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Asia’s Iron Lady Miriam Defensor-Santiago passes away at 71 by dana
sioson AJPress
After battling lung cancer, senator miriam-Defensor santiago passed away at the age of 71 on thursday morning, september 29. the senator passed away while being confined at the st. Luke’s medical Center in Bonifacio Global City. “she died this morning in her sleep. she was unconscious when she passed away,� her husband, Atty. Narciso
DATELINE
“Jun� santiago, told inquirer. In 2014, miriam was diagnosed with late-stage lung cancer but later declared that she had “conquered� her illness a year after. her remains were brought to the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral in Cubao. In a statement, President rodrigo Duterte expressed his sympathies to the families of the late senator. “she is best remembered as a graft
buster ‘eating death threats for breakfast’ earning her the title ‘Iron Lady of Asia,’� Duterte said, who is presently in Vietnam for a two-day official visit. “rest in peace, madam senator. may your legacy continue to guide this nation for many years to come,� the president added. Born in Iloilo City on June 15, 1945, miriam was one of the most notable figure in Philippine politics. she was dubbed as the “Iron Lady of Asia� for
her strong campaign against corruption. recently, she ran for presidency in the may 2016 elections despite the doubts cast regarding her health. the 2016 elections was won by current president Duterte. she also sought the presidency in 1992 and lost to fidel ramos, and in 1998 which was won by Joseph estrada. PAGE A2 Former Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago
Friends, enemies pay tribute to ‘Iron Lady’
USA
by PaoLo
romero Philstar.com
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
Filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional Gold Medal Act gets closer to passage filipino veterans who fought in World War II are closer to receiving the Congressional Gold medal (CGm), one of the highest civilians awards in the United states. After the senate unanimously approved the filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional Gold medal Act of 2015, the bill received enough co-sponsors in the house of representatives. on July 13, the bill passed in the senate and was sponsored by the likes of senators mazie hirono (D-hI), Dean heller (r-Nev.), harry PAGE A4
ASEAN @ 50 iN 2017 PH officials look forward to ASEAN’s 50th anniversary, PH hosting summits and meetings NeW YorK – Department of foreign Affairs Undersecretary enrique manalo led visiting DfA-AseAN officials in a filipino community townhall meeting Wednesday, sept. 28 to promote the Phiippines’ chairmanship next year of AseAN in its golden year. the delegation was in New York to attend the UN General Assembly, along with AseAN meetings and conferences on the PAGE A3
The coffin carrying the remains of former senator Miriam Defensor- Santiago arrives at the Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral in Cubao, Quezon City on Thursday, Sept. 29. President Duterte paid tribute to former senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago yesterday, expressing hope that her legacy would “continue to guide this nation for many years to come.� Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman
mANILA – “I have no illusions about myself, about my life, about leaving a legacy, or making a mark in people’s lives. We are so insignificant. We are only here for a blink.� former senator miriam Defensor-santiago, who passed away at age 71 on thursda, sept. 29, wrote these in her book, “stupid is forever�. her words proved she was a woman of contradiction, given the tributes that poured in as news about her death spread: the Iron Lady of Asia who would melt whenever her husband and family were around; feisty but caring, sweet and funny; an intellectual who could easily connect with the masses with her pick-up, hugot or taray lines; and a grandmother who became a social media darling, popular with the millennials and the youth. As a public servant, she had her ups and downs. But the magic and power of her words, along with her works particularly as judge, immigration commissioner and then lawmaker, made friends and enemies agree that her death marked the end of an era in Philippine politics. PAGE A2
PH to US: Let us chart our own course by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com
Viray
mANILA – the Philippines respects the opinion of other nations but called on longtime ally the United states to let it chart its own course, a Palace official said on thursday, sept. 29. An American senator earlier warned that the Us may take action if extrajudicial killings and state-sanctioned violence continue in the Philippines. “We respect the opinion of others but we also give ourselves the permission to chart our own course and fulfill our destiny on our own
terms,â€? Presidential spokesperson ernesto Abella said in a press briefing. Abella stressed that the relationship between the Philippines and the Us remains unchanged despite differences in political perspectives and opinions. “We’d also like to stress that extrajudicial killings is not state-sanctioned and that the Philippines remains committed to human rights, the rule of law, and to democracy,â€? Abella said. Us sen. Patrick Leahy said that the Us state Department is set to discuss with the Us senate its current assistance for the Philippines. President Rodrigo Duterte is inside an official state car with Special Assistant to the this will affect the national budget of the Us President Christopher Lawrence Go following a meeting at the State Palace in Hanoi, MalacaĂąang photo by King Rodriguez PAGE A2 Vietnam on Thursday, Sept. 29.
5 Fil-Ams named to Trump’s APA advisory committee US unruffled by Duterte’s tirades by christina
m. orieL
the formation of the committee was first introduced during an APA National As the November election ap- forum at the sidelines of the republican proaches, the campaign of republican National Convention last July, the Asian presidential nominee Donald trump Journal previously reported. “the committee members will supformally announced its Asian Pacific American (APA) Advisory Committee port and strengthen ties to each comin an effort to reach out to the fast- munity and provide recommendations growing Asian American and Pacific on how best to ensure AAPI voices are heard and included in the campaign,� Islander (AAPI) electorate. AJPress
Utah Attorney General Sean Former U.S. Congressman Steve Reyes AJPress photo by Austria of Ohio Robert Macabagdal
said a release by the trump campaign on sunday, sept. 25, a day ahead of the first presidential debate against Democratic nominee hillary Clinton. the 31-member committee — comprised of a mix of male and female elected, appointed and grassroots leaders who believe in the republican nominee’s message to “make America
Brunswick, Ohio Mayor Ron Ron Villanueva, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates Falconi
PAGE A3
Herman Martir, a pastor in Texas
by PaoLo
romero Philstar.com
WAshINGtoN – the United states, on the surface at least, appears unruffled by President Duterte’s repeated tirades. Bristling at Us criticism of extrajudicial killings under his war on drugs, Duterte has insulted President Barack obama, forcing the American leader to cancel a meeting between them. Duterte has also maligned the Us ambassador, called for the withdrawal of Us forces from mindanao and an end to joint patrols with the Us Navy in the south China sea. “It is hard to do business with a country whose president, every few days now it seems, says things that presumably cause some consternation here,� state Department spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday, sept. 28 at his press briefing. “What I would say is, broadly speaking, we continue to focus on our relationship with the Philippines – built on
State Department spokesman John Kirby
shared sacrifices for democracy and human rights, and strong people-topeople and societal ties, and obviously we’d like to see that continue,� Kirby said. “the bottom line is that the United states has significant security commitments with the Philippines and is committed to meeting those commitments PAGE A3
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Friends, enemies pay tribute... PAGE A1
Santiago’s former colleagues at the Senate, along with the new senators and others who mourned her death, described her as one of a kind, what with her “intelligence, courage and wit,” and that the session hall would be boring without her. “She was brains, beauty and balls,” Senate Minority Leader Ralph Recto said, adding Santia-
go “set the benchmark in clarity of thought and convincing discourse.” Recto said Santiago rarely used invectives or cursed in debates, “but she was able to demolish her opponents using language that was devastating yet most elegant.” As an intellectual giant, Recto said those who would come after her would be reduced as “stu-
From the Front Page
dents forever” cherishing her words as beacons that would “light their way and illuminate their minds.” Former Senate president Manuel Villar Jr. said Santiago left behind a legacy and a body of work that would be hard to beat. “She personified legislative vigor and sharpness. She epitomized the Senate’s self-designated role as the last line of defense versus threats to democracy and mediocrity,” Villar said. “Miriam held herself high in the Parthenon of ideas and ideals. In the halls of the Senate dominated by bears, she was the lioness. If the intellectual meter in the chamber is low, Miriam can always be depended on to deliver the cerebral serum,” Villar noted. As a personal friend, Villar said Santiago could be sometimes “acerbic and brutal” but I could “vouch for her honesty.” “I know her as a loving and caring person. She was always bigger than life. Vintage Miriam,” Villar said. Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano described Santiago as a “towering figure among titans of the Senate halls” like the late senators Joker Arroyo, Ernesto Maceda and Jovito Salonga. Quezon City Rep. Feliciano Belmonte Jr., who is godfather to Santiago’s son who passed away years back, said he and his family were saddened by her death. “Philippine politics will not be the same without the staunch and feisty Miriam. We will miss her intelligence, wit and vast legal expertise which she has shared as university professor and earned for the country the distinction of being the first Asian elected judge to the International Criminal Court,” Belmonte said. “It is a privilege to have worked with Miriam and we thank her for her dedication to the country, having served well in the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government,” Belmonte added. Rep. Lito Atienza of party-list group Buhay said the nation “lost a fearless fighter” and an ideal public servant. “We will always cherish our struggles in her presidential candidacy in 1992,” Atienza said. Villar’s wife and incumbent PAGE A4
FREE FOR NOW. A Manila court on Monday, Sept. 26 suspended the arraignment of Lt. Colonel Ferdinand Marcelino who was charged with possession of illegal drugs by the Department of Justice. Judge Felicitas Laron-Cacanindin of the Regional Trial Court Branch 17 gave the Justice department and the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) 10 and five days, respectively, to submit their replies. The judge granted the motion of PAO chief Persida Rueda-Acosta to suspend the arraignment since there was no warrant of arrest. ManilaTimes.net photo by DJ Diosina
Asia’s Iron Lady Miriam... PAGE A1 Miriam served as senator for three terms. She was elected in 1995, and again in 2004 and in 2010. She first became a regional trial court judge in Quezon City Immigration commissioner and then an Agrarian Reform Secretary during President Corazon Aquino’s administration, prior to
her senatorial career. Aside from politics, Miriam was also renowned for her academic achievements. She graduated magna cum laude and cum laude in Political Science and Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines respectively. She then pursued further studies both in the Philip-
pines and abroad. The senator is also known for her jokes, one-liners, pick up lines, comebacks, and feisty speeches. The late senator even released a compilation of her humor entitled “Stupid Is Forever,” which is 2014’s fastest-selling and best-selling book, according to the National Book Store.
PH to US: Let us chart our... PAGE A1
Sen. Patrick Leahy
Sen. Benjamin Cardin
for next year. The American senator authored the Leahy Law, which prohibits the US Department of State and Department of Defense from providing assistance to foreign military units that violate human rights. ‘Philippines committed to human rights’ The Palace official said that the Philippines has not veered away from its commitment to human rights despite the strong stance of President Rodrigo Duterte against illegal drugs. “The drug problem in the Philippines itself is so pervasive that it undermines the human rights of the people and the rule of law,” the presidential spokesper-
son said. Abella maintained that the Philippines is committed to international agreements on human rights and that Filipinos continue to enjoy civil and political rights despite the new administration’s war on drugs. The alliance between the Philippines and the US dates back to the 1950s, during which the two countries signed a Mutual Defense Treat, although ties can be traced back further to when the country was a US colony. Duterte, however, has announced that he wants an end to the joint military exercises between Filipino and American troops. The president noted that China is not in favor of Philippine soldiers holding war games with the US.
