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Volume 16 - No. 8 • 3 Sections – 22 Pages
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Jurists warn: Death penalty violates PH’s int’l obligations by rOsette
aDel
Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) warned the Philippines that it will violate international obligations once it revives death penalty. In a memorandum, the ICJ said the Philippines is a state party to the Second Optional Protocol to
the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights aiming to abolish death penalty. The group also cited the 1987 Constitution’s bill of rights. “The ICJ believes that if the Philippines adopts a law that re-imposes the death penalty, it will be in direct violation of its international obligations,” the ICJ memorandum read. “It (Philippines) is obliged un-
der this international instrument not to execute anyone within its jurisdiction,” it added. The protocol effectively prohibits states from bringing back death penalty once it has been abolished in domestic laws. Emerlynne Gil, the ICJ’s senior international legal adviser for Southeast Asia, said the Philippines cannot withdraw from Sec-
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LOVE TRAIN. Commuters ride an LRT Line 1 coach with Valentine’s decorations. LRT coaches will carry the flower theme for the whole month of February as a treat to the often harried train riders of Metro Manila. Manilatimes.net photo by Mike de Juan
SolGen recommends Philippine Supreme Court acquittal of Janet Napoles affirms forfeiture of
USA
DATELINE Philippines to ask US for help to counter piracy in southern seas FROM ThE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
by Dana
siOsOn AJPress
MANILA is planning to ask for Washington’s help in countering militants off the waters in the southern Philippines, the Department of Defense (DND) said on Tuesday, February 7. In an interview with Agence France-Presse (AFP), Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the country will ask the United States to conduct joint naval exercises across the Sibutu Passage to guard it against pirate attacks. Located between northern Malaysia and the southern Philippines, about 13,000 shipping vessels reportedly use the Sibutu passage annually. According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the said maritime channel offers the fastest shipping routes between
SOLICITOR General Jose Calida has recommended the acquittal of alleged multibillion priority development assistance funds (PDAF) scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles, claiming that the Regional Trial Court wrongly convicted her guilty in her serious illegal detention case. “In the case of Napoles, it is my wellconsidered opinion, as well as the opinion of my assistant solicitor generals, that the court, the Regional Trial Court, erred in
convicting the accused, Janet Napoles, for the crime of serious illegal detention,” Calida said in a press conference on Wednesday, February 15. In 2014, Napoles was sentenced to reclusion perpetua, or an imprisonment term of 21 up to 40 years. Judge Elmo Alameda of the Makati Regional Trial Court convicted Napoles guilty of detaining her cousin and principal scam whistleblower, Benhur Luy, from December 2012 to March 2013. But according to Calida, Luy’s behavior during his supposed three months deten-
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Filipino designer on ‘Make America Great Again’ Grammys gown: We have to support the president by Christina
M. Oriel
AJPress
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WhILE most headlines about the 59th annual Grammy Awards are focusing on Adele’s “Album of the Year” win over Beyoncé, a relatively unknown singer was catapulted into the limelight for her bold red carpet look made by a Filipino designer bearing a political message to support rather than resist President Donald Trump. On Sunday night, February 12, Joy Villa arrived in a white coat and subsequently took it off to reveal her navy blue gown with “Make America Great Again” emblazoned on it, while “TRUMP” in sil-
USAID programs in PH continue despite anti-US tirades
ThE United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is continuing with its assistance programs with the Philippine government this year. This is despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s previous pronouncements that the Philippines could survive without any assistance from the U.S. “We continue to have programs with them and no one has asked us to leave or to discontinue. We continue to work together,” Gloria Steele, acting assistant administrator for USAID’s Bureau for Asia, said, as quoted
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ver glitter was spelled out on the backside. Behind the statement piece is Andre Soriano, a designer based in San Diego, who appeared on Rihanna’s Bravo fashion reality show, “Styled to Rock” back in 2013. “The gown was more a message of love and moving this country forward,” Soriano said during an interview with the Asian Journal on Monday, February 13. “I design for all types of human. I don’t really care — there are no races or barriers with creativity when it comes to dressing up women.” Soriano, who has been working with Villa for three years, said he had a few outfit sketches prepared for her based their conversations about “static, the sun, peace,
Imelda Marcos’ jewelry set by AJPress
ThE Philippine Supreme Court (SC) has affirmed an earlier Sandiganbayan ruling which orders the forfeiture of the third jewelry collection owned by former First Lady Imelda Marcos. Also known as the “Malacañang Collection,” the set is assessed to be worth between $110,055 to $153,089, based on the evaluation of auction house
Christie, Manson and Woods Intl., Inc. in 1991. The high court rejected the petition for certiorari filed by Imelda and her daughter, Irene Marcos-Araneta, the 21-page decision authored by Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno said. The petition sought to reverse the anti-graft court’s 2014 finding that the jewelry collection was part of the Marcos family’s ill-
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Imelda Marcos’ jewelry collection
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Horn to take on Pacquiao anywhere: ‘I’ll fight him on the moon’ Despite Pacquiao’s adviser Michael Koncz announcing the other day that Pacquiao will fight WhILE Jeff horn still prefers horn in the United Arab Emirto fight Manny Pacquiao in his ates, the Australian isn’t buying hometown in Australia, the 28- it. year-old fighter doesn’t mind “Someone’s come out when taking on the Filipino icon else- they shouldn’t have and has anwhere. u PAGE A3 by DinO
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february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
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From the Front Page SolGen recommends acquittal…
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tion “belies the fact that he was actually detained or deprived of his liberty.” “Benhur was not actually restrained inside the retreat house. According to witnesses, he acted like any other normal person who would undergo a retreat. He would read the Bible, he would jot notes, he participated in the Mass and other things that somebody who undergoes retreats should do,” Calida said. The solicitor general took note that Luy, during his supposed detention, had an access to cellphone but never called anyone to tell that he was being restrained. He added that Luy was able to see his family three times and was also able to slip a letter to relative on February 21, 2013, but “in none of these instances did he (Luy) intimate to anyone that he was being kidnapped or detained by the appellant.” “When we look at the evidence, the transcript of records, there are many glaring instances
which will support the acquittal of the accused,” Calida pointed out. The solicitor general then claimed that “injustice was done” to Napoles. Calida, however, clarified that Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) did not file manifestation for the purpose of acquitting Napoles. He said the the OSG only wanted the Court of Appeals “to know what is our opinion on the matter.” “We will not do justice if we will not make right what is wrong,” Calida said. “Justice will not send an innocent person to the gallows. It is my bound duty to state the facts.” Calida also denied the rumors that the present administration wants to make a deal with Napoles. He insisted that President Rodrigo Duterte “has nothing to do with this decision.” “What deal are you talking about? We are talking about the rule of law here. There’s no deal as far as I’m concerned because
my interest is to see to it that justice is done,” the solicitor general replied when sought for comments. He added that the OSG’s move in Napoles’ serious illegal detention case will have no implications to her PDAF, or also referred to as pork barrel, scam cases. But Senator Leila De Lima, who was then the Justice Secretary when Napoles was charged of plunder over the multi-billion PDAF scam, said that the solicitor general’s move was “questionable and suspicious.” “It’s [a] different case pero doon nga nabuo ang usapin ng (but that was how the whole talk about) PDAF scam. Kaya nalaman dahil nga na-detain si (It was found out because) Benhur Luy…It is questionable. I find it suspicious,” De Lima told reporters on Wednesday. She then added, “Pambihira yan mangyari na yung estado (It’s unusual that the state) through SolGen would now
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PRESIDIO VISITOR CENTER GRAND OPENING FREE Welcome to Your National Park! Come out to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Presidio Visitor Center. This new destination is where you can learn about all the activities you and your family can enjoy in this national park, from trails to picnic sites to free events. At the Grand Opening, explore the visitor center’s exhibits, digital tools, and videos, and then enjoy a day of fun throughout the Presidio. • • • •
Live music and dance Games and crafts for kids Guided tours Buy lunch from the food trucks or bring a picnic
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 10 AM TO 4 PM 210 Lincoln Boulevard in the Presidio of San Francisco Register at www.presidio.gov/community-day Visit the website for information on how to get here on MUNI or the free Presidio Shuttle.
Bring this ad to the Grand Opening and receive a special thank you gift (one per family – while supplies last).
PORT CALL. The USS Louisville (SSN 724), a fast-attack submarine, arrives in Subic Bay for a brief port call that highlights the strong connections between the Philippines and the United States. The Louisville crew will participate in a series of community service projects and sporting events during the visit. Louisville is deployed to the US 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific. Manilatimes.net photo
Jurists warn: Death penalty violates PH’s… PAGE A1 t
ond Optional Protocol, which has no denunciation or withdrawal clause. The UN Human Rights Committee has explained that a denunciation clause was deliberately omitted because once the people are accorded the protection of the rights under the Second Optional Protocol, they shall not be deprived of such protection. The protocol was also cited by senators opposing the proposed measure at the February 7 Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights’ hearing on the revival of death penalty. The Constitution’s Article III, Section 19, meanwhile,
states that: “Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it.” “There really is no inconsistency between the Second Optional Protocol and the Philippine Constitution,” Gil said. “As a general rule, the Philippine Constitution prohibits the death penalty except for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes. But in no way does it mandate that the death penalty be put into effect,” she added.
Senate panel chair Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon thereafter called for the indefinite suspension of the hearing citing the need for clarity on the ramifications on the Philippines if it reneges on its obligations. The ICJ, which opposes the death penalty “in all cases without exception” along with human rights groups, welcomed the Senate’s indefinite suspension of the hearings into the death penalty bills. The Senate has yet to announce when it will resume its inquiry into the revival of the death penalty as it is still waiting for the Department of Justice’s submission of its opinion on the protocol. n
Philippine Supreme Court affirms forfeiture… PAGE A1 t
gotten wealth. The SC said that the petitioners “failed to satisfactorily show that the properties were lawfully acquired.” The high court also denied the Marcoses’ claim that they were deprived of due process and were not given the opportunity to prove that they acquired the jewelry legally. “This allegation cannot be given credence for being utterly baseless,” it said.
The high court added that it has also found “no reversible error in the ruling of the Sandiganbayan” over the seized jewelry collection. “The Sandiganbayan correctly held that the forfeiture was justified and that the Malacanang Collection was subject to forfeiture,” it said. The “Malacañang Collection” was left behind by the family of late and former President Ferdinand Marcos at the presidential palace when they fled outside the
country after the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986. The said collection is presently kept inside vaults of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, together with the Roumeliotes and Hawaii collections, which were both seized back in 1986. Diamondstudded tiaras, a golden belt with a diamond buckle, necklaces, brooches, earrings, belts and other gems including a pink diamond are reportedly in the set, according to Japan Times.
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From the Front Page
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
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Philippines to ask US for help to counter…
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SEEING RED. Manila residents release hundreds of balloons along Bay Walk along Roxas Blvd. to celebrate Valentine’s Day on Tuesday, February 14 Manilatimes.net photo by Russell Palma
Australia and other manufacturing countries like China, Japan, and South Korea. Last month, the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) said in its report that the waters off the southern Philippines have become ‘increasingly dangerous’ as the number of maritime kidnappings in the region hit a 10year high in 2016. IMB said 62 people were kidnapped for ransom in waters between Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, a lot higher compared to only 19 in 2015 and nine in 2014. Indonesia also previously warned that the area could become the “next Somalia,” referring to a country in Africa where ship hijackings have been a crisis for the past decades. “If shipowners will skirt that
area just to avoid kidnap at sea activities by these terrorists, for sure, it will have an additional cost,” Philippine Coast Guard Chief Commodore Joel Garcia told AFP. Last year, the governments of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines agreed to conduct trilateral maritime and aerial patrol cooperation to address the increasing criminal activities in ‘maritime areas of common concern.’ “It’s not just the concern of the Philippines or Indonesia and Malaysia, but of the international shipping community,” Garcia added. Recently, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he asked China to help patrol across the international waters to combat the rising incidents of maritime kidnappings and piracy.
“We would be glad if they have their presence there. Hindi naman kailangan (It doesn’t necessarily have to be) gray ships eh. Sabi ko, basta iyong Coast Guard cutter, just to patrol (I said, even with just letting the Coast Guard cutter patrol), like what they did in Somalia, tumulong sila (they helped). Somalia has toned down. Pero dito sa (But here in) Malacca Strait, pati dito sa (And also here in) Sulu Sea, it remains to be a big problem,” Duterte said during a speech on January 31. According to Garcia, the Philippine and Chinese coast guards would likely discuss the details of the eyed sea patrol cooperation next week. Lorenzana said the Philippines plans to “talk to the ministry of defense of China on how to operationalise this joint patrol.” (Dana M. Sioson/AJPress)
level, they have asked us to continue because there is unfinished business. There is work to be done and, like I said, our whole goal was to make this a sustainable program so that Filipinos could carry this on by themselves,” she added. Steele also said that the USAID will continue its assistance in Mindanao this year, which will address resilience issues and growth. Drug rehabilitation has yet to be added to the agency’s list of projects in the Philippines. However, Washington remains open to such programs.
“That was an area that was brought up. Right now we don’t have resources for that. It’s just a discussion,” Steele explained. She went on to say, “They (Philippine government) just said that’s an area they want to talk to us about but we don’t have resources. I didn’t say we’re not supporting. I said we have discussions going on.” Last year, Duterte dared Washington to pull out its assistance from the country, following the criticisms from the United States — under former President Barack Obama — against the
Filipino designer on ‘Make America Great… USAID programs in PH continue despite anti-US… Villa’s dress wasn’t the only political statement made on Sunday night. Katy Perry donned a white pantsuit and an armband with “PERSIST” written on it, alluding to Senator Elizabeth Warren being silenced in Congress the week before. In her acceptance speech, Beyoncé spoke about beauty and racial identity. During a performance with A Tribe Called Quest and Anderson .Paak, Busta Rhymes slammed the president — calling him “President Agent Orange” — for “all of that evil that you‘ve been perpetuating throughout the United States.” n
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and love.” However, the designs ultimately changed after watching coverage of the Women’s March in Washington, D.C. following President Donald Trump’s inauguration in January. “Someone said they were going to bomb the White House,” he said. “I called Joy immediately and said, ‘I have a new proposition for you. There is so much hatred happening right now in our country and we have a responsibility of making a statement.’” Compelled by this, Soriano decided to transform a Trump flag into a gown and “blinged it out” on both sides. “We have one president right now and we have to move this country forward. That’s why when she revealed the gown, that was her message: we have to support our president and we have to promote love, unity, family and camaraderie,” he said. In an Instagram post, Villa wrote: “Sometimes you just gotta be free to express yourself. Thank you to all of my supporters and fellow believers. Life is about living free and loving it. Be your beautiful selves tonight!” By Monday afternoon, various reports indicated that digital sales for the 25-year-old singer’s album, “I Make the Static,” jumped to the top spot on Amazon’s list of top 100 digital albums and the No. 7 spot on the iTunes top albums list. “After I spoke to [Joy] last night, it was loud and clear that we delivered our message because there are so many not-sogood things happening here in America. President Trump said it was ‘America First,’ so why don’t we just give him four or eight years to really prove what he can do?” Soriano added. Despite the controversial immigration orders rolled out within the president’s first two weeks in office, Soriano — who migrated from the Philippines years ago — said that he believes
Filipino designer Andre Soriano shares a photo of his “Make America Great Again” inspired creation for singer Joy Villa at the 59th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night, February 12. On his Instagram account, Soriano wrote that the gown was “A Tribute [to] OUR President of The United States Of America.” Courtesy of Andre Soriano’s Instagram account
the United States will continue to be a welcoming place for immigrants. “It’s an immigrant country where people from countries all over the globe can come here legally, and I think that was the president’s message,” he said. “With what’s happening, he wants to protect all kinds of people here in America. He wants to screen people if they are legitimate. It’s for the safety of the people who live here and that’s true for all types of immigrants, including me, considering I’m gay too.” With the added publicity, Soriano said he’s motivated to keep on designing daring looks. “I would love to dress our First Lady Melania Trump, and also to go back to the Philippines and showcase my collection,” he said, adding that he is still keen on helping and raising funds for victims of Typhoon Haiyan years later. “I am a proud Filipino American,” he declared. “It’s the American dream for me just to be noticed.”
Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn
Horn to take on Pacquiao…
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nounced 100 percent that the fight is somewhere else,” Horn recently told Fox Sports News 500. Horn’s representatives have been moving heaven and earth the past few weeks to bring the fight to the boxer’s hometown in Brisbane, Australia, talking to both Top Rank chief Bob Arum and the Queensland state government. But confusion arose after Koncz’s declaration that he is “100 percent sure” that the fight will take place in the UAE. Pacquiao himself confirmed it on his Twitter account. Nevertheless, as far as Horn is concerned, Australia is still in the running to host the fight, which is slated this April. “It’s a bit of a shock for all of us to go, ‘Hold on a second. We had the fight planned for here.’
As far as I know the fight is still in Brisbane and hopefully we’ll find out in the next few days what’s happening,” he added. Meanwhile, Horn’s manager Glenn Rushton is doubtful about the fight being staged in the UAE, saying they’re awaiting the final word from Arum. “Anything else is just purely speculation and we’ve all heard talk about big fights coming out of Dubai for years and I’ve never seen one yet, so I have to simply say it like you that it’s simply speculation. Let’s wait until Bob Arum speaks,” Rushton said in the same Fox Sports News 500 report. Horn, for his part, is ready to slug it out with Pacquiao anywhere. “I’ll fight him on the moon if I have to. I doesn’t bother me but it would be beyond a dream come true if I do get it in Brisbane or Australia,” he said. n
Philippine Supreme Court…
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“We reiterate what we have already stated initially in Republic v. Sandiganbayan, and subsequently in Marcos v. Republic: that ‘Whenever any public officer or employee has acquired during his incumbency an amount of property which is manifestly out of proportion to his salary as such public officer or employee and to his other lawful income and the income from legitimately
acquired property, said property shall be presumed prima facie to have been unlawfully acquired,’” the court said. Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the current administration of President Rodrigo Duterte will respect the high court’s ruling. “I don’t know if we’re going to selling it but we will abide by the decision that it belongs to the government,” Abella told reporters. n
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by Inquirer. Steele noted that the USAID projects in the Philippines were “not aid per se” but rather, “a partnership.” “We have talked about continuing the partnership for growth but I believe they now call it, ‘Partnership for Growth with Equity,’” Steele remarked. According to her, the Duterte administration sought to pursue USAID programs related to health, education, and promotion of resiliency amid both manmade and natural disasters. “I think on the implementation
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february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
Dateline USa
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If ICE knocks ‘Don’t open the door; know your rights’– immigrant advocates States can exercise to protect themselves, according to immigration and community advoNEW YORK — When ICE of- cates on Wednesday,February 8, ficials knock on your door, you in the wake of executive orders don’t have to let them into your on immigration issued by Pres. home. And in case a law enforce- Donald Trump that have sparked ment officer stops you on the massive raids in recent days road and asks about your im- across the country. migration status, do not provide “Don’t open the door to anyone any information without your im- you don’t know,” Sally Kinoshita, migration lawyer. deputy director of Immigrant LeThose were the rights that gal Resource Center (ILRC), told undocumented Filipinos and all the ethnic press. “Don’t sign any other immigrants in the United document that you don’t underby Anthony
AdvinculA Inquirer.net
stand [because] that may give up some of your rights to a hearing [with an immigration judge] and other benefits.” Every immigrant can deny ICE officials entry, especially if they don’t have a warrant issued by an immigration judge, advocates say. In most cases, because judges issue order of removals and not warrants, ICE officials do not have warrants with them. Know your rights “Immigrant communities,” Konishita added, “should know that these rights have not been changed.” Giselle Ruiz, a staff attorney at ILRC, noted that these rights are rooted in the U.S. Constitution and that every individual in the country, regardless of immigration status, is protected. “These are parts of the Fourth Amendment—the right of the people to be secure in their homes against unreasonable searches—and the Fifth Amendment, which is basically your right to remain silent,” Ruiz said. “Trump cannot take away these rights [from you].” Trump’s executive orders have broadened the definition of “criminal alien,” in which it potentially makes almost every undocumented immigrant a priority for deportation. Under the Obama administration, though he deported 2.7 million immigrants from 2009 to 2016, the priority for deportation was focused on immigrants who were deemed a threat to public or national security, or had committed serious felony offenses. Not threats to public security Most immigrants did not fall under any of these categories — and this is the reason why many undocumented immigrants, even the ones with a deportation order, were allowed to stay in the United States. But among the first executive orders that Trump has issued since he took office on Jan. 20, undocumented immigrants with any criminal offense —including those who have been convicted and those who have not been charged but are believed to have committed “acts that constitute a chargeable criminal offense”— have become a priority for deportation. This means that any undocumented person in the country (including those who overstayed their visas) is a priority, advocates say, and that it encourages “local law enforcement,” such
as a police officer, to “cooperate with federal immigration authorities to enforce some of these priorities.” Advocates believe that this move by the present administration is part of the campaignpromise that Trump gave to his supporters. Sweeping raids According to reports, sweeping raids by U.S. immigration officials in recent days apprehended hundreds of undocumented immigrants. As of Friday, Feb. 10, nearly 200 individuals from California, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina were arrested in a weeklong immigration operation. In Los Angeles alone, more than 150 arrests were reportedly made last week. Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa issued a statement: “The recent reports of ICE raids in our region have created great anxiety and are justifiably disturbing. Particularly given Pres. Trump’s rhetoric targeting immigrants, it is critically important that we stand together to protect each other.” The U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials described to the media the operations as “routine.” Leaked memos While no one could verify its authenticity, advocates noted that there have been some leaked documents showing that Trump may issue more executive orders on immigration. These leaked memos include ending the Deferred Action for Childhood Removals, or DACA, a program that Obama issued in
USAID programs… PAGE A3 t
Philippines’ intensified campaign against illegal drugs. Duterte then insisted that the Philippines could survive on its own without receiving any aid from the U.S. government. “I do not expect the human rights (advocates), I do not expect (former U.S. President Barack) Obama, I do not expect the EU to understand me. Do not understand me and if you think it’s high time for you guys to withdraw your assistance, go ahead. We will not beg for it,” Duterte said during a speech sometime in October. (Dana Sioson / AJPress)
2012. To date, more than 740,000 undocumented immigrants— including Filipinos— who came to the United States when they were younger than 16 years old, have been recipients of the DACA program. According to a report by the Migration Policy Institute, Filipinos were among the five highest DACA-eligible populations in the country. Last year alone, about 22,000 Filipinos were eligible for DACA and 28 percent of them filed their applications. “If this [leaked memo] happens, they [DACA recipients] will lose their protection from deportation and their ability to work legally in the country,” said Kinoshita. In addition, part of the leaked memos say that the Trump administration will conduct a report on how much money the government spends for refugee assistance program, how many foreign workers affect job opportunities for U.S.- born citizens, and how many undocumented immigrants committed crimes. Pitting others against immigrants “They [Trump administration] is really trying to pit people of the United States against immigrants — that immigrants [pose] danger to communities or drain the resources,” said Kinoshita. In the Filipino-American community, many are alarmed by unverified reports that the Philippines, because of the Muslim presence in the south, will be soon added to the seven coun-
tries facing Trump’s travel ban. “Anecdotally, we’ve heard about people who are not part of the seven countries were detained at the airport or were not being able allowed to board their flight,” said Esther Sung, a staff attorney of National Immigration Law Center. “But it is difficult to know because we don’t have the specifics of the case.” But a federal appeals panel on Thursday, February 9, unanimously rejected Trump’s effort to reinstate his travel ban in the United States from seven largely Muslim nations — Somalia, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Necessary check Sung added: “The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals acted, as the courts are supposed to, as a necessary check to the blatant constitutional overreach emblazoned by Pres. Trump’s unlawful and un-American executive order. This decision means that, for now, people seeking refuge from horrific conditions will not be turned away, that families separated by this discriminatory policy can reunite. This is a reminder to everyone: our constitution protects us all, and no one—not even the President—is above it.” Still, for Ruiz, knowing and defending your rights would be critical in these times of harsh immigration policies. “Immigrants themselves should be at the forefront of protecting their own rights,” she said. n
SolGen recommends… PAGE A2 t move to acquit, would now share the position of the convicted accused?” Luy, meanwhile, expressed dismay over the solicitor general’s move. “Ang sabi niya, nadidismaya siya, na bumabaligtad na yung gobyerno. Nag-aalala na sila sa kalagayan nila (Luy said he is disappointed that the government is reversing. Luy is now worried about their condition),” a source told Inquirer, referring to other scam witnesses. In a statement, Luy’s camp claimed they were not aware of the solicitor general’s “mysterious” recommendation. Janet Napoles “We are just as surprised as everybody but we have yet to offi- mysterious comment,” Luy’s cially receive a copy of the OSG’s lawyer, Raji Mendoza, said. n
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
Dateline PhiliPPines
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‘Duterte open to work with CBCP amid drug war’ by alexiS
RomeRo Philstar.com
MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte is open to working with the Catholic Church despite their differences on the administration’s bloody drug war, a Malacañang official said. Duterte had engaged bishops in a word war after the Church called on the administration to uphold the sanctity of life amid the drug killings that claimed the lives of over 7,600 people. The President badmouthed Church officials and said they do not have moral ascendancy to
preach because of corruption and sex scandals involving the clergy. On Monday, Feb. 13, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Socrates Villegas said they were willing to work with Duterte and are not closing their communication lines with the government. Asked if a collaboration with the bishops is possible, presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella replied, “At the end of the day, anything is possible. As I said last time, ‘Wala naman sigurong matigas na tinapay sa mainit na kape’.”
