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Volume 15 - No. 37 • 3 Sections – 22 Pages
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DATELINE Fil-Am news anchor to moderate VP debate from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA
eLAINe Quijano, anchor of CBs’ digital network CBsN, is making history as the first Asian American and first digital network anchor to moderate a national debate during the general election campaign. the 42-year-old filipino-American anchor is also one of the youngest debate moderators. the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) announced last week that Quijano will moderate the only debate between vice presidential nominees senator tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Governor mike Pence (r-Ind.) on tuesday, oct. 4 at Longwood University in farmville, Virginia. According to the CPD, the 90-minute debate will be broken up into nine segments of 10 minutes each and will be broadcast without commercial interruption on the CBs television Network and CBsN at 9 p.m. et. “It’s an honor to be chosen to help bring the issues of this critical election to the public,” Quijano said, as reported by CBs News. the filipino-American is a weekday anchor for CBsN, CBs News’ 24-hour digital streaming network, and spearheads its political reporting. she is also an anchor of the sunday edition of CBs “Weekend News” and
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DHS considers ending use of private prisons to house detained immigrants A DePArtmeNt of homeland security (Dhs) advisory council has until November 30 to decide whether the federal government will continue holding detained immigrants in for-profit prisons, or end its use of private detention centers. homeland security secretary Jeh Johnson commissioned the Dhs review on friday, August 26, then publicized it at a press event the following monday, August 29, according to Politico. the investigation comes amidst mounting scrutiny from humanitarian groups, and just over a week after officials at the Department of Justice (DoJ) announced they would not renew contracts with private prison operators. Johnson said the council had been tasked “to review our current policy and practices concerning the use of private immigration detention and evaluate whether this practice should be eliminated.” for-profit facilities have faced criticism from civil rights watchdogs and immigration advocates who decry reports of abuse and substandard housing conditions, as well as
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Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEw YORk/NEw JERSEY
Anti-Marcos burial proponents organize protest in Bay Area Chanting “marcos Not a hero, Kontra Libing tayo!,” “marcos, marcos Not a hero!,” and “marcos, marsAN frANCIsCo, Calif. — filipi- cos, Diktador, Diktador!” from among nos opposed to the planned burial of a slew of anti-burial chants, protesters the late Philippine dictator ferdinand voiced their displeasure on the plan of marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bay- current Philippine President rodrigo ani gathered en masse in front of the Duterte to allow the burial of marcos Philippine Center Building in down- in the heroes’ cemetery. Currently, town san francisco on Wednesday, the body of the former president is september 7. the building houses the encased in a glass coffin inside a mauPhilippine Consulate General offices soleum in Ilocos Norte. speakers at the protest included in the Bay Area. by JOsePh
Peralta AJPress
marcos regime victims, human rights activists, war veterans and community organizers. melinda Paras, a former marcos prison detainee, shared her thoughts with the Asian Journal. “After we won in the People Power revolution and marcos was deposed, I think we all thought, ‘he’s gone, we’ll have democracy restored, and that’s the end of it.’ of course, many of the victims are still trying to get compensation out of the money that marcos
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Obama cancels bilateral meeting, Duterte regrets remarks by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
After initial reports that indicated Philippine President rodrigo Duterte called U.s. President Barack obama a string of obscenities — including “son of a b****” — transcripts from that press conference indicate that he was actually referring to a reporter, not obama. During a Q&A with reuters on monday, september 5 in Davao City, a reporter asked Duterte several questions regarding the upcoming bilateral meeting with obama. the reporter in question asked: “sir, there have been concerns on extrajudicial killings, sir. And you will meet leaders, any line of communication that we have prepared to address this issue in front of other
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ANTI-MARCOS BURIAL PROTEST. Community groups and Filipino Americans staged a protest in front of the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco on Wednesday, September 7 in opposition to a move by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte allowing the burial of former president Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The Kontra Libing Coaltion-organized protest was part of a series of protests organized in other cities around the United States and in other countries. AJ photo by Joseph Peralta
Obama reaffirms US commitment to Asia by Christina
M. Oriel
AJPress
DUrING his 11th and final trip to Asia, President Barack obama pledged that the United states has continued strong commitment to the region — one that would last even beyond his presidency. “the United states is more deeply engaged across the Asia-Pacific region than we have been in decades,” he said at the Association of southeast Asian Nations (AseAN) summit on tuesday, sept. 6 in Vientiane, Laos. “We’ve sent a message
that we’re here to stay.” he added that the country’s presence in the region, as evidenced by his administration’s “pivot to Asia” — is not “a passing fad,” as it reflects “fundamental national interests.” the president laid out the “principles for peace and progress” in the region, including “sovereignty and territorial integrity” of each nation and upholding human rights. though not directly naming China, he said that “bigger nations should not dictate to smaller nations, and that all nations
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(Dot) to the senate committee on public services, which is hearing proposals to grant emergenmANILA — the government cy powers to Duterte. sen. Grace Poe chairs the will spend a minimum of P1.15 trillion in infrastructure and committee, which received the other projects to be fast-tracked proposal from transportation if Congress grants President secretary Arthur tugade last Duterte emergency powers to friday, sept. 2, including a draft deal with the transportation and emergency powers legislation. the proposed emergency powtraffic crises. senate minority Leader ralph ers would be in effect for three recto said his calculation was years, providing legal short-cuts based on the submission of the for the procurement and bidding Department of transportation u PAGE A2 by PaOlO
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looted from the Philippines out of their torture and the murder of their loved ones. But for the most part, we thought we put an end to this chapter,” she said. she continued: “What we’re seeing today is a concerted movement in the Philippines to whitewash the entire experience of martial law. We’re seeing young people coming up today who are being told that martial law was a wonderful period – there
Duterte’s obscenities directed to reporter, not Pres. Obama
Traffic projects under emergency powers to cost P1.15 trillion
Manila’s traffic
S E P T E MBE R 9 - 1 5 , 2 0 1 6
AFP: No abuses during ‘state of emergency’ by Fernan
Marasigan ManilaTimes.net
the military on Wednesday, sept. 7, allayed fears of abuses during implementation of the “state of National emergency on Account of Lawless Violence” even as soldiers were instructed to undergo troops Information and education (tIe) to ensure citizen’s entitlements under the Bill of rights of the Constitution. “We would like to ensure that as we respond to the [Commander-in-Chief’s] call for the AfP [Armed forces of the Philippines] to help suppress lawless violence in mindanao and prevent its spread to other areas of the country, the execution of our tasks will always be proper and with due regard to every citizen’s
entitlements under the Bill of rights,” said the AfP Chief of staff Gen. ricardo Visaya. he issued the statement after he directed the conduct of the tIe among soldiers and commanders in the field particularly those assigned to the Western mindanao Command, eastern mindanao Command and the Joint task force National Capital region “through the most expedient means.” Lectures under the troops Information and education, according to Visaya, will cover what the proclamation of the state of national emergency entails and how this translates to the AfP. he said the lectures will also lay down guidelines on how to perform specific tasks related to
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From the Front Page
Anti-Marcos burial proponents organize…
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was law and order, there was no crime, and everything was good. And the stories of the people who were killed and tortured, and the loss of liberty and the effect on the country is not being told sufficiently because there are so many people now who don’t remember or have never heard of these stories.” “Many of us are older and before we die, we want to make sure that the next generation knows. And it’s important that they know to make sure it never happens again because there are lessons about this. Whenever a strongman stands up and says, ‘I will bring you order but I will have to kill people, I will have to eliminate civil liberties…’ don’t believe them. We’ve learned that lesson. Let’s not forget it and have it happen again,” Paras added. Paras described her ordeal in Camp Aguinaldo as “terrifying” and “a horrifying experience.” “I was told that I was going to be charged with attempting to
overthrow the government and that that was a death penalty [offense]. There was no press operating in the Philippines at that time. There was no way to know how many people were being killed and what was happening to anyone,” she related. Describing herself as one of the lucky ones to have escaped via the efforts of her family and a few American senators (she is an American citizen), Paras says she feels obliged to tell her story and the stories of others who were not as fortunate to have gotten away. Another Marcos prison detainee, Susan Araneta, said burying Marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bayani is similar to giving a certain World War II figure a similar honor. “We fought so hard for our freedom and for the freedom of succeeding generations against a dictator who just, with impunity, killed so many. After fighting for that long, for Marcos to be given a hero’s burial it is tantamount to Hitler being given a hero’s buri-
al,” she said. “And the signal it gives to the younger people is that it’s okay, a dictator can also become a hero… it’s okay you can have your rights trampled on, we can still honor this guy,” she further stated. Araneta also said that Marcos does not deserve a hero’s burial because “those medals are fake, and 9th District Court in the US found that he’s guilty of human rights violations.” It does not surprise Araneta though that there are some who support the Marcos burial at Libingan ng mga Bayani. “Imee Marcos [Manotoc] has this media organization and through the years they have mounted this sophisticated media blitz. The Marcoses have this Melinda Paras, a former Marcos prison detainee, speaks at the protest rally. whole network of people who support them and because they have the money it’s so easy for them to launch media campaigns, social western leaders summit in Vienmedia included. But it does not PAGE A1 t foreign leaders?” tiane, Laos. mean a whole lot of people supAccording to Duterte, the reLeading up to the summit, port them,” she said. porter “just threw questions and Duterte said that he would not u PAGE A3 statements” to which Duterte re- discuss human rights issues with sponded with his trademark off- Obama until the U.S. apologizes color manner of speaking. for the pacification campaign of “Iyong mga kolumnista diyan the Moro people in Mindanao at on Account of Lawless Violence na ‘wait until he meets,’ who is the turn of the century in which in Mindanao.” he? (There are columnists out 600 died. The proclamation noted that there that write headlines such He even told American officials “in recent months, there has as ‘Who is he?’),” Duterte told to look into the police shootings been a spate of violent and law- the media, referencing anticipa- of black men in the U.S., saying less acts across many parts of tory media reports preceding the they are “still human rights violaMindanao, including abductions, meeting. “I am a president of a tions.” hostage-takings and murders sovereign state and we have long Obama responded to Duterte’s of innocent civilians, bombings ceased to be a colony. I do not vulgarities, offering a reason for of power transmission facilities, have any master except the Fili- the cancellation. robberies and extortions, attacks pino people.” “He’s a colorful guy,” Obama on military outposts, assassina“You must be respectful,” he joked. “I always want to make tions of media people and mass continued, speaking directly to sure that if I’m having a meeting jailbreaks.” n the reporter. “Do not just throw that it’s actually productive.” questions and statements. PuThe White House later contang-ina, mumurahin kita diyan firmed on Tuesday night, Sept. 6, sa forum na ‘yan (Son of a b****, that the meeting was cancelled I will curse you in that forum).” due to the vulgar remarks. Ben Not all projects will be wholly Fil-Am writer Nizza Gueco Rhodes, Obama’s deputy nationgovernment-funded as many will clarified the Philippine presi- al security advisor said that the be built under the public-private dent’s comments in a column comments were “not construcpartnership program. on liberal news site “Liberal tive” and would not have lead to However, the DOT must in- America” in which she translated a productive meeting. dicate government counterpart and contextualized Duterte’s re“Given the important issues and contingent liabilities for marks. She said that Duterte’s that we have, having a meeting transparency’s sake, Recto said. choice phrasing was an attempt where all we were gonna discuss The road sector projects cost to uplift Filipinos and emphasize was a series of comments, frankly P58.6 billion, a huge chunk of the autonomy of the Philippines. did not strike us as the most conwhich is for the P39.4-billion “As Filipinos, we have already structive way to approach a bilatMetro Manila Bus Rapid Tran- accepted the fact that he does eral meeting,” Rhodes said in a sit Line 2, a 48.6-kilometer loop that a lot. He curses in public and press conference in Vientiane. around EDSA, Ayala Avenue, it’s not that big of a deal for us,” Later, Duterte expressed reNAIA and the Ortigas and Boni- Gueco wrote. “It’s not because gret for his comments that have facio Global City business dis- we want to be seen as a country caused local and international tricts. n without class or breeding, but it uproar. is because we know it is just his “I do not want to quarrel with expression that is being taken him. He’s the most powerful out of context.” president of any country on the Following media reports false- planet,” Duterte said of Obama ly reporting he directed these after arriving in Laos for the comments to Obama, the White ASEAN summit Tuesday. House confirmed that the much Hillary Clinton said that anticipated bilateral meeting be- Obama’s decision to cancel the tween the two leaders was can- meeting was “appropriate” conceled. The two were scheduled to sidering the nature of the commeet privately on Tuesday, Sept. ments. 6 during the Association of South“With respect to the Philipeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and pines, President Obama made
Duterte’s obscenities directed to reporter…
AFP: No abuses during ‘state of…
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the proclamation. These tasks include, but are not limited to, conduct of checkpoints, foot or mobile patrols and enforcement of curfews whenever and wherever necessary in tandem with the Philippine National Police (PNP). “By this conduct of the TIE, we would like to ensure proper information and knowledge management among our officers and men on the ground,” Visaya
pointed out. At the same time, the AFP chief asked for the public’s cooperation in the government’s effort to suppress lawless violence and prevent the spread of similar violent incidents to other parts of the country. Before leaving for Laos for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation 55 declaring a “State of National Emergency
Traffic projects under emergency powers to…
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processes and the creation of a single traffic authority. The DOT’s list is clustered into four sectors: road, maritime, aviation and rail. The rail sector has a proposed budget of P1.07 trillion or 93 percent of DOT’s P1.15-trillion wish list. Recto urged the DOT to segregate the projects into levels of priority, “from the super urgent to the slightly urgent.” The list includes projects that can be put on the back burner, like the construction of a training room in one DOT-supervised of-
fice and the purchase of non-essential computers, he added. Recto proposed that the DOT wish list “be clustered under one item in the 2017 national budget so that the budget cover needed to implement these will have the okay of Congress.” “We should remember that the emergency powers being sought to address the transportation crisis can never include the power to appropriate funds,” he said. “What it only allows is the fast procurement of projects for which funds have been appropriated.”