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PH officials look forward to ASEAN’s 50th... PAGE A1
FAKE BIBLE CONTRABAND. A pocket Bible with pages partially cut out to form a case where prisoners can put contraband items is confiscated by Special Action Forces from inmates at the New Bilibid Prisons maximum compound in Muntinlupa City on Tuesday, Sept. 27. Written on the inside page reads, “Drug users didn’t go old, because they die young.” Inquirer.net photo by Lyn Rillon
5 Fil-Ams named to Trump’s APA advisory... PAGE A1 Great Again” — includes cochairs Guam Gov. Eddie Calvo and Northern Mariana Islands Gov. Ralph Torres, former Labor Secretary Elaine Chao and Korean Americans for Trump founder Lisa Shin. Of that number, five are Filipino-Americans: former U.S. Congressman Steve Austria (ROhio); Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes; Brunswick, Ohio Mayor Ron Falconi; Ron Villanueva, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates; and Pastor Herman Martir of Texas. Reyes, who is Filipino on his father’s side, spoke on behalf of the Trump campaign during the Presidential Election Forum hosted by Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAVote) and the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) in August. He highlighted the real estate billionaire’s views on issues like business regulations and immigration and even clarified the controversial Philippines as a “terrorist nation” remarks. “I think Filipinos need to educate themselves that Donald Trump can truly make America great again,” Reyes told the Asian Journal at the party’s convention in July. Noting how the AAPI vote is crucial and could swing races, the Republican National Committee (RNC) has been trying to
court the population, most notably with the launch of the Republican Leadership Initiative (RLI) in 2015 to train AAPI millennials to engage their communities on a grassroots level. “The diversity of Mr. Trump’s AAPI advisory council represents his commitment to the interests of our entire AAPI community,” Fil-Am Ninio Fetalvo, a spokesman for the RNC, told the Asian Journal in an email. “Coupled with the RNC’s historic ground game efforts that have had a presence in AAPI communities across the country for the past three years, we are confident that Asian Americans will turn out for Mr. Trump and the Republican Party ticket on Election Day.” He added that the strength of the RNC’s outreach showed when AAPIs leaned more to the right during the 2014 midterm elections. Additional members of the committee will be added in the future, the Trump campaign said. The Clinton campaign shrugged off Trump’s attempt to convince AAPI voters to vote for him, noting that it has been engaging with the population since the former secretary of state launched her presidential bid. Earlier this year, her campaign released an AAPI fact sheet that outlined her plans to address various matters, ranging from
sidelines. They also delivered talks at the Seton Hall University and Fordham University in order to raise awareness of the ASEAN and the work that they do among the Asian American faculty and students. Joining the undersecretary were Elizabeth Buensuceso, permanent representative of the Philippines to ASEAN; DFA Assistant Secretary Hellen de la Vega; Office of ASEAN Affairs executive director Zaldy Patron and Office of ASEAN Affairs director Edgar Badajos. “We are also here in New York to reach out to the various student groups and the Filipino community here to raise awareness of the ASEAN and the fact that the Philippines will be the chair of ASEAN for 2017,” Manalo said. President Rodrigo R. Duterte received the chairmanship of the association during the recently concluded ASEAN summit held in Vientiane, Laos earlier this month. The Philippines is one of the five founding members of the ASEAN, through the Bangkok Declaration of August 8, 1967 signed by the foreign ministers of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam complete the ten-country roster of the association. As a group, ASEAN is the third largest economy in the world and one of the largest markets in the world, according to Manalo. The officials are all looking forward to the hosting of the Philippines of next year’s major ASEAN events such as the summits and meetings on the sidelines. ASEAN at 50 will have the theme “Partnering for Change,
reducing the visa backlog for Filipinos and fighting for comprehensive immigration reform. “Donald Trump’s last-ditch effort to gain the AAPI vote by launching an Asian Pacific American Advisory Council with less than 50 days before the election is too little, too late. Hillary Clinton has had a career-long record of fighting for the best interests of the AAPI community, and has shown her commitment since the start of her campaign. Hillary Clinton has specifically laid out a comprehensive plan to tackle the issues that AAPIs care about. This November, we are confident that the AAPI vote will reflect the community’s overwhelming support for her,” Jason Tengco, AAPI outreach director of Clinton’s campaign, told the Asian Journal in an email. In May, nonpartisan groups APIAVote, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC and AAPI Data released “Inclusion, Not Exclusion,” a voter survey exam- PAGE A1 ining the trends within the Asian and to furthering this relationAmerican population. ship,” he said. According to the findings, 31 Kirby was commenting on percent of Filipinos reported a Duterte’s announcement that he favorable view of the Republican is serving notice to the AmeriParty, compared to 64 percent cans that an upcoming joint of Filipinos for the Democratic military exercise with the US Party. will be the last between the two Thirty-six percent of Filipinos countries. responded that they are planning A few days ago, Duterte said to vote for Clinton, while 11 per- he was seeking to pursue alcent for Trump. liances or partnerships with
Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Enrique Manalo (center) with his colleagues from the DFA (from left) Edgar Badajos, Office of ASEAN Affairs director; Elizabeth Buensuceso, permanent representative of the Philippines to ASEAN; Hellen De La Vega, DFA assistant secretary and Zaldy Patron, Office of ASEAN Affairs executive director. AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya
Engaging the World”. “We’re talking about change, change for the many and not just for the few, change that will help those who are marginalized, victims of calamities, among others,” said assistant secretary De La Vega. “That means ASEAN for the farmers, the teachers, fishermen and change that they will truly feel.” “We are all going to be very busy next year and we enjoin you to become part of the celebrations. We’re also celebrating 40 years of ASEAN-US part-
US unruffled by Duterte’s... China and Russia, two potential adversaries of the US. “They’re a sovereign nation and we’re certainly not going to hold them back from pursuing closer relations with either of those countries,” said State Department deputy spokesman Mark Toner. Kirby and Toner said the US alliance with the Philippines was broad and one of the most enduring and important rela-
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nership and ASEAN-Canada, ASEAN-EU relations next year,” Buensuceso said. Next year’s summit will be the third time for the Philippines to host. The last time the Philippines hosted it was in 2007 under President Gloria Arroyo and prior to that, in 1987 under President Corazon Aquino. “There will be two major events next year, the 30th summit around April and the 31st summit around November,” shared Patron. (Momar G. Visaya/AJPress)
tionships in the Asia Pacific region. The US and the Philippines have a Mutual Defense Treaty signed in 1951, which commits both nations to support each other if either is attacked by an external party. They also have an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which allows US troops and supplies rotational access to Philippine military bases.
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Filipino boxer Nietes wins 12 rounds and National, state lawmakers hope unanimous decision in flyweight debut to maximize impact of AAPI vote by Eric
Anthony LicAs
by Eric
AJPress
CARSON, Calif. — Filipino boxer Donnie “Ahas” Nietes dispelled any doubts about his viability as a flyweight by defeating former WBC champion Edgar Sosa to claim the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) title at the StubHub Center on Saturday, September 24. Nietes, who now holds a professional record of 39-1-4 (winloss-draw), earned the judges’ nod in all 12 rounds of the fight to win a unanimous 120-108 decision. His opponent seemed to play the aggressor in order to make up for lost rounds, especially later in the fight when Nietes managed to land devastating counterattacks. An overhand right from the first-time flyweight late in the tenth round visibly rattled Sosa. The more experienced fighter managed to avoid an extended trip to the canvas, but drops to a professional record of 52-10 after Saturday night. “Hindi ako nagmamadali na iknockout si Sosa (I wasn’t in a hurry to knockout Sosa),” Nietes told reporters and fight fans after the match. His decisive win was preceded by strong performances from Filipino boxers throughout the event’s main card. After earning a controversial victory from what turned out to be an accidental bumping of heads in his first fight against Juan “El Penita” Jimenez, ”King” Arthur
Donnie “Ahas” Nietes, adds the Wolrd Boxing Organization’s (WBO) inernational flyweight title to his impressive list of accomplishments on Saturday, September 4 at the StubHub Center in Carson, California. Contributed photo by Jhay Oh Otamias / Philboxing.com
Villanueva came back to settle the score in spectacular fashion. Moments after escaping from the corner of the ring during the second round, Villanueva caught Jimenez with a fierce right cross as the challenger stepped around “King” in an attempt to deliver a blow of his own. That punch sent “El Penita” sprawling face first into the canvas and drew a collective gasp from fight fans in the arena. Referee Jimmy Cantu stopped the fight as Jimenez, who now holds a record of 22-11-0, struggled to find his legs, resulting in Villanueva’s successful defense of his WBO Asia-Pacific Bantamweight title. The victor improved his record to 30-1-0. Meanwhile, Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo handily defeated Ramiro Robles, who was a late replacement on the fight lineup with a current professional record of 13-6-1. Magsayo scored
knockdowns in the second and seventh rounds, but both fighters managed to go the distance. After earning a unanimous decision, “Magnifico” retained his recently won WBO featherweight title and his undefeated (15-0) professional record. Saturday’s matches showcased the formidability of fighters coming out of the Philippines, and signaled promise for the future of Filipino boxing. Nietes had told members of the media that he wanted to explore heavier weight classes in pursuit of more illustrious matchups. “Mate-test ko kung hanggang saan ang lakas ko dito sa 112 (pounds) (I’m testing my strength at 112 (pounds)),” Nietes said after his victory. “Ahas,” who hasn’t lost a fight in 12 years, proved on Saturday night that he will be a force to be reckoned with in the flyweight division.
Anthony LicAs AJPress
IN celebration of National Voter Registration Day on Tuesday, September 27, elected officials encouraged Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) to secure their right to be heard by registering to vote. The nonpartisan organization, Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAvote), invited national and state legislators from across the country to discuss the importance of raising voter turnout amongst AAPIs during a web conference on Tuesday. They are the fastest-growing demographic and electorate in America, and represent critical votes in hotly contested political contests throughout the nation, according to Democratic Rep. Judy Chu of California’s 27th district. “We have gone from being marginalized to being the margin of victory,” said Chu during the conference. “Regardless of what party you belong to, or which candidate you back, there’s
one thing I know: we, the AAPI population make a difference in this election.” The November election will set the course for emergent policy debates on issues affecting the AAPI community like immigration, education and the economy, said Democratic Virginia House Delegate Mark Keam on Tuesday. However, Rep. Grace Meng (D-New York) of the state’s 6th district pointed out during the conference that only about 60 percent of eligible AAPI voters typically registers to vote. In comparison, the registration rate is 78 percent amongst all eligible Americans. “If we don’t secure a seat at the table, we’re going to be on the menu,” said New Jersey Assemblyman Raj Mukherji on Tuesday. He went on to say that voter turnout drops dramatically, particularly amongst first generation Americans, in off-year elections. Mukherji called upon voters to cast their ballots during these
less publicized contests, where their voices would have a greater effect on the outcome. He hopes the wave of political engagement that comes with a presidential race will not dissipate in the years that follow. “2016 is going to be the largest mobilization effort of AAPI voters we’ve ever seen in history,” said APIAVote Executive Director Christine Chen. However, time is running out. Registration forms must be postmarked or submitted online by Friday, October 14 in New York, Tuesday, October 18 in Nevada, and Monday, October 24 in California. APIAVote partners will continue to conduct outreach and signup events throughout the registration period in 25 states at grocery stores, cultural centers, temples, boba shops, and a wide variety of other locations. These gatherings also allow people to check the status of their registration, learn what’s on their ballots, and develop a plan for November 8.
Filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional... PAGE A1
Reid (D-Nev.) and Brian Schatz (D-HI). As of Monday, September 26, the House version of the bill received 299 co-sponsors including Representatives Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI), Joseph Heck (R-Nev.), Juan Vargas (D-Ca-
lif.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Mark Takai (D-HI) Jackie Speier (D-Calif.) and vice presidential candidate Sen. Tim Kaine (DVa.). The award would collectively honor the more than 260,000 Filipinos who lent their efforts on behalf of the United States during the second world war. As previously reported by the Asian Journal, less than 16,000 of those soldiers are alive today. “This is a significant step forward in the long battle for due recognition of our veterans who courageously fought side by side with the Americans in the defense of freedom and democracy,” Minister Patrick Chuasoto, Charge d’Affaires ad interim of the Philippine Embassy said in a statement. If passed, the Filipino WWII veterans join other ethnic military groups that have been awarded the CGM like the Tuskegee airmen, the Navajo Code Talkers, Women Air Service Pilots and more, according to Cecilia Gaerlan, executive director of Bataan Legacy Historical Society, an organization that seeks to preserve the historical significance of Filipinos’ role in
WWII. The Filipino Veterans of WWII Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 was introduced on June 11, 2015 and was supported by the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP). FilVetREP was formed last year to obtain national recognition and awareness of the Filipinos’ efforts in WWII. They plan to conduct research on the Filipino American experience during the war and seek to bring the Filipino side of the war to light. The California State Board of Education recently approved curriculum changes of the state’s high schools to incorporate more information about Filipinos’ roles in the war in Grade 11 U.S. History lesson plans. Earlier this year, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rolled out a new family-based immigration program for Filipino WWII veterans and their families called the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
Friends, enemies pay tribute... PAGE A2
senator Cynthia said Santiago would be remembered as an icon for women because of her fighting spirit. Sen. Grace Poe called for a moment of silence during a hearing on the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill by the Senate committee of public information upon learning of Santiago’s death. She recalled that as a young senator, she had sleepless nights in 2013 preparing after finding out that Santiago would interpellate her as she was about to defend for the first time the FOI bill on the floor. Sen. Loren Legarda said Santiago was a remarkable lady who continued to serve the country despite her medical condition. The Philippine flag was flown at half-staff at the Senate to pay respect to Santiago. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez led Congress in remembering one of its most colorful members. Pimentel said Santiago was the “best president our nation never had” and whose words and actions had an impact, not only in the halls of Congress, but in the international arena. “Her example will inspire not only many more patriotic Filipino women to go into public ser-
vice but countless more of our young who have looked up to her as our moral compass,” Pimentel added. Sen. Francis Pangilinan, who was a student of Santiago like Pimentel, said the Senate was blessed to have had her, “providing both excitement and education on law, vocabulary and humor. She will be missed.” Part of history Former Senate president Juan Ponce Enrile and Sen. Panfilo Lacson –both of whom had bitter quarrels with Santiago when they were together in the Senate – only had kind words for her. “We may not have been the best of friends but we were colleagues. But she will always be remembered as a passionate, articulate and a certified and renowned constitutionalist,” Lacson told reporters. Enrile, who Santiago once called a “hypersexualized serial womanizer” and the “mastermind of plunder,” expressed sadness over the passing of his late goddaughter and stressed that he did not have any grudge against anyone. “Forget that (quarrels). It’s part of history. Let it go,” he said, noting that he would say silent prayers for her. (With reports from Jess Diaz, Christina Mendez)
BOTTLED ART. Artists paint on huge bottles which will be displayed during the Venice Grand Canals Wine Festival to be held from October 1 to 9 this year. ManilaTimes.net photo by Bob Dungo Jr.
