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w w w. a s i a n Volume 24 - No. 35 • 2 Sections - 16 Pages
.com T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r
SePtember 8-14, 2017 Also published in LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEw YORk/NEw JERSEY
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Amnesty Int’l calls for international probe on killings of children in PH by Dana
SioSon AJPress
LOOKING INTO KIAN’S DEATH. The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, chaired by Senator Panfilo Lacson (2nd from left), on Tuesday, Sept. 5, resumed its inquiry into the death of Kian Loyd delos Santos, 17, who was fatally shot by police officers during an anti-drug operation in Caloocan, Metro Manila. Also in photo are (from left) Senators Risa Hontiveros, Grace Poe, and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
DATELINE
USA
from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
US pledges $14.3 million for Marawi relief the united states has donated P730 million ($14.3 million) for the ongoing relief operations and rehabilitation of marawi City, according to u.s. Ambassador to the Philippines sung Kim. In a press briefing on tuesday, september 5, Kim announced that Washington will provide humanitarian aid to the victims of the besieged city in mindanao through its Agency for International Development (usAID). “this money will focus on restoring basic public services, including health care, water, and electricity, jumpstarting livelihoods, and promoting community reconciliation and alternatives to violent extremism,” Kim said. According to him, P153 million of the u.s. donation will be used for humanitarian assistance to deliver supplies including drinking PAGE A2
Ambassador Kim: Teens’ deaths in drug operations ‘a tragedy’ u.s. Ambassador to the Philippines sung Kim on Wednesday, sept. 6 described the recent killings of teenagers in police operations “tragic” but noted that authorities are already investigating the cases. Kim, who admitted he is “very cautious about commenting substantively” on the recent killings of students Kian Delos santos and Carl Angelo Arnaiz, reiterated the need for a probe into the slay cases. “the recent cases involving the police and these tragic deaths of young men... there’s an ongoing investigation so I’m very cautious about commenting substantively on what exactly happened,” Kim said in a press briefing. “But, obviously, it’s a tragedy that young men lose their lives in this manner, and this is why I think it’s so important for there to be full investigation and accountability of what happened,” he added. PAGE A2
humAn rights group Amnesty International (AI) on thursday, september 7 condemned the recent slay of 14-year-old reynaldo de Guzman in the Philippines. AI Director for southeast Asia and the Pacific James Gonzales insisted that de Guzman’s death is not an isolated case or a mistake but the “latest atrocity” in the series of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines. “how many more children must die in the Philippines to end this horrific and heartless violence?” Gonzales said in a statement. PAGE A2
MEETING WITH CARL’S PARENTS. President Rodrigo Duterte meets with Carlito and Eva Arnaiz, parents of the slain teenager Carl, who was allegedly killed in a shootout with policemen on August 17. The parents of the slain teenager as well as the victim’s sister Camille paid a courtesy call on the president at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on Tuesday, September 5. During their meeting, the president assured a thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted in the case. Malacañang photo by Ace Morandante
Fight to keep DREAMers in full swing, still room for worry by Rae
ann VaRona AJPress
DesPIte many urges not to proceed, the trump administration rescinded the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program on tuesday, september 5. As the phasing out of the program begins, the rush to find solutions for DreAmers is in full swing but efforts may not be enough. Attorney General Jeff sessions officially announced the administration’s decision to end the DACA program which he said was an “unconstitutional exercise of authority by the executive Branch.” the program, signed by former President Barack obama in an executive action PROTECT OUR DREAMERS. Jocelin Reyes, 19, said having protection from deportation in 2012, protected from deportation nearly relieved her fears and anxieties. But now, the University of California-Santa Barbara 800,000 undocumented people brought to student said, “the fear has tripled.”
Photo by Anna Gorman for Kaiser Health News
the u.s. illegally as children. With a sixmonth period winding down to its termination, White house members are already looking to counter the decision. A lawsuit was filed on Wednesday, september 6, in new York by attorneys general of 15 states and the District of Columbia. new York Attorney General eric schneiderman announced on Wednesday that they were suing the federal government for the decision he called “cruel, shortsighted, inhumane, and potentially devastating to hundreds and thousands of immigrants and millions of people who work with, study with, love, and care for them.” he added that the decision was driven by trump’s “personal anti-mexican, antiPAGE A3
PH gov’t ready to assist Filipino immigrants in US Marcos camp says ‘fight not over,’ cites evidence of 2016 polls anomaly by alexiS
RomeRo Philstar.com
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella Malacañang photo
mAnILA — the government is ready to assist filipino illegal immigrants who may be deported after the program that permitted them to stay legally in the u.s. is scrapped, malacañang said on thursday, september 7. President Donald trump has announced plans to revoke the Deferred Action for Childhood
Arrivals (DACA) program, which shields illegal immigrants who came to the u.s. when they were children from deportation. Presidential spokesman ernesto Abella said the Department of foreign Affairs is working closely with members of the filipino community in the u.s., especially those that would be directly affected once the program is removed. PAGE A2
AFP, MILF join forces in fighting IS terrorists by Dana
SioSon AJPress
the Armed forces of the Philippines (AfP) has teamed up with the moro Islamic Liberation front (mILf) in stamping out proIslamic state (Is) militants in mindanao. soldiers were seen associating freely with their old foes in maguindanao province, as the mILf joined the assault on the terrorists that pledged loyalty to Is. the government troopers, reinforced by mILf, launched a series of airstrikes against Daesh-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic freedom fighters (BIff) last sunday, september 3. the BIff is a breakaway group of the mILf led by esmael Abdulmalik, alias Abu turaifi. PAGE A4
by Dana
SioSon AJPress
the camp of former senator ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos Jr. remains confident in winning its bid against Philippine Vice President ma. Leonor “Leni” robredo despite a recent court decision affirming the authenticity of the 2016 elections. the supreme Court (sC), sitting as the Presidential electoral tribunal (Pet), earlier dismissed marcos’ first cause of action in his poll protest against robredo, which challenged the authenticity of the Automated election system (Aes) in the 2016 elections. Atty. George Garcia, head of marcos’ legal team, said they “highly respect” the court’s decision, admitting that the first cause of action “will not result to the procPAGE A4
COMMON CAUSE. This photo taken on Tuesday, Sept. 5 shows a a Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebel with face covered, along with a government soldier manning a mobile check point in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao province, in southern island of Mindanao. The joint operation is the latest tactic by the Philippine government to try to stamp out pro-IS fighters, after months of battling a separate faction of militants who have besieged the city of Marawi, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) to the north. Photo courtesy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Inquirer.net photo
A
http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797
September 8-14, 2017 • OC/Ie ASIAN JOUrNAL
From the Front Page
PH gov’t ready to assist Filipino immigrants in US PAGE A1 “We will provide assistance, through the use of the Assistance to Nationals Fund and the Legal Assistance Fund, to Filipinos who may end up getting deported as a result of Washington’s decision,” Abella said. Under DACA, qualified immigrants will not be deported for two years. The undocumented
immigrants can renew their permits once the two-year period lapses. The policy, which officials said would pave the way to a “lawful system of immigration,” is expected to affect over 4,500 young Filipinos. Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano assured assistance for those who
would be affected by the move of the U.S. government, including legal help in their immigrationrelated cases. “We will authorize with certain limitations the use of the Assistance to Nationals [ATN] fund and the Legal Assistance Fund to assist immigration-related cases such as those arising from the decision of President Trump to revoke the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals,” Cayetano said. For this year, the DFA has P400 million for its ATN and P100 million in legal assistance fund intended for overseas Filipino workers in trouble with the law in their respective host countries. Cayetano advised those who would be affected by the changes to prepare for the worse while exploring other possible legal options. “In any event, we are ready to welcome and assist our kababayan [countrymen]in whatever way we can if they are returned to the Philippines,” the DFA secretary said. (With reports from Jefferson Antiporda/ManilaTimes.net)
Ambassador Kim: Teens’ deaths in... PAGE A1 Envoy notes government probes The U.S. envoy also cited how Malacañang has also indicated there will be complete investigations into the deaths. “Relevant authorities will look closely at what happened, and then, if any wrong is discovered, then there should be appropriate punishment for those involved,” Kim said. On August 22, Kim extended his sympathies to the family of Delos Santos. He took to Twitter to express hope that the investigations will lead to “full accountability.” Delos Santos was shot dead by the police in an anti-drug operation in Caloocan City while Arnaiz was slain after he allegedly robbed a taxi driver and was chased also by the members of Caloocan City police. Both Delos Santos and Arnaiz were allegedly linked to illegal drugs. (Rosette Adel/Philstar. com)
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ASEAN UNITY. Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Jose Ruperto Martin M. Andanar (3rd from left), and Honorable Kazuhide Ishikawa (center), Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of the Philippines, lead other officials during the opening of the 2nd ASEAN-JAPAN TV Festival, at Seda Vertis North Hotel, Quezon City on Thursday, September 7. PNA photo
Amnesty Int’l calls for...
PAGE A1 Also known as “Kulot,” De Guzman was found dead on Tuesday, September 5, in a creek in Gapan, Nueva Ecija after he went missing for 20 days. His head was covered with packaging tape and cloth, and according to the initial investigation, he had 30 stab wounds on his body. De Guzman was the last person seen accompanying 19-year-old Carl Arnaiz, who was killed by policemen in an alleged shootout along C3 Road in Navotas after allegedly robbing a taxi driver on August 18. Forensic reports, however, suggested that Arnaiz was kneeling when he was initially shot, then was killed with more shots after he was lying on the ground. “This case and those of other young people makes it even more urgent that an international level investigation takes place,” Gon-
zales said. He further stressed, “The world can no longer afford to look away, stay silent, or offer muted expressions of condemnation. The brutality must stop. The victims and their families deserve justice.” According to AI, more than 50 children have died in “a wave of unlawful killings” in the Philippines. A police raid on August 16 also claimed the life of 17-yearold Kian Delos Santos, who allegedly violently resisted arrest and pulled a gun on the officers. Witnesses and CCTV footage, however, point to Delos Santos being shot at close range and begging for his life. “Extrajudicial executions of people are never justified, and when it comes to killing children this is especially horrific, brutally cutting short budding lives
and condemning their families to a lifetime of inconsolable sadness,” Gonzales added. Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo also denounce the recent killings, echoing calls to stop unlawful deaths. She stressed that a society where young people were among victims of violence is “unsafe, unjust, and unacceptable.” “Hindi natin maaaring palagpasin ito. Hindi tayo ganito. Hindi ganito ang Pilipino. Kailangang huminto ang walang pakundangang patayan (We can’t just let this pass. We’re not like this. Filipinos aren’t like this. All these killings, done with impunity, have to stop),” said Robredo in a statement. She then urged the public to unite to ensure that the killings will stop and those responsible will be held accountable for their crimes.
US pledges $14.3 million for Marawi...
PAGE A1 water, hygiene kits, and shelter materials for evacuation centers. Meanwhile, P577 million will be allocated for the rehabilitation of the city and affected surrounding areas. This includes the restoration of basic public services like health care, water and electricity. Washington also vowed to provide 6,500 tablet arm chairs for schools in Mindanao. Additionally, the Public Affairs Section of
the U.S. Embassy in Manila will also provide P22 million for educational programs for students and women leaders. “The United States is deeply committed to this relationship and remains ready to support our friend and ally as we face the challenges and opportunities,” the ambassador said. He also reiterated Washington’s continuous support for the Philippine government in its efforts to combat terrorism.
Since the Marawi crisis broke out on May 23 following the attack of Islamic State-inspired extremists, the U.S. Army has been providing technical assistance to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). “We all look forward to the end of the crisis, and the end of the fighting and suffering. We have been and will continue to support the Philippine government’s efforts to deal with the crisis,” Kim added. (Dana Sioson/AJPress)
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Fight to keep DREAMers in full swing... PAGE A1 Latino bias.” Schneiderman signaled the intent to sue on Tuesday and said, “My job is to protect all the residents of New York — no matter where they come from, and I will use every legal tool I have available to make sure they get the opportunity to live the American dream, just like millions of New York immigrants before them. “DREAMERs are Americans in every way. They played by the rules. They pay their taxes.” In California, where the largest number of DACA recipients live, government officials also expressed legal action against Tuesday’s decision. In a statement following the announcement, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra said that the state was ready to sue the Trump administration. “President Trump has turned his back on hundreds of thousands of children and young Americans who came forward and put their trust in our government. But in terminating DACA, the Trump administration has also violated the Constitution and federal laws,” said Becerra. “California is taking action because one in four DACA grantees live in our great state,” he added. “I will do everything I can to fight for them.” Late July, Becerra led a coalition of 20 attorneys general, which included Schneiderman, in sending a letter to Trump that urged him to retain DACA. Pending bills in Congress On Tuesday, Trump sent out tweets mentioning Congress’ major role in the upcoming months, and the possibility of him revisiting the issue if still in a deadlock. “I look forward to working [with Democrats and Republicans] in Congress to address immigration reform in a way that puts hardworking citizens of our country 1st,” read one tweet. He later tweeted, “Congress now has 6 months to legalize DACA (something the Obama Administration was unable to do). If they can’t, I will revisit the issue!” There are a number of pending bills that Congress could act upon within the next six months that would address the future status of DREAMers. At the forefront is the “Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act” (DREAM Act) which was first introduced in 2001, and failed to pass multiple times. Sponsor Senators Dick Durbin
(D-Ill), and Lindsey Graham, (R-S.C) proposed a new version of the bill in July of this year which got a seemingly unfavorable response by the Trump administration. Trump’s legislative affairs director Marc Short expressed that the administration had “opposed the DREAM Act and likely will be consistent on that.” Still, Durbin and Graham said in a press conference Tuesday afternoon that they were calling on Congress to act on the bill before the end of September. “We need to pass in this month of September a DREAM Act — a permanent law in this country that says that these young people will have their chance to become part of America’s future, “ said Durbin. If the revised DREAM Act is to pass, recipients would have the same protections as DACA, as well as a path for permanent legal resident status or citizenship, if certain requirements are met — DACA did not provide either. Other bills include the Recognizing America’s Children (RAC) Act, the American Hope Act, and the Bar Removal of Individuals Who Dream (BRIDGE) Act. Like the DREAM Act, the RAC and the American Hope Act offer a path to citizenship upon meeting certain requirements. The RAC Act, sponsored by Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-Fla.), would allow immigrants who have been vetted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) a pathway to legalization through either higher education, service in the armed forces, or work authorization. Participants would be put on a five-year conditional status which they could reapply for a five-year permanent status, according to a press release by Curbelo. The fastest option to gaining citizenship would be the American Hope Act, sponsored by Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill, which only requires that applicants to have entered the U.S. before the age of 18, and have not been convicted of certain crimes. Eligible participants can apply for a conditional permanent residency before applying for a lawful permanent residence status, and finally citizenship. Like DACA, the BRIDGE Act, sponsored by Rep. Mike Coffman, R-Colo., would give eligible participants protection and authorization to work. It also would not include a path to citizenship. According to the National Immigration Law Center, the requirements would essentially be the same.
