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Volume 11 – Issue 02 • 16 Pages
O C T O BE R 2 0 - 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
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USA
DATELINE Trump to hold meeting with Duterte in Manila FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
PRESIDENT Donald Trump is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with President Rodrigo Duterte and other leaders as he visits Manila next month. The Philippines would be one of Trump’s stops as he embarks on his Asian trip from November 3 to 14, the White House said. The American leader is expected to arrive in Manila on November 12 to attend the special gala celebration dinner for the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The Philippine government earlier said that Trump will receive a “very warm welcome in Manila.” “President Duterte is looking forward to welcoming President Trump in Manila. Our people are excited to see the first face-to-face
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Stockton’s Filipino community center vandalized during Fil-Am History Month THE Little Manila Center in Stockton, California was vandalized on Monday, October 9, as the Filipino-American community joined others throughout the United States in celebrating Fil-Am History Month. “We do not know why someone would deface our windows and rip the historic photographs of our community from the Little Manila Center entrance,” read a statement issued by the Little Manila Center Board. Brian Batugo, a teacher and arts director at the center, was running a bit late to dance practice when he received a Facebook message by one of the student’s parents, notifying him of the vandalism. Shortly after, a student sent him a photo. “One of my students had tears in her eyes,” Batugo told the Asian Journal, detailing that he found his students — many of whom were also taking an ethnic studies class at the center — shocked and upset.
Pres. Duterte dares West to help PH, spearhead drug war in ‘civilized way’ “lead role” to deal with the Philippines’ problems, particularly on cracking down illegal drugs. PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has “Tell us if you are ready to deal with no qualms with any Western coun- the problem, I’d be happy to order tries lending the Philippines a hand my soldiers and my policemen just to in solving its problems as long as it is relax. And if any western country is done in a “civilized way.” interested to do it the civilized way, A sardonic Duterte on Thursday, then come. I am inviting you to join October 19 said he would be glad the fray,” he said. to appoint any Western country the Otherwise, foreign countries should by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
by MOMAR
repeatedly denied the existence of the supposed state-sanctioned killings. Duterte accused foreign nations, including human rights organizations, of supposedly interfering the domestic affairs of the Philippines whenever it criticizes the campaign. The president also lamented at how most dead bodies in the Philippines
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G. VISAYA
AJPress
NEW YORK - “Napapraning na sila at kung anu-ano na ang iniisip. Nandito tayo, we are trying to be informed dito sa forum na in-organize dito sa Columbia University,” Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV told a handful of FilAm media on the sidelines of the Watching the Philippines, Reporting Duterte conference held at the Columbia University Journalism School on Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV Wednesday, Oct. 18. AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya He was responding to questions on why he is in the United States. His critics say that he is the country to speak with the CIA. Sen. Trillanes was among the attendees of the conference which featured New York Times photojournalist Daniel Berehulak, who won his second Pulitzer Prize for his work in documenting the war on drugs in Manila. The two-day conference, attended by more than a
AMIDST a fiesta themed celebration, the general public welcomed the rebirth of the “Bring Home A Friend” to the Philippines (BHAF), aimed to help raise inbound tourism figures and spur more economic activity. The grand relaunch of BHAF was held at the Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila complete
PRISON CHECK. President Rodrigo Duterte talks to inmates during his visit to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City on Wednesday, October 18. Duterte said that he was already working to give detainees their needs, but in the meantime, he would provide television sets to each jail cell by the end of the month. Malacañang photo by King Rodriguez
US gov’t praises PH military for Hapilon, Maute deaths by ROSETTE
ADEL
Philstar.com
THE United States on Tuesday, Oct. 17 lauded
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Tourism Sec. Teo revives ‘Bring Home A Friend’ program to increase inbound tourist traffic
DFA photo
“at least be educated” in their assessment of how the Philippines was conducting its war on drugs, Duterte remarked. In a speech at a high-level Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) forum in Pasay City, Duterte slammed anew the “Western world” for repeatedly denouncing the drug war over its alleged police abuses. But the administration, for its part,
Trillanes reiterates his challenge to Duterte: Sign the waiver
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Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo announces to the media the official start of the “Bring Home A Friend” campaign which will run from October 15, 2017 up to April 15, 2018.
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
with Higantes dancers, other cultural performers and renowned Original Pilipino Music (OPM) artists. “Tonight marks an important milestone for all of us in the Department of Tourism as we unveil the most anticipated return of a widely successful incentive travel program which was first
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fully neutralizing terror leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. In a statement, U.S. Embassy in Manila press attaché Molly Koscina expressed how the Philippines’ longtime ally is proud to support the counter-terrorism efforts in Mindanao. “We congratulate our partners in the Armed Forces of the Philippines for their reported success in killing two of the leaders behind the months-long clash in Marawi: Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute,” Koscina said. “The U.S. is proud to support the AFP’s counterterrorism efforts in Mindanao through intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, and other technical assistance,” she added. Hapilon and Maute were killed in a military operation before dawn on Monday, Oct. 16, signaling the approaching end of a months-long campaign to rid the Islamic city of extremist militants. Hapilon had long been on the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation’s list of most wanted terror-
Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute were killed by soldiers in Marawi City, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Monday, Oct. 16. Inquirer.net photos
ists. The U.S. Department of State had offered $5 million for information leading to his capture. Maute, meanwhile, was a figurehead of the proIslamic State Maute group along with his brother, Abdullah, who was reported killed in September. The two led a group that attempted to lay siege on the city in May. President Rodrigo Duterte announced that the
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PH nabs top 3 spots in Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo world’s best islands list Cardinal Vidal passes away at 86 by OLIVIA
ESTRADA Inquirer.net
CONDÈ Nast Traveler declares Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan as the top three best islands in the world respectively. Boracay is the first on the list given its “gentle coastlines and transportative sunsets.” It also Tourists enjoy the pristine waters and powdery white sand near the Station 1 grotto of Boracay got a nod for its popping nightbeach. Boracay remained the best island in the world, based on the latest survey conducted life. Cebu and the Visayan islands by international travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler. Inquirer.net photo
came in second and are revered for its more “personal” vibe along with how it is the hub for up-and-coming restaurants. Speaking of which, may we suggest The Pig and Palm? Rounding up the top three is Palawan, which Travel + Leisure declares as the best island in their list. For Condè Nast, it’s a must-visit because of the Puerto
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by NESTOR
CORRALES Inquirer.net
CEBU CITY — The country’s champion of peace is gone. Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal died at the Intensive Care Unit of the Perpetual Succour Hospital in Cebu City at 7:28 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18, surrounded by some priests and his Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal
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Vidal
Inquirer.net photo
A october 20-26, 2017 • NeW YorK AND NeW JerSeY ASIAN JoUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
From the Front Page
Pres. Duterte dares West to help... PAGE A1 t appear to be a result of “extrajudicial killings.” “In my country today, when somebody there lies dead, it is always an extrajudicial killing. If there is no suspect that can be pointed at, it is extrajudicial killing,” he remarked. “All killings whether perpetrated by a state or by the ordinary citizen, is always extrajudicial. In the sense that it is not the property of a court and to discuss the matter of how hu-
man being should be killed or not,” he added. While the drug war may not be to the satisfaction of his critics, Duterte noted that “there are things that we have to do because we have to do it.” He pointed out that “all countries suffer from social problems” and the “Philippines is no exception.” “Plenty,” the president added. “But we try to correct it along the way with meager resources and certainly not or cannot
adopt the way they term it as the principle doctrines on how to deal with a democratic problem in a democratic state.” Duterte likewise called on the West to respect Philippine sovereignty. “These are the things that I would like to address myself now to the Western world. Please do not impose your will on us. Do not derogate our sovereignty by lecturing on us, the civilities of a country which we turn a democratic state,” he said. n
US gov’t praises PH military for Hapilon... PAGE A1 t
ing foreign militants including a besieged city is now free from Malaysian recruiter in Marawi. Koscina, meanwhile, said the terrorists on its 148th day of armed conflict. The military, U.S. will continue coordination however, said it was still pursu- with the local government.
“We will continue working with our Filipino friends, partners and allies to eradicate violent extremism and terrorism,” she added. n
Trillanes reiterates his challenge... PAGE A1 t hundred academicians, students, artists and New York-based journalists, focused on the various aspects of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration particularly its war on drugs. “I was able to understand the issue from a purely academic perspective. All this time, I was immersed deeply with what was happening and I was trying to strip it down to the bare essence. I appreciate the academic perspective, how everything was broken down and psycho analyzed,” he said. “My focus is on accountability. Duterte killed people and he ordered people to be killed and he has to answer for all those crimes.” Trillanes said he met with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio in his Washington D.C. office on Tuesday, Oct. 17 to discuss Philippine-US relations. Sen. Rubio’s office tweeted about the meeting at 2:17 pm on Tuesday. The tweet read “Senator @TrillanesSonny & I discussed U.S.-#Philippines alliance, combating corruption & protecting #humanrights amid their narcotics crisis.” As of Thursday, the tweet has reached almost 2,000 comments, mostly from supporters of President Duterte who are calling Trillanes a “pathological liar and
ECO-FRIENDLY JEEPNEY. Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Chairman Martin Delgra III (at driver’s seat) in a signature pose of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte during the 1st Philippine Auto Parts Expo (Philapex) at the Philippine Trade Training Center in Pasay City. The PHILAPEX featured 16 prototypes from different car makers for the PUV modernization program. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
Tourism Sec. Teo revives... PAGE A1 t launched by former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor in 1994, the Bring Home a Friend,” said DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo. The BHAF is a rewards program which seeks to promote travel to the Philippines by encouraging Filipinos or expatriates in the Philippines to invite friends from abroad with the lure of prizes for both “sponsor” and “invitee”. By simply following four simple steps: Invite, Accept, Travel and Register, any eligible ‘spon-
However, he went on and reiterated his challenge to the president. other purposes. “Bilang senador, kailangan kong According to reports in Manila, Foreign Affairs secretary maging boses. Yan ang aking manAlan Peter Cayetano said that dato. Obligado tayong gawin ang Trillanes’ trip to the U.S. was nararapat,” Trillanes said. “Maradone “in good faith” and a “nor- mi na akong tinindigan, they can check my track record.” mal engagement.” “By challenging Duterte to dis“Although it’s a free world, it doesn’t help the country if there prove my allegations, by signing is misinformation, disinforma- the waiver, bibigyan ko siya ng tion and especially falsehood,” premium. Kapag binuksan niya at mali ako, mag-re-resign ako, Cayetano added. Pressed further about what he magpapakulong ako. Ako mismo, discussed with Sen. Rubio and mag-wo-walk-in sa kulungan. So if he met with the CIA, Trillanes kung problema ang tingin niya sa said he was “not at liberty to di- akin, that is the quickest way to deal with me.” n vulge” further information.
