projects focus on child education sponsorship programs and values formation. Walkers’ participation and generosity in the ANCOP Walk will help provide quality education to children in poor communities. The organization serves the poor from all walks of life regardless of faith and denomination. The walk will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Liberty State Park in Jersey City. To register, please visit www.ancopusawalk.org; the registration fee is $15. For more information, please contact Jon Teves at jteves92@yahoo.com or Fernando Silva at frsilva99@gmail.com. “Ang bago ko pong figure (NAKS! O ang aking bagong pagpayat ng konti) ay makikita niyo lang po sa Finals na ng The Voice Kids 3 sa Resorts World sa last two weekends ng August,” said Sharon Cuneta on her Facebook page

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

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY Au g u ST 1 2 , 20 1 6

Expert Immigration

Green cards for thousands ‘out-of-status’ by waiver

pending or approved family-based, employment-based, or special immigrant visa petitions, or the diversity lottery, to secure a waiver A lAndmArk change has from the unlawful presence bar, been achieved in U.S. immigration upon exit from the United States. law for thousands of “TnT” Filipinos later, the foreign national may and other foreign nationals. secure his immigrant visa at the recent expansion of the Stateside Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver U.S. Consulate and return to the United States. In total, the person Program – known as the I-601A only spends several weeks outside Waiver Program – is finally a reality. the United States before returning. For years, we have successfully Upon re-entry into the United represented clients who are “outStates, the person is granted U.S. of-status” and “unlawfully present” green card status. inside the United States to secure Are you eligible? their I-601A waivers and, ultimately, To qualify, a person must have U.S. lawful permanent residency a U.S. citizen or green card holder – “green card” status. now, with the expansion of this valuable program, parent, wife or husband. It must be successfully argued by your attorney thousands more Filipinos and other that your relative will suffer “extreme foreign nationals inside the United hardship” if the waiver request is States may also secure their green not granted. The burden of proof cards. to establish “extreme hardship” is What is the I-601A Waiver high, but may be achieved if the Program? case is handled properly. The person It allows persons who are unlawfully present inside the United remains safely inside the United States for over 180 consecutive days, States, while applying for and securing their waiver. and are the beneficiaries of new,

Atty. Rio GueReRRo

Can I return to the united states? Because the person applies for and is granted his I-601A waiver while still inside the United States, the risk of travel overseas is significantly reduced. Our law firm has enjoyed tremendous success for clients over the past several years, since the initial waiver program began. While prior victories are not a guarantee of future results, an attorney should never start a client down a path that he does not feel supremely confident will result in approval. In fact, all of our clients who secured their I-601A waivers inside the United States, then exited the United States, and returned as green card holders. Thus, we know that this program works well, when navigated correctly. What should you do now? This expanded waiver program is incredibly valuable to so many thousands of our “TnT” kababayans – but also extremely complicated. This article provides necessary general information

about the waiver program. But if you believe that you or someone you know may be eligible, contact a qualified immigration attorney who has successfully navigated this challenging immigration process for many clients. That attorney should give you a detailed analysis and honest assessment of your opportunity to become a green card holder through the expanded I-601A Statewide Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver Program. *** Attorney Rio Guerrero is a proud secondgeneration Filipino American and the recipient of a coveted NAPABA “Best Lawyers” National Award in recognition of his success over the past 16 years, representing clients in all fifty United States and throughout the world with their U.S. immigration matters. He is a partner with the New York-based immigration law firm of Guerrero Yee LLP. He is also an Adjunct Immigration Law Professor at the CUNY School of Professional Studies in Manhattan. Atty. Guerrero is the President-Elect of the National Filipino American Lawyers Association (NFALA). You may contact him at rio@guerreroyee.com or (646)545-5000. (Advertising Supplement)

