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Volume 16 - No. 42 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages
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DATELINE State of emergency declared in response to California Hep. A outbreak FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
GOVERNOR Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency on Friday, October 13, in response to the current hepatitis A outbreak in California. It is said to be the largest person-to-person hepatitis A outbreak in the United States since a vaccine for the viral liver disease was made available in 1996. As of Tuesday, October 17, San Diego County’s Health and Human Services Agency recorded a total of 19 deaths as a result of the hepatitis A outbreak. Brown’s statement ordered that California increase its supply of hepatitis A vaccines to help stop the virus from spreading. According to the declaration, the federally-funded vaccine supply is insufficient for the state’s needs — several counties
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Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY
US gov’t praises PH military for Hapilon, Maute deaths “We congratulate our partners in the Armed Forces of the Philippines for their reported success in killing two of the leaders behind the months-long THE United States on Tuesday, Oct. 17 lauded clash in Marawi: Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute,â€? Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute were killed by soldiers in Marawi City, Defense Secretary DelďŹ n Lorenzana said Monday, Oct. 16. the Armed Forces of the Philippines for success- Koscina said. Inquirer.net photos “The U.S. is proud to support the AFP’s counterfully neutralizing terror leaders Isnilon Hapilon and terrorism efforts in Mindanao through intelligence, the approaching end of a months-long campaign to Omar Maute. In a statement, U.S. Embassy in Manila press at- surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, and rid the Islamic city of extremist militants. Hapilon had long been on the U.S. Federal Bureau tachĂŠ Molly Koscina expressed how the Philippines’ other technical assistance,â€? she added. Hapilon and Maute were killed in a military op- of Investigation’s list of most wanted terrorists. The longtime ally is proud to support the counter-terroreration before dawn on Monday, Oct. 16, signaling u PAGE A2 ism efforts in Mindanao. by ROSETTE
ADEL
Philstar.com
AFP: Martial law still needed due to network of terror groups by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
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MARTIAL law in Mindanao must be retained even after the deaths of terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). AFP Spokesperson Major General Restituto Padilla Jr. said in a Palace briefing that the military still has to address the
Stockton’s Filipino community center vandalized during Fil-Am History Month THE Little Manila Center in Stockton, California was vandalized on Monday, October 9, as the Filipino-American community joined others throughout the United States in celebrating Fil-Am History Month. “We do not know why someone would deface our windows and rip the historic photographs of our community from the Little Manila Center entrance,� read a statement issued by the Little Manila Center Board. Brian Batugo, a teacher and arts director at the center, was running a bit late to dance practice when he received a Facebook message by one of the student’s parents, notifying him of the vandalism. Shortly after, a student sent him a photo. “One of my students had tears in her eyes,� Batugo told the Asian Journal, detailing that he found his students — many of whom were also taking an ethnic studies class at the center — shocked and upset. Rather than going straight into rehearsal, Batugo allowed his students to reflect and document the event on social media. Batugo himself did a live video showing the damage to those on his social media networks. Stockton’s Mayor Michael Tubbs picked up on the social media outcries and called the incident “unacceptable� in a tweet. He then
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MARAWI FREED. President Rodrigo Duterte made his seventh visit to Marawi City on Tuesday, Oct. 17 as he declared the war-torn city’s liberation from terrorists. His declaration came on the heels of the death of terrorist leaders, Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. Despite the declaration, the island of Mindanao, home to around 22 million Filipinos, remains under military rule. Malacaùang photo by Robinson Niùal
NAIA no longer on list of ‘worst airports’, other PH airports named among Asia’s best by DANA
SIOSON
DOTr vows more improvements
AJPress
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 Inquirer.net photo
AFTER consecutive years of being named as among the worst airports around the globe and in Asia, the Ninoy International Aquino International Air-
Tourism Sec. Teo revives ‘Bring Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Home A Friend’ program to Cardinal Vidal passes away at 86 increase inbound tourist traffic by NESTOR
CORRALES Inquirer.net
Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo announces to the media the ofďŹ cial start of the “Bring Home A Friendâ€? campaign which will run from October 15, 2017 up to April 15, 2018. DFA photo
Police ofďŹ cers check evacuees from Marawi at a checkpoint by the entrance of Iligan City in of Mindanao in this May 24 file photo. Inquirer.net photo
AMIDST a fiesta themed celebration, the general public welcomed the rebirth of the “Bring Home A Friend� to the Philippines (BHAF), aimed to help raise inbound tourism figures and spur more economic activity. The grand relaunch of BHAF was held at the Newport Mall, Resorts World Manila complete with Higantes dancers, other cultural performers and renowned Original Pilipino Music (OPM) artists. “Tonight marks an important milestone for all of us in the Department of Tourism as we unveil the most anticipated return
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CEBU CITY — The country’s champion of peace is gone. Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal died at the Intensive Care Unit of the Per-
petual Succour Hospital in Cebu City at 7:28 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18, surrounded by some priests and his closest confidants. The 86-year-old cardinal died
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port (NAIA) is finally out of the list this 2017. A recent survey released by “The Guide To Sleeping In Airports� on Sunday, October 15 showed that the Philippines’ premier gateway is no longer
included in the world’s top 20 worst airports. From 2011 to 2013, NAIA ranked first place on the globe’s worst airports list. It landed in 4th place in 2014. The following
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october 20-26, 2017 • NorcAL ASIAN JoUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
From the Front Page
US gov’t praises PH military... PAGE A1 t U.S. Department of State had offered $5 million for information leading to his capture. Maute, meanwhile, was a figurehead of the pro-Islamic State Maute group along with his brother, Abdullah, who was reported killed in September. The
two led a group that attempted to lay siege on the city in May. President Rodrigo Duterte announced that the besieged city is now free from terrorists on its 148th day of armed conflict. The military, however, said it was still pursuing foreign militants including a Malaysian recruiter in
Marawi. Koscina, meanwhile, said the U.S. will continue coordination with the local government. “We will continue working with our Filipino friends, partners and allies to eradicate violent extremism and terrorism,� she added. n
Tourism Sec. Teo revives... PAGE A1 t
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of a widely successful incentive travel program which was first launched by former Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor in 1994, the Bring Home a Friend,� said DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo. The BHAF is a rewards program which seeks to promote travel to the Philippines by encouraging Filipinos or expatriates in the Philippines to invite friends from abroad with the lure of prizes for both “sponsor� and “invitee�. By simply following four simple steps: Invite, Accept, Travel and Register, any eligible ‘sponsor’ and ‘invitee’ can join. Program mechanics are available at the www.bringhomeafriend. online. Ms. Mina Gabor expressed excitement and high esteem that the project she initiated 23 years ago has come back to life. She has high hopes of its success as the current situation is more enabling now given that more prizes are at stake and more importantly, through digital and social media, activation and promotion is a lot easier. The sponsors were thanked through plaques of appreciation awarded by the Secretary and other DOT officials. Partner sponsors include Megaworld Corporation, Toyota Motor Philippines, Philippine Airlines, Duty Free Philippines, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Tourism Promotions Board, El Nido Hotel and Resort, JPark Island Resort and Water Park Cebu and Pearl Farm Beach Resort. Providing entertainment were hosts Randy Santiago and Jimmy Bondoc together with the Sabado Boys, Mitoy Yonting and the
FIRST VISIT. President Rodrigo Duterte chats with inmates at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. The president promised to provide a television set for each cell. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma
AFP: Martial law still needed... PAGE A1 t what he described as “greater threats� posed by network of terror groups. “But there is a greater threat here that needs to be addressed and the need for the maintenance of martial law in some parts is really important because of the network, the existence of the network of all these terrorist groups,� Padilla told reporters on Tuesday, October 17. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte imposed martial law and suspended the privilege of writ of habeas corpus in the entire Mindanao on May 23, following the attack of Islamic State (IS)inspired terrorists in Marawi City, province of Lanao del Sur. The martial law proclamation was initially set to expire in July, but Congress voted to extend it until the end of the year. “It is something that we need to do in order to address quickly and adequately those threats
that are looming in the horizon or in the environment that may result to the harm of innocents like what happened in Marawi,� Padilla added. He noted it would be up to the president to decide whether to lift the martial law. “From the side of the military, although this is a political decision, we will make appropriate recommendations,� the military official said. He assured that that law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear about military rule. “What we want to convey to the public and for them to understand is that there will be a consultation,� Padilla explained. “The president will allow the Armed Forces and other security agencies to air their side and to make recommendations, appropriate recommendations.� To date, the military said there only around 20 to 30 remaining armed men or “strugglers� in Marawi City, which include six
to eight foreign terrorists. The number of hostages remained to be at about 20, which includes women and children. In a statement, House Deputy Speaker and Capiz Rep. Fredenil Castro said it may be better to maintain the heavy security measures in Mindanao until the situation stabilizes and rehabilitation efforts can proceed on full throttle. He advised against the lifting of martial law until “tentacles and smallest level of terrorism have been dismantled and hostilities have been diffused.� “We should not be too confident and complacent just because the military has declared that hostilities have started cease. We have to hear from the people and local government of Marawi City and Mindanao if they already feel secured,� said Castro. “You have to nip it from the bud. It is necessary that normal lives of the people of Mindanao are restored and reconstruction of Marawi City goes unhampered by even the smallest threat of terrorism,� he added. n
NAIA no longer on list of ‘worst airports’... PAGE A1 t
year, it was no longer included in the world’s top ten worst airports but was rated 8th worst airport in Asia. u PAGE A4 In 2016, NAIA landed in the fifth spot on Asia’s worst airports, which the government attributed to the issue of “laglag-bala� or “bullet-planting� scheme, wherein personnel allegedly planted bullets in luggage to extort money from travellers. But this year, NAIA is also no longer among Asia’s top five worst airports list. Four Philippine regional airports likewise maintained its spot on the top 25 best airports in Asia. These include the Iloilo International Airport, MactanCebu International Airport, Clark International Airport, and Davao International Airport. In a statement, Philippine Department of Transport (DOTr) Chief Arthur Tugade welcomed the travel website’s positive
feedback as he vowed to continuous development of the country’s services. “Work, work, work lang. While it is good that we are not listed among the worst, let us work even harder to be included amongst the best,� Tugade said, reminding that there are several things yet to be improved at NAIA. “We should be careful that we do not backslide. The show must go on — and better!� he added. The DOTr also noted that since the new administration of President Rodrigo Duterte took over in June last year, there has been “no single incidence of a passenger missing a flight for possessing a bullet.� “Passengers no longer feel the need to wrap bags and luggages in plastic or masking tapes,� the department said. According to the DOTr, among the reforms implemented under the new administration were
restriction on general aviation to prioritize commercial flights; reducing flight delays; and construction of Rapid Exit Taxiways to allow an aircraft to leave the runway at higher speed and increase flight movements. It likewise include provision of cleaner toilets additional seats, free Wi-Fi, and Well-Wishers’ Area. Echoing the transport chief’s remarks, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) General Manager Ed Monreal said the latest result “is only as good as the last race.� “We are happy to hear the recent development [delisting of NAIA]. However, the bigger challenge now is on how we can maintain or even surpass this achievement. We are only good as the last race,� Monreal said. “The task ahead is enormous, we are wishing to be part of the list of the best airports in the future,� he added. n
Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal... PAGE A1 t of septic shock, a condition when the blood pressure drops to a dangerously low level after a severe blood infection, said Msgr. Joseph Tan, the spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Cebu. “It is with great sadness that I announce the death of Cardinal Vidal,� Tan said in telephone interview. “He has returned to the Father’s home at 7:28 a.m. today.� “I ask the people to pray for his eternal repose,� he added. “For four days, he was in stable condition. But as it is, his heart may have given up due to his age.� Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma and Auxiliary Bishop Dennis Villarojo, who served as Vidal’s private secretary for many years, were with Vidal when the cardinal breathed his last. Vidal, who served as archbishop of Cebu for 29 years, from 1982 to 2011, lies in state at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral from Wednesday afternoon. His remains will be transferred to the Archdiocesan Shrine of San Pedro Calungsod at the Archbishop’s Residence compound over the weekend. Tan said the funeral date has not been set, but Vidal’s body may be buried at the cathedral mausoleum where his predecessors had also been laid to rest. Vidal, whose health declined since 2014 due to pneumonia, was rushed to the hospital Wednesday last week after having difficulty in breathing. He was in a semi-comatose state and underwent dialysis after his kidneys weakened. But around 6 a.m. on Wednesday, his blood pressure severely
dropped due to blood infection. Physicians tried to revive Vidal for about an hour but failed. Brother thanks Cebuanos Aside from Palma and Villarojo, also present at the hospital were his 84-year-old brother Juanito and former private secretaries — Msgr. Achilles Dakay, Fr. Agustin Ancajas, Fr. Mhar Vincent Balili and Fr. Joseph de Aquino. Juanito flew in to Cebu from Manila last week after learning that Vidal was confined at the hospital. But he was not able to talk to his brother who was already unconscious. While they understood that Vidal would eventually die, Juanito said it was still painful to lose a loved one. “Gusto ko sanang mauna eh kasi mas marami siyang magagawa sa mga tao. Kailangan pa siya ng tao,� Juanito said. [I would have wanted to die ahead of him because he still has a lot to offer the people. He is needed by the people.] Vidal is the fifth of six children while Juanito is the youngest. Juanito thanked the Cebuanos for taking good care of Vidal. “Salamat. Salamat. Salamat. Naramdaman ko ang pagmamahal ninyo sa aking kapatid,� he said. [Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I feel how you loved my brother.] Peacemaker Tan said Vidal would always be remembered as champion of peace who made himself available to others. “He lent himself to others so he could be of help to them. He tried to be a peacemaker by me-
Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal Inquirer.net photo
diating parties in conflict even to the point that he was (at times) misunderstood. But that is his way. He chose the way of truth,� the monsignor said, alluding to Vidal’s episcopal motto “Viam veritas elegi (I have chosen the way of truth).� Among Vidal’s biggest legacies for Cebu, Tan said two things stood out. “First, he called for a diocesan synod in 1982 to create policies to transform the diocese,� he said. “And second, the Cardinal Vidal gave us the legacy of San Pedro Calungsod, and he started the legacy of Archbishop Teofilo Camomot.� For over two decades, Vidal worked for the canonization of Calungod, a Visayan martyr, who eventually became one of the saints of the Catholic Church in 2012. The cardinal also started the process for the beatification of the late Cebuano bishop, Teofilo Camomot, who was known for his extreme generosity and holiness. De Aquino, the last private secretary of Vidal, said the cardinal was a true example of service
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From the Front Page
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 20-26, 2017
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State of emergency declared in response to Califronia... PAGE A1 t
FOR BETTER SERVICE. The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) received 150 brand new motorcycles and 485 bullet proof vests from the city government on Wednesday, Oct.18 at Camp Karingal. The donation is part of the several tranches of logistical equipment included in the 2017 procurement program from the Quezon City government, Mayor Herbert Bautista said. Inquirer.net photo
Stockton’s Filipino community... PAGE A1 t called the city’s police chief out to the scene. As of Wednesday, police have classified the incident as an act of vandalism and not a hate crime. According to Dillon Delvo, executive director and co-founder of the Little Manila Foundation, no other businesses on the street were vandalized. Words like “brainwashed” and “bigot”, along with seemingly misspelled words like “whittie” and “prop”, were marked on one of the center’s front windows. The vandal, who a witness described as possibly homeless, also ripped down donated banners portraying historic Filipino American stories. The door’s decals that once read “Little Manila Center” also had letters taken off. “Things like this make me so mad. Destroyed our donated pictures and messed up our windows, and called us “bigots” this is a hate crime,” read a tweet by Twitter user @celiiry. Delvo told the Asian Journal that a recent quote for the damage was $1,200 — more than they had originally thought. Donations are being accepted on the foundation’s website. Fil-Am History Month context The incident came as the center was busy preparing for activities and projects for Fil-Am History Month, an annual celebration of Fil-Ams’ history and experiences in the U.S. observed every October. One of the center’s projects is a series of short documentaries commemorating first-generation manongs (older male relatives) who passed away at the Daguhoy Lodge in Stockton. The project looks to tap into the manongs’ experiences at the time, through what was left behind in their trunks. “As we celebrate FilipinoAmerican History Month this October, we know that discrimination against Filipino Americans is nothing new,” reads the statement on the incident. For much of the 1920s to 1930s, Filipinos in the United States were accused of taking jobs, being criminals, and fraternizing with white women, thus being subject to many mob attacks and raids.
The areas of Watsonville, California — just two hours away from Stockton, for example — became a hotspot of friction where mobs ultimately led to the death of a Filipino worker named Fermin Tobera. In response to the anti-Filipino aggressions happening throughout the West Coast, Philippine officials organized a “national day of humiliation” in Manila — thousands were said to have gathered in the capital’s Luneta Park to commemorate Tobera. On September 28, 2011, the state of California officially apologized to Filipino Americans through an Assembly resolution (ACR-74) authored by Assemblyman Luis A. Alejo. “Filipino Americans have a long and documented history of suffering discrimination, prejudice, and animosity in the State of California,” read one line of the resolution. “Filipino Americans endured past transgressions and wrongs committed against them through the implementation of state policies and the passage of certain laws,” read another. The city of Stockton itself, once had the largest population of Filipinos outside of the Philippines between the 1920s to 1960s, according to the Little Manila Center. Main Street, on which the center is located, was once the city’s dividing line for people of color in the 1930s. Filipinos were consequently not allowed to go north of the street, and signs saying “Positively no Filipinos allowed” were openly displayed, according to the center. The weekend just before the incident, students took photos with a replicated sign at a community event in remembrance of the street’s history. The sign now hangs over the center’s ripped banners for the same reason. “Yeah, this is a real tragedy, but we need to see how we can turn this tragedy into a prospect,” said Delvo who chooses to use the incident as a learning tool, and hopes that those who see it learn a bit about the early experience of Filipino Americans in California. “We’re just adding to this history of what was happening in the past — we can’t just wash it off,” he added.