AJ photo by Joseph Peralta
exactly the right choice,” Clinton told the media on Tuesday. “When the president of the Philippines insulted our president, it was appropriate and a very lowkey way to say, ‘Sorry, no meeting.’” Clinton also noted that Duterte’s apology and expression of regret were also “appropriate.” “We have a lot of ties between the United States and the Philippines. And I think it’s very important that we have a relationship, but there has to be a certain level of respect that’s expected on both sides,” Clinton added. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump took to Twitter to comment on Duterte’s remarks, denoting the “terrible” treatment Obama has received on his Asia tour. “China wouldn’t provide a red carpet stairway from Air Force One, and then Philippines President calls Obama ‘the son of a whore.’ Terrible!” Trump tweeted on Tuesday. The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. said that the bilateral meeting will be postponed to a later date. “While asserting the intent to chart an independent foreign policy and promote closer ties with all nations, he expressed his deep regard and affinity for President Obama and for the enduring partnership between our nations,” the embassy said in a statement released Tuesday. “[Duterte] looks forward to ironing out differences arising out of national priorities and perceptions, and working in mutually responsible ways for both countries.” As the Asian Journal previously reported, the leaders were to discuss a variety of issues including the South China Sea dispute and the human rights concerns amid the escalating drug-related killings in the Philippines. n
Obama reaffirms US commitment…
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should play by the same rules.” “And across the region, including in the East and South China Seas, the United States will continue to fly and sail and operate wherever international law allows, and support the right of all countries to do the same,” he said, referring to the territorial disputes many ASEAN countries have with China over the waters. He also touched upon the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership, a trade agreement that the U.S. has with 12 countries, including Singapore, Japan and Malaysia. The Philippines did not sign onto the TPP, though the country has expressed interest in
joining in the future. “TPP is a core pillar of America’s rebalance to the Asia Pacific. And the trade and the growth it supports will reinforce America’s security alliances and regional partnerships,” he argued, adding that it would have “economic consequences” and “would call into question America’s leadership in this vital region” if it does not move ahead. He went on to say that the U.S. has been working to “rebalance our foreign policy” in the region by creating military alliances with countries like Japan and Korea. “And with our new access agreement with the Philippines, our militaries are closer than they’ve been in decades,” Obama
noted in his speech. Earlier in July, the U.S. pledged to give the Philippines $32 million in aid for military training and services, including upholding the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) between the two countries. Obama’s trip marks the firstever visit by a sitting American president to Laos. The U.S. president was slated to have a bilateral conversation with President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, but canceled following controversial comments from the Philippine leader. The two were supposed to discuss issues such as the Philippines’ war on drugs and the South China Sea territorial disputes. n
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Fil-Am fugitive wanted for Tucson murder hiding in PH by Eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
A FILIPINO-AMERICAN accused of fatally shooting a man during a house party in Tucson, Arizona, 16 years ago remains at large after fleeing to the Philippines. Police hope the public might have information leading to the capture of Anthony Burroughs, who was last seen at a strip club in Metro Manila, according to sources for CNN’s “The Hunt with John Walsh.” The 5’7”, 200 lb 37-year-old, who has his last
FIRST CONFIRMED ZIKA CASE IN PH. Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rossell Ubial announced through spokesperson Dr. Eric Tayag that a 45-year-old female, married, non pregnant from Iloilo City was the first confirmed case of Zika in 2016. This case was most likely due to local transmission since there was no history of travel to any affected country in the past two weeks. The DOH has coordinated with local officials to intensify mosquito control efforts including targeted fogging. Photo from DOH.gov
Anti-Marcos burial proponents organize… PAGE A2 t One of the youth present at the protest action, Tobin Galang, said that the youth presence is to “make sure that the history that we as Filipino youth all over the world [know] is not whitewashed, and is not one that has been revised to hide all of the human rights violations and all of the atrocities committed by Ferdinand Marcos and his family.” “We’re here to voice our outrage against the hero’s burial because Marcos does not deserve a hero’s burial,” he said. Galang said that actions will continue for the youth regarding this issue. “We will continue to have educational discussions to mobilize out to the streets like today, continue sharing information and history that comes from the people and is not revised by the imperialist and neo-liberal agenda. We’re here today to make sure that this narrative of US benevolence [and] glorification of Ferdinand Marcos is changed so that the people’s narrative does arise and is one that upholds the interest of the people,” he stated. Paras, Araneta and Galang have differing messages to Presi-
dent Duterte, but hold true to their sentiment regarding a Marcos burial at the LNMB. “We won’t forget and that we won’t let the people forget. It doesn’t matter what he [Duterte] says. There are thousands and thousands who experienced [the torture] firsthand and we’ll make sure that the next generation won’t forget,” Paras said. “Marcos should not be buried in the Libingan because he is not a hero. What kind of message does this send to the youth: that we should tolerate a dictatorship… that we should tolerate the violation of human rights?,” Araneta stated. “I would like for President Rodrigo Duterte to reconsider his declaration to have Marcos buried at the heroes’ graveyard so as to uphold the interest of the Filipino people who suffered under Marcos,” said Galang. The Supreme Court on Wednesday, Sept 7, extended until Oct. 18 its order temporarily stopping the burial of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City that was supposedly set on Sept. 18. The high tribunal initially is-
Fil-Am news anchor to …
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contributes to “Evening News with Scott Pelley” and “CBS This Morning.” Quijano, who is currently based out of New York, has been with CBS since 2010, with coverage including the Boston Marathon bombings, Superstorm Sandy and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. According to a release by the news organization, she was part of the team that won an Alfred I. duPont Award for coverage of the 2012 Newtown elementary school massacre. She was previously a Washington, D.C. correspondent for CNN, covering the White House, the Pentagon and the Supreme Court. Some of her work included the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and major highlights of President George W. Bush’s term, such as his inauguration and the War on Terror. Quijano grew up in the Chicago suburbs of Morton Grove and Skokie and earned her journalism degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She started her career at WCIA-TV in
Champaign, Illinois and then as a general assignment reporter for WFTS-TV in Tampa, Florida. “I’ll keep doing broadcast journalism until I don’t find it fun or interesting anymore. You have to have an intense passion for this. The day that it stops being fun and interesting, I’ll know it’s time to go,” Quijano told the Asian Journal’s MDWK Magazine in 2008. There will be three debates for presidential nominees Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, with the first one scheduled for Sept. 26 at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York to be moderated by NBC News’ Lester Holt. The subsequent ones will be on Oct. 9 at Washington University in St. Louis presided by Martha Raddatz of ABC News and CNN’s Anderson Cooper and on Oct. 19 at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas anchored by Chris Wallace of Fox News. The lineup of debate moderators comes after the CPD was urged to select more diverse journalists. (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)
DHS considers ending use…
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the expansion of the private prison industry. A July report from Human Rights Watch (HRW) attributed seven out of the 18 deaths that occurred at immigration detention centers to inadequate medical care. “We certainly see a lot of these problems magnified when a company is seeking to extract as much profit as it can out of a detention center,” the executive director of Grassroots Leadership, Bob Libal, told the Los Angeles Times. However, sources from Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) told the LA Times that moving thousands of incarcerated immigrants out of private facilities could take over a decade and cost taxpayers billions. Private contractors are currently responsible for housing two-thirds of the approximately 31,000 people held in DHS custody on a day to day basis. ICE does not maintain its own detention centers. Some officials warn that if private detention centers close, asylum seekers, undocumented immigrants, and green card-holding residents awaiting immigration hearings could be sent to state and local jails where they would face even worse conditions. “Before this ever happens, the facilities we currently use have
to be replaced — that’s basically the only way, or it will shut us down,” said Chris Crane, president of the National Immigration and Customs Enforcement Council, which represents federal deportation officers. Even if the federal government cuts all ties with private prison operators, the industry would continue to survive because state and local clients make up the overwhelming majority of its clientele, according to various sources. However, recent moves by the DHS and DOJ bring attention to growing concerns about the management of America’s inmate population. A DOJ report released in August noted higher rates of assaults on both prisoners and prison employees at for-profit institutions versus federally-run detention centers. “The fact of the matter is that private prisons don’t compare favorably to Bureau of Prisons facilities in terms of safety or security or services,” said Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates in an August memo instructing DOJ officials to allow private prison contracts to lapse. “Now with the decline in the federal prison population, we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to do something about that.” (Eric Anthony Licas / AJ Press)
sued the order last Aug. 23, effective for 20 days, to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya as the military had started preparations for the burial. Similar protests were also held in other cities and countries, including New York, Washington DC, Los Angeles, Chicago, Guam, Saipan, Hongkong, Copenhagen, London and Paris. n
name tattooed on his back, fled the U.S. after allegedly killing Ruben Rodriguez on April 29, 2000. “I was told it was over a girl,” Rodriguez’s ex-girlfriend, Melinda Ochoa told CNN. Witnesses say the two men met for the first time that night and wound up trading blows. After the fistfight, Rodriguez had reportedly helped Burroughs get up from the ground and was then shot in the shoulder as he walked away from the suspect, according to Ochoa. The wound destroyed the victim’s carotid
artery, according to Tucson Police Detective, Tom Stewart. Burroughs had also shot himself in the foot during the incident. With the help of his girlfriend and another accomplice, he sought medical attention in Mexico, supposedly to avoid alerting law enforcement of his whereabouts. American Customs officials stopped the fugitive’s car as he reentered the country, but eventually released him. He was then able to board a plane in Phoenix, Arizona and escape to the Philippines.
bor, Richard Fairchild, told NBC that Babb’s dog Rocky barked wildly the night she disappeared. The next day, the victim’s son, John Babb, 36, received a text message from people threatening to harm his mother unless a $60,000 ransom was paid. “I pray every day that I’ll see my mom again,” said John Babb during a press conference on Tuesday, July 12. “It Just doesn’t make any sense.” He told reporters his mother had lived in poverty in the Philippines and continued to struggle financially in America, according to the Daily Republic. He said she had declared bankruptcy and could barely afford to pay her rent.