Sen. Antonio Trillanes with U.S. Senator Marco Rubio after their meeting in Washington, DC.
traitor” and a “treasonous SOB”. Sen. Rubio, along with Democrat counterpart Sen. Ben Cardin, introduced to the Senate last May S.1055 or “The Philippines Human Rights Accountability and Counter Narcotics Act of 2017”. The bill seeks to restrict the exportation of certain defense articles to the Philippine National Police, to work with the Philippines to support civil society and a public health approach to substance abuse, to report on Chinese and other sources of narcotics to the Republic of the Philippines, and for
FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS
( Mt Carmel, Mt Beatitude, Mt.Tabor, Cana, Capernum, Nazareth, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem Qumran, Masada, Jericho )
Dec 3 to 14, 2017
Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Alvin Cachola
sor’ and ‘invitee’ can join. Program mechanics are available at the www.bringhomeafriend. online. Ms. Mina Gabor expressed excitement and high esteem that the project she initiated 23 years ago has come back to life. She has high hopes of its success as the current situation is more enabling now given that more prizes are at stake and more importantly, through digital and social media, activation and promotion is a lot easier. The sponsors were thanked through plaques of appreciation awarded by the Secretary and other DOT officials. Partner sponsors include Megaworld Corporation, Toyota Motor Philippines, Philippine Airlines, Duty Free Philippines, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Tourism Promotions Board, El Nido Hotel and Resort, JPark Island Resort and Water Park Cebu and Pearl Farm Beach Resort. Providing entertainment were hosts Randy Santiago and Jimmy Bondoc together with the Sabado Boys, Mitoy Yonting and the Aegis band. Acclaimed actor Piolo Pascual was tapped to sing the jingle, introduced as the newest Tourism Ambassador. He was, however,
unable to join last night’s event. “We are looking at positive reaction from the United States, Japan, Middle East and Hong Kong as these are the places where a lot of Filipino communities are. Eventually, we hope to spur more travel from other areas, the tourism chief said “Bring Home a Friend is our shout-out to the world to come and see the Philippines: a country of diverse cultures, rich traditions, and unrivaled biodiversity,” the Secretary added. Participating officers from the different tourism industry associations, foreign diplomatic community, congress, support government agencies and media promised to give their all-out support to the program. For more information, log on to www.bringhomeafriend. online via DOT’s website www. tourism.gov.ph or visit the Department of Tourism Facebook page and Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube accounts. Kindly like, follow, and support the official BHAF social media accounts: Facebook: bringhomeafriendPH Twitter: bringhomePH Instagram: bringhomeafriendPH Email: bringhomeafriend@ tourism.gov.ph Hashtag: #BHAF2 #bringhomeafriend n
Italia� Pilgrimag� Ho�� �eek� March 23 to April 3,2018 Spiritual Director : TBA
Day 1 - March 23, 2018 (Fri) Los Angeles, California to Venice, Italy Trans-Atlantic flight from LAX to LHR connect to our flight to Venice (Meals served in-flight)
Day 2 - March 24, 2018 (Sat) Venice, Italy 3 DEC-Day 1 - (Sun) LAX/TLV On board meals are served
4 DEC-Day 2 - (Mon) - Arrive at Ben Gurion airport Tel-Aviv/Tiberias
After you have finished Immigration, collect Luggage then Meet our guide and driver. Transfer to Tiberias , Dinner /overnight Gai Beach Hotel
After we clear Immigration & Custom, we will meet our Tour Director and driver for our transfer to our hotel,. Dinner at the hotel.( Dinner) If time permit, discover the most romantic views of Venice on foot and from the comfortable seats of a gondola, spend some time gliding through the cities peaceful canals.
Day 3 – March 25, 2018 (Sun) Venice, Italy
Holy Eucharist at the Church of annunciation “And Mary said, Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” We head to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed the first miracle – changing water into wine at the wedding feast. Here, we’ll invite couples to renew their marriage vows. Continue to Nazareth, Celebrate Holy Eucharist at the Church of Annunciation, visit St Joseph workshop. We return to Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
The greatness of Venice has always been reflected in the richness of St. Mark’s Basilica, the perfect synthesis of Venetian art and a unique blend of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic elements. Five Oriental-looking domes crown the shadowy, mysterious interior gleaming with golden mosaics, colored marbles, precious stones and pearls, and guarded by the four gilded bronze horses that stand proudly atop the central entrance. The glittering mosaics of the interior tell the story of St. Mark and episodes from the Bible. It’s most famous treasure stands behind the altar in the sanctuary - the Pala D’Oro, a golden altar screen encrusted with jewels We’ll visit theDoge’s Palace, the magnificent VenetianGothic building from where the leaders of the former Venetian Republic ruled until the late 18th century. Head inside and explore the grandiose public chambers that the doges lavished with fine art and ornamentation. Masterpieces by Renaissance champions.(BB,D) Holy Mass at St. Marks Basilica.
07 Dec-Day 5 - (Thurs) Mt Tabor/Mt Beatitude/Capernum/ Sea of Galilee/Tabgha
Day 4 - March 26, 2018 (Mon) Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
5 DEC-Day 3 - (Tues) Cesarea /Haifa
There was a certain man in Caesarea” Drive north to the sparkling port city of Haifa, viewing Caesarea en route, the city built by Herod. In Haifa, we will ascend Mt. Carmel; home of the two prophets Elijah and Elisha, Visit the Stella Maris Church celebrate Holy Mass in the main Altar, after enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean, continue to Tiberias for dinner and overnight. Gai Beach Hotel (BB,D)
6 DEC-Day 4 - (Wed) - Tiberias/ Cana/ Nazareth
We drive to Mount Tabor, celebrate Holy Eucharist at the church of Transfiguration, Visit Mt. of Beatitudes the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
08 DEC-Day 6 - (FRI)-Jordan valley/Jericho/Bethany/Jerusalem
After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July 1916 until his death on 23 September 1968. Sit back, relax and enjoy the drive and take in the picturesque scenery along the way. We will reach our hotel in San Giovanni Rotondo in the afternoon. Will have panoramic sightseeing on the way to our hotel,(BB,D).
Day 5 - March 27,2018 (Tues) San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
Drive the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest inhabited city in the world. View the Mount of temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert. Visit the ancient ruins of the wall. Drive through Wadi Welt to view St George’s Monastery. Continue to Bethany celebrate Holy Eucharist, and then visit the tomb of Lazarus. Arrive in Mount Scopus; enjoy the first view of Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at Notre DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
We begin the day by celebrating Holy Eucharist. Eucharist,. Followed by a short film about St. Padre Pio.Done by our local guide who are very knowledgeable about the life of St. Padre Pio. We’ll start our visit with the Old Church.Here you can see his cell, his confessional box, the crucifix from which he received the stigmata, and nearly everything he owned or touched, carefully preserved and labeled. Then will visit the New Basilica, Santa Maria delle Grazie (Our Lady of Grace) dedicated to Padre Pio. (BB,D)
09 DEC-Day 7 - (Sat) - Jerusalem (old City) - Via Dolorosa
Day 6 March 28,2018 (Wed)San Giovanni Rotondo
Holy Sepulcher Church “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place of a skull, which was called in Hebrew Golgotha” Enter the old city of Jerusalem, Sing a hymn in the Church of St Anne and view the pool of Bethesda. Visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Lithostrotos, where the soldiers played the Game of Kings, and Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) to the holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the tomb of Our Lord. This afternoon drive to Mount Zion, to visit the upper room, revered as the site of the last supper. Then survey the Dormition Abbey’s, St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME Vatican Hotel (BB.D)
Holy Eucharist in the Morning in the New Basilica.followed by Station of the Cross. Rest of day spend Praying and meditating (BB,D)
10 DEC-Day 8 - (SUN) - Mount of Olives/Gethesemane/Bethlehem/New City
Day 8 - March 30 2018 (Fri) Assisi to Florence (Good Friday)
Holy Eucharist celebration at the Church of all nations Main altar Arrive at the Mount of Olives and enjoy the beautiful view of Jerusalem. Visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit Church”God wept “& walk the Palm Sunday road to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of all Nations. This Afternoon drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name the whole world recognizes ,visit the Church of Nativity, the manger, Church of St Catherine, The Grotto of St Jerome, and the shepherds fields. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB ,D).
11 DEC-Day 9 - ( MON) - Jerusalem/Dead Sea/Qumran/Masada
Visit the Western Wall , the only part of the Herodian temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. We drive to Dead Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem Overnight Notre Dame Vatican Hotel (BB,D)
12 DEC-Day10 - (TUE) Jerusalem New City
Return to the new City, Including the Temple Model to see a scale model of Jerusalem as it was during the time of Jesus. Here we will have a better understanding between old and New Jerusalem. Next to Ein Karem, birthplace of St John the Baptist, visit the Visitation church where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat Overnight NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
13 Dec-Day 11 - (WED) Jerusalem/TLV/LAX
Breakfast rest of the morning Free time early PM dinner has to check out from the hotel, around 8:30 PM flight from TLV/ LAX in the 13 Dec flight depart TLV at 1:00 Am Dec 14,2017 ( end of Service )
Day 7 – March 29, 2018 (Thur) San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena, Italy
After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena. We will begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of Renaissance art and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena. You’ll learn about the city’s history while admiring its cathedrals, museums, and libraries. Then admire famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares.(BB,D) Continue to Assisi overnight /Dinner Celebrate Holy Eucharist in the Crypt where the tomb of the most beloved saints is located ,after Mass visit the Basilica of St Francis, We’ll also visit the Basilica of St.Claire After Lunch continue to Florence Best know for it leather goods,the best in the world Leather (BB,D) Free time in the afternoon Dinner/ Overnight
Day 9 - March 31, 2018 (Sat) Florence to Rome
2 hrs walking tours of Florence,before we continue to Rome We will have a guided walking tour of this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist, Continue to Rome. Upon our arrival in Rome, Guided tours of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel .See the Largest church in Roman Catholicism ,St Peter Basilica,see the Crypt of St Pope John Paul (BB,D) Transfer to the Hotel /overnight
Day 10 April 1, 2018 (Sun ) Rome
EASTER SUNDAY MASS, VATICAN SQUARE FOLLOWED BY PAPAL BLESSING Visit the Major Basilicas like St Mary Major,St. John Lateran, the Holy Stairs, St. Paul Outside the Wall, St. Peter’s in Chain, Santa Croce of Jerusalem, afternoon see Imperial Rome, and short visit to the Trevi Fountain on the way to the hotel (BB,D) Dinner in the hotel
Day 11 April 2, 2018 (Mon) Rome Free time in Rome ( BB,D)
Day 12 April 3, 2018 (Mon) Rome – USA
Transfer to the airport for our flight back to USA, End of our memorable Pilgrimage
Dateline USa
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A
Lavarro to rally Jersey City Fil-Am voters at pulongbayan Urges community to ‘Get out the vote’
HEALTHY HABIT. Students from Pinyahan Elementary School in Quezon City wash their hands to mark handwashing day. The event had for its theme “Our Hands, Our Future.’ ManilaTimes.net photo by Mike De Juan
Stockton’s Filipino community center vandalized... PAGE A1 t Rather than going straight into rehearsal, Batugo allowed his students to reflect and document the event on social media. Batugo himself did a live video showing the damage to those on his social media networks. Stockton’s Mayor Michael Tubbs picked up on the social media outcries and called the incident “unacceptable” in a tweet. He then called the city’s police chief out to the scene. As of Wednesday, police have classified the incident as an act of vandalism and not a hate crime. According to Dillon Delvo, executive director and co-founder of the Little Manila Foundation, no other businesses on the street were vandalized. Words like “brainwashed” and “bigot”, along with seemingly misspelled words like “whittie” and “prop”, were marked on one of the center’s front windows. The vandal, who a witness described as possibly homeless, also ripped down donated banners portraying historic Filipino American stories. The door’s decals that once read “Little Manila Center” also had letters taken off. “Things like this make me so mad. Destroyed our donated pictures and messed up our windows, and called us “bigots” this is a hate crime,” read a tweet by Twitter user @celiiry. Delvo told the Asian Journal that a recent quote for the damage was $1,200 — more than they had originally thought. Donations are being accepted on the foundation’s website. Fil-Am History Month context The incident came as the center was busy preparing for activities and projects for Fil-Am History Month, an annual celebration of Fil-Ams’ history and experiences in the U.S. observed every October. One of the center’s projects is a series of short documentaries commemorating first-generation manongs (older male relatives) who passed away at the Daguhoy Lodge in Stockton. The project looks to tap into the manongs’ experiences at the time, through what was left behind in their trunks. “As we celebrate FilipinoAmerican History Month this October, we know that discrimination against Filipino Americans is nothing new,” reads the statement on the incident. For much of the 1920s to 1930s, Filipinos in the United
Pres. Donald Trump
States were accused of taking jobs, being criminals, and fraternizing with white women, thus being subject to many mob attacks and raids. The areas of Watsonville, California — just two hours away from Stockton, for example — became a hotspot of friction where mobs ultimately led to the death of a Filipino worker named Fermin Tobera. In response to the anti-Filipino aggressions happening throughout the West Coast, Philippine officials organized a “national day of humiliation” in Manila — thousands were said to have gathered in the capital’s Luneta Park to commemorate Tobera. On September 28, 2011, the state of California officially apologized to Filipino Americans through an Assembly resolution (ACR-74) authored by Assemblyman Luis A. Alejo. “Filipino Americans have a long and documented history of suffering discrimination, prejudice, and animosity in the State of California,” read one line of the resolution. “Filipino Americans endured past transgressions and wrongs committed against them through the implementation of state policies and the passage of certain laws,” read another. The city of Stockton itself, once had the largest population of Filipinos outside of the Philippines between the 1920s to 1960s, according to the Little Manila Center. Main Street, on which the center is located, was once the city’s dividing line for people of color in the 1930s. Filipinos were consequently not allowed to go north of the street, and signs saying “Positively no Filipinos allowed” were openly displayed, according to the center. The weekend just before the incident, students took photos with a replicated sign at a community event in remembrance of the street’s history. The sign now hangs over the center’s ripped banners for the same reason. “Yeah, this is a real tragedy, but we need to see how we can turn this tragedy into a prospect,” said Delvo who chooses to use the incident as a learning tool, and hopes that those who see it learn a bit about the early experience of Filipino Americans in California. “We’re just adding to this history of what was happening in the past — we can’t just wash it off,” he added. And it’s not just the histories and aggressions against Filipino Americans Delvo wants to shed
White House photo
Trump to hold meeting...