And it’s not just the histories and aggressions against Filipino Americans Delvo wants to shed light on. “Ripping down some signs is kind of like we got the lesser evil side,” he said referring to the overall racial climate that has been affecting other ethnic groups. “If anything, this incident serves as a reminder for all Filipinos and all Asian Americans that we should be in solidarity with the oppressed,” said Delvo. “We are not excluded from that.” As for the young students who first discovered the damage, they are not letting it get in the way of their Fil-Am History Month performances. “The show must go on,” said Batugo who encouraged his students to channel their positive energy into their art. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)
have already declared local outbreaks, especially among the homeless communities and illegal drug users. “The California Department of Public Health shall take all measures necessary to obtain hepatitis A vaccines and prioritize the vaccination of at-risk individuals in affected locations,” reads the proclamation issued by Brown. The action will allow California to purchase additional vaccines, and distribute them to the affected areas. The outbreak traced back to San Diego’s homeless population where clean toilets and handwashing facilities are not easily accessible. The county declared a local public health emergency early September. Santa Cruz and Los Angeles have since also been experiencing outbreaks, but to lesser extents. The latest California Department of Public Health (CDPH) update as of October 6, tallies a total of 576 affected by the virus — 490 from San Diego, 71 from Santa Cruz, 8 from Los Angeles, and 7 from other California areas. A total of 386 people have been hospitalized. Because the hepatitis A virus is typically transmitted through contamination by feces, close physical contact, or through eating virus contaminated food, the risk of person-to-person transmission is high. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), those affected may experience
any of the following symptoms: “fever, malaise, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark-coloured urine and jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).” The virus is also said to be very hard to kill and can live for months outside of the human body, which is why handwashing with water and soap is extremely important. Waterless hand sanitizers and most cleaning fluids are not effective, according to the CDPH. Hepatitis A infections are in most cases mild, with an incubation period of around 14-28 days, according to the WHO. Yet while most people may make a full recovery and even develop immunity, hepatitis A infections can be fatal for those that already have liver damage. Thus, those with hepatitis B or C, are at higher risk of acute infection and death if infected by hepatitis A. The UCLA Asian Liver Program states that hepatitis B and C related diseases are the leading killers among Asians. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) constitute less than five percent of the total U.S. population, but make up over 50 percent of Americans with chronic hepatitis B. Furthermore, at least onethird of Asian Americans in the U.S. may not know they have chronic hepatitis B infection. Prevention efforts
Experts say vaccinating atrisk populations and making sanitation improvements are the most effective control and prevention measures for person-to-person transmission outbreaks. Approximately 80,000 vaccine doses have been distributed by the CDPH since the outbreak began last spring — early traces go as far back as November 2016. The department claims that over 95 percent of adults are protected after one dose, and close to 100 percent of adults are protected after the recommended two doses, making the vaccine highly effective. Local health departments have also been providing handwashing stations and toilet access to further control and prevent the outbreak from getting worse. More than 100 hand-washing stations have been installed around San Diego, according to ABC News. County workers have also done street cleaning by powerwashing streets with bleach and chlorine. “By disinfecting our sidewalks and making additional public restrooms available 24/7, we’re following the direction of county health officials to address the unsanitary conditions that have helped fuel this outbreak,” Craig Gustafson, the county mayor’s senior director of communications told the San Diego Union-Tribune in September. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)
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From the Front Page
october 20-26, 2017 • NorcAL ASIAN JoUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Social Security announces 2% benefit increase for 2018
MONTHLY Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 66 million Americans will increase 2.0 percent in 2018, the Social Security Administration announced Friday, October 13. The 2.0 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits payable to more than 61 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2018. Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 29, 2017.
(Note: some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits) The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum)
will increase to $128,700 from $127,200. Of the estimated 175 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2018, about 12 million will pay more because of the increase in the taxable maximum. Information about Medicare changes for 2018, when announced, will be available at www.medicare.gov. The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated. To read more, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/cola. n
Trump to hold bilateral meeting with Duterte in Manila by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com
Viray
PRESIDENT Donald Trump is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with President Rodrigo Duterte and other leaders as he visits Manila next month. The Philippines would be one of Trump’s stops as he embarks on his Asian trip from November 3 to 14, the White House said. The American leader is expected to arrive in Manila on November 12 to attend the special gala celebration dinner for the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The Philippine government earlier said that Trump will receive a “very warm welcome in Manila.” “President Duterte is looking forward to welcoming President Trump in Manila. Our people are excited to see the first face-toface meeting between our two leaders,” Foreign Affairs Secre-
Pres. Donald Trump
tary Alan Peter Cayetano said in a statement released September 30. Trump will also attend the 40th anniversary of US-ASEAN relations during the US-ASEAN Summit on November 13. The U.S. president will also travel to Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam and Hawaii. “The president’s travel will underscore his commitment to longstanding United States alliances and partnerships, and reaffirm United States leadership in promoting a free and open Indo-
White House photo
Pacific region,” the White House said in a statement. Trump’s will first visit Hawaii to receive a briefing from the U.S. Pacific Command and visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. On November 5, he will begin his visit to Asia with Japan and participate in bilateral meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Trump will also hold bilateral meetings with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang. He will participate in the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Danang, Vietnam. n
SENATE PROBE ON HAZING DEATH CONTINUES. Senator Panfilo Lacson (3rd from right), chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, along with (from right to left) Senators Grace Poe, Juan Miguel Zubiri, and Sherwin Gatchalian, listens to a presentation made during the Senate inquiry Wednesday, October 18, on the death of University of Santo Tomas law student Horacio Castillo III. Castillo died last September 17, 2017 from injuries allegedly sustained during a hazing rite by members of the Aegis Juris fraternity. Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo
Tourism Sec. Teo revives... PAGE A2 t Aegis band. Acclaimed actor Piolo Pascual was tapped to sing the jingle, introduced as the newest Tourism Ambassador. He was, however, unable to join last night’s event. “We are looking at positive reaction from the United States, Japan, Middle East and Hong Kong as these are the places where a lot of Filipino communities are. Eventually, we hope to spur more travel from other areas, the tourism chief said
“Bring Home a Friend is our shout-out to the world to come and see the Philippines: a country of diverse cultures, rich traditions, and unrivaled biodiversity,” the Secretary added. Participating officers from the different tourism industry associations, foreign diplomatic community, congress, support government agencies and media promised to give their all-out support to the program. For more information, log on to www.bringhomeafriend.
Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal... PAGE A2 t and peace. “He is a man of peace,” he said. “All he wanted was peace and reconciliation. If there was trouble in the Church or politics, he would always intervene. Cardinal Vidal’s death is one turning point in the history of the Catholic Church or even in the political or whole Philippine setting.” Key figure in Edsa revolution A year after he was named cardinal by then Pope John Paul II, who’s now a saint, Vidal was elected president of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) from 1986 to 1987.
He and the CBCP condemned the results of the February 1986 snap elections and called the people for a “non-violent struggle for justice” against the abuses of then President Ferdinand Marcos. A CBCP report stated that Vidal led the rest of the Philippine bishops and made a joint declaration against the government and result of the snap election. “He called the shots for the Edsa revolution,” said Dakay who served as Vidal’s secretary from 1984 to 2008. Although he was instrumental in toppling down the regime of Marcos, Vidal flew to Hawaii to give the former president the Sacrament of Extreme Unction, a sacrament given to seriously ill person. “He [Marcos] could no longer talk, so what I did was I instructed him to press my hands if he committed the sins that I mentioned. He followed,” Vidal said in an earlier interview. In 1989, then President Corazon Aquino requested Vidal to convince Gen. Jose Comendador, then the Air Force chief who was sympathetic to the rebel forces fighting her government, to peacefully surrender. Vidal repeatedly appealed to Comendador, who eventually gave up. Vidal’s intervention averted what could have been a bloody coup. In 2001, Vidal also played a silent role in the EDSA 2 revolution. While another uprising was done by the people, the cardinal privately advised then President Joseph Estrada to step down from office. Estrada heeded the advice of his spiritual adviser. Vidal, however, supported former President Gloria MacapagalArroyo’s move to grant a pardon to Estrada who was convicted of plunder in 2007. On Dec. 7, 2010 the Senate recognized Vidal’s services and
leadership through a resolution that read: “It is resolved by the Senate, to honor Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Archbishop of Cebu, for his service to the people of Cebu, providing spiritual leadership and inspiration, helping the community avert or survive several crises and conflicts, often acting as a peacekeeper and giving the voice of moderation amid clashing views and interests in local and national issues.” Sickly seminarian But Vidal almost didn’t become a priest. In an earlier interview, Vidal was very sickly when he was a seminarian in Mogpog, a third class municipality in Marinduque. He was eventually sent home and was on the verge of not getting ordained as priest because he was sickly. “I was so sad, and while I was on my way home, I passed by a church, and it was there where I intently prayed before the Blessed Sacrament,” he said. His prayers were answered: His health improved. Vidal was eventually ordained a priest on March 17, 1956 by the Bishop Alfredo Maria Aranda Obviar, who died on Oct. 1, 1978, and is now a candidate for sainthood. Vidal was then assigned as assistant priest of a parish in his hometown in Mogpog and was a professor of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Seminary in Sariaya, Quezon. He was later named a bishop and appointed as coadjutor bishop of Malolos in 1971. Less than two years later, Vidal was appointed Archbishop of Lipa by Pope Paul VI. Reluctant to go to Cebu In 1981, Vidal was sent to Cebu by then Pope John Paul II and was named a coadjutor archbishop with the right to succeed then Cebu Archbishop Julio Cardinal Rosales. At that time, he didn’t want to
online via DOT’s website www. tourism.gov.ph or visit the Department of Tourism Facebook page and Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube accounts. Kindly like, follow, and support the official BHAF social media accounts: Facebook: bringhomeafriendPH Twitter: bringhomePH Instagram: bringhomeafriendPH Email: bringhomeafriend@ tourism.gov.ph Hashtag: #BHAF2 #bringhomeafriend n go to Cebu since he didn’t speak the Cebuano language. “I personally went to Pope John Paul II to express my request,” Vidal said. “But he told me: ‘I am also from Poland, and yet the Lord brought me to Rome.’ So I openly accepted my assignment in Cebu. I learned the language and eventually fell in love with my assignment. The people of Cebu are so good to me.” When Rosales died in 1983, Vidal took over the Archdiocese of Cebu, the largest in the country with 400 diocesan priests, 200 others from various religious congregations, and about four million Catholics. Although 75 was supposed to be the mandatory retirement age, Vidal waited for more than four years for the Vatican to approve his request to retire. In October 2010, Pope Benedict XVI accepted Vidal’s resignation. Vidal was replaced by Archbishop Jose Palma on Jan. 13, 2011. Instead of going back to Marinduque, Vidal chose to spend his retirement in Cebu. He stayed at a retirement house at the Sto. Niño Village in Banilad, Cebu City. Although he had already retired, Vidal’s advice was still sought after by Church and political leaders in the country. In July 2016, Vidal went to Malacañang and met with President Rodrigo Duterte, hoping to bridge the gap between Catholic Church bishops and the new administration. Duterte earlier criticized the Catholic Church for alleged sins committed by the clergy describing the Church, at one point, as the “most hypocritical institution.” When he arrived at the Music Room of Malacañang, Duterte bowed his head and kissed the prelate’s hand, and even cracked jokes with Vidal. During their conversation, Vidal said he promised to pray for the president. n
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 20-26, 2017
DATELINE PHILIPPINES
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CHR ‘hopeful’ PDEA will follow rule of law in drug war operations by AJPRESS MANILA - The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expressed hope that the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) will adhere to the rule of law in carrying out the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. In a statement issued Tuesday, October 17, CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann De Guia said the commission is “hopeful that professionalism will govern the PDEA in implementing the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.” The CHR likewise expressed optimism that the campaign against illegal drugs will be carried out with “strict adherence to the rule of law.” In a memorandum dated Tuesday, October 10, President Rodrigo Duterte designated the PDEA
as the “sole agency” to conduct all campaigns and operations against illegal drugs. Under the new order, Duterte removed anew the Philippine National Police (PNP) from the forefront of the so-called drug war amid public outrage over alleged police abuses and deaths of thousands of suspects. “The PNP shall, at all times, maintain police visibility, as a deterrent to illegal drug activities leaving to the PDEA, however, the conduct of anti-illegal drug operations as aforestated,” the memorandum read. The CHR, which has repeatedly criticized the drug war over its alleged human rights violations, expressed approval over the new directive designating PDEA as the campaign’s sole lead agency. De Guia described the president’s order as an “indication
that the administration is willing to listen to public clamor for the observance of due process in its campaign against illegal drugs.” She noted that assigning the lead role to PDEA “will allow the PNP to devote more effort to solving and preventing ordinary crimes, including vigilante killings and possible EJKs (Extrajudicial Killings) resulting from police operations.” The country’s national human rights institution likewise said it expects other law enforcement agencies, such as the PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), “to recognize the lead role of and coordinate” with PDEA in the campaign. “We also look forward to a more collaborative relationship with PDEA towards shaping a strategy that is more respectful of life and human dignity,” De Guia added. ■
TRANSPORT STRIKE MONITOR. National Capital Region Police Office Chief Police Director Oscar Albayalde (left) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Spokesperson Atty. Aileen Lizada (center) check the transport strike situation along Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City on Monday, October 16. Transport group Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) holds a two-day protest rally against the PUV modernization program. PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
Pacquiao urged to decide soon on boxing career Duterte not keen on extending his term by DINO
MARAGAY Philstar.com
MANNY Pacquiao’s longtime promoter is calling for the boxer to make up his mind soon on whether he will retire or continue fighting. Because according to Top Rank Inc. president Todd DuBoef, Pacquiao’s potential opponents in the welterweight division won’t be waiting for the Filipino icon to come up with a decision. Speaking recently to John Dennen of boxingnewsonline.net, DuBoef said they are still keenly awaiting Pacquiao’s next move. “I think it’s wait and see. Right now he’s predominantly consumed with his job of being a politician and I think probably the best thing to do is wait and see what he wants to do and what his intention is and how he wants to proceed,” said the Top Rank executive. “Because now he’s an elected official, he’s there for the people, that’s his primarily role. We are sitting here. We wait for him to let us know what his intentions are and what he feels like doing and then we go from there,” he added.
Pacquiao hasn’t fought since losing the WBO welterweight title to Jeff Horn in Brisbane, Australia last July, and is most likely done for the year. A planned rematch between the two fighters was scrapped due to various reasons, and now the 29-year-old is set to defend the title against another foe. DuBoef said Horn and the undefeated Terence Crawford — another potential Pacquiao opponent — will move on with their careers with or without fighting the Filipino star. “Horn’s not waiting for Pacquiao and Terence Crawford’s not waiting for Pacquiao. The welterweight division is a wonderful division; all these guys are wonderful athletes. They’re not going to wait on guys,” he continued. Horn, for instance, has reportedly already dropped a Pacquiao rematch in his immediate plans. Assuming he defeats British boxer Gary Corcoran in December, the Brisbane native will instead go for UFC star Conor McGregor. Pacquiao is currently occupied with his work in the Philippine senate, and if he ever decides to
by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
Sen. Manny Pacquiao
Philstar.com photo
return to the boxing ring, it will be early next year. DuBoef, for his part, just wants to find out what’s on Pacquiao’s mind so they, too, will know when to start working. “If he wants to dedicate himself to the people in the Philippines, that’s what his duty is, that’s what he should do. And if he wants to come back and have a fight in the fall or the spring, winter, whatever it is, obviously we love working with him and his team and facilitating his boxing career,” he said.
PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte said he has no plans to remain in power beyond his term despite a recent threat that he would declare a revolutionary government if destabilization plots against him continue. In a speech on Tuesday, October 17, Duterte emphasized that he would only “shame” his family by trying to cling onto power through a revolutionary government. “Nobody is interested in this government to go beyond my term. I do not intend to perpetuate myself,” the president said. “Their claims that I would set up a revolutionary government because I would like to cling to power, son of, if possible I would have walked away. It’s just dishonorable,” he added. Last week, Duterte warned that he would not hesitate to set up a revolutionary government in order to avert the country from falling into chaos amid the alleged destabilization efforts by his political enemies. The president accused the Communist Party of the Philippines
(CPP), the elite, terrorist groups, and even the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), as among the entities allegedly working on his ouster. “’Pag ang destabilization ninyo patagilid na at medyo magulo na (If your destabilization slips into chaos), I will not hesitate to declare a revolutionary government until the end of my term,” he said in a report on state-run PTV News on Friday, October 13. Referring to the CPP, Duterte added, “I will arrest all of you and we can go to a full-scale war against the Reds.” Unlike imposing martial law, wherein he is mandated to report to Congress within 60 days upon declaration, Duterte said his hands would not be tied if he declared a revolutionary government instead. In a statement, Palace Spokesperson Ernesto Abella clarified that Duterte’s pronouncement was only an “alternative plan” just in case “anarchy” emerges amid the alleged plan to undermine the present administration. “He’s (Duterte) not threatening the president’s critics about that. He’s simply saying that if this happens if it leads to anarchy, this is
what the alternative could happen,” the Palace official said. Abella added that, “So in other words, he’s simply laying the premise that what could happen. The president, you have to remember, is, again and again, has access to all kinds of information. And he may have his own reasons for doing so.” He also pointed out that the president’s ouster claim was not baseless, saying that Duterte “has his own sources.” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Major General Restituto Padilla denied knowing of any destabilization plan against Duterte but agreed that the president could have sourced his information from other agencies. “Well, the truth is we only provide some part of what we monitor from our intelligence side. There are other agencies that monitor other parts of our archipelago, as well as other external stations,” the military official said. “The information that goes to the president is all-encompassing, as mentioned by Secretary Abella. And we don’t have a hand in the information that the president may initially receive,” Padilla added.