Police say Espinoza was “well acquainted” with the victim. He and three others were arrested in connection to Elvira Babb’s disappearance on Sunday, July 10. Prosecutors dropped kidnapping charges against Jalon Brown, 32, and Larry Young, 23, but the two are still accused of acting as accessories to a felony. The fourth suspect, Lovely M. Ruazol, 27, has been cleared of all charges. Investigators say they are still working to find Babb. Anyone who might have information leading to her discovery should contact Detective Terry Poyser of the Vallejo Police Department at 707-648-4080. n
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Lead suspect charged with murder in connection to missing Fil-Am woman by Eric
Anthony LicAs AJPress
ONE of the people arrested in July for kidnapping a Filipino-American woman in California – whose whereabouts remain unknown – could be eligible for execution after prosecutors added murder to the list of charges against him on Friday, September 2. Prosecutors in Northern California accuse Emanuel D. Espinoza, 26, of causing the death of Fil-Am mother Elvira Babb. She has been missing since June 29, and was last seen by a coworker who dropped her off outside the Vallejo branch of Seafood City. The missing woman’s neigh-
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Fil-Am lawmaker urges criminal justice reform in CA by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
FILIPINO LANTERN IN SINGAPORE. Joining the celebration of Christianity in Asia, Filipinos in Singapore lit this 14-foot Christmas lantern at the Asian Civilization Museum (ACM) last Saturday, Sept. 3. Made of fiberglass and rigged with 1,200 light bulbs, the lantern was commissioned from Pampanga. It is on exhibit until Sept. 12 and will be reinstalled at ACM in October in time for Christmas. Inquirer photo
US has admitted 10,000 Syrian refugees so far in 2016 the refugee program, including its stringent security screening protocols, has been essential to AFTER President Barack this effort.” Obama announced his resettleThe program — called the U.S. ment program last fall, the Resettlement Program (USRP) United States has so far admit- — seeks to “uphold America’s ted 10,000 Syrian refugees in humanitarian response to refu2016 as of Monday, August 29, gees” through three phases: sea month ahead of schedule. curity, placement and transition, This marks the largest influx according to the Department of of Syrian refugees in a single Homeland Security (DHS). year since the civil war in Syria After refugees are screened began five years ago. through a lengthy security pro“This achievement is a testa- cess that includes comprehenment to the hard work and dedi- sive background checks, they cation of employees across the are placed in particular areas federal government,” National of the countries within 30 to 90 Security Advisor Susan E. Rice days. said in a statement released on Once they’re settled, the govMonday, August 29. “Their com- ernment provides assistance to mitment to meeting the Presi- help them adjust to life in the dent’s expectation that we both U.S. by way of financial and increase our refugee admissions medical aid, employment assisand strengthen the integrity of tance and a variety of specialby Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
ized programs. “Today, they are refugees. Tomorrow, they can be students and professors, scientists and researchers, workers and caregivers,” United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in April. In general, refugees are usually placed in cities in which they have family and/or friends, David Murphy, executive director for the International Rescue Committee in San Diego, told ABC News. If that’s not the case, they’re placed in areas with high concentrations of people of the same culture and/ or ethnicity. Data from the Census Bureau states that there are more than 150,000 Syrians living in the U.S. Most Syrians have been sent to medium-sized cities with af-
ONE of the issues most important to Assemblymember Rob Bonta is reforming California’s criminal justice system. In July, Bonta — the first Filipino-American in the state’s Legislature — took action. As chair of the Select Committee on Boys and Men of Color, he gathered lawmakers, academics, community leaders and ex-convicts to discuss the shortcomings of the state’s criminal justice, paying particular attention to the state’s bail system. “In my view, it’s not a question of if the system needs to be reformed, it’s a question of how,” Bonta said in a hearing on July 6. When an individual is arrested, they may be required to pay the court a certain amount of money — called bail — in exchange for release. This relies on the grounds that the individual shows up to court for a trial. The bail system was established to reduce court absences, but critics, including Bonta, say
that bail puts a premium on poor people who can’t afford bail. “If you are poor and can’t pay bail, you will sit in jail even if your violation is something as minor as a traffic ticket and you’re not a risk to public safety or a flight risk,” Bonta said in a statement. “If you have the money to pay your cash bail, you can get out, no matter how likely you are to flee or reoffend.” Bonta refers to the system as “an issue of racial, social and economic injustice” that disproportionately singles out not only the poor, but also people of color. More than 60 percent of those incarcerated in California are sitting in jail merely because they were not able to afford bail. In other words, more than 46,000 people that are locked up have not been convicted of a crime and are legally innocent. On average, it costs taxpayers each more than $100 a day to keep one person in jail, which translates to a statewide cost of $4.5 million. Last year, a group of lawyers in San Francisco filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of two
former inmates that accused the state’s bail system services wealthy suspects while disfavoring poor suspects. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, the lawsuit sought to eliminate the cash bail system in San Francisco and possibly California and the country. However, those who oppose abolishing the system say that bail actually holds suspects accountable. Maggie Kreins, president of California’s Bail Agents Association, told KQED News that the damages from individuals skipping court are far more detrimental and more expensive. “When these individuals don’t go to court, who’s going to look for them?” said Kreins, who also heads her own bail bond company Maggie’s Bail Bonds in Long Beach. “The taxpayers are going to have to pay two or three times to arrest the same person.” “We’ve already seen in California [that] the crime rates have gone up. It’s getting scary out there, and they’re making it so nobody’s going to be held accountable for anything anymore.” n
Fil-Am fugitive wanted for Tucson…
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Police continued to work on the case, but Burroughs’s trail grew cold over the years. “There were a lot of people giving misinformation,” Stewart told CNN. “At a certain point, over the years, you run out of people to talk to.” Then, well over a decade after Rodriguez’s death, a confidential source in the Philippines gave investigators a critical lead. In 2014, police learned that Bur-
roughs’s mother -- who is originally from Iloilo, Philippines -had been sending money to her son overseas, and were able to obtain a warrant to search her home. Officers spent 14 hours looking for clues before finding a collection of letters sent by Burroughs from the Philippines. “We very much believe that Anthony’s mother has tipped him off and drove him back underground,” Deputy U.S. Marshall Jen Rippey told CNN. “We also
fordable housing situations and ample job opportunities, but some of the major cities — like Los Angeles, New York City, Houston, Chicago and Boston — have accepted a considerable amount of refugees. California and Michigan have received the most Syrian refugees, according to an ABC News report. In addition to LA, cities in California that have accepted a large number of Syrian refugees include San Diego, Santa Ana, Sacramento, Oakland and cities all across the Southland, according to the Office of Refu-
gee Resettlement. The U.S. is no stranger to welcoming refugees fleeing political turmoil. In 1979, the country welcomed 111,000 Vietnamese refugees and 207,000 more in 1980. More than 120,000 Cuban refugees were also welcomed during the Mariel boatlift in 1980. Rice said that the U.S. is looking to welcome at least 85,000 refugees this year, including those from Burma, the Democratic Republic of Congo, El Salvador, Iraq, Somalia, Ukraine and other countries. n
believe she is still financing him in some way, shape or form.” She described the suspect as a “wannabe” who glamorized the gangster lifestyle. He had a criminal record for theft and assaulting his girlfriend, and was known to usually have a gun on his person. Tattoos decorate ¾ of both of his arms, in addition to his upper back and chest. Rodriguez was 19 and had just landed a sales job in a jewelry store at the time of his death, according to his mother, Sandra Medina. He joined a gang during high school, and wound up in juvenile detention after being caught with a small amount of drugs, according to CNN. He was released after turning 18. “That’s when he started changing,” Medina told CNN. “Ruben didn’t want to be involved with these people anymore.” Since discovering Burroughs’s letters to his mother, deputy U.S. Marshals have been dispatched to the Philippines. They are working with local authorities to track the suspect, who was last seen in May of 2014. n
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Dateline PhiliPPines
A
Investors worried over state of PNP chief: 6-month deadline lawlessness; BSP allays fears to end drug menace possible by lawRence
agcaoili Philstar.com
MANILA – If the deteriorating peace and order situation and political instability in the Philippines are left unchecked, these could derail the strong economic growth and result in a volatile financial market, investors warned. ING Bank Manila senior economist Joey Cuyegkeng said investors reacted negatively to President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement against leaders of long-time allies including US President Barrack Obama, the extrajudicial killings and the bombing in Davao City. “Concerns also over extrajudicial killings and statements that may antagonize long-time allies are also making international news, which has elicited growing concerns from investors. The Davao City bomb blast killing 14-15 innocent citizens highlights the possibility of increased terrorist activity,” he said. Duterte’s declaration of a state of national emergency and order to the Philippine National Police and the military to “suppress all forms of lawless violence” was also seen from a risk standpoint that the government needs assistance for the national police to counter a perceived state of lawlessness. For others, lawlessness was also a result of government statements that may have encouraged vigilante killings. “We believe that such political developments and concerns if unchecked would have more profound impact on markets and the economy,” Cuyegkeng said. But Cuyegkeng noted that the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals would likely cushion the impact of recent developments on economic growth as well as the attractiveness of the Philippines as an investment destination. He cited the seven percent growth in gross domestic product (GDP) in the second quarter, the record $85.5-billion foreign exchange reserves as of end July and stable financial system.
“For now, the impact is likely to be marginal and is likely to be offset by favorable macro-economic fundamentals – structural inflows, high FX reserves, strong domestic demand and monetary and fiscal leeway,” he said. However, growing concerns on political stability as well as the impending interest rate hike by the US Federal Reserve would continue to affect the value of the peso against the US dollar. Gareth Leather, senior Asia economist of think tank Capital Economics, said in its latest Emerging Asia Economic Focus that the main risks to the Philippine economy are political in nature. Leather noted that the main risks are centered on the uncertain political situation following the election of Duterte as president. “Although Duterte initially helped to calm investor nerves by promising to continue with the economic policies of his respected predecessor, the situation has worsened in recent weeks,” he said. He cited threats to shoot suspected drug smugglers without trial and the recent imposition of a state of lawlessness granting the military powers to help in police operations. “With Duterte in charge, it is hard to rule out a sudden shift in policy or a disruption of the political stability that has characterized the last six years. Either would cause sentiment to sour and growth to weaken,” he said. BSP chief allays fear But Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. allayed investors’ fears on the impact of the bombing in Davao City and the declaration of a state of national emergency. “There has been no negative reaction as far as the foreign exchange market is concerned,” Tetangco told reporters on the sidelines of the Philippine Investment Forum organized by Euromoney. He explained the peso has stood its ground, strengthening against the US dollar by 10 cen-
tavos last Monday and traded within a narrow range yesterday. In the equities market, the BSP chief said there has been no major pull out of funds from the Philippine Stock Exchange. “There’s been no sell off or major negative impact. I think what we would need is to explain better what the objectives of the policies of government are,” he added. According to him, it is important for authorities to inform investors about the objectives of the Duterte administration. “There are of course very important objectives that the government is trying to pursue. And this has to be communicated well to the public. So we can avoid any possible misunderstanding and basically avoid lack of information that can lead to a different picture of what the government is trying to do,” he added. Tetangco said monetary authorities are in touch with their counterparts abroad to apprise them about the developments, particularly the peace and order situation in the Philippines. “We’ve been talking to our counterparts. I think they also want to look at what will happen next which is normal… Markets always try to look forward. And see where the opportunities lie and react accordingly,” he said. “As I have said so far, it (state of national emergency) hasn’t affected market sentiment. I think the objective is to really improve peace and order and security in the country, which are really good objectives. Thats going to be positive for investment in the longer term,” he added. The BSP chief also said the Philippines remains an attractive investment destination amid the positive GDP growth for the past 70 consecutive quarters. “I believe the Philippine economy continues to offer a convincing case for investment and sustained growth. I say this with confidence because the Philippines has a good solid track record,” he said.
by Roel
PaReño Philstar.com
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa expressed optimism that law enforcers would meet the six-month timeline of President Duterte of achieving victory in the war against illegal drugs. Dela Rosa said the police campaign in the past two months had resulted in the surrender of more than 670,000 drug addicts. He said the PNP’s campaign target is to cover the reported 1.8 million users of illegal drugs nationwide. “Based on the pacing of the campaign it is achievable. Pero sigurista ako, kaya (But I want to be sure) I’m just worried we will be running out of time,” he said. Dela Rosa, who was here yesterday as guest of the 115th Police Service Anniversary held at the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO), said he made sure that one of his objectives in going around police headquarters in the country is to encourage the
Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald Dela Rosa said the police campaign in the past two months had resulted in the surrender of more than 670,000 drug addicts. He said the PNP’s campaign target is to cover the reported 1.8 million users of illegal drugs nationwide.
police to work hard and hit its target in the drug campaign. “I talk with the regional directors to double their time, triple their time so we can clean this country of the menace of illegal drugs,” Dela Rosa said. He said illegal gambling would be next target for another six
months after the war on illegal drugs. Dela Rosa said while illegal gambling appeared to be moderate, they would not allow it to proliferate. The PNP chief also warned police officers to stay away from illegal gambling lords.
China confirms vessels on Scarborough Shoal MANILA — The Chinese Embassy in Manila on Wednesday confirmed that Chinese ships and fishing boats are in the waters around the Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal, called Huangyan Dao in Mandarin. “The Chinese side has maintained the presence of a number of coast guard vessels for law enforcement patrols. There are also some Chinese fishing boats around that area,” the embassy said. “The situation has not changed. There are no dredging or building activities there,” it added. The Chinese embassy also denied reports that the Chinese ambassador has met with the Philippines’ defense chief to explain the sightings. “Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana quoted Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua as saying that the ‘vessels are transfering sand from one area to another. The Chinese Embassy would like to clarify that Ambassador Zhao has not yet had the honor to meet
with His Honorable Defense Secretary Lorenzana, and the media must have misquoted him,” the embassy said. The statement came following the Philippine government’s release of surveillance pictures of Chinese coast guard ships and barges around Scarborough just hours before the Chinese Premier Li Keqiang attended the regional summit. with Southeast Asian leaders in Laos. Lorenzana said the situation is “very worrisome” if it were the start of reclamation activity. “That area is ours. Once they seize an island, we can no longer recover it,” he said. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said that China hadn’t done anything to alter the circumstances in the waters surrounding the shoal. “What I can tell you is that the situation in waters near Huangyan Island remains unchanged and China hasn’t made any new moves,” Hua said in Beijing, using
the shoal’s Chinese name. “We should be highly alert against the mischief-making intentions of people who spread such groundless information in such situations.” Asked how disturbed the Philippines was by the presence of the Chinese ships, Duterte’s spokesman Ernesto Abella told a news conference: “Enough to announce it.” The Association of Southeast Asian Nations met with Li and his aides. The South China Sea dispute was tackled at the closeddoor meeting with some of the leaders, including Duterte, who reiterated calls for the conflicts to be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said. He quoted the Chinese premier as saying that there was now a “positive direction” in Beijing’s relations with ASEAN and that the disputes should not affect overall relations. (Camille Diola with reports from the Associated Press)
A
SEPTEMBER 9-15, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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Features
OpiniOn
Sharp-tongued
U.S. President Barack Obama has described the Philippines as America’s oldest ally in Asia, a relationship bound by friendship and mutual respect. This may not hold true for his Philippine counterpart because even before leaving for his first official foreign travel, President Rodrigo Duterte has managed to cause an international stir with a “son of a b*itch” comment that many media said was direct toward Obama. Duterte warned the American president not to question his ways over extrajudicial killings and human rights violations in the Philippines, which have been gaining scrutiny over the past months. “I do not respond to anybody but to the people of the Republic of the Philippines,” the Philippine president said. The two presidents were set to have a rendezvous at the sidelines of the ongoing Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Laos. However, the bilateral meeting was called off by the U.S., saying that this may not be the right time for the leaders to have a dialogue. “Clearly, he’s a colorful guy,” Obama said. “What I’ve instructed my team to do is talk to their Philippine counterparts to find out is this in fact a time where we can have some constructive, productive conversations.” The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) instantly went to damage control. It said that Duterte “continues to value the Philippines’ ties with the United States despite his profanitylaced remarks against” the U.S. president. In a statement, the DFA said the Philippines and the U.S. “share common goals in their pursuit of the war against drugs, terrorists, crime and poverty. President Duterte explained that the press reports that President Obama would ‘lecture’ him on extrajudicial killings led to his strong
comments, which in turn elicited concern. He regrets that his remarks to the press have caused much controversy.” It added that “while asserting the intent to chart an independent foreign policy and promote closer ties with all nations, he expressed his deep regard and affinity for President Obama and for the enduring partnership between our nations.” Before deciding to throw expletives to Obama, perhaps Duterte needs constant reminders that being the President means embarking on business meetings with other foreign leaders to address global challenges and ensure stability for their people. He may also need to be reminded that for decades, the United States has maintained strong bilateral relations with the Philippines, based on a number of factors including robust domestic support for international security, joint strategic goals in the Asia Pacific, a mutual commitment to democratic values, and historical ties. There are currently 300,000 American citizens living in the Philippines and millions of Filipinos in the U.S. This is one of the most enduring aspects of the US-PH partnership, the binding and personal ties between people. These bring political, economic, and strategic benefits to both Filipinos and Americans. This relationship is bound by democratic values and moral responsibility to ensure peace and security not just for their own people, but for every citizen of the world. This bond will only further flourish if both countries continue to commit on the same goals. (AJPress)
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
Do you agree with Pres. Obama’s decision to cancel the bilateral meeting after Duterte’s insults and profanity? “PUTANG ina mumurahin kita diyan sa forum na iyan…(Son of a whore, I’ll curse you at that forum).” These are just some of the toxic words spewed by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte as a warning to U.S. President Barack Obama, when asked in a press meeting what he would do if Obama questions him about the extrajudicial killings and human rights violations in his war against drugs. His own words on the eve of his flight to Laos for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit include: “Who does he think he is? I am no American puppet. I am the president of a sovereign country and I am not answerable to anyone except the Filipino people” Duterte’s statements have been the subject of news headlines and commentaries all over the world. The recent comments add to the profanities he unleashed against Pope Francis and
the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines The Fil-Am and his statement that the mayor (Duterte) Perspective should have been the first to rape this beautiful Australian missionary who was abducted, raped and killed in his Gel SantoS-ReloS territory. “I have seen some of those colorful statements in the past, so clearly he is a colorful guy, ” President Obama said in a news conference on Monday. He asked his team to evaluate if pushing through with the bilateral meeting with Duterte would be productive and constructive, considering the statements Duterte just made against him. “Fighting narco-trafficking is tough, but we will always assert the need to have due process,” the U.S. president added. Obama eventually canceled the meet-
ing Monday afternoon and decided to meet with the president of South Korea instead. As a result, Philippine stocks stumbled, with international investors expressing concern about putting their money in Philippine
market. Duterte issued a response to the media through his surrogates, which stated: “While the immediate cause was my strong comments to certain press questions that elicited concern and distress, we also regret it came across as a personal attack on the U.S. President. Our primary intention is to chart an independent foreign policy while promoting closer ties with all nations, especially the U.S. with which we have had a long-standing partnership.”