PAGE A1 t meeting between our two leaders,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said in a statement released September 30. Trump will also attend the 40th anniversary of U.S.-ASEAN relations during the U.S.-ASEAN Summit on November 13. The U.S. president will also travel to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and Hawaii. “The president’s travel will underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” the White
House said in a statement. Trump’s will first visit Hawaii to receive a briefing from the U.S. Pacific Command and visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. On November 5, he will begin his visit to Asia with Japan and participate in bilateral meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Trump will also hold bilateral meetings with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang. He will participate in the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Danang, Vietnam. (Patricia Lourdes Viray/Philstar.com)
light on. “Ripping down some signs is kind of like we got the lesser evil side,” he said referring to the overall racial climate that has been affecting other ethnic groups. “If anything, this incident serves as a reminder for all Filipinos and all Asian Americans that we should be in solidarity with the op-
JERSEY CITY, NJ – Looking to energize Filipino voters in Jersey City, Council President Rolando Lavarro will hold a “Pulongbayan”, campaign rally to get out the vote for the November 7th general elections. The free event will be held on Tuesday, October 24, 6:30 p.m., at Golden Door Charter School, located on 3044 John F. Kennedy Boulevard. Lavarro, ballot position 1B, is running for re-election for Council At-Large. The gathering will provide community members an opportunity to learn more about the entire Team Fulop 2017 slate, what’s at stake in the November 2017 elections particularly in Jersey City, and what the community can do to inform and encourage others to vote. “Elections require active participation now more than ever,” said Lavarro. “With anti-immigrant sentiment spreading across the country, there are those who seek to limit our ability to vote and have a voice, particularly in minority communities. We need pressed,” said Delvo. “We are not excluded from that.” As for the young students who first discovered the damage, they are not letting it get in the way of their Fil-Am History Month performances. “The show must go on,” said Batugo who encouraged his students to channel their positive energy into their art. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)
to be visible and vocal more than ever, and we can do that by voting and actively engaging others to vote.” Lavarro touts a broad range of achievements in his four-year tenure as Council At-Large, including: pushing to increase number of police and diversifying police rank, with JCPD now at 950 officers and considered the most diverse police force in the nation; fighting to ensure that Jersey City workers earn a better living with dignity by passing legislation such as living wage and earned sick days; advocating for affordable housing and sensible development, supporting projects like expansion of NJCU along West Side Avenue; conserving/creating green and recreation spaces for families, which resulted in new park – Berry Lane – to be created; worked with administration to provide young people with opportunities, through summer internship and work programs. “Invite your family and friends
to listen, ask questions, be informed,” urged Lavarro. “It has taken a lot of hard work, in working with the Fulop administration, to achieve the progress that we now see in Jersey City. We want people to know how they can be involved in keeping Jersey City moving forward.” Lavarro has also launched his website -- lavarroforjerseycity.com -- where people can sign up to volunteer, join his mailing list, donate, and get information about his campaign. Volunteers can stop by his campaign on office on 518 West Side Avenue, from Monday to Friday at 5:30pm-8pm, and Saturday 10am-1pm. Team Fulop 2017 comprises of Mayor Steven Fulop (1A); For Council At-Large- Rolando R. Lavarro (1B), Joyce Watterman (2B), Daniel Rivera (3B); Ward A - Denise Ridley (7C); Ward B - Mira Prinz-Arey (3C); Ward C - John Hannusak (3C); Ward D Moriah “Mo” Kinburg (5C); Ward F - Jermaine Robinson (5C). n
PH nabs top 3 spots... PAGE A1 t Princesa Subterranean River. This is one of seven natural wonders of the world where you can marvel at rock formations to add to your usual beach activities. The results are part of the publication’s Readers Choice
Awards which involve around 300,000 participants. Despite other popular destinations like Sardinia, Italy, Mallorca, Spain, and Bali, Indonesia, it seems like vacationers can’t get enough of the Philippines. n
A october 20-26, 2017 • NeW YorK AND NeW JerSeY ASIAN JoUrNAL
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A
Pres. Duterte declares liberation of Marawi by Dana
SioSon AJPress
May 23 prompted Duterte to impose martial law and suspend the privilege of writ of habeas corPHILIPPINE President Rodripus in the entire Mindanao later go Duterte announced on Tueson the same day. The extended day, October 17, the liberation of martial law is set to expire by the Marawi City from terrorists. end of the year. “Ladies and gentlemen, I hereSince the fighting broke out by declare Marawi City liberated five months ago, the government from the terrorist influence that has lost 162 soldiers and at least marks the beginning of rehabili47 civilians. 824 terrorists were tation,” said Duterte in a speech also killed. during his visit to the city. According to Armed Forces of The president made the prothe Philippines (AFP) Chief Gennouncement a day after the top eral Eduardo Año, there are still leaders of Islamic State (IS)-inaround 30 terrorists resisting the spired terrorist groups behind government forces in the area the war in Marawi City were but most are expected to surrenkilled in a military assault. der soon, following the death of In a press briefing on Monday, their leaders. October 16, Defense Secretary “They are stragglers. They Delfin Lorenzana confirmed the don’t have leaders anymore, deaths of Abu Sayyaf leader Isthey’re on their own,” Año said. nilon Hapilon and Maute group The military chief likewise releader Omar Maute. marked that the day of the deaths SENATE PROBE ON HAZING DEATH CONTINUES. Senator Panfilo Lacson (3rd from right), chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order “We were supposed to go to of Hapilon and Maute “marks the and Dangerous Drugs, along with (from right to left) Senators Grace Poe, Juan Miguel Zubiri, and Sherwin Gatchalian, listens to a Marawi today with the president triumph of good over evil.” presentation made during the Senate inquiry Wednesday, October 18, on the death of University of Santo Tomas law student Horacio but we were advised by ground In a statement, Malacanang Castillo III. Castillo died last September 17, 2017 from injuries allegedly sustained during a hazing rite by members of the Aegis Juris commanders not to go because hailed the government troops fraternity. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo they will conduct the assault this for the death of the two terrorist morning,” Lorenzana told reportleaders, describing it as a “clear ers. victory against terrorism.” “So they were able to do it “Bravo Zulu to the AFP (Armed this morning. They were able to Forces of the Philippines). We get Isnilon Hapilon and Omar look forward to raising Marawi Maute. They were both killed. In from the ashes of conflict and fact, their faces are now splashed building in a new era where helps the President first, anypeople from the farthest reaches way, she will have her time. She of this Republic can share in the will have her time after this),” boon of progress,” Presidential Dela Rosa said during a forum Communications Secretary Maron World Pandesal Day. tin Andanar said. “Kung gusto niyang mag“This clear victory against terpresidente, subukan natin siya. rorism proves the Duterte adBasta patapusin muna ‘yung buministration’s resoluteness in deong administration ni presidenlivering on its promise of peace te (If she wants to be president, and prosperity to the people of we can try. But she has to let the Mindanao,” he added. Duterte administration finish its In a separate statement, job),” he added. Presidential Spokesperson ErAllies and supporters of nesto Abella reiterated the govDuterte previously hit Robredo ernment’s vow to rehabilitate for criticizing some of the adminMarawi City once the fighting istration’s policies, including the was over. Inquirer.net photos anti-illegal drugs campaign that “Once the fighting stops and Police Chief Ronald Dela Rosa and Vice Pres. Leni Robredo resulted to thousands of alleged the clearing operations end, we ber 16, Philippine National Po- summary killings. by Dana SioSon will put our efforts and enerAt one point, Robredo hit the lice (PNP) Chief Director GenAJPress gies on the challenging task of A government soldier passes by a house previously occupied by Islamic State (IS) followers rebuilding and rehabilitating eral Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa PNP for its so-called “palit-ulo” in Marawi, where entire structures (top photo) had been flattened in the war to stop IS from THE country’s top cop has said Robredo should set aside (exchange of head) scheme, Marawi,” Abella said. n setting up a province in the predominantly Muslim City. Inquirer.net photo by Jeoffrey Maitem no qualms with Philippine Vice her supposed presidential am- wherein she said “the wife, husPresident Ma. Leonora “Leni” bition for now and instead help band or relative in a so-called Robredo running as president in Duterte “accomplish his plans drug list will be taken if the perthe next national elections, but for the country.” son himself could not be found.” he has one request: she must let Dela Rosa refuted Robredo’s “Sana tulungan na lang niya PAGE A1 t Sickly seminarian cies for Cebu, Tan said two things President Rodrigo Duterte finish definition, clarifying that “exang presidente, anyway, she will But Vidal almost didn’t become stood out. closest confidants. his term first. change of head” refers to a have her time, she will have her “First, he called for a diocesan a priest. The 86-year-old cardinal died of In a forum on Monday, Octotime pagkatapos nito (I hope she u PAGE A7 In an earlier interview, Vidal septic shock, a condition when the synod in 1982 to create policies in the internet. They were also able to recover 17 hostages,” he added. According to Lorenzana, the military was able to get a testimony on the whereabouts of Hapilon and Maute from a female hostage who managed to escape from a building where terrorists were holed up. Maute was reportedly killed with a headshot by snipers. Hapilon, on the other hand, was hit in his chest. Their will still be subjected to DNA testing, as there will be monetary rewards for their capture or death, the Defense Secretary noted. Malacañang had offered a P5 million bounty for each of the Maute brothers, and P10 million for Hapilon. A separate $5 million bounty was also offered by the United States for the Abu Sayyaf leader, who was also the supposed anointed head of IS in Southeast Asia Lorenza said the government may announce the termination of hostilities in Marawi within this week. “And after that, we’ll find out, we’ll assess the entire Mindanao if there is a but the need to recommend to the president the lifting of martial law,” he added. The attack in Marawi City on
PNP chief tells Robredo to set aside presidential ambition, help Duterte first
Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal...