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OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 30-OCtObER 6, 2016
D ateline PhiliPPines Chinese Zhao: Sun rises PNP chief: Extension of drug
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‘beautifully’ on China-PH ties war due to lack of rehab centers by Michael Joe
Delizo
Manilatimes.net
RELATIONS between China and the Philippines are improving “beautifully” under President Rodrigo Duterte, Beijing’s envoy said as Duterte warms to China and Russia following US criticism of his bloody war on illegal drugs. Ambassador Zhao Jianhua offered effusive praise for Duterte in a speech at the embassy reception for the 67th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China late Tuesday, Sept. 27, saying Beijing “firmly supports” his anti-drugs campaign that has prompted Western condemnation of alleged extrajudicial killings. Duterte has rejected the criticism, including by long-time treaty ally the United States, and said he would seek closer economic ties with China and Russia. “The clouds are fading away. The sun is rising over the horizon and will shine beautifully on the new chapter of bilateral relations,” Zhao said according to a copy of the speech released by the Chinese embassy
Wednesday, Sept. 28. Zhao said Manila and Beijing had been engaging in “friendly interactions” since Duterte took office nearly three months ago. This was in stark contrast to fraught ties under Duterte’s predecessor Benigno Aquino III, whose government lodged a case at an international tribunal in 2013 seeking to nullify Beijing’s territorial claims over most of the South China Sea. In July, the tribunal rejected most of China’s claims as well as its extensive island-building in disputed waters. Duterte has however stressed he would not risk war by enforcing the ruling, preferring quiet diplomacy to persuade China to abide by the verdict. Duterte has responded with abusive comments against critics of his war on crime. In his latest remarks late Tuesday, he accused the US of “manipulating” the peso, which hit a seven-year low to the dollar on Monday, and dared investors concerned about his crime war to leave the Philippines. Many market analysts said the market was spooked by the
breakdown in the rule of law after Duterte’s anti-drug crackdown left more than 3,700 people dead. Rights groups claim some of them had been summarily executed. Zhao said Beijing would provide assistance to Manila and cooperate with the Duterte administration to jointly implement a “bilateral plan of action” to crack down on illegal drugs. Duterte had urged Beijing “to control their people and increase their focus on criminals” because the bulk of illegal drugs in the Philippines were allegedly sourced from China. “Illegal drugs are the enemy of all mankind,” Zhao said. “The Chinese side fully understands and firmly supports the Duterte administration’s policy that prioritizes the fight against drug crimes.” He did not elaborate on the bilateral plan against drugs. Zhao said China was “a staunch force in the international campaign against drug crimes” and was of the belief that “it is the shared responsibility of all countries to fight against drugrelated crimes.”
Robredo: Showing video will contribute nothing to Bilibid drug probe MANILA - Vice President Leni Robredo on Thursday, Sept. 29 said she is concerned at reports that the House Justice committee may show a video allegedly showing Sen. Leila de Lima “in an intimate act.” “As a former legislator, I fail to see how this will contribute to a substantial discussion of the issues being taken up,” Robredo, former Camarines Sur representative said in a statement to the media. “As a lawyer, I believe that this act may be in violation of penal laws. And as a long-time advocate for human and women’s rights, I am profoundly disturbed by a proposal that amounts to the public shaming of a woman and the infliction of grave harm on her dignity as a human person,” she also said. She said that the illegal drug trade at the New Bilibid Prisons and the alleged involvement of De Lima and other former Department of Justice officials “has become a matter of great interest to the public, creating strong sentiments and generating passionate debate among our fellow Filipinos.” She said that this makes it critical for the House of Representatives “to keep the proceedings calm, sober, and objective as the investigation proceeds.” On Wednesday, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez said that he would allow the video to be shown to members of the pan-
Vice Pres. Leni Robredo
el — the past hearings have been televised and covered by media — in the interest of finding the truth. He said that the video could help establish whether De Lima had a relationship with Ronnie Dayan, her former driver and alleged bagman for drug money. De Lima has denied being in the video and has said it is part of an attempt to discredit her for being a critic of the administration’s war on drugs. Several members of the House, as well as President Rodrigo Duterte and Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, have said that they have seen the video. “It is my earnest hope that all of us in public service, including my former colleagues in the House, do our utmost to maintain a rational and respectful level of
Division (ID), the largest military unit in central Mindanao. Karon and Galvez both agreed to sustain, through joint domestic peace-building projects, the dividends of the Sept. 2, 1996 final peace agreement between the government and the MNLF. Karon, who was still in high school when he joined the MNLF in 1973, and Misuari, the iconic founder of the MNLF, are for most friends like “blood brothers” but differed somehow in their respective outlooks on the Mindanao peace process. Now 64, Karon, a blue-blooded ethnic Maguindanaon, is for inclusivity among all stakeholders to the process --- the Muslims, Christians and Lumad folks and all MILFled communities --- to hasten the resolution of the now four-decade Mindanao Moro issue. The police and the military have long been restive about Karon’s brotherly ties with Misuari, ap-
prehensive on how he and his more than 2,000 loyal followers in seaside towns in the adjoining SULTAN KUDARAT - The leadprovinces of Sultan Kudarat and er of the Moro National Liberation Maguindanao can demonstrate Front (MNLF) in mainland Mindsympathy anytime for the now anao closest to Nur Misuari and wanted, Sulu-based MNLF foundthe military agreed to cooperate in er. resolving domestic security probKaron told Galvez and officers of lems including Islamic militancy. the 1st Marine Brigade present in The consensus was reached by Tuesday’s peace dialogue he and the reclusive Datu Randy Karon, his men will never violate their who was Misuari’s regional natu1996 peace accord with Malacaral resources secretary when he ñang. was governor of the Autonomous He said while there were misRegion in Muslim Mindanao understandings on the bilateral (ARMM), and Major Gen. Carlito implementation of the truce, they Galvez Jr. during a meeting Tuesremained confident both sides can day in an MNLF-controlled area in come to terms and continue coopLebak town in Sultan Kudarat. erating in pushing the agreement Galvez had served as chairman forward. of the government’s ceasefire Karon said all that he wants committee that deals with a counnow is for his followers and nonterpart panel in the Moro Islamic Muslim settlers in their governLiberation Front (MILF) before his ment-recognized enclaves to enSept. 12, 2016 assumption as comjoy livelihood opportunities which mander of the Army’s 6th Infantry socio-economic interventions can help generate. The now 20-year peace agreement was forged by Misuari of a then still solidly monolithic MNLF and President Fidel Ramos. It was was brokered by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, a bloc of more than 50 Islamic states, including petroleum-exporting countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Key followers of Karon said, at the sideline of their meeting with Galvez and Marine officers assigned in the neighboring seaside Lebak, Kalamansig and Palimbang towns, they stood down and stayed in their villages during the deadly September 2013 siege in Zamboanga City by mutinous followers of Misuari. The uprising was related to Misuari’s rabid opposition to MalacaThe reclusive Datu Randy Karon of the Moro National Liberation Front and Major Gen. Carlito ñang’s separate peace overture Galvez Jr., commander of the the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, met on Tuesday in Lebak town with the MILF, which started only in Sultan Kudarat. Philstar.com photo by John Unson PAGE A7
Unson Philstar.com
“Just give me little extension of maybe another six months. I did not have any idea that there MANILA — The shortage of were hundreds of thousands rehabilitation centers has led already in the drug business,” to President Rodrigo Duterte Duterte said in a press conferto seek a six-month extension to his self-imposed deadline to end the country’s drug problem, Philippine National Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa said. “Dahil nga sa pagkukulang natin dito sa rehabilitation facilities, diyan yung handicap natin ngayon,” Dela Rosa said at a press briefing in Malacañang on Thursday, Sept. 29. According to Department of Health Assistant Secretary Elmer Punzalan, each province should ideally have at least one rehabilitation center but there are only four regional rehabilitation centers across the country. Punzalan also said that the cost of rehabilitating drug users is around P10,000 per patient per month. President Duterte, shocked by the extent of the drug problem in the country, has asked for six more months to put an end to the drug menace and criminality in the country. Philstar.com
Philippine National Police (PNP) Director
discourse, with the same pas- General Ronald Dela Rosa explains why the sion that we zealously pursue the need for additonal six months for the war truth,” Robredo, the Liberal Par- against drugs. ty member in the highest elective position, said. Earlier Thursday, Liberal Party senators Francis Pangilinan, Franklin Drilon and Bam Aquino also expressed opposition to showing the video. “Regardless of the authenticity of the alleged videos, viewing it is disrespectful to a sitting senator, to her person, and to the office she holds, and is violative of the law,” the senators, de Lima’s party mates, said in a joint statement. They said showing the video violates the Anti-Voyeurism Law, the Anti Wiretapping Law and the Revised Penal Code on Crimes against Honor. (Philstar.com)
MNLF leader, military agree to resolve Moro conflict by John
by Kristian Javier
ence in Davao City on Sept. 18. According to Dela Rosa, it will be the Local Government Units concerned who are in charge of helping the surrenderers and PAGE A7
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THE word on the street is that for the next six years, the Philippines will “cross the Rubicon” with the United States, an idiom which means to pass a point of no return. This was stated by no less than President Rodrigo Duterte to reporters on Monday, Sept. 26, wherein he recalled his previous meeting with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev at the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Laos earlier this month. He also revealed that the Philippines could enter possible economic alliances with Russia and China, countries he called that are on the “other side of the ideological barrier.” “We had a one-on-one meeting and I said, ‘I think I’m about to cross the Rubicon with the United States, at least for the six years [of my term]. I will need your help in everything – trade, commerce – and I will open up,” Duterte said. However, Duterte clarified that the Philippines has no plans to cuts its ties with the U.S. Asked to explain what he meant with his “cross the Rubicon” remark, Duterte pointed out an apparent loophole in the defense agreement by the two countries. “There is an RP-U.S. Pact that was in the ‘50s. It says that an attack on the Philippines would be an attack of the United States. But in the United
States Constitution, it says that before a President can declare war, with anybody in defense of an ally, he has to go to Congress for permission to go to war. That’s the problem. So if Congress will not give him that authority, what will happen to us?” Duterte said. For his part, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. who just came back from his visit to the U.S., said that the president was just expressing his desire to pursue an independent foreign policy. “He was saying that to dramatize what he feels are the areas that would need further strengthening insofar as our relationship with the U.S. is concerned,” Yasay said. For decades, the Philippines and the U.S. have maintained strong bilateral relations based on support for international security, joint strategic goals in the Asia Pacific, a mutual commitment to democratic values, and historical ties. Such immutable partnership has been strengthened for years by vibrant democracies that are committed to each other in strength and prosperity. The U.S. has always recognized the Philippines as an indispensable partner for upholding vital
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
American interests in the region. The people between the two countries have also shared a tradition of working together from countering extremism, to strengthening economic ties and international security, and to fighting poverty and
creating opportunities for prosperity and growth. Unless both countries commit to the same goals, this enduring partnership will jeopardize the mutual political, economic and strategic benefits they have for their people. (AJPress)
An overwhelming majority of Filipinos in America do not support Duterte’s efforts to become more independent from the US SUPPORTERS may have praised Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte for standing up against America in declaration that he is not a puppet of Uncle Sam and that his administration’s foreign policy is veering away from the United States. But as far as Fil-Ams are concerned, this is not a good idea. In the online viewer poll of The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America,” an overwhelming 92 percent of viewers who voted said they do not support Duterte’s efforts for the Philippines to become more independent from America. Only 8 percent believe Duterte is on the right track when he thinks the Philippines can do things on its own. They are encouraged by the belief that he is the first president who can truly assert the Philippines’ sovereignty as an independent nation This finding is understandable and even expected, considering the fact that these same viewers are kababayans who live and work in the United States, remitting their hard earned dollars to their family back in the Philippines, helping keep the Philippine economy afloat. Those who do not support Duterte’s policy believe the Philippines still needs the United States, especially in the light of the territorial dispute
against China’s “bullying” in the West Philippine Sea. The Fil-Am They also value all the help the Filipinos get from our long time Perspective ally especially during times of natural disaster, as well as the trade, investment and employment opportunities that kababayans back home enjoy as a result Gel santos-Relos of the Philippines’ diplomatic and economic relations with America. As ABS-CBN News reported, if Duterte loosens the Philippines’ ties with the U.S., the Philippines could stand to lose about $1.3 billion in foreign direct investments, more than $150 million in development aid, and about $8.3 billion in goods that the Philippines exports to America every year. Recent headlines, however, make more kababayans in the U.S. worry. As Duterte strengthens his stand to distance the Philippines from the U.S., he has been “warming up” to China and Russia. Duterte has clarified that while he is “not yet ready to really break ties with the U.S., he said he “will open up alliances with China.” ABS-CBN News further reported that Duterte