“If they showed this from the very beginning, maybe we would have a better working relationship. Of course, we welcome that,” Abella added. Abella, however, said the CBCP should be the one to make the first move. “But, of course, at this particular stage, things have to be worked out But the initiative must come from the CBCP,” he said. Abella said there was no need for the bishops to apologize for their criticism against the government. “Not necessarily, but I suppose PAGE A8
UNICEF says lowering criminal liability to age 9 ‘very unfair to a child’ by Dana
SioSon AJPress
LOWERING the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to nine is a “great child violation,” the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) agency in the Philippines warned. In an interview with The Guardian, UNICEF Philippine Representative Lotta Sylwander said that the bid to jail children as young as nine years old is “wrong from every angle.” “If they grow up, spending their teenage years in a prison, they most probably will be damaged for life,” Sylwander said. She argued that children that age are unable to fully comprehend the consequences of a crime. “Apart from the fact that it’s against human rights, it’s very unfair to a child, to punish them in such a harsh way as the criminal system would be, for something that they never understood was that serious,” Sylwander said. Sylwander also claimed that such law will not lower criminality and might, instead, have an opposite result. “It doesn’t fix the problem, it’s a great child violation and it will be a great burden on the
criminal system, an unnecessarily burden,” she pointed out. “By incarcerating children at such a young age, they in fact become well-trained criminals by being brought up in prisons with other criminals.” Among the bills that sought to revert the criminal liability back to 9 years old include the “Minimum Age of Criminal Responsibility Act” filed by House Speaker Bebot Alvarez and Representative Fredenil Castro. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who backs the proposal on lowering the age of criminal liability, originally wanted it to go down to 12 years old. Several senators, however, proposed lowering it to 9 years old. Although Alvarez and Castro acknowledged that the intent of Pangilinan’s bill to protect the youth was “laudable,” they argued that R.A. 9344 or the Juvenile Delinquency Act of 2006 “pampers” the young offenders. “Its effects have had the opposite effects: The pampering of youthful offenders knowing they can get away with it. Worse, adult criminals individually, or in organized cabals knowingly and purposely make use of youth
below 15 years of age to commit crimes,” Alvarez and Castro’s bill read. In an earlier statement, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) said a minimum age of criminal responsibility below the age of 12 years is considered ‘internationally unacceptable.’ Sylwander also criticized Duterte for ignoring the statistics of the national police which show that less than 2 percent of the total crimes in the country are committed by children below 15. “It seems he rarely listens to facts, or doesn’t find out the facts before he talks,” she said. Sylwander also condemned Duterte’s war on drugs that has reportedly led to the casualties of several children. “Yes, children are used as petty sellers...but why go after the children who do not understand what they are doing instead of going for the big syndicates?” Sylwander said. She went on to say, “It seems there is less effort to get the big guys. You shoot the small gangsters or the small drug traders in the slum areas and the poor areas. But there seems to be no real, concerted efforts to get the big drug lords in the country. And there are quite a few.” n
CLIMATE-SMART. Bicolano farmers in Malinao, Albay plant rice to ensure food sufficiency. The Department of Agriculture in Bicol has cited the local farmers for easily adapting to extreme climate changes. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rhaydz Barcia
State of calamity declared in Surigao del Norte after 6.7 magnitude earthquake by Dana
SioSon AJPress
THE province of Surigao del Norte was placed under a state of calamity, following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the region over the weekend. The resolution, dated Monday, February 13, was signed by Vice Governor Arturo Carlos Egay, Jr. Under the declaration, the governor is allowed to disburse funds from the 5 percent reserved calamity fund, including the 30 percent Quick Response Fund for relief operations and rehabilitation. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the quake hit Mindanao at 10:03 pm on Friday, February 10, with its epicenter, located 14 kilometers northwest of Surigao City. Several aftershocks were re-
corded after the earthquake but the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said on its website that there is no tsunami threat caused by the tremor. Disaster officials have confirmed eight deaths and at least 200 people injured during the quake. “This was the first time Surigao had suffered a quake this strong. The previous one occurred in the 1800s,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, who is also a native of the region, said. The government initially estimated about a total of P687 million worth of damage to houses and infrastructures caused by the tremor, including the Surigao City Airport, which will be closed for one month for repairs. On Sunday, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte visited Surigao del Norte to inspect the damage caused by the earthquake and the authorities’ re-
sponse effort. During his speech before the residents, Duterte vowed to extend financial assistance to victims of the tremor. “I will release money for you, so prioritize those who lost their lives and source of living,” Duterte said in Visayan, as quoted by CNN. According to Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella, relief goods were delivered to Surigao on Sunday. “Distribution was initially hampered by an inadequate distribution system. The victims were already expecting the relief goods as early as 5 a.m., but the local government made a judgment call to wait for the President who arrived by 1 p.m.,” Abella said in a statement. The New People’s Army (NPA) also reportedly declared a “localized ceasefire” to pave the way for relief operations. n
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february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
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OpiniOn
Justified
Features
POLITICAL reform in the Philippines is hounded by high public expectation because of untold amounts of corruption and lawbreaking by public officials for years. It is like a mirage that never truly materializes; it recedes the closer we try to get to it. There are those who maintain a level of cynicism toward the political system and apathy toward political participation because of a negative perception of people who are elected to office. This negative connotation exists because of the few public officials who have abused their power to accomplish personal and selfish pursuits. The penalization of plunder in the Philippines is only two decades old. Republic Act 7080 or the Anti-Plunder Law was enacted in the wake of former President Ferdinand Marcos’s dictatorship—when he and his cronies allegedly amassed ill-gotten wealth. The law was passed in 1991 to be used as a deterrant to prevent public officials from stealing money from the government. The law states that plunder is committed by any public officer who, by himself or herself, or in connivance with members of his or her family, relatives by affinity or consanguinity, business associates, subordinates or other persons, amasses, accumulates or acquires ill-gotten wealth through a combination or series of overt or criminals acts as described in Section 1(d) hereof in the aggregate amount or total value of at least Fifty million pesos (P50,000,000.00) shall be guilty of the crime of plunder and shall be punished by reclusion perpetua to death. A proposed measure to reinstate the death pen-
alty in the country is currently set for plenary debates. Under the proposed measure, three methods may be used in executing the death penalty — hanging, firing squad or lethal injection. Heinous crimes including plunder will be punishable by proposed death penalty. But during a caucus of the majority coalition members in the House of Representatives, an agreement was reached to exclude plunder from crimes that warrant capital punishment. It was the majority’s agreement to relegate plunder to a serious capital offense only punishable with life imprisonment. Plunder remains on the list unless removed when the death penalty bill is tackled during the period of amendments in the plenary. Speaker of the House of Representatives Pantaleon Alvarez maintained that there’s more reason to include plunder among heinous crimes punishable by death following alleged irregularities in contracts involving government officials. Meanwhile, the Senate has suspended public hearings of the death penalty bill over concerns of violations of an international treaty. As a signatory of the Treaty of International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) of the United Nations Human Rights Committee, the Philippines is prevented from carrying out execution as a form of punishment. There are already existing stringent anti-corrup-
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
tion laws that are meant to stem the tide of graft and corrupt officials who brazenly plunder the public treasury. The cruel penalization of erring public officials may not effectively revive the country’s damaged
political existence, but it will ignite zero-tolerance to any form of corruption within the government. This will hold more accountability for people in public office and may pave the way for political stability and sustainable development. (AJPress)
FLYNNGATE: What the Trump administration needs to explain to the American people DONALD TRUMP has bigger problems to worry about than his historic 40 percent approval/55 percent disapproval ratings in the most recent Gallup Poll. His less than a month-old presidency has already been saddled with lawsuits one after another, and then this: the issue about the “resignation” of his senior National Security Adviser Michael Flynn. NO, Mr. President, Flynn’s scandal is NOT less important than who leaked it. Journalists surely will not “move on” despite the resignation of Flynn. This Flynn scandal, has in fact, just opened a can of worms, and more questions beg to be answered. Did you know that Flynn had not been truthful when he denied having
your knowledge talked to the Russian that Flynn had been envoy about easing The Fil-Am dishonest in his dissanctions imposed closures about his by the Obama admin- Perspective talk with the Rusistration for hacking sian diplomat about the U.S. Presidential sanctions? Elections in December What gave Flynn 2016 — when Donald the boldness to Trump was president- Gel SantoS-ReloS talk with the Ruselect and had not been sian diplomat about Putin not having sworn into office? You reportedly denied prior knowl- to worry about the sanctions? Was it edge of this but your office had been coincidental that after the phone calls warned by the Department of Justice between Flynn and the Russian envoy, about this 18 days ago. Why did you Putin did not fight back against the lose “trust” in Flynn just now, after the U.S. sanctions as he had always done Washington Post exposed the scandal? so in the past, and then you tweeted Had the Washington Post not broken gushing over Putin’s smartness for his the news, would it still be business as response? Would this Flynn scandal be related usual between you and Flynn despite
FVR’s truth-telling
SPYBITS
Rachel ReyeS
BaBe G. Romualdez
Former President Fidel V. Ramos
counts for his articulacy. His thoughts have been allowed to ferment and take shape in print before they are given a public airing. Consequently, nothing he says is half-baked and he rarely contradicts himself. His questions to Imelda Marcos are precisely what the public craves to know: “Where is the rest of the hidden wealth? What really happened in August 1983? (He is absolutely dismissive of the lone gunman explanation with regard to the assassination of Benigno Aquino). And, his plea to her to make plain her family’s ambition, seems to be fueled by the anger he feels at the way her children shamelessly keep the military at their beck and call. When he denounces extra-judicial killings, by conjur-
ing up the image of a poor man brandishing a home-made gun, a paltik, before he is sprayed with bullets by heavily armed police officers, he knows, with forensic accuracy, the glaring unfairness of the fight. “An overwhelmingly lethal combat ratio advantage of 5 to 1 versus their obviously poor, scruffy, slipper-clad suspects.” FVR’s column writing, actually jottings, reveals the gradual, occasionally tedious, altogether laborious process of piecing together reflection, knowledge, and the raw material of experience. His prose is sparse, his tone laconic, somewhat emotive, mainly due to his overemphatic punctuation, with sentences sometimes written PAGE A7
coming from within your administration as a “cry for help” as many analysts say? Democrats and some Republican senators are now calling for an investigation into this scandal. The truth based on real facts would have to come out, Mr. President — NOT alternative facts. You owe that to the American people. Welcome to the real world. This ain’t a reality show that you can direct and write a script for high ratings. *** 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
Peter Favila: The next BSP governor?
Analysis
FIDEL V. Ramos’ recent interview with Rappler’s Maria Ressa was a study in sophisticated elder statesmanship. He was cordial and engaging, of course, and kept the talk good-humored and paternal. He didn’t sound the least bit patronizing towards his interlocutor, who seems incapable of giving anyone a hard time and tends to err, rather too often, on the side of pleasant chat. FVR, fortunately, speaks with natural candor and can be pointedly direct, as one would expect of a military man. With half a century’s worth of public service to his name, and always at the epicenter of power, there is not much FVR does not know and has not seen. His insights are so obviously gleaned from formidable experience and, now in his late 80s, from a confidence that he has nothing left to prove. When he takes Imelda Marcos to task, or gives his opinions on President Duterte’s personality, the drug-bust operations, and foreign affairs, it’s clear we are hearing something so incredibly rare these days – the truth from someone who wants to tell it. Much of what FVR says to journalists can be read in his columns that appear in the Manila Bulletin. This is no bad thing. A process clearly ac-
to the Russian hacking which could have undermined the integrity of the election? Would this be the reason why you had been such a big fan of Putin to the point of speaking against the United States just to defend him during your interview on Fox News? What hold does the former KGB official and now president of Russia have over you and your independence as the commander-in-chief and president of the United States? These are just some of the questions that needed to be answered, Mr. President, because the national security of the U.S. is at stake here. It is mind boggling how you now worry about “leaks” when you would praise WikiLeaks before you became president. Could it be that the leaks are
WITH the July 2 retirement of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando “Say” Tetangco drawing near, the rumor mill is going into overdrive that his likely successor is Peter Favila. The former Philippine Stock Exchange chairman comes highly qualified, having made a name in local banking as former head of several banks that include Security Bank, Allied Bank and the Philippine National Bank. A number of banks have endorsed him for the position of BSP governor, expressing confidence that he will do well. Several businessmen also approve of him, pointing to his experience in local banking, plus the fact that he is currently a consultant of the BSP where he is known as a main “troubleshooter” especially for complicated and delicate problems. Of course, one of those who believes in Peter — who finished banking and finance from the University of Sto. Tomas and also took an advanced management program at Wharton – is Pampanga Rep. and Deputy Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who appointed him as secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry during her term as president.
Peter Favila
In November 2015 during the Autumn Imperial Decorations ceremony, the government of Japan conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star on Peter Favila in recognition of his contributions in strengthening the economic relations between Japan and the Philippines. It was during his term as DTI secretary that the bilateral Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) was finally ratified in 2008. Yasay to stay on as DFA secretary Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto “Jun” Yasay was also rumored to be in the running as the next BSP chief following the pronouncement of President Rodrigo Duterte that Senator Alan Peter Cayetano would be the next DFA secretary. But apparently — based on the information we received
— the President wants Jun to stay on as DFA secretary, at least until the end of this year because of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that the Philippines is hosting this year. The 2017 ASEAN summit also marks the 50thfounding anniversary of the regional organization, with the Philippines among the five founding members that also include Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Preparations are already underway with Jun at the forefront – a no mean feat considering the numerous events that will be staged to commemorate the organization’s golden anniversary. Aside from the Leaders’ Summit and ministerial meetings, more than 100 meetings will be held in Metro Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, Laoag, Palawan, Legazpi, Boracay, Iloilo, BaPAGE A8
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Dateline PhiliPPines
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
AFP: NPA suffering tactical defeat Lacson says De Lima may be by Audrey
MorAllo Philstar.com
MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines claimed on Monday, Feb. 13 that communist rebels are suffering a tactical defeat following a spate of kidnappings, encounters and arrests over the past few days. In a press statement, the Armed Forces declared that the New People’s Army (NPA) has suffered defeats in several fronts in different provinces more than a week after President Rodrigo Duterte launched an all-out war against communist guerillas. “And since then, the communist rebels had suffered several tactical defeats and the support of some frightened citizens continues to erode,” the military said. The AFP attributed these advances to “deliberate, surgical, focused and well-planned combat, intelligence and civil-military operations” launched by the military in various areas. The military also asserted that the communist rebels were
losing hold of their men on the ground as demonstrated by the mismatch between National Democratic Front’s (NDF) call for continued peace talks and the rebels’ attacks on civilians and businesses. In Barangay Pangle in Masbate, four NPA members were killed after a 20-minute gunfight at 6:30 am on Sunday, Feb. 12. Elements of the 2IB and 96 military intelligence encountered the rebels while conducting security operations in the area. The troops recovered two M14 rifles, two M16, one m203 and subversive documents following the retreat of the rebels toward the southeast direction. The military also said that two civilians and one solider was killed in an ambushed staged by NPA rebels in Agusan del Norte on February 11 while the soldiers were acting on reports on NPA presence in Santiago town. Three civilians were also seriously wounded when the 10 rebels “indiscriminately fired” government troops.
FVR’s truth-telling PAGE A6 out in full capitals and lavished with question and exclamation marks: “Is this P. Du30’s real ‘war’ on poverty?? Obviously not!! It’s just unexplained killing.” When Duterte said FVR visited him in Davao multiple times, and handed over a “thick list” of names of government officials, police chiefs, and Chinese nationals supposedly involved in the narcotics trade, FVR responded in his column with the compressed refutation that teenagers are guilty of overusing: “No way!!!” He can be amusingly mordant: “The presidency,” he writes, “is no place for panicky, self-centered, onion-skinned, and fragile characters.” On camera, this particular thought, concerning the President’s volatile personality, coalesced into a telling reflection: “[Fear] is the kind of environment in which he grew up. But a lot of his fears are being generated by him [sic]. He is afraid of fear. He is insecure.” FVR’s pivotal role in the EDSA uprising is frequently extolled as a high point of the man’s moral courage, a moment that truly tested his mettle and
displayed his convictions. But as the first and, thus far, only Protestant President the country has known, FVR’s adoption of a radical population policy, which aimed to significantly reduce the country’s population, might better fit this accolade. Just days after his inauguration, in 1992, FVR took on the Catholic Church. Seeking to achieve a per capita income of $1,000 a year by 1998, FVR figured that the population growth rate needed to fall below 2 per cent. He appointed Juan Flavier to the Department of Health. Flavier came with 30 years of experience in rural practice and was a staunch advocate of family planning. Together, FVR and Flavier established “freedom of choice” as the foundation of the government’s family planning program, which aimed to limit family size through the provision of artificial birth control methods. The Church, Flavier asserted, did not own women’s bodies and went on to defend women’s right to information about contraception. This is one of the finest instances of truth-telling that occurred under FVR’s watch. By 1993, FVR and Flavier were pushing for
Other incidents of NPA attacks were also reported on February 11 in Caraga, Davao Oriental and on February 12 in San Fernando, Bukidnon. No casualties were recorded in these two incidents. The AFP also reported that NPA elements abducted four civilans in two separate incidents in Trento, Agusan Del Sur on February 5 and in Moco, Compostella Valley on Febuary 8. On Febuary 12, the Philippine National Police and an intelligence unit of the military arrested an NPA leader in Caloocan City. The leader was identified as Ferdinand Castillo, secretary of the Metro Manila Regional Party Committee. The arrest was done by virtue of a warrant of arrest for double murder and multiple attempted murder charges issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 63 in Calauag, Quezon Province. In Sarangani, six NPA members were arrested, five of whom were carrying high-powered firearms. the use of prophylactics to curb the spread of HIV. The CBCP responded by declaring “total war” on the government. “Contraception was contrary to the will of God,” fulminated the bishops from the pulpit, and issued trenchant pastoral letters. On the orders of Jaime Cardinal Sin, the Church organized protest rallies, denied communion to government workers that tried to implement the family planning program, and threw their tremendous support behind pro-natal politicians. As the historian Robert L. Youngblood notes, FVR was painted as a renegade soldier and decried by Cardinal Sin as the man “who helped Marcos put up the structure of dictatorship”. Sin wasn’t lying. A cousin to Ferdinand Marcos, FVR had served the dictator with unstinting loyalty and devotion throughout the martial law period. He was the enthusiastic chief of the Philippine Constabulary. Was he personally responsible for the savage atrocities, the torture, the disappearances, and the killings that defined the era? On this matter, the normally loquacious, truth-telling FVR is keeping schtum. (rachelagreyes@gmail.com)
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detained beside Revilla, Estrada by dAnA
SiSon
AJPress
SHOULD Senator Leila De Lima be taken into custody over the drug-related charges against her, Senator Panfilo Lacson said she would be detained inside the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame, where two other former senators charged in plunder cases are also confined. Lacson made the comments in response to De Lima’s earlier request for a “safe and secure” detention facility should she be arrested for her alleged links in the proliferation of the illegal drug trade at the National Bilibid Prison (NBP). “Ang irony noon, ‘di ba, kung secure na lugar ang hinahanap baka doon siya matabi (The irony is, if she’s looking for a secure place, she can be placed there). Assuming, ha? We’re not anticipating anything,” Lacson said on Tuesday, February 14. Lacson was referring to former Senators Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. and Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada who were both accused of misusing their Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF) and were presently under detention inside the PNP Custodial Center. Though there is no resolution yet, Lacson pointed out the “irony” that De Lima would be placed next to the two former senators. “Remember meron pang bakanteng bungalow roon (Remember there’s a vacant bungalow there). I’m just thinking aloud na baka doon siya ilagay dahil secure ang lugar (She might be placed there). Yun naman ang hinihingi niya, ’di ba? (That’s what she is requesting, right?)” he said. As justice secretary under the Aquino administration, De Lima filed complaints before the Office of the Ombudsman against government officials allegedly involved in the PDAF scam. Among the senators she filed complaints against were Revilla and Estrada. “Parang paradox, ’di ba? Na siya (De Lima) ang parang primary, hindi naman naging kasangkapan for lack of a better word, reason kung bakit nakulong (sina Estrada at Revilla) kasi siya nagstart ng investigation di ba? Silang tatlo ng COA (Commission on Audit) at Ombudsman (Isn’t it like a paradox? That she was like the primary–not tool, for a lack of better word–reason why those two were
Sen. Leila De Lima
imprisoned, because she started the investigation, right? She, COA, and the Ombudsman), ” Lacson said Earlier on Tuesday, De Lima said she is prepared for the possible “imminent arrest” in relation to the drug cases charged against her. She, however, expressed her fears that she might also become a victim of the “extrajudicial killings” once she is taken into custody. “Sakali lang po mangyari na (Just in case), God forbid, sana ilagay naman ako sa isang lugar na safe and secure ako (I hope they would detain me in a safe and secure place). Kasi marami na hong nangyayari ‘di ba, pinapapatay sa loob ng selda (Because there were already events of people getting getting killed inside the jail), so what is another EJK?” De Lima said. De Lima was presumably referring to the controversial death of former Leyte Mayor Rolando Espinosa Jr., who was charged with the possession of drugs and unlicensed firearms cases. Espinosa was killed in a “firefight” after allegedly resisting arrest at the Baybay, Leyte Sub-Provincial Jail last year. Asked if the Senate could also provide custody for De Lima, Lacson replied: “Wala kaming facilities except siguro sa (We have no other facilities except maybe from the) Office of the Senate Sergeant at Arms. Depende sa consensus ng mga senador at kung papayagan ng judge, assuming ma-issuehan siya ng warrant (It depends on
the consensus of the senators and if permitted by the judge, assuming a warrant is issued).” Senate President Pro Tempore Franklin Drilon said that such decision is up to the court “because at that point, theoretically, she is under the custody of the court.” Earlier this week, Drilon said that the Senate will not allow De Lima’s arrest inside the session hall. “By tradition, we will oppose service of the warrant of arrest inside the session hall. The sanctity of the session hall must be respected,” Drilon told reporters. Taking note that the Senate, however, cannot stop the arrest of De Lima outside the session hall, Drilon insisted: “That is a legal process and the general statement that I can make is that we will see to it the process is followed strictly in accordance with the rule of law.” According to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, the resolution on the five cases filed against De Lima will be out this week. De Lima is facing charges for allegedly violating the following: Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code or the disobedience for summons; Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act; Revised Penal Code, R.A. 3019 or Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act; Presidential Decree 46 or Act Punishing the Receiving and Giving of Gifts of Public Officials and Employees; and R.A. 6713 or Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. n
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Dateline PhiliPPines
february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
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No change in PH-US relations, says ex-envoy by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com
DOGS WILL BE DOGS. A beagle balloon seems to be chasing a race car balloon at the Hot Air Balloon Festival at Clark Freeport in Pampanga. The balloon festival started in 1994. Inquirer.net photo by Lyn Rillon
‘Duterte open to work... PAGE A5
will, you know, being civil.” Pressed if the President is open magma-magandang loob (a show to sitting down with the bishops of goodwill), you know, just work to discuss their differences on it out,” he said. “It’s just a ques- drug-related killings, Abella said, tion of being able to show good- “Let’s take it one step at a time.