blood pressure drops to a dangerously low level after a severe blood infection, said Msgr. Joseph Tan, the spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Cebu. “It is with great sadness that I announce the death of Cardinal Vidal,” Tan said in telephone interview. “He has returned to the Father’s home at 7:28 a.m. today.” “I ask the people to pray for his eternal repose,” he added. “For four days, he was in stable condition. But as it is, his heart may have given up due to his age.” Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma and Auxiliary Bishop Dennis Villarojo, who served as Vidal’s private secretary for many years, were with Vidal when the cardinal breathed his last. Vidal, who served as archbishop of Cebu for 29 years, from 1982 to 2011, lies in state at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral from Wednesday afternoon. His remains will be transferred to the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Pedro Calungsod at the Archbishop’s Residence compound over the weekend. Tan said the funeral date has not been set, but Vidal’s body may be buried at the cathedral mausoleum where his predecessors had also been laid to rest. Vidal, whose health declined since 2014 due to pneumonia, was rushed to the hospital Wednesday last week after having difficulty in breathing. He was in a semi-comatose state and underwent dialysis after his kidneys weakened. But around 6 a.m. on Wednesday, his blood pressure severely dropped due to blood infection. Physicians tried to revive Vidal for about an hour but failed. Brother thanks Cebuanos Aside from Palma and Villarojo, also present at the hospital were his 84-year-old brother Juanito and former private secretaries – Msgr. Achilles Dakay, Fr. Agustin Ancajas, Fr. Mhar Vincent Balili and Fr. Joseph de Aquino. Juanito flew in to Cebu from Manila last week after learning that Vidal was confined at the hospital. But he was not able to talk to his brother who was already unconscious. While they understood that Vidal would eventually die, Juanito said it was still painful to lose a loved one. Vidal is the fifth of six children while Juanito is the youngest. Juanito thanked the Cebuanos for taking good care of Vidal. Peacemaker Tan said Vidal would always be remembered as champion of peace who made himself available to others. Among Vidal’s biggest lega-
to transform the diocese,” he said. “And second, the Cardinal Vidal gave us the legacy of San Pedro Calungsod, and he started the legacy of Archbishop Teofilo Camomot.” For over two decades, Vidal worked for the canonization of Calungsod, a Visayan martyr, who eventually became one of the saints of the Catholic Church in 2012. The cardinal also started the process for the beatification of the late Cebuano bishop, Teofilo Camomot, who was known for his extreme generosity and holiness. De Aquino, the last private secretary of Vidal, said the cardinal was a true example of service and peace. Key figure in Edsa revolution A year after he was named cardinal by then Pope John Paul II, who’s now a saint, Vidal was elected president of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) from 1986 to 1987. He and the CBCP condemned the results of the February 1986 snap elections and called the people for a “non-violent struggle for justice” against the abuses of then President Ferdinand Marcos. A CBCP report stated that Vidal led the rest of the Philippine bishops and made a joint declaration against the government and result of the snap election. Although he was instrumental in toppling down the regime of Marcos, Vidal flew to Hawaii to give the former president the Sacrament of Extreme Unction, a sacrament given to seriously ill person. In 1989, then President Corazon Aquino requested Vidal to convince Gen. Jose Comendador, then the Air Force chief who was sympathetic to the rebel forces fighting her government, to peacefully surrender. Vidal repeatedly appealed to Comendador, who eventually gave up. Vidal’s intervention averted what could have been a bloody coup. In 2001, Vidal also played a silent role in the EDSA 2 revolution. While another uprising was done by the people, the cardinal privately advised then President Joseph Estrada to step down from office. Estrada heeded the advice of his spiritual adviser. On Dec. 7, 2010 the Senate recognized Vidal’s services and leadership through a resolution that read: “It is resolved by the Senate, to honor Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Archbishop of Cebu, for his service to the people of Cebu, providing spiritual leadership and inspiration, helping the community avert or survive several crises and conflicts, often acting as a peacekeeper and giving the voice of moderation amid clashing views and interests in local and national issues.”
was very sickly when he was a seminarian in Mogpog, a third class municipality in Marinduque. He was eventually sent home and was on the verge of not getting ordained as priest because he was sickly. His prayers were answered: His health improved. Vidal was eventually ordained a priest on March 17, 1956 by the Bishop Alfredo Maria Aranda Obviar, who died on Oct. 1, 1978, and is now a candidate for sainthood. Vidal was then assigned as assistant priest of a parish in his hometown in Mogpog and was a professor of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Seminary in Sariaya, Quezon. He was later named a bishop and appointed as coadjutor bishop of Malolos in 1971. Less than two years later, Vidal was appointed Archbishop of Lipa by Pope Paul VI. Reluctant to go to Cebu In 1981, Vidal was sent to Cebu by then Pope John Paul II and was named a coadjutor archbishop with the right to succeed then Cebu Archbishop Julio Cardinal Rosales. When Rosales died in 1983, Vidal took over the Archdiocese of Cebu, the largest in the country with 400 diocesan priests, 200 others from various religious congregations, and about four million Catholics. Although 75 was supposed to be the mandatory retirement age, Vidal waited for more than four years for the Vatican to approve his request to retire. In October 2010, Pope Benedict XVI accepted Vidal’s resignation. Vidal was replaced by Archbishop Jose Palma on Jan. 13, 2011. Instead of going back to Marinduque, Vidal chose to spend his retirement in Cebu. He stayed at a retirement house at the Sto. Niño Village in Banilad, Cebu City. Although he had already retired, Vidal’s advice was still sought after by Church and political leaders in the country. In July 2016, Vidal went to Malacañang and met with President Rodrigo Duterte, hoping to bridge the gap between Catholic Church bishops and the new administration. Duterte earlier criticized the Catholic Church for alleged sins committed by the clergy describing the Church, at one point, as the “most hypocritical institution.” When he arrived at the Music Room of Malacañang, Duterte bowed his head and kissed the prelate’s hand, and even cracked jokes with Vidal. During their conversation, Vidal said he promised to pray for the president.
A6 OCTOBER 20-26, 2017 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL
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FEATURES
OPINION
Neutralized
THE photographs are grisly. But just to leave no doubt that this time, reports of the deaths were not exaggerated, graphic photos were released showing Abu Sayyaf commander Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute bloodied and dead. Hapilon, said to be the Southeast Asian leader of the terrorist Islamic State, had a $5-million prize on his head plus another P10-million bounty from the Philippine government. The military was preparing to capture Hapilon when he launched the attack on Marawi back in May together with the brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute. Much of the once bustling city is now in ruins in the wake of the most serious attempt yet to set up an Islamic extremist base in Mindanao. The siege has had a grievous toll. As of Monday, Oct. 16 over 800 Maute terrorists had been killed in the fighting. So far, the military has lost 162 soldiers, with over 1,700 others wounded, while 47 civilians have died. Although remnants of the Mautes still have about 20 civilian hostages, the neutralization of Hapilon and Omar Maute raises hopes that the fighting will soon be over. The military counts fewer than 30 Maute members still in Marawi together with a handful of foreign fighters mostly from Indonesia and Malaysia. Now the challenge is to ensure that the Mautes will
not regroup and launch a similar attack. The group clearly took the government by surprise, depleting the resources of the Armed Forces and keeping the fighting alive for nearly five months now. Armed Forces officials said that with the deaths, “the terrorists will crumble.” But the whereabouts of Abdullah Maute are unknown, and the group can prove to be like the Abu Sayyaf, which has been decapitated several times but keeps sprouting new heads like a Hydra monster. For several decades now, the military has pursued a counterterrorism and counterinsurgency strategy that has been summarized as “clear, hold, consolidate and develop.” The clearing of the threat is almost over in Marawi, and the military is holding on to abandoned battlegrounds. The government must now step in to consolidate victories in the fighting and pour resources into rehabilitation and development of the battered city. If properly implemented at each step, it is a sound strategy that can prevent a repeat of the Marawi siege. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
SWS vs Pulse Asia: Satisfaction rating or job approval rating?
Opinion
YEN MAKABENTA THIS is the fourth time that I am writing about public opinion polling, so I do not enter the subject cold. I have an idea why the SWS and Pulse Asia surveys differ so much from each other and why they reached contrasting conclusions about the public’s perception of the Duterte presidency. In a column published last July (“SWS looks for satisfaction; the world asks about approval”, Manila Times. July 13), I commented that SWS in the Philippines looks for public satisfaction in its opinion research; while in contrast, pollsters in practically all other countries (the US and Europe included) ask about approval of the job performance of their presidents and prime ministers. Satisfaction not the same as approval I wrote at the time: “Satisfaction is not the same as approval. ‘Satisfaction’ means the fulfillment of a desire. Or reparation for a wrong done. ‘Approval’ means agreement, sanction, favorable opinion, or commendation.
Why does SWS in its surveys ask about satisfaction, instead of approval of job performance, or support for presidential policies? Why does this Filipino opinion researcher persist in using its satisfaction angle in measuring public opinion on presidential performance, instead of the near universal approval/disapproval method of inquiry which is used by almost all pollsters in advanced countries. The Philippines is the only country, and Filipinos are the only people in the world who are asked whether they are satisfied or dissatisfied with their president. With this survey angle, the president or any public official is treated like a meal, a dish or a fruit which we consume, or perhaps a person who is in our employ or an object of affection. I have long wondered why against standard research practice, SWS insists on its idiosyncratic terminology and method.” Contrasting survey reports My interest at the time was not misplaced, because this week, SWS and its survey landed in the middle of a national controversy. In survey research conducted in the same month (September)
and reports released within weeks of each other, SWS and Pulse Asia presented the nation a contrasting picture of how the Filipino public views the job performance of President Duterte. SWS reported that DU30 had suffered a precipitous decline in his satisfaction rating. For good measure, it also found a decline in DU30’s trust rating. Pulse Asia, in sharp contrast, reported that in its survey, DU30 got an 80 percent approval rating, as 8 out of 10 Filipinos fully approved of what the president was doing in office. Why did the two surveys differ so sharply? Were they taken from different samples of Filipinos? SWS survey: the magic of net satisfaction In its survey report released on October 8,SWS reported that “President Rodrigo Duterte’s satisfaction and trust ratings dropped in September.” The President’s satisfaction rating dropped to 48 percent, 18 points down from his 66 percent rating last June while his trust rating declined to 61 percent from 75 percent in June. The SWS non-commissioned survey from September 23-27 used face-to-face interviews of 1,500 adults aged 18 years old
and above nationwide. Of those surveyed, 600 were from Balance Luzon, while 300 each were from Metro Manila, the Visayas and Mindanao. In fact, SWS in its report skirted the verdict of its own research. The poll reported that Duterte got 67 percent satisfied in the satisfaction survey, and “73 percent” in the trust poll. SWS diverted attention from these towards its so-called “net satisfaction rating,” which represents the difference between the number of those satisfied and those dissatisfied. Through this keyhole, SWS found a way to pronounce a decline in Duterte’s rating by contrasting the new poll with the numbers in past surveys. By legerdemain, in short, SWS was able to present a decline in Duterte’s popularity. What credence should we give this kind of opinion research which runs away from its own findings? Who commissioned this survey of Duterte’s decline? Pulse Asia survey: Switch to job approval In contrast, Pulse Asia’s report on its survey was straightforward. The pollster ran a survey on the public’s approval of Duterte’s job performance. The survey result was as fol-
lows: “President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval rating is down two percentage points in September from that of June 2017, but 80 percent of Filipinos still approve of his work and trust him,” according to the Pulse Asia survey released Friday, October 13. According to Pulse Asia, Duterte enjoys an 80 percent approval rating, slightly lower than June’s 82 percent. Eighty percent of Filipinos have “big trust” in him, too, according to the survey. Duterte’s approval rating was highest among the poorest Filipinos, with Class E rating at 86 percent, Class D at 79 percent, and Class ABC at 75 percent. Although 80 percent of those surveyed trust Duterte, 14 percent are undecided. Six percent, meanwhile, said they distrust him. Duterte got 85 percent trust rating among Class E; 80 percent among Class D; and 74 percent among Class ABC. Approval ratings of top national officials have all dropped, albeit by varying degrees, according to the survey, which was conducted from September 2430, 2017 through face-to-face interviews with 1,200 adults. End of an era