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OCTOBER 20-26, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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OPINION
Neutralized
FEATURES
THE photographs are grisly. But just to leave no doubt that this time, reports of the deaths were not exaggerated, graphic photos were released showing Abu Sayyaf commander Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute bloodied and dead. Hapilon, said to be the Southeast Asian leader of the terrorist Islamic State, had a $5-million prize on his head plus another P10-million bounty from the Philippine government. The military was preparing to capture Hapilon when he launched the attack on Marawi back in May together with the brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute. Much of the once bustling city is now in ruins in the wake of the most serious attempt yet to set up an Islamic extremist base in Mindanao. The siege has had a grievous toll. As of Monday, Oct. 16 over 800 Maute terrorists had been killed in the fighting. So far, the military has lost 162 soldiers, with over 1,700 others wounded, while 47 civilians have died. Although remnants of the Mautes still have about 20 civilian hostages, the neutralization of Hapilon and Omar Maute raises hopes that the fighting will soon be over. The military counts fewer than 30 Maute members still in Marawi together with a handful of foreign fighters mostly from Indonesia and Malaysia. Now the challenge is to ensure that the Mautes will
not regroup and launch a similar attack. The group clearly took the government by surprise, depleting the resources of the Armed Forces and keeping the fighting alive for nearly five months now. Armed Forces officials said that with the deaths, “the terrorists will crumble.” But the whereabouts of Abdullah Maute are unknown, and the group can prove to be like the Abu Sayyaf, which has been decapitated several times but keeps sprouting new heads like a Hydra monster. For several decades now, the military has pursued a counterterrorism and counterinsurgency strategy that has been summarized as “clear, hold, consolidate and develop.” The clearing of the threat is almost over in Marawi, and the military is holding on to abandoned battlegrounds. The government must now step in to consolidate victories in the fighting and pour resources into rehabilitation and development of the battered city. If properly implemented at each step, it is a sound strategy that can prevent a repeat of the Marawi siege. (Philstar.com)
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
SWS vs Pulse Asia: Satisfaction rating or job approval rating?
THIS is the fourth time that I am writing Opinion about public opinion polling, so I do not enter the subject cold. I have an idea why the SWS and Pulse Asia surveys differ YEN MAKABENTA so much from each other and why they reached contrasting conclusions about the public’s perception of the Duterte presidency. In a column published last July (“SWS looks for satisfaction; the world asks about approval”, Manila Times. July 13), I commented that SWS in the Philippines looks for public satisfaction in its opinion research; while in contrast, pollsters in practically all other countries (the US and Europe included) ask about approval of the job performance of their presidents and prime ministers. Satisfaction not the same as approval I wrote at the time: “Satisfaction is not the same as approval. ‘Satisfaction’ means the fulfillment of a desire. Or reparation for a wrong done. ‘Approval’ means agreement, sanction, favorable opinion, or
commendation. Why does SWS in its surveys ask about satisfaction, instead of approval of job performance, or support for presidential policies? Why does this Filipino opinion researcher persist in using its satisfaction angle in measuring public opinion on presidential performance, instead of the near universal approval/ disapproval method of inquiry which is used by almost all pollsters in advanced countries. The Philippines is the only country, and Filipinos are the only people in the world who are asked whether they are satisfied or dissatisfied with their president. With this survey angle, the president or any public official is treated like a meal, a dish or a fruit which we consume, or perhaps a person who is in our employ or an object of affection. I have long wondered why against standard research practice, SWS insists on its idiosyncratic terminology and method.” Contrasting survey reports My interest at the time was not mis-
THERE are a couple of profoundly sensational things President Rodrigo Duterte threatens to do, and he’s got us on tenterhooks waiting to see what he will finally do. Given his well-known track record, no one knows if he really means what he says, and what truly motivates him. Where crime specialists increasingly find the motive for certain crimes more elusive, we find ourselves at sea trying to divine why DU30 does the things he does and says the things he says while supposedly trying to convert an alleged negative2 percent trust rating to a full 80 percent. First, he has threatened to cut diplomatic ties with Europe and give the European diplomats in the country 24 hours to pack up and leave. This was a real bolt out of the blue. Our contacts and familiar ties with Europe antedate our contacts and familiar ties with the new world. Europe was the intellectual and cultural homeland of our first patriots; it was there where Jose Rizal wrote the Noli and Fili; where Graciano Lopez Jaena and Marcelo H. del Pilar authored their most trenchant La Solidaridad pieces; where Juan Luna won the gold medal and international recognition for the Spoliarium;
while his trust rating declined to 61 percent from 75 percent in June. The SWS non-commissioned survey from September 23-27 used face-toface interviews of 1,500 adults aged 18 years old and above nationwide. Of those surveyed, 600 were from Balance Luzon, while 300 each were from Metro Manila, the Visayas and Mindanao. In fact, SWS in its report skirted the verdict of its own research. The poll reported that Duterte got 67 percent satisfied in the satisfaction survey, and “73 percent” in the trust poll. SWS diverted attention from these towards its so-called “net satisfaction rating,” which represents the difference between the number of those satisfied and those dissatisfied. Through this keyhole, SWS found a way to pronounce a decline in Duterte’s rating by contrasting the new poll with the numbers in past surveys. By legerdemain, in short, SWS was able to present a decline in Duterte’s popularity. What credence should we give this kind of opinion research which runs away from its own findings? Who commissioned this survey of Duterte’s decline?
Pulse Asia survey: Switch to job approval In contrast, Pulse Asia’s report on its survey was straightforward. The pollster ran a survey on the public’s approval of Duterte’s job performance. The survey result was as follows: “President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval rating is down two percentage points in September from that of June 2017, but 80 percent of Filipinos still approve of his work and trust him,” according to the Pulse Asia survey released Friday, October 13. According to Pulse Asia, Duterte enjoys an 80 percent approval rating, slightly lower than June’s 82 percent. Eighty percent of Filipinos have “big trust” in him, too, according to the survey. Duterte’s approval rating was highest among the poorest Filipinos, with Class E rating at 86 percent, Class D at 79 percent, and Class ABC at 75 percent. Although 80 percent of those surveyed trust Duterte, 14 percent are undecided. Six percent, meanwhile, said they distrust him. Duterte got 85 percent trust rating among Class E; 80 percent among Class D; and 74 percent among Class ABC.
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Threatening a civil war
Opinion
FRANCISCO TATAD
placed, because this week, SWS and its survey landed in the middle of a national controversy. In survey research conducted in the same month (September) and reports released within weeks of each other, SWS and Pulse Asia presented the nation a contrasting picture of how the Filipino public views the job performance of President Duterte. SWS reported that DU30 had suffered a precipitous decline in his satisfaction rating. For good measure, it also found a decline in DU30’s trust rating. Pulse Asia, in sharp contrast, reported that in its survey, DU30 got an 80 percent approval rating, as 8 out of 10 Filipinos fully approved of what the president was doing in office. Why did the two surveys differ so sharply? Were they taken from different samples of Filipinos? SWS survey: the magic of net satisfaction In its survey report released on October 8,SWS reported that “President Rodrigo Duterte’s satisfaction and trust ratings dropped in September.” The President’s satisfaction rating dropped to 48 percent, 18 points down from his 66 percent rating last June
where Spain and the United States drew up (in the December 10, 1898 Treaty of Paris) the territorial boundaries of the new Philippine Republic. Is Europe the enemy? Just when and how did Europe become our enemy? As a Filipino, I would like to know; I am sure the Europeans, who must have thought they had a stable working relationship with the Philippines all these years, would also like to know. If Europe had become our enemy, shouldn’t DU30 order his diplomats and all Filipinos living and working there to come home, and his minions in Congress to declare war? Wouldn’t this be a wonderful way of putting to use the firearms shipment we have just received and will probably be receiving still from China? Second, DU30 has threatened to install a revolutionary government if he sees the “Yellows,” the “Reds,” or any other group “destabilizing” his dysfunctional government. “Destabilization” does not have a universally agreed definition: DU30 tends to regard mere “dissent” as “dissidence” and therefore “destabilizing.” His attack dogs tend to denounce honest and constructive criticism as “detraction,” which, correctly understood, means exposing somebody’s private fault for no legitimate and sufficient public motive.
Shredding the Constitution first Since a revolutionary government overthrows an existing constitutional order, this means DU30 intends to destroy the Constitution before any other party has the chance to destroy it. Since when has the total destruction of the Constitution become a sitting government’s legitimate response to any party seeking to overthrow that same government? This seems the most novel and absurd of all political theories, but it’s there. In both instances, something seems terribly amiss. There is no sign that either pronouncement is the product of any deep, coherent or rigorous intellectual exercise. Both appear to be conclusions without any valid premises. In fact, if we have not heard DU30 personally making the threats himself, we could not possibly imagine the President of any fairly literate and civilized country or any President for that matter making such threats without choking in mid-sentence. But DU30 has made them with the same apparent resolve with which he had threatened to destroy his drug-related targets, which had been quickly destroyed; it would seem foolish for us to ignore them or take any chances. So back to the first question: when and how did Europe become the enemy? Who put DU30 up to it?
European protesters It would seem DU30 was reacting to a group of Westerners, including some European parliamentarians, that demanded that he “stop the killings” and “stop silencing dissent,” after visiting the Philippines under the sponsorship of Progressive Alliance, a private group critical of the killings. Short of proposing economic sanctions, the group suggested that the European Union tighten its terms of trade with the Philippines for human rights reasons. At the same time, a director of Human Rights Watch suggested that the Philippines be removed from the UN Human Rights Council based in Geneva, which has condemned DU30’s record, and insisted that DU30 allow Agnes Callamard, the UN Special Rapporteur on extra-judicial executions, to investigate the drug killings, without any preconditions or limitations. DU30 may have been further incensed by one erroneous report, given prominent play in one newspaper, which claimed that a USAID assistant administrator for Europe and Asia was part of the European group. It appears that the individual concerned used to occupy that said position from 2016 to 2017 under the Obama administration, but had since become a private citizen. President Donald Trump has since named one Margot Ellis
to the position. If DU30 had read the report without being able to fact-check what he was reading, he would have found reason to be beside himself. Last year, an EU resolution expressed concern over the “extraordinarily high numbers killed during police operations” and urged DU30 “to put an end to the current wave of extra-judicial executions and killings.” But relations between the Philippines and Europe operate normally, according to an EU diplomat; in fact, the Philippines is negotiating a trade agreement with the EU, which allows 6,200 products to enter the Eurozone duty-free. How then do we react to this unexpected threat to cut off ties with the EU? Pls don’t take us seriously Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella has explained that DU30’s outburst should not be taken seriously; it was the result of misleading information the President had received about the European protesters. He did not know that no European government was involved at all. Reassuring, or frightening? It means we have a President who can be provoked to extremes by simple newspaper reports. Anything short of saccharine praise is bound to make him hit the ceiling; if you want to please him you attack those who criticize him, even if you cannot find anything in him worth praising. This wasn’t the first time
DU30 raged against the EU. In an earlier outburst, he said he was rejecting all loans and grants from the EU because of alleged conditionalities, an allegation denied by European officials. Then as now, the real provocation was the criticism of the drug killings. According to Abella, there is no plan to expel any European diplomat from the Philippines. No plan to ask overseas Filipino workers in Europe to come home either. Former Senator Ed Angara, DU30’s special envoy to the EU, can now invite all the EU ambassadors to his beach resort in Baler, Aurora, and reassure them it was all a tantrum. All should be well until the next tantrum. President Trump and other world leaders should be able to enjoy the warmest Filipino hospitality during the Asean summit in November without any anxieties about DU30’s mercurial temper. The RG threat What about the threat to establish a revolutionary government? It isn’t a president’s most responsible statement. DU30 won 38 percent of all the votes in the last election and is now in charge of our constitutional government. The crooked opinion pollsters have tried and are still trying to make the people believe that DU30 remains popular despite the fear of the majority that they might get killed in his
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 20-26, 2017
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Liberal Party tells Duterte: Focus on Marawi rehabilitation instead of destabilization talks by audrey
Morallo Philstar.com
SAFE MEAT FOR ALL. National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) Executive Director, Dr. Ernesto S. Gonzalez (left), gets a free taste of meat products sold at the NMIS Meat Fair held in observance of the “Meat Safety Consiousness Week 2017” themed “Mula Katayan Hangang saTahanan, Malinis na Karne ang Laan” at the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) compound, Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City on Tuesday, October 17. PNA photo by Joey O. Razon
‘If PDEA fails, UN can help solve drug woes’ by Christina
Mendez
Philstar.com
MANILA — Disappointed by the meddling of the United Nations in his drug war, President Rodrigo Duterte said he would be asking the body to look for a better solution for the country’s vast problem on illegal drugs if the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) fails to make a dent in the menace by next year. In a speech in Camarines Sur last night, Duterte said the mem-
bers of the UN have been critical of his drug war, which has been marred by killings since he was elected into office. “We will go to the United Nations, (and the) human rights (activists)… we will ask them to solve the problem for us… Drugs is a problem worldwide. Even the Americans are having a headache,” he said. Duterte expressed full support to PDEA director general and former police general Aaron Aquino
to take up the job of ridding the country of illegal drugs. Barely a week after he designated the agency to lead the drug war, Duterte noted that PDEA is undermanned with only a little over 1,000 personnel – a big difference when compared with the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s over 175,000 members. He told the PNP not to interfere with PDEA on drug-related operations to avoid being dragged into the issue anew.
SWS vs Pulse Asia: Satisfaction rating... PAGE A6 Approval ratings of top national officials have all dropped, albeit by varying degrees, according to the survey, which was conducted from September 24-30, 2017 through face-to-face interviews with 1,200 adults. End of an era Reaction to the surveys was predictable. The opposition, especially the Liberal Party and the yellow media, lapped up the tale of Duterte’s decline. Rappler. the yellow website, had a field day analyzing the SWS report. It majestically opined: “Cracks are beginning to show in President Duterte’s image as a ‘populist’ strongman. “The latest SWS survey seems to signal the end of that era.” The reply, after Pulse Asia released its survey, was not only ecstatic for the government; it was devastating for SWS and the yellow crowd. The Daily Tribune in an editorial blasted SWS as having become part of the yellow campaign against President Duterte. It said:
“The campaign will go full throttle using the recent results of survey ratings showing a substantial drop in the ‘net’ ratings of Rody despite showing a clear majority of 73 percent with much trust and 67 percent being satisfied with his performance. “It seems that pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS) is part of the yellow offensive too as prior to the release of the survey showing a drop in Rody’s net rating it released a series of June reports showing results from a poll on the conduct of Rody’s war on drugs. “Released on different days in the run-up to the satisfaction and performance poll on Rody were the reports on ‘3 of 5 Filipinos agree that only poor drug pushers are killed’; ‘nearly half of Filipinos mistakenly believe drug use is punishable by death’; and ‘90 percent say it is important that drug suspects be captured alive.’ “The reports were quoting from just one survey which was done June 23 to 26. Just two days for a nationwide face to face interviews with respondents survey and with leading questions to boot?
Threatening a civil... PAGE A6 murderous drug war, which has already killed thousands. But for those who see that right is right and wrong is wrong, no amount of fraudulent polling could make DU30 appear acceptable, least of all popular. So, if the government is failing, it is not because the Constitution, which guarantees the sanctity of human life, the inviolability of the family and marriage, the supremacy of the rule of law and due process, is failing, but because DU30 rejects these human and constitutional values and regards them as antithetical to his desired political, economic and social order. The government is failing not because the Constitution is failing, but because DU30 is failing.