Twin Marquis, the leading Asian food manufacturer, announces easy-to-cook Japanese Style Ramen

rAmen! everyone’s eating it. And if somehow you’ve missed out, then don’t fret. Twin marquis, the Brooklyn-based Asian food company announces the launch of its Japanese style, easy-to-cook ramen noodles. With their fresh noodles and dumpling wrappers flying off the aisles in Asian food stores across the country, Twin marquis now also brings freshly prepared ramen noodles paired with concentrated sauce bases. Grab a pack and make yourself some fresh, tasty and healthy ramen right at home. With easy-to-follow instructions that take less than two minutes to prepare, the fresh noodles and sauce base combo comes in three different flavors – miso, tonkotsu, and shoyu. Unlike regular instant noodles, Twin marquis’ Japanese style ramen is freshly prepared and stored under refrigeration to retain its texture. Focusing

on high quality and flavor, the noodles are locally manufactured in new York and easily available in most Asian supermarkets around the east Coast. What’s more, the concentrated sauce base dilutes Continued on Page 7

Calidad Humana Celebrates The Filipino Spirit in Washington DC WASHInGTOn, dC – delegates and participants of the 2016 International Young leaders Assembly (IYlA) gathered at the romulo Hall of the Philippine embassy for a special reception and photo exhibit of the book, Calidad Humana: Sharing the Filipino Spirit in the evening of 10 August 2016. Calidad Humana or human compassion, defined as a positive and wholesome attitude towards others despite individual differences, is a remarkable quality that Filipinos are widely known for. Various photos from the Calidad Humana movement in the Philippines displayed at the romulo Hall showed the heartfelt concern, resilient spirit, and genuine smiles emanating from the Filipino spirit and that are an essential part of the Filipino culture. The embassy’s Chargé d’Affairés, minister Patrick Chuasoto, emphasized in his opening remarks how the photos speak about the Filipino’shumaness and how the youth can make use of their talents, skills, and knowledge to be of service

EMPLOYMENT

The Philippine Embassy welcomed the IYLA participants and delegates with a special reception and photo exhibit of the book,Calidad Humana: Sharing the Filipino Spirit at the Romulo Hall on 10 August 2016

to humanity. “Calidad Humana is to give priority to concern to others,” former Chilean Ambassador to the Philippines roberto mayorga who edited the book and spearheaded the Calidad Humana movement in the Philippines said in his remarks. Ambassador mayorga lived in the Philippines for six years and his first-hand experience of the positivity and strength of the Filipino character allowed him to

edit the book Calidad Humana: Sharing the Filipino Spirit and start the Calidad Humana movement that aims to preserve, share and spread the qualities of the Filipino spirit throughout the world. The Calidad Humana photo exhibit will also be featured during the IYlA on 8-12 August in Washington d.C. with the title, “IYlA 2016: Sharing the Filipino Heart for Peace in the World”. The said exhibit will serve as a venue to promote the

EMPLOYMENT

The Philippine Embassy’s Chargé d’Affairés, Minister Patrick Chuasoto delivered the opening remarks during the Calidad Humana photo exhibit and IYLA reception held at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy on 10 August 2016.

positive image of Filipinos to future leaders and young professionals from more than 30 countries in the world. “I fervently hope that IYlA’s 10-day interactive program here in the United States will not only provide you a first-hand experience on leadership but will also plant that seed of inspiration that will enable you to help create a safer and better world in the future,” minister Chuasoto said to the 2016 IYlA delegates present during the

(L-R) Prof. Felix Fuders, Ambassador Roberto Mayorga, Chargé d’Affairés and Minister Patrick Chuasoto, and Mr. John Dickson during the Calidad Humana photo exhibit and IYLA reception on 10 August 2016

reception. mr. John dickson, Co-Chair of the Host Committee of the 2016 IYlA gave the closing remarks and reminded the IYlA delegates of the importance of understanding their individuality and thinking about how they can contribute to their own countries and to the world. “What you are doing here, IYlA delegates, is very important in your self-realization, in your growth and patriotism for your own country,”

SERVICES

mr. dickson said. IYlA is a premier partnershipdriven leadership development initiative that empowers promising young leaders to positively impact communities, nations and the world. The exhibit and reception was organized with the support of the Office of the Undersecretary for International economic relations of the Philippine department of Foreign Affairs.