also said that the country may need Russia’s help if the Philippines distances itself from the United States. “I’ve been talking with PM Medvedev. One-on-one kami. Walang nakaalam noon. I said, ‘I think I am about to cross the Rubicon between me and the U.S., at least for the six years. I would need your help and everything — trade, commerce. I will open up,” the president said. On top of these concerns is the fear of some kababayans of how Duterte’s belief, or non-belief of God, may affect how he stirs the Philippines from democratic to communist principles. “What if there is no God?” was the question Duterte posed during the oath-taking ceremony of Malacañang Press Corps officials on Monday, Sept. 26, with reference to his bid to revive capital punishment in the Philippines. “Ang mga tao sa Pilipinas hindi na naniniwala sa batas because fear is not there,” Duterte said in a report by ABS-CBN News and other media. “Hindi tumalab yung death penalty noon kasi hindi in-impose. One, because of the Catholic
church. Second, the bleeding hearts, because only God can kill. Ang problema niyan, I ask you, what if there is no God?” Duterte said. ABS-CBN News also quoted the president questioning God’s presence when women and children are raped and killed. “So, where is now God when a one-year-old baby, an 18-month-old baby is taken from the mother’s arms, brought under a jeep and raped and killed. So where is God?” Duterte said. I can hear Duterte’s supporters contend that this should not be an issue because there should be separation of powers between the State and Church, and that Duterte’s philosophical question and position should be respected and not taken against him. WHAT DO YOU THINK? Do you support Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s policy of distancing the Philippines from the United States and building stronger ties with China and Russia? ***
Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos
No Fil-Am plot to oust Duterte IT all started with a radio interview on Commentary Manila radio station DZRH on September 19, 2016 when Pres. Duterte’s C o m m u n i c a t i o n s Rodel Rodis Secretary Martin Andanar announced the news that Filipino Americans in New York were planning a coup against Pres. Duterte in January of 2017. This is how Andanar said he learned the news: “I was just talking to somebody in New York now who is also a member of the Cabinet – I won’t mention his name. But he also heard of the Fil-Ams in New York who are planning. They are hatching a plan to oust the President by January 2017. There is this kind of report. “ Andanar added that he even asked this unnamed official if he has evidence to prove it or if this is another hearsay. “It’s really about the evidence that you have, isn’t it? (If there is) you let me know (because) it is the concern for the government and it should be a concern for the nation because it’s a destabilization talk,” Andanar said he told the official. Although Andanar never identified the source of his news, there were only two cabinet officials who were in New York in that time period - Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay, Jr. and Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella. Two days after Andanar’s news, Secretary Yasay addressed the issue when he spoke at a Town Hall meeting with the Filipino-American community at the Philippine Consulate in New York. “I do not know whether those reports are true, I deny having said those things and I am sure Sec. Ernie Abella would
not say those things,” he said. So it appears the question is not whether Yasay or Abella can provide any evidence of the plot to Andanar but whether Andanar has any evidence that “a member of the cabinet” actually provided him with information about such a plot. Or did Andanar just make it up as a joke? According to Wikipedia, Andanar is “a former Filipino television news anchor, radio commentator, podcaster, audio blogger, voice-over artist and comedian.” Unless reading a teleprompter as a former television anchor qualifies one as a journalist, it does not appear that Andanar has the credentials to even understand what hearsay means. The lack of any evidence of this “FilAm plot” did not stop Andanar from further inflaming the issue in subsequent press conferences. Two days after the DZRH radio interview, Andanar announced from Malacanang Palace that the administration has already identified the people behind the supposed plot of Filipino Americans. “We have names. We know who you are,” he said. “We are aware of this and we have names, I’ve received names but I’m not going to mention it because, you know, I was also a journalist and we might be charged with libel,” Andanar said in a press briefing. According to the news reports, Andanar declined to provide any clue on the identities of the people who are allegedly plotting Duterte’s ouster because he said he did not want to be sued for libel. He insisted, however, that the information was provided by “credible
sources.” The difference between Duterte’s Secretary of Communications Martin Andanar and Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda Josef Goebbels is that the latter never claimed to be a “former journalist.” Goebbels famously said “It is the absolute right of the State to supervise the formation of public opinion.” It was Goebbels’ boss who famously said: “If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed.” Andanar was undeterred by Yasay’s denial and persisted in his quest. “We have to confirm, we have to vet, but whatever they’re planning, just think twice because it is not lawful when you bring down a government. And rest assured that we will protect our president,” he said. Andanar has used unconfirmed hearsay reports about an imagined conspiracy to launch a witch hunt against Filipino Americans who are critical of the Duterte administration. He wants them to “think twice” about participating in any anti-Duterte demonstrations. It was intended to intimidate Duterte’s critics in the U.S. Perhaps Andanar did not imagine everything. I can confirm that there really were conversations by Filipino Americans in New York and in other parts of the U.S. about asking Pres. Duterte to resign. I know I am on Andanar’s black list because I participated in that teleconference. On September 8, 2016, Balitang America aired an interview with “Filipino American human rights lawyer” Ted Laguatan where he criticized Pres. Duterte for damaging the good relations of the Philippines with the US. “I’m sorry for him that he cannot con-
trol his mouth and his brain because it gives us a bad image as a nation. It is unfitting because he is seen speaking like that against the world, against the leader of the United States, against Filipino interest. There’s only one solution. He should resign,” he said. The following week, on September 13, the U.S. Pinoys for Good Governance (USP4GG) led by Loida NicolasLewis from New York held a national teleconference to discuss Laguatan’s call for Duterte to resign. While there was support for the sentiment, there was also concern that it was not yet time for it and such a call would only be used by Duterte supporters to attack his critics. There was also a suggestion for US Pinoys to write a letter to Pres. Duterte to ask him to tone down his language and his attacks on the US, an ally supporting the Philippines claim to the West Philippine Sea. In the end, US Pinoys for Good Governance voted unanimously to support a resolution to buy a jet ski and donate it to Pres. Duterte to help him fulfil his campaign pledge to jet ski to the Scarborough Shoal to plant a Philippine flag on it in defiance of China’s efforts to transform it to an island fortress. So it is quite possible that someone heard about this US Pinoys’ teleconference and about discussions calling for Duterte to resign and word of it reached this unnamed cabinet official in New York who may have passed it on to Andanar. As anyone familiar with the perils of how a “broken telephone” works, the retelling of the conversion misstated the original call for Duterte to resign, to a call to impeach him, all the way down to a call to supporting a coup to oust him. The remaining mystery is the date.
According to Andanar, the Fil Am conspirators are planning to stage their coup in January of 2017. As one who participated in that September 13 teleconference, I can confirm that no one suggested a specific date for Pres. Duterte to resign. But I think I know the source of the date Andanar is referring to. We should remember that in his campaign speeches, candidate Duterte repeatedly promised to resign if he is not able to solve the problems of crime and drugs in his first six months in office. Duterte said on January 20, 2016: “I will not ask for a (full) term…I ask for three to six months and I will finish them,” said Duterte, referring to criminals, drug lords, and corrupt public officials, during a symposium in Manila at the De La Salle University. Speaking on behalf of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, on September 19, 2016, Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said of Duterte’s promise:“In the campaign, he categorically said that the drug problem would be solved in six months or he would step down. But of course he is not a man of one word. His words cannot be trusted and he gives a lot of excuses. He made the people believe.” Duterte assumed the presidency on June 30, 2016. Duterte’s self-imposed six month term will expire on December 30, 2016. So on January 1, 2017, Duterte will resign. This is not according to the Fil-Am conspirators, as Andanar alleges. This is according to Pres. Duterte himself. Mystery solved. (Send comments to Rodel50@gmail. com or mail them to the Law Offices of Rodel Rodis at 2429 Ocean Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94127 or call 415.334.7800).
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Dateline PhiliPPines
OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 30-OCtObER 6, 2016
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UN exec accepts invitation to probe summary killings in PH by Dana
SioSon AJPress
A UNITED Nations (UN) rapporteur on Monday, September 26, expressed her intention to come and investigate the alleged summary killings in the Philippines. President Rodrigo Duterte last week extended an invitation to his international critics from the UN and the European Union (EU) to come and probe the killings that have occurred so far during his administration’s campaign against illegal drugs. Although the Philippine government has yet to issue a formal invitation, Agnes Callamard, UN rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, told Agence France-Presse that she would solicit one. “I welcome the reports recentGUN GALORE. President Rodrigo Duterte looks at firearms seized by the police which were displayed by the Police Regional Office 12 when he visited General Santos City . ManilaTImes.net photo ly (conveyed) through the media that the president and government of the Philippines will invite a UN mission to investigate the alleged extrajudicial executions,” Callamard said. PAGE A5 According to the Department of establishing their own rehaHowever, she added that she providing rehabilitation centers. bilitation centers, Dela Rosa of Health, P3 billion has been He also added that LGUs that said. set aside for drug rehabilitation have not yet established their “Hindi na sila naghihintay sa in the proposed national budget own rehabilitation centers, ba- national government na mag- for 2017. rangay chairpersons can moni- provide pa ng malakihang rehab The government’s drive MANILA – They’ve been traintor the surrenderers in their centers,” he said. against drugs has resulted barangays twice a day to make “All over the Philippines, in 720,000 surrenderers and ing together for more than a sure they are no longer using il- marami na tayong nakita na mga 15,000 arrests. The PNP’s target decade already, but Manny Paclegal drugs. probinsya at munisipyo at siyu- is to reach 1.8 million, which in- quiao still never fails to amaze his However, several provincial, dad na nag-sariling inisyatibo cludes those who surrender, are longtime trainer Freddie Roach. This time, it is Pacquiao’s city and municipal governments nila, gumawa ng sariling rehab arrested, or are otherwise “neupunching power that has again have already taken the initiative centers,” he added. tralized.” caught the attention of Roach, who just arrived in the country to supervise the Filipino icon’s training for his November 5 fight against Jessie Vargas. PAGE A5 Galvez said as a peace activ- and my experience taught me that Speaking to reporters late Tuesas small faction that splintered ist, he will first exhaust all diplo- peace is best achieved through day at the Elorde Boxing Gym from the MNLF in the early 1980s. matic means of resolving security diplomacy and understanding,” near SM Mall of Asia where PacThe MILF, engaged in current constraints in areas under 6th ID’s Galvez told Karon and his relatives quiao holds his workouts, Roach peace talks with Malacañang since jurisdiction before resorting, “only during their dialogue. said that his eyes lit up when he January 1997, is now the country’s as last option,” to tactical apTheir diplomatic engagement saw his ward get to work. largest Moro revolutionary group. proaches in addressing peace and Tuesday, the first ever since Misu“I like what I see. He’s very Karon said he and his followers order issues. ari went into hiding after the 2013 inspired and aggressive. But supported the bid for the presidenThe division covers central Zamboanga mutiny, was brokered what really surprised me was his cy of the now President Rodrigo Mindanao’s adjoining Maguin- by Karon’s two relatives, Pombaen punching power. I can feel it,” Duterte during the May 9 elections danao, Sultan Kudarat, North Karon Kader, who is ARMM’s as- the multi-awarded cornerman owing to his being a native of Min- Cotabato and Lanao del Sur prov- sistant social welfare secretary, said in a report by Aquiles Zonio danao and his deep understanding inces, where the MILF has dozens and Lt. Col. Markton Abo. of PhilBoxing.com. of the cultures and the Islamic reli- of guerilla camps now dubbed as Abo is the civil-military relaRoach flew into the country gion of the Moro people and their “peace zones,” protected by an in- tions assistant of Galvez. He is with American light welterweight quest for self-governance. terim ceasefire agreement crafted the first Moro officer to become Jose Carlos Ramirez, who will “We are confident the Duterte by government and rebel negotia- chief of 6th ID’s civil-military rela- serve as one of Pacquiao’s sparadministration can win the much- tors in Cagayan de Oro City in July tions unit, a sensitive frontline post ring partners. coveted peace in this part of the 1997. never entrusted to a Muslim since Ramirez, for his part, shrugged country, the peace we have all “I was once wounded in combat the division was established in the off the effects of a long flight been wishing for,” Karon said. and even became a rebel-soldier 1970s. from Los Angeles to Manila and
PNP chief: Extension of drug war due...
was seeking security guarantees for people she planned to speak with. “The date and scope of the fact-finding mission will be discussed and negotiated with the government, along with essential guarantees,” she said. Callamard noted that those would include “my freedom of movement and freedom of inquiry, and the assurance that those who cooperate with me will not be the object of retaliation, such as intimidation, threats, harassment or punishment.” According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), over 3,300 deaths linked to the administration’s “war on drugs” have been recorded from July 1 to the third week of September. The list included both deaths from legitimate police operations and vigilante-style killings. International bodies such as UN, EU, and the United States have expressed condemnation of the killings. Duterte, however, insisted on continuing the government’s campaign against illegal drugs,
stressing that his international critics should not meddle with the country’s national affairs. Open investigation During the oath-taking of Malacañang Press Corps officials on Monday, Duterte admitted that there were indeed extrajudicial killings in the country. However, he stressed that those incidents were not sanctioned by the government. “My government is not into the business of making mummies,” the president pointed out, referring to the way dumped bodies were wrapped in packaging tapes. He also proposed an “open” and “no-holds-barred” investigation. “I’m staking my life, my honor, the presidency. I have no illusions here,” Duterte said. “They shouldn’t threaten me on extrajudicial killings, or else I will also demand that the United States of America and EU be investigated alongside with me. Because they have committed far more injustice and have done horrific things.”