Dateline USa
The big difference lies in that the benefits would be extended for three years, basically allowing Congress more time to solidify a solution for DREAMers. Still room for worry On Thursday, September 7, Trump sent out another tweet assuring that DACA participants had nothing to worry about. The tweet read, “For all of those (DACA) that are concerned about your status during the 6 month period, you have nothing to worry about - No action!” Despite Trump’s attempt at comforting those affected, there are certain realities that may keep DACA grantees worried. As mentioned, the DREAM Act, which many advocates have been increasingly pushing, has failed multiple times before which was why Obama enacted DACA. It doesn’t help to know that Congress has other things on their plate like raising the debt ceiling, avoiding a government shutdown, and addressing needs of Hurricane Harvey victims. For those already in the program, their window of making sure their documents are valid is only until Oct. 5. That deadline looks grimmer for those who might not have the $495 easily available. As for the many that were unable to secure DACA benefits by Sept. 5, they are left in limbo. One of the many concerns recipients had even prior to the decision was of the DHS’ access to their personal information which they feared would be used for deportation. The DHS has said that DACA participant information would not be “proactively provided” to other law enforcement entities like the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or Customs and Border Protection (CBP), unless they pose a threat to national security or public safety. They also said that the policy may be rescinded or modified at anytime without notice. More recently, CNN obtained a memo by the Trump administration titled “Talking Points - DACA Rescission,” that included distressing content. The 12th bullet point stated that the DHS urges DACA recipients to “use the time remaining on their work authorizations to prepare for and arrange their departure from the United States.” In the meantime, over 800,000 individuals who have been protected by DACA are watching to see what actions the White House will make. Over 4,500 of them come from the Philippines. n
FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS
( Mt Carmel, Mt Beatitude, Mt.Tabor, Cana, Capernum, Nazareth, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem Qumran, Masada, Jericho )
Dec 3 to 14, 2017
Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Alvin Cachola
OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 8-14, 2017
A
Move to end DACA leaves some young immigrants fearing for their health by BarBara
LOS ANGELES — For 26-yearold Paulina Ruiz, having legal immigration status is about more than going to school or holding a job. It’s about staying healthy. The University of CaliforniaLos Angeles graduate, whose parents brought her from Mexico to the U.S. illegally two decades ago, has cerebral palsy, a neurological condition diagnosed shortly after birth. In the past, Ruiz said, she relied on emergency rooms for her health care and rarely could see specialists. She developed kidney and back problems after years of inconsistent medical care and using an inappropriate wheelchair. But in 2012, she qualified for the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which temporarily protected her from deportation. In California, that meant she could get Medi-Cal, California’s version of the Medicaid insurance program for low-income Americans, and regularly see a doctor. The Trump administration’s controversial decision on Tuesday to scrap the DACA program does more than put nearly 800,000 “Dreamers” in fear of deportation and losing their jobs. It threatens the health care of thousands of young adults like Ruiz, who either have job-based insurance or whose incomes qualify them for Medicaid in California and several other states. “I am very upset,” said Ruiz, who organizes for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles and lives near the city. “I don’t know what’s going to happen to my health.”
Feder OstrOv and anna GOrman Kaiser Health News
The decision is set to take effect in six months, unless Congress comes up with an alternative plan. Trump has said the program, started under President Obama in 2012, rewards lawbreakers who hurt Americans by taking their jobs and depressing wages, a claim some economists dispute. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said Tuesday that the program was unconstitutional because it was a unilateral executive action on a proposal that had been repeatedly rejected by Congress. Trump, who has suggested he has conflicting sentiments about the program, left open the door for Congress to change it. “I have a love for these people, and hopefully now Congress will be able to help them and do it properly,” he said, according to The New York Times. But the newspaper noted that he did not call for bipartisan legislation to restore its protections. The program allows immigrants between the ages of 16 and 31 who were brought to the United States illegally as children to receive work permits and temporary protection from deportation. Those who qualified were explicitly barred from receiving federal health benefits through Medicaid, Obamacare exchanges or other programs. Many DACA recipients now have jobs with health insuran ce. In addition, California, Ne w York, Massachusetts, Minnesota and the District of Columbia have used their own money to cover low-income Dreamers through Medicaid, according to Tanya Broder,
Paulina Ruiz, who has cerebral palsy, said losing her legal immigration status could mean losing her health coverage and access to doctors. Ruiz is on Medi-Cal, which helps cover some of the costs of her medical care. Photo courtesy of Paulina Ruiz
a Berkeley, Calif.-based senior staff attorney for the National Immigration Law Center. There are an estimated 220,000 DACA recipients in California, the largest number in the country. Those who meet income requirements — 138 percent of the federal poverty level or $33,534 for a family of four — can qualify for coverage under the state’s “Permanently Residing in the United States under Color of Law” eligibility category. That coverage is now in question. In California, those at risk of losing Medicaid are 19 and older, because the state under a separate law decided to cover all low-income children, regardless of immigration status, through age 18. That decision was not connected to the DACA program. With the federal government’s action, “nobody will lose coverage in the Medi-Cal program immediately,” said Ronald Coleman, director of government affairs for the California Immigrant Policy Center, an immigrant advocacy group. But Coleman worries about what happens after March 5, when DACA’s protections will end — unless Congress takes action to protect the program. The Department of Health Care Services, which oversees Maria Garcia, 22, said she was able to get a job as a receptionist at a Los Angeles hotel Medi-Cal, could not provide a because of the DACA program. The job also came with health insurance, which helped cover comment on Tuesday, a spokesphysical therapy from a knee injury. She fears getting fired and being unable to pay for her woman said. own health insurance and medical care. (Anna Gorman/California Healthline) PAGE A4
Havan�, Cub� May 22 to 29, 2018
May 22, 2018 (Tuesday - Day 1) Los Angeles to Havana, Cuba Depart from LAX to Havana, Cuba. Upon arrival in Havana, meet our guide and transfer to the hotel for dinner. May 23, 2018 (Wednesday - Day 2) Havana, Cuba Our day will begin with mass at the Cathedral of Havana located in the center of Old Havana. After mass, proceed for a city tour of Old Havana with an experienced local tour guide. The tour will take 4 DEC-Day 2 - (Mon) - Arrive at Ben Gurion airport Tel-Aviv/Tiberias place on foot and you will visit all the squares of Old Havana. Take in the astonishing beauty of the After you have finished Immigration, collect Luggage then Meet our guide and driver. Transfer to Tiberias , Dinner /overnight Gai Beach Hotel historical buildings, sculptures, and monuments. After lunch you will have free time to bargain at the 5 DEC-Day 3 - (Tues) Cesarea /Haifa San Jose Craft Market. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 3 DEC-Day 1 - (Sun) LAX/TLV On board meals are served
There was a certain man in Caesarea” Drive north to the sparkling port city of Haifa, viewing Caesarea en route, the city built by Herod. In Haifa, we will ascend Mt. Carmel; home of the two prophets Elijah and Elisha, Visit the Stella Maris Church celebrate Holy Mass in the main Altar, after enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean, continue to Tiberias for dinner and overnight. Gai Beach Hotel (BB,D)
May 24, 2018 (Thursday – Day 3) Havana, Cuba This morning, we will visit the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. This religious complex is the most extensive of those surviving in Old Havana. Here you will attend mass. After mass, you will meet with the 6 DEC-Day 4 - (Wed) - Tiberias/ Cana/ Nazareth Holy Eucharist at the Church of annunciation “And Mary said, Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your nuns and assist with projects of the day. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the evening you will assist word” We head to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed the first miracle – changing water into wine at the wedding feast. Here, we’ll a Cuban cultural demonstration. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) invite couples to renew their marriage vows. Continue to Nazareth, Celebrate Holy Eucharist at the Church of Annunciation, visit St Joseph workshop. We return to Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
07 Dec-Day 5 - (Thurs) Mt Tabor/Mt Beatitude/Capernum/ Sea of Galilee/Tabgha
We drive to Mount Tabor, celebrate Holy Eucharist at the church of Transfiguration, Visit Mt. of Beatitudes the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)
May 25, 2018 (Friday – Day 4) Havana, Cuba You will have mass at the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. After mass, you will continue to assist the nuns. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. This evening in Havana, we will plan an exciting tour of the historical complex of Castillo del and La Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana. If the timing and weather conditions permitted, you will witness the special nightly cannon at the fortress. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
08 DEC-Day 6 - (FRI)-Jordan valley/Jericho/Bethany/Jerusalem
May 26, 2018 (Saturday – Day 5) Havana, Cuba Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. After, you will visit the Abel Santamaria School for the blind, located on the grounds of an old military base. The school aims to integrate the children into mainstream schools as soon as the child is ready through an outreach program which continues to support children at their secondary schools. You will spend time meeting the students 09 DEC-Day 7 - (Sat) - Jerusalem (old City) - Via Dolorosa and teachers. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Cintio Vitier Community Project Center, where arts Holy Sepulcher Church “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place of a skull, which was called in Hebrew Golgotha” Enter the old city of Jerusalem, Sing a hymn in the Church of St Anne and view the pool of Bethesda. Visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Programs of all types including painting, ceramic and dance hosted. You will learn about this community project and hear from Lithostrotos, where the soldiers played the Game of Kings, and Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) to the the director of the program, Pedro Pulido. End your day with a panoramic drive through Modern Havana riding in old classic cars holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the tomb of Our Lord. This afternoon drive to Mount Zion, from the 1950’s. Be sure to have your camera ready for this unique experience. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Drive the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest inhabited city in the world. View the Mount of temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert. Visit the ancient ruins of the wall. Drive through Wadi Welt to view St George’s Monastery. Continue to Bethany celebrate Holy Eucharist, and then visit the tomb of Lazarus. Arrive in Mount Scopus; enjoy the first view of Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at Notre DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
to visit the upper room, revered as the site of the last supper. Then survey the Dormition Abbey’s, St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME Vatican Hotel (BB.D)
10 DEC-Day 8 - (SUN) - Mount of Olives/Gethesemane/Bethlehem/New City
Holy Eucharist celebration at the Church of all nations Main altar Arrive at the Mount of Olives and enjoy the beautiful view of Jerusalem. Visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit Church”God wept “& walk the Palm Sunday road to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of all Nations. This Afternoon drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name the whole world recognizes ,visit the Church of Nativity, the manger, Church of St Catherine, The Grotto of St Jerome, and the shepherds fields. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB ,D).
May 27, 2018 (Sunday – Day 6) Havana – Las Terrazas – Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. Then you will be transferred to Las Terrazas for a tour of the community. Visit the neighborhoods, their schools, artists and community projects in the area. You will then continue to Vinales. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check in and rest. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
May 28, 2018 (Monday – Day 7) Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Vinales. Then you will have a sightseeing Visit the Western Wall , the only part of the Herodian temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. We drive to Dead tour. There is an opportunity to visit a Tobacco Farm and learn how to expertly roll a cigar. You will Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s also have the chance to visit an interesting site called the Prehistoric Wall and to take a Boat Ride fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem Overnight Notre Dame Vatican Hotel (BB,D) through underground caves known as The Indian Caves. Then visit Finca Agroecolgica El Paraiso 12 DEC-Day10 - (TUE) Jerusalem New City where you will have lunch. After you will visit the gardens with the breath-taking views. Return to the hotel where you will have Return to the new City, Including the Temple Model to see a scale model of Jerusalem as it was during the time of Jesus. Here we will have a dinner. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 11 DEC-Day 9 - ( MON) - Jerusalem/Dead Sea/Qumran/Masada
better understanding between old and New Jerusalem. Next to Ein Karem, birthplace of St John the Baptist, visit the Visitation church where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat Overnight NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)
13 Dec-Day 11 - (WED) Jerusalem/TLV/LAX
Breakfast rest of the morning Free time early PM dinner has to check out from the hotel, around 8:30 PM flight from TLV/ LAX in the 13 Dec flight depart TLV at 1:00 Am Dec 14,2017 ( end of Service )
May 29, 2018 (Tuesday – Day 8) Vinales – Havana – Los Angeles Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home as your trip comes to an end. (Meal: Breakfast)
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US gov’t vows to return church bells but unsure when
The United States is committed to returning three church bells seized by American forces as war spoils from the Philippines more than a century ago, the U.S. ambassador said Tuesday, Sept. 5, raising the prospects of a resolution of a thorny issue between the allies. Ambassador Sung Kim said the two governments have discussed the return of the Balangiga bells, named for the Philippine village from which they were taken in the early 1900s. he said in response to questions from reporters that the U.S. is “deeply committed that the bells are returned to the Filipino people,” but that he could not specify when that would happen. HAND IN HAND. President Rodrigo Duterte joins in the raising and waving of symbols during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Filipinos revere the Balangiga (ASEAN) Business Awards at the Solaire Resort and Casino Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City on Wednesday, September 6. The symbolic gesture and the singing of the song ‘Hand in Hand’ signifies unity and reinforcing the slogan of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council dubbed ‘Prosperity for All’. Malacañang photo by Richard Madelo
Marcos camp says ‘fight not over... PAGE A1 lamation of Bongbong Marcos.” The former senator’s camp, however, stressed that the “fight is not yet over.” “The ball is now rolling, the protest is now on its way. It’s wrong to say that the protest has been dismissed. It’s wrong to say that there was a full victory on the part of the other camp,” Garcia told ANC’s headstart. he claimed that they have sufficient evidence to prove that “more than 51 percent of the voters were not the ones who voted on election day” in Basilan, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao. “The Supreme Court merely set aside our motion to conduct the so-called technical examination. We will be able to prove that people who voted were not the registered voters because they were not the ones who signed on election day,” he said. In June 2016, Marcos filed an electoral protest against Robredo before the SC after she won the seat by a slim margin. Robredo won the position by only around 263,000 votes more than Marcos. Marcos filed three causes of action in his protest. In his first cause of action, Marcos called on the SC to declare all certificates of canvass used to proclaim Robredo’s victory as “authentic.” Questioning the “flawed” AeS, the former senator also claimed that the Smartmatic vote-counting machines (VCM) used for the automated polls lack “demonstrated capability.”
But in a resolution dated August 29, the high court junked Marcos’ first cause of action, deeming the hope to nullify the integrity of the 2016 polls as “meaningless and pointless.” “Allowing the First Cause of Action to continue would be an exercise in futility and would have no practical effect,” PeT said in its decision made public on Tuesday, September 5. “even if [the] protestant succeeds in proving his first cause of action, this will not mean that he has already won the position of vice president as this can only be determined by a manual recount of all votes in all precincts,” it added. Several SC justices previously expressed apprehension over the possibility that the former senator’s electoral protest may put the entire nation’s election result last year into question. In his second cause of action, the former senator asked for the manual recount of votes in 36,465 clustered precincts in 22 provinces and five cities. Areas include Cebu, Leyte, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Masbate, Zamboanga Del Sur, Zamboanga Del Norte, Bukidnon, Iloilo, Bohol, Quezon, Batangas, Western Samar, Misamis Oriental, Camarines Sur, 2nd District of Northern Samar, Palawan, Sibugay, Misamis Occidental, Pangasinan, Isabela, Iloilo City, Bacolod City, Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City and Zamboanga City. In his third cause of action, Marcos also sought the nullification of the vice presidential votes
in Lanao del Sur, Basilan, and Maguindanao due to alleged occurrence of “traditional” modes of cheating, such as vote buying, pre-shading, intimidation and failure of elections, among others. “The SC merely said if the party is able to prove 51 percent of the voters were not the ones who voted or there was massive fraud, irregularity then that may result in the nullification of the results in all of these precincts or areas,” Garcia added, citing jurisprudence from the last election. In its resolution, PeT gave Marcos five non-extendible days to provide at least three witnesses per clustered precincts on the three questioned provinces. “The Tribunal reiterates its directive to protestant [Marcos] to submit a new list of witnesses for the third cause of action by limiting the number of witnesses to three per clustered precinct and already identifying the concerned clustered precinct, within non-extendible period of five days from receipt,” the PeT said. “Protestant’s failure to do so will be deemed a waiver of his right to name and identify his witnesses and to present them during the reception of evidence,” it added. Robredo’s camp, meanwhile, welcomed the PeT’s ruling. “The ruling’s effect is that the integrity and credibility of the automated election system [have] been upheld by the Supreme Court,” Atty. Romulo Macalintal, lead counsel for Robredo, said in a statement.