Against the Constitution and the State If DU30 believes the solution to his problems is to abolish the Constitution, then he must be prepared to contend against the people, who are the real authors of the Constitution; against the Church which confirms the moral and spiritual as well as the temporal and eternal values of the people; and against the Armed Forces of the Philippines, whose goal is to secure the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the national territory, as constitutional protector of the people and the State. DU30 must be prepared to be declared in rebellion against the Constitution he has sworn to preserve and defend, and for the God-fearing and law-abiding
“The Liberal Party of course is up to its task of keeping the domestic pressure on Rody through its attack dogs in the Senate led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th. “The yellow mob was merely waiting for just the SWS report, the manipulation obviously undertaken in how the report was packaged to highlight the negative despite the still high figures favoring Rody.” Goodbye to satisfaction Now that Pulse Asia has joined the rest of the world in conducting the straightforward and tested approval survey on job performance, it’s questionable whether SWS will still venture to conduct its satisfaction and net satisfaction surveys. It will be an even bigger mystery whether the public and the media will ever buy again numbers manufactured by SWS. Personally, I would like to see SWS conduct a survey in the aftermath of the deaths of Hapilon and Maute in Marawi, and the now certain end of the Marawi crisis. If SWS can produce a negative satisfaction rating for DU30, it will truly earn its commission. (ManilaTimes.net) Filipino people and their loyal armed forces to overthrow his rebellion. This is fraught with unimaginable dangers. It could lead to civil war, a bloody civil war, such as we have not known before, where brother will slay his own brother for nothing. Its first inevitable result would be the collapse of the State, which DU30 would like to control. And the most horrifying and damnable thing about this begins not when one’s brother’s blood begins to flow in the streets, but when the highest authority of the land decides to foist its prospect upon the people with complete nonchalance and devil-may-care spirit, as though it were a mere parlor game played by drunks at the dockside or some dark alleys. Mr. President, this is what you are doing to our people right now, in case you haven’t realized it. (ManilaTimes.net)
CITy instead of floating the possibility of a revolutionary government, members of the former ruling Liberal Party said on Tuesday, Oct. 17. Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said that Duterte should focus on the rehabilitation of the Islamic town which has been under siege since May 23 this year instead of “dwelling on baseless destabilization reports.” The government should work to provide Filipinos with more income and jobs, according to Pangilinan, the president of the LP. “The government’s resources are wasted over fake news-based destabilization. It would be better if time is spent on something that will help the country, not cause more disruption,” he said. Vice President Leni Robredo meanwhile urged the country’s leaders to unite and help one another in addressing the problems besetting the nation. She also expressed worries over accusations that some groups
were moving to oust Duterte from office which prompted the president to warn that should things go out of hand he would declare a revolutionary government. She also questioned the basis of such destabilization talks and said that these would just lead to division. “Sana hindi irresponsible iyong pagsasabi. Kasi lalong nagpaparatang nang ganiyan, lalong hindi nagkakasundo-sundo, lalong gumugulo ang sitwasyon (I just hope that these statements would not be irresponsibly issued. The more accusations like this are released the more the situation becomes chaotic),” she said. Duterte, during a speech at a federalism summit in Camarines Sur on Tuesday afternoon, reiterated that he had no plans to perpetuate himself in power despite his warning to opposition groups that he would establish a revolutionary government. Sen. Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV lauded the Armed Forces for the deaths of Isnilon Hapilon, the Islamic State-ap-
pointed leader in Southeast Asia, and Omar Maute, the remaining leader of the Maute group which led the attack on Marawi City. Aquino said the deaths of the two meant that the country was safer for all Filipinos and could lead to the lifting of martial law in Mindanao and enhanced humanitarian and rehabilitation efforts in the Islamic lakeside town of 200,000. The senator, a member of the Special Committee on Marawi City Rehabilitation, also expressed support for the return to normalcy and prosperity of local residents. “We will fully support all efforts by the government to bring normalcy back to Marawi City and restore the city from the ravages of the fighting to its full glory,” Aquino said. Over the weekend, the president opened the possibility of declaring a revolutionary government should efforts to remove him result in anarchy and as calls for him to sign bank waivers that would open his accounts to investigation continued to mount. n
PAMPUBLIKONG PAGDINIG NG LUNGSOD NG ALAMEDA TUNGKOL SA IMINUMUNGKAHING MGA SUSOG sa MGA PLANONG AKSIYON NG CDBG SA MGA TAON NG PANANALAPI 2010-2011 hanggang 2016-2017 Ang Lungsod ng Alameda (Lungsod) ay lumalahok sa Programang Blokeng Gawad sa Pagpapaunlad ng Komunidad (Community Development Block Grant, CDBG) ng Kagawaran ng Pabahay at Pagpapaunlad ng Kalunsuran (Housing and Urban Development, HUD) ng U.S. Sa Nobyembre 21, 2017, isasaalang-alang ng Konseho ng Lungsod ang iminumungkahing mga susog sa Mga Planong Aksiyon ng CDBG para sa Mga Taon ng Pananalapi 2010-2011 hanggang 2016-2017, muling naglalaan ng pondong $780,078. Ang publiko ay iniimbitahang lumahok at magbigay ng komento. Ang sumusunod ay ang iminumungkahing susog: Kategorya
Paglalarawan ng Di-Pabahay na Aktibidad
Rekomendasyon sa Muling Pagprograma ng Pagpopondo
Susog sa Taon ng Pananalapi ng Planong Aksiyon
Mga Pampublikong Pasilidad at Pagpapahusay
Palitan ang pangunahing tubo ng tubig sa interseksyon ng Eagle Ave at Everett Street upang matugunan ang mga iniaatas ng EBMUD
$ 305,078.00
10-11 ($1,147.66) 11-12 ($76,658.74) 12-13 ($18,608.91) 13-14 ($208,662.69)
Mga Pampublikong Pasilidad at Pagpapahusay
Palitan ang trailer na banyo sa Midway Shelter
$ 350,000.00
16-17 ($350,000.00)
Mga Pampublikong Pasilidad at Pagpapahusay
Muling patatagin ang pag-aari ng Lungsod na ari-arian sa San Diego Road
$ 125,000.00
13-14 ($74,987.31) 14-15 ($12,648.76) 15-16 ($26,215.77) 16-17 ($11,148.16)
C. Kabuuan ng Di-Pabahay na mga Pampublikong Pagpapahusay:
$ 780,078.00
$ 780,078.00
Pangkalahatang Kabuuan ng Muling Pagprograma ng Planong Aksiyon
$ 780,078.00
MAKUKUHA PARA SA PAGSUSURI NG PUBLIKO Simula sa Oktubre 20, 2017, ang iminumungkahing Mga Susog sa Planong Aksiyon, kabilang ang makukuhang mga detalye ng pagpopondo sa programa, ay makukuha para sa pagsusuri ng publiko sa regular na mga oras ng trabaho sa sangay sa Main Library ng Alameda Free Library, sa opisina ng Klerk ng Lungsod sa 2263 Santa Clara Avenue, at sa Awtoridad sa Pabahay, 701 Atlantic Avenue. Ang iminumungkahing Mga Susog sa Planong Aksiyon ay maaari ring makuha sa Awtoridad sa Pabahay sa website ng Lungsod ng Alameda sa www.alamedahsg.org PAGKAKATAON NA MARINIG Ang publiko ay hinihimok na lumahok sa proseso ng CDBG at upang magkomento sa mga susog sa planong aksiyon sa pagpapaunlad ng komunidad, nang pabigkas o nakasulat, alinsunod sa iskedyul na nasa ibaba: 11/21/17 Pulong ng Konseho ng Lungsod, 7:00 p.m., Mga Bulwagang Pulungan ng Konseho ng Lungsod. Pampublikong pagdinig tungkol sa iminumungkahing Mga Susog sa Planong Aksiyon para sa Mga Taon ng Pananalapi 2010-2011hanggang 2016-2017. Ang mga nakasulat na komento tungkol sa iminumungkahing Mga Susog sa Planong Aksiyon ay maaaring isumite sa Awtoridad sa Pabahay sa direksiyon na nasa itaas hanggang 4:00 p.m. sa Nobyembre 20, 2017. Papakinggan ng Konseho ng Lungsod ang mga komento at isasaalang-alang ang pagpapatupad ng Mga Susog sa Planong Aksiyon sa regular na pulong nito sa 7:00 p.m. sa Nobyembre 21, 2017, sa Tanggapan ng Lungsod, 2263 Santa Clara Avenue. Ang publiko ay hinihimok na dumalo at lumahok. Mangyaring iparating ang anumang tanong kay Lisa Fitts sa (510) 747-4349 o (510) 522-8467 (TDD). MGA TADHANA PARA SA MGA TAONG MAY KAPANSANAN Kung ang sinumang taong may interes sa paglahok sa programang Blokeng Gawad sa Pagpapaunlad ng Komunidad (CDBG) / HOME ay isang taong may kapansanan gaya ng nilinaw ng Seksiyon 504 ng Batas ng 1974 sa Rehabilitasyon na nag-aatas ng isang kaluwagan upang lumahok o magkainteres, ang isang kahilingan para sa kaluwagan ay maaaring gawin kay Lisa Fitts, (510) 747-4349 o magpadala ng email sa lfitts@alamedahsg.org. Ang naturang kahilingan ay dapat kabilang ang isang paglalarawan ng kaluwagang hinahangad, kasama ang isang pahayag ng kapansanan na nangangailangan ng kaluwagan. Anumang kahilingan para sa kaluwagan ay dapat suriin at ang isang sagot ay ipagkaloob sa loob ng limang araw ng trabaho pagkatapos matanggap ang naturang kahilingan. Ang paunawa ng anumang kaluwagan na iginawad ay agad ipagkakaloob sa humiling. Mangyaring makipag-ugnayan sa Lungsod sa (510) 747-4349 (Boses), (510) 522-8467 (TDD), o magpadala ng email sa lfitts@alamedahsg.org upang humiling ng anumang ibang makatwirang kaluwagan na maaaring kailanganin. Ang tagapag-ugnay ng Seksiyon 504 ng CDBG/HOME ay si Tonya Schuler-Cummins, na makokontak sa (510) 747-4342 o tschuler@alamedahsg.org. Ang isang kopya ng pamamaraan ng karaingan ng 504 ay matatagpuan online sa www.alamedahsg.org. MGA TADHANA PARA SA MGA RESIDENTENG HINDI NAGSASALITA NG INGLES Ang Lungsod ng Alameda ay may ugnayan ng mga empleyadong nagsasalita ng 45 wika na maaaring kumilos bilang mga tagasalin para sa mga residente na naghahangad ng impormasyon na nauukol sa mga programa ng CDBG/HOME. Kung binigyan ng paunawa nang maaga ng limang araw ng trabaho, makikipag-ayos ang Lungsod upang makakuha ng isang interpreter. Mangyaring makipag-ugnayan sa Lungsod sa (510) 747-4349 (Boses), (510) 522-8467 (TDD) o magpadala ng email sa lfitts@alamedahsg.org. PATAKARANG WALANG-DISKRIMINASYON Ang Lungsod ng Alameda ay hindi nagdidiskrimina laban sa sinumang mga tao dahil sa lahi, kulay, relihiyon, bansang pinagmulan, angkan, seks, kasarian, kinikilalang kasarian, pagpapahayag ng kasarian, oryentasyong sekswal, katayuang marital, katayuang pampamilya, pinagkukunan ng kita, henetikong impormasyon, kondisyong medikal, kapansanang pisikal o kapansanan ng isipan, o anumang ibang kategoryang protektado ng batas.
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october 20-26, 2017 • NorcAL ASIAN JoUrNAL
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 20-26, 2017
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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY OURNAL
Your Immigration Solution DEVIN M. CONNOLY AND NANCY MILLER COUNTLESS people want to live in the United States. It is, therefore, not surprising that people sometimes misrepresent facts in order to accomplish that goal. These lies are told for an obvious reason – telling the truth would not get them an immigration benefit. However, an immigration benefit obtained through a lie renders the alien removable. If (or when) the Department of Homeland Security discovers the truth, they will take steps to deport the person to his native country. An immigrant in this situation may be eligible to apply for a waiver of their prior misrepresentation pursuant to Section 237(a)(1)(H) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). And if the waiver is granted, and they are otherwise eligible, they will be able to apply for U.S. citizenship. A waiver under I N A 237(a)(1)(H) “forgives” the fraud and allows the alien to keep the green card if they are the spouse, parent, or son or daughter of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) and can meet the requirement of showing that the equities in their case outweigh the liabilities. This balance is called “favorable exercise of discretion”. The fraud or misrepresentation must be of a material fact that was made in connection with the attempt to obtain a visa or green card. The applicant must be “otherwise-admissible” to the U.S., but-for the material misrepresentation. This means that the immigrant will not be eligible for the waiver if they are inadmissible for reasons in addition to the fraud, such as criminal convictions. The waiver may be granted whether the misrepresentation was made at the U.S. Consulate or a Citizenship & Immigration Service (CIS) Office. The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) has said that a person
From fraud to waiver to citizenship in 3 not-so-easy steps
may be eligible for the waiver even if they got their green card through a sham marriage. A “sham marriage” is a marriage entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining a green card. The qualifying relative, however, may not be the spouse from the sham marriage. Many other circumstances exist for which this waiver may be appropriate. A common scenario involves a prospective immigrant who has been petitioned by an LPR parent who marries before the priority date becomes current. That petition is denied or revoked as a matter of law immediately upon the marriage – whether CIS is told about the marriage or not. Even if the parent is a USC, many years can be added to the waittime. The prospective immigrant wants their spouse and their green card so they lie at the time of the interview and say they are single. Clearly, the green card was obtained through fraud. A 237(a)(1)(H) waiver can cure the original fraud and allow the person to keep their green card – which be valid back from the date it was issued. A less common scenario involves one whose Immigration Court case was administratively closed. When he becomes eligible to obtain a green card, he lies and claims he was never in Court. CIS has no authority to grant the green card but it does not know that. So the green card that the immigrant obtained through fraud is worthless and he needs the waiver. When applying for the waiver an immigrant must demonstrate that they deserve a favorable exercise of discretion. The factors that an Immigration Judge may consider when making their decision include the immigrant’s family ties within the United States, the length of their residence in this country, whether the immigrant or any family
members would suffer hardship if the immigrant was forced to return to his or her native country, the immigrant’s employment history, the existence of any property or business ties, evidence of value or service to the community, as well other evidence of the immigrant’s good moral character. The Immigration Judge will balance these positive factors against any negative factors in an immigrant’s case. These negative factors may include the original fraud or misrepresentation, any criminal activity, or any other evidence of the immigrant’s lack of good moral character. In the end, the immigrant must demonstrate that the positive factors in their case outweigh the negative ones. A well-documented waiver application and persuasive testimony at the court hearing are essential to a successful outcome. And, yes, I did just say court. A waiver under INA § 237(a)(1)(H) may only be applied for in Immigration Court. With so much riding on the end result, it is important to retain a knowledgeable immigration attorney who is experienced in these types of waivers. And what is the end result? After being granted the waiver, the immigrant can go on to successfully apply for U.S. citizenship. That is a successful outcome. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Pasadena, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China. 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)
WHO warns on stressful work places THE World Health Organization (WHO) warned recently that unfavorable work environments could lead to physical and mental health problems. “There are many risk factors for mental health that may be present in the working environment. Most risks relate to interactions between type of work, the organizational and managerial environment, the skills and competencies of employees, and the support available for employees to carry out their work,”
the WHO said in its website. It cited that during adulthood, when a lot of time is spent at work, the experience in the workplace is one of the factors that determine a person’s overall well being. A negative working environment may lead to physical and mental health problems, harmful use of substances or alcohol, absenteeism and lost productivity, the WHO said. “Depression and anxiety disorders are common mental disorders that have an impact on
our ability to work, and to work productively,” it added. The WHO identified bullying and psychological harassment as commonly reported causes of work-related stress by workers that also present risks to their health. Other risks to mental health at work are inadequate health and safety policies; poor communication and management practices; limited participation in decisionmaking or low control over one’s
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Remittances rise to $20.72B in 8 months by LAWRENCE
AGCAOILI Philstar.com
THE amount of money sent by overseas Filipinos to the Philippines in August grew at its fastest pace in five months as new markets for skilled Filipino workers have been found, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported Monday, October 16. BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo said the strong demand for Filipino labor has been sustained due to aging populations in advanced economies and some countries in the Asian region. “Skill sets are vastly different, new markets for Filipino skills have been found,” Guinigundo said. BSP data showed personal remittances rose 9.8 percent to $2.8 billion in August from $2.56 billion in the same month last year. This was the fastest since the 10.7 percent increase and the highest since the record high $2.91 billion posted in March.