Let’s wait.” “Let’s not speculate on how we will be open, but let’s take it one step at a time. First they offer, then we’ll see how the President responds,” he added.
Peter Favila: The next BSP...
PAGE A6 colod, Bohol, Cagayan de Oro and of course, Davao. If Senator Cayetano is to take over the DFA, it could be next year – or maybe not, since the president was supposed to have said that he needs Alan Peter in the Senate. You can lose your money in the bank Banking has been made easy and convenient through online banking with account holders able to conduct transactions practically anywhere. However, this can also be risky because somebody can tamper with your account and conduct unauthorized withdrawals. This is what happened to our friend Roberto “Tito” de Venecia and his wife who had small accounts at the Bank of America branch in California as emergency funds whenever they
visit the US. Tito said all transactions were conducted over the counter at the bank branch and received statements up until 2010, after which he did not receive any further statements or notices. He wrote several letters to BoA inquiring about their accounts’ status, but these went unanswered. Imagine his surprise, therefore, when during a visit to the bank branch in California the other year, he was referred to a “personal banker” who told him that the accounts no longer exist — with the balance cleaned out through repeated online withdrawals from the Philippines. The bank said they may have been victims of identity fraud and their accounts had been tampered — despite the fact that Tito never registered for online services. Bank of Amer-
ica has been very unresponsive and seems to be doing nothing about the theft. Calls to the bank on the number given by the “personal banker” are either unanswered or just give a recorded message. Reports indicate that the Bank of America’s online system went haywire sometime in 2011 with other users able to see the account details of other customers when they log in. Worse, the bank did not even notify its depositors about what was happening. Tito de Venecia says his experience should serve as a warning — and lesson — to other depositors that they should not leave their accounts inactive for long periods because other people — perhaps even insiders — could gain access and take all their money from the bank. (Philstar.com)
DESPITE the ups and downs, the bedrock of Philippine-US relations is solid with no signs of fundamental change in bilateral agreements or abandonment by Washington, former US ambassador Charles Salmon said. Although the element of predictability is questionable with the advent of President Duterte and US President Donald Trump, he remains optimistic about the relationship of both nations. “I don’t think that there’s going to be any fundamental change in the basic realization on the Philippines’ part and our part. The bilateral relationship remains important and we’ll continue to be important and that we’re going to continue to get to work together for stability in the Asia Pacific,” Salmon, an adjunct senior fellow at the East-West Center and former foreign policy advisor to the commander in chief of the US Pacific Command, told Filipino journalists in an experts’ briefing on
Philippine-US relations. In terms of economic relationship, he said the facts and figures of American foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Philippines are overwhelming and that the close relationship of Filipino and American citizens is very notable. “So, there’s a sort of familial tie between the US and the Philippines. In terms of years of work, the US and the Philippines do share important values in a way that could never be said in a relationship with China or Russia, which is one of things President Duterte brought about in terms of alternative security arrangement,” Salmon said. “It’s going to have this kind of ups and downs but I think the bedrock of it is very, very solid,” he added. Denny Roy, a senior fellow at the East-West Center’s research program, said the effect of the period of stability and instability would lead to a shakeup in international systems and that this will be followed by a change in the
rules and norms of countries. “We’re still in a stage where we’re trying to figure out what the US policy would be toward the Philippines. Despite what Mr. Trump said during the presidential run up, we’re not seeing US signs of abandonment in the region,” Roy added. Gerard Finn, director of EastWest Center’s Pacific Islands development program, does not also see any “fundamental change in Philippines-US relationship over time,” noting that about 5,000 Filipinos immigrate to the US every year. However, he believes that both former president Ferdinand Marcos and Duterte have weakened the institutions of government and the rule of law. The question, he added, lies in the predictability of the outcomes in Duterte’s policies in the long run and on whether the support he has would continue when people start to see that the FDI has diminished and the judiciary and law enforcement are weakened.
Sueno open to be replaced by Marcos as DILG chief by Dana
SioSon AJPress
PHILIPPInE Interior Secretary Ismael “Mike” Sueno said that he is not offended by the rumors suggesting that he might soon be replaced as the head of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). In a statement on Wednesday, February 15, Sueno took note that it is within president Rodrigo Duterte’s “power, wisdom and discretion to appoint members of his Cabinet.” “We serve at the pleasure of the president,” Sueno said. The interior secretary made the remarks amid rumors suggesting that Duterte was preparing to appoint Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as the new chief of DILG. “With the information being floated about the change at the helm of the DILG, I take no offense whatsoever. It is business as usual for me as I dispense my duties and functions with the blessings of President Duterte,” Sueno added. Sought for comments, the Malacañang said that it does not have any knowledge on the matter. “May narinig ka na ganyan (Did you hear something like that)? Ako wala (I don’t),” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said
Former Sen. Bongbong Marcos
in a briefing on Tuesday, February 14. Abella then added, “Frankly, I don’t have knowledge of that. As far as I’m concerned, I have not received anything.” On the other hand, should Marcos get appointed as the new DILG chief, Albay Representative Edcal Lagman said that the senator has to withdraw the poll protest he has filed against former Camarines Sur Representative and now Vice President Leni Robredo. In the May 2016 vice presidential election, Robredo won the position with only around 263,000 votes more than Marcos. Marcos accused Robredo of committing a massive electoral fraud. “He can accept but (if) he ac-
A UNQUE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
AT MONTEMARIA ESTATES, BATANGAS CITY, PHILIPPINES
WINDING ITS WAY SOON
A PROJECT OF
cepts, he is constrained to withdraw his petition. The court has several rulings on that. Tumanggap ka ng posisyon (You accepted a position) why are you still pursuing a case?” Lagman explained. Last December, Duterte revealed that Marcos initially wanted to head the Department of Tourism (DOT). “I do not want to make promises and I will not even say an assumption for the public until I have the wherewithals in my hands,” Duterte told Cnn Philippines. Marcos, however, cannot assume a new government position until the middle of 2017 as the law forbids appointing losing candidates for any Cabinet posts one year after election.
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
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COMMUNITY
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
CJ
Journal
Your Immigration Solution Devin Connolly THE Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has refused to reinstate President Trump’s ban on refugees and citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the U.S. Therefore, refugees and citizens of these countries will continue to be admitted to the U.S. for now. This is not a final decision on whether President Trump’s Executive Order was lawful, but rather simply a decision that prohibits President Trump’s administration from enforcing the travel ban until after the courts have ruled on whether the Executive Order itself is lawful. The government has multiple options they may pursue as a result of the Ninth Circuit’s decision. One such option is filing an appeal with the Supreme Court of the U.S. Since the Supreme Court currently only has 8 justices, if they were to issue a 4-4 decision, the Ninth Circuit’s decision halting the temporary ban would remain in effect. A second potential option would be for the Trump administration to issue a new Executive Order. President Trump can rewrite the Executive Order in an attempt to have it comply with existing law. This decision was clearly a setback for President Trump. However, he is continuing to move forward with his desire for undocumented immigrants to be quickly deported back to their native countries. There are reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers conducting coordinated attacks on homes and business in southern California in a search for undocumented immigrants. This has understandably caused many people to be in great fear. The affected
There may be a solution for immigrants despite travel bans and raids
families and businesses will include far more than simply undocumented immigrants; it will also affect U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, children and the elderly, mother and fathers, etc. With potential travel bans, raids, and possible more Executive Orders on the way, this is not an easy time for immigrants and their families. There is substantial fear about what will happen in the coming days and months. Will they or a loved one be deported? If they are apprehended, will they have an opportunity to see a judge or will they immediately be deported? For undocumented immigrants, now is the time to speak with an immigration attorney and do everything you can to resolve your immigration status. There may very well be a solution for you about which you are unaware. You may be eligible for a green card based on a family relationship, based on a petition from an employer, or based on your fear of returning to your native country. There are also many other ways of possibly obtaining lawful immigration status in the U.S. that are less common and about which many people are unaware. These include obtaining a green card after being the victim of a crime, assisting law enforcement in investigating a crime, etc. For people who are already permanent residents, now is the time to consider becoming a U.S. citizen. Having a green card is a wonderful thing, but it does not carry with it the rights of U.S. citizenship. In addition to things like not being able to vote, permanent residents can lose their lawful status and be deported. While it is true that
permanent residents are most commonly deported for criminal offenses, that is not always the case. It is also possible to lose your green card for spending too much time outside of the U.S., etc. In addition, as we have seen over the last several days, returning to the U.S. from a trip abroad could be significantly more challenging for permanent residents. There are reports that green card holders were pressured to abandon their permanent resident status upon their arrivals at U.S. airports last week, simply because of their country of birth. It is a very uncertain time right now for undocumented immigrants and their beloved family members. There are Executive Orders being issued, raids being conducted, and court decision being issued discussing the legality of travel bans, with many more court decision still likely to come. Try and remove as much uncertainty from your life as possible by resolving your immigrant status today – consult an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney about applying for a green card of becoming a U.S. citizen. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
The DICT launched its Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting (DTTB) migration plan that aims to shift the television broadcasting in the country from analog transmission to digital in the next six years. Philstar.com/File photo by Catherine
talavera ManilaTimes.net
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) aims to have 95 percent of the country’s households switch to digital television transmission by 2023. On Wednesday, February 15, DICT launched its Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting (DTTB) migration plan that aims to shift the television broadcast-
ing in the country from analog transmission to digital in the next six years. DICT Secretary Rodolfo Salalima said the migration from analog to digital was due to the evolution of the country’s communication systems. National Telecommunications Commission deputy commissioner Edgardo Cabarios said TV networks need to consider the cost of reaching its consumers in the rural areas. ABS-CBN head of Digital Ter-
restrial Television (DTT) Chinky de Castro-Alcedo said the shift to digital transmission would cost the network a lot of investment. “To shift from analog to digital, the investment required is quite massive. A single transmitter already runs in the million,” Alcedo said. Alcedo said the company would also incur additional costs in maintaining the transmitters. GMA Network CFO Felipe Yalong, on the other hand the firm
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Foreign businessmen urged to support Philippine government by riChmond
S. merCurio
Philstar.com
Francis Chua
MANILA, Philippines — Foreign businessmen who have nothing good to say about the country should just help the government instead of magnifying local issues, a local business leader said. “I always believe that let the Filipinos talks about the country.