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bells as symbols of their long struggle for independence. The bells gave the signal for insurgents to attack American soldiers who were occupying Balangiga after the U.S. took possession of the Philippines following the Spanish-American War. Talks about returning the bells have been a perennial issue in U.S.-Philippine relations. Kim said there was “an ongoing discussion within the U.S. government and the Philippine government to try and facilitate the return of these bells as quickly as possible,” but added there were some issues that needed to be solved in the U.S. “We want to return them,” he said. “I believe it’s the right thing
to do.” Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte asked the U.S. to return the bells in his state of the nation address in July, saying “they are part of our national heritage ... return it to us, this is painful for us.” Duterte has had an antagonistic attitude toward U.S. security policies while building closer ties with China and Russia. Two of the three bells are displayed at the F.e. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming. They are part of a memorial to 46 U.S. troops killed by Filipino insurgents in 1901. A third bell is with a U.S. Army regiment in South Korea. (Philstar.com with reports from Associated Press)
With the Census in peril, what will it take to ‘right the ship?’ by AnnA
ChAllet New America Media
The 2020 Census is off to a rocky start, with crucial preparations already delayed or falling to the wayside, largely a result of inadequate funding from Congress. Some of the nation’s oldest civil rights organizations, while fearing the worst, say there’s still time for Congress and the Trump administration to turn things around – but the window is “closing fast,” according to Vanita Gupta, the president and CeO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and human Rights. “We’re increasingly worried that the Administration and Congress have not prioritized support for a fair and accurate census, and that ill-advised decisions in the next few months will further erode the chance [for success],” Gupta said on a nationwide press call for ethnic media. “There’s really too much at stake to ignore the growing threat to a successful census,” she says. “Being undercounted in the census deprives already vulnerable communities of fair representation and vital public and private resources … The health and wellbeing as well as the political power of all the diverse communities in America rest on a fair and accurate count.” The consequences of a botched census would ripple across the country, affecting everything from funding levels in education and health care, to redistricting and the implementation of the Voting Rights Act. Data from the census is used to allocate resources for all kinds of services nationwide, from hospitals to transportation. “A good census is a sound investment in everything we hold dear in this country – a representative democracy, government and elected officials that are accountable to the people, and business and industry investment to drive economic growth, good jobs, and innovation,” says Terri Ann Lowenthal, former staff director of the house Census and Population Subcommittee, and now a consultant to the Leadership Conference education Fund. Lowenthal says that the 2020 Census is facing a “confluence of
unprecedented factors” amounting to “a perfect storm.” The Census Bureau’s prior director, John Thompson, resigned in May of this year, and the agency is “facing a leadership vacuum at a time when it is faced with critical decisions” on its methods and use of resources, according to Gupta. In addition to the nomination of a “qualified, non-partisan candidate to lead the Census Bureau,” Gupta says the agency is in dire need of more adequate funding. Lowenthal says that funding for the 2020 Census has been so far “insufficient, uncertain and frequently late.” Following the 2010 Census, Congress for the first time set a cap on census costs. The Census Bureau was directed to spend no more on the 2020 Census than it did on the 2010 Census; following that, says Lowenthal, Congress “shortchanged the census in annual funding bills throughout much of this decade.” Lawmakers later decided that the 2020 Census would in fact receive less funding than the 2010 Census. Congress failed to allocate sufficient funds in 2017, according to Lowenthal, and now the Trump administration has requested far less funding in 2018 than the Census Bureau needs, she says. As things stand now, there will be fewer than half as many temporary census takers in the 2020 Census as there were in 2010. “The window of opportunity to right this ship is closing fast,” says Lowenthal. But, she says, “Congress can demonstrate leadership by adjusting the budget cuts upward in advance starting this fall for the next three years.” The lack of adequate funding has already had real consequences, says Arturo Vargas, the
executive director of the National Association of Latino elected and Appointed Officials (NALeO) educational Fund. The Census Bureau failed to complete a Spanish-language test census that was planned for Puerto Rico, and is also failing to test and implement methods for more accurately counting people in remote and rural areas. The agency also won’t be testing certain local outreach and messaging strategies to get people to complete their census forms, Vargas says. Outreach strategies have become more crucial among some marginalized communities. “We know that there is increasingly a climate of fear among immigrant communities and immigrant households,” he says, due to the current political atmosphere and an uptick in anti-immigrant rhetoric under the Trump administration. “We have seen immigrant families opting out of participating in programs in which they have any kind of contact with government, including health care programs and school lunch programs,” says Vargas. “As a result we believe it will be even more difficult to encourage these immigrant populations to participate” in the census. Indeed, it’s groups like “people of color, low-income families, people with disabilities, and limited english proficient individuals” who would be most affected by an inadequately funded census, according to John C. Yang, the executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice. “Any gap in testing and any gap in discovering deficiencies” in methodology, he says, would have the greatest impact on these communities.
AFP, MILF join forces in fighting IS... PAGE A1 The joint operation is the latest tactic by the Philippine government to eradicate terrorism in the southern Philippines. According to Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, the BIFF had taken the opportunity “to build up their forces” while the government troopers were engaging with a separate faction of IS-pro militants in Marawi city. Dela Vega told Agence FrancePresse that the military’s alliance with MILF include “providing them with indirect fire support and even air support and other expertise.” he said that the mili-
tary is also feeding intelligence to the MILF in its fight. Dismissing the awkwardness of fighting alongside former long-time foes, he also claimed the joint-operation was a “winwin” situation for both the government and the MILF. “By and large the result has been substantially in our favor,” Dela Vega added. he, however, clarified that the military will not merge with the MILF fighting groups because they had “different operational tactics and procedures.” AFP Western Mindanao Com-
mand chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., meanwhile, lauded the MILF members for taking necessary measures against terror groups operating in Maguindanao. “We laud the liberation front’s leadership for supporting the government’s drive for peace to thrive in Mindanao against terrorism, criminalities, and drugs,” Galvez remarked. he went on to say, “We hope this call for peace would resonate and encourage more groups, organizations, and Filipinos to join the government in combating terrorism, and illegal drugs.”
Move to end DACA leaves some young... PAGE A3
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Marielena hincapié, executive director of the National Immigration Law Center, told reporters in a conference call on Tuesday that she expects DACA recipients to start losing their job-based health insurance. hincapié said she is particularly concerned about the effect of the president’s decision on the mental health of DACA recipients. “The need for mental health services will only be greater,” she said. At a protest in downtown Los Angeles Tuesday against the Trump administration’s decision, Jocelin Reyes made a similar point. She said DACA’s protections had helped put some young immigrants’ fears to rest, as they were able to get jobs, attend college or graduate school and come out of hiding. “A lot of people don’t understand how much fear we had” about being deported, said Reyes,
19, who is about to start school at the University of California-Santa Barbara. “Now that fear has tripled.” Another demonstrator, DACA recipient Maria Garcia, 22, said that losing her job as a hotel receptionist would mean the end of her job-based health insurance — coverage she relies on for physical therapy for a knee injury and any time she gets sick. “If they take away my DACA, I’ll get fired,” she said. “And then what will I do for health insurance?” State Sen. Ricardo Lara (DBell Gardens) said ending DACA would only hurt “the well-being of these American children who have played by the rules.” And they could end up having to go to costly emergency rooms for medical care. Lara, who led the charge to get all undocumented children covered by Medi-Cal, said one possible solution in California
would be to increase the age limit for Medi-Cal coverage for kids from 18 to 26. “We have to answer this call to ensure that our DACA students and workers are not pushed aside,” he said. The California Medical Association said that terminating DACA could indeed hurt the health care workforce. “Our nation’s health care system has the largest percentage of foreign-born and foreign-trained workers of any industry in the country. Already facing a national shortage of physicians and other health care professionals, revoking DACA could also undermine patient care and disrupt medical schools and hospitals for decades to come,” said California Medical Association President Ruth e. haskins in a statement. *** This story was produced by Kaiser health News, an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation.
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D ateline PhiliPPines Trillanes fires back, threatens to
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file ethics complaint against Gordon type and could have easily let these things pass so I could focus on the more important issues at hand,” Trillanes said in a privilege speech. “But in the spirit of justice and fairness, at the appropriate time, I’d be filing my own ethics case against Senator Gordon for his unparliamentary and unethical acts as senator and chairman of the blue ribbon committee,” he added. Trillanes said Gordon violated the Senate rules for refusing “the right of the minority to be heard,” as well as committing dishonesty for insisting that the phrase “committee de absuwelto” was made on record. The opposition senator argued that he made the comment while the session was already suspended. “Senate Rules or the Rules of parliament only cover words said or actions done while a
session or hearing is on-going. Conversations made while a session or hearing is suspended or MANILA — Senator Antonio adjourned are not covered. StateTrillanes IV on Tuesday, Sepments made in private or in the tember 5, said he will also file an Senator’s lounge are definitely not ethics complaint against Senacovered. Statements made in metor Richard Gordon and further dia are not covered,” he noted. expose the latter’s supposed Trillanes also accused Gordon “corrupt acts” as chairman of the of disregarding the objection of a Philippine Red Cross (PRC). panel member, and disrespecting A day before, Gordon filed an and insulting a member of the ethics case against Trillanes. This committee. was after Trillanes called Gordon’s The opposition senator said panel “committee de absuwelto” Gordon disregarded his objec(committee of exoneration) and tion of a member of the commitaccused the latter of “lawyering” tee, “insinuating that I was just for President Rodrigo Duterte peddling rumors when clearly, and his family during a hearing the information came from his on Thursday, August 31. resource persons.” In response to Gordon’s com“He further insulted me by plaint, Trillanes said he will also saying, ‘wag daw ako nagdadafile his own ethics case, citing the ldal nang hindi ko nalalaman (I former’s supposed “unparliamenshould stop talking about what I tary and unethical acts” during don’t know). If at all, the comite the proceedings. de absuelto remarks are but a “Normally I’m not the whining response to his ‘cockpit of chismis,’” Trillanes added. He likewise accused Gordon of “monopolizing” the flow of hearings by conducting a “monologue for hours.” Aside from filing an ethics complaint, Trillanes said he would also “expose” Gordon’s alleged anomalies in the PRC. Gordon, in response, lamented Trillanes’ attacks on the PRC. He insisted that he does not get “any salary or allowances” from the organization. “I am also a governor of the International Federation of Red Cross. I just appeal to the senators to be very, very careful. You may hurt me but not the movement,” Gordon remarked. He went on to say, “He can accuse me of corruption, that is his privilege, but do not drag Senator Richard Gordon followed through on his threat to file an ethics complaint against Sen. the Red Cross especially if there Antonio Trillanes IV for his “unparliamentary behavior” during the hearing of the Senate Blue is no proof. That is my humble Ribbon committee last week. Senate photo by Alexis Nuevaespaña request.” by Dana
SioSon AJPress
The autopsy of the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) and the probe of the National Bureau Investigation (NBI) also suggested that Delos Santos may have been executed. Police contended that the victim violently resisted arrest and pulled a gun on the officers. They also denied that it was the Kian who was seen being dragged in the CCTV footage. The hearing also touched the death of Carl Arnaiz, a 19-year-old who was killed by policemen in an alleged shoot-out along C3 Road in Navotas after allegedly robbing a taxi driver on August 18. The PAO autopsy results, however, suggested that Arnaiz was kneeling when he was initially shot, then was killed with more shots after he was lying on the ground. The victim suffered three gunshot wounds to the middle of his chest — one to the left side of his chest, and one to the back of his arm. Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa defended his
Lawmakers oppose immunity for Marcoses by JeSS
Diaz Philstar.com
MANILA — Opposition congressmen are against President Rodrigo Duterte’s proposal for Congress to grant the Marcoses immunity from criminal prosecution in exchange for returning part of their alleged ill-gotten wealth. “It is well settled in Philippine jurisprudence that criminal liability is not subject to compromise. In Chavez vs Presidential Commission on Good Government (Dec. 9, 1998), the Supreme Court voided the challenged compromise agreement insofar as it granted the Marcoses immunity from criminal prosecution,” Albay Rep. edcel Lagman said. “A culprit who returns what he has stolen is not liberated from criminal prosecution. It is a mockery of justice and an insult to the aggrieved sovereign people to exempt the Marcoses from criminal culpability in exchange for a few pieces of stolen gold bars or even for their entire ill-gotten hoard,” he said. “A criminal must pay for his crime despite his having belatedly returned the object of his transgression,” he said. He pointed out that the grant of immunity from criminal prosecution is the “hidden agenda” behind Duterte’s appeal for Congress to pass a law authorizing him to negotiate with the Marcoses for the surrender of their alleged ill-gotten wealth. Lagman’s opposition colleague
“It is well settled in Philippine jurisprudence that criminal liability is not subject to compromise. InChavez vs Presidential Commission on Good Government (Dec. 9, 1998), the Supreme Court voided the challenged compromise agreement insofar as it granted the Marcoses immunity from criminal prosecution,” Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said. Philstar.com photo
Tom Villarin of Akbayan said the Marcoses are facing 248 cases in the Philippines and abroad in connection with their wealth. He said the Supreme Court ruled in 2003 that all assets of the Marcos family that were beyond their accumulated legal earnings of a little over $300,000 were illgotten. He said the Marcoses were believed to have amassed an estimated P10 billion in wealth. “enacting a law giving immunity to the Marcoses would give a wrong signal that committing a crime will pay off in the end as justice is negotiable by the powers that be,” he added. “The premise laid by President Duterte that he ‘accepts’ the explanation by the Marcoses that
Sereno, Bautista impeachment raps move forward in PH House
IMPeACHMeNT complaints against Philippine Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno and Commission on elections (Comelec) Chief Andres Bautista have been passed on to the House Committee on Rules. earlier this week, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez referred the complaints to the committee headed by Majority Leader Rodolfo Farinas. The speaker has 10 days from receipt to refer an impeachment complaint to the Rules Committee to be included in the Order of Business The complaint will then be referred to the Committee on Justice within three days. The Justice Committee, on the other hand, has 60 days to conduct hearings and determine the sufficiency in form and substance of the complaints. Two impeachment complaints have been so far filed against Sereno. Twenty-five House members endorsed the impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Larry Gadon against the chief justice on Wednesday, August 30, for culpably violating the Constitution, betraying public trust, committing corrupt practices, and other high men from allegations of state- crimes. sanctioned killings. Among the grounds in the im“Wala kaming pinapairal na peachment rap include Sereno’s policy na malawakang pagpatay — mamatay man ako ngayon (We are not implementing a policy of extensive killings — even if I die today),” an emotional Dela Rosa reiterated during the hearing. The PNP chief also maintained Duterte has no orders to kill and accusing Senator Risa Hontiveros — who said there seemed to be a “pattern” of killings of drug suspects — and other critics of the administration’s war on drugs of being “closed-minded.” “I am grieving for majority of my men, ‘yung buhay nila [nakataya] tapos ia-accuse mo kami ng polisiya na ganoon. Masakit. Magpakamatay kami para sa inosenteng tao. Napakahirap naman sabihin na polisiya (I am grieving for majority of my men, their lives are on the line, then you will accuse us of such a policy. It hurts. We give up our lives for innocent people. It’s so hard to hear you say it’s a policy),” Dela Rosa added. (Dana Sioson/AJPress)
Duterte tells police to let media join drug raids to disprove killings PHILIPPINe President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, September 5 ordered the police to allow journalists to join law enforcers in their anti-illegal drug operations. Duterte issued the order to disprove the growing allegations of state-sanctioned killings in his heavily-criticized campaign against illegal drugs. “Now, this is an order: Bring the media and let them go first so that they can get the story from the beginning to the end. If you allow them in and the gunbattle is over, you’ll just say ‘Ah, they just dumped the guns on the suspects,’” Duterte said after a public hearing into the death of 17-yearold Kian Delos Santos. He added, “If you get shot, will you still believe that those (suspects) have no guns? Go ahead.” Delos Santos’s death sparked public outrage as witnesses gave testimonies and supported evidence, including a CCTV footage, that the victim was dragged in a dark alley and pleaded for his life during a police raid on August 16.