We look forward to ironing out differences arising out of national priorities and perceptions, and working in mutually responsible ways for both countries.” Duterte’s statement also said the meeting between the United States and the Philippines has been mutually agreed upon to be moved to a later date. CNN reported that in his speech last Monday, Duterte blamed the United States for causing the unrest on the southern Philippines island of Mindanao. “As a matter of fact, we inherited this problem from the United States,” Duterte said. “Why? Because they invaded this country and made us their subjugated people. Everybody has a terrible record of extrajudicial killing. Why make an issue about fighting crime?” CNN further discussed that Duterte was referring to the U.S.’ history as a
colonial power in the Philippines, and specifically to one infamous massacre in the southern Philippines -- the 1906 Battle of Bud Dajo -- in which hundreds of Filipinos, including women and children, were killed. “How many died? Six hundred,” Duterte said Monday. “If (Obama) can answer that question and give the apology, I will answer him.” President Obama has maintained, “I always want to make sure if I’m having a meeting that it’s productive and we’re getting something done.” The cancellation of the scheduled meeting just indicates that he deemed Duterte would not be able to make that happen. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.
Duterte and Trump: A comparison
Introspective
tony KatiGbaK THE US elections are drawing near and the fervor is reaching a fever pitch similar to the one the Philippines experienced earlier this year. As the election draws near I can’t help but look at the current president of the Philippines and compare him to the would-be president of one of the most powerful countries in the world. This isn’t the first time similarities have been made. After all, both leaders have very colorful personalities and tend to say whatever’s on their mind without actually thinking first. On the outside though they are nothing alike. Donald Trump is a businessman who has been on the hot seat as of late because of his never-ending attack on minorities while showing very little knowledge or appreciation of the complexities of politics. He has no experience in the political arena
and, instead, plans to leverage his knowledge of business to turn America “great again.” He constantly contradicts himself and has been known to say so many questionable things that TV networks have begun to “fact-check” his speeches in real time just to be able to discern what is real from what is fiction. President Duterte, on the other hand, is a political savvy lawyer. As the mayor of Davao for decades and a trained man of the law, Duterte is hardly the political outsider his image makes him out to be. People discussed him as the politician who was not embroiled in the usual corruption that mars Philippine politics, but the fact remains that he has been in the arena for years and knows how to navigate it. I’ve said that I think he is quite a brilliant tactician and how he ran his campaign and got elected by the widest majority of Filipino voters in history goes to show that President Duterte knows how to play the game, as it were. If politics were like
“Game of Thrones,” President Duterte knew just what to do to emerge victorious. Not that I think he is disingenuous, in fact, quite the opposite. He is as real as they get. However, he did see a landscape that practically assured him victory and he went for it. Filipinos have been ripe for change for a while now and many of them saw the president as their way of achieving that change they so longed for. That is why he is so popular and why his fan base is so rabid. It is made up of hardworking Filipinos who are frustrated at not seeing any changes or improvements in their daily lives. It’s no secret that frustration breeds contempt and after years and years of the same type of leaders and the same type of politics, Filipinos have had enough. And they feel that the President understands them and sympathizes with them. I believe he does too. He has always made it clear that his goal is to help those most in need. In a way, a lot of similar feel-
ings are happening in America right now as well. That is perhaps why a candidate as glaringly unqualified in politics as Trump has somehow made it as far as he has. The reason his message of “Make America Great Again” is so strong in certain places in the United States is that so many Americans are not happy with the way America is now. The same type of divisiveness is happening there as it did here and who knows what type of result that will bring come Election Day. Personally, I do feel that Duterte and Trump are very different people. However there are similarities as well that we can’t deny. Both of these well-known figures wield a large amount of power and influence and both of them have been known to shoot from the hip and say things they may not have really meant. They are easily taken out of context and they are cannon fodder for the media because every time one story dies down these men are right there ready to provide an-
other. Not to mention, both of them lack a sense of diplomacy. That comes with the territory of unbridled machismo and strength I would suppose but it simply does not belong in the political arena. After all, politics, by the very definition of the principle is being able to work with others towards a better future. As we’ve all said many times, we don’t live isolated from the rest of the world anymore and international relations is very important in the way we live our lives. This is true for every country. Unless we want to be like North Korea where no one is allowed to know what is happening. Who wants to live like that? It’s terrifying because someone is always on the brink of pushing a button and starting a war. And a country like North Korea, with nuclear capabilities and a very temperamental dictator, is always poised to begin that type of war that no one can win. We can only hope and pray that that does not happen. So again, no one country
should be isolated from the rest of the world. After all, what happens around the world affects us all now and we’re all in this together. While I admire President Duterte’s passion for improving the lives of all Filipinos, I truly hope he will be more careful about what he says and how he treats the international community. We all need to work together to achieve success. Hopefully, President Obama cancelling his planned meeting with President Duterte is not going to be something that becomes common when it comes to foreign dignitaries. I believe that at his core, President Duterte is not like Donald Trump. But he has to understand when to pull back and when to be careful when it comes to voicing his opinion. No one is telling him to back down and cower in fear, but just to be respectful of his peers in the political arena. Only then can he become a true international statesman. I believe it’s possible, and I hope it happens sooner rather than later. (Philstar.com)
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Arroyo: ‘Freedom is healthy’ by LLanesca
T. PanTi
Manilatimes.net
FORMER President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo faced reporters for the first time on Monday, Sept. 5 and said being freed from detention has been good for her health. The former leader, one of the new deputy speakers of the House, was asked how she was doing since the Supreme Court ordered the dismissal of a plunder charge filed against her, and her freedom, in July. “Freedom is always very healthy. But, I don’t know for sure until I have my check up two weeks from now,” Arroyo told reporters in her first news conference in the House of Representatives since she was placed on hospital arrest in November 2011. The Pampanga lawmaker is set to leave for Munich, Germany on September 20 together with her husband, lawyer Jose Miguel Arroyo, for a health checkup. The Arroyo couple will visit Paris, France and Hong Kong after Germany. De Lima probe The former President weighed in on the looming House probe on the proliferation of illegal drugs in the New Bilibid Prison under the tenure of former Justice secretary Leila de Lima, now a senator. “I am very confident that due process is going to be pursued, unlike the time when I was being persecuted,” Arroyo said, referring to the previous Aquino administration’s filing of elec-
toral sabotage, plunder and graft charges against her. The cases have been dismissed, save for the graft charge involving the botched $329-million National Broadband Project still pending before the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court. De Lima served as the Justice secretary of the Aquino administration and was crucial in preventing Arroyo from leaving the country to seek treatment for her problematic spine abroad back in November 2011. ‘Duterte a stronger leader’ Arroyo also said President Rodrigo Duterte was the stronger leader compared with her. She threw her support behind President Duterte’s declaration of a State of Lawless Violence in the aftermath of the Davao explosion last Friday that killed 14 people and left dozens injured. The declaration allows the President to call out the military to help police suppress lawless violence. “I did not experience them [security forces]being abusive, and I don’t think they will abuse it now. Besides, President Duterte is a much stronger leader than I am. If I could handle them [security forces]very well, he can handle them so much better,” Arroyo, who was President from 2001 to 2010, told reporters. Arroyo herself declared a State of Lawless Violence in Davao City in April 2003 because of the twin bombings at the Davao International Airport and Sasa Wharf that killed 38 people and wounded 100 others. She also declared Martial law in Maguindanao in November
Pampanga Rep. Gloria MacapagalArroyo
2009 in the aftermath of the Maguindanao massacre that killed 57 journalists. “I was doing the same thing during my time [as President]. It is the right thing to do. If the threat is national [in scope], then it is right that the President issue such. When I had problems in Mindanao, I would ask Mayor Duterte to handle it for me and he handled it very well. I’m sure he will handle it just as well, if not better, for himself,” Arroyo added. Duterte had served as Arroyo’s adviser on peace and order as well as drug and kidnapping problems. “President Duterte knows all the lessons because he was helping me a lot during my time. When there is a state of lawlessness, I always call upon him. He knows my experience. He knows all the lessons,” Arroyo said.
Four PH universities in world ranking by ReiceLene Joy ignacio Manilatimes.net
STATE-RUN University of the Philippines rose to the top 400 of the 13th edition of the annual university ranking compiled by British company Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), leading three other Philippine education institutions. UP ranked 374th in the 20162017 listing, a significant improvement from last year when the state university ranked within the 401-410 range. QS said this was based on UP’s rise in three measures, namely academic reputation, faculty/student ratio, and international faculty ratio.
The Jesuit-run Ateneo de Manila University stayed at the 501550 range, while De La Salle University of the Brothers of Christian Schools and the Dominican-run Pontifical University of Santo Tomas (UST) stayed at 701+. QS said the Ateneo was the only Filipino university that improved its research impact, measured using QS’ citations per faculty metric. La Salle, meanwhile, was the only Filipino university that improved its ranking in employer reputation. It also has the “most impactful researchers, as measured using citations per faculty.”
UST, Asia’s oldest university, entered the published rankings this year, QS said. QS uses six performance indicators to assess universities’ rankings. These are academic reputation, 40 percent; employer reputation, 10 percent; studentto-faculty ratio, 20 percent; citations per faculty, 20 percent; international faculty ratio, 5 percent; and international student ratio, 5 percent. American universities led the world ranking, with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology at No. 1, followed by Stanford University and Harvard University.
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 9-15, 2016
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PH confirms 6th Zika virus case 45-year-old iloilo woman first this year
by Lorenzo
Antonio MendozA Manilatimes.net
HEALTH authorities on Monday, Sept. 5 announced that a woman from Iloilo had tested positive for the mosquito-borne Zika virus that causes microcephaly in newborns, the first such case recorded this year. This brought to six the total number of cases registered in the country since 2012, Department of Health (DOH) Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag told reporters in a news conference. Tayag described the first Zika case for the year as a 45-yearold female, married and not pregnant, from Iloilo province. The virus most likely came from local transmission because the woman had no history of travel to any affected country in the past two weeks, Tayag said. Tayag said the woman reported to doctors on August
31, and was found to have skin rashes and joint pains, but without fever. She was confined in a local hospital where urine and blood samples were collected. The 45-year-old tested positive for Zika in both urine and blood samples. The tests were done at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine In Muntinlupa. The woman is at home recovering from a mild illness. Tayag said the DOH had sent a team to do follow-up tests in the area where the woman is residing. Dr. Gundo Weiler, World Health Organization country representative, lauded the Philippines for its ability to control the virus, noting that out of 37 Western Pacific countries, the Philippines has reported only six cases since 2012. Zika is primarily transmitted
through the bite of the Aedes mosquito. Sexual transmission has been reported in other countries like Brazil and Singapore. The Zika virus results in mild illness but has caused neurologic defects (microcephaly) in babies born of infected mothers. The DOH has coordinated with the local officials to intensify mosquito control efforts including targeted fogging. Tayag reminded everyone to be “good citizens” by avoiding mosquito bites and cleaning up mosquito-breeding areas. Tayag said people, especially pregnant women, with skin rashes and with symptoms like fever, red eyes and joint pains should consult any government health facility immediately. “The key to Zika prevention is heightened vigilance and stronger community efforts of every household,” Tayag said.
Ramos source of Duterte drug list by cAtherine
S. vALente Manilatimes.net
NOW it can be told. The list of officials allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade was given by former president Fidel Ramos to President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte made the admission during his speech before the Filipino community in Laos Monday, Sept. 5.