For the first eight months, personal remittances rose 6.4 percent to $20.72 billion from $19.48 billion in the same period last year. Personal remittances represent the sum of net compensation of employees, personal transfers, and
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Community Journal
OCTOBER 20-26, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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Criminal convictions Radiation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki and immigration law Health@Heart
The CTV Files Atty. LiLLi B. BAcuLi WHAT makes a non-citizen deportable? An alien or noncitizen, including a lawful permanent resident (“green card” holder) is deportable for having a conviction relating to controlled substances. Title 8 U.S.C. Section 1227(a)(2)(B)(i) states: “Any alien who at any time after admission has been convicted of a violation of . . . any law or regulation of a State, the United States, or a foreign country relating to a controlled substance (as defined in section 802 of Title 21), other than a single offense involving possession for one’s own use of 30 grams or less of marijuana, is deportable. What counts as a “conviction” for immigration purposes? “The term “conviction” means, with respect to an alien, a formal judgment of guilt of the alien entered by a court or, if adjudication of guilt has been withheld, where – (i) a judge or jury has found the alien guilty or the alien has
entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or has admitted sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilt, and (ii) the judge has ordered some form of punishment, penalty, or restraint on the alien’s liberty to be imposed, including fine, court costs or probation. Immigration consequences of a drug conviction. A non-citizen alien will still have a drug conviction for immigration purposes even after a dismissal of his/her charges following completion of a drug diversion program or a DEJ. As such, a permanent resident/green card holder who is deportable can be stripped of his or her lawful status and permanently removed (deported) from the United States. A lawful permanent resident who agrees to plead guilty in exchange for probation or entry in a diversion program or a DEJ, even after dismissal of charges under PC 1000.3, will have a conviction and will be automatically deportable and inadmissible. Worse, since this will be considered a drug conviction, the green
cardholder will also be subject to mandatory immigration detention without bond. California residents often are detained in federal prisons in isolated areas in Arizona or Texas, far from family or counsel. This is because a diversion program or a DEJ is a conviction for immigration purposes in that there is a plea and some form of punishment and restraint. Thus, although California considers there to be no conviction if the court dismisses the charges based on the defendant completing DEJ requirements, the conviction still stands under immigration laws. To eliminate a conviction for immigration purposes, the plea must be withdrawn for cause, due to a legal defect in the underlying case. The Kelly Memorandum of February 20, 2017. On February 20, 2017, the Department of Homeland (DHS) Security Secretary John Kelly issued a new policy memorandum, announcing that DHS will no longer exempt classes or categories of
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MY wife, Farida, and I just returned to Las Vegas from an 11-day Japan Explorer Cruise on the Celebrity Millennium with some colleagues, claimed to be the largest cruise vessel in Asia, at 91,000 tons, 965 ft. long, 105 beam, and an occupancy of 2,138. There were more than 300 Filipinos working admirably onboard. We felt at home, and proud of our kababayans. Besides going to Tokyo, Chiba, Yokohama, and other ports of interest in Japan; we toured Nagasaki, a city of 263,000 (among them 9,000 Japanese soldiers and 400 Allied POWs) when it was devastated by an atomic bomb dropped by American squadron commander and pilot of Bockscar, Major General Charles W. Sweeney, at 2:45 a.m. on August 9, 1945, killing about 80,000. Three days earlier at 8:15 a.m., the American B-29 bomber “Enola Gay,” piloted by BG Paul W. Tibbets deployed the world’s first atomic bomb over Hiroshima, then Japan’s 7th largest city, with a population of about 420,000. The bomb plummeted to 137,197 following the nuclear disaster. The second bombing (Nagasaki) was the final warning that led to the unconditional surrender of Japan on August 14, 1945, named V-J (Victory over Japan), which ended World War II and saved millions of lives on both sides. As of 2015, the population of Hiroshima was 1.594 million and Nagasaki, 429,508. Both are thriving cities today — vibrant, booming with millions of tourists visiting from around the world. Level of radiation mystery The radioactive particles from the atomic bombs 72 years ago were supposed to render both cities uninhabitable for thousands — and millions — of years. “Today, the background radiation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki is the same as the average amount of natural radiation present anywhere on Earth. It is not enough to affect human health,” according to scientific reports. But why? What happened? Why are these two cities in Japan safe again, so soon? Uranium-235 was used for the bomb over Hirsohima and Plutonium-239 over Nagasaki. The half-life of U-235 is 700 million years, the Pu-239, 24,000 years, if they had reach and exploded on the ground. Information from the Hiroshi-
PhiLiP S. chuA, MD, FAcS, FPcS ma and Nagasaki Peace Museums provided the answer to the mystery. Both bombs exploded high up in the air, 1,968 feet for Hiroshima and 1,800 feet for Nagsaaki. They never hit the ground. The 139 pounds of U-235 and the 12 pounds of Pu-239 were pulverized into particles and the plume dissipated by the wind over land and mostly to the sea. Data show there was only a slight increase of leukemia in Nagasaki region but there were no added incidence of cancers in and around Hiroshima. An amazing feat of luck. I could not find information as to whether these two atomic bombs (Code-named “Little Boy” for Hiroshima and “Fat Man” for Nagasaki) were specifically designed to explode high up in the air to minimize ground contamination. Those atom bombs are grenades compared to the present day nuclear bombs, which are more sophisticated, more powerful, and greater in their ability to obliterate even an entire nation. Indeed, 38-year old Kim Jong Un should grow up and realize that he could get burned (and North Korea could disappear from this earth) when he continues to play with fire with bravado and recklessness. Viral outbreaks on cruise ships Thank God, our Japan Explorer cruise was a healthy and totally enjoyable experience. Sometimes, cruises could be marred by an outbreak of illnesses. On May 9, 2016 CNN reported that, “More than 200 passengers on a British cruise ship have fallen ill with the gastrointestinal condition norovirus. The U.S. Center for Disease Control said 252 of 919 passengers — 27 percent — have gotten sick on the Balmoral, a ship operated by Fred Olsen Cruises and most recently docked in Maine. Eight of 520 crew members have come down with norovirus.” New reports on May 4, 2017 said cruise ships norovirus outbreaks at a 15-year low in 2017, the lowest
since 1994. Nearly 25 million are expected to take a cruise this year. There were outbreaks in 19 cruise ships in 2004, only two as of May this year, like in 2001. The cruise industry is mandated by law to report to the CDC any outbreak that exceeds 2 percent of the total number of passengers/crews on onboard. In the case of the Celebrity Millennium we just cruised on, that would mean an outbreak involving at least 43 persons. U.S.-bound ships from foreign ports are required to report the total number of gastrointestinal disease cases, including zero, evaluated by the medical staff 24 hours prior to arrival at U.S. ports. Norovirus is a common cause of acute gastroenteritis, popularly called the stomach bug or stomach flu, which causes about 20 million illnesses a year in the United States, most often in crowded environments like dormitories, restaurants, hotels, cruise ships, nursing homes, and day care centers. The common cold is higher in incidence than norovirus, but it is more infamous because of the mandatory strict reporting legal requirement. When exposed to norovirus, it takes about one to three days for symptoms to appear, and it usually lasts for 24 to 48 hours. Victims may be contagious for about two weeks after recovery. Hygiene is the key Since the introduction on all cruises of hand sanitizer (70 percent ethyl alcohol which kills 99.9 percent of germs within 15 seconds), the outbreaks of norovirus and other contagious illnesses on cruises have dramatically gone down. As always, the onus is on all crewmembers and guests on board. One single infected person’s virus is enough spread and contaminate the entire ship and cause an epidemic on a cruise or a hospital, household, dormitory, nursing home, restaurant, day care center, etc. The good old-fashioned handwashing, with or without soap, works wonders anywhere we are, even at home. Norovirus and common cold viruses could contaminate food, tables, chairs, plates, cups, glasses, utensils, hand rails, door knobs, elevator buttons, dialpads, counters, tables, etc. Those surfaces are “naturally” teeming with microorganisms. This is the reason why frequent handwashing and not touching
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LBC brings holiday cheers to overseas Filipinos as BOC suspends tariff act on balikbayan boxes LBC’s customers abroad who are now busy filling up Balikbayan boxes to send to their loved ones here in the country will now be able to do so without worrying about the rules and regulations imposed by the Bureau of Customs last August 1, 2017 This is after BOC Commissioner Isidro Lapena issued a memorandum last September 28, 2017 suspending the implementation of the Customs Modernization Tariff Act (CMTA) until March 31, 2018. The CMTA carried with it certain provisions which set parameters for Balikbayan shipments and who was qualified to send them so they can avail of tax exemptions. Because of the suspension, there is no more need for Overseas Filipinos (OFs) to submit documents like information sheet; a photocopy of the passport; and, invoice or proof of purchase of items to be sent thru the Balikbayan Box. There is also no need to fill up Customs’ forms detailing the gifts to be sent. There is also no more limit to the number of times an OF can send a Balikbayan Box and there is no more cap or maximum amount than each box can carry. And the better news is, the P150,000 duty and tax-free privelege on the Balikbayan Box remains! LBC, the largest and leading forwarding com-
pany in the Philippines, welcomed the development saying many Overseas Filipinos are still unaccustomed to the CMTA and that the suspension will give them time to focus, instead, on sending joy and gifts to loved ones this Holiday Season. ABOUT LBC LBC is the Philippines’ market leader in retail and corporate courier & cargo, money remittance, and logistics services. With a growing network of over 6,400 branches, hubs & warehouses, partners, and agents in over 30 countries, LBC is committed to moving lives, businesses, and communities and delivering smiles around the world. Listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange through LBC Express Holdings, Inc., LBC aims to deliver value to all of its stakeholders, as it has for over 60 years. Founded in 1945 as a brokerage and air cargo agent, LBC pioneered time-sensitive cargo delivery and 24-hour door-to-door delivery in the Philippines. Today, it is the most trusted logistics brand of the Global Filipino. LBC can move it for you: visit www.LBCexpress.com, or call telephone +632 8585 999 (Metro Manila), 1 800 10 8585 999 (Provincial), +632 9086 522 (Solutions) and follow LBCExpress (Facebook and Twitter). (Advertising Supplement)
Why banks love governance
SAN FRANCISCO—Governance is everywhere. I am slated to deliver a talk related to Ownership and Succession today to the students, faculty members and business owners at the Community College of San Francisco Ocean Campus (CCSF). This will be another interesting exchange of ideas with business owners and the academia similar to the one I did exactly a year ago when the University of San Francisco College of Business (USF) core faculty invited me to lecture on a topic as diverse as the ASEAN Integration and Its impact on the US Economy. Next month, I will resume my family business initiatives in Africa organized by the World Bank/ IFC Group and then proceed to Southwest Asia to run another governance campaign in collaboration with the country’s stock exchange. If I get “unlucky”, I will end up doing another North American engagement before or after the year ends. It will be winter so advisory work can get really challenging. Just as I thought my business coaching engagements will taper off as the year is almost at the tail end, in comes invitations to actively promote governance and succession in emerging economies like Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda in Africa and India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in South Asia.
The Kite Runner ProF. EnriquE M. SoriAno Governance is a top lending metric There is no doubt that creditors, lenders, VC’s and financial institutions are clearly biased towards businesses that are devoted to best practices or whose business and operating model revolve around corporate governance. The Asian and Global financial crisis in 1997 and 2008 revealed severe shortcomings in corporate governance. Quoting an OECD report, “when most needed, existing standards failed to provide the checks and balances that companies need in order to cultivate sound business practices.” Right after the 2008 debacle, the OECD and several global institutions launched an ambitious action plan to develop a set of recommendations for improvements in priority areas such as remuneration, risk management, board practices and the exercise of shareholder rights. The changes happening now is a result of the global wave of governance standards put in place
especially in the most vulnerable sector, the start-up businesses and family- owned enterprises. Hopefully, the collaborative and active intervention efforts will encourage founders of businesses to step up to the plate not just in their profit strategies but in establishing a structure where sound business practices can become the norm. It is a fact that one of the major hurdles for business owners is the issue of transitioning from an owner mindset (where there is weak governance structures and systems) to the new model of stewardship management (where governance is written and there is compliance of best practices). Why creditors/banks prefer businesses that espouse governance The answers point to a very important ingredient in lending money... the ability to use the fund for the right purpose and the responsibility to pay the creditor-bank on time. Corporate governance structure builds a strong family foundation and banks are naturally receptive in lending capital to a stable enterprise especially if they see a family constitution in place that captures the following: • Vision-driven and valuesbased that prepares the family and the business for the future
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COMMUNITY JOURNAL
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The November 2017 priority dates
Immigration Corner
FAMILY CATEGORY:
EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card.
*** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California
Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
October 1, 2007
January 1, 2007
First Preference
Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)
Second Preference
(2A) Spouse and minor children (below November 1, 21 years old) of green 2016 card holder
November 15, 2015
(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder
September 1, 2007
January 1, 2007
Third Preference
Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.
June 15, 1995
March 1, 1995
Fourth Preference
Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.
March 1, 1995
June 8, 1994
LABOR CERTIFICATION:
Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
Second Preference
Advanced Degree (Masters)
Third Preference
Professional/ Skilled Workers
August 1, 2016 January 15, 2016
Other Workers
Non-Skilled Workers
August 1, 2016 January 15, 2016
and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-
Current
Current
client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
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Radiation in Hiroshima and...
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The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows:
ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 20-26, 2017
the face (and those surfaces) are essential habits that significantly lower the risk of acquiring these infections. While the viruses we commonly encounter cause illnesses and misery, using hand sanitizers after touching handrails and doorknobs, etc., in public areas, and washing hands frequently
will greatly protect us. Always be aware that germs, invisible to the naked eyes, are on our skin, especially in our hands, and are swarming, ever-present, all around us. All we have to do is to wash them away, often.
*** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from
Calendar of Events across
1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS O C TO B E R 2 1
City of Carson’s 8th annual Larry Itliong Day Celebration Join the City of Carson for its 8th annual celebration of Larry Itliong Day on Saturday, Oct. 21 with a parade and program. Assembly time begins at 8 a.m., with the parade from 9 to 9:30 a.m. The program will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. It will be held at Veterans Park at 22400 Moneta Avenue, Carson, CA 90745. Admission is FREE. For more information, please call (310) 952-1743.
NaFFAA to celebrate 20th anniversary in Washington, DC The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) turns 20 years old this year. This October, several events are being planned to celebrate this milestone, which coincides with the national observance of Filipino American History Month. They will culminate with NaFFAA’s 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 21. With its theme “NaFFAA 2.0: One Voice, Four Million Strong,” NaFFAA will recognize the legacy and accomplishments of the organization over the past 20 years, and highlight its comprehensive vision to unite and amplify the voices of the four million Filipinos living in the United States. “NaFFAA 2.0” represents how NaFFAA is honoring its past while forging a new forward-thinking and balanced approach in uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse Filipino American individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. To learn more about NaFFAA or to purchase tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala, please visit www. naffaa.org.
Mutya ng Lahi in Santa Clarita, CA To celebrate Filipino-American History Month, the Fil-Am Association of SCV, Inc. proudly presents Mutya ng Lahi (Jewel of Ancestry) on Saturday, Oct. 21. It will be held at the Centre at 20880 Centre Pointe Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91351 from 6 to 10 p.m. The program will showcase traditional folk dances, songs, national costumes and an exhibition of Philippine Centennial. Tickets for the dinner and show are $35 for adults, $20 for children (4-12), and free for under 3 years. For ticket sales, please contact the following no later than Oct. 13: Emie R. Carrillo at (661) 877-2699, Zeny Justiniano at (661) 294-0181, or Zony Gordon at (661) 312-3422.
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Small business workshop in El Monte, CA TWICE, HE APPLIED FOR AN IMMIGRANT VISA. TWICE, HE WAS DENIED. FIND OUT THE FINAL SCORE THIS SUNDAY, ON ‘CITIZEN PINOY’! Joseph (center) was initially petitioned as a minor child of a green card holder, but his visa was refused at the interview because he admitted to drug use. When he aged out, his petition was reclassified to F-2B. At his second interview, he was denied for the same reason. His mother, Josie (right), and his sister, Evelyn (left), felt hopeless. They were running out of options, and were desperate. It felt like Nanay Josie’s promise of having the family reunited in America would just remain a dream. Mother and daughter consulted with leading U.S. attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel, after seeing a case similar to Joseph’s that was featured on “Citizen Pinoy.” Atty. Gurfinkel went to the U.S. Embassy in Manila and becomes a major contributor to a landmark decision and policy change that benefitted Joseph and many more. Watch a mother’s promise fulfilled on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising supplement)
Business News
Philippines looking at future with cautious optimism — BSP by LAWRENCE
AGCAOILI Philstar.com
THE Philippines is looking at the future with cautious optimism as the economic landscape has altered considerably a decade after the global financial crisis, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. said Monday, October 16. Espenilla said during the 2017 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank the world economy is now recovering but global growth remains fragile. With global growth now expected to pick up in 2017 and 2018, Espenilla said the improving outlook on economic activity, investment, manufacturing, and trade has supported a recovery in commodity prices and reduced disinflationary pressures. However, the BSP chief warned policymakers across the globe continue to face considerable challenges including the structural problems on productivity, infrastructure and inequality that serve as binding constraints to faster and more inclusive growth. He said policy uncertainty in advanced economies remains a cause for concern, while the rise of protectionist sentiment and populism worldwide put pressure on the pace of monetary policy normalization in advanced economies, and the possibility of a tightening in financial conditions. “All of these factors pose significant downside
ROMERO Philstar.com
INVESTMENT pledges in the country’s business process outsourcing sector are picking up after the Senate retained the current tax incentives for the industry, Sen. Sonny Angara said. Angara, chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, said the panel did not touch the information technology-business process management (IT-BPM)
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FACC-GLA’s Halloween Dance Party in Canoga Park, CA FACC-GLA’s Halloween Dance Party in Canoga Park, CA The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce - Greater Los Angeles (FACC - GLA) invites members and guests to its Halloween Dance Party on Friday, October 27 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Best Western Canoga Park Hotel. Come in with your scariest attire as there will be special gifts for the best costume attire. Food & drinks will be included. Tickets are limited and entry will only be allowed for those who paid online or through check on or before Tuesday, October 24. Payment can be made through the website www.filamchambergla.org. Strictly NO payment will be accepted at the door.
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3rd annual Larry Itliong Day parade & festival in Los Angeles Join the Larry Itliong Day Committee (LIDC) in honoring the legacy of Filipino American Labor Leader Larry Itliong on Saturday, October 28. There will be a parade followed by a festival with cultural music, dance performances, food vendors, art exhibits, health screenings and various vendors. Parade starts at 9 a.m. with a light breakfast, opening ceremony and line-up at 8 a.m. at Unidad Park (1648 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026). The festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Columban Church at 125 Loma Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90026. There will be film screenings of “Delano Manongs” by Marissa Aroy at the church at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. For more information on sponsorships, parade registration, exhibitor opportunities, and volunteering, please email larryitliongdayLA@gmail.com. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. said during the 2017 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank the world economy is now recovering but global growth remains fragile. Philstar file photo
risks to global growth, especially over the medium term. Nevertheless, a dynamic emerging market like the Philippines, has reason to look to the future with cautious optimism,” he said. The country booked a positive growth for 74 straight quarters as the economy enjoys broadbased support from strong consumption and the resurgence of industry and manufacturing. The economy expanded 6.5 percent in the second quarter from 6.4 percent in the first quarter, bringing the first half growth to 6.4 percent in the first half. ■
BPO investment pledges picking up after Senate retains tax perks by PAOLO
New and existing businesses are invited to a Small Business Workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at PACE Business Development Center (11100 Valley Blvd. #116, El Monte, CA 91731). Course topics include credit reporting, banking service, organizational types, getting licenses and permits, financing and financial assistance to small businesses. The workshop will be in English. It is FREE but seats are limited so you must RSVP by Monday, Oct. 23. Breakfast and course materials will be provided by Cathay Bank. There are 3 ways to register: online at www.pacelabdc.org/calendar, email Daniel Ing at ding@pacela.org, or call (213) 989-3209. nesses. The workshop will be in English. It is FREE but seats are limited so you must RSVP by Monday, Oct. 23. Breakfast and course materials will be provided by Cathay Bank. There are 3 ways to register: online at www.pacelabdc. org/calendar, email Daniel Ing at ding@pacela.org, or call (213) 989-3209.
industry’s tax incentives in crafting its version of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) “to enable the country to continue attracting more BPO investments that would spur economic growth and create more jobs for Filipinos.” “Our policy should always be geared towards making doing business in the Philippines easier and easing unemployment in the country,” the senator said. He said IT-BPM industry has generators of country in recent u PAGE CJ4 been one of the biggest job
PHII presents Tribute 2017: Recognition ceremony and dinner dance The Philippine Heritage Institute International celebrates its 28th anniversary with its annual recognition ceremony and dinner dance on Saturday, October 28, 6:30 p.m. to midnight, at the Pasadena Hilton, 168 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101 -- 19th Tribute to Outstanding Filipino American Nurses and 11th President’s Award: ‘Profiles in Services, Pillars of Community.’ Cost is $65; attire, formal. PHII’s annual tribute is in answer to the White House Millennium Council Initiative from then Pres. Bill Clinton, who came with his wife Hillary to Los Angeles in January 1998. They created the Council in August 1997, with the theme ‘Honor the Past, Imagine the Future’ and traveled across the United States to promote its objectives -- an agenda with 21 ‘Ways to Commemorate the Millennium.’ “Mrs. Clinton gave a speech, stirring and inspirational,” said the late Mrs. Armada. In 1999, PHII became a partner to the White House Millennium Council selecting the ‘Millennium Recognition Awards’ to pay tribute to outstanding individuals whose contributions have enhanced the quality of life in the community. PHII seeks to improve the quality of life affecting Filipino American communities through research, education and recognition with the youth as its main focus. The foundation sponsors a youth congress annually with featured speakers. For more information, contact President Josie E. De Jesus (714) 272-0300; or Executive Director Anna A. Chickey, M.D. (562) 900-0379 (payments can be mailed to Dr. Chickey, daughter of Mrs. Armada, at 2032 Redfield St., Fullerton, CA 92833); or Email Lydia V. Solis at lvsolis@ aol.com.