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2017 Miss Universe pageant to bring wonders to Philippine tourism The recent announcement by the Department of Tourism that the Philippines will host the next Miss Universe pageant in January 2017 is another bright news in what many in the tourism sector thinks would be another great year for the industry. As a major international event, it is definitely a big boost to country’s already booming tourism industry. The prestigious pageant will be held on January 30, 2017 at the Mall of Asia Arena. With this move, Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo has shown that under her leadership the department is ready to take on the challenges of continuing the progress made by the industry in the past several years. The secretary, whose experience in the tourism industry is first hand being a highly successful tour operator in Davao City, said she would continue her predecessor Secretary Ramon Jimenez’s program and slogan “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.” While Secretary Teo acknowledged the success of the “More Fun” brand in increasing awareness of the Philippines as a tourist destination, she said she’d look for a better campaign strategy to push the brand. “We will stick with ‘It’s More Fun in the Philippines’ slogan but we will come up with a better campaign strategy in the near future,” she said. She said she would meet with different travel and tour organizations, associations, local government units, accommodation and transport sectors to ensure close collaboration between the public and private sectors. Secretary Teo is also planning to meet with former tourism secretaries to get inputs on successful tourism programs. This bodes well for the industry as the secretary is seeking the counsel of those who have “been there, done that.” early in her term as tourism

chief executive, Secretary Teo’s deserves commendation for her efforts in having the Philippines host the prestigious and widely watched Miss Universe beauty pageant. The highly popular and prestigious pageant is watched all over the world by millions of viewers, who are all potential tourists to the Philippines. In addition, pre-event exposure for the Philippines is expected in the qualifying local pageants held in more than a hundred countries that send representatives to the beauty contest. During the pageant show itself, six Philippine destinations are assured of getting worldwide exposure -- Davao City, hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte; Cagayan de Oro, hometown of Miss Universe 2016 Pia Wurtzbach; Boracay and Cebu, which are in the Visayas; and Vigan and Palawan, which are in Luzon. however, the finale will definitely be held in the country’s capital city, Manila. Can you imagine the exposure that these prime Philippine destinations would get during the airing of the Miss Universe pageant? These places alone will show the world how beautiful the country is and that truly, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.” The tourism department should be grateful that the new administration decided to host the Miss Universe pageant because it will save the country millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent for advertising and promotions using various media platforms, such print, broadcast, television, and billboards in major cities across the world to further strengthen the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign, in addition to the various roadshow presentations that DOT offices overseas regularly conduct in partnership with leading wholesalers of airline tickets, travel agencies and tour organizers

Mr. Softy

A flourishing soft serve ice cream business

Y

OU probably heard the saying that buying happiness and buying ice cream is a kind of the same thing. And with Mr. Softy, normal days are always made special and sprinkled with bliss no matter what time of the year. A small family business Taking pride in its cool and sweet soft-serve ice cream treats, Mr. Softy started as a small family business in the Philippines back in 2000. It all started when Victorino “Vic” Isidro Perea decided to return to the Philippines after his two years of staying and working in the United States as the sales manager of Presto ice cream. he brought home with him a second-hand ice cream maker which he got for about $4,000. With everyone looking forward to a kind of dessert when all sorts of ice cream flavors and combinations would be served, requests from friends and neighbors inspired Perea to pursue ice cream production. Being once a sales manager of an ice cream company, selling ice cream is not much of a new and challenging task for Perea. During those days, it become so popular that his family decided to turn it into a business. In the same year, Perea’s family rented out a two square meter space at the nearby public market of Sta. elena in Makati for P9,000, starting off with five flavors in rotation from a single machine. Perea didn’t expect to draw long queues of people in their first day. Since the stall was located within the rice section, the long file of people that blocked the stalls of rice vendors complained to them. They