Reaction to the surveys was predictable. The opposition, especially the Liberal Party and the yellow media, lapped up the tale of Duterte’s decline. Rappler. the yellow website, had a field day analyzing the SWS report. It majestically opined: “Cracks are beginning to show in President Duterte’s image as a ‘populist’ strongman. “The latest SWS survey seems to signal the end of that era.” The reply, after Pulse Asia released its survey, was not only ecstatic for the government; it was devastating for SWS and the yellow crowd. The Daily Tribune in an editorial blasted SWS as having become part of the yellow campaign against President Duterte. It said: “The campaign will go full throttle using the recent results of survey ratings showing a substantial drop in the ‘net’ ratings of Rody despite showing a clear majority of 73 percent with much trust and 67 percent being satisfied with his performance. “It seems that pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS) is part of the yellow offensive too as prior to the release of the survey show-
u PAGE A7
To beat terrorism and crime, we must all fight
Opinion
RICARDO SALUDO IT could have been worse, far worse. The Marawi siege killed more than a thousand people, destroyed Muslim Mindanao’s cultural capital, and bloodied the Armed Forces of the Philippines for nearly five months. But thankfully there were no bombings, shootings, and hostage-taking in major cities. Pundits now warn of such attacks, and in his Tuesday briefing, AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla urged continued vigilance. Still, one hopes that if Islamic State-driven extremists could not mount deadly mayhem while government forces were tied up in Marawi, the IS cabal are less likely to do so with the military redeploying elsewhere. Plus: The Philippine National Police, recently relieved of antinarcotics operations, is turning PNP personnel and resources toward fighting lawlessness, including terrorism. That’s the hope, at least. But in reality, and considering the fearsome violence perpetrated in Paris, London, Manchester,
Istanbul, Cairo, and, most recently, Las Vegas, despite far more capable security forces there, the threat of massive carnage will not go away, however many Hapilons and Mautes are neutralized. And now, with IS and other terrorist groups seeing huge recruitment and propaganda potential in the Philippines after Marawi, plus the kith, kin, and communities of more than 800 slain terrorists possibly seeking vengeance, we must redouble counter-terrorist vigilance and measures. The need for ‘shared responsibility’ Which brings us to the “shared responsibility” urged by General Padilla in the Mindanao Hour briefing to Palace media on Tuesday. The AFP spokesman said: “Shared responsibility in security … is the participation of every citizen to always be on the alert; to always be vigilant; to always be on guard for any kind of threat that may be around their places of abode or their places of work, or during their transition from anywhere during travel. If you see any suspicious-looking persons … report this to the authorities as soon as possible, so that we can guarantee the safety
of these areas.” In short, the AFP seeks the help of the people it protects. The reason is simple: our forces can do a far better job of fighting lawless elements and securing the nation if the people actively help them. Take the killing of Hapilon and Maute. Reportedly, an escaped hostage pointed where the two terrorist leaders hid. So, troops, snipers, and a heavily armed armored vehicle took positions within striking distance, and mowed down the pair and their companions when they stepped out in the open. Intelligence from barangay residents also helped the AFP wipe out some 60 Abu Sayyaf guerrillas who tried to infiltrate Bohol in April, perhaps targeting ministerial meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. On the other hand, President Rodrigo Duterte fumed over the lack of warnings from Marawi officials about terrorist hideouts, including bomb-proof tunnels. Local officials disputed the criticism, but surely indisputable is the failure to alert authorities to the stockpiling of Maute arms, ammo and explosives enough for months of fighting. Besides intelligence, crucial
security measures for citizens include: safeguarding and counseling family and friends against extremism, including online activity; reporting entities doing IS recruitment, funding, and propaganda, even those in charity work; and undertaking basic household, neighborhood or establishment security, like ensuring everyone there knows what suspicious events to watch for, and how to report them. Those in charge of banks, corporations, office buildings, malls, and other large establishments have immense responsibility to secure their premises and all the people working and transacting business there. That means not only deploying security personnel and systems, but also monitoring staff for possible extremist affiliations, which could lead them to compromise physical and cyber security, facilitate money transfers and other illicit transactions, and even commit terrorist acts like sabotage, hostage-taking, and mass murder. Most important, there is need to maintain a perspective hostile to terrorism, which can exploit legitimate grievances as well as loyalties to faith, nation, race, community and family for violent ends.
That hostility to political violence must encompass not just the pseudo-religious extremism of Islamic State, but also the violent ideologies of the communist insurgency, which has shown itself utterly insincere in peace efforts and unprincipled in its attacks, even during the Marawi war. In sum, every peace-loving, law-abiding Filipino must not yield an inch to violent groups of whatever political persuasion, in our places of domicile, work and leisure, in our families and communities, and in our minds and hearts. Terrorist violence for whatever cause is evil; we must fight it every time, everywhere, and in every way. Crime and drugs too The same national solidarity and resolve to resist terrorist groups must be applied to criminal syndicates, which seek to enslave and exploit swathes of society with narcotics, extortion, jueteng, and violence, and control government officials and entities with bribes and threats. Like Islamic State, the largest of these lawless cabals can harness massive funds from abroad, plus underworld networks spanning continents and oceans. Even local gangs, like the Kuratong
Baleleng linked to Ozamiz City’s Parojinog clan, wield formidable armed might and political clout. Like the military battling terrorism and insurgency, the police, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Justice, and other law enforcement agencies would be far more effective in fighting crime and drugs if the citizenry do their part in preventing and fighting lawlessness. The same imperatives of securing the people around us, the places we frequent or manage, and our minds and hearts from terrorist intrusion and influence, must be applied to criminal organizations and gangs. In addition, individual families, communities and the whole society must rigorously combat gambling, addiction, prostitution, and other vices, which the lawless exploit for profit and power. In this campaign, family and religious morals remain the first line of defense, which parents must uphold. Otherwise, vice triumphs, and so does crime. Bottom line: President Duterte is waging war on crime, drugs, terrorism, insurgency, and corruption. He can only win if Filipinos fight at his side. (ManilaTimes.net)
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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Dateline PhiliPPines
NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OctObER 20-26, 2017
NAIA no longer on list of ‘worst airports’, other PH airports named among Asia’s best by Dana
SioSon
FOR BETTER SERVICE. Th e Qu ezon City Police District (QCPD) received 150 brand new motorcycles and 485 bullet proof vests from the city government on Wednesday, Oct.18 at Camp Karingal. The donation is part of the several tranches of logistical equipment included in the 2017 procurement program from the Quezon City government, Mayor Herbert Bautista said.
DOTr vows more improvements
AJPress
AFTER consecutive years of being named as among the worst airports around the globe and in Asia, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is finally out of the list this 2017. A recent survey released by “The Guide To Sleeping In Airports” on Sunday, October 15 showed that the Philippines’ premier gateway is no longer included in the world’s top 20 worst airports. From 2011 to 2013, NAIA ranked first place on the globe’s worst airports list. It landed in 4th place in 2014. The following year, it was no longer included in The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 Inquirer.net photo the world’s top ten worst airports but was rated 8th worst airport services. to prioritize commercial flights; in Asia. “Work, work, work lang. While reducing flight delays; and conIn 2016, NAIA landed in the it is good that we are not listed struction of Rapid Exit Taxiways fifth spot on Asia’s worst airports, among the worst, let us work even to allow an aircraft to leave the which the government attrib- harder to be included amongst runway at higher speed and inuted to the issue of “laglag-bala” the best,” Tugade said, remind- crease flight movements. or “bullet-planting” scheme, ing that there are several things It likewise include provision wherein personnel allegedly yet to be improved at NAIA. of cleaner toilets additional planted bullets in luggage to ex“We should be careful that seats, free Wi-Fi, and Well-Wishtort money from travellers. we do not backslide. The show ers’ Area. But this year, NAIA is also must go on — and better!” he Echoing the transport chief’s no longer among Asia’s top five added. remarks, Manila International worst airports list. The DOTr also noted that since Airport Authority (MIAA) GenerFour Philippine regional air- the new administration of Presi- al Manager Ed Monreal said the ports likewise maintained its dent Rodrigo Duterte took over latest result “is only as good as spot on the top 25 best airports in June last year, there has been the last race.” in Asia. These include the Iloilo “no single incidence of a passen“We are happy to hear the International Airport, Mactan- ger missing a flight for possess- recent development [delisting Cebu International Airport, Clark ing a bullet.” of NAIA]. However, the bigger International Airport, and Davao “Passengers no longer feel the challenge now is on how we can International Airport. need to wrap bags and luggages maintain or even surpass this In a statement, Philippine De- in plastic or masking tapes,” the achievement. We are only good partment of Transport (DOTr) department said. as the last race,” Monreal said. Chief Arthur Tugade welcomed “The task ahead is enormous, According to the DOTr, among the travel website’s positive feed- the reforms implemented under we are wishing to be part of the back as he vowed to continuous the new administration were list of the best airports in the fudevelopment of the country’s restriction on general aviation ture,” he added. n
PNP chief tells Robredo to set aside... PAGE A5 t practice wherein arrested drug pushers can reveal their supplier or higher drug lords in exchange of being charged with a lighter offense. During this week’s forum, the top cop defended anew the drug war as he maintained that the police force values human life. “We wage the war on drugs because we value life; if we don’t value life and we value money, we will just receive (bribe) money from the drug lords,” Dela Rosa said.
The PNP has been the center of the controversial drug war, particularly its heavily-criticized “Oplan Tokhang.” “What’s the essence of Tokhang? Knock and plead, katukin ang bahay ng drug personality at pakiusapan na, ‘Please, huminto ka na. Mag bagong buhay ka.’ Hindi namin binabaril agad ang mga drug personalities (Knock on their door and plead with the drug personality saying ‘Please stop with the drugs and change your life for the better.’ We don’t
shoot the drug personalities immediately),” Dela Rosa said. Just last week, Duterte named the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) as the “sole agency” in charge of the government’s war on drugs amid public outrage over alleged police abuses. Under the new order, the PNP’s task in the drug war was now limited to “maintaining police visibility.” Dela Rosa, however, insisted that this does not mean that “PDEA values life more than the PNP does.” n
A
Inquirer.net photo
CHR ‘hopeful’ PDEA will follow rule of law in drug war operations by AJPress MANILA - The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expressed hope that the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) will adhere to the rule of law in carrying out the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. In a statement issued Tuesday, October 17, CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann De Guia said the commission is “hopeful that professionalism will govern the PDEA in implementing the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.” The CHR likewise expressed optimism that the campaign against illegal drugs will be carried out with “strict adherence to the rule of law.” In a memorandum dated Tuesday, October 10, President Rodrigo Duterte designated the PDEA
as the “sole agency” to conduct all campaigns and operations against illegal drugs. Under the new order, Duterte removed anew the Philippine National Police (PNP) from the forefront of the so-called drug war amid public outrage over alleged police abuses and deaths of thousands of suspects. “The PNP shall, at all times, maintain police visibility, as a deterrent to illegal drug activities leaving to the PDEA, however, the conduct of anti-illegal drug operations as aforestated,” the memorandum read. The CHR, which has repeatedly criticized the drug war over its alleged human rights violations, expressed approval over the new directive designating PDEA as the campaign’s sole lead agency. De Guia described the president’s order as an “indication
that the administration is willing to listen to public clamor for the observance of due process in its campaign against illegal drugs.” She noted that assigning the lead role to PDEA “will allow the PNP to devote more effort to solving and preventing ordinary crimes, including vigilante killings and possible EJKs (Extrajudicial Killings) resulting from police operations.” The country’s national human rights institution likewise said it expects other law enforcement agencies, such as the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), “to recognize the lead role of and coordinate” with PDEA in the campaign. “We also look forward to a more collaborative relationship with PDEA towards shaping a strategy that is more respectful of life and human dignity,” De Guia added.
SWS vs Pulse Asia: Satisfaction rating...