Duterte, in Laos for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit, said Ramos showed him the drug list when the latter was trying to convince him to run for president. “He was strongly urging me to run. He said only you can stop this. Then he showed me a list of generals into drugs,” he said. The President said the list is so thick and he has not finished
FLOWERS FOR THE DEAD. Families, friends and relatives of victims of the blast at a night market in Davao City last September 2, 2016 offer prayers and flowers at the scene of the bombing, which left 14 people and 68 others injured. President Duterte has declared a “state of lawlessness” and put the city on “lockdown”
Samar woman on Mother Teresa: She smelled of flowers by eveLyn
MAcAirAn Philstar.com
MANILA - She smelled of flowers. This was how a woman from Calbayog, Samar described validating all the names. Blessed Mother Teresa when she In July, Duterte named five po- met the would-be saint almost 30 lice generals allegedly protecting years ago. drug syndicates. Mother Teresa will be declared a He also named the country’s saint Sunday in a ceremony at the big-time drug lords, as well as Vatican to be led by Pope Francis. local officials who are also in the Judith Ignacio-Whuillas told drug trade. CBCPNews she was just 11 years Duterte also released a matrix old when Mother Teresa visited showing Sen. Leila De Lima on Calbayog from Dec. 31, 1986 to top of the drug trade at the na- January 1987 to experience the tional penitentiary. Filipinos’ simple way of life. Mother Teresa will be declared a saint Sunday in a ceremony at the Vatican to be led by Pope Francis.
“I can’t forget her scent. It was not from perfume. It was a scent similar to flowers. And her hands, though wrinkled, were very soft,” Whuillas said, adding she and her family picked up Mother Teresa at the airport. The Nobel laureate nun visited the house of Whuillas’ grandmother, the late Generosa Bernardo, located on Rosales Boulevard. “My cousins and I were peeping as Mother Teresa and lola were talking. We would go up and down the stairs, play and run around while they were in a room, discussing something,” she said. The Bernardos served Mother Teresa and her companions – Msgr. Basiling Rosales and a nun from a local office of the Missionary of Charity – the famous special halo-halo and pancit palabok from the family-owned restaurant. Ma. Perpetua Socorro IgnacioCabatan, who was 14 years old at that time, recalled their grandmother gave Mother Teresa an envelope containing P 5,000 as donation. Generosa was an active parishioner and a supporter of the Missionaries of Charity. Pedro Panoy, child facilitator at the St. Expeditus ECCD Center, said that before Mother Teresa left Calbayog she visited and prayed over a dying child in Barangay Oquendo. The child later recovered. Mother Teresa died on Sept. 5, 1997 at the age of 87. She was
beatified by the late pope, St. John Paul II, on Oct. 19, 2003, just six years after her death, waiving the three years waiting period. Born Agnes Bojaxhiu, Mother Teresa had two major apostolates: to care for the poor and attend to the sick. Former Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Archbishop Oscar Cruz first met Mother Teresa in 1976, when she visited the country to put up her Missionaries of Charity. “She is a saint period because her life was an example. She lived a simple life,” Cruz said. As an auxiliary bishop of Manila in 1976, Cruz was asked by then Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin to pick up Mother Teresa from the airport and bring her to a parish in Tayuman, where a room in the rectory was available for her. Cruz said although he was familiar with Mother Teresa, it was the first time he met her face-to-face. She was wearing her white sari with blue trimmings and a pair of sandals. Her clothes looked worn out but they were clean. In her right arm was a bundle wrapped in a piece of cloth measuring about a square foot. “I asked her, ‘Where’s your luggage so I could carry it?’ She replied, ‘This is my luggage,’ pointing to the bundle in her arm. I did not smile but deep inside I was amazed by her simplicity,” Cruz said.
Sen. Grace Poe
Poe to PNP: Probe child deaths in drug war by dAnA
M. SioSon
AJPress
SENATOR Grace Poe asked Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa on Tuesday, September 6, to investigate the deaths of children related to the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign. “The situation where innocent children become victims of the drug war is deplorable and must be addressed without delay,” Poe said, as reported by Rappler. The senator cited the death of Althea Fhem Barbon, a fouryear-old girl from Guihulngan, Negros Oriental. Her father, Aldrick, was a suspected shabu seller. He died after being shot by policemen near their home on Larena Street in Barangay Poblacion during a police operation on August 30. Althea, who was riding a motorcycle driven by his father, was taken to a hospital in Dumaguete City but died two days later. Poe expressed her full support for the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign but said “the prime duty of the police force is
to serve and protect the people.” The senator cited the Republic Act 8551 or the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998. It mandates the PNP-Internal Affairs Service (IAS) to automatically investigate incidents of death, serious physical injury or violation of human rights committed in the conduct of a police operation. “The PNP-IAS must ensure that scalawags in the police service are held accountable, more so in cases where children and minors are senselessly caught in the crossfire. Their vulnerability must not be trampled upon,” Poe said. She also called for the appointment of a civilian head for the IAS. The senator also asked for updates regarding the investigation on the death of Danica Mae Garcia, five-year-old, from Dagupan City, Pangasinan. She was hit with a bullet intended for her grandfather, a drug suspect. “The protection of life is one of the essentials for the enjoyment of the blessings of democracy,” Poe added.
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Journal
Your Immigration Solution NaNcy Miller LISTENING to a judge order you removed from the United States is devastating. But the full impact comes later, after the shock wears off. Once the removal order becomes final, Immigration & Customs Enforcement “ICE” can take steps to execute the order. It may issue a “bag and baggage” letter instructing the noncitizen to report to ICE ready for their deportation. Or, ICE agents may appear at the individual’s residence or place of employment and take the person into custody. However, there is hope for individuals facing removal. In the event that a non-citizen has an enforceable order of removal, execution of the order may be suspended through a request for an administrative stay with the Enforcement and Removal Operation “ERO” office of ICE. The administrative stay allows the person who has been ordered removed to remain in the U.S for a specified period of time without fear of deportation. Non-citizens already have an automatic stay of removal during the time allowed to file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals and while that appeal is pending. However, filing a petition for review in Federal court does not provide an automatic stay. Moreover, where appeal rights have been exhausted and no other legal recourse exists, an administrative stay of removal may be the only option. The administrative stay request is filed with the ERO office having jurisdiction over where the alien lives. It is granted in the ERO officer’s exercise of discretion. So, the basis must be persuasive and strongly documented. It must show that the non-citizen’s (and family members) equities, hardship and ties to this country merit a stay of removal. Any and all negative issues (including immigration and criminal violations) must be disclosed. How
Staying removal after a final order of deportation that is disclosed may not make, but could certainly break, an application. Additionally, the possibility of future relief under the Immigration and Nationality Act is relevant in establishing that removal from this country should be stayed. A non-citizen with a pending motion to reopen a prior removal order may successfully convince ERO to administratively stay his removal until a decision is entered by a court. An alien with an approved family petition whose priority date is not yet current may also warrant this discretionary relief pending eligibility to adjust. All relevant factors specific to the applicant’s case are considered by the officer during the adjudication of the stay. The absence of information that should have been included will also be considered by the officer. The alien must appear in person at the ERO office in order to fee-in and file the application. Next, the non-citizen may need to appear before an ERO officer before a decision is made on the administrative stay of removal. If the stay is approved the ERO officer will place the non-citizen under an order of supervision. The order of supervision will require the non-citizen to periodically appear before ERO. Due to the discretionary nature of the stay, any missed appointments may result in the denial or revocation of the stay of removal. The stay of removal and order of supervision allow the alien to apply for work authorization. In fact, most ERO officers encourage the alien to apply for employment authorization because they want to see that the alien is a contributing member of society (working with authorization and paying taxes). With that employment authorization, comes the right to apply for a social security card and a driver’s license.
Aside from the obvious reason to apply in order to avoid removal, there are many other good reasons to seek this protection. During the pendency of the stay, the law may change to the alien’s benefit. Additionally, the non-citizen may become eligible for the relief for which they were waiting. Where the alien or family member has a serious medical condition, a stay of removal in certain cases may be the difference between life and death. Maintaining family unity, thus allowing spouses, parents and children to remain intact, is priceless. The decision to file for an administrative stay is not one that should be made lightly or without all the relevant information. Clearly the decision should only be made after a thorough consultation with an immigration lawyer who is well-versed in deportation-related matters. Once the decision is made to apply, a well-prepared and comprehensive application for stay of removal filed by an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney is crucial. Facing imminent execution of a removal order is terrifying but it may not be hopeless. An administrative stay of removal may allow the noncitizen to remain in this country despite the removal order. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 795-8009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
by Richmond
S. meRcuRio
Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — The Authority of Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) is looking to increase public transportation options in the freeport as it expects the number of workers to surge in line with the strong investment interest it has been receiving..
AFAB said it is working closely with the local government of Mariveles and Bataan to convince transportation firms to start operations in the industrial town. “The initiative to provide better transportation assistance program is part of the AFAB’s commitment to build a worldclass freeport that meets all the needs and demands of locators,”
it said. AFAB deputy administrator for operations Emmanuel Pineda said they expect the current number of workers to double in the next six years as more investors are already preparing to start their operations in the freeport. Pineda said the goal is also to double the number of public util-
u PAGE CJ3
PH ranks 5th in ASEAN for US firms’ expansion by Richmond
S. meRcuRio
Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — US companies remain optimistic about business prospects in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with the Philippines their fifth most preferred destination for business expansion in the region this year. The annual ASEAN Business Outlook Survey released by the US Chamber of Commerce and the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore showed 27 percent of senior executives rep-
resenting US companies in all 10 ASEAN countries cited the country as a priority market for future business expansion. Respondents across the region saw Vietnam (40 percent), Indonesia (38 percent), Myanmar (34 percent), and Thailand (30 percent) the priority markets for expansion. Philippines and Malaysia each got 27 percent of the US executives’ vote. Compared with last year’s outcome, the Philippines saw one of the biggest gains in business expansion interest from 20 percent
to 27 percent. The greatest improvement for expansion came from Vietnam (31 percent to 40 percent) while Indonesia (31 percent to 38 percent) also got a similar hike in interest as that of the Philippines. Of the US investors surveyed that has operations in the Philippines, 19 percent are planning to expand in the country while 55 percent expect their workforce to increase this year. The country received low satisfaction ratings in lack of corruption (11 percent), infrastruc-
u PAGE CJ3
CJ
Community Journal
SEPTEMBER 9-15, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
When your green card expires: What next?
The CTV Files Atty. LiLLi B. BAcuLi WHAT happens when my green card expires? Lawful Permanent Resident status is not affected by the expiration of the Form I-551, or the “green card.” A person does not lose his or her status as a lawful permanent resident of the United States by the mere fact that their green card has expired. However, individuals will need to replace their cards to have valid evidence of their status. It is important to have valid evidence of status for employment and travel purposes, and to obtain other benefits incident to LPR status. A quick note about Conditional Permanent Resident Status Conditional Permanent Residents in possession of an expired green card must continue to have evidence confirming that their conditional resident status has been extended. The following only applies to renewal green card applicants with an expiring or expired 10-year green card. Help – my green card ex-
pired while outside of the United States! Can I still enter the U.S.? Yes. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Officers encountering an arriving lawful permanent resident in possession of an expired 10-year permanent resident card are to advise the returning lawful permanent resident of the need to renew the card and furnish him or her with an application to replace the permanent resident card. No further action must be taken by the CBP. CBP officers are not authorized to cut, clip, or otherwise mutilate a person’s green card in any manner. Must I fill out and sign the Application to replace my green card on the spot at the airport? No. Officers will advise an arriving alien at all air ports of entries of the requirement to renew their green card. These arriving lawful permanent residents shall also be instructed that the Application to renew their green card may be processed at the airport at the time of arrival only, if the LPR is in possession of the requisite fee.
If the LPR is not in possession of the appropriate fee, requests a fee waiver, or elects to submit the application at a later date, then he or she shall be given the application form and advised to file at the appropriate USCIS office. I am outside of the United States and the airline will not let me on the plane to return home to the United States. What do I do? Carriers should permit boarding to any bona fide lawful permanent resident in possession of an expired green card with a 10-year expiration date, if the expiration date on the card is the only reason that the LPR would otherwise not be boarded. My Naturalization application is still pending and my green card expired. What now? Applicants for Naturalization six months or more prior to the expiration date of their green card, and who have not yet received a decision on the Naturalization application, do not have to apply for the renewal of their
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Bringing moxie back
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond
“We now live in a cynical age when no one, it seems, can be trusted. Even those institutions we used to hold sacred and sacrosanct are suspect.”