Pacquiao’s punching power still surprises Roach
MNLF leader, military agree to resolve Moro conflict
Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach doing mitt work in this file photo.
immediately went to work with Pacquiao. “I’m still suffering from a jetlag. But that was not an excuse. I came here to help Manny Pacquiao prepare for his fight against Vargas,” Ramirez, a former Olympian who represented the US in the 2012 London Olympics, said in the same report. Pacquiao will fight for the WBO welterweight title currently held
by Vargas, who at 27 years old is 10 years Pacquiao’s junior. Roach, however, said age hasn’t slowed down Pacquiao, who impressed in his last fight against Timothy Bradley last April. “He’s (Pacquiao) getting older but he’s coming back to the game even stronger than before. And I like it,” said Roach. (Philstar. com)
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Filipino designers showcased at one of fashion’s biggest events By MoMar
G. Visaya / AJPress
Just like that, New York City Fashion Week is over. Along with it, the many side events, performances and shows that celebrate the city as one of the world’s top fashion destinations. And for every aspiring and emerging designer, there is that dream to stage a show during NYFW. Three Filipino designers from a diverse background found themselves in New York last week to celebrate their collections and showcase to the world their talent. Here are their stories. Calado: From Batangas to New York Aloysius, an accessible Filipino luxury brand, showcased the ‘calado’ lace through a runway presentation at the Philippine Consulate General in time for the recently-concluded New York Fashion Week. Calado is the almost-lost art of hand embroidery technique that is centuries-old and practiced usually in rural towns. The fabric of choice is the pina or the delicate hand-woven pineapple fiber. The designer behind Aloysius, Joseph Montelibano, got his inspiration for his S/S 2017 collection by the romanticized era of the country’s national hero, Jose Rizal. The 20-piece collection highlighted artisanal pieces of separates, cocktail dresses and ethereal evening and wedding gowns. With timeless silhouettes and rich yet refined embellishments, the Aloysius collection can best be described as simple and elegant. It is in the simplicity and cleanliness of the designs that get highlighted with fabric like pina. “I’m so happy and relieved,” Joseph exclaimed moments after the show. “I’m so grateful to everyone that showed up and I am just so overwhelmed right now.” With a background in fabric, Joseph said he makes sure that he gets to have fun with it without sacrificing the tradition and the heritage. From the beadwork to the hand embroidery to making sure that the different characters of the pina fabric are shown – Joseph went into the minutest details as he prepared for the collection. “It’s a great fabric but it is sad that the calado embroidery is dying so this is the perfect moment for me to do this,” Joseph told the Asian Journal. Calado lace embroidery is a dying art form in the native
heritage town of Taal, Batangas in the Philippines. Aloysius has taken the initiative to revive and reinvigorate it by raising funds to include calado hand embroidery elective subjects in public schools nationwide and produce workshops for private sectors worldwide. It was happenstance. Joseph was looking for a material that he could sink his teeth into and someone suggested that he look at Taal, Batangas. “Last year, I did Tinalak. This year, I wanted to do something different. I wanted it to be appealing and streamlined like New Yorkers. So I went to Taal and immersed with the hand embroiderers and the inspiration and artistic vision just flowed,” he shared. “My vision about Dr. Jose Rizal and the calado embroidery just clicked and I said, that’s what I was going to do.” The same collection will also be showcased at the upcoming International Bridal Show at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. Asked about his dream for this collection, the designer paused and gave a thoughtful remark. “I wish that other designers around the world would pick this up and consider this fabric. That is the whole thrust of this collection. It’s not just about me as a designer,” he said. Ninja: Born in Vienna, now London-based Folks, meet 31-year-old Ninja (pronounced in Vienna as Nina) Evangelista, an emerging Filipina accessories designer in London. Born to Filipino parents in Vienna, Ninja grew up in Austria but for the past six years, she has been calling London home. A passionate traveller, Ninja gets her inspiration from the places she visits and people she meets along the way. She is also inspired by art and architecture, along with the every day scenery she gets to experience in every country she gets to visit. Ninja has designed different bags for ladies, some they can use during the day and some during the evening. Her bags she said are the perfect accompaniment to every woman, whether she is out working or on a date or travelling the world. “It is a huge honor for us to be invited here. They only asked twelve emerging designers from all over the world to showcase here,” Ninja said. “New York is huge and I’ve always been inspired by the city’s people, culture and art, everything.” “New York women are always fashionable so I’d like them to take a look at our pieces and hopefully, something catches their eye,” she remarked. Ninja’s brand Dela Eva is now one year old. Dela is from her mother’s last name Dela Cruz and Eva is from her father’s last name Evangelista. Both her parents come from the province of Bulacan and they moved to Austria more than 30 years ago. They now call New Jersey home. Working at an airline afforded her to travel the world at such a
young age and once she felt she has gained enough experience, she decided to focus on what she really wanted: to become a designer. “Somehow I had always known that I’d be in fashion, I didn’t know then how but through the years, the dream began to take shape,” she said. Ninja’s bags can be considered as conversation pieces, and to say that her bags are not ordinary would be an understatement. Each one of her bags is unique in terms of design and there’s always a special detail added to it. Like the Pursa line with the bucket-bags’ unique opening and shape, or the handbags with loops on their handles. In fact, it has become a signature Dela Eva look – that combination of handbag or any of her accessories with an element of women’s wear. She has a belt that can be worn and it would like there is an attached flowing skirt, or a veil, similar to what Filipino women wear when they go to church decades ago. And since inspiration comes wherever she is, Ninja makes sure that she has her sketchbook ready. She admits she already has the design in her head and sometimes it’s just a matter of putting those ideas into paper. “I am proud to say that we are totally hand-made in the United Kingdom and Italy,” Ninja said. “We work with highly-trained artisans in Milano and London, using materials from Paris, Vienna, Milan and I’m trying to get some materials from the Philippines as well like silk and lace.” Kenneth Barlis: From Zamboanga to USA The Art Hearts Fashion show at the recently concluded New York Fashion Week has become a leading platform for designers and artists to showcase their collections in a contemporary fashion week setting. This year, Kenneth Barlis, a 27-year-old Filipino-American designer from San Diego made his debut in New York. “Parang nangangapa pa ako in the beginning because I haven’t done anything in New York yet pero I just treated it like my other shows. It was a great experience. Every designer wants to showcase at New York Fashion Week,” Barlis said. Barlis brought his collection, which he said had a fairy tale base. It’s a little like his own story and how he got his designs on the runway. He said that in every show, he wants to tell a story. That night, it was his story, his family’s story, that he wanted to share. “There’s a lot of colors, textures and patterns in my collections,” he said, sharing that as a Biology major in college, he was fascinated by the shapes and designs of things like bacteria. As a designer, he successfully translates these abstractions into eye-catching and visually appealing designs. While he used to do a lot of “unwearable” pieces or what he
Joseph Aloysius Montelibano
Joseph Montelibano focused his recent collection on the piña fabric with calado lace embroidery.
AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya
Ninja Evangelista
jokingly called “couture-couturean” Kenneth decided to focus this collection on wearable pieces. By translating the couture into a wearable version, Kenneth said he prioritized the texture, details and cuts as he made sure girls and women can wear what he designed. “Being a young designer, I am taking that risk of telling my story to the people and showing my uniqueness as a Filipino,” he shared. Growing up in Mindanao, particularly in Zamboanga where there is a lot of Muslim influence, Kenneth grew up looking at bold colors and patterns. He moved to the United States when he was 14 years old. “Every season for me brings lessons and every show is different. What taught me to go the next level is to just continue doing what I do but learning in a way how to adjust to the audience and make my pieces more relatable to them,” Kenneth said. Kenneth’s S/S 2017 40-piece
collection is a family affair for him since his family came out to support him all throughout the collection – from concept to execution, all of which took almost four months. The people behind Art Hearts Fashion have been inviting Kenneth for the past two to three years to join them and back then, he felt that he wasn’t ready yet. “I didn’t want to say yes immediately even if I thought I wasn’t ready. The opportunity was there but I didn’t want to ruin it. Nagpahinog muna ako a little bit to develop myself more as a designer,” he shared. “This year, I knew I was ready.”
Kenneth Barlis
AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya
Photos courtesy of Kenneth Barlis
Max Eigenmann reveals: Jake Ejercito is the father of Andi’s daughter WHAT had been a persistent rumor has finally been confirmed. Jake Ejercito is in indeed the real father of Andi Eigenmann’s daughter Ellie. Actress Max Eigenmann, halfsister of Andi, blurted out the secret on Thursday in an episode of the radio program “Good Times With Mo.” During the podcast with disc jockey Mo Twister, Max was asked to comment about the recent spat between her half-sister and the son of former president Joseph Estrada on Twitter. “it doesn’t bother me, whatever. They’re always like that,” Max said. “You know he (Jake) is the father of my niece, right?” Mo clarified with a follow-up question, “Yeah, not biological, right? But still, father figure.” “No, he is. They did a (DNA) test... Yeah, he’s the dad,” Max replied. “They’re co-parenting. That’s
september 30-october 6, 2016 www.asianjournal.com
No special someone for Pia Wurtzbach as she turns 27 by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach took a little time off from her queenly duties in New York City to celebrate her birthday with family and friends here in the Philippines. Wurtzbach returned to Manila on september 24 and was feted in several gatherings for her 27th birthday. The first was a welcome Actress Andi Eigenmann and her daughter Ellie. and surprise party at the Le Jardin in the same month, Kapamilya why he always posts photos of my in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig actor Albie Casiño said he felt niece,” she added. organized by her closest friends, relieved after an alleged DNA test Just last month, the ex-couple led by Eat Bulaga host Pauleen revealed that he’s not the father of had a heated Twitter exchange Luna-sotto, Niña Almoro, Harley Andi’s daughter Ellie. when Jake insinuated that Andi Tan, Franchesca Que, Anne it was in 2011 when Andi got is using him to promote her Margaret Luna, and Mara isabel pregnant. she pointed at exupcoming film “Camp sawi,” a movie sotto. boyfriend Albie as the father of her about girls trying to mend their Wearing a stunning red gown child. (Philstar.com) broken hearts in a camp. and elegant bun hairdo, she posted a picture of her lovely face when she stepped into the restaurant with the caption, “That moment your friends surprise you and they up; Taynara Gargantini of Brazil catch your reaction on camera! i was Third Runner-up; Cynthia have the best friends in the world! Lizeth Duque Garza of Mexico Thank you.” was Fourth Runner-Up; and Rita Besides this mini-reunionsilvestre of Panama was Fifth cum-birthday party with friends, Runner-Up. Wurtzbach also spent time with Rounding up the Top 10 were her fan club, called the “Pianatics,” the delegates from Colombia, who had supported her since her Dominican Republic, south Africa Binibining Pilipinas days. and Thailand. “spent the birthday with the Miss Philippines was also best and most loyal supporters in awarded Most Beautiful Face in the world! They’ve been cheering the contest, which was originally me on since the first day i stepped named Miss American Continent on the Binibini stage! And just like until it opened its borders to how i celebrated my birthday last beauties from around the globe Miss Philippines Jeslyn Santos bested 28 year, were reunited again! Thank in 2012. other candidates from five continents to win you, Pianatics! i love you sooo Other special awards went to much!” she said online for this one. Mexico as Miss Photogenic, China Miss United Continents 2016 The most beautiful woman in Pageant history as Miss Congeniality, Dominican Miss United Continents began the world ended her special night Republic as Miss Punctuality and india for Best in National Costume. in 2006, and is based in Guayaquil, with a with a grand dinner party at the Naxional south American Ecuador. in 2015, the Philippines also restaurant in Bonifacio Global City, According to its internet made it Top 10 in the person of which saw her fellow Bb. Pilipinas profile, the pageant is organized Anabel Christine Gonzales Tia. queens. by María del Carmen de Aguayo, On social media, beauty Love life and “was created considering that pageant aficionados cannot help Earlier this year, Wurtzbach there was a space in the world but comment that santos’ win in confirmed that she was indeed of beauty pageants that had Ecuador was a reversal of Miss dating New York’s “Hottest Doctor not been organized globally in Ecuador Angela Bonilla’s win in Alive” Mikhail Varshavski. However, Ecuador.” the Miss Global Beauty Pageant the romance seemed to fizzle out The very first winner of in Manila 12 hours earlier. The a few months later with lesser the title was Mía Taveras from Philippine candidate, Camille sightings of the pair in the Big Dominican Republic. Hirro, was first runner-up.