PAGE A6 t
ing a drop in Rody’s net rating it released a series of June reports showing results from a poll on the conduct of Rody’s war on drugs. “Released on different days in the run-up to the satisfaction and performance poll on Rody were the reports on ‘3 of 5 Filipinos agree that only poor drug pushers are killed’; ‘nearly half of Filipinos mistakenly believe drug use is punishable by death’; and ‘90 percent say it is important that drug suspects be captured alive.’ “The reports were quoting from just one survey which was done June 23 to 26. Just two days
for a nationwide face to face interviews with respondents survey and with leading questions to boot? “The Liberal Party of course is up to its task of keeping the domestic pressure on Rody through its attack dogs in the Senate led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th. “The yellow mob was merely waiting for just the SWS report, the manipulation obviously undertaken in how the report was packaged to highlight the negative despite the still high figures favoring Rody.” Goodbye to satisfaction Now that Pulse Asia has joined the rest of the world in conduct-
ing the straightforward and tested approval survey on job performance, it’s questionable whether SWS will still venture to conduct its satisfaction and net satisfaction surveys. It will be an even bigger mystery whether the public and the media will ever buy again numbers manufactured by SWS. Personally, I would like to see SWS conduct a survey in the aftermath of the deaths of Hapilon and Maute in Marawi, and the now certain end of the Marawi crisis. If SWS can produce a negative satisfaction rating for DU30, it will truly earn its commission. (ManilaTimes.net)
A october 20-26, 2017 • NeW YorK AND NeW JerSeY ASIAN JoUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
OCTOBER 20-26, 2017
people events arts culture entertainment
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Cover photos by Momar G. Visaya and Troi Santos, and courtesy of Marq Romero
An Asian Journal Magazine
2
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O c TO b E R 20, 20 1 7
Fil-Am Nerds Geek Out at New York Comic Con 2017 by MoMar
The streets of Manhattan get filled with geeks, nerds and cosplay fans in full costume for four days in October as they inch their way to the Jacob Javits Convention Center for the annual New York Comic Con. One of the self-described nerds, Fil-Am Marq Romero is a veteran in this field. In fact, he has been going to the New York Comic Con since 2007 when it was still in its infancy and was held in a small hotel in Times Square. And he doesn’t just attend the events or visit the booths, he makes it a point to dress up in character. Of the four-day geekfest, Marq says he usually puts on his costume on Saturday, considered as the busiest day of the convention and the day when most of the cosplayers come out to show off their costumes. he has donned various costumes through the years as he dresses up into whatever he happens to be into at the moment or whatever is popular. This year, he dressed up as Doctor Strange. Throwback: A Wedding Proposal Back in 2011, Marq decided to propose to his girlfriend Chriselle and thought of proposing to her at the comic con. It wasn’t quite a walk in the park. Marq says it took him more than three months to plan the details of said proposal. he worked with the comic con as a volunteer that year and that was his way in - he got permission from the organizers to hold a flash mob in front of the main theater. With a little help from friends and family, Marq pulled off what he calls as “the geekiest marriage proposal of the year” at New York Comic Con ‘11. “It took a lot of logistics and organization to pull it off, but with the help of friends and family, I was able to pull it off,” Marq recalls. he was walking on pins and needles as the day arrived. Thankfully, everything went in
G. Visaya/AJPress
Cover photos by Momar G. Visaya and Troi Santos, and courtesy of Marq Romero
order. “I was so nervous! After she said “yes,” I was in shock how many people we were surrounded by. It was surreal,” he adds. Just how did he pull it off? The proposal won the grand prize in the 2011 Brides Proposal Awards and the prize was honeymoon in Fiji. “I conducted a flash mob of costumed dancers to the song “Marry You” by Bruno Mars (the Glee version). We had Green Lantern, harley Quinn, Buzz Lightyear and even a breakdancing Boba Fett. Towards the end, a red carpet was rolled
out and all the dancers lined up as Chriselle walked down the aisle. She reached the end where four people were lined up. They separated, revealing me on one knee dressed as the main character, Ash from Pokémon. A girl dressed as Pikachu handed me a pokéball which I opened to reveal the engagement ring. After she said “yes” and the crowd cheered, both our families came out to surprise her. It took place at 2:22pm which symbolized our anniversary, 2/22.” Now, every year, the couple celebrates their anniversary at the comic con by taking a picture in the same spot where he proposed to her. Filipino Superhero Jeremiah Agojo is also a big comic con fan. he has been to four New York comic cons and lately, he started to get into smaller ones and so far, he has attended three of those. he says he tries to dress up every year, but sometimes he only gets to go for one or two days, and for him, it’s not worth making a costume. Of the four years he has been to NYCC, he dressed up in three. This year, he made a Captain
We spied a Filipina Princess Leia and a Captain Philippines, rocking the colors of the Philippine flag.
Marq Romero proposed to his girlfriend Chriselle at the New York Comic Con in 2011. They celebrate their anniversary by taking a photo at the same spot every year. Photos courtesy of Marq Romero
Philippines costume. “My inspiration behind my Captain Philippines was obviously Captain America. I love WWII movies as well as Captain America comics and films,” Jeremiah shares. Coming from a military family, he believes it is also his chance to say thank you to them and to everyone who has been in service of the country. “I also have my father, grandparents and great grandparents, all of whom are Veterans [and] I felt like this would be a nice tribute to their service, as well as a cool way to make a unique, but recognizable costume,” he adds. Going to the comic con every year has become a tradition for Jeremiah one that he looks forward to every year because he gets to meet comic artists and writers and fellow fans. The comic con has also
become a huge marketplace for any comic or even pop culturerelated merchandise. From dolls to comic books to shirts and keychains, from posters to original commissioned artworks to action figures and collectibles, the comic con is the place to be. “There’s no judgment for what you enjoy at comic con. everyone is a bit nerdy about something, and you can truly express yourself while you’re there. Whether you’re nerdy, artsy, geeky, or a mix of all three, you’re welcomed. That’s not something us nerds get in everyday society,” he explains. Playing Favorites We asked both self-described nerds about their favorites. “My favorite superhero is Spider-Man without a doubt,” Marq says and went on to explain his choice. “he is just more relatable as he deals with daily problems like us normal folk do. he’s also flawed like the rest of us, which is why I can’t really get into Superman who is just too perfect. Spider-Man was also the first Marvel comic I remember buying and I still have that comic. I just instantly fell in love with the way he was drawn in the most impossible poses.” Jeremiah on the other hand enumerated his list. “Some of my favorite media franchises are Marvel Comics, Walking Dead, Power Rangers, Batman, Fallout, Overwatch and almost anything released by BOOM! studios. This year I got to meet humberto Ramos, Marjorie Liu, Jason David Frank, David Yost, Sarag Pichelli, Scott Snyder, Stephen Byrne, and plenty others. It was an awesome experience meeting some awesome artists and writers and getting tips on the business from them,” he shares. having seen it evolved into what it has become now, Marq says it has become harder to navigate it now, specially with the size and amount of people that go every day. “We now live in a time where it’s more mainstream and “cool” to go to comic cons now. When I first went, you can just go to the venue the day of and buy a ticket. Now you have to be on the
website the second tickets go on sale and pray they don’t sell out. There weren’t a lot of females at comic con back in the day. Now there are so many females that attend NYCC so it’s good to see the culture spread out among ages and gender,” he says. It may take awhile before New York Comic Con gets on the same level as the San Diego Comic Con where fans from across the country attend. As a big comic con fan, Marq flew to San Diego in 2014 to attend the SDCC. If you think that four days at the Javits and multiple locations in the city is big, you might want to think again. “It’s so much bigger than New York. All the big movie studios have a large presence and hold the most exciting movie panels. What makes it so big is that the entire downtown of San Diego is transformed into comic con,” Marq recalls. “The whole downtown is in the spirit of comic con with restaurants employees wearing costumes and having superhero themed menus.” Marq couldn’t help but compare – the SDCC convention hall is bigger and that helps because “you’re not always getting hit by someone’s costume or sword trying to walk down the aisles on the show floor.” As a fan, he’s really not complaining. he is happy to just see “amazing hand-crafted costumes, buying new comic books and toys, meeting my favorite comic book artists and writers, and just geeking out with my wife and friends.” And as a last point, he hopes that organizers could find a bigger venue than the Javits Center although he is not sure there is one. “But they are doing renovations to expand the Javits Center so I am hopeful,” Marq says. “And not to stereotype the typical nerd (because I am one!), but there are a lot of people that don’t practice good hygiene at these conventions, and sometimes the smells can be pretty bad. I think deodorant companies like Axe and Old Spice are missing an excellent marketing opportunity here!”
Immigration Corner
The November 2017 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.
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 20, 20 1 7
The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: FAMILY CATEGORY:
Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
October 1, 2007
January 1, 2007
First Preference
Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)
Second Preference
(2A) Spouse and minor children (below November 1, 21 years old) of green 2016 card holder
November 15, 2015
(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder
September 1, 2007
January 1, 2007
Third Preference
Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.
June 15, 1995
March 1, 1995
Fourth Preference
Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.
March 1, 1995
June 8, 1994
LABOR CERTIFICATION: Second Preference
Application Filing Date Advanced Degree (Masters)
Current
Visa Issuance Date Current
Third Preference
Professional/ Skilled Workers
August 1, 2016 January 15, 2016
Other Workers
Non-Skilled Workers
August 1, 2016 January 15, 2016
an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee for over 35 years and is licensed, and or legal advice regarding the outcome
of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw 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 · PHILIP(Advertising Supplement) PINES
TWICE HE APPLIED FOR AN IMMIGRANT VISA. TWICE, HE WAS DENIED. FIND OUT THE FINAL SCORE THIS SUNDAY, ON “CITIZEN PINOY”! Joseph (center) was initially petitioned as a minor child of a green card holder, but his visa was refused at the interview because he admitted to drug use. When he aged out, his petition was reclassified to F-2B. At his second interview, he was denied for the same reason. His mother, Josie (right), and his sister, Evelyn (left), felt hopeless. They were running out of options, and were desperate. It felt like Nanay Josie’s promise of having the family reunited in America would just remain a dream. Mother and daughter consulted with leading U.S. attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel, after seeing a case similar to Joseph’s that was featured on Citizen Pinoy. Atty. Gurfinkel went to the U.S. Embassy in Manila and becomes a major contributor to a landmark decision and policy change that benefitted Joseph and many more. Watch a mother’s promise fulfilled on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC.