Foreigners don’t have to make the issues bigger,” International Chamber of Commerce Philippines chairman Francis Chua told The STAR. “We welcome foreigners when they try to help our country. Those who do not believe too much in our country, it will be better if they just leave it to our government and our President
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february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
The CTV Files aurora Vega-Buzon, eSq. CARLOS is a married child petitioned by his US citizen father. His priority date is October 30, 1992 and it’s just a matter of months before his visa becomes available. Unfortunately, his father who is 87 years old, suffered a heart attack after Christmas and is now in a care facility. He applied for a tourist visa so he can visit his father but his application was denied. His family wonders if there is a way for Carlos to see his ailing father. Foreign nationals or aliens who have urgent medical and family needs like Carlos —but cannot obtain visas from embassies abroad — can try to apply for a Humanitarian Parole. Humanitarian Parole is highly discretionary and is not an immigration benefit. It is considered as an “extraordinary measure, sparingly used only in urgent or emergency circumstances, by which the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security may permit an inadmissible
Community Journal
Humanitarian Parole for urgent medical and family cases alien temporarily to enter or remain in the United States.” It is “not intended to bypass immigration procedures or avoid visa processing procedures and timelines” and is granted only upon clear evidence that the “parole applicant has exhausted visa processes, including any waivers to grounds of inadmissibility.” Section 212(d)(s)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) authorizes the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to “in his discretion, parole into the United States temporarily under such conditions as he may prescribe only on a case-bycase basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit any alien applying for admission into the United States,.. .” In practice, the Secretary’s parole authority is delegated to the 3 bureaus of the Homeland Security — the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — who all exercise parole authority concurrently. Humanitarian Parole is cat-
egorized based on which agency will receive and adjudicate the application. The following cases must be submitted to the USCIS: 1. Urgent medical, family, and related needs; and 2. Aliens who will participate in civil proceedings where all parties are private litigants. On the other hand, ICE will be the adjudicating authority for the following cases: 1. Aliens who will participate in administrative, judicial, or legislative proceedings, and/or investigations, whether at the federal, state, local, or tribal level of government; 2. Aliens in removal proceedings or who have final orders, as well as aliens granted deferred action by ICE at any point after the commencement of removal proceedings, regardless of whether the alien is within or outside of the US; 3. Aliens who will participate in events hosted by an international organization located within the US (e.g., UN, OAS); 4. Section 7 parole (50 USC 403[h]); and 5. Intelligence. Aliens who are registered sources of a member of the US Intelligence Community and whose
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond
Abortion and our throwaway society
Monette aDeVa Maglaya
“All that is necessary for the triumph
The 44th Annual March for Life was held in Washington DC on January 27, 2017, a week after Donald J. Trump and Michael R. Pence were sworn into office as President and Vice President on January 20, 2017. It was a historical turn of events and bodes well for the defense of the unborn. Hundreds of thousands marched in the event and were visibly moved by the fact that Vice President Mike Pence at the suggestion of President Trump graced the occasion with a wonderful, prayerful speech. Vice President Mike Pence, a Christian with a deep abiding faith, and Kelly Anne Conway, a Catholic and Senior Counselor to President Trump both spoke at the event. President Trump gave his full support and challenged the liberal media to give the annual event full coverage. As may be expected,only Fox gave the event the coverage it warranted. It was the first time u PAGE CJ3 that the highest office holders in the land stood with those who had been fighting the evil of abortion for years. There is light coming out to defeat the darkness. One of the first executive orders President Trump signed was to defund international abortion efforts by Planned Parenthood. Pope Francis has spoken on the issue of abortion. He has broken what many Catholic conservatives quietly observed to be his “silence” on the matter in as many months of his assuming the papacy. Personally, I think the Holy Spirit is strong with this Pope and his timing is flawless. In his “State of the World” address directed to diplomats accredited to the Vatican, he said, “It is horrific even to think that there are children, victims of
of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
— Edmund Burke
abortion, who will never see the light of day.” It was the pope’s toughest and most forceful stand on this issue. He continued, “Unfortunately, what is thrown away is not only food and dispensable objects, but often human beings themselves, who are discarded as unnecessary.” Pope Francis has voiced what many Christians believe. The gift of life is from God and that LIFE begins at the moment of conception. For many, there can be no equivocation on this matter. There is no wiggle room, no hemming and hawing. You are either for it or against it. Abortion is nothing less than the murder of innocents — a most grievous offense against the Holy Spirit from whom all life emanates. It is the duty of all who hold human life sacred to fight for it and uphold moral laws that guarantee the life of future generations. Do not be fooled by the demagoguery of evil when abortion is framed and termed as the dishonest “war on women” or given the disingenuous term “pro choice.” Do not be fooled by snake oil salesmen and think that Planned Parenthood is a benign organization when it actually promotes abortion in the guise of “good, responsible” parenting. These labels deceive. Let’s call a spade a spade. Pro-choice is pro-abortion. Period. No ifs and buts about it. Your choice ends when another defenseless human life is part of the equation. If you didn’t know it yet, there was a war being insidiously
waged against all Judaeo-Christian faiths by all means possible in the last 8 years, via legislation, government policies and a leftist, liberal American society and its tools. Thank God the tide is turning when the highest leadership of the land puts his weight behind the case for life, especially that of the unborn. The erosion of our religious liberties has been on full throttle since past leaders, because of political correctness and lack of moral courage, could not give a full throated defense of this basic liberty. Ordinary Christians have been on their knees for a long time and have been fighting back and shoring up the first line of defense for human rights and religious freedom. Thank God for the miracle that is happening these days. God is answering our fervent prayers. On our part, we need to pray even more fervently without ceasing. God chooses people to make His will known. If you are one of them, let God’s Spirit suffuse you to move you in many ways — by fervent, unceasing prayers and fasting, by the printed word or the internet and better yet, to engage actively one-on-one in conversation to fire up family and friends within your daily orbit about the importance of this issue. For those who can and have the time and wherewithal to be on the front lines, there are pro-life brigades that actively discourage women from going through abortion and instead talk them into considering adoption
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Our food and our body
Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS THE clamor for a healthier lifestyle has transformed society into more conscious, more intelligent, and more discriminating consumers of food and food ingredients. Truth in food labeling is a law that is strictly implemented, especially in the United States. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions on this subject. Why are some meats irradiated? Some companies irradiate their meats to prevent food-borne illnesses. At the legally prescribed level, irradiation is effective and safe. However, some people are uncomfortable about it. In the United States, the Radura symbol (international symbol for radiation) must be on the label of foods that are irradiated, together with the wording “treated by radiation” or “treated with radiation.” Science has shown over the past several decades that the irradiated food items are safe for consumption. Does MSG have to be listed too? Yes, monosodium glutamate food taste enhancer (Vet-Sin) must be printed on the label of food items containing such ingredient. Some people are allergic to MSG, and some others may react to it with headache, sensation of chest tightness or
and/or warm flushing sensation all over. MSG is commonly used in Chinese restaurants, where a special request from the diner to the waiters should preclude its use in the cooking of the food ordered. How long can an unopened can of food be stored safely? Canned low acid foods, like meats, pasta, spinach, corn, can be safely stored in a dry, cool, pantry for two years, while high acid foods (foods packed in vinegar based marinades, fruits, and tomato products), one year to 18 months. One caviat: If in doubt, throw it out! Do yogurts contain live cultures? Most yogurts on the market do, in varying amount, but the average is about 10 million Lactobacillus acidophilus, 10 million Bifid cultures, and over 10 million Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus cultures, per gram. There are now probiotic capsules in blister packs not requiring refrigeration which has 10 Billion L. acidophilus in each capsule, to be taken once a day. Why are soybeans good for us? Soybeans are the richest natural source of isoflavones, phytochemicals that are also found in tofu, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, some herbs. Isoflavones are phytoestrogens, and beneficial to the body when consumed regularly by lowering the incidence of certain forms of cancer and heart diseases.
What is flash pasteurization? This is a process used in food “sterilization” to kill food-borne pathogens, utilizing 170-180 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 seconds. If the label says fat-free, is it really cholesterol-free? No, when the food label says fat-free, and you see oil in the product, it only means the product has less than one half gram of fat per serving. This is in consonance with the official FDA labeling definition of fat-free. This is the reason we should all be familiar with the system. What are trans fat? Adding hydrogen to unsaturated vegetable oil results in trans fat. The hydrogen crosses the chemical bond and the liquid oil becomes solid in room temperature, like lard. This is also found in foods with hydrogenated oils and naturally seen in meat and dairy products. What is the source of canola oil? Originally, canola oil came from Canada, as an altered form of Rapeseed oil, but not Rapeseed oil. Canola has less saturated fats compared to non-virgin olive oil, is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and is high in monosaturated fats that have been proven to lower the bad cholesterol (LDL, low density lipoproteins). Virgin olive oil first, and Canola oils second, are the preferred cooking oil, followed by safflower is next. The other
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Business News SSS seeks Congress help in expanding investment by Mayvelin
U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net
THE Social Security System (SSS) is urging Congress to prioritize laws that will expand the pension funds’ capacity to invest, particularly in public-private partnerships, in line with the new thrust to use its members’ contributions as capital for infrastructure development. In a statement on Tuesday, February 14, SSS Chair Dean Amado Valdez said this idea will directly benefit the working class who will own a stake in infrastructure projects. “For the first time, SSS funds will be used in profitable projects nationwide. This new thrust has been motivated by the clamor of a higher pension and to ensure that the fund is sustainable in perpetuity,” Valdez said. The fund is pushing for amendments to its Charter, specifically on the conservative provisions on investing capacity of the Social Security Commission. The SSS Charter limits the powers of the commission to invest reserve funds. At present, the SSS could only invest in private securities (40
percent), housing (35 percent), real estate (30 percent), shortand medium-term member loans (10 percent), government financial institutions and corporations (30 percent), infrastructure projects (30 percent), foreign currency denominated investments (7.5 percent) and any particular industry that the commission deems profitable. SSS also plans to diversify its assets by directly investing up to 25 percent ownership in a wide range of industries, including infrastructure projects like toll
roads, real estate, utilities and lotto operations. Valdez said the average return on investments (ROI) was 7 percent last year, but the pension fund intends to raise that to 15 to 20 percent next year, in view of the enhancements in investment practices and new investing projects and activities that it plans to carry out in the coming months. “But we need the help of Congress to pass the SS Law amendments that will allow the SS Commission to execute these new investments” he said. n
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Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have taken into custody a 23-year-old man brought to the US as a young child, but had applied for, and was GRANTED, Deferred Action for Child Arrivals (DACA), with his work permit valid until 2018! This was one of the first times a DACA applicant has been taken into custody, and it is creating anxiety among the over 700,000 young people who had applied for DACA and their families. This is especially true after other reports of ICE raids throughout the country. According to ICE, they went to this young man’s home to arrest his father. While there, ICE agents questioned this young man, whom ICE described as a “self – admitted gang member.” As a result of being a gang member, he was an enforcement
Community Journal
right in front of abortion clinics around the country. Are you a CINO? Refuse to be one. CINO is the acronym for Catholic or Christian In Name Only, just like a few of our elected politicians in the highest levels of power who have repeatedly sacrificed their integrity and perhaps, even their souls, for political gain and expediency. There are well-oiled foundations in conjunction with huge pharmaceutical firms that back Planned Parenthood and abortion globally. Refuse to be intimidated. Our story is still being written. Spoiler alert: in the end, GOD WINS, GOOD WINS. Catholicism is not a cafeteria religion where we can choose only those tenets that are convenient for us. The moral issue of abortion far transcends any earthly concerns. The battered economy, the malingering war on terror, eroded national security, weakened global standing, taxes, energy independence, health care— all these are important issues of our time. But as history will attest, all these trials and tribulations will
priority, and should not have the protection of DACA. According to this young man’s lawyers, he “unequivocally denies” he has been in a gang. Instead, he was repeatedly pressured by ICE agents to falsely admit he was a gang member. He has no criminal record and had twice filed for and was approved for DACA It is unclear if the Trump administration will now target DACA recipients as enforcement priorities. President Trump has stated that, “They [DACA applicants] are here illegally. They shouldn’t be very worried. I do have a big heart. We’re going to take care of everybody. We’re going to have a very strong border.” However, there are no details yet of how the Trump administration is going to “take care” of DACA recipients. Let’s hope Congress will pass the DREAM Act, which would be a law providing a pathway to legalization. DACA was merely
a program or executive action brought by Pres. Obama when Congress failed to pass the Dream Act. Still, it is worrisome that ICE agents are targeting DACA applicants, because when this program was rolled out (or introduced), the federal government more or less promised DACA recipients would not be targeted for deportation, nor would they be considered an enforcement priority. After all, to be eligible for DACA, you have to be fingerprinted and be crime – free. Moreover, a person would be an enforcement priority for gang activity only if they were convicted of an offense in connection with gang related activities, not for merely being affiliated with a gang. Let’s just hope this is merely a fluke, and this DACA recipient will soon be released, and allowed to remain in the US under his grant of deferred action
be overcome in due season. Our problems in the material world will find resolution and eventually come to pass. Consider the dark times a period of testing. God wants to see where His people stand on this crucial matter. God wants to see if we are still His people. Sometimes God gives us seasons of darkness and times of trials and tribulations so that we can see and appreciate the light. Across the country, millions are silently bending their knees in prayer and humble supplication. True Christians know there is no force more powerful on earth than humble prayer. When we choose to stand with God, the darkness lifts and we become thankful for light and life when dawn breaks. We begin to see with clear eyes the abundant gifts that have been given to us so generously by a loving God. We begin to grow within us grateful, humble hearts. We begin to see and feel God’s love. We begin to live humbly as testaments of that love to our fellow human beings. A crisis of faith of this magnitude knocks us out of our high
Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
funding, Department of Trade and Industry for giving incentives to small scale broadcasters, Department of Environment and the National Resources for e-waste management, National Economic and Development Authority for economic impact, and Department of Social Welfare and Development for financial subsidy in purchasing digital set top boxes. n
Foreign businessmen urged to support…
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to do their job. Mahirap yun e, hindi naman tayo nakikialam sa kanila, bakit sila makikialam sa atin? (It’s hard because we are not meddling with their affairs, so why should they meddle with ours?),” he added. Last week, members of the Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC) of the Philippines expressed concern over reports high-ranking police were behind the kidnapslay of Korean businessman Jee Ick-joo at police headquarters in Camp Crame last October. For the JFC, the incident has made them start to doubt the ability of local authorities in ensuring their safety, as well as those of local businessmen and residents at large in the Philippines.