GOODBYE, CARL. Family, friends, relatives and supporters take Carl Arnaiz to his final resting place at San Roque Catholic Cemetery in Pateros on Tuesday, Sept. 5. Arnaiz was killed by Caloocan City police two days after the death of Kian Loyd de los Santos. Police claim Arnaiz, a former University of the Philippine student, robbed a taxi driver in Navotas and shot at law enforcers. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez
the wealth was not ill-gotten as they just held it in trust for us is a gross distortion of law and history,” Villarin stressed. ‘Crazy idea’ Another opposition congressman, Teodoro Baguilat Jr. of Ifugao, said the proposed grant of immunity “is a crazy idea that is not in any of Philippine legal principles.” “If the President’s idea pushes through, let’s abandon all concepts of law and justice. I can steal anything from anyone, make money out of it for a while, then offer to return and get amnesty for it. Heck, I may even be buried as a hero,” he said. “But this is more than just the money. It’s about justice and PAGE A7
“whimsical” and “excessive” purchase of a Toyota Land Cruiser amounting to P5.1 million, and the misuse of judiciary funds when attending local and foreign conferences. He also accused Sereno of failing to be truthful in declaring her statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN), as well as obstructing justice when she ordered Muntinlupa judges to not to issue arrest warrants against Senator Leila De Lima. A second impeachment complaint against Sereno was also filed by Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) founding chairman Dante Jimenez and Vanguard of the Philippine Constitution Inc. president lawyer eligio Mallari on Monday, September 5. It was endorsed by 16 House members. Jimenez and Mallari initially submitted an impeachment complaint earlier in August but no member of the House has endorsed the case at that time. On the other hand, three House members endorsed the complaint against Bautista. Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio and former Congressman Jacinto Paras filed the complaint on Wednesday, August 23, accusing Bautista of alleged culpable violation of the Constitution and
Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno
Comelec Chief Andres Bautista Inquirer.net photos
betrayal of public trust. The complaint stemmed from allegations of the Comelec chief’s estranged wife, Patricia Paz Bautista, that he had about one billion pesos of undeclared wealth in his 2016 SALN. (Dana Sioson/AJPress)
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OpiniOn
Political bickering
Features
SOME say that in any political landscape, opposition is good. Opposition is more prevalent in a democracy as it keeps current leaders on their toes, and makes sure that no one has absolute power. While democracy allows the people to put into power leaders who will represent their interests, the opposition is present to avoid any form of tyranny. The Philippines is no stranger to a polarized political environment. The country has been molded— and tested by—constant political bickering between the ruling party and the opposition, administration after administration. When asked how he would grade the first year of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, one of the president’s staunchest critics, said he would describe it as a “massive failure.” Trillanes said that the president has failed to fulfill many of his campaign promises and has yet to improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos under his leadership. The senator is particularly scathing when criticizing Duterte’s bloody anti-drug campaign. Trillanes believes that drug-related killings during police operations were state-sponsored and that the president has ordered police officers to kill drug suspects. “Remember, his war on drugs has already killed more than 10,000 people. And that’s even higher than the 9/11 casualties,” Trillanes said during an
interview with ANC’s Headstart, referring to the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the U.S. “Remember, he is the president of the republic and he launched this policy against illegal drugs and the policemen are being ordered to randomly kill Filipinos based on mere suspicion,” he claimed. The Philippine National Police (PNP) only accounts 3,451 drugs personalities who were killed in the government’s anti-drugs campaign from July 1, 2016 to July 26, 2017. The number does not include 1,398 cases that were drug-related but not statesanctioned; 828 deaths that were not connected to drugs; and 3,785 other killings that are under investigation. Over the weekend, Duterte called Trillanes a “political ISIS.” The president made this remark after Trillanes made fresh accusations against Duterte’s son Paolo and son-in-law Manase Carpio for their alleged involvement in smuggling. “He (Trillanes) does not have any talent. He does not even know the difference between a democrat and a member of a party. How can you expect [him to do good] when he lacked a knowledge of life?” the president said. “Bira nang bira, akala niya tama siya. (Trillanes is the political ISIS. He is ignorant, he just attacks and attacks,
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
thinking he is right).” While political mudslinging may seem typical in a democratic setting, the continuous trading of barbs between the president and the senator attracts scaremongers, ones who are pushing into this emotionally polarized atmosphere to convince people on their side rather than ignite political aspirations
and ideals. It is highly unlikely that these two will reach a compromise and decide to set aside their differences to fight together—instead of each other—for the good of the people. If this narrative continues, the ones who will lose are the Filipinos. (AJPress)
Are the ‘DREAMers’ now being held hostage for Congress to fund Trump’s wall and end family-based petitions? THEY are more than nation’s just statistics — these broken The Fil-Am 800,000 people brought immiinto the United States as Perspective gration kids by their parents or system. grandparents grew up in T h e this country not knowing legal that they did not have all basis the required immigra- Gel SantoS-ReloS for this tion documents to live execuin America legally until they had tive order was the “prosecutoto apply for a driver’s license or rial” discretion exercised by for college. They may have been both Republican and Democratic our kids’ classmates, or a volun- past presidents. DACA’s intent is teer helping out during times of to make “Dreamers” low priority calamity, or a soldier willing to in the use of the government’s make the ultimate sacrifice of of- limited resources so that those fering their lives for the freedom undocumented immigrants with and security of the United States. criminal records will be given top They are the “Dreamers,” who, priority in moving forward with for the longest time, had to live deportation cases. under the shadows for fear of beDACA is NOT amnesty as this ing deported out of the only coun- program only gives qualified try they know as “home.” That “Dreamers” a renewable twowas until former President Barack year period of deferred action Obama signed an executive order from deportation and eligibilin June 2012 called the Deferred ity for a work permit. Meantime, Action for Childhood Arrivals pro- many of these undocumented gram (DACA), which was meant youth have come out and have to help these qualified “Dream- become responsible, producers” who have not committed any tive members of society who pay crimes and do not pose harm and taxes, and aspire to serve their danger to America to come out of adoptive country in the academe, the shadows. This program was work force, and the military. meant to be a temporary solution However, on Tuesday, Sepas they waited for Congress to fi- tember 5, President Donald nally pass a comprehensive immi- Trump delivered a “gift” to these gration reform bill that will fix the “Dreamers” he claims he loves,
Opinion
RicaRdo Saludo PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte should convene the full National Security Council, with former presidents, congressional leaders, Cabinet members, and top defense officials in attendance. Reason: Filipinos here and abroad face grave threats of major attack. Most worrisome is Korea. The North’s claimed development of a hydrogen bomb small enough to go on missiles, has escalated the threat of military action by the United States, maybe in tandem with Japan and South Korea. And this time, China and Russia might actually let it happen. On the other side of the Philippines, the U.S. Seventh Fleet plans more “freedom-of-navigation” sailings near Chinese-reclaimed islands in the Southeast Asian Sea. (Let’s call it that, instead of competing country labels like West Philippine, North Natuna or South China.) That means more risk of conflict.
through an announcement made by Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Trump is rescinding DACA and has passed the “porcupine” of the job of “fixing” the “Dreamers’” problem onto Congress within six months. After this period and without any new legislation that will protect their status, these more than 800,000 men and women will have to be deported, including 5,050 Filipinos. As Balitang America reported, there are 22,000 undocumented Filipino youths who qualify for DACA. The Trump administration defends its decision contending that DACA is “unconstitutional”, an overreach of Obama’s use of executive power, even if it had been used by no less than Presidents Reagan, Clinton, and Bush before Obama. Even Trump’s own party was divided in its support of the president, with many siding with the Democrats that the decision to rescind DACA is cruel and inhumane, and was made by the president to make his followers who make up about 30-40 percent of Americans, happy and loyal. More than anything else, they argue that this is a politically motivated move that will do more harm than good to America. Former President Barack
Obama breaks his silence and issued a statement for the first time saying that “to target hopeful young strivers who grew up here is wrong, because they’ve done nothing wrong. “The action taken today isn’t required legally. It’s a political decision, and a moral question. Whatever concerns or complaints Americans may have about immigration in general, we shouldn’t threaten the future of this group of young people who are here through no fault of their own, who pose no threat, who are not taking away anything from the rest of us.” “It is precisely because this action is contrary to our spirit, and to common sense, that business leaders, faith leaders, economists, and Americans of all political stripes called on the administration not to do what it did today. And now that the White House has shifted its responsibility for these young people to Congress, it’s up to Members of Congress to protect these young people and our future. I’m heartened by those who’ve suggested that they should. And I join my voice with the majority of Americans who hope they step up and do it with a sense of moral urgency that matches the urgency these
young people feel. “Ultimately, this is about basic decency. This is about whether we are a people who kick hopeful young strivers out of America, or whether we treat them the way we’d want our own kids to be treated. It’s about who we are as a people – and who we want to be. What makes us American is not a question of what we look like, or where our names come from, or the way we pray. What makes us American is our fidelity to a set of ideals – that all of us are created equal; that all of us deserve the chance to make of our lives what we will; that all of us share an obligation to stand up, speak out, and secure our most cherished values for the next generation. That’s how America has traveled this far. That’s how, if we keep at it, we will ultimately reach that more perfect union.” Watching the news on Tuesday, however, revealed how some conservative Republicans with a hardline stance on immigration want to proceed with that “legislative fix” that may spare the “Dreamers” from deportation. On CNN’s “The Situation Room,” a Republican lawmaker told Wolf Blitzer that he would reconsider voting to give legal
status to these “Dreamers” if Congress would pass a bill in six months that will strengthen our borders, which should include a downpayment for the border wall, and that the “Merit based” bill which hopes to cut down LEGAL immigration by 50 percent by slashing visas for family based petitions to prioritize high skilled workers should also be part of the mix, among others. Are the “Dreamers” now being used as bargaining chips or hostages for Trump to get the funding for his border wall that he promised Mexico would be paying? Are the Dreamers’ life being used as leverage for the bill that will cut legal immigration which kills our dream of family reunification? Whatever your position is, tell your senators and representatives your stand on this issue. Do you want to save the “Dreamers” or do you think they should be deported? CALL NOW: 1-866-834-8040. Time is running out. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column 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
What if North Korea attacks the Philippines? And Threat No. 3 is already here: the Islamic State-driven terrorist attacks in Mindanao, with IS propaganda and funds luring dozens, if not hundreds of youths to Maute, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and other extremist gangs. That terrorist violence can spread northward. For intelligence, consensus and unity The NSC would help deal with these threats in three ways. First, it taps the collective experience and top-level knowledge of past presidents from their own security crises. Fidel Ramos fought in the 19501953 Korean War, faced Chinese encroachment in Mischief Reef in 1995, and studied US military doctrines at West Point. He also concluded the 1996 peace accord with the Moro National Liberation Front. Both Joseph Estrada and Gloria Arroyo faced ASG terrorism, and mounted major Mindanao offensives in Abu Bakr and Buliok. Benigno Aquino 3rd tussled with Beijing in the Southeast Asian Sea, forged peace with the onceseparatist Moro Islamic Libera-
tion Front, and ordered the Mamasapano police commando raid to kill Malaysian bomb maker Marwan in an area held by MILF and other rebels. Presidential intelligence includes contacts in foreign governments and forces, as well as adversary groups, plus the intimate details of past crises, including foul-ups and failures, which the Commander-in-Chief has the authority to divulge. The NSC can also help forge top-level consensus on positions and actions to be taken by the government and the security forces. The Council can help get the national leadership, including the opposition, on the same page regarding what’s best for the security and sovereignty of our nation, and the defense and welfare of our people, including tens of thousands of Filipinos in serious danger in Northeast Asia. This consensus minimizes divergence and division, which other states can exploit. Third and most important, the NSC meeting will project patriotic unity among national leaders, past and present — the indis-
pensable binding force the nation needs against security threats, including, God forbid, thermonuclear war. Defending our nation demands that all Filipinos from President to pobre stand as one, fighting side by side, sacrificing one for all, all for one. National leaders coming together to deliberate the defense of the Philippines and Filipinos, setting aside ambitions and rivalries, and deciding and doing the needful for our people — that is the story the National Security Council must show and tell to every mamamayan. In sum, the NSC must be the National Solidarity Council. Threats from northeast, west and south So, what will the Council talk about? First question: How bad can it get? The NSC needs to know from security wonks what threats we face, from external attack and nuclear fallout, to trade and travel disruption, and dangers to the 65,000 Filipinos in South Korea, more than 200,000 in Japan, and nearly 50,000 mostly
Fil-Ams in Guam. There’s the destruction from various kinds of nuclear weapons: incineration near the blast site, shock waves flattening buildings and homes, fatal radiation afflicting survivors, and fallout contaminating vast areas. If Clark and other military bases in Central Luzon are nuked, its rice becomes unsafe to eat. Plus: the very real threat of electromagnetic pulses generated by nuclear explosions in the air. EMPs can burn out electronic circuits, shorting cellphones, computers, electronically operated devices and vehicles, including ships, planes, and hospital equipment; and computer-controlled power, water and telecoms facilities. Modern life runs on electronics; EMP will unmodernize life. Clearly, terrorist attacks and island incursions pale beside nuclear nightmare. Whose side are we on? Next question: What should the Philippines do? Agencies are reportedly meeting to devise action plans in response to any impact Korean conflict may have on the country.
So far, defense authorities are treating the threat as a civil defense matter, not a military situation needing armed responses, with or without allies involved. But the NSC would need to know how the latter situation would be addressed. Plus: What responses may be needed to increased U.S. freedom-of-navigation operations, or fonops, in the Southeast Asian Sea. Should fishermen avoid certain routes? Should American vessels be allowed to pass and dock in the Philippines before or after fonops? And if there is conflict, will Philippine Navy ships and bases come to the Seventh Fleet’s aid? Which brings us to the third question: Where do we stand? Every conflict has opposing sides, of course, and nations need to decide which side, if any, they take. The NSC must deliberate that all-important issue. On the conflict pitting IS and other terrorist groups against civilized nations, including Muslim ones, the Philippines is clearly against the extremists. Hence, we have received U.S., Chinese and PAGE A7
The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.