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAGlAyA
SOME stories are cautionary tales. If we approach our own lives with a smidgen of humility, stories do teach and show us the way. I have learned that without humility, one cannot be taught anything of real value. by Maridol ranoa-BisMark don’t look for love anymore,” she Without humility, one would Philstar.com enthused. have to experience life’s hard WHEN it rains, it pours. The Besides, Aiko figured she will lessons first hand. This is choosing saying is true for Aiko Melendez. have a hard time adjusting to a new to learn by paying the highest Two years after lying low man in her life, when she has gotten tuition when one can learn simply in showbiz, her career is on the used to looking after herself and by listening and pondering the upswing again. her family as the breadwinner at a wisdom of those who love you and She is the evil Emilia Ardiente young age. have your best interests at heart. in ABS-CBN’s primetime teleserye, Since she grew up providing for I am revisiting two stories “Wildflower.” She appeared in the the family, asking for financial help from 2010. These stories illustrate advocacy film “New Generation is alien to her. supremely bloated egos and an Heroes.” Recently, she again played “I have my pride,” Aiko overblown sense of personal as an overseas Filipino worker in BG explained. entitlement. Productions International’s dramatic So she does not mind providing The story of Amy Bishop, film “Balatkayo.” for her 19-year-old son Andrei, who the Alabama ex-professor, “I play a very loving mom who plans to shift to an aeronautical who murdered her academic wants the best for her son, but I engineering course. Aiko shared colleagues in cold blood during a have skeletons in my own closet,” Marthena’s school expenses are departmental meeting, ended with Aiko described her role. care of the girl’s dad, Martin Jickain, a life sentence. The pressure is on for her, not who is now happily married to Once-upon-a-time golf legend, just because she is more visible someone else. Tiger Woods, after 7 years have than ever. Some of her 11-year“My hashtag is blessed kapag passed, seems to be still reeling old daughter Marthena Jickain’s loveless,” Aiko smiled. from the severe aftermath of a schoolmates in the exclusive Saint There is a glow that comes from self-inflicted reversal of fortune Pedro Poveda College look up to within when she smiles. It comes involving sex, hookers and the the actress as their role model. from an abiding faith, nurtured tangled web one weaves when “One time, when I brought my by regular participation in Victory we deceive with impunity. It looks baby (Marthena) to school, two girls Christian fellowship services for the like in the postscript to Tiger’s Tale, came up to me and said, ‘Excuse me, past four years. Aiko Melendez big, bad karma will have the last can we have a picture with you?’ Photo from Instagram/@aikomelendez say on how the remainder of his No wonder she found it easy Asked why, they told me they want to take the first step in ending her about how Ara loves her so much, life story pans out as he continues to be like Emilia when they grow 16-year rift with Ara Mina. she had to give birth to Mandy a to struggle with a bad back and a up,” recalled the alarmed Aiko. “I’ve moved on long time ago,” day after her (Aiko’s) birthday in losing streak. She quickly told the girls, “No, Aiko said, adding that she was just December. On February 2010, Amy Bishop, please don’t (make Emilia your role waiting for “God’s perfect time” to Ara, for her part, told Aiko that a Harvard-trained neuroscientist model).” patch things up with Ara. Patrick plans to produce a movie killed 3 of her colleagues with The scene only shows the It can be recalled that Ara and for her. But Aiko is not keen on the a 9 mm gun in cold blood and impact Aiko’s character has, even on Aiko’s ex-husband Jomari Yllana project since she does not want to wounded three others, in a impressionable children. And the were rumored to be an item in ride on her past issues with Patrick faculty meeting in the University actress is understandably worried. 2001, or two years before the (and Ara) for the sake of box office of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). She chuckled, “If elections were “Balatkayo” star’s marriage to the success. Bishop’s rampage may have been held today, I’ll surely win (she’s actor was annulled. Ten years later, “I’m not yet ready,” admitted motivated by the fact that she mulling an offer to run for politics Ara was again linked to Bulacan Aiko. was denied tenure and will have again).” politician Patrick Meneses, Aiko’s Chances are, she will never to look for work elsewhere by But since elections will not be ex-boyfriend. bring up the issue again. the end of the spring semester around the corner until a few years Today, Aiko and Ara exchange Aiko is so blessed she does not of that year. She is married with from now, Aiko can sit back and friendly text messages. They take want to mar her happiness with 4 kids and appears to be the sole relax. turns wishing each other a happy uncalled-for controversy. family provider. With her action, At 41, the single parent is Sunday, with Aiko promising to In spite and despite of Emilia she decimated half the Biology happy -- never mind if she has pray for Ara when she goes to Ardiente and her own objections, Department and two of the been loveless for almost a year, and church later that day. Ara has Aiko is someone young people can wounded, were hit in the head. She admirers ask to go out with her. She introduced Aiko to Mandy, her turn to for lessons on forgiveness, went target shooting at the range would rather focus on work. (Ara’s) daughter with Patrick. strength and faith in the One prior to this. “Everything’s all right now. I Now, Aiko can manage to joke above. And who has not heard of Tiger Woods’ blazing fall from grace? Amy Bishop felt entitled. Tiger Woods himself admitted, “I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the
Aiko Melendez: ‘I don’t look for love anymore’
Maxine Medina jump starts showbiz career with ‘The Haunted’ 2: The Haunted.” While she had a cameo in 2014’s “Beauty in a Bottle” starring Angelica Panganiban, it is in “Spirit of the Glass” that her talent for the camera was truly put to the test. The verdict? “Nakakagulat si Maxine for a first timer,” was movie director
Jose Javier Reyes’ immediate reply. “What’s so nice about her ManilaTimes.net is number one, she’s a bright AFTER relinquishing her young woman. Number two, she Binibining Pilipinas crown in April, loves what she’s doing and she’s beauty queen Maxine Medina has having fun. And lastly, she’s willing crossed over to acting as part of to learn. When an artist has an the cast of the upcoming OctoArts attitude like that, there’s no way Pictures movie, “Spirit of The Glass you’re going to lose.” Reyes was behind the widely successful original installment of “Spirit of the Glass,” in 2004 which was a blockbuster at the Manila Film Festival. “Throughout the process— from the workshop to the shooting—Maxine was really interested to learn to to become an actress, and not just a celebrity. That makes a lot of difference If you watch the movie because she’s very sincere. I love working with her and I told her already that I can’t wait to work with her again,” praised the director. In “Spirit of the Glass 2,” Medina plays the role of Lisette, an actress and diva, along with Maxine Medina (top, center) with her co-stars (clockwise) Daniel Matsunaga, Cristine Reyes, co-leads Cristine Reyes as Bea—a Enrico Cuenca, Ashley Ortega and Benjamin Alves
by iza iglesias
3
An Asian Journal Magazine
Tales of entitlement (Part 1 of 2)
“...I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled...”
— Tiger Woods
lactose intolerant. Nor did she want her children to play with her neighborhood kids. Students at the UAH petitioned that she be removed from the classroom since she taught by reading from the textbook, didn’t make eye contact and was just plain ineffective in a classroom setting. There are other troubling incidents in her past life, such as, when she punched a woman at the local IHOP all because of a child booster seat while ranting profanities, raving and screaming, “I am Dr. Amy Bishop.” In another suspicious incident, she and her husband were among those investigated but never charged in the unresolved mail bombing case of Professor Paul Rosenberg of Harvard. It appears the professor was giving her a negative review of her postdoctoral work. No one could have predicted that Amy Bishop’s very vocal ranting and internal raging over something she felt entitled to would result in tragedy. Her appeal for tenure was denied that October. Sadly, one of her victims, the Biology Department head, Dr. Gopi Podila, a well-liked academic who immigrated from India, and who supported her appeal for tenure and even dismissed the students’ petition against her, was the first person, Amy Bishop shot dead. The other 2 are Dr. Maria Ragland Davis and Dr. Adriel Johnson, all in their early fifties and by all accounts, great human beings. She fired repeatedly at her friend, Dr. Debra Moriarity despite her pleas for mercy but the gun jammed and her friend lived to tell the gruesome details of the carnage. On April 2011, the Alabama Madison County District Attorney Robert Broussard said during a court proceeding that he would seek the death penalty for Amy Bishop. (Conclusion next week…)
temptations around me. I felt I was entitled…” Amy Bishop, who was perceived as brilliant inventor and scientist but a social oddball strongly, obsessively felt entitled to be given tenure at UAH. She had a secret, troubled past beginning with the death of her own 18 year old brother whom she shot in the heart 24 years ago with a shotgun, a case that was ruled accidental in Braintree, Massachusetts. Well past the statute of limitation, that case was never logged in the national database because she was never charged in that incident. In hindsight police officials now believe there was probable cause to charge her for what she did after the incident when she held a man at gunpoint in a nearby dealership demanding a get-away car and holding officers in a standoff. There are talks that because her mother, who had some clout, intervened and that there were some slip-ups in the chain of command, Bishop was effectively exonerated and nothing more was heard of this case until now. This important piece of information could have prevented the university from hiring her in the first place. Her husband, who appears delusional as she is, paints a pleasant picture of her as a mother and wife, in stark contrast from those who felt she was aloof and arrogant in her perceived superiority. She herself said she was arrogant because she is superior. She frequently mentioned Harvard in class and that she was a cousin of the author John Irving who wrote “The Cider House Rules” and “The World According to Garp.” Former neighbors in Massachusetts sighed in relief and held a pizza party when her family moved to Alabama. She and her husband had called the cops on their neighbors in excess of a dozen times over perceived slights to the point that the cops felt they could not do enough for them. She prevented the ice cream truck from coming to their street because her children were
*** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
portrayed by Daniel Matsunaga, Benjamin Alves and Enrico Cuenca. Of her baptism of fire, Medina says is one experience she will always remember for the rest of her life. For not only did she discover her talent for acting but also made very good friends in the cast. “We were given the opportunity to take a workshop where we bonded together. The result was overwhelming because we became friends. We joke around with each other all the time and during shooting, what I loved about them is that they took care of me whenever we did our scenes,” enthused the beauty queen who managed a Top 6 finish at the 2016 Miss Universe Miss Philippines Universe 2016 Maxine Medina pageant. Photo from Instagram/@maxine_medina Asked if it was harder to act stylist and fashion editor—and or compete for a title, the Interior Ashley Ortega as Chelsea, a Design graduate honestly replied, commercial and advertising “It’s hard to do both because model. Basking as “It Girls” on you’re also portraying a character social media, they each have a in pageant and as you are in a handsome boyfriend in characters movie. The only difference is that
in a pageant, you’re representing your country to the rest of the world. In a movie, you represent a different person.” The 27-year-old newbie actress said she is decided to pursue a career in acting because showbiz runs in her family. She is a cousin of actress Dianne Medina, and a niece to former Binibining Pilipinas-Universe 1990 Germelina Padilla. Her long-time boyfriend Marx Topacio is also an actor besides a model. “I enjoyed doing the movie. I am willing to pursue this because these kinds of opportunities should not be taken for granted,” she said. “I’ve done so many things in my life already, and this is probably the last thing I imagined I’d experience. But still, acting runs in our family. I thought, my cousin is in the industry, my aunties and uncles, and even my boyfriend are all in the industry, so I why not explore it? Thankfully, I’m having so much fun,” Medina added.
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FPAC FESTIVAL GUIDE / THE ASIAN JOURNAL WEEKEND SUPPLEMENT - October 14, 2017
features 57 An Asian Journal Magazine
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On the PEP Front
Travelogue: Western Europe escapade
People, Events, Places BoBBy T. yalong (PArt 1 of 3) AN underrated personal investment and oftentimes a lavish opportunity many are deprived of, traveling is an excellent escape from reality… a luxurious trek that offers more-than-life know-how while simultaneously broadening one’s awareness about people, places and events around the world…thus, bringing forth a renewed lifestyle and restructured direction. They say: “The world is a book and those who do not travel have read only one page.” Others still insist: “There’s no frigate like a book, so what’s the use of going places?” Though a lot would counteract: “Have money, will travel…!”Yeah, it’s all about the huge amount of money that entails with travel. But traveling doesn’t necessarily mean to overly spend. One could adjust to what is affordable and practical. A nearby city perhaps or some preserved historical edifices and churches, or a dream state across the coast could be sensible options…just so to have even a brief respite. Early in life, hodophobia (an irrational and intense fear of traveling) constantly held me back from any adventurous exploration especially aboard an aircraft or any form of water vessel only to realize the great amount of information and experiences I was missing. Yes, there are reading materials, movies, documentaries, and the
A group shot infront of the rizal monument one of Madrid’s elegant boulevards in Madrid, Spain
A multitude of faithfuls infront of the Basilica of fatima
the image of the Virgin of fatima
the walled city of Avila
like but there’s no alternative for traveling since it is where the real action is… and that eventually distorted my “primitive” concept and judiciously paved the way to more unambiguous perspectives. Breaking out of my shell gave me a better understanding of what life on the other side of the world really is. Aside from feeding my insights with first hand information, traveling provided me with a better understanding of existence and survival. And that, an exceptional occurrence of the interconnectedness of humanity even through merely a smile, an effortless head tilt, or a handshake gave me a strange feeling of belongingness. And yes, traveling could be addictive. My wife and I were instantly hooked after joining a tour group twice and that we’ve already toyed the idea of exploring Eastern Europe ironically while waiting to board British Airways 188 at the Newark Liberty International Airport for Spain. First sojourn: Madrid, Spain September 30 to October 2 the piece of wood St. teresa used as her pillow A jocular group of sixteen
(majority were retired nurses) with a few familiar faces who used to be our traveling companions way back in 2015 and 2016, restlessly awaited for boarding time. A roll call was initiated by our tour organizer Josette Loredo for assurance that not a single soul had gone astray: Helen Latoja, Sabiniana Limbaro, Rebecca Nicdao, Celia Sagun, Norma Trinidad, Nene Baculi, Lourdes Catalan, Claire St. Julien, Daisy B. Marcelino, Bien F. Marcelino, Teresa Uy, Dawn Martinez, Reynaldo Villa, Venny D. Yalong, and me. Flight info: Departed Newark: September 30 at 9:30 PM Arrived London 9:20 AM October 1 Departed London Heathrow at 2:05 PM (British Airways 460) Arrived Madrid at 5:30 PM Time Difference: Newark and London – 5 hours ahead Newark and Madrid – 6 hours ahead London and Madrid, Spain – Madrid is 1 hour ahead of London The protracted travel time (7 hours from Newark to London plus 5 grueling hours of layover at Heathrow Airport and another 2 ½ hours from London to Madrid) was
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unbearably draining and exhausting but instantaneously recharged upon sight of Madrid’s elegant boulevards, romantic rotondas, and fine architecture. We were met at the airport by our tourist guide and driver for the entire duration of our tour: Patrick Doyle, a fatherly Scottish-Irish but London resident and Jorge Cano Perez, a lean Spanish guy, respectively. Hotel NH Madrid Zurbano along Calle de Zurbano, 79-81 became our first home away from home. Our tour guide Patrick briefed us on some pertinent information about Spain that indubitably boosted our sense of historical comprehension and learned that: Universidad de Salamanca in northwestern region is the oldest university and key intellectual center in Spain which was founded in the 1100s; that Spain produces more Valencia oranges than California that created the hybrid; and that it was the Arabs who first invaded and took siege of Spain and the nearby countries. Our first day in Madrid gave us a guided sightseeing from our
Lbc brings holiday cheers to overseas Filipinos as boc suspends tariff act on balikbayan boxes LBC’s customers abroad who are now busy filling up Balikbayan boxes to send to their loved ones here in the country will now be able to do so without worrying about the rules and regulations imposed by the Bureau of Customs last August 1, 2017 This is after BOC Commissioner Isidro Lapena issued a memorandum last September 28, 2017 suspending the implementation of the Customs Modernization Tariff Act (CMTA) until March 31, 2018. The CMTA carried with it certain provisions which set parameters for Balikbayan shipments and who was qualified to send them so they can avail of tax exemptions. Because of the suspension, there is no more need for Overseas Filipinos (OFs) to submit documents like motorcoach: Puerta del Sol, Plaza de Espana with its monument of Cervantes, the Cibeles Fountain, the stylish Calle Alcala, Paeo de Castellana and the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal. The day’s highlight was a visit to the world renowned Museo Nacional del Prado which houses the priceless art and treasures of Spain dating from the 12th century to the renaissance period particularly the artworks of Francisco Goya, Domenikos Theotokopoulos aka El Greco, Francisco Herrera, Diego Velazquez, Peter Paul Rubens,
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information sheet; a photocopy of the passport; and, invoice or proof of purchase of items to be sent thru the Balikbayan Box. There is also no need to fill up Customs’ forms detailing the gifts to be sent. There is also no more limit to the number of times an OF can send a Balikbayan Box and there is no more cap or maximum amount than each box can carry. And the better news is, the P150,000 duty and tax-free privelege on the Balikbayan Box remains! LBC, the largest and leading forwarding company in the Philippines, welcomed the development saying many Overseas Filipinos are still unaccustomed to the CMTA and that the suspension will give them time to focus, instead, on sending joy and gifts to loved ones this Holiday Season.