With their peace and order and safety guaranteed by the authorities, the group said the “kidnapping and brutal killing of Jee Ick-joo puts these expected guarantees in question.” While local businessmen also condemn the killing, Chua said it should not lead the business community to lose faith in the government. “We should not worry too much about it. We should worry if the government does not do anything and tolerate it. The main fact that the government is doing something about it, that means to say our government is working,” he said. “If the government closes an eye and turn away, then we should be very worried. The
Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an
active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-
client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES
America
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DICT targets shift to digital broadcasting… long said. In addition to investment costs, Cabarios noted it is the smaller networks that would have trouble in switching to digital transmission. The DTTB migration plan is in partnership with several agencies such as National Telecommunications Commission for implementation and regulation, Department of Finance for
until 2018. Let’s further hope President Trump and Congress will finally address the issue of young people by passing the DREAM Act. ***
Calendar of Events across
chewing gums or mouthwashes, etc. Stevia leaf extract is now the PAGE CJ2 t popular choice sugar substitute. als? so-called vegetable or corn oils Why are non-diet drinks unThe various “flake” cereals are not as healthy. (cornflakes, rice flakes, choco- healthy? What are essential fatty ac- flavored ones) are high in sugars Regular pop beverages are not ids? and much less on fiber. These healthy drinks because they are These are fatty acids that are are carbohydrates with high toxic to the body, besides their important for our body but which glycemic indices and not rec- high sugar content. They are our body cannot produce, unlike ommended. Wheat, bran cere- the worst enemies of overweight fats, cholesterol and triglycerides als, oat meal, are the best. And people trying to control their which our liver can synthesize. the same thing with wheat bread poundage. Children are especialWe must therefore get our es- being better than regular white ly advised not to drink pop bevsential fatty acids from the food bread, and brown rice superior erages, not only for its effect on we eat. The two types are lino- to white rice. blood sugar and body weight but lenic acid, an omeg-3 fatty acid, Is sugar-free food devoid of for its bad effects on their teeth. and linoleic acid, an omega-6 sugar? The global sales of soft drinks fatty acid. Safflower, sunflower The name would make one has come down, while the sale of and corn are rich in linoleic acid, think so, but, unless the label says sparkling water is spiraling upwhile sardines, salmon, albacore “zero” sugar, the product could wards. Indeed, the best beverage tuna, herring, and flaxseed oil have sugar in it, in spite of the is really the healthy and refreshhave abundant linolenic (omega- label. The official FDA rule says ing filtered water. 3 fatty) acids. *** if the product contains less than Is oat meal really good for one half gram sugar per serving, Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac us? Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and it may be labeled “sugar-free.” One of the healthiest breakWhat are malitol, sorbitol, chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to fast foods is oat meal, better and xylitol and manitol? 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, healthier than eggs and bacon/ These are sugar alcohols (not where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus ham/sausages, etc. Together with related to alcoholic drinks), which in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. fruits in the morning, oat meal, are used as artificial sweeteners, He is a Fellow of the American College of like wheat and bran cereals, are used by many, especially diabet- Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, health food items that lower our ics. They are absorbed by the and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular cholesterol, make our bowels reg- body more slowly (lower glyce- Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the ular and reduce the incidence of mic index), which is good. They Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) heart diseases and malignancies, also promote lesser dental car- humanitarian foundation in the United States. like cancer of the colon. ries compared to regular sugar. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: How about the “flake” cere- These are also used in sugar-free scalpelpen@gmail.com
had already set aside a budget for its shift towards digital transmission. Yalong said the company has earmarked P415 million to initially cover digital transmissions in Mega Manila. “We don’t have any specific plans yet. What is definite is we will be able to come out with DDT signal within the year,” Ya-
LEADING U.S. IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL WILL DISCUSS U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP’S CONTROVERSIAL EXECUTIVE ORDERS. With the election of Donald Trump as President, millions of people now live in uncertain times. President Trump declared to deport all 11 million illegal aliens during his campaign. Atty. Gurfinkel will discuss and explain some of the recent executive orders, leaked memos, and proposals being circulated, and what people may come to expect (and fear) in the upcoming months. Watch this enlightening encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC.
horse of complacency. We find active member of the State Bar of California out who we really are, what we and New York. All immigration services are (Advertising Supplement) are made of and in humbly seek- provided by, or under the supervision of, an ing God’s help and with the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, we find the courage to take a stand. Times like these are a mirror. They reveal us to ourselves, to our brethren and to God. The issue of abortion is fundamental to our humanity and our connection to divinity. Our decision to take it down or uphold it will reverberate for centuries beyond our time. Abortion strikes at the root of our essence as human beings. It is evil. Without action on our parts to confront this evil, it will prevail. As Edmund Burke once said, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to f e b R UA Ry 1 8 do nothing.” Continue to fight for the unFree parenting class in Eagle Rock, CA born — the most defenseless of Come to a free parenting class in Eagle Rock on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. It will be all creatures, a call to preserve held at the Eagle Rock Lutheran Church at 5032 Maywood Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90041. To the life of thinking, feeling, spiriRSVP, please call (323) 304-9898. tual being in human form. ***
Our food and our…
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DACA recipient taken into ICE custody
Abortion and our throwaway…
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
main fact the government is solving the issue that means to say we should believe in the government because they are not lying,” Chua added. Outside of the recent Department of Environment and Natural Resources order for the closure of nearly two dozen mining firms in the country which spooked some international firms, Chua said the Philippine business environment has been generally getting positive feedbacks from foreign investors. “Actually, we have so many positive feedbacks,” he said, noting that a group of Chinese investors are bound to visit the country later this month to explore business opportunities in the Philippines. n
Small Business Saturday workshop in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Want to open a business in Los Angeles County but don’t know where to start? Small Business Saturday is for you! The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) will show you: how to become an entrepreneur; steps to opening a business; where to seek financing for your business; latest information about business taxes; how to obtain a business license; library resources for small businesses and more! Join the DCBA for a workshop on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Stevenson Ranch Library at 25950 The Old Road, Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381. The workshop is presented in partnership with Supervisor Kathyrn Barger of the Fifth District. The event is free but space is limited. Registration is requested at http://lacountyptac.ecenterdirect.com/events.
f e b R UA Ry 2 1
Civil Liberties under Trump forum in Eagle Rock, CA Hear how the American Civil Liberties Union and allied organizations are fighting back against the administration of President Donald Trump on Tuesday, February 21 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Eagle Rock, CA. Speakers include Tanzila “Taz” Ahmed of 18MillionRising; Betty Hung of Asian Americans Advancing Justice-LA; Sharon Kyle, ACLU SoCal National Board Rep; and Aiha Nguyen, board member of the ACLU-SoCal Pasadena/Foothills Chapter. The event will be held at LA Filipino United Church of Christ at 5080 N. Maywood Ave., Eagle Rock, CA. The event is free and open to the public. Please contact joana.amador@gmail. com or (213) 434-4643.
MARCH 6
Talk and book signing with Susan Quimpo, author of “Subversive Lives” in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey Come see Susan Quimpo, one of the authors of “Subversive Lives” on Monday, March 6 at the Free Public Library of Hasbrouck Heights from 6 to 8 p.m. “Subversive Lives” is a memoir by eight siblings (plus one by marriage) who dedicated themselves to the anti-Marcos resistance in the Philippines. Quimpo will talk about her personal experience during the Marcos years. Books will be available for sale. A book signing will follow after the talk. The Free Public Library of Hasbrouck Heights is located at 320 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604.
MARCH 9
Talk and book signing with Susan Quimpo, author of “Subversive Lives” in New York Come see Susan Quimpo, one of the authors of “Subversive Lives” on Thursday, March 9 at the 67th Street New York Public Library from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. “Subversive Lives” is a memoir by eight siblings (plus one by marriage) who dedicated themselves to the anti-Marcos resistance in the Philippines. Quimpo will talk about her personal experience during the Marcos years. A book signing will follow after the talk. The New York Public Library is located at 328 E 67th St. (between 1st and 2nd Ave.), New York, NY 10065.
MARCH 11 JA N UA Ry 24
CSFLU to hold dinner-dance in Brea, CA The City of San Fernando La Union Association (CSFLU) will hold its annual dinnerdance at the Embassy Suites in Brea, CA on March 11. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. For more information, please call Vangie So, president of the association at (626) 485-3110.
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com
Humanitarian Parole for urgent medical and…
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parole furthers the National Intelligence mission, or aliens whose parole is sought by the Department of State Cooperative Threat Reduction Program or by the Intelligence Community. The above list is non-exhaustive and USCIS will adjudicate all other parole applications that are not otherwise assigned to ICE and/or the CBP. Only a foreign national or alien who is outside the United States can apply for Humanitarian Parole. Anyone may file the application - the parole applicant himself, a sponsoring relative, an attorney, or any other interested individual or organization. The application must be accompanied by supporting documentation of
the emergency or urgent nature of the applicant’s circumstances, and proof that applicant has tried to secure a visa and/or applied for waiver of inadmissibility but was denied. In cases of medical emergencies, there must be an accompanying medical certificate regarding the diagnosis; lack of appropriate treatment in the home country or neighboring country; duration and cost of treatment in the United States; ability to pay for the treatment; and evidence of strong ties to the home country to guarantee applicant’s return to his/her home country. An initial grant of parole is only for a set period of time that corresponds with the length of the emergency or humanitarian situation, but not to exceed one
(1) year. However, an extension may be requested. Humanitarian Parole does not give a parolee any permanent immigration status and does not authorize a parolee to work in the United States. *** Atty. Aurora Vega-Buzon is a partner in Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorneyclient relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 495-8088; auvega@ctvattys.com (Advertising Supplement)
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february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
PeoPle & events
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Alamedans join Philippine Medical Mission to Dumaguete City ALAMEDA,Calif. — Over 170 doctors, nurses, health educators and volunteers from Northern CA have just completed a fiveday medical mission to the Philippines, providing much needed medical, dental and surgical services to over 9,000 low income residents from Dumaguete and neighboring towns in the Negros Oriental province. This was the first of many collaborations that have been initiated as a result of the sister city relationship between Alameda and Dumaguete. Three Alameda residents and members of the Alameda Sister City Association (ASCA), Vice President Cynthia Bonta, Board Director Flor Ventanilla, and Dr. Maria Araceli De Guzman. participated in the mission which was organized by the Philippine Medical Society of Northern California (PMSNC) which conducts large scale medical missions annually to impoverished areas in the Philippines. In 2015, Dumaguete was selected to be the site of the medical society’s 40th mission site after then-Dumaguete Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria – now a Philippine congress person - visited Alameda to initiate a sister city agreement. Alameda Sister City Vice President, Ms. Bonta, who serves as chairperson of the AlamedaDumaguete Sister City Committee of ASCA, reports that this was the largest mission to go to that area. The Bay Area and Northern California based volunteers also provided medical trainings to their Philippine counterparts in addition to providing the free medical services. Two Manilabased surgeons also joined their U.S. colleagues from Northern California. which included 35 world class surgeons in urology, ophthalmology, plastics, orthopedics, and obstetrics. The Alameda side of the sister city partnership worked side by side with the local committees to host the 170 volunteers. Each mission takes two years to plan: the Medical Society recruited physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals who were willing to volunteer their time including paying for their own air fare and expenses; and solicited donations of medical supplies, equipment, and funds. The host city took responsibility for outreach and prescreening of patients; securing
EMPLOYMENT
New Presidio Visitor Center debuts Saturday, Feb. 25
Negros Oriental Chinese Chamber of Commerce president Eduard Du (l) who acted as liaison between the province, city, and the mission delegation pauses to pose with ASCA Vice President Cynthia Bonta (seated in blue) and other Medical Mission volunteers at the outpatient staging area.
Alamedan and ASCA board member Flor Ventanilla helps patient with the correct prescription glasses donated by Bay Area residents.
Dynamic new focal point introduces the Presidio experience to locals and visitors alike PRESIDIO OF SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — The Presidio of San Francisco, once a military installation that defended the Golden Gate for centuries, is taking a major leap forward in welcoming the public to what has become one of America’s most unique and surprising national parks. On Saturday, February 25, 2017, the William Penn Mott, Jr. Presidio Visitor Center celebrates its grand opening, creating a dynamic new focal point for park goers to discover all that the 1,500-acre oasis in the heart of urban San Francisco has to offer. The building is rich in history, but the visitor center is about the future, welcoming new audiences to a second century for the national parks. Exhibits in the Presidio Visitor Center are some of the most state-of-the-art in the national park system. A digital, interactive table in English, Chinese and Spanish, invites visitors to make connections among people, places, and events that have shaped the Presidio across two centuries. Other exhibits showcase the history and natural setting of the park’s four major regions: the Main Post (the cultural heart of the Presidio), the Golden Gate (iconic views), Crissy Field (recreation), and the Southern Wilds (nature exploration). While millions of people have discovered aspects of the Presidio, there hasn’t been a place for visitors to get to know the entire park until now. Today visitors can enjoy the Presidio Officers’ Club’s museum galleries and free concerts, films, lectures, and family events. In addition, visitors can hike on a dozen major trails; see outdoor installations by world-renowned artists; explore museums; birdwatch at restored
Major and minor surgical operations were provided at the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital, and outpatient cases were seen Over the five-day mission, outpatient medical services were provided at the Lamberto Macias at the Lamberto Macias Sports Sports Complex from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day. Complex. the facilities for surgical and out- in logistics like housing and tranThe Alameda Sister City Aspatient procedures; and assisting sit for the volunteers. sociation has pledged $5,000 to
EMPLOYMENT
FOSTER HOMECARE
wetlands; soak in incredible Golden Gate views at 10 scenic overlooks and vistas; participate in outdoor events, picnics, and festivals; and enjoy a self-guided tour on a free shuttle system; and so much more. Closed as an Army base in 1994, the Presidio’s historic buildings and natural areas have been gradually revitalized to welcome the public in a dramatic “post-to-park” transformation stewarded by three agencies: the Presidio Trust, the National Park Service, and the non-profit Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. Community Day Opening Celebration, William Penn Mott, Jr. Presidio Visitor Center Date: Saturday, February 25, 10am – 4pm Place: 210 Lincoln Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94129 Phone: (415) 561-4323 Price: Free Start your day in the Presidio at the new William Penn Mott, Jr. Presidio Visitor Center! Grand Opening festivities feature an Ohlone welcome dance by the Costanoan Rumsen Carmel Tribe and dancing by Ballet Folklorico Mexicano de Carlos Moreno, live music by the Latin fusion band Peregrinos Cosmicos, Taiko drummers, dragon dancers, kids crafts, games, food trucks, and ranger-led walking and shuttle tours. Be among the first to discover the center’s dynamic exhibits, inspiring videos, and high-tech tools. Then head out in the park for a special day of family fun. Visit www.nps.gov (click on Visitor Centers and Museums, and click on William Penn Mott Jr. Presidio Visitor Center for more information) to register. n
the mission to help pay for the supplies, hosting a meal for the volunteers, and the purchase of two CPR mannequins to help in training health providers in the Philippines – one named Alameda and the other Dumaguete. Donations are still being ac-
FOR RENT
cepted. Checks should be made payable to Alameda Sister City Association (ASCA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit corporation for tax deduction to the full extent of the law and mailed to Cynthia Bonta, P.O. Box 6255, Alameda, CA 94501. n
(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 17-23, 2017
Tourism Promotions Board hosts dinner for
Winter Escapade 4 delegates and guests
by Jessica
Tek-ing
A
N impressive dinner reception with speeches from honorable guests, songs, dance and “Mindanao Weave: The Spectacle” runway show created a wonderful evening for the delegates of this year’s Winter Escapade 4. Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Cesar Montano; and Philippine Embassy in Canada Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia graced the said event held at Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel last Friday, February 10. In her meaningful speech, Teo welcomed the participants and expressed her enthusiasm about the resounding success of this program over the past 3 years. The aim of the program is to continuously create extraordinary travel experiences for the participants, leveraging on promoting famed Filipino hospitality along with the country’s breathtaking views and captivating sights. “We will continuously work to encourage Filipinos, Canadians and visitors from other parts of the world to explore the undiscovered beauty of this place we call home,” said Teo. The highlight of the night was Rene Salud’s spectacular showcase of the exquisite artistry behind Mindanao’s weaving tradition. The fashion show gave delegates a glimpse of its history and significance as an integral part of the southern culture. Guests were in awe while models paraded
down the runway wearing the renowned designer’s unique creations. From dresses to gowns for female to pants and shirts for male, every design was intricately and meticulously woven in each fabric. Apart from witnessing a cultural showcase, participants were also serenaded by the Ryan Cayabyab singers. The group performed alltime classics such as “Maria Leonora Teresa” and “Mr. DJ.” The event had been truly a feast for all the senses. It was a night of celebration which brought everyone together under a unified sense of belonging and love for country. True to its promise, this year’s Winter Escapade 4 did not disappoint. Participants have nothing but praises to the organizers for making this wonderful experience possible. Nita Echanoaca, a registered nurse living in Canada for 26 years said: “No matter where you are, a part of you will always miss home. And you will always have that yearning to go back and feel your motherland’s embrace, just like a child who hasn’t gone home for a while. Thanks to experiences like this, we get to feel how it is to be home again.”