Philippine Heritage Arts and Culture Celebration in Glendale, CA Join the Filipino-American Business Association of Glendale (FABAG), Glendale LibraryArts and Culture and Alexis Louise Quiza Foundation (ALQ) on Saturday, October 28 from 5:30 p.m. at the Glendale Central Library (222 E. Harvard St.) for the “Philippine Heritage Arts and Culture Celebration.” This event is OPEN TO ALL and is FREE admission. It will be a wonderful evening showcasing folk dances by Malaya Fil-Am Dance Arts, a Filipinana-inspired creation fashion show by designer Carl Andrada, and music and songs by Holy Family Filipino Chorale, Ethel and Clarita Alejo, Jennifer Kumiyama and the INTROVOYS... and more. Meet&greet and food sampling will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., after which an exciting program will start until 8:30 p.m. Bring your family and friends! The Office of the Philippine Consulate, Legislative Offices, City Officials, GCC Board, GUSD Board and other organizations were also invited. For further info, please contact Marlene Cagatao at (818) 450-9704 or Edith Fuentes at (818) 736-1911.
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
CJ
Business news
OCTOBER 20-26, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA SOME stories are cautionary tales. If we approach our own lives with a smidgen of humility, stories do teach and show us the way. I have learned that without humility, one cannot be taught anything of real value. Without humility, one would have to experience life’s hard lessons first hand. This is choosing to learn by paying the highest tuition when one can learn simply by listening and pondering the wisdom of those who love you and have your best interests at heart. I am revisiting two stories from 2010. These stories illustrate supremely bloated egos and an overblown sense of personal entitlement. The story of Amy Bishop, the Alabama ex-professor, who murdered her academic colleagues in cold blood during a departmental meeting, ended with a life sentence. Once-upon-a-time golf legend, Tiger Woods, after 7 years have passed, seems to be still reeling from the severe aftermath of a self-inflicted reversal of fortune involving sex, hookers and the tangled web one weaves when we deceive with impunity. It looks like in the postscript to Tiger’s Tale, big, bad karma will have the last say on how the remainder of his life story pans out as he continues to struggle with a bad back and a losing streak. On February 2010, Amy Bishop, a Harvard-trained neuroscientist killed 3 of her colleagues with a 9 mm gun in cold blood and wounded three others, in a faculty meeting in the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). Bishop’s rampage may have been motivated by the fact that she was denied tenure and will have to look for work elsewhere by the end of the spring semester of that year. She is married with 4 kids and appears to be the sole family provider. With her action, she decimated half the Biology Department and two of the wounded, were hit in the head. She went target shooting at the range prior to this. And who has not heard of Tiger Woods’ blazing fall from grace? Amy Bishop felt entitled. Tiger Woods himself admitted, “I felt that I had worked hard my entire
EMPLOYMENT
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Tales of entitlement BPO investment pledges picking...
“...I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled...” — Tiger Woods
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years and he vowed to find ways to reduce unemployment in the country. The IT-Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) earlier information technologybusiness process management investment pledges in the coun(Part 1 of 2) try are now showing “signs of relife and deserved to enjoy all the ing to their street because her covery” because of the Senate’s temptations around me. I felt I children were lactose intolerant. move. was entitled…” Nor did she want her children to The IBPAP said new investAmy Bishop, who was per- play with her neighborhood kids. ceived as brilliant inventor and Students at the UAH petitioned scientist but a social oddball that she be removed from the strongly, obsessively felt entitled classroom since she taught by to be given tenure at UAH. She reading from the textbook, didn’t PAGE CJ1 t had a secret, troubled past be- make eye contact and was just area of work; low levels of supginning with the death of her plain ineffective in a classroom port for employees; inflexible own 18 year old brother whom setting. There are other troubling working hours; and unclear tasks she shot in the heart 24 years ago incidents in her past life, such as, or organizational objectives. with a shotgun, a case that was when she punched a woman at “Risk may be increased in ruled accidental in Braintree, the local IHOP all because of a situations where there is a lack Massachusetts. child booster seat while ranting of team cohesion or social supWell past the statute of limita- profanities, raving and scream- port,” WHO added. tion, that case was never logged ing, “I am Dr. Amy Bishop.” It estimated that globally, in the national database because In another suspicious inci- more than 300 million people she was never charged in that dent, she and her husband were suffer from depression, the incident. In hindsight police offi- among those investigated but leading cause of disability, while cials now believe there was prob- never charged in the unresolved more than 260 million are livable cause to charge her for what mail bombing case of Professor ing with anxiety disorders, with she did after the incident when Paul Rosenberg of Harvard. It many living with both. she held a man at gunpoint in appears the professor was giving Noting that depression and a nearby dealership demanding her a negative review of her post- anxiety disorders cost the global a get-away car and holding offi- doctoral work. economy $1 trillion each year in cers in a standoff. There are talks No one could have predicted lost productivity, the WHO urged that because her mother, who that Amy Bishop’s very vocal member states to adopt policies had some clout, intervened and ranting and internal raging over promoting a healthy workplace, that there were some slip-ups something she felt entitled to where workers and managers in the chain of command, Bish- would result in tragedy. Her ap- actively contribute to the workop was effectively exonerated peal for tenure was denied that ing environment by promoting and nothing more was heard of October. Sadly, one of her vic- and protecting the health, safety this case until now. This impor- tims, the Biology Department and well-being of all employees. tant piece of information could head, Dr. Gopi Podila, a well“Employers and managers have prevented the university liked academic who immigrated who put in place workplace inifrom hiring her in the first place. from India, and who supported Her husband, who appears de- her appeal for tenure and even lusional as she is, paints a pleas- dismissed the students’ petition ant picture of her as a mother against her, was the first perand wife, in stark contrast from son, Amy Bishop shot dead. The PAGE CJ1 t those who felt she was aloof and other 2 are Dr. Maria Ragland capital transfers between housearrogant in her perceived supe- Davis and Dr. Adriel Johnson, all holds. It measures cash and nonriority. She herself said she was in their early fifties and by all ac- cash items that flow through both arrogant because she is superior. counts, great human beings. She formal or via electronic wire and She frequently mentioned Har- fired repeatedly at her friend, Dr. informal channels such as money vard in class and that she was a Debra Moriarity despite her pleas or goods carried across borders. On the other hand, the cencousin of the author John Irving for mercy but the gun jammed who wrote “The Cider House and her friend lived to tell the tral bank said cash remittances Rules” and “The World Accord- gruesome details of the carnage. coursed through banks grew 7.8 ing to Garp.” On April 2011, the Alabama percent to $2.5 billion in August Former neighbors in Mas- Madison County District Attor- from $2.32 billion in the same sachusetts sighed in relief and ney Robert Broussard said dur- month last year. This was also the fastest in five held a pizza party when her ing a court proceeding that he family moved to Alabama. She would seek the death penalty for months or since March when it grew 11.8 percent and the and her husband had called the Amy Bishop. highest since cash remittances cops on their neighbors in ex(Conclusion next week…) reached a monthly record of cess of a dozen times over per*** ceived slights to the point that Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is $2.61 billion last March. According to the central bank, the cops felt they could not do SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. enough for them. She prevented To send comments, e-mail monette. primary contributors to the rise the ice cream truck from com- m a g l a y a @ a s i a n j o u r n a l i n c . c o m in cash remittances last August
ment commitments slowed down because of various uncertainties. Some investors are delaying decisions to invest in the Philippines or deciding to invest elsewhere amidst earlier plans to alter the current tax regime for investors. The group thanked the Senate for its continuing support of the IT-BPM industry “especially in view of the headwinds and challenges that the industry is
currently dealing with,” IBPAP president Rey Untal earlier said. In 2016, the IT-BPM industry provided direct employment to some 1.15 million Filipinos, and generated $23 billion in revenue. The Department of Labor and Employment recently reported employment opportunities in the industry remains at the leading spot in the top job vacancies available at the PhilJobNet. n
WHO warns on stressful work... tiatives to promote mental health support employees who have mental disorders, see gains not only in the health of their employees but also in their productivity at work,” WHO said. Other interventions and good practices that protect and promote mental health in the workplace are the implementation of health and safety policies and practices, including identification of distress, harmful use of psychoactive substances and illness and providing resources to manage them; informing staff that support is available; involving employees in decision-making, conveying a feeling of control and participation; organizational practices that support a healthy work-life balance; programs for career development of employees; and recognizing and rewarding the contribution of employees. “Employers need to ensure that individuals feel supported and are able to ask for support in
continuing with or returning to work and are provided with the necessary resources to do their job,” it added. Mental health in the workplace is the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day, which is observed every October 10 to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of better mental health. Early this week, the House of Representatives approved on second reading a proposal seeking to establish a national mental health policy to enhance the delivery of mental health services in the country. House Bill No. 6452 or the “Comprehensive Mental Health Act of 2017” seeks to integrate mental health care in the general health delivery system, especially the programs of the Department of Health and the Department of the Interior and Local Government for mentally disabled persons. (Manilatimes. net) n
Remittances rise to $20.72B in a...
SERVICES
were the United Arab Emirates, the U.S., Singapore and Qatar. Cash remittances went up 5.4 percent to $18.59 billion from January to August compared to $17.64 billion in the same period last year. Data showed the bulk, or 82.5 percent, of the cash remittances in the first eight months came from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, Japan, the United Kingdom, Qatar, Kuwait, Germany, and Hong Kong. The BSP has pegged the projected growth in personal and cash remittances at four percent this year. Remittances from about 12 million Filipinos living and working abroad contribute about 10 percent of the gross domestic
SERVICES
product (GDP). Remittances together with business process outsourcing (BPO) and tourism receipts serve as a major source of foreign exchange buffer that help shield the Philippines from external shocks. “This is good for the current account. As imports continue to grow but at slower pace and exports rebound, resilient remittances can mitigate the emergent current account shortfall and also provide support to the peso,” Guinigundo said. The Philippines is seen posting its first current account deficit in 15 years at $600 million or 0.2 percent of GDP instead of a surplus of $800 million or 0.6 percent of GDP due to strong import growth. n
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10th annual award ceremony honors “Housing Heroes” San Mateo County Health System recognizes individuals who help people with mental health and substance use conditions
SAN MATEO, Calif. – Finding affordable housing in San Mateo County is more challenging than ever, especially for people who are low-income, or have mental health and/or substance use challenges. A recent report by the Mental Health & Substance Abuse Recovery Commission found the most serious issue facing people with mental health and substance use challenges and family members in San Mateo County is housing instability. While one in four people have a mental health condition, less than half get the help they need. One way to help is to provide stable, affordable housing so people have the opportunity to recover and maintain wellbeing. On Wednesday, Oct. 18, San Mateo County leadership and Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, a division of the San Mateo County Health System, honored individuals who have helped people with mental health and substance use conditions find or stay in housing so they can recover and maintain good health. By promoting health and security, this helps not only the individual but also their family, friends and our entire San Mateo County community. “In the 10 years we’ve honored Housing He-
roes in our community, people are facing more challenges than ever in finding safe and affordable housing,” said David A. Young, PhD, MPH, Director of San Mateo County Health System’s Behavioral Health and Recovery Services. “Housing is an essential component in the recovery process and maintaining good health. However, people with mental health and substance use conditions are profoundly represented in the housing crisis. The work of our Housing Heroes is more important than ever.” The 2017 San Mateo County Change Agent Housing Committee awarded the following recipients as this year’s Housing Heroes: • Jo Ellen Chu, HealthRIGHT 360 • Lisa Collins, Society of St. Vincent de Paul • Julia Parmer, Safe Harbor and HealthRIGHT 360 • Craig and Clarissa Rothe, Prodesse Property Management • Perrin and Minerva Salariosa, Portobello Care Home The awards ceremony was held on Wednesday, October 18 at the Redwood Shores Library, Community Room, 399 Marine Parkway, in Redwood City. ■
Park District advisory: residents should avoid or severely limit outdoor activity
ON Wednesday, October 11 the Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued a Health Advisory and Spare the Air Alert for the Bay Area related to smoke from the wildfires in the North Bay. The Health Advisory and Spare the Air Alert has been extended through the weekend. According to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District
“Very unhealthy air quality from the wildfires in the North Bay is causing unprecedented levels of air pollution throughout the Bay Area.” The East Bay Regional Park District is recommending residents avoid or severely limit outdoor activity this weekend. Refunds are being offered for all scheduled events and gather-
ings. Regional parks will remain open this weekend. Air quality will be monitored closely. Information about park operations and closures can be found at www.ebparks.org. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s Health Advisory can be found at www. baaqmd.gov. ■
Singing champion Congratulations to Zenna Ira for emerging as the Champion in the St. Andrew Catholic Church Sensational Singers’ Competition Child Star Category last September 29, 2017. She rendered the Tagalog song “May Bukas Pa” originally sung by Filipino artist Rico J. Puno. Zenna also performed at the ibo Music School “Benefit Concert for Disaster Relief” last September 30, 2017 where she proudly sang her winning piece “May Bukas Pa”.
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 20-26, 2017
CJ5
Why banks love... PAGE CJ2 t
• Aligning the family’s relationship with the business by way of meritocracy • Defining the family member’s rights and responsibilities • Ownership alignment covering the next gen leaders are welldocumented
• Effective plan for ownership including key family leadership role and succession • A Communication platform to minimize conflict and misunderstanding for active and nonactive owners • The creation of Family Council to manage Family and per-
sonal issues.
*** Prof. Soriano is a National Agora Awardee for Marketing Excellence, an ASEAN Family Business Advisor, Book Author and Executive Director of ASEAN-based Consulting group, W+B Strategic Advisory. He has close to three decades of real estate experience and is currently the Program Director for Real Estate at the Ateneo Graduate School of Business.
Corporate Governance: Outstanding Performance, Higher Profits, Expanded Market Reach and the like FAILS to protect a company which has put good governance & ethics at the back burner. Only the culture of strict adherence to good compliance can keep a company ahead on sustainable basis, bring in larger profits. Corporates should act like honey bee which suck the nectar of the flower without effecting its fragrance and produce honey for the well –being of society.
Corporate Governance
Criminal convictions and immigration... Outstanding Performance, Higher Profits, Expanded Market Reach and the like FAILS to protect a company which has put good governance & ethics at the back burner.
PAGE CJ2 t
Negative Consequences of or prior to pleading to anything removable aliens from potential Criminal Conviction. The Record in any court, in order to explore Only the culture of strict to gooddetails compliance can keep company onlegal an individutheir aoptions and ahead possible enforcement. Pursuant to adherence the of Conviction al’s criminal history. More imporramifi cations that they might be Kelly Memorandum February sustainable basis,ofbring in larger profits. 20, 2017, noncitizens are remov- tantly, the relief(s) available to an facing. *** able if they – (i) have been con- individual facing deportation will depend largely on that individuvicted of any criminal offense; Atty. of Lilli the Berbano Baculi without is an associate Corporates should act like honey bee which suck the nectar flower (ii) have been charged with any al’s record of conviction. Thus, attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A effectingoffense its fragrance andnot produce the well –being society. Legal Corporation (CTV) - a even honey “just a for misdemeanor” can ofProfessional criminal that has been resolved; (iii) have engaged make a non-citizen deportable, full service law firm with offices in San in fraud or willful misrepresen- even if that person is a long-time Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and tation in connection with any green card holder and has lived Philippines. The information presented in official matter before a govern- in the United States for 20 years. this article is for general information only mental agency; (iv) have abused Therefore, it is very important to and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal any program related to receipt of understand that before taking a advice nor the formation of an attorneyplea consult with a deporta- client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an public benefits; (v) are subject to By: Prof.deal, Enrique Soriano – 2017/10/09 in-person or phone consultation to discuss a final order of removal but have tion defense attorney. your particular situation and/or how their No two cases are exactly the not complied with their legal obligation to depart the U.S.; (vi) in same. Consult with an experi- services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; the judgment of an immigration enced and competent immigra- (415) 495-8088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ ctvattys.com. For general SAN Governance is everywhere. I amand slated to deliver a talkinformation related visit immediately, offi cer, FRANCISCO, otherwise pose CA. a risk to tion attorney www.chuatinsayvega.com. more importantly prior to fi ling public safety or and national secuto Ownership Succession today to the students, faculty members (Advertising and business Supplement) any applications with the USCIS, rity.
Soriano: Why Banks Love Governance
owners at the Community College of San Francisco Ocean Campus (CCSF).
St. Luke’s Medical Center reaches out to Northern California Fil-Ams
This will be another interesting exchange of ideas with business owners and the academia similar to the one I did exactly a year ago when the University of San
by Joseph
peralta AJ Press
St. Luke’s Medical Center officials led by its President & CEO, Dr. Edgardo Cortez, held a meeting with leaders and members of the Filipino American community last October 6 at the Westin St. Francis Hotel’s Georgian Room in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Cortez, along with Jo Aguilar (SVP and Head of Marketing Group & Industry Relations) and Tristan Ramos (AVP, International Business Relations), revealed to FilAms how St. Luke’s Medical Center in Global City (Taguig) and Quezon City are more than capable of servicing the many medical needs of its patients with its well-trained staff, a host of state-of-the-art medical equipment, as well as internationally-ranked and industry-leading results in surgical procedures, transplantation, infertility, and treatment of diseases like cancer, heart ailments, and vision/dental problems. St. Luke’s Medical Center is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network and has been accredited by international bodies like the Join Commission International (JCI), Temos (Trust. Effective Medicine. Optimized Services.), The Diplomatic Council of Europe, American College of Radiology (ACR), American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), Investors in People (Gold Certification) and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) for its commitment to excellence and determination to provide patients with the utmost in healthcare. Prior to Dr. Cortez’s brief pre-
sentation on the many achievements of St. Luke’s Medical Center as well as the center’s mission and vision of, videos were shown of St. Luke’s two facilities in Global City and Quezon City, as well as The Concierge at St. Luke’s. It was also announced at the meeting that a third St. Luke’s Medical Center will soon open in Davao. The Concierge at St. Luke’s, the first hospital-based medical concierge in the Philippines, showed the before, during and after-care process by which St. Luke’s Medical Center and its staff extend to patients, including many who come from overseas to take advantage of world-class healthcare and very reasonable costs. A comparative costing provided by St. Luke’s on sample procedures like valve replacement, hip replacement, knee replacement and rhinoplasty showed savings from 63% to 82% when ranged against costs in the U.S. for the same type of procedures. To make a clear picture for the patient, St. Luke’s can provide a Medical Cost Estimate (MCE) so that the patient can fully prepare for his/her medical care and thus, have a worry-free hospital experience and a clear understanding of what he/she can expect to pay. The estimate of hospital bills/ professional fees are based on the real cost of the most recent similar cases. Add to this, solid results and success rates in transcatheter aortic valce replacements (98%), coronary artery bypass graft surgery (98%), open-heart surgery (99%), in-vitro fertilization clini-
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cal pregnancy (47%, as opposed to world average of 31%), and survival rate of 98.9% for coronary angioplasty and stenting, make St. Luke’s Medical Centers a viable option for Filipino Americans and patients worldwide when it comes to healthcare. The outreach of St. Luke’s Medical Center to global Filipinos, starting with its visits to Los Angeles and San Francisco, is in line with the medical tourism thrust of the government of the Philippines. While ranked in the top 10 for international medical tourism, Dr. Cortez says that they
are aiming for the top position and he is confident that they will be able to achieve this, what with the Center’s steadily growing reputation and partnerships with healthcare institutions in Europe, North America, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. “We have been named the best hospital for medical tourism, and our facilities are the perfect setting for healing and recovery,” he said. More information on St. Luke’s Medical Center, its services and 8]k\i k_\ Yi`\Ôe^1 ]ifd c\]k Af 8^l`cXi# Jfc ?X]Xc`X# ;i% <[^Xi[f :fik\q# DXi`]\ J\m`ccX Xe[ ;i% D\c`jjX 9\e[\i f] L:J=% The Concierge is available at www.stlukes.com.ph.