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OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 8-14, 2017
A
Makabayan mulls ending alliance with Duterte ‘Imee, Pia to lead rival slates in 2019 senatorial elections’ by
by Jaime
PilaPil ManilaTimes.net
Gaea Katreena CabiCo Philstar.com
MANILA — A Makabayan bloc lawmaker on Thursday, Sept. 7, stressed President Rodrigo Duterte’s “anti-people, pro-imperialist and fascist” actions and policies have destroyed his alliance with the national democratic Leftist movement. “We are now inclined to recommend at the National Executive Committee meeting of Makabayan next week to pull out from the alliance with the Duterte administration,” Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said during a press conference at the House of Representatives. He said the bloc — represented at the House by Bayan Muna, Gabriela, Anakpawis and ACT Teachers and Kabataan — are ready to cut ties with the administration but they will wait until the meeting next week to discuss the matter with the coalition. Makabayan is allied with the administration PDP-Labanled supermajority bloc although its members have voted against the reimposition of death penalty and the extension of martial law in Mindanao. Both proposals saw massive support at the House of Representatives. “If ever the decision of Makabayan [is] to formally cut ties... the alliance with President Duterte... and if it will translate in its expression dito sa House, then understandable ‘yan. Magiging automatic ‘yan. Kaya kailangan naming pag-usapan. Hindi lang ‘yung mga kinatawan ang mag-uusap,” Anak-
Amid issues of the killings in government’s drug war and the rejection of Rafael Mariano and Judy Taguiwalo as secretaries, Makabayan bloc solons say they are ready to cut ties with Pres. Rodrigo Duterte but they will wait until the meeting next week to decide on the matter. Photo from Bayan Muna party-list Facebook page
pawis Rep. Ariel Casilao said. The lawmakers said various issues “have torpedoed” Duterte’s alliance with the left. These issues include the drugrelated killings under the government’s war on narcotics, the military and paramilitary attacks on Lumads and farmers, stalled peace talks and the Commission on Appointments’ rejection of Judy Taguiwalo as Social Welfare secretary and Rafael Mariano as Agrarian Reform secretary. Although the CA is a congressional body, the bloc believes that Duterte could have urged his allies to support his Cabinet secretaries. “President Duterte should be held accountable for his unfulfilled promises and gross violations of human rights and further impoverishing the people. The people demand a stop to all vicious attacks and will continue to press for meaningful change,” Zarate said. Zarate on Wednesday labeled the rejection of Mariano and Taguiwalo a “brazen maneuver
Lawmakers oppose immunity... PAGE A5 accountability for the crimes against the people during martial law — the killings, the torture, the suppression of freedoms and the degradation of our democratic institutions,” he said. “Is the President proposing that with one legislative fiat, everything will be forgotten?” Baguilat asked. For their part, Duterte’s leftist congressmen-allies joined the opposition in going against the proposed grant of immunity for the Marcoses. “We will oppose this move every step of the way,” Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate said. “Justice must be served and the Marcoses should be punished for what they did to our country and people during martial law. This is not just an issue of returning their ill-gotten wealth back to the Filipino people but of obtaining justice as well,” he said. Another administration ally, Harry Roque of party-list Kabayan, said a law granting immunity to the Marcos family alone would be unconstitutional, as it would violate the Charter’s equal protection provision. “We cannot legislate just to accommodate the Marcoses. We can probably legislate, put it in very generic language and made applicable to all who want to confess and who want to return stolen assets of the government, and give them a period. So this will be a form of amnesty,” he said. Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. of party-list Ako Bicol, who is a lawyer, said, “Congress cannot pass a law that can only be repealed later.” Why not? But House Minority Leader Danilo Suarez and Rep. Lito Atienza of party-list Buhay said there is no harm in trying, especially now that government needs help in pump priming the economy with President Duterte’s build, build, build program. “There is denial or admission (from the Marcoses). And in fairness to her (Imelda), sinabi niya sa akin na: hindi namin ninakaw iyan (she told me: ‘We didn’t steal it),”’ the former Manila mayor said, referring to the 7,000 tons of gold the family has reportedly offered to turn over to government. Atienza related the former first lady personally confided such information to him when he was still mayor. Her daughter, now Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, who was present, “told me not to believe her mother.” “I was having doubts at first, but when I saw her on primetime TV showing a roomful of gold bar certificates, then I believe her. But you (media) should ask her. Remember, 7,000 tons is more than those at Fort Knox which is just 4,500 tons (of gold).” Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Edgard Arevalo said the Marcoses have yet to formally coordinate with the military on their plan to celebrate the birthday of the late strongman at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. “I am not aware about it at this time, but of course we expect that we will be officially informed because while they (Marcoses) have every right to be at the LNMB, the place is maintained and secured by the military,” Arevalo said.
The Libingan is under the Army’s jurisdiction. “It’s their right to be at LNMB but this scheduled event is likely to trigger protest actions from anti-Marcos protesters and we don’t want that to happen right inside the place we consider as hallowed ground,” an Army officer who declined to be named said. From his burial place in Batac, Ilocos Norte, Marcos remains were discreetly flown to Manila and buried at the Libingan in November last year, catching protesters off guard. Citing a source close to former first lady, The Star reported that the Marcoses were planning to celebrate the centennial birth anniversary of their late patriarch at the Libingan. “It’s a family affair, plus friends and guests,” the source told The Star. Another source said among those invited are ranking government officials and foreign diplomats. It’s not clear if President Duterte, a Marcos ally who allowed the hero’s burial, is among those invited. Marcos, born on Sept. 11, 1917 in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte died in exile in Hawaii in 1989. His remains were brought back to the country in 1991. SC challenge For Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, any law aimed at settling the cases against the Marcoses and recovering their ill-gotten wealth would likely be questioned by the Supreme Court. He said the present setup with the PCGG is correct but the PCGG can deal only with individual cases against the Marcoses. He said there is already a system in the PCGG or in the justice system for settlements or plea bargains but they are on a per case basis. “Let’s say a law which authorizes the president of the republic to enter into a compromise agreement with the Marcos family under the following terms and then there’s an ending there, like that all pending cases shall be moved to be withdrawn by the executive branch, something like that,” Pimentel said. “Even if we pass a law, very specific for the Marcoses, it can still be questioned under that theory,” Pimentel said. Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said the PCGG, under the law and existing jurisprudence, is authorized to enter into compromise agreements. “Under the law, the PCGG is mandated to assist the President in the recovery of ill-gotten wealth. In pursuit of its mandate, the PCGG can legally enter into compromise agreements,” Drilon said. The compromise, he said, should be limited only to civil cases as in the forfeiture of illgotten wealth. He clarified that while there is clear jurisprudence establishing PCGG’s authority to enter into such agreements, the validity of the stipulations in such compromise agreements must pass judicial scrutiny. Drilon also clarified that he is not supporting any compromise agreement but is merely explaining PCGG’s authority.
of pro-U.S. militarists, landlords and neo-liberals.” “Ang pangunahing naglaglag kay Ka Paeng ay si President Duterte mismo. And, with this development, the reactionary character of the Duterte regime is now fully unmasked,” he added. “President Duterte should be held accountable for his unfulfilled promises and gross violations of human rights and further impoverishing the people. The people demand a stop to all vicious attacks and will continue to press for meaningful change,” Zarate said. Although Mariano and Taguiwalo are no longer in the Cabinet, former Gabriela party-list Rep. Liza Maza remains lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission and former Kabataan party-list Rep. Terry Ridon is head of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor. Former Anakpawis party-list Rep. Joel Maglunsod is also an undersecretary at the Department of Labor and Employment.
ILOCOS Norte Gov. Imee Marcos and Taguig City Rep. Pia Cayetano will likely lead rival slates in 2019 senatorial elections, according to a senator who will also seek reelection that year. Sen. Cynthia Villar, member of the Nacionalista Party and wife of former senator Manny Villar, said the Marcoses and Cayetanos plan to lead major coalitions leading to the two major elections — the 2019 mid-term polls and the 2022 national elections. “They will field candidates although they both belong to the same party,” the senator from Las Piñas City said. It will be a rematch of sorts for the Marcoses and Cayetanos. Former senators Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Alan Peter Cayetano, now Foreign Affairs secretary, clashed during the 2016 vice presidential race. But the two lost to Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo. Marcos is pursuing an election protest against Robredo. Imee and Pia are older sisters to Ferdinand Jr. and Alan Peter, respectively. Imee was representative of the second district of Ilocos Norte before becoming
Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos nd Taguig City Rep. Pia Cayetano
governor of the province in 2010. She is on her third and last term. Pia, who was senator from 2004 to 2016, now represents the second district of Taguig. Asked which group she would join, Villar said she would remain a member of the Nacionalista Party, which was taken over by her husband Manny following the death of the party stalwart, former vice president Salvador Laurel, in 2004. Aside from the Nacionalista Party, two more parties are emerging as major forces in the coming elections, namely the erstwhile ruling Liberal Party led by Sen. Franklin Drilon and the administration PDP-Laban Party
What if North Korea attacks the... PAGE A6 other foreign aid in the Marawi conflict, and are conducting joint sea patrols with Indonesia and Malaysia. But in Korea and the Southeast Asian Sea, we have yet to decide where we stand militarily and
ManilaTimes.net photos
led by Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel 3rd. On September 3, Drilon said the Liberal Party Senate slate would be led by Sen. Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino 4th and former Quezon representative Erin Tañada. The PDP-Laban slate will likely be led by Pimentel, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman Martin Diño and former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino. Other incumbent senators who will seek reelection in 2019 are Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito and Grace Poe.
geopolitically. In particular, will China would then treat the Philipwe allow U.S. forces to increase pines as a potential enemy, and rotations in our territory, and use put us in their missile sights. Philippine bases, as provided in Plainly, the Commander in the 2014 Enhanced Defense Co- Chief and the NSC have a lot of operation Agreement? fast thinking, talking and deciIf we will, then we stand with sion-making to do. (ManilaTimes. America, and North Korea and net)
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Getting to know Little Miss Scarlet Snow Belo by Bianca
Gonzalez Philstar.com
the Bergens. In Three Little Pigs, she wants to be the wolf. Why don’t you want to be the good characters?” Vicki laughs. he is barely two-and-aOn favorite food: “She has a half years old but she is already the most popular very sophisticated palate. She happy pill, stress reliever, and dose likes truffle pasta. I like this thing with black rice and cheese, and of good vibes in Philippine social she likes that too. Grilled cheese media, with 1.4 million followers sandwich. She loves cheese, it’s and growing—fast! here are 10 things you should know about the her number one thing.” On favorite books: “She loves adorable Little Miss Scarlet Snow the Bible! She has her own kids‘ Belo. Bible and hayden reads it to her,” 1. “Purple is her favorite Vicki says. “She knows the story of color, and her favorite animal is a cat. She’s very consistent about Jonah, Moses, Adam and eve.” 2. On what makes Scarlet that, purple, and cat,” Scarlet cry: “’Pag antok na tapos ayaw Snow’s dad Hayden Kho shares. matulog. Or if we don’t give her On favorite characters: “She the phone,” Vicki reveals. loves Peppa Pig. Now she likes “To be fair to her, she only dinosaurs. But also, she’s in a watches educational shows. But phase. InTrolls, she wants to be
S
my advice to you is, don’t even start,” Vicki explains. “We made a mistake. When she wasn’t really eating, we noticed that when there’s a phone, she’ll eat more. She got addicted. So now, that is her punishment when she is naughty, no phone.” “When she gets her phone, she won’t make me pansin na. So now, she has not had her phone for five days, and it’s been wonderful. When she wakes up, she sings, she talks, she makes conversation!” 3. On what they do when Scarlet gets in a fussy mood: “Everybody, out.” “everybody, out,” hayden shares; that’s what he tells everyone in the room. “Then we have a talk, as in a serious talk. ever since she was eight months old. I stoop down, look her in the eye, and usually magpapa-cute muna yan,” he laughs. “I want to video it nga, eh! her eyes turn so big, then tears well up kahit wala pang nangyayari, it’s so cute,” Vicki adds. hayden: “Do I ever get mad at you?” Scarlet: “Yes.” hayden: “When do I get mad at you?” Scarlet: “When I’m not eating” (shyly). “So I ask her muna why. Then I’ll remind her what the rules are. When you articulate it, you have to use the same syntax. So, no throwing things, no spitting out food,” hayden explains. 4. On their dream family vacation: “Africa! But probably when she’s bigger. She loves animals kasi,” Vicki says. “In her first year, we traveled
Scarlet Snow with her proud parents, mom Dr. Vicki Belo and dad Hayden Kho
almost every month,” Vicki says. Scarlet has been to Singapore, hong Kong, the U.S., the UK, Maldives, France, Italy, and UAe. “We go to Singapore a lot because we like the parks there! Scarlet loves anything nature,” she adds. 5. It was actually Hayden who first caught Scarlet’s head in the delivery room. “I got sick so the doctors would not allow me to leave,” Vicki shared. “[The surrogate mother’s] due date was Feb. 28, but the baby could come earlier. So I told hayden to go ahead [to the US] because I didn’t want Scarlet to be born without either of us there. Finally, I was allowed to leave March 2. And she’s so sweet, she really waited for me.” “The mom was putting on makeup pa,” hayden says about the surrogate while she was in labor. “The doctor was there but he was still sterilizing his hands. And I go, ‘I can see the baby’s head!’ Naka-gloves na ako ‘nun so I caught her head. I had practice in med school delivering babies, I did my internship at Fabella hospital where we would deliver 50 babies a day. It all came back!” hayden reveals. On holding Scarlet for the first time: “It’s one of those moments that you really cannot explain. It’s instant love,” hayden shares. 6. Scarlet was purely breastfed for nine months! “People were so kind! They were all donating breastmilk. Cristalle [Belo]’s batchmates, hayden’s batchmates. There was a driver just dedicated to picking up milk! When she’s older I want her to meet all her milk mommies,” Vicki says. “One time we were at a stopover in Singapore. She was almost one year old and mixed feeding already. her milk was in our suitcase checked in straight to Manila. So we bought this milk available there, and she wouldn’t drink it because she wasn’t used to that brand. And the wife of Kevin Tan, Michelle, said ‘O, I’ll offer a bottle!’ We are so amazed at how kind people are.” 7. Scarlet memorizes Our Father, Bahay Kubo, and the song Rainbow Connection. “Because of repetition,” hayden says. “She has playschool now, four hours a day. She has Mandarin classes twice a week, she also has reading classes and gymnastics once a week,” he adds. On the most surprising thing Scarlet has said: “Why was you angry at me last night?” hayden laughs. “For her, last night just
Scarlet Snow Belo
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Photos from her Instagram account (@scarletsnowbelo)
means before, or earlier. That morning, nagalit ako sa kanya because before going to school, she spat her food out. So she said to me, ‘Why was you angry at me?” On Scarlet’s sweetest moments: “My designated job is to get her milk at 4 a.m.,” Vicki shares. “So I prepare it, give it, then she goes, ‘Thank you Mommy, I love you.’” “Yes, its those random moments when I’m working, she’s walking around, and she’ll suddenly say, ‘I love you, Daddy,” hayden adds. 8. Hayden and Vicki have decided to home school Scarlet. “We were discussing during Bible study what school to send her to,” Vicki shares. They had already reserved a slot for Scarlet in a particular school, but are now reconsidering. “Its more important to us that Scarlet grow up to be a good person, we don’t want to produce an einstein, just a decent human being who will contribute and be a happy person. And also because we travel so much. And the world is a school,” she adds. “She wants Scarlet to be a dermatologist. I want her to be the Secretary General of the United Nations. A leader with a good heart, that’s my dream for her,” hayden smiles. 9. On putting Scarlet to sleep at night: “Daddy, can you carry me without crying?” Scarlet sleeps beside Vicki and hayden at night, but sometimes in her own room. “She has a specific position that she likes to
be carried in, tapos she’ll say, ‘Yaya Nits, Yaya Nits’ and then she’ll cry. She just really cries before sleeping. She got used to that. So I would tell her, ‘I will only carry you if you don’t cry.’ So that’s why she says, ‘Daddy, can you carry me without crying?’” hayden shares. “At 8:30 p.m., the room is dark na. We can continue talking, pero ang rule lang, dapat nakahiga na kami. Haba ng kwentuhan namin, minsan hanggang 10 p.m.! Masarap naman yung kwentuhan.” he says. 10. On the most important value they want Scarlet to grow up with: “Fear of God.” “To be God-fearing, not fear as in fear, but reverence,” hayden says. “She prays before eating and sleeping but she doesn’t fully understand yet. I explain to her, ‘God is someone you cannot see, but he’s there. Like the wind, can you see the wind? You cannot see it, right? Can you see the air?’ eventually she will be asking questions. If we don’t give her answers, she will be getting them from somewhere else, so might as well kami na ang magturo.” “She has no idea she’s famous, which is great. But she does have the attention of everyone at home because she’s the only baby. She remembers people’s names, that’s her charm,” Vicki says. hayden adds, “And every morning she does a roll call, she’ll say hello to the guards, to the houseboys, the yayas, and she asks everyone, ‘Are you happy? You, are you happy?’”