initially asked their customers to line up by the pedestrian lane but for Perea, this too was not fair to the pedestrians. And so, to meet the demands of their faithful customers, the company began opening outlets in other wet markets, taking the first step in expanding their humble business. Their strategic location attracted market goers with some loose change who wanted to treat their children with ice cream. A year after their business opening, Perea decided to set up a dealership network. The company sold ice cream machines and provided their dealers with supply of raw materials. They initially grew to a network of 120 outlets in just a span of two years. eventually, the company changed the network to franchising programs. Right now, after 16 years, Mr. Softy stands as the pioneer and leading soft-serve ice cream company in the Philippines. Expansion of treats Mr. Softy’s premium products continue to draw crowds everyday because of its delicious, and creamy taste, not to mention that their products are definitely affordable treats. Currently, Mr. Softy Ice cream is present within over 72 outlets nationwide in the Philippines and is unceasingly expanding as the company continually seeks strategic alliances with malls like SM, Robinsons and other major malls and establishments in the Philippines. Mr. Softy is now taking another big step as the company plans to spread the joy of soft-serve ice cream outside the country. (Advertising Supplement)

to launch promotional and marketing projects This is the third time that the country is hosting the Miss Universe pageant. The Philippines hosted the pageant in 1974 for first time. It was also the first time the pageant was held in Asia. The event, held on July 21, 1974 at the Folk Arts Theater in Manila, had the reigning 1973 Miss Universe, Margie Moran of the Philippines turned over the crown to her successor, Amparo Munoz of Spain. In January, reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach will turn over her crown to the winner. The last time the Philippines hosted the pageant was in 1994, when India’s Sushmita Sen was crowned Miss Universe. Both events, held 20 years apart, tremendously boosted tourist arrivals to the country and created awareness of the Philippines vast tourism potentials. Tourism industry players are excited over the opportunities that the Miss Universe pageant will open to them. The exposure that the Philippines will get in just one event could very well equal or even exceed the results brought by the marketing campaign for four years under the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.” According to a Philippine Star news report published on July 29, Secretary Teo “gave assurance that the private sector has volunteered to cover the $11-million funding needed to host the event.” “The government is not going to spend a single centavo on it, it will be the private sector that will shoulder the expenses,” the report quoted her as saying. In addition, while the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” promotional campaign reached limited markets in europe, North America and Asia, the Miss Universe pageant is expected to create awareness about the Philippines worldwide as millions are expected to watch the

Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo

pageant itself and millions more reading about the Philippines in pre-event publicity. With the worldwide buzz that is associated with the holding of the Miss Universe beauty pageant in the Philippines, various DOT offices overseas will have an unprecedented boost to their efforts in promoting Philippine tourist destinations to their respective jurisdictions. Right now the full attention of the key players in the travel and tour industry are focused on the Department of Tourism, and are optimistic that Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo will succeed in taking the Philippine tourism industry to new heights. In the meantime, tourism stakeholders should take advantage of the media mileage that the Miss Universe pageant will generate to aggressively promote the Philippines as an exciting tourist destination. This is the kind of partnership between the government and the private sector that the tourism secretary is hoping to forge to promote Philippine tourism. *** Manny V. Ilagan is a Tourism Specialist with over 23 years professional experience in the overseas tourism and travel industry. He is currently the Director for Business Development and Marketing of GTT International/Majestic Vacations, one of the biggest airlines consolidators in the United States, and wholesaler of package tours worldwide. He also provides travel consultancy

File photo of reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach during a parade in Makati’s financial district shortly after winning the Miss Universe title in 2015. services to some of the biggest wholesalers and tour operators in the country as well as to some airline companies. He is the former Tourism Director-OIC of the Philippine Department of Tourism-Los Angeles, where he worked for over two decades. As a writer, he has written numerous articles about travel

and tourism, which have been published in various Filipino-American newspapers in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Las Vegas and New York, and other Manilabased newspapers as well. For comments or questions, you may reach him at manilagan@ gmail.com.