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CJ
OCTOBER 20-26, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Friday, October 20, 2017
SF2
cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - October 20, 2017
Fil-Am footwear pioneer Rich ‘One’ Cofinco:
KEEPING THE VISION by RAE
ANN VARONA /AJPress
P
URSUING the arts is risky business, but Filipino-American artist, designer, and all-around creative, Rich “One” Cofinco made it his business and has been holding it down for over ten years. At the Skyline Room at the Cerritos Library in Cerritos, California where Cofinco spent much of his younger years, fans came to listen to his story. The Asian Journal caught up with him sometime after. From his beginnings as a respected street artist, to building a name in the footwear industry, Cofinco has proven to be an unstoppable, freewheeling creative. Already famous for his street art and being the founder of graffiti crew No Art Remains After (NASA) — which to this day remains legendary among street art followers — Cofinco found himself landing commercial jobs in the action sports industry due to his dynamic art style. It was during his early days working at skate and street style company Vision Street Wear that Cofinco was challenged to transfer his talents onto products like t-shirts and skateboards, and eventually onto snowboard boots and skate shoes. Cofinco was immediately hooked and soon his new passion brought him to the iconic skate shoe company Vans, where he further developed a knack for shoe designing. This then lead to his first brand 4ce Footwear and his first taste of industry success. The company blew up between 2000 and 2001, and the Vans’ COO at the time eventually joined the team full time. Unfortunately, 4ce Footwear later found out that person had been embezzling money from Vans to invest in their brand. Already feeling stuck and wanting to create different products, Cofinco took the opportunity to pursue something new, and left. Creative Recreation With experience, a young entrepreneur spirit, and a clean slate, Cofinco decided again to disrupt the footwear industry. In 2002, he and longtime friend Robert Nand, founded Creative Recreation,
Photos courtesy of Rich “One” Cofinco
a company with plans of merging the gap between casual and formal footwear. “We wanted to create something you could wear to work, then to the bar, and then to your workout,” Cofinco shared with the audience in the Skyline Room. The company’s shoes quickly gained attention from celebrities including Justin Timberlake, Alec Baldwin, Robert Downey Jr., and Ryan Seacrest, among many others, and were featured in magazines like GQ, Marie Claire, Men’s Health, and Men’s Vogue. Musician, entrepreneur, and now clothing and shoe designer Kanye West, was among the first to be spotted in Creative Recreations. Among the many of West’s greatest sneaker moments was the brand’s staple shoe, the Cesario, which had all the makings of a basketball shoe. Dressed with a unique and simple toe strap over the forefoot, it became a statement piece easily adaptable to different environments. Creative Recreation’s winged logo soon became established, with people heading to a wide range of stores like Barneys New York, Nordstrom, and Journeys for pairs of their own. The success of the company wasn’t something Cofinco really expected. He said, “Even to this day, I look back and can’t believe something like that happened.” Cofinco’s vision for Creative Recreation had been coming to fruition, and after the company’s five-year mark, he was finally starting to realize just how game changing it was becoming. “That’s when I noticed what what we were doing was finally getting accepted as a legitimate category that nobody had done before,” Cofinco told the Asian Journal. But as the company grew, Cofinco found it harder and harder to retain its original vision as the push for volume and money became precedence. In 2012, Cofinco decided to leave Creative Recreation to pursue other artistic endeavors. The company sold two years later for $11 million to Rocky Brands, a leading footwear company that started off specializing in Western, hiking, and working boots. But in a quick turn of events, Creative Recreation asked Cofinco to come back and become the company’s creative director to help reignite its spark. Knowing the company’s original DNA, Cofinco accepted and focused on a Creative Re-Creation campaign with plans to push for newness and reinventing the brand from its historic roots. With an emphasis on the “re,” it was all about recreating,
re-innovating, restyling, and re-doing everything while still staying true to the brand’s original vision. New technology like Vibram outsoles were added, as were new styles like the Scopo crosstrainer, the Nittie court shoe, and brand’s first chukka boot, the Dragna. In a story by Footwear News, the company’s CEO David Sharp at the time expressed growth as a result of the campaign, stating that there was “an energy there that wasn’t there before.” But again, visions began to clash as the company found his ideas a bit too advanced. Cofinco decided it was best to leave for good. As seen in the future As expected, Cofinco was in no way finished with the industry. In 2014, Cofinco and business partner Nate “Res” Harvey created their current company, As Seen in the Future, or ASIF. “Your blueprint is your sole — no pun intended — of your shoe,” said Cofinco to a laughing audience. As a big part of Cofinco’s artistic “sole/soul” revolves around utility, it is of course evident in his new brand. The difference lies in when the products would be useful. With ASIF, Cofinco still wanted to create utilitarian products, but ones that would still serve its wearers well way into the future. “The irony is that we don’t know what the future has in store for us, but we can prepare ourselves for future survival,” said Cofinco. “The future is an open book for anyone to interpret. It can be futuristic or apocalyptic, good or bad, technologically advanced or back to basics. But if we’re prepared, it won’t matter what the future has in store for us.” The brand’s futuristic and sleek aesthetics have already caught attention of “sneakerheads,” posting on blogs and other social media of their ASIF come ups — a favorite being the brand’s IO. While the shoes can only be purchased online, followers were able to check them out at a pop up at WCSP on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. Another pop up at Do Not Enter on the same street will happen in October. As the event came to a close, many were eager to have Cofinco answer some questions. One question that stood out was from a childhood friend who came all the way from Victoria, B.C., Canada. After reminiscing on days they bonded over hip hop and cars, he asked Cofinco the question many artists get — “Who was your biggest influence?” Cofinco’s response was simple. “Me.” “You have to believe in yourself at the end of the day,” explained Cofinco. “If anyone is a true believer of what you do and has your back, it’s yourself. Everyone else around here will do that for you as well, but you have to believe in yourself.”
How Pilita Corrales manages ‘I am Vin Abrenica, I exist’ to still sing high notes at 78 by BOY
ABUNDA Philstar.com
by ALLAN
POLICARPIO
Inquirer.net
RETIREMENT? The word has never crossed Pilita Corrales’ mind in the six decades she has so far spent in the entertainment biz. “Maybe 10 years from
now—how about that?” she told reporters at a recent press conference for her coming concert, “An Evening with Pilita,” whose title is a nod to the popular musical TV show she topbilled from 1965 to 1972. “As long as there are people who want to listen to me, and as long as the Lord gives me good health, I will continue.” Pilita, dubbed Asia’s Queen of Song, remains active in the live-music scene—as she so prefers. She still goes on concert tours
abroad. And every so often, she makes guest appearances on TV shows, like the GMA 7 sitcom “Hay, Bahay!” Still, not once did performing feel like a chore for Pilita. “The passion has to be there, always. Because otherwise, you won’t be able to deliver as you should,” she pointed out. “In my case, I’d love to continue singing, so I need to work hard, and learn and memorize songs.” What excites her most about singing these days is the fact that she’s now able to pull off her old songs in their original key—thanks to her decision to
quit smoking. “I used to smoke, but I stopped seven years ago because of a severe vertigo attack that forced me to lie down without moving for seven days. The thought of having another episode deterred me from smoking again,” she related. “Yes, smoking makes your voice kind of sexy, but I’d rather have my old key back.” “An Evening with Pilita,” is the casino-resort’s third installment of its “icons series.” It’ll pay tribute to Pilita’s legacy, and look back at her journey, starting from her rise to fame in Melbourne, Australia in the ’50s. Special guests include Angie dela Cruz and Nikki Ross of the Wing Duo, her children Jackie Lou Blanco and Monching Gutierrez, and granddaughter Janine Gutierrez. “My first albums were recorded there, and I will definitely sing songs from those. There will be a lot of tidbits about my career in Melbourne,” said the 78-yearold singer. “I was very popular over there because I had hits, and could sing in different languages—Tagalog, English, Spanish, Cebuano,” she recalled. “I became a regular in the show, ‘In Melbourne Tonight.’ Gowns were expensive back then. But since my mom created what I wore, I got to put on a new gown three times a week, which the fans always looked forward to.” “There’s even a street named after me there!” added the seasoned artist, who’s famous for her rendition of the ballad “Kapantay Ay Langit,” and the way she bends her body backwards as she reaches for a high note.
Pilita, dubbed Asia’s Queen of Song, remains active in the live-music scene—as she so prefers. She still goes on concert tours abroad. And every so often, she makes guest appearances on TV shows, like the GMA 7 sitcom “Hay, Bahay!”
“I HAVE a name. My name is Vin and I exist.” Those were the words of Vin Abrenica spoken with conviction when he guested in “Tonight with Boy Abunda” last week. His longing to have an identity of his own, and not just to be known as the brother of Aljur Abrenica, was strongly felt by those who had seen the episode. Vin admitted that it has not been easy being compared to Aljur all throughout his life, especially now that they are both in showbiz. “It’s normal to me, since I was young or probably, since I was born. We were being compared every day in school (by) teachers, and (by) our uncles and aunts.” Oftentimes, he would hear comments like, “He’s kinder than you are. You’re not listening as much as your brother.” Even other people, Vin shared, that they always find his brother more charming. He recalled how Aljur was able to sell 10 boxes of pizza in no time. “When we were kids, we used to sell Abrenica Pizza in the market. We were both given 10 boxes of pizza, I was six or seven years old then. So by 5 a.m., we were going around the market to sell and people would say to him ang cute, cute naman ng batang ito kaya yung sa kanya ubos lahat and I still had 10. What’s good, he would help offer and sell my pizza.” The comparison got even worse when Vin joined showbiz years later with Aljur then a household name. “It’s one thing if you’re being compared by the family and it’s another thing when all the articles coming out are about you and your brother, iba ’pag buong mundo na through the Internet,” said Vin, who, by the way, is in the cast of the ABS-CBN afternoon series Wildflower with Maja Salvador in the title role. Vin said he experienced having sleepless nights when one item described his Kuya Aljur as
Vin Abrenica
“magsasaka”(farmer). It puzzled him why until he found out that the magsasaka tag meant bad to him “because while my kuya is magsasaka daw sa tabi ko at ako naman ang kalabaw. Hindi talaga ako nakatulog noon.” He knew it was harsh. But Vin never gave up. He studied hard and excelled academically. “I wanna prove something because since I was young, you know (there’s comparison). I have a name. My name is Vin and I exist.” However, Vin stressed that all is well between him and Aljur even while reports came out that the two were not on speaking terms after the former left their house. “At first I thought pinapaalis n’ya ’ko. He told me that I’ve slowed down. Every step ko guided n’ya and I didn’t experience any fall, which is bad. I’m not angry and I just went. It’s not true that we’re not on speaking terms.” Aljur has always been an inspiration with Vin saying, “I wouldn’t have the guts to be in acting if not for him.” Meanwhile, Vin revealed more of himself in Fast Talk. Read on. Music or movies? “Music.” Lakad? Takbo? “Takbo.”
ABC-CBN photo
Canton o bihon? “Canton.” Lily Cruz or Ivy Aguas? “Lily.” The boat is sinking, who are you going to save first, Joseph Marco or RK Bagatsing (his costars in Wildflower)? “I’ll drown myself and see the boat sinks hahaha.” In massage, which do you prefer — soft, moderate or hard? “Very, very hard.” Your favorite street game. “Tumbang preso.” Kung pulutan ka, ano ka? “Sisig.” Sexiest woman you’ve worked with. “Maja.” What is your weakness? “My family.” Ano ang mas masakit — mahiwalayan o makipaghiwalay? “Mahiwalayan. Hindi pa ako nakipaghiwalay.” Sino ang mas maganda ang katawan — ikaw o si AJ? “Ako, hahahaha.” Ilang beses ka na nabasted? “Wala pa.” What’s the hardest part of your body? “My head.” What’s the toughest, saying yes or saying no? “Saying no.” Describe Vin in one word. “Intense.”
Pala Casino Spa & Resort breaks ground on $170-million expansion and renovation
features SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – October 20, 2017
400 Construction jobs to be created
PAlA, cA – Officials of Pala casino spa & Resort today held a groundbreaking ceremony to honor the commencement of the resort’s $170 million expansion and renovation project. Pala Band of Mission indians chairman Robert smith provided the keynote address at the groundbreaking ceremony, which took place at the outdoor resort pool area. to officially break ground, smith drove an excavator through a 15’x 17’ brick kiosk building (photos attached). the groundbreaking was followed by food and refreshments indoors at Pala’s cAVE lounge. “Our ability to exponentially expand and refresh Pala casino spa & Resort is a true testament to, not only the growth of Pala, but also to the thriving economy and the continued strength of the gaming industry in california,” smith said. “this is a significant milestone for our tribe and we look forward to continuing to exceed the expectations of our loyal patrons.” the renovation and expansion will include the addition of a new 348-room hotel tower the resort’s existing hotel tower
What can we learn from Harvey Weinstein’s victims San FranciSco By Monet
also will be completely remodeled. When complete, Pala will boast 853 rooms including 104 unique suites and 749 deluxe rooms with dramatic views of the resort’s multi-pool and entertain-
ment complex, event lawn and the scenic Palomar Mountain Range. to accommodate more hotel guests, the hotel parking structure will be expanded by adding 420 additional spaces.
Lu
POlitics and show business seem like two sides of the same coin. Both filled with scandals, power struggle, hypocrisy, lies, deception and sex offenders. While there’s a lot to gain from both of these sectors, there is, sadly, also a lot of disgrace that is just too disturbing for our sanity. i’ve been in the entertainment industry for as long as i can remember and yet it still shakes me to the core whenever i hear horror stories resulting from the series of malady i have just mentioned. i wasn’t surprised when i learned about the the conversion of the existing sexual harassment and assault resort pool into a multi-pool and grievances that women (both entertainment resort complex will actresses and employees alike) offer guests the opportunity to have been throwing at Harvey enjoy four pools, two whirlpools, a Weinstein, who by the way, is new poolside bar, a new poolside the co-founder of the producrestaurant and various outdoor tion-and-distribution companies lounge spaces complete with Miramax and the Weinstein fireplaces for evening cocktails. Pala’s gaming area also will be expanded by 12,000 square feet. Within that expanded casino space, 500 new slot machines, several new table games and a new casino bar and lounge will be introduced. the interior of the entire 100,000-square-foot casino will be remodeled. Pala’s food promenade will be converted into Continued on Page SF4
Harvey Weinstein
company, that helped to reinvent the model for independent films, with movies such as “sex, lies, and Videotape,” “the English Patient,” “Pulp Fiction,” “the crying Game,” “shakespeare in love,” and “the King’s speech.” i was not surprised because i’ve heard stories and witnesses talk about how dirty show business can be. What shocks me is why we haven’t done anything about it for years. it was reported that for more than twenty years, Weinstein has been trailed by rumors of sexual harassment and assault. in fact, they say, it has been an Continued on Page SF5
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celebrityworld
The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - October 20, 2017
celebrity world By Ferdie Villar THE one and only Superstar nora Aunor recently marked her 50th year in philippine showbiz. Of course, her loyal noranians made sure that they would celebrate this milestone of their beloved idol. la Aunor’s fans organized a special gathering, attended by her friends, colleagues and family. Among those who attended are veteran movie producer Mother lily Monteverde, actress Maricel Soriano, and nora’s children ian de leon and Matet de leon. “Sila ang nagpagod dito at maraming, maraming salat sa lahat ng organizers — sila ang nagpagod — at sa lahat ng mga fans,” nora happily said. nora started her career as a singer after winning an amateur singing contest. She had her film debut in 1967 with “All
Over the World,” and took in acting roles in youth-oriented films. She later transformed herself into a serious actress, starring in critically-acclaimed films such as “Tatlong taong walang Diyos” (1976), “Himala” (1982), “Bona” (1980), “The Flor Contemplacion Story” (1995) and “Thy Womb” (2012); which gave her international and local awards and nominations. Ate Guy, as she is most fondly called, received 17 FAMAS award nominations and was elevated to the Hall of Fame after winning five Best Actress awards. She is also the most nominated actress of Gawad Urian Awards. Congratulations to nora for her golden year in showbiz. More power and films for la Aunor!
San Jose fashionable lady Susan Pacifico is shown in photo with Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales during the singer’s solo concert held last weekend at Hilton Hotel in Burlingame.
Superstar Nora Aunor celebrates 50 years in showbiz
The one and only Superstar Nora Aunor (center) recently marked her 50th year in Philippine showbiz with a celebration organized by her loyal fans. Among those who came to celebrate with La Aunor were daughter Matet de Leon, Regal films matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde and actress Maricel Soriano. (Photo from Instagram @misismatet)
Actress Anne Curtis came into fellow “It’s Showtime” co-host Nadine Lustre’s defense after a netizen bashed the latter on Twitter. Dorie Cachuela-Paniza, president of the FilipinoAmerican Democratic Club of San Mateo County, is shown with the Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales during her solo concert held last Sunday, October 15, at the Hilton Hotel in Burlingame.