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Titian, and Salvador Dali. Pablo Picasso’s “Guernica” (1937) was added to the museum in 1981. Currently the museum boasts of 8,200 drawings, 7,600 paintings, 4,800 prints, and 1,000 sculptures. The other popular museum that we failed to visit was The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia which is Spain’s national museum of the 20th century art. After lunch we resumed our trip to the walled town of Avila, 88 km. from Madrid and about an hour Continued on Page 7
New York Consulate General bridges through books for Fil-Am History Month new YorK – The Philippine Consulate general turned over books on Philippine history and literature at a simple program at the new York Public Library (nYPL) on oct. 16. The book donation under the auspices of the Consulate general’s “Bridging Through Books” program for Filipino-American History Month, took place in the presence of Dr. Jason Baumann, Susan and Douglas Dillon Assistant Director for Collection Development of the nYPL. The books were turned over by Consul general Theresa
Dizon-de Vega and Cultural officer olive osiasMagpile. Among the books donated by the Consulate include works by historian Ambeth ocampo and Philippine national Artist nick Joaquin. The Knights of rizal-new York Chapter led by current President Michael Dadap also turned over copies of the Penguin Classics editions of Jose P. rizal’s noli Me Tangere and el Filibusterismo to the Library. in handing over the books, Consul general
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Dizon-De Vega noted that even in an increasingly technological age, a large segment of the public still value and read printed books and the works on the Philippines will contribute to a greater understanding of Philippine history and culture. in the U.S. The Consulate general is set undertake two more book donation ceremonies with the Jersey City Public Library and the Bergenfield Public Library in new Jersey during Filipino-American History Month.
SPAA exhibit honors Mang Maning rodriguez Some of the works to be shown 23 Oct - 3 Nov By robert
P. De tagle
SPAA, the Society of Philippine American Artists, celebrates this year at its annual exhibit with a tribute to one of its co-founders, Manuel rodriguez Sr., known to many as Mang Maning, who passed away this year. The exhibit will run on weekdays from 23 october to 3 november at the Philippine Center, 556 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, from 9am to 5pm, and the artists’ reception set for 24 october from 6 to 8:30pm, with Philippine Consul general Tess Dizon-De Vega as guest of honor.
Travelogue: Western Europe... From Page 6 and a half drive, where St. Theresa founded the order of the Carmelites Sisters. Located in the autonomous community of Castile and Leon, Avila claims to have the highest number of romanesque and gothic churches in Spain that made it to UneSCo’s world Heritage Site in 1985.we visited the Cathedral, the Convent of Santa Teresa, and the Monastery of La encarnacion.
we were billeted at Hotel Fontecruz Avila (along Carretera Antigua de Cabreros) for the night with a sumptuous dinner. October 3 and 4, Fatima, Portugal The centenary celebration of the Fatima Apparition we left Avila after breakfast and by 8:00 AM we’re already Portugalbound…a long 8-hour drive covering 222 miles. we regularly
Shot against the facade of the Prado Museum (Madrid, Spain)
The Church of Sta. Teresa de Avila
while SPAA is concentrated in the new York/new Jersey area, past and present members have been based widely, including DC/ Virginia, the west Coast, Vancouver, Canada, Manila, and elsewhere. This year’s exhibitors include Ameurfina nazario, Angelito L. David, Angelo Maristela, Anna Leah Sanson, Archie reyes, Art Zamora, Athena Magcase-Lopez, Aurora Caparas-Corpuz, Carlos L. esguerra, Chato Morando, Cheryle Cranbourne, Ching Valdes-Aran, Christian Blaza, Dulcie Dee, esmie gayo McLaren, godfrey Pinder, Julian oteyza,
Lenore rS Lim, Lorina Capitulo, Lulu Villamater, Mae Palaci, Marcelino rodriguez, Mars Custodio, May Jennifer ArrolatApiado, Mirinisa Myers, racco Maristela, reynaldo g. Cardenas, robert Perez De Tagle, ronald Cortez and Tessie Dichupa. For more info, contact the Philippine Center at 212.575.4774, or email tenni1952@yahoo.com. ***
James Reid and Janno Gibbs
Photo from Viva Artists Agency
Janno Gibbs passes Pedro Penduko torch to James Reid by Clarizel abanilla
Singer-comedian and original Pedro Penduko actor Janno gibbs has handed the torch of the iconic character to Kapamilya heartthrob James reid. in an announcement by Viva Artists Agency, reid and gibbs were seen together in a photo with the caption, “Si Penduko noon at Ang Penduko ngayon!” (Penduko before and the new Penduko) The first Filipino actors to play Pedro Penduko on the big screen were efren reyes Sr. in 1954 and ramon Zamora in 1973. But the most famous version of Pedro Penduko was given life by gibbs.
He first did “Ang Pagbabalik ni Pedro Penduko” in 1994 which he starred in with fellow comedians Leo Martinez, Chiquito and Arnel ignacio, among others. His leading ladies were Donita rose and Vina Morales. it was only years after in 2000 that he did a remake of the movie through the hit “Pedro Penduko, episode ii: The return of the Comeback”. This time, his daughter Alyssa gibbs was already part of the cast. His leading lady was LJ Moreno. reid, meanwhile, now starts his training for the movie. Just as in the past movies, Viva Films will be producing the next “Pedro Penduko” film.
aging grand niece of Lucia’s sister who, at more than 90 years old, appeared to be in full sanity. Feasting over grilled fresh sardines at O’Perreira in Fatima, Portugal The Fatima phenomenon all evening’s rosary and candlelight stopped at roadside cafes to dine, the more strengthens the faith of procession at the our Lady of Fatima Christian believers all over the world refresh, and relieve every after 2 Shrine. hours. The fascinating panoramic and we were not surprised at all The following day awaited a views and majestic sceneries of to find millions of pilgrims visiting hectic schedule. As early as 8, we Serra da estrela mountain range the shrine and to think it was still a were met by our tour guide for a brightened our extensive road trip week before the occurrence of the visit to Aljustrel, the home village of actual event. The much publicized made even endurable when we the three shepherds, Lucia Santos stopped at Fuentes de Honoro in arrival of His Holiness Pope Francis (10) and her cousins Jacinta (7) and Salamanca for snack and shopping. on october 13 to say mass built the Francisco Marto (9) who were the The group arrived at Fatima, excitement even more. key players in the Marian apparition Portugal at almost sundown we were given an early break at the Cova da iria fields where and ushered at the Hotel estrella from the tour that allowed us to they pasture and tend their flock of de Fatima (rua Conego nunes spend more time shopping for sheep. Formigao), a four-star hotel souvenir items. we visited the visionaries strategically located just across the That evening we escaped from birthplaces, their well-preserved Basilica’s patio. our hotel dinner. i invited Helen, houses, the environment where they nene, and Claire (and my wife, Being familiar with the place grew up, the parish church where (been here last october 2015), i of course) to dine at o’Perreira, a the visionaries were baptized, the excitedly revisit recognizable tiendas modest Portuguese restaurant cemetery where the siblings were and stalls for souvenir items even known for serving freshly grilled initially buried, and even met an before dinner. The group joined the sardines paired with a perfect salad
of tomatoes, onions, and olives. Two full platters of sardines failed to suffice our craving and another was impetuously ordered. Actually we discovered the place when we first went to Fatima two years ago and swore to be back, not only for the most venerated icon but for the sardines. we were warmly welcomed back (they recognized us instantly) by the father and son that manage the eatery… and even accommodated us for some souvenir shots just like how we posed before. retreated late to bed with the anticipation of another long journey after breakfast the following morning… another exciting trip awaits….! next issue: Back to Spain en route to France. For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo. com.
Robert P. De Tagle, ArtempoNY@gmail. com, organizes events and supports Fil-Am history and Asian-American events in the Metro NY/NJ area, and serves as editorial consultant to various organizations.
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TRAVEL TRADE & CONSUMER MULTI-CITY ROADSHOWS PROMOTING TOURISM, TRADE, AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN THE USA AND PHILIPPINES.
AUGUST 2018
The Asian Journal Media Group, now on its 27th year in business, is a leading ethnic multimedia agency serving the global Filipino industry. Asian Journal publishes over 7 million weekly community newspapers annually in the USA from California, Nevada, New York, to New Jersey. In addition to this, the Asian Journal also publishes a quarterly magazine that is distributed in 60 countries and 101 cities throughout the World. Complementing these frequent print publications are a variety of digital channels such as AsianJournal.com, BalikbayanMag.com, and LoveOfCounry.ph. As an extension of that core mission, the Asian Journal, in cooperation with the Philippine Departments of Tourism (DOT), and Trade and Industry (DTI), is organizing multi-city “Travel, Trade, and Consumer Roadshows” to connect the US and Philippine markets together. These events are in line with the “Balikbayan Program” of the Department of Tourism and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and the “One Town, One Product” of the DTI. The organizers collectively aim to ignite, drive, and fuel business-to-business, government-to-business, and business-to-consumer networking while showcasing and promoting tourism, investment, studying abroad, philanthropy, and retirement in the Philippines.
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