Twin Marquis, the leading Asian... From Page 6 with water to lend the ramen a robust, and authentic taste that can match a restaurant quality meal. Twin Marquis Japanese Style Ramen like all products from the company stable are OU-Certified (Kosher), and manufactured in a USDA facility to ensure food safety and quality assurance. It contains low sodium, which is perfectly suited for the modern lifestyle of Chinese consumers and provides a healthier alternative to eating out. Additionally, its attractive Japanese screen packaging allows a peek at the freshness of its springy noodles. Whether you’re a busy professional or a mom with her hands full, now you don’t have to rush to a restaurant every time you have a ramen craving.

You can just as easily create an authentic Japanese style ramen experience right in your kitchen, in no time at all. Affordably priced at $3.99 a packet, the Ramen comes with two individual portions and two separate sauce concentrations. For beginner chefs, eager to try Asian delicacies at home, Twin Marquis Ramen is the perfect gateway – all the flavor minus any of the hassle. About Twin Marquis Inc. Twin Marquis Inc. (TMI) has been manufacturing a wide variety of noodles and wrappers for over 25 years. The TMI journey began in a 3,000 square feet facility located in Chinatown, and are now housed in Brooklyn. TMI also produces a full lines of appetizers that include dumplings, spring & egg rolls, sui mei’s, etc. under the brand “Chef One”.

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Tired of taking your daily multivitamins? Sick of eating the same old fruits and vegetables? AcAi hAS All The heAlThy nuTriTion your body needS. DeeP within the vast and abundant confines of the Amazon rainforest, grows one of the world’s most ultimate superfoods, Acai, (ä-sä-e). The Acai tree, a unique type of palm tree, grows within the rich and fertile soil of earth’s largest rainforest—an immense jungle spanning eight countries in South America. Native only to this land, Acai cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. This shade-loving plant can stand up to 25 m tall, forming large groves throughout the lowland flood areas along the rivers. Acai trees produce small, round berries about 1-2 cm in diameters. each tree commonly produces four to eight bunches of fruit that can weigh up to 6 kg, emerging green and ripening to dark purple between July and December during the harvest season. Natives collect the berries daeep in the heart of the Amazon rainforest and transport it through rivers and boats for there are no roads leading to mother nature’s superfood.

God Given Grace

Elton and Cathy Salimbangon, The Founders of Organique Inc. by

Dana SioSon AJPress

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here are countless stories of triumph and success where the protagonist is faced with immense challenge and hardship—that indeed the roads to success are never smooth and that storms even visit the calmest of seas. For childhood sweethearts, elton and Cathy Salimbangon, the founders of Organique, a leading manufacturer of Acai products, their story is no different.

“Now we realize. When we try to connect the dots moving backward, we now understand why we came back in the Philippines. Everything is a blessing” -Cathy Salimbangon

FROM SCRATCH For 15 years, elton and Cathy lived modestly in the United States. elton was working in a manufacturing company that produces healthy beverages while Cathy was working as a registered nurse in Southern California. It was in mid-2008 when elton watched a Television program featuring the superfood acai berry and its health benefits. When he reported back to his boss, he was told that the company was already developing an acai based drink. Since this first acai product failed, elton asked his boss if he could reformulate it. And he did, despite not having a background in food and business manufacturing—he was an IT major. But he diligently worked with the research and development team to help him with the acai product in exchange of his expertise with computers. “We started from scratch. We started from acai berry. Acai berry is very bitI was asking r&B. We put on ter but I was some apple juice and put in thinking some other mixes until we ‘Filipino’. It finally got the consistency has to be a right,” elton said. sustainable It took several months to taste--not create the amazing, delecbland or table taste that Organique anything. is known for today. And it was also after the long and intensive research and development’s success when they faced their first problem: how do we sell this? In October 2008, Cathy and their kids went back to the Philippines. elton sent her the concoction he created--a small white bottle with no name nor any labels. “We have to sell it, so I start with friends. It’s hard because the acai is new and it’s expensive,” Cathy admitted. elton was really surprised when he learnt from his wife that their product was acknowledged. And with that, Organique, Inc. started to take form as Cathy started selling it to her family and friends. STARTING UP early on, elton purchased excess acai berries from the company he worked at, but as his own product expanded, he had no