Celebrity chef Andrew Zimmern calls Cesar Montano asks James Franco to visit PH Filipino food ‘America’s next big trend’ by Ricky lo Philstar.com
AWArD-winning American chef and TV host Andrew Zimmern has praised Filipino food anew as his new video explaining why Filipino food is “America’s next big trend” goes viral on social media. In the video by Tech Insider and Business Insider, Zimmern said he has been telling people for years that Filipino food “will get more and more popular because of the variety
of ingredients and the european techniques found in Filipino cuisine.” According to him, America has been experimenting on cuisines from different ethnicities in the past three to four decades and Chinese, Thai, and Japanese food already had their season in the sun in America. It is therefore FIlipino food’s time in the spotlight. “Their (Filipinos’) use of acidity,
the quality of their food has the best of Asian cuisine and the best of sort of what happens when really good Asian food, island nation food brushes up against Spanish culture,” he expounded in the video. he said the Spanish has colonized the Philippines for almost 500 years (actually, it is over 300 years) at one point, “so the influence is heartfelt.” he thinks people are going into pre-colonial foods because Americans are now in love with pre-colonial foods from Mexico. “Filipino food will help contribute more diversity into America’s world system,” he espoused. It was in 2012 when the host of “Bizaare Foods with Andrew Zimmern” first said Filipino food will be the next big thing in America. The new video, so far, has over two million views, 8,000 shares, and 11,000 likes on Facebook. It has reaped mixed reactions among local and foreign netizens. Some said Filipino food is too salty, sweet or greasy to be the next big thing in the US, while some praised it for being healthy because it involves a lot of vegetables. To fuel Zimmern’s claim, some Filipinos commented that they want to go to America right now and put up a “turo-turo” or a This screenshot from “Bizaare Foods with Andrew Zimmern” shows the American TV host “jollijeep.” (Deni Rose M. Afinidadsampling Filipino food. Philstar.com photo Bernardo/Philstar.com)
A CLOSe friendship developed between Cesar Montano and James Franco while they were shooting the 2005 hollywood movie “The Great raid” (with Joseph Fiennes among their co-stars) for several weeks in the jungles of Australia. “I can’t forget when we were at a boot camp for two weeks,” Cesar recalled to Funfare. “That was before the shooting started. It was winter. One day, James and I were tasked to look for tick on each other’s head. We were partners. Luckily, we didn’t find any. We hadn’t taken a bath for two weeks and we could smell each other, hahaha!!!” Cesar’s memory was refreshed when I told him that I was going to New York City to interview James for ”The Deuce,” an eightepisode original drama series which premieres on Monday, Sept. 11, on hBO Go starting at 9 a.m. simultaneously with the U.S. debut. (While you are reading this, Your Funfarer should be having a one-on-one with James and co-star Maggie Gyllenhaal, along with the creators David Simon and David Pelecanos of the series directed by Michelle MacLaren. More on them in future issues.) Titled after the local slang for New York’s fabled 42nd Street, “The Deuce” chronicles that moment in time when sex went from being a back-alley, brown-paper-bag commodity to a billion-dollar universal attraction in American life, a moment when ground zero for the earliest pioneers in the flesh
James Franco was nothing but praises for Cesar Montano, with whom he worked on the 2005 Hollywood movie The Great Raid. ‘He’s a very serious actor,’ said James of Cesar, ‘and a very, very nice guy.’
trade was the midtown heart of the nation’s largest city, the New York’s Times Square. In episode 1, James is introduced in dual roles as brothers Vincent and Frankie Martino, one a double-shifting bartender with two kids and a wayward wife in Brooklyn, and the other an insouciant gambler with piling mob debts. They navigate their way through the rough-and-tumble world of 1971 Time Square. While Vincent plots ways to improve his situation and pay off his brother’s debt, he crosses paths with other midtown denizens including two veteran hookers (one of them Candy, played by Maggie), young streetwalkers, smoothtalking pimps as they ply their trades under the not-so-watchful eye of the NYPD. It’s a demanding role fit for Cesar who will surely enjoy
watching how his good friend James will tackle it. Since “The Great raid,” the friends have gone a long way. Cesar resumed doing action flicks back home and then starring in TV soaps, and is now head of Tourism Promotions Board (TPB). James went on to get bigger breaks — as the titular role in the James Dean biopic that won him a Golden Globe Best Actor in a Motion Picture Made for Television and a nomination for an emmy and a Screen Actors Guild Award; playing the villainous harry Osborne in the Spider-Man franchise and myriad other characters, while pursuing a course in english (specializing in fiction-writing) at UCLA. “James is a committed and passionate artist,” noted Cesar, “and a good man, too. I knew that he would go a long way and certainly leave a huge mark in the industry.” When Funfare interviewed James in 2007 during the SpiderMan junket in Japan, I asked him about his impression of Cesar. “he’s a very serious actor,” said James, “and a very, very nice guy. Before we began filming Great raid,we had to do two weeks of boot-camping training in the wilderness with other actors playing soldiers. Cesar is a very sweet man. I heard that he’s running for a public office.” (Flashback: Cesar did run not just once but twice, first for senator and then for governor of Bohol, but luck was not in his favor.) “I smile when I remember that boot camp,” added Cesar. “We would jog five miles every Continued on Page 3
Alden Richards looks forward to 3 working with Maine Mendoza again Maxine Medina gives acting a try september 8-14, 2017
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to reality. I agreed because I really want to give justice to the role.” With Alden in “Ala-ala” is his The two days of rest that Alden friend and co-kapuso actor Rocco Richards had in Paris have done him Nacino. he is just so thankful that good. he looked much better upon he is doing the special with Rocco arrival than leaving early Saturday because they get to help each morning (Sept. 2) last week to other, especially in very difficult attend the much talked-about scenes. wedding of celebrity doctors Vicki As he finishes “Ala-ala,” Alden Belo and hayden Kho. With his colds is also busy preparing for his new and hoarse voice gone, Alden is movie with Maine Mendoza, which ready to jump back to work. requires intense physical training. Besides hosting “eat Bulaga,” They do boxing, muay thai and GMA News TV’s Martial Law special other types of martial arts. “Ala-ala” is waiting for Alden to Their director, Mike Tuviera, shoot his remaining scenes. This is however, has one rule with regards one project that the actor is very to Alden and Maine’s training. Alden Richards excited about, especially after “Bawal kaming magsama sa Photo from his Instagram account meeting the real life character he training,” he revealed. “Direk Mike portrays. time until I read the script of Ala-ala.” made that rule because when we’re “My role is that of Bonnie Ilagan, On his first taping day, Alden in the gym together, we don’t get a writer who is still very active in his was asked to do scenes that were anywhere. Wala kaming ginawa ni profession today. he was a victim very physical. “Mahirap siya,” Alden Maine kundi magkulitan!” he added of human rights violation during admitted. “Not only physically but laughing. Martial Law,” he shared. emotionally and psychologically as Closer than ever before, The special taught Alden many well. It was like experiencing what Showbuzz asked Alden where things about this dark period in Mr. Ilagan went through. The torture he thinks their friendship is really the country’s history. “It happened scenes were very realistic that after headed. before I was born. I have heard doing the scene, pakiramdam ko, he replied with a sweet smile. about Martial Law but I didn’t know talagang na-torture ako. We did “everything naman has the right what really happened during that them in a way that was very close time.”
by Lhar Santiago ManilaTimes.net
aLpad ManilaTimes.net
and David Foster. Pempengco called Zyrus a liar in one of her interviews after MORe than a week after the the show aired, and even said she controversial “Malaala Mo Kaya” is considering filing a libel case episode on the life of singer against her daughter. Charice Pempengco, now known Nevertheless, Zyrus seemed as Jake Zyrus, the latter faced the unaffected by the possibility. press looking happy and content “I know some of you won’t to promote an upcoming concert. understand, but I know my family The artist’s first bearing a new better—I know it will take more name and look, it is aptly titled, “I am Jake Zyrus” to introduce him to time but we’ll be fine,” Zyrus told the press. the world. “Mahirap kasi i-explain yung Zyrus was in high spirits on relationship namin. Basta ang sa Tuesday, Sept. 5 despite the fact akin po, if I reach out to them, I that mom Raquel Pempengco don’t think people would notice. I cried foul over her portrayal in won’t share it on Facebook. In fact, the drama anthology, which there we so many instances [in the quickly became a sticky issue for past] where I reached out to them the artist. In the “tell-all,” Zyrus but it was never known by the depicted Pempengco (played by public and I prefer it that way,” the Dina Bonnevie) as a mother who 25-year-old singer added. physically and verbally abused Zyrus then confessed that Charice. It will be remembered while it was surprising to hear that Charice had a promising that grandmother Tess Relucio international career with the backing of bigwigs Oprah Winfrey agreed on the details of the
ManilaTimes.net
MISS Universe Philippines 2016 Maxine Medina is now a movie star. She started shooting the movie “Spirit of the Glass” under Octo Arts Films, directed by Jose Javier Reyes. She stars with Benjamin Alves, her boyfriend in the movie, Janine Gutierrez and Daniel Matsunaga. Acting is a new experience for Maxine, and is grateful to have Direk Joey. “he guides me in everything during the shoot. he is so patient with me. I’ve already learned a lot from him. The movie that we’re doing is a horror so medyo mabigat and my co-stars have been acting for long I really have to do my best.” Among his co-stars, Maxine is closest to Ben because both of them are under the management of Jonas Gaffud. he has nothing but praises for Maxine, and said after she calmed her nerves, “She’s a Miss Universe Philippines 2016 Maxine Medina Photo from Instagram/@maxine_medina natural.”
Cesar Montano asks James Franco...
From Page 2 morning. We were trained to live in the jungle and taught how to stage an ambush and other tactics. We addressed each other not by our real names but by the names of our characters. I played Capt. Juan Pajota, a guerilla, and James played Capt. Prince.” After the shoot, James sent Cesar a letter (being reprinted here from that 2007 story) that read: Cesar, I wanted to let you know what a joy it is to work with you. Your reputation preceded you and you have done nothing but fulfill the excellent name you made for yourself. You and the rest of your squad are a pleasure to work with and a pleasure to be around. I appreciate greatly your work ethic Despite some family drama he’s currently and the wonderful, easy spirit that each of you possesses. I am facing, Jake Zyrus remains in high spirits. Photo from his Instagram account honored and grateful to be on this episode—despite their word war movie with you. in the past—it only showed that “I’m looking forward to working no matter what happens in their with James again,” said Cesar. “I family, they are going to work it have three offers for him: 1). to out. host/narrate a documentary series ‘Great experience’ for Discovery Channel, to be shot Zyrus also clarified that the in the Philippines; it will showcase “Maalala Mo Kaya” episode was our country’s tourist destinations; never intended to put anyone in 2). I’m inviting him to do an ocular bad light. tour in the Philippines which could “What I really wanted was be a perfect location for his next Continued on Page 5 movie, The Bells of Balangiga,
Jake Zyrus focuses on his ‘coming out’ concert by ChriStina
by Lhar Santiago
which he’s directing; I can be his second unit director; and 3). To star in a romantic-comedy with Manny Pacquiao, Asia’s Next Top Model Maureen Wroblewitz and Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, which is about a Filipina tourist guide helping a broken-hearted traveler enjoy his stay in the Philippines.” Then, addressing James, Cesar
added, “It was indeed such an honor working with you, Capt. Prince.” Asked what his message was to James, Cesar texted this: “Please tell James that anytime he wants to come to the Philippines, I will assist him and show him around. I will sponsor his visit.” (Signed Capt. Pajota).
Michael Cinco reveals secrets ‘Mulawin vs. Ravena’ cast bid fond farewells behind Vicki Belo’s wedding dress september 8-14, 2017
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AFTer months of keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, GMA network’s well-loved fantasy series “Mulawin vs. ravena” is coming to its final week after tonight’s episode as lead stars share their sentiments on soon missing the show. The network’s Kapuso Drama King Dennis Trillo, who reprised his role as Gabriel says he is grateful to have worked with such talented and professional artists. “Mami-miss ko siyempre ‘yung samahan namin every day on taping. Masaya ako na iba’t ibang henerasyon yung mga nakatrabaho ko dito at swerte ako kasi talagang prepared sila at nakita ko yung passion nila, kung gaano sila kaproud.” He adds that they’re glad to have made a positive impact on their viewers. “’Kahit magtatapos na, ‘yung mga ginawa namin, yung mga na-achieve namin, lahat ng taong napasaya namin, masaya kami dun.” Bea Binene or Anya in the series highlighted lessons she learned. “Challenging ‘yung role pero kahit mahirap ‘yung ginagawa mo, kailangan masaya mo siyang gagawin. Natutuwa kami sa pagsuporta ng mga tao and here, everyone feels like a family to one another.”
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by C.
Mendez Legaspi Philstar.com
In what is perhaps the most glamorous gathering of Pinoys in Paris, the wedding of Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho was held at the American Church along the Quai d’Orsay, with an opulent reception at the Palais Garnier. The celebrated and controversial doctors showcased to the City of Love all that is beautiful and fashionable from the Philippines. Silver screen and society stars were present to toast for the lovers, all of them dressed
Binene’s on-screen partner Derrick Monasterio, aka Almiro, is also grateful for the immense support they receive every night. “Nakakataba ng puso ‘yung mga nakikita namin sa social media na talagang sinusubaybayan nila yung story tsaka naaapektuhan sila sa characters namin. Malungkot dahil matatapos na pero masaya dahil sinubaybayan nila.” Kiko estrada, who plays the role of rafael, also said that he will miss the entire staff. “everyone, from the staff, the crew, the cast, parang pamilya na kami dito and I will really miss
in their finest, befitting the world’s couture capital. But the highlight was, of
everyone. Yung experience na lahat kami dito may teamwork, who wouldn’t love that ‘di ba?” Meanwhile, the fight between good and evil and the war between the Mulawins and the ravenas intensifies as the final week ensues. With humans suffering in the hands of the ravenas as they grow stronger every day, sacrifices must be made as the Mulawins try to find a way to defeat the enemy. Mulawin vs. ravena’s final week airs from Septmeber 11 to 15 after “Alyas robin Hood” on GMA Telebabad. (ManilaTimes.net)
Carmina Villaroel returns to GMA by Lhar santiago
course, the haute couture gown of the bride. From his posh suite in a Paris hotel, couturier Michael Cinco shared insights on the most Instagrammed dress at the “Wedding of the Year” dubbed #aKhoandmyBeloved: “The wedding dress of Vicki Belo is in blush color made of French lace with silk thread baroque embroidery with French paillette, pearls and rose opal Swarovski crystals. It has a three-meter long train and it took me a thousand hours to create with 50 skilled workers,” Cinco explained in an exclusive interview with this writer. “The only requests she wanted was she didn’t like to wear a white or ivory-colored wedding gown and she didn’t want it to be heavy. She specifically requested the length on the front to be a bit shorter. But I convinced her if the length is short, it will make her look shorter,” Cinco said, most likely with a pout.