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february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
A10 february 17-23, 2017 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL
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SF2
cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 17, 2017
Mia Alvar’s debut collection ‘In The Country’ focuses on the Filipino diaspora by MoMar
G. Visaya/AJPress
Mia alvar’s debut collection “in The Country” was ten years in the making but the wait was pretty much worth it. New York Times has called her stories remarkable while New York Magazine said her debut collection is so well-drawn and plot-rich. Publishers Weekly gave a glowing review and said that the book is stunning and NPR called her book inspired, and yes, remarkable. The book won the 2016 PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize for debut fiction which honors an exceptionally talented fiction writer whose work—a first novel or collection of short stories— represents distinguished literary achievement and suggests great promise of a second work of literary fiction. and with the award
was a $25,000 cash prize for the winner to pursue a subsequent work of fiction. “i found out that i won during the actual awarding ceremonies, they wanted to keep it exciting. We didn’t know who was going to win. i prepared a little speech, just in case, because i am terrible at speaking off the cuff,” Mia told the Asian Journal in an interview. “it was a great night for Pinoy writers in general, there were several of us who won that night.” “in the Country” is an engaging and engrossing collection of nine stories, each of them sharing bits and pieces of Filipino culture and history. Her stories are character-driven and are all well-crafted and polished. These are stories from Bah-
Mia Alvar (left) with fellow awardee, designer Rafe Totengco (center) at An Evening in Manila, a fundraiser spearheaded by restaurateur Nicole Ponseca benefiting Advancement for Rural Kids (ARK) founded by Ayesha Vera-Yu (right). AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya
rain, Saudi arabia and Boston and New York in the United States, three of the many countries where Filipinos in the global diaspora call second home. The protagonists are compelling and complex. “Diaspora is a central part of my family’s experience as it is in many Filipino families’ experience,” Mia shared. She had an uncle who worked in Saudi arabia for many years, away from his four children. Her own father lived in Bahrain for many years and for some of those years, their entire family was there with him. Having a relative who lives or works abroad is common back in the Philippines. it is something that is so familiar to many Filipinos and that was what fascinated Mia and made her ask questions, foremost among them - what happens to family relationships, marriages, parent-child relationships when someone is away for that long? Overseas Filipino Workers or OFWs have become the new breed of Filipino heroes since they are the ones who work and toil hard abroad, away from their families for extended periods of time. They remit their hardearned income to their families back home not just for investments for the future but more for their day to day subsistence. “i think there are a lot of stories in the Philippines about the heroic sacrifices of the OFWs, and these of course are great, significant sacrifices,” Mia said. “in my book, i was more interested in exploring OFWs and immigrant communities as human beings and their flaws and weaknesses as well as their heroic moments.” it is in the book’s characters, their fears, struggles and successes that remind readers that their stories are universal. and that is also one thing that Mia would like
Mia shares that among her literary inspirations are two Filipino authors - Paz Marquez-Benitez and Carlos Bulosan
for more people to understand. it has been said that there is a dearth of Filipino authors in america writing about the immigrant experience here. Mia, a product of both Harvard and Columbia University, begs to differ and says that there’s a lot of them across the United States. “We’ve been working, some people for generations, what there is a lack of is the right level of visibility and access for these books and the authors. a lot of people just don’t know the names of Filipino authors. Even Filipino-americans sometimes are not that exposed to books about characters and families like theirs,” she explained. “it really is a matter of getting more of these books into the spotlight and getting mainstream publishers interested in these stories and getting everyone to understand that there are Filipino stories and they are Filipino stories but they are also global and american stories,” Mia added, which is exactly what many readers of “in The Country” have been posting on various review sites and message boards. Mia has many literary inspira-
tions, among them two Filipinos: one is Paz Marquez Benitez who was the first Filipina to publish her short stories in English in the Philippines and the other is Carlos Bulosan who is the father of Filipino immigrant literature. When we asked Mia how long it took her to come up with her first book, she managed a quick laugh and motioned with her two hands. Ten years. “it was a very long process. it was about ten years and part of that is, i live in New York and we have to make a living while we do our artistic pursuits,” she said with a smile. “i was not writing full time for many of those years and it took a while to get better and get the skills in order for me to finish a lot of these stories.” Towards the end of those ten years, she was working with an agent and an editor to help speed up the process. Deadlines—a combination of self-imposed and editor/agentimposed—helped. “i was ready. i noticed that my mind was moving on to new ideas so i thought, let me just buckle down so i can finish this one and move on,” she said. Homecoming Mia went back to the Philippines to promote the book. “The experience was so wonderful. it was the experience of a lifetime except i don’t want to say that because i want to be back much sooner. it had been
16 years since my last visit so it truly was a homecoming,” she shared, turning a bit wistful. “My family—my parents travelled with me along with my husband—was talking about how tragically for many immigrant Filipinos it’s a death in the family or an illness that brings them home. This time, it was this joyful, celebratory reason, which was so great,” she said. Mia was born in Manila and was raised in Bahrain and the United States. Her mother’s side of the family is in Manila as well. During her trip, she was able to attend a literary festival in Davao City, where her father’s family is from. She also visited Pangasinan where her husband’s family is from. To cap her homecoming, they went to Palawan, “which was just an amazing paradise vacation at the end of it all.” “it expanded my experience of the Philippines in an amazing way and made me want to go back much more often,” Mia quipped. Nowadays, Mia is working on her next book, which picks up where the end of “in The Country” leaves off. “The next one will contain some of the characters. it is going to be about the same issues, the diaspora, immigration, family and all that stuff that Filipinos know a lot about,” she shared.
What Gerald loves about Bea by Deni
Rose M. AfiniDAD-BeRnARDo Philstar.com
LOVe songs fill the running playlist of actor and athlete Gerald Anderson. His girlfriend, actress Bea Alonzo, also runs 5k. “She’s very strong,” Gerald said of his lady love. Unfortunately, the lovebirds are not together this Valentine’s since Gerald has to work in Bacolod, but he assured his fans that he and Bea are there to support each other. According to him, the two of them became a couple after touring the world together for
Bea Alonzo and Gerald Anderson
their various projects for ABSCBn. From the United States, to Canada and Belize, the two bonded after their shows and from there, they fell in love with each other. “In spite her stature and achievements, when you get to know her as a person, she is really so poised and refined. She’s really a princess inside,” Gerald told Philstar.com of why he loves his girlfriend so much. The Kapamilya actor can be seen with ex-girlfriend Kim Chiu and good friend Jake Cuenca in the upcoming soap opera, “Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin.”
Creating a memorable experience on your wedding day
By Monet
Lu
One of the biggest milestones in a woman’s life is her wedding day. even at a young age, many girls dream of their “perfect wedding.” They dream of that pivotal moment of seeing themselves walking down the aisle and seeing their groom at the end. They can only imagine the joy and excitement that they will experience until it is actually their wedding day. Whether it is a royal wedding, a celebrity wedding, or a simple wedding, every bride has one thing in common: that indescribable and overwhelming feeling of bliss. In all my years in the beauty industry, I can say that nothing is more beautiful than seeing a woman transform into a radiant bride. Sharing my God given ability and being given the chance to be a part of a grand journey — such as that of Fil-Am celebrity Joyce Jimenez and Paul egbalic, Donita Rose and eric Villlarama and a number of others — gives me inner joy and satisfaction. Love is a very splendorous thing — it “makes the world go round.” The tradition of two people engaging in marriage, a symbol of unity and love, is a tradition that has lasted for many
years. Today we combine the rituals of the past with the trends of the present to create a memorable experience. each couple has a different idea of what characterizes a “perfect wedding,” but often times we run into a number of similarities. The veil and white wedding dress are symbols of the bride’s purity, innocence, and modesty. The bouquet and flower décor represent happiness, growth, fertility, and the preparation for starting a new life together. Wedding rings are the love and bond between husband and wife, to be worn on the ring finger because of the “vein of love” that leads directly to the heart. The wedding candle symbolizes unity as the two flames merge into one, unable to be separated. A bride-to-be also has her respective ideal look. I have encountered a number of different brides whose uniqueness brings out their beauty. One bride may prefer a trendy look that is sharp and smart with an edgy vibe. Another may prefer the glamorous and dramatic red-carpet fashion that is sexy, yet mysterious. There is also the natural bride, with minimal make-up and a radiant smile that says it all. The preppy bride is calm, cool, and collected, remaining prim and proper with her polished look. My personal favorite is the classic bride, whose simplistic and sophisticated look is timeless, drawing out her elegance and beauty.
Joanne and Ace David’s wedding day
Whichever look is decided upon, the bride and groom usually choose to honor their heritage. Attire differs by culture, whether it is the Indian sari, Japanese kimono, or the Indonesian kebaya and batik. As part of Filipino culture, brides may wear a variation of the baro’t saya, such as the Maria Clara, while grooms wear the Barong Tagalog. Regardless of what anyone’s wedding day consists of, this fantasy coming to life is definitely a day to remember. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
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McDonald’s creates re-engineered straws for Shamrock season
Limited-edition and utterly frivolous reinvention lets guests enjoy both flavors of the new Chocolate Shamrock Shake OAK BROOK, IL--McDonald’s USA changed the world (of shake-drinking) with a limited-edition straw designed by a team of aerospace and robotic engineers. The Chocolate Shamrock Shake, one of four new seasonal McCafé beverages, has dual layers of delicious chocolate shake below Shamrock Shake. The new recipe presented McDonald’s a unique challenge to reinvent the shake experience. To deliver the ideal flavor ratio of 50% chocolate and 50% mint in each sip, versus enjoying each flavor separately with a traditional straw, McDonald’s turned to highly-qualified engineering firms. JACe and nK Labs created the probablymore-revolutionary-than-actuallyneeded Suction Tube for Reverse Axial Withdrawal (the STRAW). The STRAW’s j-shape provides optimal flavor flow dynamics. “It was a puzzling assignment but one with an ambitious goal,” said Seth newburg, principal engineer and managing partner at nK Labs. “From a physics perspective, it’s actually quite difficult to deliver a proportional amount of both chocolate and mint flavors with each sip. But that’s exactly what we did. It’s a marvel of fluid dynamics. Thanks Fibonacci sequence.” McDonald’s has been raising the bar in a number of ways, from how it operates (now serving All Day Breakfast), what it serves (updated Chicken Mcnuggets® free of artificial preservatives, flavors and colors) and what it offers (changing the Big Mac by offering new Mac sandwich sizes). The release of the Chocolate Shamrock Shake and the STRAW marks the latest example of how McDonald’s is putting its guests at the center of all that it does. “We’re always listening to what our customers want and reinventing our menu in response,” said Darci Forrest, senior director of menu innovation at McDonald’s. “And though it might sound silly to some, putting our guests first sometimes means re-thinking even the humble straw. We reached out to some of the brightest engineers in the country
and asked for their help to create the ultimate shake-drinking experience. Due to the STRAW’s unique design, only 2,000 were produced in time for Shamrock season. The STRAW will be available in select participating restaurants with the purchase of a Chocolate Shamrock Shake. Visit McDonald’s Trending now to learn where and when the lucky few will be distributed. And, like the seasonal offering of the McCafé Shamrock Chocolate offerings, the STRAW is also available for a limited time. The Chocolate Shamrock Shake is one of four new mint and chocolate flavored McCafé beverages now available at McDonald’s locations nationwide for a limited time. Those beverages include: Chocolate Shamrock Shake: Vanilla soft serve and chocolate flavored syrup under the original mint flavored Shamrock Shake. Top it off with green sprinkles, whipped topping, and a cherry and it’s a match made in Shamrock heaven. Shamrock Chocolate Chip
Frappé: Made with an indulgent blend of chocolate chips and a hint of coffee, topped with green sprinkles, whipped topping, and tantalizing chocolaty drizzle. Shamrock Mocha: Our classic Hot Mocha just got minty. Made with sustainably sourced espresso beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms, steamed whole or nonfat milk, mint and mocha flavored syrup, and topped with whipped topping and delicious chocolaty drizzle. Shamrock Hot Chocolate: Our delicious Hot Chocolate now with cool mint flavor. Made with steamed whole or nonfat milk, mint and mocha flavored syrup, and topped with whipped topping and chocolaty drizzle. As part of Shamrock season, McDonald’s will donate $.25 from each McCafé Shamrock Chocolate beverage purchased to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) during the week of March 11-17.The iconic Shamrock Shake has been a key part of fundraising for RMHC since 1974 when the first Ronald McDonald House was opened. (Advertising Supplement)
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T he As ian Jour na l SF M A G A Z I NE - Februa ry 1 7 , 2 0 1 7
Piolo Pascual and Shaina Magdayao on exclusively dating: Too soon for labels
celebrity world By Ferdie Villar
IT’S common knowledge that nothing is private if you’re showbiz. This is why a lot of people were surprised when actor Piolo Pascual admitted that he and actress Shaina Magdayao have been dating for five years now. The two shared this longstanding secret during a recent press conference, and yes, they have been going out exclusively. But why keep it a secret until now? Both agreed it was because of mutual respect — they did not want to make it public. In a statement sent to “Tonight With Boy Abunda on Valentine’s Day, Shaina said, “Yes, it has been years that [Piolo] has been there for me, as a great friend I can always count on. We have become very special to each other. Even his whole family has become dear to me.” It was a good idea to keep it from the public and out of the news (we know how unforgiving fans and social media could be), as Piolo shared that they’re doing really well. However, even after years of dating, the actor still doesn’t want to put a label on whatever kind of relationship they have. According to Piolo, what matters
Actress Erich Gonzales said she didn’t really want to give details about her break up with JapaneseBrazilian actor Daniel Matsunaga anymore but she is being provoked to to “tell all.” Photo from Erich Gonzales’ Instagram account
Actor Piolo Pascual has confirmed that he and actress Shaina Magdayao have been dating exclusively for five years now.
is that they value, treasure and appreciate what they both have. Shaina agrees on the “no labels” arrangement. For her, she wants to take things slow, impressing on the value of commitment. She said that when the time comes to have a boyfriend that means he’s probably the “one.” For now, she’ll focus on her career while waiting for that to happen. The two have been linked to each other in 2012 when they were spotted together after the “ASAP” Singapore tour. They also did the movie “On The Job.” *** While we see romance between Piolo and Shaina, many fans were heartbroken when Erich Gonzales and Daniel Matsunaga called it quits after being together for two years. In an interview with ABSCBN last week, the actress confirmed the breakup. “It’s true po that we’re not together anymore. It’s over,” she said. Erich also does not want to
Erich Gonzales and Daniel Matsunaga have called it quits after a two-year relationship. Both have been elusive about the real reason for the break up.