choice but to invest and buy thousands of gallons. The shipping overhead alone was incredibly costly starting out. But in the true entrepreneurial spirit, elton believed in his vision. “At that time we didn’t have anything at all. We didn’t know anything. We didn’t have the money to start,” elton confessed. When they decided to relocate in the Philippines in 2009, they set up a small office in the corner of their house made of concrete and wood, and without even paint. Unable to afford brand labels for their product, they simply started with stickers as labels. Bringing the product to market was a challenging task. The product was new, hard to pronounce, and at the same time, very expensive. Some of their clients even asked why they don’t just go back to States instead of facing ordeals in putting up a business that was not even their forte. In the Philippines, they first introduced their product in Cebu since they were also from Cebu, going door to door, and clinic to clinic just to introduce their product. elton and Cathy believed that Cebuanos are difficult to please. They described Cebuanos as thrifty. But they knew that if Cebuanos appreciated their product, it means their product can be appreciated in other places as well. Several months later, they expanded into Manila which was quite challenging because not only did they have no network, but their family had no experience in this kind of business. Suddenly, faced with rising debt, they were no longer able to pay

for production costs. “I really thought I made a mistake in putting up the business,” elton admitted as he expressed how difficult it is for him and his family. But they never forget to always pray and ultimately, God provided them with what they needed at exactly the time they needed it most. WHEN DILIGENCE BEARS FRUITS Faced with rising debt and stress, elton and Cathy pushed through and persevered—constantly attending networking events. At one of these events, they were introduced to Cory Quirino, who it just so happens, was actually looking for an acai product but couldn’t find it anywhere in the Philippines. Flabbergasted by this chance meeting, Cory invited elton and Cathy to be guests on her radio show. Soon thereafter, they were approved to distribute at Watsons, one of the largest health and beauty stores in the Philippines. “Our label is made of sticker. We were delighted that they accepted our product because for me, it was really unappealing. But it’s the only thing we can afford,” elton said. And then suddenly, they started getting featured on TV shows and some of their celebrity customers even advertise their products free of charge because of the product’s high quality and health benefits. Since then, they continue to expand their product and promote healthy living to their fellow Filipinos. Despite the difficulties, the testimonials they received from their clients made them inspired to push through. ORGANIQUE NOW From a simple experiment, Organique has now grown into a full fledged multinational corporation, continuing the promise to bring the best quality and standard of their acai products to their customers. “We came from a very quality company and we also want to bring the quality that we have. We are very brand conscious. The quality. We’re looking at the quality,” elton emphasized. Their acai products are now available in Watsons, Mercury Drug, robinsons Supermarket and Southstar Drugstore nationwide. Originally starting in the Philippines, Organique now holds several markets in the US, hong Kong, and Middle east; and is rapidly expanding. elton and Cathy are now looking forward to developing Organique Acai into tablets to make it more available and easily accessible. As for now, Organic Acai maintains a successful manufacturing plant in California. “The standards. No matter what, that’s the standard. You cannot go below your standards. That’s why when we first started our product, it should not go down. It should be more, always improving.” elton affirmed. At first, elton and Cathy thought they made a mistake in starting their business after facing difficulties one after another. But as they overcome all the trials, they started to see that everything was actually God given grace.