ManilaTimes.net
THe Sunday travel show “road Trip” signaled Carmina Villaroel’s comeback to GMA, after which she went right into taping for the primetime series “Super Ma’am” topbilled by Marian rivera. Showbuzz chanced upon Carmina on the set of the series who said, “I enjoy doing my character here. I play the role of Ceres, a mysterious woman na may malaking kinalaman kung bakit super ang powers ni Marian. Kung wala ako, slight lang ang powers niya!” More seriously, she added, “But what I’m really excited about is working with Marian for the first time. We’ve already taped a scene together and I can say na masarap siyang katrabaho. Mabait siya kaya hindi ka maiilang.” After her “road Trip” experience with husband Zoren Legaspi and their children Mavie and Casey, Carmina is looking forward to another stint in the show. “We really enjoyed doing it. A lot of people tell me that when they were watching us, wala raw kaming acting, no pretensions. I think that’s Carmina Villaroel returns to GMA via ‘Road really us—what you see is what you get, and we love that we get to Trip’ and ‘Super Ma’am.’ ‘ bond on a show that allows the public to see the Legaspi family.”
ManilaTimes.net photo
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Photos from Michael Cinco’s (@michael5inco)
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA
Angels among us “I think that someone is watching out for me, God, my guardian angel, I’m not sure who that is, but they really work hard.” - Mattie Stepanek
DO you believe in angels? I do. Most people do. The strong presence of angels in the various books of the Bible, especially during the birth of Jesus Christ attests to the role of angels in human history. The Angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would bring forth a son. Zechariah received a message from an angel. It was an angel that told Joseph to take Mary for his wife. It was a multitude of angels that told the shepherds where to find the newborn child while angels hovered above the stable during that wondrous night. It was also an angel that warned Joseph of a clear and present danger to the child Jesus. Herod, the unhinged, murderous king descended from a long line of power-mad monarchs, wanted to make sure no one stood between him and his throne. In haste, Joseph left with Mary and the child during the night after the Magi had left for a long and arduous trek to a town in Egypt some scholars
estimate to be 200 miles away where Herod had no authority to commit mass murder. You can bet a host of angels guided them in seeking refuge. Herod’s murderous rampage began when he realized that the Magi had tricked him and had taken a different route home ignoring his sly request to tell him of the child’s location. It is believed 14,000 innocent male babies from the age of two and below were killed in Herod’s most cruel, preemptive strike against this perceived threat to his kingdom. The holy family stayed safely away for years until the king died and the danger had passed. Did these holy innocents become cherubs, angels without wings? Do the millions of the unborn of our time the world over cut down by murderous abortionists become cherubs?
Health@Heart
Heart chelation: a scam
“extended” the use of these agents to include unclogging blocked arteries. Since all adults develop PhiliP S. ChuA, hardening of the arteries, to one Md, FACS, FPCS degree or another, sooner or later in life, and since heart attack What is Chelation therapy? and stroke are commonplace, Chelation Therapy is an financial greed and deception accepted treatment for poisoning have overcome some of these by many metals (like lead, “practitioners” (who may not even cadmium, arsenic, zinc, etc.) be licensed physicians) to go into and other toxic substances. this very lucrative business. These chelating agents “cleanse” Why does the FDa not ban the blood of these poisons. these chelating agents? Some unscrupulous healthcare Chelating agents are legitimate providers, however, are bilking the and good drugs indicated unsuspecting public prescribing for specific conditions: metal and giving chelation intravenous poisoning and toxicity from other shots “to unclog heart arteries,” substances. The issue here is that a claim that is false and without these chelating agents are being medical basis. used for a condition for which Which drugs are used as they are not indicated or effective. chelating agents? They are useless as far as dissolving Calcium disodium edetate, hardening of the arteries, or Dimercaprol, and Penillamine are unclogging arteries. some of them. Is there any drug that can Is this the “therapy” dissolve hardening of the arteries? advertised to unclog arteries? No. There is no known safe Yes, there are unscrupulous drug that can dissolve hardening individuals in the United States, of the arteries or unclog blocked Europe, Asia, and other parts of arteries. The blockages in the the globe (including the cities of arteries are so hard and usually Manila and Cebu), who victimize calcified like teeth or bone that the innocent public with claims to date, medical science has not that intravenous injections of these discovered any medication for drugs, which they call chelation it. In the recent meeting of the therapy, can unclog arteries to American College of Cardiology, prevent a heart attack and stroke. another study confirmed that These “practitioners,” who advertise chelation therapy for coronary that Chelation Therapy can dissolve artery disease is baseless, useless hardening of the arteries and and ineffective. therefore preclude the need for how about the enzymes angioplasty or open heart surgery, injected to treat acute heart charge exorbitant. In the U. S., attack? charges range from US$4000 These enzymes (streptokinase, $6000 for “the complete session.” urokinase, TPA, etc.), which how is chelation treatment cardiologists administer given? intravenously in the emergency The patients are given a series room or ICU when the patient of intravenous injections for so is diagnosed to have an acute many days. No one knows what heart attack that is 4 to 6 hours drug is actually injected — whether old, are substances that dissolve only plain saline or dextrose instead the solid but still soft blood clot of true chelating agents. In the that blocks the coronary artery U.S., this practice of using chelation causing it. These enzymes cannot therapy to dissolve hardening of the dissolve arteriosclerotic plaque or arteries is not approved by the Food hardening of the arteries. and Drug Administration (FDA) how do these “doctors” get and condemned by the medical away defrauding the public? community. There is no legitimate First, we do not know if only scientific proof or basis for the harmless saline or innocuous claim. Some physicians and doctors dextrose is the “drug” that is of osteopathy have lost their administered, in order not to have medical license for perpetrating this the possible side effects of true fraud. chelating agents. Secondly, public how did this practice come ignorance makes the consumer about? an easy prey, the reason we have It is easy to surmise that since decided to educate and forewarn chelating agents are really effective the public about this scam. Third, in the treatment of poisoning with both the lay and the medical metals and other toxic substances, communities have not organized and “cleanse” the blood, some themselves to expose and fight enterprising people conveniently these money-hungry charlatans,
Does God repurpose innocent souls upon their deaths to become angels themselves? There is a belief that souls are indestructible. If so, do souls get recycled back to be born at another time and place? Only God knows for certain. Angels were strong proactive characters when the story of humanity unfolded during biblical times. And while today, cynics, atheists and those on the dark side might argue that angels are figments of the human imagination, there are countless people who will brave the scorn of scoffers, fight back vehemently and attest to the very real presence of angels in their lives. (To be continued …) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com
and bring them to justice. how are patients adversely affected by this scam? Not only do unsuspecting patients lose their hard earned money for a treatment that has been proven by medical science as ineffective, but they are also deceived and given false hopes, which delay the proper diagnosis and treatment of their heart illness. Needless to say, this unwarranted delay could lead to worsening of the disease and a higher morbidity and mortality rate. We have heard of cases where patients have died as a result of reliance on this unconventional therapy and the delay in getting the proper treatment. So, what’s the best thing to do? In this age of modern and sophisticated medical technology, it is only prudent for all of us to safeguard our health by doing preventive measures and taking advantage of the scientifically proven and accepted convention of treatment. When needed, there is no substitute for a thallium stress test and heart catheterization in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease. For therapy, appropriately chosen medications, and/or angioplasty, or coronary bypass surgery are the proven effective management for coronary artery disease. The easier or quicker treatment is always more appealing, but consumers beware of these advertisements! If they sound too good to be true, chances are they are not true. Do not gamble your life away. The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities, and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com
Jake Zyrus focuses on his ‘coming out... From Page 3 for people to know that it’s really happening in real life,” Zyrus shared, pertaining to the struggles of transpeople coming out to their families and society. Nevertheless, Zyrus attested that sharing the story and actually acting it out was a great experience albeit challenging. “At first I couldn’t believe that they wanted me to portray myself. I asked, ‘Hindi ba pwedeng iba na lang?’ But I realized na gusto ko talagang makita ng tao na ako ang gagawa. So now, I can say that the emotions there were true. There were so many time na nag break
down ako sa set.” In the end, Zyrus believed the show served as a great means for healing. “It became my way to help myself din, na binalik ko yung sarili ko sa sitwasyon para makamove on ako.” Jake’s the name For now, Zyrus is exerting all efforts to promote the “coming out” concert on October 6, at the Music Museum. “I really don’t want to spill the beans to keep the suspense but it’s going to be a very special show because I will be able to finally express my real self,” Zyrus noted.
I Am Jake Zyrus will cover all genres, from pop to ballads to dance and even rock. But perhaps, one of the most talked about parts of the show will be Zyrus’ duet with the old Charice. This idea was floated on social media and went viral for some time. Now, Zyrus is gamely taking the challenge. “Magdo-doble kara po ako,” Zyrus said in jest. Turning serious the artist explained how the show’s musical director will use the available technology and elements to showcase both remarkable voices. Overall, Zyrus said the
september 8-14, 2017 www.asianjournal.com
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‘Enhancing Your Aging Experience’ Conference Sept. 29-30 at CSUF A two-day public conference Sept. 29-30 at Cal State Fullerton will focus on how to create an aging experience that is positive and fulfilling. The fourth annual CSUF Center for Successful Aging event will be held in the Kinesiology and Health Science Building on campus at 800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton 92831. “Aging is a lifelong process, and we hope to encourage older adults and professionals working with older adults to take part in this program, as well as in how they live their lives to make the aging experience the best it can be,” explains Debbie Rose, director of Cal State Fullerton’s Center for Successful Aging. Rose noted that more than 43,000 adults ages 65 or older currently live in Orange County, “and that population is expected to nearly double by 2040.” (Orange County Older Adult Profile, 2016) Lynn Daucher, former assemblywoman and director of the California Department of Aging will discuss “Shaping our Future” and how to be a catalyst for enhancing the aging
experience at both a personal and policy level. She speaks at 9 a.m. Sept. 30. Daucher served three years as director of the Department of Aging. She currently serves on the board of directors for the Archstone Foundation and on the board of SeniorServ, a nonprofit supporting older adults and disabled persons. Christine Chow, director of community relations at Alzheimer’s Orange County, will present “Working Together to Create the OC Strategic Plan for Aging,” a 2016 countywide effort bringing together cities, the county, nonprofits, foundations and universities to evaluate issues pertinent to older residents and create an infrastructure to address their needs and provide opportunities for enhancing the aging experience. She is scheduled to speak at 10:10 a.m. Sept. 30. Koren Fisher is associate director of the CSUF Center for Successful Aging and assistant professor of kinesiology whose research is related to physical activity in older women, health status in older adults, and class-based versus homebased physical activity. She will
Calendar of Events across
speak on “Enhancing the Aging Experience Through Physical Activity: Moving Your Way, Every Day!” at 2:10 p.m. Sept. 29. Elaine M. Rutkowski, professor of nursing at Cal State Fullerton, will share “Surviving the Workforce of Five Generations.” Rutkowski’s widely published studies focus on the U.S. obesity crises and the level of physical activities in families. Her remarks are scheduled for 1 p.m. Sept. 29. The full schedule and list of conference speakers is available online. The CSUF Center for Successful Aging conducts interdisciplinary research on issues related to healthy aging, provides professional training of students and health care practitioners working with older adults, partners with community agencies and organizations to provide innovative programming and services, and offers a range of such programs and advocates for affecting public policy relative to health aging and fall risk reduction. Additional information is available online, by email at successaging@fullerton.edu or phone at 657-278-7012.
America
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Liliwenos reunion in Las Vegas, NV Calling all Liliwenos living all around the world! There will be a three-day reunion in Las Vegas, NV starting with a picnic on Friday, Sept. 15 at Silverado Ranch Park. On Saturday, Sept. 16, it is a dinner/dance party at the Palace Station (2411 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89102) at 5 p.m. The attire is semi-formal and costs $50 / person. Souvenir t-shirts cost $10 regardless of size. Deadline of payment for both the reunion and t-shirt cost is August 31 to be sent to Ms. Nerri Monteagudo at 9252 Bronze River, Las Vegas, Nevada 89149. On Sept. 17, participants are free to explore the Strip and other Vegas activities. For more information, please contact Bob and Nerri Monteagudo at (702) 339-3838; Carmen P. Manguin (702) 526-8005; Loida Borgonos at (201) 654-5482; or Fred Polistico at (818) 527-3476.
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26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
18th annual Asian Small Business Expo in Alhambra, CA On Saturday, Oct. 14, the 18th annual Asian Small Business Expo will be held at the Almansor Court Conference Center (700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801), featuring free workshops, exhibitors, networking opportunities, and more! Jonny Hwang, founder of 626 Night Market, is the featured guest speaker with special guest, Jerome Horton, chairman of the California Board of Equalization. It is FREE to attend! The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. For more information, please visit http://www.apisbp.org/expo.html.
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26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park Save the date! The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
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NaFFAA to celebrate 20th anniversary in Washington, DC The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) turns 20 years old this year. This October, several events are being planned to celebrate this milestone, which coincides with the national observance of Filipino American History Month. They will culminate with NaFFAA’s 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 21. With its theme “NaFFAA 2.0: One Voice, Four Million Strong,” NaFFAA will recognize the legacy and accomplishments of the organization over the past 20 years, and highlight its comprehensive vision to unite and amplify the voices of the four million Filipinos living in the United States. “NaFFAA 2.0” represents how NaFFAA is honoring its past while forging a new forward-thinking and balanced approach in uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse Filipino American individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. To learn more about NaFFAA or to purchase tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala, please visit www.naffaa.org.