Shaina Magdayao shared it’s too soon to put a label on the kind of relationship she has with actor Piolo Pascual in spite of the fact that they have been dating exclusively for five years.
talk about the exact reason for their split and just added, “I just want to move on.” Prior to confirming the break up, the Japanese-Brazilian actor posted a messaged on his Instagram, which hinted that he and Erich were still trying to patch things up. He posted, “Guys i would like to ask a favor pls...we are talking and going through some personal things...all we need is your support and love...not people talking trash...we love you all with no limit and we just need some respect and time. thank you. God bless you guys...” Daniel also reiterated that there was no third party involved in the break up. Erich has remained elusive about the whole thing since the news broke out. In fact, she has been very vague about who called it quits first, and if money was involved. “Tungkol sa pera, ayaw ko na pong mag detalye tungkol diyan,” she said. “Like what I said, I just really wanna move on. Yun, hopefully, it’s gonna get better naman.” For now, Erich does not see herself being friends with Daniel. She just wants to move on, like she kept saying in interviews and has tried to keep the public from prying. However, no matter how much Daniel and Erich tried to avoid revealing too much, the actor’s sister, Vanessa Matsunaga decided to join the “feud.” Last Sunday, February 12, Vanessa went to Erich’s Instagram account to ask the actress to clear up their family’s name from an issue over money. The actress turned off the comment activities on her ac-
Primetime King Dingdong Dantes hosts the newest docu-drama show, “Case Solved” on GMA News. This is a big step for the actor, going into more serious public service.
Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres is coming back to the Philippines in March to make a movie with former boyfriend, actor Aga Muhlach.
count, but PEP.ph was able to take a screen shot of Vanessa’s statement prior to that. Vanessa said that she was asked by her brother “to keep quiet and not fight back or even reply to any comments.” But Vanessa said that she couldn’t just keep silent because people are invading their family’s privacy and asking if they owe money from Erich. “I know you answered the interview with the best of your ability, I understand it’s hard to answer too many questions but I honestly wish you had addressed the money issue,” she commented. Vanessa acknowledged that Daniel and Erich do not owe anyone any explanation, yet she encouraged the actress to “look back at the good times.” “Remember, you were with us for two years, you were included in every family plan, trips (and) weddings. We took care of you and your family and took in
Filipino producer Jhett Tolentino wins first Grammy award By MoMar
G. Visaya
AJPress
FILIPINO producer Jhett Tolentino took home the Grammy Award on Sunday, February 12 for Best Musical Theater Album for “The Color Purple,” the musical based off of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. This is Tolentino’s first Grammy, which he said was unexpected and an “impossible dream.” “I still can’t believe it. Nobody thought this could happen. When ‘The Color Purple’ was called, my mind went on a rewind and I remembered everything that I had to go through. I take pride in the award and it is an honor. I’m inspired to deliver more great work,” Tolentino told the Asian Journal on Tuesday, February 14. Tolentino co-produced the album alongside producers Van Dean, Stephen Bray, Roy Furman, Scott Sanders, and Frank Filipetti. Cynthia Erivo, Jennifer Hudson, and Danielle Brooks are the principal soloists of the album, while Stephen Bray, Brenda Russell, and Allee Willis are the composers/lyricists. “It was such a big category.
Broadway producer Jhett Tolentino
We were up against Cyndi Lauper, Steve Martin, Sara Bareilles and ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ was a great production as well,” he said. “This is my fifth time attending the Grammys and two of my previous shows were nominated too before. Ours was the first category and it feels like it happened too fast, it was too fast.” He shared that he raised funds to become a producer for the musical’s original cast recording, which happened over the span of two days.
(Best Play). He is the second Philippine-born Tony Award winner, and the first and only Filipino Tony Awards voter. He earned a bachelor of science in accountancy from the University of Iloilo in 1997, and made his Broadway debut in 2013 with “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.” As for what’s next for him, he is looking to start producing Broadway shows in the Philippines and is wrapping up his documentary, “Life is What You Make It.” “I am hoping to find Filipino editors who can work with me to finish the film. And hopefully we can bring it to international AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya film festivals. If not, then we Last year, “The Color can screen it in the PhilipPurple” received the Tony pines and I wish that young Awards for Best Revival of a children there will be inspired Musical and Best Performance and think that poverty is not by an Actress in a Leading Role a death sentence. Just look at in a Musical (Cynthia Erivo). me, I’m a living example. Just “Cynthia Erivo is a darling. be resourceful and stick with it, She’s a great talent,” Tolentino you don’t have to rely on your commented. parents,” he said. The Iloilo native is a threeIt is also his dream to have a time Tony Award winner for Filipino show on Broadway. “Vanya and Sonia and Masha “It is going to be my and Spike,” (Best Musical) crusade to make it happen, “A Raisin in the Sun,” (Best to bring something about the Revival) and “A Gentleman’s Philippines to the Broadway Guide to Love and Murder” stage,” he added.
Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid will host GMA 7’s newest show, “Full House Tonight,” to premiere this Sunday, February 19.
consideration your preferences and watched over you,” she wrote. On Tuesday, February 13, Erich responded to Vanessa’s post via private message to ABS-CBN News’ Marie Lozano, emphasizing that what happened in her relationship with Daniel is just between the two of them. “Gusto ko na po sana’ng manahimik na lang at mag-move on na pero sila ‘yung comment nang comment sa social media. Social media is not the proper venue. I turned off the comment section of my Instagram account kasi pagpipyestahan lang ng
mga tao, lalong hahaba at hindi matatapos,” she said. She also addressed the money issue by saying “Hindi ako mayaman, Vanessa; tama ka. Mahirap lang ako; hindi ako kasing yaman ng napangasawa mo. Pero sa mundong ito, ang reyalidad, hindi lang mayayaman ang nagte-take advantage. Mas maraming mahirap ang napagsasamantalahan.” Gonzales said she didn’t really want to give details about her break-up with Daniel anymore but she is being provoked. “They want me to speak up? I will. I will tell all,” she added.
Pinoy showbiz couples whose love lasted by arlo
Custodio ManilaTimes.net
THEY say nothing is forever— and when it comes to relationships, there is sadly truth to this in show business where most wedding anniversaries rarely go beyond the 10-year-mark. But while denizens of the celluloid world are generally likened to rigodon de honor dancers who swap partners in a gaily waltz, there remain a few but inspiring number of couples who have endured not just the test of time, but also the temptations of fiery liaisons. Granted that some of these celebrities had also come from past relationships, they never let go of believing in love and proved how fulfilling it is to hold on to forever. Foremost among this fortunate cluster include Christopher De Leon (from his marriage to Nora Aunor) with Sandy Andolong; Vilma Santos (from her marriage to Edu Manzano) with Ralph Recto; Sharon Cuneta (from her marriage to Gabby Concepcion) with Francis Pangilinan; Robin Padilla (from his marriage to Liezl Sicangco) with Mariel Rodriguez; and John Estrada (from his marriage to Janice De Belen) with Priscilla
Merielles. Relatively newlyweds but still going strong are Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, Jericho Rosales and Kim Jones, Chito Miranda and Neri Naig, and JC Intal and Bianca Gonzales. Earning praise and admiration too in showbiz are couples who have remained faithful with each other through the years, thereby setting good examples for the younger generation whose idea of marriage have significantly changed from before. Today, in celebration of the Day of the Hearts, The Manila Times toasts showbiz’ enduring couples in the hopes of impressing upon the young that love, coupled with devotion and determination, can bring about forever. Robert Arevalo and Barbara Perez (54 years) Robert Arevalo comes from a clan of artists—his father was a composer, the late Jay Ilagan was his cousin and award-winning director and National Artist for Film Gerry De Leon was his uncle. He attended some of the best schools in the country—Legarda Elementary School, San Beda College and Ateneo De Manila Continued on Page SF3
Pinoy showbiz couples... From Page SF3 University; and also anchored ABS-CBN’s TV Patrol at one time in his career. Barbara Perez is one of the few Filipino actresses who was able to do a Hollywood movie, No Man Is An Island with Jeffrey Hunter in 1962. She was offered a five-year contract by Universal Studios but turned it down as she was already pregnant and decided to marry Arevalo. They were together in the movie Daigdig Ng Mga Api where they became the first reel and real life couple who won Best Actor and Best Actress. The actress and former journalism student at the University of Santo Tomas related to this day her husband still massages her feet whenever they ache. Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboa (47 years) Vicente Sotto 3rd studied at the Colegio De San Juan De Letran from elementary through college, and completed a Bachelor of Arts Major in English. His career in showbiz as singer-songwriter, actor, comedian, and host propelled him into politics – first as Vice Mayor of Quezon City then a multiple-term as senator. Helen Gamboa was the country’s most popular singer-actress who at the peak of her career married band musician Sotto. They had already been secretly married when she introduced Sotto to her mom. They have four children and are now enjoying being grandparents. Eddie Gutierrez and Annabelle Rama (39 years) Eddie Gutierrez already had a lovechild by Liza Lorena (Tonton Gutierrez) and by Pilita Corrales (Ramon Christopher) when Annabelle Rama admitted to begin
Eddie Gutierrez and Anabelle Rama
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T h e As ian Jou r n al S F MAGAZ IN E - F e bru ary 1 7 , 2 0 1 7
‘FVR XYZ Files’ launched in time for 31st EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary
Robert Arevalo and Barbara Perez
Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboav
stalking him. She also confessed she became pregnant with their eldest on purpose! After more than “50 times of separation and six children”— Ruffa being the most prominent and then twins Richard and Raymond—the Philippines’ Elvis Presley and his fiesty wife are still together to this very day. Tirso Cruz III and Lyn Ynchausti (35 years) Tirso Cruz III was called the “Topstar” when his perennial screen partner Nora Aunor was baptized the Philippines’ “Superstar.” They are “Guy and Pip,” the most popular love team in local showbiz history. However, “Guy and Pip” were best left to the movies as Cruz found his forever in ramp model Lyn Ynchausti. Their marriage on May 25, 1985 in fact was a top secret until a single photo of the event got published later. Ynchausti said in a magazine interview that they renew their wedding vows every five years, and have already gone beyond celebrating silver. Gary Valenciano and Angeli Pangilinan (32 years) Gary Valenciano is one showbiz personality whose marriage did not affect his popularity. In fact, his wife Angeli, also being his manager and adviser greatly contributed to his success as a performer. They met when Valenciano was a member of La Salle Greenhills’ high school vocal group Kundirana, and Pangilinan was a vocalist of Music & Magic. Their relationship was said to have been bumpy but they both endured the trials. They are gifted with three children – Paolo who is now married himself, Gab who ended a tumultuous marriage in 2016, and Kiana who is now active in the music scene.
Christopher Roxas and Gladys Reyes (24 years) Gladys Reyes is known as the perpetual villainess to Judy Ann Santos. She and Christopher Roxas became childhood sweethearts when they met on the set of Mara Clara in 1992. They were engaged in 2003 and got married in 2007. Both members of Iglesia Ni Cristo, their faith besides their love strengthens their marriage. Robert Seña and Isay Alvarez (24 years) Colleagues in theater, Robert Seña and Isay Alvarez fell in love after working together in the original cast of Miss Saigon in London’s West End. Coming home to start a family, they continue to be active as artists and in fact have also set up their own theater and concert production company, Spotlight Artists Center. Their latest hit is juke box musical Dirty Old Musical. Ronnie Ricketts and Mariz (23 years) Ronnie Ricketts was previously in relationship with Maricel Soriano as they co-starred in a number of movies starting with My Heart Belongs To Daddy topbilled by Dolphy and Nida Blanca. Mariz, meanwhile, was a singer-TV host. He was her first boyfriend. Theirs was considered a dream wedding at San Antonio Church in Forbes Park on December 18, 1993. They are blessed with two daughters. Aljon Jimenez and Manilyn Reynes (20 years) Aljon Jimenez and Manilyn Reynes were both members of German Moreno’s That’s Entertainment and paired with different stars. Reynes’ reel and real life boyfriend was Janno Gibbs, then Kempee De Leon, while Jimenez was linked to Ruffa
ON February 15, 2017, a week before the 31st anniversary of the first day of the EDSA People Power Revolution, the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV)and Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. (MTVi) launched a book on former President Fidel V. Ramos at the Hexagon Lounge, 4th floor, RCBC Plaza, Makati City. The book, “FVR XYZ Files: An Anthology of Controversies & Issues, Anecdotes & Trivia about Fidel Valdez Ramos,” is a companion book of “A Continuing Voyage for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development,” which will be launched in March to coincide with RPDEV’s 16th anniversary. Consisting of 372 pages, “FVR XYZ” is divided into three chapters: Trivia, Issues and Controversies, and Anecdotes. The chapter on Trivia contains sections on the different stages in the life of the 12th president of
the Philippines — from his childhood, his life in the uniformed service, his Presidency and on to his role as senior statesman and kuya to over 100 million Filipinos. The chapter gathers bits of interesting information to make Filipinos understand the person who led the country from 1992-1998 to become one of the fastest-growing economies in the region. This enlightening chapter reveals a leader imbued with wit and a sense of humor despite his rigid military training from the U.S. Military Academy. The chapter Issues and Controversies presents the real narrative and account behind every issue and controversy thrown at the former president. Issues, long answered during his incumbency but which again came around as critics try to connect him to the failure of those who succeeded him to lead the country, are responded straightforwardly.
These include the alleged role of the United States in the 1986 EDSA People Revolution, the AFP Modernization Program, the Flor Contemplacion case, and the inefficient MRT system, among other issues that impinged upon good governance, peace and order, economic development and social welfare. A collection of anecdotes comprises the last chapter of the book. Former members of the Ramos cabinet, journalists and those who have come in close contact with the former president relate their unique experiences with the man who established and steers the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation after turning over the presidency to his successor. The book is authored by Melandrew T. Velasco, biographer of the Ramos family and president of MTVi. He has authored several books for the Ramos family and FVR’s RPDEV Foundation including Teamwork for Enduring Peace and Sustainable Development, the 10th year commemorative book of RPDEV. According to Velasco, while other former Chiefs of State write their memoirs and then fade into the sunset, not so with FVR. “Even in his octogenarian years, FVR has never failed to carry on what he has started, alwaysa good soldier who likes to say that he would rather die serving his country with his boots on rather thansit idly to enjoy his retirement.He continues to inspire and stimulate, stir and enthuse, define and redefine, challenge and defy,” says Velasco.
Gutierrez. Jimenez proposed to Reynes on national television in 1996 and they were married in the same year. He now stands as his wife’s talent manager. Ariel Rivera and Gelli De Belen (19 years) Ariel Rivera and Gelli De Belen’s relationship is considered as one of the most enduring in showbiz. Reconciling after Rivera’s brief liaison with Regine Velasquez, they got married in December 1987. De Belen said that the for-
mula to their happy marriage is “mutual respect and generosity of the spirit.” Richard Gomez and Lucy Torres (18 years) They met in a shampoo commercial, and since then Richard Gomez never let go of Lucy Torres, who confessed she had a crush on the actor since she was 12 years old. They have a daughter—Juliana—and now devotes their time to family and as public servants. Torres is her district’s congressional representative while
Gomez finally won as mayor of his wife’s hometown after several attempts at election. Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales (15 years) From being friends to being engaged is what happened to Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzales. Gifted with beautiful twins – Atasha and Andres – the couple has had their own share of marital woes but proved to be strong in their relationship, even without the benefit of courtship.