Jeslyn Santos home from Miss United Continents win by arlo CustodIo ManilaTimes.net
TWENTY-three-year-old Jeslyn santos of the Philippines was crowned Miss United Continents 2016 in Guayaquil, Ecuador on saturday (sunday morning in Manila) making the lass from Bulacan the first Asian to win the title. she arrived in Manila on Tuesday, sept. 27. Ecstatically, she posted on Facebook, “Yey!!! im finally home… Salamat Pilipinas! This is all for you! Puso at laban.” There are no immediate plans yet for a ticker parade for the new queen, but Filipinos are happy that a compatriot has set the tone once again for what is there ahead in beauty pageantry. The 5’8”-tall volleyball player bested 28 other candidates from around the world. she delivered her speech in spanish. Her winning crown was designed by Jewelry Designer, Christian Quintero, based on the concept of the five continents. First Runner-Up or Virreina/ Vice Queen was Mette Riis sorensen of Denmark. Lopamudra Raut of india was second Runner-
PLAY NOW TO DECEMBER 18
Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach
Apple as before. Rumors that they had indeed called it quits surfaced in May after the beauty queen posted curiously posted a photo with the caption, “Boy, i’m a prize not a catch.” she deleted it shortly after she realized the stir the post caused, immediately tweeting, “Kalma lang po. Okay naman ang lahat. Magandang umaga!” (Please calm down. Everything is okay. Good morning!) Nevertheless, Wurtzbach’s last reported date with Varshavski was in late April when they spent a romantic evening around New York aboard a helicopter. With hardly any talk about Varshavski, the beauty queen’s love life suddenly became a hot topic again, two days before she flew home for her birthday. This was after Wurtzbach posted a photo with handsome swiss-Filipino F1 racer Marlon stockinger. she wrote “Marloner” to accompany their photo. stockinger is currently based in Zurich, switzerland. Focused on work On september 28, the birthday girl posted two successive tweets expressing her sentiments over all the buzz regarding her love life. she felt saddened by the fact that it was gaining more attention than the advocacy to which she has dedicated her reign as Miss Universe. she posted, “i wonder why the media won’t feature our recent trip to UNiCEF instea;” followed by a
second tweet that said, “Which is sad because i’ve done a lot but it doesn’t seem to get more media coverage.” On Tuesday, sept. 27, Wurtzbach—together with the country’s bet to 2016’s Miss Universe pageant, Bb. Pilipinas Maxine Medina—spent the day with a team from UNiCEF to talk about how they can work together in furthering her chosen advocacy in HiV/AiDs awareness. The day, september 27 marked the celebration of National Gay Men’s HiV/AiDs Awareness Day, which the beauty queen also pointed out in her post. Choosing to focus on her work, Wurtzbach fulfilled the rest of her commitments during her quick trip to Manila, which also included a surprise appearance at a PLDT event in shangri-La at The Fort. Led by the telco’s top executives Wurtzbach was reintroduced as the face of PLDT Home’s integrated suite of innovative, reliable and family-friendly internet products and services, collectively known as smart Home. A very quick appearance, the media had not opportunity to ask Wurtzbach after her heart’s affairs, nor did she have the chance to give updates on her advocacy. Putting two and two together, it seems that Miss Universe 2015 simply wants to put the message across that there is no special someone for her as she turns 27 and that she is completely focused on work.
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Brillante Mendoza: ‘No competition between Lav and I’ Director addresses controversy of ‘Ma’ Rosa’ running for Oscar Best Foreign Film instead of ‘Humayo’ by Christina alpad ManilaTimes.net
WheN people think of awardwinning independent films, the names Brillante Mendoza and Lav Diaz instantly come to mind. Arguably, it is the two decorated directors who have placed the Pearl of the Orient on the map of modern filmmaking, what with their headline hogging international film festival wins. Diaz—born Lavrente Indico Diaz—started making films in 1998 with “Serafin Geronimo: Kriminal ng Barrio Concepcion” (“The Criminal of Barrio Concepcion”). Two years and two movies later, he started gaining notice in the international circuit with “Batang West Side” (“West Side Kid”), which won Best Picture at the Singapore International Film Festival, as well awards at the Independent Film Festival of Brussels, among others. Since then, the director now known for his lengthy films—the longest of which runs at 11 hours—further made the award winning films “Norte, hangganan ng Kasaysayan” (“Norte, the end of history”), which was included in the Un Certain Regard section of the 2013 Cannes Film Festival; and “Mula sa Kung Ano ang Noon” (“From What Is Before”), winner of the Golden Leopard at the 2014 Locarno International Film Festival. This year too is shaping up to be Diaz’s most triumphant one, having directed “hele Sa hiwagang
Brillante Mendoza and Lav Diaz—two of the most decorated Filipino directors
hapis” (“A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery”), now the winner of the Silver Bear Alfred Bauer Prize at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival, and the country’s latest pride, “Ang Babaeng humayo” (“The Woman Who Left”), which bagged the highly-regarded Golden Lion award at the 73rd Venice International Film Festival. Meanwhile, Mendoza—a University of Santo Tomas Advertising Arts graduate—started in the business as a production designer for film and television advertisements until finally conquering the director’s chair at 45-years old for the 2005 film “Masahista” (“The Masseur”). his debut on the big screen was an instant hit among critics, having won the Interfaith Award at the Brisbane International Fest in Australia and the Golden Leopard for Video at the Locarno International Film Festival in Switzerland, among the handful awards and
A touching scene from Mendoza’s ‘Pagpupugay’
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nominations. From then on, there was no stopping the brilliant Brillante Mendoza. he produced one sociallyrelevant film after another, all with his trademark use of handheld cameras and realistic approach in filmmaking. But perhaps one of his biggest contributions, if not the biggest, to the local industry is his win at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Mendoza was the first Filipino director to bring home the coveted Best Director Award (Prix de la mise en scène) in 2009 for the drama film Kinatay. he made history again just this May for “Ma’Rosa,” when his muse Jacylyn Jose won Best Actress for the equally coveted Palme d’Or (Gold Leaf) Award at the 69th Cannes Film Festival—another first in Philippine movie history. Now, the same film has the chance to make another first for the country: an Academy Award for the Best Foreign Language Film in the United States. Rivalry rumors having won numerous international awards between them, there is no escaping a Mendoza vs. Diaz scenario. Lately especially, the two directors have been pitted against each other by rumor mongers who have taken sides on “Ma’Rosa” and “humayo” for the Academy Awards. There are those who say that while “Ma’ Rosa” was a triumph at
Alex Gonzaga & Joseph Marco: Almost but not quite by riCky lo
have to work as a team. Alex: Joseph lets me be BACK then when they starred whatever! he finds me funny in “Pure Love,” the Kapamilya and he appreciates my personadaptation of the Koreanovela, ality so I’m comfortable working Alex Gonzaga and Joseph Marco with him. almost became lovers, a possibilThere was chemistry beity rudely interrupted when the tween you (in “Pure Love”) that teleserye ended. Will the flame could have developed into a be rekindled now that they are real-life romance. What hapback together in “My Rebound pened? Were both of you “comGirl” of Regal Films, their first big mitted” to somebody else? movie break? Joseph: We both think that It was the Regal motherit wasn’t the right time just yet daughter tandem of Mother Lily so instead, we chose to get Monteverde and Roselle who re- to know each other more as membered what they called “the friends. TV magic” of Alex and Joseph Alex: No. We were just and deemed it high time they focused on other aspects of life. teamed up in a movie. he wasn’t a priority at that time. Directed by emmanuel de la Do you find “ideal girl/ideal Cruz (“Slumber Party,” “Kailanboy” qualities in each other? gan Kita” and “Sarung Banggi”), Joseph: Yes! She loves her “My Rebound Girl” features Alex family, fears and loves God, has in the titular role as a girl who a very kind heart and is humble, keeps bouncing back after every too. We get along very well. fall (in love), until she crosses Alex: Yes! Jowsy (that’s paths with Joseph’s character. how I call him) is very mysterihere are Alex and Joseph in ous, caring and sweet to me, separate Conversations: much more so I think if I am his You first worked together girlfriend. on the ABS-CBN show “Pure Have you ever had any “reLove.” What have you learned bound” experience in real life? from and about each other Joseph: None. that helped your work in “My Alex: Yes, in college. I knew Rebound Girl”? I was a “rebound” and I even told Joseph: I’ve learned that for the guy I could help him court a love team to work, you really his ex back. Philstar.com
What is in your roles that you identify with? Joseph: Rich, my character, is a bit serious about his life and when it comes to love, he has no reservations. I think those are the two qualities that I can identify with. Alex: Rocky, my character, is easily convinced that men will not hurt her. I am somewhat like that. Tell us interesting sidelights on the set. Joseph: Cathy (Alex’s first name is Catherine) and I love to eat together and annoy each other. We enjoy each other’s company. Alex: We were in Benguet. We were stepping on fresh coffee beans. Maybe there was a higad (caterpillar) because our feet became super itchy, so we had to be rushed to a hospital. How many times have you fallen in (and out of) love? How did you manage to move on? Joseph: I’ve fallen in love twice. I managed to move on by keeping myself busy. And also by moving forward without looking back. Alex: Probably twice and I have written two books to finally close those chapters in my life. Continued on Page 6
Alex Gonzaga: I have fallen in (and out of) love probably twice and I have written two books to close those chapters in my life., Joseph Marco:
Continued on Page 5 I’ve fallen in love twice. I managed to move on by keeping myself busy. And also, by moving forward without looking back.
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Heart Evangelista: ‘No pressure from Chiz for a baby’ room there that will be for our baby,” she confirmed. That morning, however, AS multi-hyphenate Heart according to evangelista, she evangelista renewed her contract asked her husband as it hit her, with GMA network at the “What if GMA gives me a new beginning of the week, she was soap after I renew my contract unable to avoid questions as to today?” when she and husband Senator Thankfully, the “very mature” chiz escudero plan to have a baby. senator apparently took the Since marrying the 46-yearpossibility calmly, and simply said, old legislator in February 2015, “Then you work on your soap.” evangelista, 35, has gone full “He’s just so uncomplicated throttle in establishing a second that way, but I also know he’s career as Love Marie ongpauco, eager to start our family, so I’ll the painter, with three sold-out just have to say at this point, one-woman shows to date, and whichever comes first. Maybe in a number of highly successful January or February, a baby or a artistic collaborations in fashion soap, and we’ll take it from there.” and makeup. Through all these, evangelista went on to say she also managed to keep up her that much as she seems more showbiz career as “Philippine TV’s focused on her painting these Sweetheart” and completed two days, she has come to value her prime time series in the past year showbiz career all the more for a and a half via “Beautiful Strangers”, couple of reasons. co-starring Lovi Poe), and the The first is based on recently concluded Juan Happy practicality since working on Love Story, with Dennis Trillo. a prime time series for a full “We want to have a baby,” television season allows her to she said during an intimate devote her time to painting for roundtable with entertainment the rest of the year financially. editors on September 19, “but chiz Secondly, acting gives her “a knows I’m a workaholic!” the ever break from being me.” candid celebrity laughed. “on TV, I can be whoever I “We’re moving into a new want to be so going to the set home by December—a house pretty much feels like a day off for I’ve been building as my dream me,” she explained. “I love to paint house—and there is a special and I am going to explore even
september 30-october 6, 2016 www.asianjournal.com
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‘Ballad King’ Martin Nievera & ‘Siren of the Las Vegas Strip’ Lani Misalucha in a special ‘Masquerade’ Halloween concert only at Pechanga Resort & Casino
by Tessa Mauricio-arriola ManilaTimes.net
A once in a lifetime tandem of primed talents-- famous multiawarded King of ballad Martin Heart Evangelista with Sen. Chiz Escudero nievera, and the ‘Siren of the the business side of it all the more Las Vegas Strip’ Lani Misalucha, in the coming year, but I really will perform in a live concert at can’t imagine myself not doing a Pechanga Resort & casino Theater telenovela at least once a year.” on october 29 and 30. Gathering her thoughts she Martin nievera bagged ‘The said of her diverse commitments, Box office entertainment Awards’ “I just love everything that I’m for Best Male concert Performer doing, and one project inspires of the Year on April 17, 2016, by me to do the next—whether it’s GMMSF, Inc. For 33 years now, a new show for GMA or another nievera has been delighting his exhibit. And really, even if it seems audience with not only original I hardly get any rest, I don’t feel Pinoy Music (oPM) but has tired at all. Like I said, I’m just interpreted numerous songs super inspired.” made famous by internationallyBusyness indeed becomes renowned singers. In late August, Heart evangelista, as she grows nievera launched a new albummore beautiful with each new - “ The Best of Martin nievera---surprise she pulls from her talented Kahapon.... ngayon “ by Polyeast sleeve. But what more if her next recording. A Filipino singer, baby is neither for TV nor the songwriter and actor, nievera canvas? no pressure, but what a garnered 18 platinum, five double sight that would probably be. platinum, three triple platinum and 1 quadruple platinum albums in his entire career. nievera will sing back to back with ‘Asia’s nightingale’ herself, produced in collaboration with RiteMeD, aims to pay homage to the Lani Misalucha, the first Asian to headline a main showroom of Filipino “carers.” the Las Vegas strip performing “This film is unique because with Hawaii’s Society of Seven it was the first time I did a project at the Jubilee Theater of Bally’s. about caregivers and carers. It’s Misalucha is a multi-faceted also special because this is about artist, whose rendition of songs the unsung heroes in our society. varies from pop, rock, jazz, soul We normally forget about the difficulties they go through. Taking rhythm and blues and operatic arias. care of the sick is emotionally, Together, nievera and physically, and psychologically Misalucha will provide a exhausting,” Mendoza said. blockbuster performance that is The director poignantly expected to delight patrons and captured the struggles faced by guests at the famed Pechanga a spouse, a sibling, a parent, son, Resort & casino in Temecula, daughter, a family member or a california. Tickets are now on sale professional caregiver when they care for a sick loved one/patient. The from $125, $100, $78 and $58 for an 8p.m. and 6p.m. show time, two-minute mini movie has been and may be purchased at the circulating online—via Facebook Pechanga Box office, 877-711and YouTube—and has since 2WIn (2946) or www.Pechanga. garnered more than two million com. views.