Monette AdevA MAgLAyA (Part 1 of 2)
DO you sometimes have a nagging feeling that despite what the media paints as a rosy picture of the current state of affairs we are supposed to be having, things are not what they seem to be? There is reason to believe that unemployment numbers are a work of fiction rather than a reflection of the current situation. Indicators of economic and social malaise are still very strong. Several years ago in England, there were 35,000 applicants for 1,000 job openings for the makers of Range Rover. You probably don’t have to look far to see those among us still struggling to find jobs. Many have simply given up and have become part of a statistic that is not factored in when a comprehensive picture of the current state of affairs is presented supposedly by those so called “experts” on the economy. Others are holding down two full-time jobs or even multiple u PAGE CJ3 part time jobs just to put food on the table. Companies can afford to be picky these days. Some even have the gall to fire entire departments, either to cut on costs or to greedily improve their bottom line, leaving just one or two personnel to handle the work of entire departments knowing, in a calculated way, the ones “lucky” enough to retain their jobs won’t balk and put up a fight knowing how difficult it is to find employment in an economy as tough as this. Some soulless companies are gleefully aware that in a shrinking job market, they hold all the aces. I know of one who had to pull out a hat trick in a fiercely competitive job market. Being out of a job for 2 years, she knew she had to stand out in order to be considered for the job among a sea of job applicants. Aware that her advance age, the influx of new graduates willing to take far less and her years of experience would be regarded as a deterrent to landing a job with fair compensation and benefits, she first became a volunteer without pay for 3 months. She showed the company what she is capable of. That got her the job. In this economy, it is a game of the survival of the fittest. Throw in a dash of creativity and a ton of tenacity and persistence. If figures are to be believed, one out of every 6 Americans is still out of a job. The real figure of those without a job is close to 94 million. Every economic and
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political pundit is focusing on the need to create jobs that will bring the country back on track. Even Bill Gates didn’t mince his prognosis of our sick economy. Our economy has been on life-support even with a series of stimulus packages in 2009. You have a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach that those at the helm have absolutely no idea besides throwing money on how to fix a broken system. If nothing changes soon, the debt burden of $20 plus TRILLION will be passed on to the second and third generations. What a sordid legacy to pass on to the next generations! Frankly, I think it will take a sea change of heart and spirit not only in the leadership, from top to bottom in the structure of government, but more importantly, among the majority of ordinary Americans to revive this country back to the glory days. It’s time to bring moxie back. But first, let’s do a brief autopsy of this moribund mess we are in by asking ourselves a few questions and searching for the answers. What can you say of a country that has outsourced so much of the production of practically all its needs to China, India and every part of the world, all in the name of improving profits among soulless multinational companies? What can you say of a country that has forgotten that work itself and the creation of quality products that satisfy the creative impulse of human beings are, in it of itself, a blessing to the people who create them? To create something from concept to actualization is ennobling. To be rewarded for creating something that people find useful and that lasts, has been the secret of what was once a strong US economy. We have taken advantage of the low wages and traded on the appalling work conditions of other countries and the lower costs of overseas production but in the process, created a serious imbalance and a lingering malaise in the psyche of the American workforce. Uncontrolled outsourcing has taken away tens of thousands of jobs, which in turn, decimated what was once a strong American middle class. Perhaps a group of economists and business people with political clout, goofed big time along the way. Whether by plain stupidity or by willful intent to destroy, our political and economic
leaders in the last 30 years, may have placed us on track towards self-destruction with suicidal policies. You want to finger point and put the blame on the myopic architects of this economic disaster. More than likely, they could be regarded as a band of conspirators, so-called economic experts and politicians, who sold out the well-being of the country with their economic policies which resulted in the conditions that we are seeing and suffering from these days. If these were Medieval Times, they would be flogged or be found hanging from their toes or boiled in oil in the public square for treason and economic sabotage of the highest order. But for the unemployed who has lost his home and has trouble putting food on his table, none of the finger pointing and the brilliant but empty rhetoric matters at all. In a situation such as what we have where a significant percentage of the working class is without a source of income, the times call for a crash course on survival where each man must learn to fend for himself. We now live in a cynical age when no one, it seems, can be trusted. Even those institutions we used to hold sacred and sacrosanct are suspect. We assume everyone is a con artist that lies and lies and lies until proven otherwise. We have now learned to steer clear of strangers, screen our calls, trash suspicious emails asking us about account information or be wary of just about anything new. We even refuse to answer the door. In the media and online, we have seen a parade of scandals: from political scumbags, depraved men of the cloth, big-time con artists to scandal-plagued, shameless celebrities who trade on their image to push depraved agendas useful only to the elite class they have created for themselves. We seem to be breathing their toxic fumes when they self-destruct into flames. Honor, decency, civility and respect are in short supply these days. And we heave a heavy sigh and shake our heads in disbelief. (To be continued) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
Business News
BSP reiterates: ‘Bank secrecy law must be relaxed’ by Mayvelin
U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net
THE central bank on Monday, Sept. 5, said the involvement of a local bank and a remittance firm in the $81-million Bangladesh Bank heist could have been prevented if monetary authorities had supervisory powers over money service businesses (MSB) and were allowed by law to look into bank accounts. “Earlier Mr. Senator you asked if the famous case could have been prevented. I think there would have been a better chance of detecting that at an early stage if the BSP [Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas] had two things: One, supervisory powers over money service businesses; and two, the authority to look into the accounts,” BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. told Senator Franklin Drilon during a joint meeting of the committees on banks and ways and means. In February, hackers supposedly stole $81 million from a Bangladesh Bank account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The funds were the depos-
ited into fictitious accounts at the Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) Jupiter Street branch n Makati City. In August, the central bank imposed a P1-billion fine on RCBC for non-compliance with banking laws and regulations in connection with the $81M Bangladesh Bank Cyber Heist. Remittance firm Philrem Service Corp., the company which transferred the funds from RCBC
to casinos and junket operators was sued by the Bureau of Internal Revenue before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for non-payment of P35.61 million of taxes. The BSP also canceled Philrem’s certificate of registration for failure to comply with antimoney laundering rules. Tetangco said the central bank is firm on its proposal to relax the
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Philippines marks gains in internet metrics by loUella
D. DesiDerio Philstar.com
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MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has shown improvements in terms of download and upload speeds amid investments being made by telcos to provide better services to customers, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) said. Citing data from internet metrics provider Ookla’s speedtest. net, NTC deputy commissioner Edgardo Cabarios said in a telephone interview last Tuesday, Sept. 6, the Philippines has made gains in terms of internet speed as it ranked 11th in terms of aver- Citing data from internet metrics provider Ookla’s speedtest.net, NTC deputy commissioner age download speed and upload Edgardo Cabarios said in a telephone interview last Tuesday, Sept. 6, the Philippines has made speed globally this year. gains in terms of internet speed as it ranked 11th in terms of average download speed and
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upload speed globally this year.
Philstar file photo
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Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ HILLARY Clinton and the Democrats push for comprehensive immigration reform, including a pathway to legalization for the approximate 11 million undocumented immigrants in the US. Of course, I’m fully in favor of comprehensive immigration reform. But as a starting point, could Hillary at least eliminate some of the harshest immigration laws ever enacted, which were signed into law by her husband, Bill? Some of Pres. Obama’s recent executive actions were brought about (or designed) to neutralize (or get around) some of the laws signed by Bill Clinton. In 1996, Bill signed into law the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRAIRA). That law brought about some of the harshest and most severe changes to immigration law, the effects of which are still felt today-- after 20 years. As a refresher course, or to enlighten people, here are some of the changes brought about by IIRAIRA: • Eliminating children as a basis for a person being granted a fraud waiver. Before IIRAIRA, if a person had a US citizen or LPR child, they were automatically granted a fraud waiver. Now, it does not matter how much pain
and suffering a child has. Hardship on a child is not a factor and does not matter in connection with a waiver. • Adding “extreme hardship” as a requirement for a fraud waiver. Before IIRAIRA, there was no requirement of demonstrating extreme hardship on certain qualifying relatives. If a person had a parent, spouse, or child who was a citizen or green card holder, or if the fraud occurred more than 10 years ago, the fraud waiver was automatically approved. No showing of extreme hardship was required. Now, people must demonstrate extreme hardship on a parent or spouse who is a citizen or immigrant, and fraud stays on your record for life. • Hardship on the alien does not matter. Before IIRAIRA, hardship on the alien himself (or his children) could be considered. After Bill signed IIRAIRA, hardship on the alien is no longer considered. • Creation of the 3/10 year bar! Before IIRAIRA, there was no 3/10 year bar. If a person was not eligible to adjust status in the US, the person simply departed the US and was processed for his immigrant visa in his home country, and then returned to the U.S. without any issues. With Bill’s 3/10 year bar, those same people were suddenly “trapped” in the US. They could not get a
green card in the US, and if they departed the US, they could not return for 3 or 10 years, unless granted a waiver from abroad. Just recently, Pres. Obama’s executive actions for provisional waiver and expanded provisional waiver were an attempt to get around Bill’s 3/10 year bar. • Creating a lifetime ban if a person claims to be a citizen to their employer. Before Bill’s IIRAIRA, false claims to US citizenship was NOT a lifetime ban. It was regular fraud, with a fraud waiver available. Moreover, “false claim to citizenship” applied only if the person claimed to be a citizen to a GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL. IIRAIRA made it a permanent/lifetime ban if a person claimed to be a citizen even to his employer. No waiver is available. • No judicial review of USCIS “discretionary” decisions. If USCIS denies a person’s petition, application, or waiver, “as a matter of discretion”, the person cannot seek court review of that discretionary decision/denial. Before IIRAIRA, it was possible to have court oversight and review of USCIS discretionary denials. Some discretionary decisions\denials include whether a person has demonstrated “extreme hardship” in connection with fraud waivers, or other forms of relief that required USCIS discretion. Many people
Business News
High-end condo vacancy rates drop by Catherine
talavera ManilaTimes.net
STEADY growth in Filipinos’ income combined with increased pre-leasing activity reversed a trend of growing vacancy rates in luxury condominiums in the established business districts Makati and Bonifacio Global City in the second quarter of the year, according to a real estate services firm. In its Philippine Property Digest for Q2, Jones Lang Lasalle Philippines noted that vacancy rates for this segment declined to 6.3 percent from the 7.5 percent posted in the previous quarter. “Demand drivers in the luxury market include high income Filipino individuals, expatriate employees of the O&O (outsourcing and offshoring) sector and multinational companies,” JLL said. As of the end of the second quarter, total existing stock of mid-range to high-end residential condominium units was estimated at 246,500, according to the report. Aside from higher income of Filipinos, another factor driving the demand for the Metro Manila residential market during the period was the strong pre-leasing activity. “Pre-leasing activity showed signs of improvement from last quarter, as more developments were launched in 2Q16,” JLL said. The real estate services firm noted, however, that annual new project launches have been declining over the past several
This is an improvement as the Philippines has been a laggard when it comes to average internet speed rankings in previous years. Cabarios said the data from Ookla is consistent with the findings of other reports which showed the Philippines is making gains when it comes to internet speed. The United Nations (UN) EGovernment Survey 2016 on E-Government Development Index (EGDI) which provides scores by looking at dimensions of e-government such as scope and quality of online services, status of the development of telecommunication infrastructure and human capital index, showed the Philippines’ ranking improved to 71st from 95th, previously. The Information Communications Technology (ICT) Index
PROVISIONAL WAIVER FOR CREWMEN DISPELS THE FEAR IN GOING BACK TO MANILA FOR VISA PROCESSING — ON AN ENCORE EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Cindy was a crewman who jumped ship and had been a TNT for more than 10 years. After seeing a CITIZEN PINOY episode about another crewman who also jumped ship, Cindy and US citizen husband, Tom decided to consult with leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel about her chances of legalizing. Through Atty. Gurfinkel’s help, Cindy’s Provisional Waiver was approved. She went back to the Philippines, was processed for her immigrant visa at the US Embassy in Manila, and returned to the US less than a month later as a legal permanent resident. Watch an encore episode on Provisional Waivers, which could benefit: (a) crewmen without 245(i): (b) those who entered the US without inspection(EWI) without 245(i); or (c) K-1 fiancees who did not marry their US petitioner, on “Citizen Pinoy” – this Sunday, Sept. 11 at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.
who were turned down by USCIS and sought court assistance, find their cases are dismissed for “lack of jurisdiction”, as the denial involved a case of USCIS exercising “discretion”. As stated above, I am in favor of comprehensive immigration reform. I am also glad Hillary and the Democrats are “pro-immigrants”. I also understand that comprehensive immigration reform may be a long and arduous
process. So, could Hillary at least attempt to neutralize some of the laws signed by Bill? *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not
Calendar of Events across
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 attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)
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42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia
years. Only the mid-range and high-end segment saw an increase in licenses to sell (LTS) from the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) in the first half of the year, while all other segments declined compared with H1 2015. Among the residential projects launched during the quarter were One Antonio, The Ellis and The Gentry in the Makati Central Business district and Pines Peak Tower 2 in Mandaluyong City. Meanwhile, rental rates in BGC and Makati commanded the highest prices at P710 to P1,750 per square meter per month for high-end condominium units. Similarly, capital values in the two established business districts also increased during the second quarter of 2016. “Average capital values of luxury condominiums in Makati CBD and BGC in 2Q16 increased
approximately 1.1 percent quarter-on-quarter,” JLL said, noting that capital values for the segment were increasing faster than rental rates. Capital values for high-end developments in Makati amounted to P165,000 to P255,000 per square meter, while BGC commanded capital values of P145,000 to P188,000 per square meter. The reported noted than more than 125,000 units are expected to come online in the Metro Manila residential market from the third quarter of 2016 until 2020, which is seen to put pressure on price growth in the market. “The residential condominium market is projected to maintain its upward trend in the next few quarters, although the upcoming volume of supply may put downward pressure on price growth,” JLL concluded. n
2015 of UN specialized agency for ICT ITU also showed the Philippines rose to the 98th spot from 105th earlier. Cabarios said even the measurements conducted by the NTC showed improvements in upload and download speeds. Based on measurements conducted for the period of Aug.17 to 31 using speed test agents, PLDT Inc. was able to deliver 81 percent of its advertised download speed, while Globe Telecom Inc. delivered 73 percent, Bayantel provided 74 percent and SKY had 72 percent. “The improvements are indications the infrastructure is improving and costs are going down,” Cabarios said. He said the investments being made by telcos to expand existing capacity by adding cell sites and fiber are also driving the improvements. PLDT, which initially allocat-
ed P43 billion worth of capital expenditures for this year, has raised the amount to P48 billion for the utilization of new frequencies it gained access to after acquiring half of San Miguel Corp.’s telco assets in May. Globe which has earmarked $750 million capex this year, may increase the budget by $10 million in the last two quarters of the year, for projects to provide customers a better internet experience. Cabarios said that while private companies are investing to improve the infrastructure for services, the government would have to make the investments in locations commercial telcos would not be able to reach. “We are preparing a national broadband plan which will identify where government will invest in,” he said, adding the plan would be released before the end of the year. n
Philippines marks gains in internet…
PH ranks 5th in ASEAN for… Bataan Freeport to…
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Will Hillary eliminate the harsh immigration laws signed by Bill?