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ACAI Acai berries are known to have long been a staple to the diet of the indigenous people of Brazil. Traditionally, the natives also value Acai for health by using the oil of the fruit to treat diarrhea, and the toasted and crushed seeds of the fruit to treat fever. For centuries, the fruit is known for its health benefits and other healing capabilities. Lately, Acai started claiming the “superfood” status, gaining fame not only in the United States but around the world as well. hidden within its purple pigment is a powerful substance that helps prevent cell damage-- antioxidants. Acai berries are very rich in antioxidants, a very important compound that stables the oxidants in our body that can cause wide range of illness and chronic disease if left unbalanced. Acai has ten times more vital antioxidants than grapes and in fact, richer than other common fruits and vegetables combined. Due to its high antioxidant content, Acai helps in our body’s detoxification, giving skin a healthier glow. Since it prevents cell damage, it slows down the aging process related to oxidative damage, and flourishes our skin to a more youthful complexion-a fine and natural solution against dull skin, fine lines and wrinkles. rich in Vitamin C and ellagic acid, Acai is an immunestimulating fruit, boosting our immune system and keeping our cells strong to fight off harmful radicals that enter our body. The detoxification abilities of Acai also play an important role for healthier digestion by keeping our digestive system clean. Aside from antioxidants, Acai possesses dietary fibers that aid in weight loss. These fibers do not only help in losing weight but help in maintaining healthy weight as well. And because Acai is natural, it does not give off harmful effects, making it a perfect alternative to other chemically manufactured products. Acai berries are also rich in anthocyanin, a compound that has the ability to lower the body’s level of cholesterol. The plant sterol in Acai lowers blood pressure, prevents blood clots and improves blood circulation, and at the same time, keeps our cells strong to fight against harmful radicals that enters our body. Anthocyanin also promotes the reduction of risks related to heart problems, cognitive decline, and even cancer. According to a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, the polyphenol compounds in Acai reduces cancer proliferation by 56-86%. Acai berries may not be a cure for cancer but it halts the carcinogenesis process on a molecular level, neutralizing these deadly cells before they multiply. Acai also contains calcium that maintains healthy teeth and gums, preventing gingivitis and other common gum disease. It also contains amino-acids that bolster energy and help in strength recovery while the beta carotene in Acai also aids in eye health. ORGANIQUE ACAI PREMIUM BLEND With all the nutrients contained in Acai berries, different nutraceutical companies now process it into different products marketed all over the world. however, Organique Acai Premium Blend is the highest quality of any Acai products on the market today. Manufactured by Organique Inc., Organique Acai Premium Blend is a proud Filipino made product that brings these super berries from the deep jungles of the Amazon to the palm of your hand. What differentiates Organique from other acai berry products is that their juice contains the highest concentration of Acai. Passing the United States Department of Agricul- ture’s strict and rigid stan- dards, Organique is USDA approved. 95% of all the con- tents and ingredients of the products are certified as organ- ic. Unlike when you take medicine, Organique Acai Premium Blend has no negative effects on your liver. Its nutrients go directly into the bloodstream. Organique’s manufacturing facility is located in California. Their products are made of natural, wild harvested Açaí berries from the Belém region in the State of Pará, Brazil. The company always assures the implementation of its strict regulation on food quality and safety. According to Cathy Salimbangon, vice president of Organique Inc., Or- ganique Acai Premium Blend is best drank early in the morning on an empty stomach. The recommended dose is 30-60 ml per day, depend- ing on the health conditions of the person. There’s no age limit as well. Since it’s a natural juice, it is safe for kids to enjoy. You can also drink it with water, with ice, or add it to your smoothie. Completely natural and completely safe, a drink of Organique Acai Pre- mium blend is a start of a new and healthy lifestyle. With all the prod- ucts going through extensive re- search, Organique brings out the best of Acai berries to spread wellness and fresh transformation.

An Asian Journal

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY AuguST 12, 2016

An Asian Journal

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