Brillante Mendoza: ‘No competition... From Page 4
cannes, it did not win as best film per se, unlike Humayo’s Golden Lion win at Venice. Asked to comment on the supposed competition between them, Mendoza finally set the record straight on what he considers “a non issue.” Brillante clarified, “There’s definitely no competition between the two of us. First and foremost, Lav and I are friends. He congratulates me whenever I win and I do the same for him. I would watch his films when it’s competing abroad, and I know he would the same for me.” This mindset, Mendoza added, comes from his firm belief that every recognition for a Filipino director is a recognition for the country. “I am elated that Filipino talent is gaining recognition around the
world. Their success as individual filmmakers is a success for all Filipino filmmakers and more importantly, for the country,” he added. Still, Mendoza is all geared up to compete, not against Diaz, but almost a hundred other films for at the 2017 oscars. excited and keyed up, the 56-year old is pleading for the nation’s support in his latest major endeavor. “It is a long and grueling process. It is not merely enough for my movie to be sent as a representative to the oscars. This is the olympics of films that’s why we are hoping to get the support of our countrymen, and most especially, our government.” Mendoza related. Brilliante’s mini-movie In the midst of his preparation for the oscars, Mendoza has helmed yet another worthy work with Pagpupugay. The mini-movie,
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Artisan Made Philippines’ pop-up event in Los Angeles Celebrate the start of Filipino-American Heritage Month with Artisan Made Philippines on Saturday, October 1, a pop-up event showcasing some of the best social enterprises emerging from the Philippines. The event will kick-off at 1 p.m. with an Eco Fashion Show featuring the beautiful pieces from each of the various collaborators such as Filip+Inna, Rags2Riches, and ANTHILL that are part of the Artisan Made Philippines Capsule Collection. After the fashion show, at 2 p.m., meet some of the founders at the Founders Fireside Chat and learn about the wonderful work that these organizations are doing in the Philippines to make a difference in the lives of artisans, indigenous tribes & women’s collectives. There will also be some surprise performances from various international artists during the event. Culminating the festivities is a VIP Kamayan Style Dinner with New York Timesfeatured Chef Yana Gilbuena, who will be creating a five-course meal using ingredients influenced by artisan-made and Indigenous Filipino tribes. The address of the venue in West Los Angeles (Marina Del Rey / Culver City / Venice area) will be provided to those who RSVP & revealed before the event. For general admission and VIP tickets, please visit: www.artisanmadeph.eventbrite.com.
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2nd Annual Kultura Food & Arts Festival in Chicago Filipino Kitchen is proud to announce the chef roster and menu for Kultura Festival, a contemporary Filipino-American food and arts festival on Sunday, October 2, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m, at Logan Square’s Emporium Arcade Bar and Surf Bar, 2363 N Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago.The festival features a roster of local culinary mainstays and out-of-town heavy hitters: Chef Kristine Subido of Pecking Order Catering; Top Chef season 10 alumna Chef Chrissy Camba of Maddy’s Dumpling House; night market favorite Hapa Chicago; Melissa Yen of JoSnow Syrups; Chef Bjorn DelaCruz of Manila Social Club (NYC); Dorothy Hernandez, co-owner and creative director of Sarap Detroit (Detroit); Chef AC Boral of RICE & SHINE and Naks Tacos (Long Beach, CA); and Chef Sharwin Tee of Curiosity Got The Chef on Lifestyle TV (Manila, Philippines). Carefully curated to appeal to those who personally identify with Filipino culture and the merely curious or uninitiated, Kultura Festival aims to highlight the best in Filipino-American food and arts. Kultura Festival tickets are available at https://ti.to/filipino-kitchen /kultura-2016.
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Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers in New Jersey Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers perform ‘100 years of song’ at St. Peter’s University, St Aedan’s Church at 7 p.m. Maestro Ryan, the Philippines’ top composer (“Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika,” Tuwing Umuulan” and more) presents his handpicked vocal group singing his arrangements and beloved hits. Admission is free, donations for the benefit of the church choir are appreciated. St. Aedan’s is at 800 Bergen Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07306.
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25th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is proud to announce the date & venue for the anticipated Silver Anniversary edition of its annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture. FPAC 25, the 25th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC), will take place Saturday, October 8 at the beautiful Echo Park Lake. Admission is FREE. The popular festival, the City of Los Angeles’ Filipino American Event, is the longest-running Filipino cultural celebration in Southern California. Audiences can expect to enjoy traditional and contemporary Filipino food, music, dance, crafts and culture. This year’s theme, “Samu’t Sari: Showcasing the Diverse Creative Tapestry of the FilAm Community,” lends its meaning to the Tagalog phrase which loosely translates to “diversity.” While certainly a hot topic in today’s society, FilAm Arts focuses on the vast contributions of Filipino American artists to the creative tapestry of the City. For more information, please visit www.filamarts.org or call 2133803722. For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please email info@filamarts.org.
An Evening with Martin Nievera at the Ford Theatres Filipino-American History Month kicks off with the much anticipated concert debut of Martin Nievera at Hollywood’s newly renovated Ford Theatres. Presented by PAE Live!, “An Evening with Martin Nievera” brings the Philippine entertainer center stage on Saturday, October 8th, 2016 at 7:30pm as he performs his greatest hits, traditional Filipino love songs and an eclectic, upbeat mix of Broadway and standard pop tunes. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Apl.de.ap Foundation, a project of the Asian Pacific Community Fund established by Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas. “An Evening with Martin Nievera” is proudly sponsored by Leelin Bakeries, Island Pacific Supermarkets and Kalayaan Incorporated of Southern California with LA18 and The Asian Journal as official television and print media sponsors. Ticket prices for “An Evening with Martin Nievera,” start at $48; Reserved Seating.Tickets are available at FordTheatres.org or via phone at (323) 461-3673.
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“Fiesta Atenista II” at the 12th all-Ateneo Alumni Convention in Las Vegas The festivities will be held at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. For complete event activities and registration, visit the convention’s website at www.aaana-atenista.org. For more information, contact Liz Carpenter at (702) 862-9212 / ecarpenterh@ aol.com or Dr. Rodrigo ‘Jun’ Farrales at (702) 373-4326 / jun_farrales@yahoo.com.
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Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers in San Francisco Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab perform ‘100 years of song’ at Herbst Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Maestro Ryan, the Philippines’ top composer (“Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika,” Tuwing Umuulan” and more) presents his handpicked vocal group singing his arrangements and beloved hits. Tickets are at www.cityboxoffice.com, Herbst Theatre is at 401 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102.
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Screenwriting seminar with Ricky Lee at the International Film Festival Manhattan Filipino scriptwriter Ricky Lee is coming to NYC! Join him as he imparts his talent and shares his 50 years of experience. Mr. Lee’s legacy started way back 1966 as an aspiring high school student who has pushed on with hard work and determination to become the Ricky Lee we know now; recipient of numerous awards, including the CNN Asian Viewers’ Choice Award for his film “Himala” and this year’s honorable guest at the International Film Festival Manhattan as the Lifetime Achievement Awardee; with hundreds of produced scripts to his name; novelist, journalist, playwright and mentor of the most notable writers and directors of Philippine Cinema. Be part of his workshop series entitled, “Writing Your Story,” on Oct 17-19. Laugh with him, cry with him, reminisce with him, feel with him and most importantly, write with him by your side. Who knows you might even be watching the movie “Himala” with him during those nights. Please email LuisPedron@gmail.com (Ricky Lee Seminar on the subject line) to get more information.
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Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers in Los Angeles Ryan Cayabyab and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers perform ‘100 years of song’ at the Plaza Del Sol Performance Hall at the Valley Performing Arts Center at 6pm. Maestro Ryan, the Philippines’ top composer (“Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika,” Tuwing Umuulan” and more) presents his handpicked vocal group singing his arrangements and beloved hits. Tickets are at www.ticketmaster.com, Venue is at CSU-Northridge, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge, CA 91330.
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september 30-october 6, 2016 www.asianjournal.com
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F-1 student visas and authorized employment SKT Immigration
Students are generally admitted for a maximum of 30 days before the program start date. Upon admission to the United States, students are admitted for “duration of status,” which means they are admitted Catherine Yen until completion of the program An F-1 student visa allows plus an additional 60 days. The a student to study full-time in additional 60 days can be used the United States (“U.S.”) at an to prepare for departing the U.S., accredited school. The F-1 student transferring to another school, or visa is a non-immigrant visa, changing education levels. which means that the student As an F-1 student, cannot have the intent to reside employment is not allowed during permanently in the U.S. The basic the first academic year except criteria for obtaining an F-1 student for on-campus employment. visa are as follows: On-campus employment includes • The student must be enrolled work performed on school at an accredited college, university, premises or at an off-campus seminary, conservatory, high location which is educationally school, or language training affiliated with the school. When program. The program must result school is in session, the F-1 in a degree, diploma, or certificate. student may only work up to 20 • The school must be hours a week. When school is not authorized by the U.S. government in session, F-1 students may work to accept international students. full-time. • You must be a full-time After the first academic student. year, the F-1 student may obtain • You must be proficient in off-campus employment under English or receive training to certain circumstances, including become proficient in English. severe economic hardship caused • You must have sufficient by unforeseen circumstances. financial support to support Additionally, the employment yourself as a student. must be related to a course of • You must maintain a foreign study, for the purpose of practical resident abroad with no intention training, and cannot be for English of abandoning it. training.
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond
Most F-1 students engage in post-completion Optional Practical Training (“OPT”), which is limited to 12 months and must be completed within 14 months of graduation. F-1 students who have a degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) may engage in 24 months of OPT. Understanding employment eligibility can be lengthy and frustrating without the help of experienced attorneys and staff. Our seasoned team can assist and guide you through the F-1 student visa process. Catharine Yen manages the immigration department at Sullivan, Krieger, Truong, Spagnola, and Klausner. Attorney Yen has filed hundreds of immigration petitions, and she has spoken at national conferences and co-authored several articles on various immigration topics. *** Catharine Yen manages the immigration department at Sullivan, Krieger, Truong, Spagnola, and Klausner. She has a 100% approval rate for filed EB-5 petitions. She has spoken at national conferences and coauthored several articles on various EB-5 topics. Website: www.sullivankrieger.com Contact us at any of our offices: Long Beach + 1 (562) 597-7070 Irvine + 1 (949) 390-5270 Philippines + 63-2-788-5196 (Advertising Supplement)
Two magical words “Gratitude is the memory of the heart.”