Immigration Corner
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 9-15, 2016
ture and tax structure (13 percent each), ease of moving products through customs (15 percent), free movement of goods within the region (17 percent), and availability of raw materials (19 percent). Meanwhile, the country got high satisfaction ratings in sentiment towards the US (77 percent), availability of low cost labor (72 percent), and availability of trained personnel (68 percent). US investors in the country also gave very positive approval ratings to the Aquino administration, with 45 percent of the respondents saying it was very effective and 38 percent saying it was effective in boosting business confidence and promoting investment in the country. As far as bullishness in the new administration is concerned, two percent said they were very optimistic that it can sustain reforms of the previous administration, while 43 percent said they are optimistic. n
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ity vehicles (PUVs) and buses running from Mariveles to the city of Balanga. “Aside from housing programs for the workers, we are also looking into developing a reliable transport system for the FAB with the help of the Mariveles and Bataan government,” Pineda said. “We have to prepare for the continuous expansion of the FAB. This will also help the FAB lure more investors and convince employees, not only in Bataan but also in Central Luzon, to work in the freeport,” he added. The Freeport Area of Bataan is regarded as one of the fashion manufacturing hubs of the country as it possesses a cluster of companies producing high-end brands of garments, apparel, shoes and accessories. n
United Bicolandia Los Angeles (UBLA) invites everyone, Bicolanos, devotees and friends to come and celebrate the 42nd annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Patroness of the Bicol Region. The festivities will start on Sept. 9, with the translacion at 5pm at the Immaculate of Mary Church (4954 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90029. A nightly novena Mass follows from Sept. 9 to Sept. 16 at 6 PM except on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 3:30 PM and Sunday, Sept. 11, at 2;30 PM and culminates on Saturday, Sept. 17, with the ninth day novena at 8am, foot & fluvial procession at 9 AM, and a Concelebrated Mass at 10 am at Lincoln Park, 3501 Valley Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90031. Main celebrant will be HE Most Rev Arturo Bastes, Bishop of Sorsogon. For details, please call Lanie Berrei (818) 281-3169 or Gene Leano (818) 439-6896.
SEPTEMBER 10
Arts & Craft: a food and beer event in Los Angeles To kick off the 25th Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture (FPAC), we’re celebrating with two of our favorite things: food and beer! Arts & Craft will take place at the Pico House in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring food by The Park’s Finest, Stoked California BBQ, and SALO Series. Music will be provided by Gingee. Aside from the gastronomic offerings, an intimate art exhibit will also showcase the last 25 years of FPAC. Pico House is located at 424 North Main Street, Los Angeles, CA. Tickets are $40 / person and can be purchased at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arts-craft-a-food-andbeer-event-tickets-27360749739.
17th annual Asian Small Business Expo
The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. Admission to the expo is FREE! It will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Almansor Court Banquet & Conference Center, 700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801. To register, please visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/annual-asiansmall-business-expo-tickets-23824155691. Walk-ins are also welcome on the day of the expo. For more information, please visit www.apisbp.org.
SEPTEMBER 16
CAC to celebrate Town Fiesta The Cabatuan Association of California will celebrate their Annual Town Fiesta in honor of their Patron Saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino on September 10, 2016 with a mass at 11:00 am at Nati Matitu-Mercado’s residence - 15255 Knapp St. North Hills, CA, 91343. Please invite four friends and relatives. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa. For other inquiries, please call Esoy Tavarro, president, (714) 797-0073; Sally Bilbao, adviser (951) 8785589; Boboy Mosqueda, adviser (714) 519-8973; or Nati Matitu-Mercado, adviser at (818) 894-5142.
SEPTEMBER 17
Lorenzo Ruiz: A musical play On Saturday, September 17, the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community will present a musical play entitled Lorenzo Ruiz: the First Filipino Saint. This play will star Mat Ranillo III, a Filipino TV, film and stage actor. Purchase your tickets today, for a donation of $20 for one event or $25 for both events. Seats are limited so get your tickets early. For ticket sales, please contact St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish office at (909) 595-9545. St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Parish Community is located at 747 Meadowpass Rd., Walnut, California 91789.
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
When your green card expires: What…
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green card. If they wish to obtain a new card, they are advised to apply for a renewal green card and pay the requisite filing fee. Applicants who applied for Naturalization within the sixmonth period preceding the expiration date on their green card are advised that they still must file for their renewal green card and pay the requisite filing fee. Applicants who indicate that they wish to file for Naturalization instead of applying for a renewal green card are advised that this is not an option. They must file for their renewal green card and pay the requisite fee, regardless of whether
they intend to file a Naturalization application. No two cases are alike, and with immigration laws constantly evolving, individuals must carefully consider their particular situation in relation to immigration laws before filing for any benefit or application, such as an application to renew their green card or an application for Naturalization. Those who might be eligible for any immigration benefit or program should consult with an experienced, licensed immigration attorney to obtain an in-depth consultation about the law, what the law requires, and how to proceed. In addition, people should be wary of online
tools that offer immigration help or notarios who are not licensed to practice law. *** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 4958088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys. com. For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com.
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People & Events Get ready San Rafael - Disaster Preparedness Class Disaster preparedness class
SEPTEMBER is National Preparedness Month! Marin County residents face a multitude of hazards including: earthquakes, wildfires, flooding, and landslides. To address these public safety risks, a simple and free two-hour emergency preparedness program is being offered to all households in Marin County through the Get Ready Household Disaster Preparedness Pro-
gram. The benefits of taking the class: Prepared citizens means reduced injuries and illnesses due to a disaster A reduction to the over-burdened emergency first responders A reduction to the over-burdened hospitals and urgent care centers A stronger community: people helping each other Gain the necessary information to pro-
tect you and your family during a disaster. Come and take the class on Thursday September 15, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the City Council Chambers, 1400 5th Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901 Please register at: oes@cityofsanrafael.org For more info contact John Bruckbauer at oes@cityofsanrafael.org or (415) 458-5002 n
California coastal cleanup day is September 17
COASTAL Cleanup Day_sm.jpg In honor of the California Coastal Cleanup Day, the City of Fremont will be hosting creek cleanup events at 10 different locations on Saturday, September 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please join families, friends, coworkers, scout troops, school groups, service clubs, and individuals as they come together to celebrate and share their appreciation of California’s fabulous coast and waterways. If you are interested in participating, please pre-register online to guarantee a spot. Please note the City does not allow anyone under the age of 6 to participate in this event. For more information please contact the Coastal Cleanup Day Coordinator by calling (510) 4944570 or email environment@fremont.gov. n
BSP reiterates: ‘Bank secrecy law…
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bank secrecy law to strengthen the central bank’s regulatory powers. “This means that the BSP is asking for authority from Congress to be able to look into bank accounts … when in the course of bank examination … when there is reasonable ground to believe that fraud, unlawful activity or irregularity has been committed or is being committed … and being able to look into bank accounts would establish that such is really the case,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the Senate meeting. Tetangco said the Philippines is only one of the two countries that still has a bank secrecy law in place, the other being Lebanon. “The concern that I raised was really about the Philippines being one of the few countries with bank secrecy laws and that the regulator is not exempted from the bank secrecy law. The concern is really that since many countries have already lifted their bank secrecy regulations,
AUTO SALES
EMPLOYMENT
the Philippines might attract dirty money or laundered money because of the existence of strict bank secrecy laws here. That was the concern,” he said. “Based on our experience, when fraud is committed, the proceeds of the crime would normally be deposited in a bank account. Once that happens, the BSP can no longer pursue its investigation because it cannot look into those bank accounts,” he added. He said the central bank’s main concern is to be able to strengthen its authority to enforce it regulatory functions by being able to look into an account when an irregularity has been committed or is being committed. BSP Deputy Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. said the central bank is also seeking to expand its supervision on money service business (MSB) like pawnshops and remittance firms through the proposed amendments to its Charter. Unlike banks, money service businesses are not actually under formal supervision by the BSP.
“But they are under us for one narrow purpose – for compliance of anti-money laundering law. Because of that, they have to register with the BSP. So it is some kind of oversight, but not as complete supervision,” he said. The most that the BSP can do to a non-compliant MSB is cancel its registration, but the central bank cannot impose penalties like monetary fines because those things come with the powers of supervision, Espenilla noted. “That is really why in the proposed BSP Charter amendments, we are seeking formalization of a supervision authority similar to that of banks. Although, of course, the intensity is going to be different because banks take deposits, they do not. So it has to be also proportionate,” he said. An expanded central bank supervision on MSBs can come about via the BSP charter amendment and putting MSBs under BSP supervision under the proposed amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering Act, he added. n
EMPLOYMENT
San Mateo County celebrates National Recovery Month Community support essential for recovery from substance use, mental health issues
SAN MATEO, CA — Now in its 27th year, Recovery Month celebrates local residents who have reclaimed their lives through recovery from substance use and mental health issues and honors the healthcare providers who make recovery possible. Recovery Month raises awareness that recovery is possible and that the community plays an important role in helping people with substance use and/or mental health conditions to live healthy and rewarding lives. This year’s theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery: Our Families, Our Stories, Our Recovery,” highlights the value of peer support by educating, mentoring, and helping others. It encourages people in recovery and their support systems to be change agents in their communities, and encourages everyone to spread the word about preventing, treating, and recovering from substance use and mental health conditions. Events throughout September will bring together more than two dozen community organizations, local businesses, San Mateo County Health System’s Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, and over 500 people in the recovery community. All events are open to the public and free unless noted otherwise below. September 1-30 Recovery Art Show 400 County Center, Caldwell Memorial Art Gallery, Redwood City September 6, 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Kickoff Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Bridges Program, 680 Warren Street, Redwood City
Speakers: · Stephen Kaplan, Director, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services · Judge Richard Livermore, San Mateo County Superior Court · John Keene, Chief Probation Officer, San Mateo County The Philomena Walk of Hope, 8:45 a.m. March from Bridges Program, 680 Warren Street to 400 County Center Proclamation, 9 a.m. Hall of Justice Board Chambers, 400 County Center, Redwood City Speakers: · Stephen Kaplan, Director, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services · Barbara Correia, Clinical Supervisor, El Centro de Libertad · Laura Moore, family member of a person in recovery · Janice Fernandez, local resident in recovery Learn and Connect Resource Fair, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Courtyard, 400 County Center, Redwood City September 20, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Annual Recovery Happens
Picnic Central Park, 50 E 5th Street, San Mateo Resource fair, activities, raffle prizes, proclamation reading, and more Speakers: · Carlos Morales, Interim Director, Correctional Health Services · Mario Bandes, Program Director, HealthRight 360 · Rev. Mary Frazier, Bread of Life Worship Center September 13, 12:15 – 1:30 p.m. Suicide Prevention Among Older Adult Provider Training San Mateo County Health System, 225 W. 37th Ave, Room 100, San Mateo For providers, community partners and community members serving older adults September 24, 5 p.m. – midnight Film Screening: The Anonymous People Recovery Dance (tickets $5) Free At Last, 1796 Bay Road, East Palo Alto For more information, visit smchealth.org/RecoveryMonth and facebook.com/RecoveryHappensInSanMateoCounty. n
Volunteer to adopt a tree DALY City recently received at $25,000 grant from Cities of Service to support “Project Green Space,” an effort to enhance our resilience to climate change through tree planting and rain garden installations. Increasing the number of drought-tolerant trees and vegetation in the city will lessen stormwater run-off, clean our air, and improve our community’s livability.
If you would like to help plant trees at the start of the rainy season this fall, we’d love to hear from you! Do you know of sites that would benefit from plantings in your neighborhood or around town? Please tell us! For more information, contact Sustainability Coordinator, Stephen Stolte, at sstolte@dalycity.org or (650) 991-8126, or visit www.dalycity. org/ProjectGreenSpace. n
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WORLD’S LARGEST SERVICED RESIDENCE OWNER-OPERATOR INKS PARTNERSHIP WITH CEBUANO FIRM
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Friday, September 9, 2016
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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 9, 2016
Peninsula Family service-senior Peer counseling
Making a big difference in the lives of older adults by
AS much as many people would like to “age gracefully,” many people who are not within the range of being a “senior citizen” do not understand that aging is more than wrinkles and adding years. For those of us who are blessed to still have our parents with us, we usually see the emotions they go through as they age. Navigating the advancing years can be challenging for many senior citizens, even for those with a strong support network. Now, imagine older adults who have to cross those same waters alone, without friends or family to turn to for support. For the Senior Peer Counseling (SPC) program, it is important for them to ensure that no one faces the challenges of aging alone. Founded in 1987 by Della
Malou liwanag-bledsoe / AJPress
McGrath, the SPC program was initially part of the San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services. In 1989, La Esperenza Vive was added to serve the Spanish-speaking population. By 2009, the program was contracted to Peninsula Family Service and was expanded to three additional target populations — Chinese, Filipino and LGBTQ older adults. The program is funded by the Mental Health Services Act, which was passed in 2004. During its 25th anniversary, McGrath, a licensed clinical social worker expressed, “It is certainly wonderful to think that I had a hand in starting something that blossomed with program specialties for Filipino, Chinese, Latino and LGBT communities. Carry on the good noble work. You will receive the reward of feeling
you contributed to the community.” About the program The SPC program a oneon-one service provided by trained volunteers who listen carefully, offer confidential emotional support, guidance and empathy to older adults facing challenges such as loneliness, depression, grief, change in health or isolation from family and friends — sometimes caused by a cultural or language barrier — and life changes. Apart from the emotional support, the program also offers access to community services. Meetings with the volunteer counselor can be at the client’s home or in a place where both client and volunteer feel comfortable and have privacy. The information shared will remain confidential. Today, the program has
330 clients, 71 of whom are Filipinos. This includes group counseling, or the “Kapihan sa Lincoln,” which was formed in 2013 to support older adults who gather at the Lincoln Community Center to pick up their Second Harvest bags during Wednesday mornings. Everyone is welcome at the free group counseling, said SPC Filipino coordinator Ofie Albrecht. “These Filipinos have grown to like each other, empowering them to express themselves about our culture – its beauty and ugliness – the additional stress of experiencing culture shock, living arrangements with family members, their health and loss of a loved one. We share about the Philippines, and we tell each other wholesome jokes.” Now on its 27th year, they’ve had a 153 percent
increase in the number of clients they have served since Peninsula Family Service took over management in 2008. “There’s a stigma — whatever the culture is — among older adults who seek counseling,” said Albrecht. “It’s a challenge for people to admit they could use some service.” The program serves only those 44 years old and older, because they are the ones about to retire, are prone to sickness and are in their twilight years. “Filipinos may have family problems or experience culture shock, especially those still unfamiliar with life and on-goings in the U.S.,” explained Albrecht then added, “Some are simply unable to share with family members their worries in life, both here and in the Philippines.” Being a volunteer Aside from the clients, the program is successful because of its volunteer counselors. These volunteers are trained older adults who share similar experience, values, wisdom and culture. Graduates have reported that they have learned a lot for themselves that they are able to relate not only to clients, but to their families and friends as well. Currently, SPC has a total of 108 volunteer counselors.