*** Anne Curtis has taken on the role of nadine lustre’s defender, after a netizen criticized the latter for having The Filipino Band Musician’s Hall of Fame Foundation (FILHOFF) will celebrate its 4th anniversary with a fun despite the recent passing tribute to immortal songs to be held on Friday, November 3, at 6 p.m. Shown in photo are the Board of Directors of FILHOFF (L-R, seated) Agnes Torres, Luz Sumagang, (standing) Frank Sityar, Chito Desuadido, and of her brother. To add insult Pat Ancheta. to the injury, the said netizen
Dave Bautista stars in ‘Blade Runner 2049’ by Mark
Xavier Bautista
Filipino-American Hollywood star and former WWE champion Dave Bautista Photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures
is the executive producer. Bill Carraro served as executive producer and unit production manager. The film which stars Ryan Gosling (“la la land”) and Harrison Ford (“Star Wars”) also includes an international cast, among them Ana de Armas (“War Dogs”), Sylvia Hoeks (“Renegades”), Robin Wright (“Wonder Woman”), Mackenzie Davis (“The Martian”), Carla Juri(“Brimstone”), and lennie James (“The Walking Dead”), with Dave Bautista (the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films) and Oscar winner Jared leto (“Dallas Buyers Club”). Director Denis Villeneuve was asked by the
press what interested him in taking this film and he replied, “The idea that as human beings we are reprogrammed with our genetic background and education and how we can free from that. Also to bring back that beautiful career from the first movie and explore it with my own sensibility.” For Fil-Am actor Batista, it is all about the pride of being a part of a great film. “When i first got the role, i didn’t realize how important the character was to the plot of the film. i’m proud to be part of the film,” he said. Blade Runner opened in theaters on October 6, 2017.
Pala Casino Spa & Resort Breaks Ground... From Page SF3 a restaurant complex offering a wide variety of food options in a variety of settings. The restaurants will include casual café dining, Asian dining, a premium sushi restaurant and a sports bar restaurant offering live entertainment and dancing every Friday and Saturday night. The new restaurants will complement pala’s signature Choices the Buffet, the elegant Oak Room Steakhouse, the eclectic underground wine cave with its new California-casual restaurant, Bar-Meets-Grill, which will open in January 2018. During the ceremony, Bill Bembenek, pala’s Chief Executive Officer, California State Assemblymember lorena GonzalezFletcher, Assemblymember Randy Voepel and Assemblymember Marie Waldron also provided remarks.
“i am proud to have played even a bit part in this important event for the pala Band of Mission indians, the State of California, and the local economy by authoring Assembly Bill 629 to ratify the tribal gaming compact that made today’s groundbreaking a reality,” said Assemblymember Gonzalez-Fletcher. “This legislation was overwhelmingly supported by representatives from around California because of pala’s commitment to the economic self-sufficiency of its people and to the surrounding community.” When completed, pala’s 853 deluxe hotel rooms and suites will be beautifully appointed with stone countertops throughout, luxurious linens, Keurig coffee makers, free, in-room Wi-Fi and 50-inch, high-definition televisions. new palatial presidential
it is they are feeling. So back off.” JaDine fans (loyal followers of the loveteam of James Reid and nadine) thanked Anne for standing up against the basher. nadine’s younger brother passed away a few weeks ago and was reported as suicide. Reports said that he was suffering from depression.
Janine Gutierrez evolves as an actress by ricky Lo Philstar.com
AJPress
FilipinO-American Hollywood star and former WWE champion Dave Bautista co-stars in the muchanticipated movie “Blade Runner 2049”, a sequel from the 1982 hit movie “Blade Runner” that was directed by Ridley Scott and starred by Harrison Ford. Three decades after the events of the first film, a new blade runner, lApD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), unearths a long-buried secret that has the potential to plunge what’s left of society into chaos. K’s discovery leads him on a quest to find Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a former lApD blade runner who has been missing for 30 years. Oscar-nominated director Denis Villeneuve (“Arrival”) directed the much-anticipated sequel. Blade Runner 2049 was produced by Oscar nominees Andrew A. Kosove & Broderick Johnson (“The Blind Side”) and three-time Emmy winners Bud Yorkin & Cynthia Sikes Yorkin. Multiple Oscar nominee Ridley Scott
The basher — who is using the Twitter name @kathxnMalou Abdon Dario, a registered nurse, will host her ielonly — posted: “Namatayan na nga, nagagawa pang mag retirement party on Saturday, October 21, at the inarte na ganyan. Advocacy San Francisco Westin Hotel in Millbrae. pang keep going ulul #Ownalso mocked the young actress’ WhoYouAre pa rin without pretensions.” advocacy about depression. With the comment came The whole bashing incident came to light after a fan posted Anne to nadine’s defense. She posted back: “You are a hora photo Twitter showing narible person. You never know dine singing with Anne during what a person is going through the 8th anniversary kick-off of or how they deal with whatever their show “it’s Showtime.”
Actress and “It’s Showtime” co-host Nadine Lustre is back to work after the tragic passing of her younger brother. She has since been an advocate of depression and how young people should get help if they are depressed.
JUST like “moving on” as the most over-used/over-abused adjective by “un-coupling” showbiz sweethearts, “just friends” is likewise resorted to by suspected couples who are not (yet) ready or are not sure if there’s “something” between them. But since Janine Gutierrez is one of the very few sincere, honest and transparent denizens of the make-believe world, you would believe when she said at a recent media lunch that she and Rayver Cruz are, ehem, “just friends,” even as she admitted that Rayver followed her to Bali where she fulfilled her wish to spend her 28th birthday with friends there last Oct. 2. “Close lang kami,” added Janine. “Enjoy lang. Masaya kami, lumalabas-labas ’pag may time we are both busy with our careers.” pressed what the “real score” was, Janine was evasive. “Ask Rayver na lang,” she blushed a bit. it was Janine’s mom, lotlot de leon, who (unwittingly) acted as “bridge” between Janine and Rayver who fre-
because of your efforts.” pala’s renovation and suites and balcony suites will expansion project will create provide stunning views of the sur- 400 construction jobs and, once rounding vista and award-winning complete, add over 200 new Starlight Theater concerts. The employment opportunities to project will also increase pala’s pala’s current team of 2,000 team casino from its current 90,000 members. square feet to over 102,000 “One notable contribution square feet of gaming space. The by pala has been its commitexpansion will allow pala Casino ment to fair wages and employto increase its offering of slot and ment, evident in its efforts to video machines to 2,500 and its set a statewide standard for offering of table games to 88. gaming operations that has “pala has been a great provided many Californians with neighbor to the surrounding the middle-class wages that so communities in our district,” said many are struggling to obtain,” Assemblymember Waldron. “The said Assemblymember Gonzalezcasino and resort employs thouFletcher. “i want to congratulate sands of our residents and has Chairman Smith and the pala had a tremendous impact on the Band of Mission indians on their economic prosperity of the Tribe’s achievement today, thank them members. Under the leadership for their friendship and commitof Chairman Smith, pala has ment to the people of California, been a vast economic driver in and wish them the best of luck in my district and the surrounding this next chapter of their gaming areas. Our region is a better place enterprise.”
At 28, Janine Gutierrez can shed her sweet-sugary image and start playing mature (read: ‘somewhat sexy’) roles.
quents lotlot’s restaurant (which specializes in grilled dishes) in parañaque City where they both live. For more than a year now, Janine has been living alone at a condo unit (“i really saved up for it”) in a quiet neighborhood in Quezon City. lotlot delivers Janine’s weekly supply of dishes, especially sisigwhich is her favorite. Asked in a previous Star interview what her advice (reminder) to Janine was where boys were concerned, lotlot smiled, “Huwag akong gayahin.” if you recall, lotlot at barely 17 was Construction of the AAA Four Diamond award winning property is officially underway and will be completed in phases. The first phase will be completed in spring of 2018 and the final phase in late 2019. “This is a proud moment for pala, for this district, and for our region as a whole,” said Assemblymember Voepel. “The pala Band of Mission indians are part of our community fabric, and it’s been a true pleasure to watch them continue to grow and prosper as a Tribe.” The construction company selected for the renovation and expansion is level 10 Construction with headquarters in San Francisco, CA, and offices in Sunnyvale and San Diego, CA. The architect is Klai Juba Wald of las Vegas, nV. The contributing architect is Marks Architects of San Diego, CA. “We are very excited to
pregnant when she and Ramon “Monching” Christopher Gutierrez were married at civil rites in Club Filipino and they broke up many years later. Reminded by Funfare about it, Janine laughed, “Nalampasan ko na. Di ba 28 na ako?” recalling that when Mom lotlot had her debut, “i was at the party.” lotlot was heavy with Janine when she got married. After Janine came Jessica, an Ateneo graduate; Diego, fifth year at University of Asia & the pacific; and Maxine, high school at poveda, who is embarking on a field trip in Scandinavian countries. lotlot has found a new love (a foreigner) while Monching has remained fancyfree. “Sabi ni Papa, kaming magkakapatid na lang daw ang love(s) niya,” said Janine who denied that her dad and former girlfriend Tina paner have reconciled. (now a single mom, Tina is separated from her Spanish husband.) The mini presscon was organized by leo Dominguez who has just added Janine to his growing pool of talents that includes lovi poe and Solenn Continued on Page SF5 engage in our third major expansion since our introduction to the Southern California gaming and hospitality market more than 16 years ago. As in the past, we expect elements of this expansion and upgrade to be unique to our property and to set new resort standards,” Bembenek said. “This significant expansion project will complement our already luxurious resort offerings while providing our patrons with new world-class amenities.” Editor’s note: To access the pala Expansion Groundbreaking media kit, which includes architectural renderings, still photos, news and TV news video, please visit: https://ftp.palacasino.com; User name: palapress; log in: palapress; File: 2017-2018 Expansion. For more information on pala Casino Spa & Resort, please visit: www.palacasino.com. *Advertising Supplement
Graton Resort & Casino commits $1 million to support those impacted by Northern California fires ROHNERT PARK, CA – Graton Resort & Casino, the entertainment and gaming destination in Rohnert Park, CA, recently announced that it has committed $1 million to support those impacted by the devastation caused by the multiple fires throughout Northern California. “We are deeply saddened by the ongoing destruction in our community,” said Greg Sarris, Tribal Chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, owners of Graton Resort & Casino. “Not only are hundreds of our very own team members and tribal members displaced permanently from their homes, but we are heartbroken for the countless neighbors, families and friends whose lives have dramatically been affected by this ongoing devastation.” In addition to its $1 mil-
lion commitment, Graton Resort & Casinos has already been providing shelter via its hotel rooms to evacuees and continues to provide needed resources to the local community including providing food to first responders and the creation of a Team Member Assistance Fund to provide immediate resources such as food, clothing and toiletries to the hundreds of team members and their families displaced by the fires. Graton Resort & Casino Graton Resort & Casino is owned by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and managed by Station Casinos, LLC. To learn more, visit www. GratonResortCasino.com, www.facebook.com/GratonCasino or www.twitter.com/PlayGraton. *Advertising Supplement
Janine Gutierrez evolves... From Page SF4 Heussaff. Wouldn’t there be any rivalry (professional jealousy) among them? “No,” assured Janine. “Lovi and Solenn are my idols. I really admire how they take good care of their body kaya pina-follow ko sila. I am also a super-fan of Sarah (Geronimo). I am a Popster.”(Sarah is one of Rayver’s exes, the other being Cristine Reyes who is now married to Ali Khatibi by whom she has a child. Popster is how Sarah’s fans are called.) At the recent Kapamilya Star Magic Ball, Rayver brought Janine along (even if she is a certified Kapuso).Janine’s ex, Elmo Magalona, was there with girlfriend Janella Salvador but the exes were at opposite parts of the venue so they didn’t meet...and tried hard to avoid eye contact? Since she’s now on a new journey with Leo, an independent talent manager, is Janine free to, well, “cross borders” and do projects for the Kapamilya Network? Leo is still in the process of “negotiating”
(whatever that means or may lead to). “I have many things to look forward to,” revealed Janine who has just recorded a song (no title yet, with English and Filipino versions) for RedOne which is the producer of Lady Gaga and Jennifer Lopez. “I was nervous,” admitted Janine, adding in jest, “alam kaya nila na hindi ako singer?” And how did her Lola Pilita (Corrales, Monching’s mom) rate her singing? “Super proud siya. I’m not a singer pero para sa kanya, magaling ako. You know my lola, kahit anong gawin ko sobrang proud siya. When my 2017 Petron calendar came out late last year, we were at a family get-together and she proudly distributed copies of the calendar, never mind if medyo sexy ako d’un.” “I would love to do the same roles that Angelina Jolie is playing,” said Janine, “something like her Lara Croft character in ‘Tomb Raider.’ I can’t be playing sweet roles forever, after all, 28 na ako, di ba?”
entertainment
The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - October 20, 2017
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Even Georgina Wilson needs a little help to look this good GEORGINA Wilson continues to be on top of the list of “It Girls” this side of the world, even if she is already a proud wife and mother. Away from the spotlight for a while, it will be remembered that the model-host married her British husband Arthur Bernard in a picturesque English countryside wedding, and was blessed with a baby not long after. Basking from the love of 10-month old son Archie today, Wilson candidly reveals in an interview that she nonetheless discovered how motherhood “is a bit of a reality bites” when she found herself going through every new mom’s common dilemma—weight gain. Yes, life is fair, ladies, so
much so that Wilson openly talks about seeking the help of medical technology to get back in shape. “The routine of exercise and healthy eating just wouldn’t do the trick anymore” she laughingly admitted. And so, while Wilson enjoys every minute of being a mother to her toddler Archie, she has this food for thought to all mothers out there: “I know that being a mom is one of the greatest roles we will have to play in life, but we, women, must also value our body. Taking care of ourselves should also be our priority. So, go for a little help if you have to,” she ended with a knowing smile. (ManilaTimes.net) With British husband Arthur Bernard and son Archie
What can we learn from Harvey...
From Page SF3 open secret in Hollywood and beyond. There were attempts to investigate and expose the misdemeanor but because too few people were willing to speak, much less allow a reporter to use their names, it was buried like it never happened. Now here we are. And finally, women have been coming out to speak about the sexual advances and harassment that this man did. Amidst these allegations, according to The New Yorker, “On October 5th, in an initial effort at damage control, Weinstein responded to the Times piece by issuing a statement partly acknowledging what he had done, saying, ‘I appreciate the way I’ve behaved with colleagues in the past has caused a lot of pain, and I sincerely apologize for it.’ In an interview with the New York Post, he said, ‘I’ve got to deal with my personality, I’ve got to work on my temper, I have got to dig deep. I know a lot of people would like me to go into a facility, and I may well just do that—I will go anywhere I can learn more about myself.’ Weinstein went on. But before we get into how “sorry” Weinstein really is, let’s go back to the number of stories (complaints) that have been going around as more and more women are starting to speak up. Many of the stories bear similarities: Weinstein would arrange a hotel meet-up under the guise of business, he would request
a massage, make intimidating sexual advances or masturbate in front of his subject. According to New York Times, the following incidents took place: Actress Ashley Judd recalled a hotel breakfast meeting with Weinstein while shooting Kiss the Girls. Mr. Weinstein soon issued invitation after invitation, she said. Could he give her a massage? When she refused, he suggested a shoulder rub. She rejected that too, she recalled. He steered her toward a closet, asking her to help pick out his clothing for the day, and then toward the bathroom. Would she watch him take a shower? she remembered him saying. In 1997, Weinstein reached a settlement with actress Rose McGowan. The $100,000 settlement was “not to be construed as an admission” by Mr. Weinstein, but intended to “avoid litigation and buy peace,” according to the legal document, which was reviewed by The Times. Gwyneth Paltrow said Weinstein sexually harassed her when she was 22 years old filming Emma. “I was a kid, I was signed up, I was petrified,” she said in an interview, publicly disclosing that she was sexually harassed by the man who ignited her career and later helped her win an Academy Award. Angelina Jolie recalled Weinstein making sexual advances in a hotel room.
On another outlet, The New Yorker, the following were also reported: Italian actress Lucia Stoller (who now goes by Lucia Evans) said Weinstein forced her to perform oral sex during an office meeting. “At that point, after that, is when he assaulted me,” Evans said. “He forced me to perform oral sex on him.” As she objected, Weinstein took his penis out of his pants and pulled her head down onto it. “I said, over and over, ‘I don’t want to do this, stop, don’t,’” she said. “I tried to get away, but maybe I didn’t try hard enough. I didn’t want to kick him or fight him.” In the end, she said, “He’s a big guy. He overpowered me.” A few more have recently come out with their sickening stories of sexual advances from Weinstein. Among them were Heather Graham, Cara Delevingne and Kate Beckinsale who said that Weinstein offered her alcohol in his hotel room when she was 17 and that she repeatedly declined his sexual advances over the years. Five days after the Harvey Weinstein sex scandal exploded, the movie producer’s wife announced she’s leaving him. “My heart breaks for all the women who have suffered tremendous pain because of these unforgivable actions. I have chosen to leave my husband. Caring for my young children is my first
priority and I ask the media for privacy at this time,” Marchesa designer Georgina Chapman told People in a statement. The split was separately confirmed by Us Weekly. So what can we learn from this nightmare? How do we avoid it? I honestly don’t know how women have endured such behavior but it’s about time we make a stand. Sexual harassment is everywhere and part of it is because, we are so afraid to call it out. Whether it’s our fear of our lives being threatened or our reputations ruined, or even our careers. While all of these are valid, we have to understand that if we let abusive people continue on while we sit in the corner paralyzed in fear, we are participating in their evildoings one way or another. It’s time we put an end to this and if there’s one thing we can take away from all this, it’s that. In closing I sincerely hope that justice will be served and that Weinstein will truly learn from this and prove that he’s worth the second chance he is asking for. *** 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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T h e A sia n Jou r nal SF MAGAZIN E - Oct ob e r 20, 2017
seafood city fpfc roger