D EC E M B E R 27-29
Ateneo de Naga High School Class ’67 celebrates 50th anniversary in Naga City The Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU) High School Class 1967 is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2017 from December 27 to 29 with various activities lined up for its 153 alumni members. (ADNU is a leading Jesuit university in the Bicol region located in Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines). The activities include the publication of its 50th Anniversary Yearbook, a coffee table book which features the individual life stories of the class members after high school, tributes to their mentors, and various articles about school life in the 1960s. Also scheduled for the middle of the year is a golf tournament which — aside from fostering camaraderie — will essentially be a fund-raising activity for planned alumni projects such as a medical mission to a remote provincial town, scholarships, and donations for other worthy causes. This year’s reunion will be at the ADNU main campus in Naga City with various fun and commemorative activities lined up for the occasion. All batch members, wherever they are domiciled, including those residing in foreign countries, especially those in the USA and Canada, are enjoined to contribute their life story articles for the anniversary book as soon as possible, to participate in the various identified activities and outreach projects, and attend the grand homecoming in December. For coordination and for details about the events and activities, please email or call up any of the following batch members: Jojo de Jesus (email: jvdejesus6@yahoo.com; cell: 09772114750); Nilo Ezequiel (email: nilo.ezequiel0977@gma
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Ruffa Gutierrez excited by Angel Locsin’s return in ‘La Luna Sangre’
BeAUTY queen and actress Ruffa Gutierrez on Wednesday, sept. 6 took to Twitter her excitement for the return of Angel Locsin in primetime ABs-CBN fantasy series, “La Luna sangre.” Ruffa is the sister of Richard Gutierrez, who plays sandrino, the supremo vampire in the show. Locsin, who now plays political strategist Jacinta Magsaysay, only appeared in Thursday’s episode for about eight seconds, and yet already caused a stir among shocked netizens and fans who thought Angel is already dead in Movie icon Papa Piolo Pascual kisses the mother of all icons Nanay Socorro Ramos as he sings “Dahil Sa Iyo,” while guests wildly cheer and the series. get busy clicking. Philstar.com photo As such, the episode hashtag, Angel Locsin and Richard Gutierrez in a scene together on ‘La Luna Sangre’ ABS-CBN photo #LaLunasangreTheComing, in the show as a vampire who is Angel’s former love team immediately became the top slayer, he too is not sure if he partner. Fans of the #ChardGel trending on Twitter. will stay that way. even for his love team are indeed revitalized Many netizens and fans are by Millet M. Mananquil slippers at first, then whiskey to daughter-in-law Virgie Ramos, leading lady, Kathryn, it is not by seeing Angel and Richard now wondering if Jacintha is a Philstar.com American soldiers, then finally Nanay proudly related how she clear yet if she will become a totally new character, or is she the together again in a scene. bringing out and selling the wolf like her mother, Lia, or a In a recent “La Luna sangre” resurrection of Lia or Lyka? Yes, Papa Piolo Pascual kissed would have only six blouses and books that she hid from the three black skirts during her vampire. Other fans also speculate if John press conference, the stars of the Nanay socorro Ramos while Japanese who had censored early days as a tindera, a term she One thing is for sure though: show revealed that unlike other Lloyd Cruz, Lia’s husband in the serenading her with “Dahil sa these during the war. proudly uses to describe herself. unpredictable, unorthodox soap operas they did before, they, series, is also alive and he, Lia, and Iyo,” one of her favorite songs. National Artist Nick Joaquin But when son Benjamin too, do not know the fates of their plots and shocking character daughter Malia, played by Kathryn And all the guests shrieked with called her “super salesgirl” for opened the first NBs branch at appearances in the style of characters, even the fact if they Bernardo, will reunite in the end. excitement as she sang along her legendary selling skills. the University Belt on Recto, “Game of Thrones” keep netizens Others ask whether Jacintha is are a wolf, a vampire, or a human with him,like a loving nanay. It Lest we forget, it was Nanay engaged and ratings high. (Deni in the show. going to spark romance with was a moment famously captured Nanay ordered a few more pieces Coring who persuaded foreign from the NBs office uniform Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/ Although the leading man, supremo, the head vampire and on Instagram. publishers to allow her to supplier, costing P450 per Philstar.com) Daniel Padilla, has been known antagonist played by Richard, That characterized National produce locally printed, therefore blouse-and-skirt set, mostly in Book store’s celebration of its more affordable, schoolbooks for floral prints. 75th anniversary at Fairmont Filipino students. One can pick up lessons in Hotel’s ballroom: warm, relaxed she is the magnet and the simplicity, humility and frugality and happy. Just the way its 94magnate behind the country’s in An Open Book: Thursdays with year-old founder, Nanay Coring, biggest and most progressive Nanay Coring, a heartwarming would want it to be. bookstore chain that knows book written by her daughter she was pleased, too, that by Jan Milo Severo how to give back. NBs helps Cecilia “Bak”Licauco, which was 225 of her 226 branch managers Philstar.com boost education by providing the gift given to guests at the were present, clad in their books and school supplies to 75th anniv. elegant gowns and jumping CeLeBRITY host Phoemela marginalized communities. “Pag “I know how it is to be poor,” with delight as they held their Baranda represents the nakatulong ako ng tao at masaya phones and hoped for photo-ops Nanay Coring says in the book. “I Philippines in the new season sila, masaya rin ako.” will never forget it. That’s why till with guest singers Piolo, Gary of the History Channel show Nanay Coring has spent 75 today, I live very simply.” Valenciano, sarah Geronimo “Celebrity Car Wars,” competing years brilliantly selling books, Of her life with husband and host Toni Gonzaga while with other celebrities in southeast promoting literacy and the love Jose, who passed away in 1992, watching the show directed by Asia. for reading through National she adds: “We always lived a Rowell santiago. “The show is all about cars. Book store. That in itself calls simple life, wala kaming barkada. NBs managing director We did a lot of challenges that for a poignant celebration such Walang society-society. “ And Xandra Ramos-Padilla made sure involve four wheels. It is a circuit as this one at Fairmont, with she brought up her children with it would be a fabulous milestone car racing with a twist, drag testimonies onscreen from this reminder: “Remain humble. event, even as she knew that her racing with Godzilla cars, off-road people whose lives she has We are not above anybody else. Nanay Coring would probably 4x4 adventure, obstacles… lahat touched. We are just salespeople. We just have suggested just a simple basta may apat na gulong we did The sight of her 225 sell pad paper and ballpen. Mga office get-together with all the it,” Phoemela told Philstar.com. managers coming all the way employees enjoying a Max’s Fried tindera lang tayo.” The former Kapamilya from provincial branches, The celebration was a tribute Chicken meal. Her lola always entertainment anchor admitted laughing with her and singing to this icon who built the NBs prefers everything simple. that she is a really big fan of cars. with Papa Piolo surely made her empire through sheer sipag I remember during a lunch Celebrity host Phoemela Baranda represents the Philippines in the new season of the History “I love cars. I love the speed. I Channel show “Celebrity Car Wars.” generous heart happy. and tiyaga, selling candies and with Nanay Coring and her Continued on Page 7
A kiss by Papa Piolo for Nanay Coring
Phoemela Baranda on representing Philippines in ‘Celebrity Car Wars’
ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.
JK a revelation in ‘A Love to Last’ by boT
Glorioso
Philstar.com
JK Labajo is not about to go unnoticed even while his co-stars in the ABS-CBN primetime soap “A Love to Last” all excel in the acting department. He displays quite an impressive acting performance knowing that he was not an actor first but a singer. His portrayal of Lucas Noble, the son of Ian Veneracion’s Anton and Iza Calzado’s Grace, can easily make one hate him or love him. Lucas’ moody side shows in the slightest nuances of JK’s facial expression and body language, although Lucas is becoming less temperamental nowadays. JK sheepishly smiles when told about how his acting has been earning notice and praise from televiewers and netizens. “Thank you, thank you. I’m so flattered,” begins JK. “I really don’t know how to take compliments like, for example, someone tells something good about me, I just can’t say much but thank you. But I really appreciate the good things, and, well, the bad things, everything.” His stirring portrayal of the character, JK shares, has something to do with his heartbreaking experiences during his younger years. The slightest recall of how he had lost his mom at an early age, easily makes the 16-year-old singer-actor teary-eyed. “I guess, aside from that, it easily saddens me when I thought of what I’ve been through na mga bagay na di dapat ma-experience ng isang 16year-old na tulad ko.” Thus, JK demonstrated a heart-wrenching performance in one of the soap’s remarkable scenes where Lucas couldn’t do
n’ya wala ring patutunguhan so yeah sasapakin ko talaga si Lucas (laughs).” Although A Love to Last is his third drama outing — after having appeared in “Pangako sa ‘Yo” and “Hawak-Kamay” — JK believes “dito ko na-feel ‘yung legit acting na wow this is how acting feels like.” Iza, who also co-starred with JK in “Hawak-Kamay,” has also noticed how he has grown up and improved as a young actor. “I’m very happy to see him going this path at sana magtuloy-tuloy na.” Does it mean that JK will turn his back on singing? “No naman po. Never mawawala sa akin ang pagkanta. I just focused on acting because I don’t think I can attend to my singing (career) and acting at the same time since I don’t have JK Labajo ABS-CBN photo enough rest. So I’ve decided to anything but to say goodbye to his focus on acting,” replies JK, who mom Grace who will be leaving for was a finalist in “The Voice Kids Philippines.” the U.S. due to her dad’s serious Meanwhile, “A Love to Last” condition. is now on its last three weeks of That scene was also the most airing and what better way to memorable for him saying, “It thank their supporters is through feels great to experience having songs that continuously send kilig a mom even if it’s just for a show. to televiewers. JK and his co-stars I felt it was for real. Ang saya ng Ian, Bea Alonzo, Iza, Enchong Dee pakiramdam ng may nanay.” and Hannah Vito will treat fans via However, JK assures he has a pleasant disposition as opposed to a show titled Love Goals: A Love to Lucas whom he describes as “laging Last Concert on Sept. 8 at the Kia Theater. mainit ang ulo.” Ian, of course, will be Asked if Lucas was one of performing most of the songs his friends, what advice would that have added passion to his he give to him, JK says that he would perhaps punch Lucas for his and Andeng’s (Bea) love for each “not so kind” behavior. “I would tell other. him to just be happy for his dad having found a new love. He has to accept it and move on because it does not mean na end of the world na kumbaga and eventually, it will happen that his dad will fall in love again. ‘Yung pagmumukmok
Will Smith posts the first selfie of the “Alladin” cast with the caption: “We just started shooting Aladdin and I wanted to intro you guys to our new family - Mena Massoud/Aladdin, Naomi Scott/Princess Jasmine, Marwan Kenzari/Jafar, and I’m over here gettin my Genie on. Here we go!” Photo from Facebook/@Will Smith
‘Aladdin’ cast takes first selfie
BURBANK – Casting for “Aladdin,” the live-action adaptation of the studio’s animated classic, is complete and production is currently underway at Longcross Studios outside London. The “Aladdin” cast includes: Two-time Oscar nominee Will Smith (“Ali,” “Men in Black”) as the Genie who has the power to grant three wishes to whoever possesses his magic lamp; Mena Massoud (Amazon’s “Jack Ryan”) as Aladdin, the hapless but lovable street rat who is smitten with the Sultan’s daughter; Naomi Scott (“Power Rangers”) as Princess Jasmine, the Sultan’s beautiful daughter who wants to have a say in how she lives her life; Marwan Kenzari (“Murder on the Orient Express”) as Jafar, an evil sorcerer who devises a nefarious plot to unseat the Sultan and rule Agrabah himself; Navid Negahban (“Homeland”) as the Sultan, the ruler of Agrabah who is eager to find a proper husband for his daughter, Jasmine; Nasim Pedrad (“Saturday Night Live”) as Dalia, Princess Jasmine’s hand maiden and confidante; Billy Magnussen (“Into the Woods”) as Prince Anders, a suitor from Skanland and potential husband for Princess Jasmine; and Numan Acar (“Homeland”) as Hakim, Jafar’s right-hand man and head of the palace guards. “Aladdin” is directed by Guy Ritchie (“Sherlock Holmes,” “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”) from a screenplay by John August (“Dark Shadows,” “Big Fish”) based on the 1992 animated film “Aladdin” and stories from “One Thousand and One Nights.” The producer is Dan Lin (“The LEGO Movie”) with Golden Globe winner Marc Platt (“La La Land”), Jonathan Eirich (“Deathnote“) and Kevin De La Noy (“The Dark Knight Rises”) serving as executive producers. Eight-time Academy Award-winning composer Alan Menken (“Beauty and the Beast,” “The Little Mermaid”) provides the score, which includes new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and Oscar-winning lyricists Howard Ashman (“Little Shop of Horrors”) and Tim Rice (“The Lion King”) as well as two new songs written by Menken and Oscar and Tony Award-winning songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“La La Land,” “Dear Evan Hansen”). (Philstar.com)
Phoemela Baranda on... From Page 6
love the challenge. I think I have good skills in driving. In this contest, it’s my first to try the off-road trucks, the rock rollers, ‘yung malalaki. I really enjoyed it.” Phoemela said she will do her best for her to bag the ultimate prize and for country’s pride in her episodes shot in Tarlac, Bataan and Pampanga. “Everyone has a fair chance here, everyone has a driving background, everyone is very competitive and fearless.You have to watch it and see the challenges. Talagang you wouldn’t have thought kung sino ang mananalo,” the model-actress said. For the competition, she said she prepared physically and mentally as they will do challenges for 20 straight days. “Every challenge is a big challenge. Everything is new. For me, to go through all the challenges, you need to be emotionally and physically prepared.” The new season of “Celebrity Car Wars” has many revelations and promises to be action-packed. Apart from the crazy challenges, viewers will need to watch out for Phoemela’s outfits. “Under the racing suit kasi it’s hot so I wear a very sexy sports bra. That’s my trademark in the show.” Apart from the History Channel’s new show, Phoemela is still doing the show in Viva cable channels “Anong Ganap?”
september 8-14, 2017 www.asianjournal.com
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The generation of Khalil Ramos by Pablo
a. Tariman Philstar.com
AT 21, Khalil Ramos carries a certain sensibility so rare for aspiring young stars his age. He knows he has a lot more to learn and absorb, he knows the competition out there is stiff but for sure, he knows his place in the sun. “I have come to terms with many things in life,” he confides. “But the choices are there for me to accept or not. I know what will keep me challenged and I know I am cut out for certain roles. It’s just a matter with working with the right project and the right director.” And true enough, director Erik Matti finds in him the actor with the right attitude for the brand of films he has in mind. Indeed, he is promising enough to be signed as a contract star for Reality Entertainment of which direk Erik is one of the founders along with producer Dondon Monteverde. Says the director: “People may find him cute but there is more to him than that. The eyes show a certain kind of guts, which we don’t find in other young actors. For that reason, we are preparing him for roles that are larger than life and beyond the rom-com orientation.” Khalil says he knows he has a
good chance of becoming a good actor with direk Erik overseeing him. He can still remember the first time he saw direk Erik and producer Dondon. “It was during a fighting workshop for my first project under Reality Entertainment. I was at that time of my life where I was just beginning to seek new opportunities and expand my knowledge as an actor. That same year, direk Erik, Sir Dondon and I worked together in Honor Thy Father. Being part of that film changed my perspective towards my craft. I became certain of my one true passion which is storytelling. I also became aware of the true capability of one’s mind. From then on, I started believing that I am capable of creating my own destiny. I knew that one day, I would be working with them on a much higher level.” Indeed, he has with other projects, one of which was Petersen Vargas’ “2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten” where he was nominated for Best Actor in the last Gawad Urian Awards. The role is a delicate one and he has to figure in a sensitive tale of coming of age which had him coping with signs of early male attraction. His reaction shots while one of the characters of his coactors was doing a controversial auto-erotic scene was subtle but
Khalil: As an actor, he wants to be a good storyteller. Philstar.com photo
no less intense. It probably taught him that not everything about growing up is black and white. For now, he is seen as the DJ who becomes a creature of the night in La Luna Sangre while waiting for the release of his other finished projects. He concludes: “I believe my generation has a lot to offer although we can learn a lot from the older generation. I think we are the most powerful generation and the most influential due to the onset of social media and high technology. But on my own, I know I can contribute a lot by becoming the actor I want to be. I want to be known as an actor who can be a good storyteller. For that reason, I can do anything to realize that goal.”
september 1-7, 2017 www.asianjournal.com
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