— Jean Baptiste Massieu
Monette adeva MaglaYa (Part 2 of 2 parts)
LET’S do a reality check. So okay, your partner is the consummate slob and you have to pick up after him. He thinks he has a maid living with him for free. He has this maddening habit of not putting the toothpaste cap back on. That’s easy. Get one with a cap that snaps back on. The point is to find a way to work around an annoyance or when all else fails, accept the tiny irritations. With time and patience, things get easier. As you get older and hopefully, wiser, your eyes dim and your hearing goes for a reason. You become less critical as you see the bigger picture more clearly and the end game is within sight. You become aware of your own mortality. The point is that you can choose to look through the lens of kindness and forgiveness and instead see if he still has those itty bitty, wonderful things about him that attracted you to him in the first place. His sense of humor maybe or the way he still makes you laugh… Love is a two-way street. note how you behave towards him. How do you look to him? Do you take the time and the effort to look va-va-voom and give him that look that can make his heartbeat race just a tad? Or did you let yourself go, letting gravity and the ravages of time run rough shod over your physical appearance? Put up a fight. There’s help out there. Or do you nag him to death for every little thing? Do you make him feel small with your smartass barbs? Or does he feel he can soar like an eagle when you are around him? Don’t buy into the modern concept of the throwaway or trade-up society that seems to imply you can change partners every five years or so. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. It may work for cars and appliances but falls flat for human relationships. Fix what can yet be fixed. nurture what can grow into something beautiful. Eat humble pie, if you have to. There is no shame if you truly love. Ask a Higher Power to help you keep things whole. When you value your partner
and are mindful of him or her, it shows that you are grateful for his part in your life and that you are interested in going the distance and making the relationship work maybe even till life beyond death. Taking your husband, wife or partner for granted is the biggest cause of so many divorces these days. If alarming numbers are to be believed, half the population already live in Splitsville. There is a disproportionate number of single moms and single dads worldwide struggling with severely diminished finances and dealing with courtappointed visits. They juggle schedules, shuttling children in two locations and in cases of bitter, acrimonious divorces, compete for their children’s affections while complicating things further by starting up new relationships. All these are piled on top of broken, disappointed, cynical lives. They are left to deal with what I call the BIG D’s – the doldrums of doubt, darkness, disease, depression, desperation, dejection, disappointment, discouragement and disillusionment. You just wish you can DELETE all these ugly D’s from your life. Some go to the deep end. Sadly, tragically some of these cases end in death. Love has died. nothing matters. Yet love, according to the “Desiderata” is as perennial as the grass. While there is life, hope springs eternal. Those who are not put off by a disastrous relationship think that the “right one” is just around the corner. Perhaps. But if they do not learn from their previous mistakes, they are doomed to repeat them. There’s that D again. They will cycle in and out of one disastrous relationship after the other. Single parenthood is no cakewalk in most cases. Ask around. Do not believe the distortion of truth in movies spun by Hollywood or this trend of celebrities adopting babies and the media glamorizing the lives of single parents. That is one tall tale of an ego on overdrive. There is no romantic or comedic element in going it alone. Single parenthood is more like the Theater of the
Absurd. The honest truth: there is little glamour or fun in single parenthood – in far too many cases, just an endless, harrowing tale of one struggle after the next. There are exceptions of course. Unless you made a foolish or tragic fatal choice or fate played a dirty trick on you and you ended up meeting and marrying the partner from hell. He or she could be a sociopath, a psychopath, a criminal, a user, a liar, a pervert, a druggie, a murderer, a serial philanderer or just unfit to live in this planet with another human being. Perhaps, the best way to happiness would be to love, appreciate and say “thank you” to the one you’re with every single day of your life together. And while you’re at it, blow a kiss to the heavens for making you a winner in the love lottery stakes sending you someone you love or can learn to love AnD (THE BLESSInG of all blessings) who loves you back! Love is not a 50-50 proposition. It’s not even giving 110% of yourself to the other. It sounds sentimental, sappy and old fashioned but whether you like it or not, it is giving of yourself without counting the cost. It is the pure, intrinsic nature of life’s greatest mystery - LOVE. Those couples buried six feet deep, side by side at Forest Lawn probably understood what love and devotion meant. Their souls may have fused. Their hearts in the life beyond beat as one. That is one story you can believe in. (Or if you’re in for a laugh and have a sly, dry, wicked sense of humor, you might say those savvy couples probably got a twofer from the cemetery plot sales rep! LOL ;) How to find THE OnE if you’re on the hunt? Or how can you make THE OnE realize that you’re THE OnE for him or her without beating him or her over the head? That is one story for yet another day. * * * Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
Alex Gonzaga & Joseph Marco: Almost but...
From Page 4 Let us see if you match by completing the following sentences: My pet peeve is… Joseph: Whenever people say they would hang out with you and they cancel at the last minute. Alex: Pretentious people and insects. What excites me is… Joseph: The future. Alex: new opportunities. I know that I’m in love
when… Joseph: I always think about and want to be with that person. Alex: I’m happy if I have a dayoff from work. I am the type of person who… Joseph: Likes to try different adventures!?! Alex: now enjoys quiet moments. I expect my lifetime partner to be… Joseph: There for me no mat-
ter what happens. Alex: Accepting, appreciative and funny. I don’t like a person who… Joseph: Thinks highly of him/herself. Alex: Pa-cool and pa-sosyal. I think my best trait is… Joseph: I consider myself generous. I enjoy giving and sharing all the blessings that I get from work. Alex: I always find the funny side at any moment.
Xian Lim supports Kimerald’s return
september 30-october 6, 2016 www.asianjournal.com
by MJ
Marfori ManilaTimes.net
MANiLAtiMeS.Net caught up with Xiam Lim last week and found out a couple of new developments in the actorsinger’s career and personal life. First off, he proudly shared that he is now a vlogger—that is a video blogger—as he arrived at an event for a grocery chain at the World trade center with his own HD camera and a selfie stick ready for action. For Xian, video blogging is his way of updating his fans on his off camera finding his youtube channel XianLim8, especially since he is frequently misinterpreted and hounded by bashers over his work and personal life. “i feel like what they see on tV is not enough. there are so many things i want to share. i want to have this platform so i could showcase to them what’s
by Stefan
Meet Vin Abrenica
Punongbayan Philstar.com
A reALity artista search, a few low-key tV projects, a feature film and an “Maalaala Mo Kaya” episode, and Vin is finally out to carve his name into the unforgiving walls of show business. We at Philstar.com propose he no longer be known as a mere Abrenica sibling. His name is Vin Abrenica, stepping out of his kuya’s shadow and seizing the spotlight he has always deserved. Philstar.com: When did the business beckon? Xian Lim confirms that his team up with Kim Chiu is taking a break. Vin Abrenica: Nakita ko yung with her first hit love team with going on in my life… not just “Artista Academy” sa tV-5. initials Gerald Anderson. show business but the different ko yun, “AA.” So naisip ko, why not Xian stated for the record side.” give it a chance? Ito naman yung the “Kimerald” return has his full Xian also confirmed rumors gusto ko ever since — kumakanta support. “i support Kim and i’m that his tandem with Kim Chiu, ako sa banyo at sumasayaw sure they’re going to produce known as “KimXi,” is taking a kuwarto nang walang nakakakita. a very wonderful material. i am break. Apparently, Kim is now Pagdating sa “Artista Academy,” i happy for them.” preparing for her reunion movie jumped into acting classes kahit magmukha akong tanga. Nakita ko na lang na masarap palang umarte, na maging ibang tao kasinageexperiment ka. have two sons — rap and renz) by boy abunda Before showbiz, you spent and treats tori like the daughter Philstar.com a few semesters studying HRM she never had. LorNA tolentino will gladly let in Kalayaan College, then a few “it’s really different having a her granddaughter join showbiz. semesters studying comparative girl around. She’s like my doll. i She sings, dances and plays literature at UP, then, at the can dress her up in girly clothes. make-believe games. She puts request of your dad, a year Her choice of games is also very up her own show, complete with taking up culinary arts at Global different from the boys,” observes make-up and costumes. Academy — a course you finished. Lt. At four, Lyla Victoria or tori is What can you say about being Lt and rap’s daughter have the apple of her grandma Lorna a late-bloomer and how can we that striking similarity that endears tolentino (Lt)’s eyes. And this early, the little girl even more to Lt. motivate others? the proud lola can see that showbiz Para sa akin, ang paraan lang is “if you see my photos when i Lorna Tolentino (with granddaughter Tori): is something the precocious girl was a little girl, i really look like her,” It’s really different having a girl around. She’s to fight for what you really want. it will feel at home someday. took me so long to fight for what i Lt beams. like my doll. Weekends are more exciting, as felt was mine. Ang naisip ko, simula the award-winning actress is Lorna and her pretty apo pretend noong nag-16 ako, after ko magtransported back to her childhood What they’re going through as they’re in a singing contest and tori every time she and tori play parents is something i’ve already high school, wala namang pera sa is the eager contestant. experienced, so i’m always there if ginagawa ko. if you really love what make-believe or their usual card they also have the time of their and board games like Snakes and they need me,” says Lt. you do, ipaglaban mo yung passion lives playing salon regulars, and of course, she’ll always be mo at hindi yung gusto ng ibang tao Ladders and Uno. take turns applying nail polish and there for her granddaughter, who para sa ‘yo. “Her reaction to things makeup on themselves and fixing alternately calls Lt lola, “Lucky You get asked this a lot, but teaches me to see things from her each other’s hair. Charm” and granny. here it goes. Is it a struggle to be perspective and just appreciate they hold make-believe photo life’s simple things,” explains Lt. “My dreams are her dreams. if Aljur’s brother? shoots where tori acts as director, she finally realizes what she wants Yung first struggle na naShe’s more inspired to stay and the award-winning actress, a to be, then i’m all there to support experience ko ay yung kinohealthy so she can shop, watch willing student. compare ako ng relatives ko sa movies and play more games with her. i just want her, of course, to “She actually taught me to do be happy, successful, healthy, and kanya. Yung pinakamalaki naman tori. different faces — happy, surprised, was when during the reality Guiding tori’s first-time parents have God always by her side,” the angry, sad, etc.,” reveals Lt. proud lola points out. competition. Nakakabasa ako ng when the girl gets sick, or just it’s sheer bliss for the wellNeedless to say, talented tori write-ups na hindi naman daw ako being there to help them is a loved actress, who doesn’t have — without her knowing it — is mananalo even if i did my best kasi source of joy. a daughter of her own (she and making dear Lola look and feel never sa history ng Philippines daw “the lola is always there her late husband, rudy Fernandez great, inside and out. na may nanalong magkapatid sa to support and give advice.
Lola Lorna Tolentino
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“It took me so long to fight for what I felt was mine. If you really love what you do, ipaglaban mo yung passion mo at hindi yung gusto ng ibang tao para sa’yo,” says Abrenica. Philstar.com photo by Mariel Frances Urbiztondo
similar reality contests. Umiyak ako noon. Akala ko hindi ako mananalo. i still pushed myself. i still feel it, though. Isang tingin ko lang, kahit ilang meters ang layo, kapag bumuka ang bibig ng tao at na-lip read ko yung “kapatid,” alam ko na yun. even sa girlfriends ko noon, ipinakikilala ako sa parents nila: “Ma, this is my boyfriend. Kapatid ni Aljur.” Tapos ipagmamayabang ka sa kapitbahay: “Siyota ng anak ko, kapatid ni Aljur!” Meron po akong pangalan. Ako po si Avin. Ako po si Vin. Kaya ngayon kahit papaano sa paglipat ko sa ABS-CBN, kapag nakikita ko yung pangalan ko, “Vin,” hindi nila alam yung happiness na nararamdaman ko. May pangalan na ako. Ilang taon na ako, ngayon pa lang ako nagkakapangalan! Let’s talk about Hermano Puli. it’s my first film and my first indie. Ako si Apolonio Dela Cruz, isang mandirigmang indio. Meron akong girlfriend na gustong magmadre. Tinanggap ko pa rin kahit masakit. Noong nasa kumbento siya, naisip na niyang magpakasal na kami pero nirape siya ng isang prayle habang nangungumpisal sa simbahan. Nagpakamatay siya kasi duming dumi siya sa sarili niya. Yung karga ko for this role was inisip ko yung discrimination ng ibang bansa sa atin. Nagpunta ako dati sa Australia and experienced it firsthand. Hindi ako pinapasok kasi Pilipino ako unless ipakita ko yung wallet ko. Doon ko kay Apolonio
Dela Cruz ibinuhos lahat ng galit ko. Tell me about your acting process. every day, tumitingin ako sa ibang tao at pinag-aaralan ko ang kilos nila. i do research; yun talaga ang napulot ko sa acads. Nagkacharacter study ako. Para sa akin, at dahil din sa natutunan ko sa workshops, naniniwala ako sa karga (baggage). Hindi ako puwedeng lumabas sa scene nang hindi ako handa. Atsaka naniniwala akong no two actors are alike. every person is unique. Siguro if you’re faking it, magkakapareho. Kung dinadamdam mo talaga, hindi magkakapareho yun, kahit iisa pang role at eksena ang ibigay mo sa akin at sa iba pang artista. What do you like the least about yourself as an actor? Yung kapag nagkakaroon ako ng tinatawag nilang “school of acting.” Kapag tumagal ka sa pag-arte, nagkakaroon ka ng mannerisms. Nagiging calculated ka na. May nakakapagsabi sa akin noon at yun ang plan kong tanggalin sa sarili ko. What’s next for you? everything feels so new right now. Kalilipat ko lang from my brother’s house. Kakapa-laundry ko pa nga lang kanina! Pati sa work, lahat nagbago. Ipinagdadasal ko lang gabi-gabi that i tread the right path, meet the right people, at mabuksan ang isip ko. Basta makaarte lang ako, masayang masaya na ako.
september 30-october 6, 2016 www.asianjournal.com
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