The number changes every year as some volunteers drop out and others begin. They continue to recruit new volunteers twice a year during Spring and Fall. Albrecht explained that listening is the one important and simplest aspect of the counseling program. “Of course, we need to learn other topics related to aging and its attributes and peculiarities so that we can assist the clients. We are not licensed, like those that have degrees and experience in social work. We are allies and guides to those who need emotional support and guidance,” she said. Being a volunteer also takes a lot of dedication, as the training is 36 hours, twice a week for six weeks. Training topics include communication and active listening skills, counseling, working with diverse cultures, social and family relationships, understanding social isolation, grief and loss, and common health issues of older adults, among others. How to be a volunteer: Fall training starts Oct. 4 on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at the offices of the Peninsula Family Service. Call Ofelia Carpio Albrecht at (650) 403-4300 Ext 4363 or Geri Continued on Page SF5
entertainment SF3
Behind Pokwang’s fun and endearing personality The ‘King of Talk’ answers questions The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – September 9, 2016
as a movie actress and won Bert Marcelo Lifetime Achievement By Monet Lu Award twice. She was also nominated for RoBIN Williams (rest his Best female TV host (“Wowowsoul) once said, “Comedy can ee”), Best Comedy Actress be a cathartic way to deal with (“That’s My Doc), 60th FAMAS personal trauma.” Awards – Best Actress (“A Some people second that Mother’s Story”) and Golden notion with quotes like ‘happy Screen TV Awards – outstandpeople are truly the saddest ing Supporting Actress in a people.’ I don’t necessarily Drama Program. equate my jovial personality to Pokwang She currently stars in the Nicolas was also the one my frustrations (or depressing newest JaDine TV series as who encouraged Pokwang to moments) but it makes sense Agnes Nicolas, mother of Ali to say that the happiest people join ABS-CBN’s search for a (played by newbie JC Sannew comedian, “Clown In A I know and admire are usu- ally tos and JaDine’s newest love the ones who had the toughest Million.” She won the contest, triangle). and the rest is history. lives – and most of them can Pokwang’s career soars Success stories: past, pres- as her love life blossoms. She truly make people laugh. ent and future Case in point, and one of is currently in a very happy Marietta Subong, or betmy favorite comediennes of all relationship with her American ter known by her stage name time: Pokwang. I’ve been seeboyfriend of over a year. Looks ing a lot of her lately in movies, Pokwang, was born August 27, like the future is looking good 1970, in Iloilo City, Philippines. TV shows and newspapers. for this funny and charming lady. She is comedian, actress, TV Pokwang is one of the finest A love told host, singer, impersonator and comedy performers of her Lee o’ Brien and Pokwang salon co-owner. generation. I know how hard first met when they worked on In an interview, she recalls she works as a single mother to the TFC movie “Edsa Woolhow she and her siblings had her daughter Mae. Although worth,” which was released in we never had the chance to talk to watch TV by the window of January 2014. The two admittheir neighbor’s house because ted they’re in a relationship in personally, it is my pleasure to they didn’t have their own. She February. write about the stories that lie has come a long way from dobehind this amazing woman. In an interview on “Tonight ing that to having her own TV A story about discovery with Boy Abunda,” Pokwang As most discovered talents, – and actually watching herself admitted that she is ready to on it. Pokwang did not expect anytie the knot with o’Brien. The “I still remember when I was smitten man returned to the one to take notice of her wit and banter on that fateful night a kid. Me and my sisters (sic) Philippines and decided to stay used to watch TV like this. And there for good – and of course, at a comedy bar in Cubao. But when my neighbor closes their she is grateful up to this day for the ‘love of his life.’ windows, no more TV for us so that comedian and “Your Face Such a funny and inspiring we will go home and imagine Sounds Familiar” contestant person this woman is. I had what was the end of the show Eric Nicolas recognized her fun knowing and telling what that we are currently watching. is behind her innate ability to talent. Ha-ha, now it is very different, According to Nicolas, he entertain and draw laughter I have my own TV inside my discovered Pokwang when in many ways. I hope that she room. Thank you Lord! I feel so continues to be as delightful as she came in as a guest at the blessed!” said comedy bar. “Sa comedy she has always been. *** After winning in a reality bar kasi, comedian ako doon, Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning talent show, Pokwang subsepumasok sila [Pokwang] at celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of quently appeared in dramas gumimik sila as guests... Aba, Monet Salon salons across Southern California and sitcoms. She also received pumanhik ito, nakainom na, and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is a number of awards such as nandoon din ‘yung mga mayknown as an all-around artiste who produces Best Comedy Actress award ari tapos banter, banter, ayaw sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as from the Philippine Movie Press unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet magpatalo. So bumaba ako, Club for her portrayal in the sabi ko, ‘Boss, okay ito wala is also the founder of the revolutionary allsitcom “Aalog-Alog” and the tayong babae, pwede nating natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your Best Female Comedian award ipasok.’ Noong time na ‘yon, solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him from People’s Choice Awards. wala siyang (Pokwang) trabaat monetsalon@aol.com She gained recognition as well ho,” he said.
by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net
To say that top television host Boy Abunda has come a long way is an understatement. Dubbed as the “King of Talk” for his riveting questions and intelligent discourses, he continues to lord over the TV genre even as most showbiz talk shows have gone off the air in the last few years. For the information of millennials, especially, it should be noted that the 60-year-old is more than just a television host. Abunda—or “Tito Boy” as the younger generation has come to know him—is publicist and talent manager as well. Twenty-five years ago, he built his company Backroom Inc. as a talent management and public relations firm, which continues to handle the careers of some of the most famous artists in the entertainment industry. Among them are Ai-Ai de las Alas, Gretchen Barretto, Dawn Zulueta, Mariel Rodriguez, Drew Arellano and Bianca Gonzalez, to name a few. It therefore came a surprise during his launch as brand ambassador for Swiss watch brand TechnoMarine’s Cruise Medusa model, that one of the most prominent talent management companies in showbiz is soon folding up. “Backroom is slowly closing down. I’ve turned over its operations to my most senior employees [over the last so many years], and with this, I’ll be absorbing some of them while others will go to Asian Artist Agency.” Asian Artist Agency, or AAA, according to Abunda, is a platform in creating Asian superstars. Like Backroom, it will act as a unified talent and booking agency, but the difference is that it will cross borders to manage and market the careers of Asian artists, including directors, writers, performers, singers, athletes, actor to different parts of the world. As part of the group organiz-
Kris Aquino and Boy Abunda
ing AAA, Abunda related, “We are hoping to launch by 2017, but now what we are doing is sort of the infrastructure of the organization. In Asian Artist Agency, we are not buyers, since we don’t have much resources for that. Right now, we visit different countries, and we’re building relationships because we want to find out what their respective showbiz industries really need. Be it model or a singer, we will look for who you want. It’s sort of like a trading model, except what we bring to them are talents.” Asked what will happen to Backroom’s current roster of talents, he assured, “We will maintain our Philippine Asian Artists, including Indonesian Asian Artists. I feel really excited. What will be the result? I don’t know too but what I know is that will try our best to do this.” Celebrity drug tests Despite the demanding schedule his latest undertaking demands, Abunda said that he continues to actively manage the careers of his current brood of artists. This despite the breaks he took to focus on his aging mother’s health, and when he suffered a severe liver condition in 2014. “My mother is stable now, and I’m in the pink of health, so I’m continuously managing my artists. I can’t leave this part of my career because I like doing it, and because it’s part of my life,” he explained. “Unknown to most, I spend
a lot of my time in handling the contracts of Kris Aquino, Dawn Zulueta, Gretchen Barretto, AiAi delas Alas, Bianca Gonzalez, Drew Arellano, and Mariel Rodriguez,” he enumerated. With his manager’s hat on, Abunda took questions on his views about the drug issue in relation to celebrities, he said, “Celebrities should be treated as any regular citizen. If different sectors of society are being investigated for drugs or taking drug test, celebrities should be and should do too. “Sometimes, showbiz complains, why are we being singled out? But why should we expect special treatment? So if drug tests need to be done among artists, why not. That is my stand.” Abunda continued, “In my opinion, what is done to one sector should be applicable to all. Let us not impose anything that we cannot impose on ourselves. So if the fight is fair, it has to be fair. What I just hope is that there will be vetting process when it comes to investigations—they should be carefully done. “I haven’t been able to talk to my talents about undergoing drug testing but for sure if they really require it, I will tell them to do it—including the talents from Asian Artist Agency,” he vowed. Checking ‘Krissy’ Pinned down by the press, Abunda was unable to escape Continued on Page SF4
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celebrityworld
The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 9, 2016
celebrity world By Ferdie Villar One of the most soughtafter tandem of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo returns to the big screen via their romantic movie, “Barcelona: A Love Untold,” under Star Cinema. The popularity of Daniel and Kathryn has never been in question, especially with movie hits like “She’s Dating the Gangster” and “Crazy Beautiful You.” They also just finished doing the successful remake of the teleserye, “Pangako Sa ‘Yo.” Their first movie with director Olivia M. Lamasan, Kathryn and Daniel shared their experiences while shooting the film in where, else — Barcelona, Spain. “Siguro naging masaya ‘yung nakilala din namin ang Pilipino doon. ‘Yung mga nagtratrabaho doon na na-
kasama namin na tumulong sa amin pagtapos ng mga eksena namin sa Barcelona (“We think one of the happy moments was getting to know the Filipinos there. Those who are working there and were with us to help finish the scenes we were filming in Barcelona),” said both Daniel and Kathryn during the press conference for the movie. Daniel added that “direk Olivia” or “Inang,” has taught them to be humble and grounded. “...Kasi walang star-star, hindi pwede star doon,” he said. Kathryn mentioned that direk Olivia pushed them to bring all their acting skills to the test in the movie. “Parang wala, dito talaga all out talaga. Pag si Inang talaga, parang hindi namin alam kung paano niya napapalabas yung emotion na kailangan
Suresh and Rema Vasa of Cupertino, California dropped by London on their way to the British Isles for a 2-week cruise. In photo background is the famous London Bridge with Rema’s sister and brother-in-law (L-R) Leon Lim, Marylou Lim, Rema and Suresh Vasa.
Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo returns to the big screen via ‘Barcelona’
The tandem of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo returns to the big screen via the movie “Barcelona: A Love Untold” which was shot in Barcelona, Spain.
Actress Kathryn Bernardo plays the role of Mia, in her newest movie with Star Cinema, “Barcelona: A Love Untold,” opposite Daniel Padilla.
Joining Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla in “Barcelona: A Love Untold” is actress Aiko Melendez, under the direction of Olivia Lamasan.
Joining the cast of “Barcelona: A Love Untold” is actor Joey “Tsong” Marquez.
kahit gaano ka simple or gaano ka bigat yung scene (It was really all out. If it’s Inang, we don’t know how she does it, how she manages to take out the emotion that you need no matter how simple or complex the scene is), she said. “Barcelona” is a story
that revolves around the love between ely (Daniel) and Mia (Kathryn), but also taps on the live of overseas Filipino workers. Joining Kathryn and Daniel in the movie are Aiko Melendez, Ana Capri, Joshua Garcia, Joey Marquez, Liza
Actor Daniel Padilla plays the character of Ely, in his newest movie with Star Cinema, “Barcelona: A Love Untold,” opposite Kathryn Bernardo.
California State Commissioner Rey Benitez Satorre is shown in photo presenting the Hall of Fame plaque to three-time Club Royale King Ferdie Syquia de Villar held at last year’s gala dinner and dance event at the Grand Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel. Also in photo are Club Royal grand dame Jett Viray Navarro and board member Nelly Cojuangco Vida de Tuazon.
Dino, Ricky Davao, and Cris Villanueva. “Barcelona” will be shown in movie theatres
on September 14. (“Barcelona” photos courtesy of Star Cinema)
JC Santos stars in a different Angel Locsin featured on kind of love triangle MTV Australia’s ‘sexiest list’ by Ricky
caldeRon ManilaTimes.net
JC Santos is backed with impressive credentials as he plays third wheel to the day’s most popular love team in James Reid and nadine Lustre, best known by their moniker JaDine. JC plays Ali, Iris’ (Lustre) best friend, who as the first week of the highly anticipated ABS-CBn teleserye “Till I Met You” will figure in a different kind of love triangle with the popular pair. JC started his career as a theater actor in UP Diliman where he studied Theater Arts. He then worked as a singer-dancer in Hong Kong Disneyland, after which he joined the talents of Universal Studios Singapore. According to JC, he returned to the Philippines because he wants to carve a career both as TV and mainstream movie actor. One distinct role he has since played which remains in our mind was as cadet commander in Aureous Solito’s “esprit de Corps,” an entry in the Cinema One Originals Festival in 2014. For his work in that film, JC earned an Urian Best Actor nomination. He was also cast in the Cinemalaya finalist, The Janitor; and the Cine Filipino entry “Sakaling Hindi Makarating.” For TV, he was part of the online series “Forever Sucks”
WITH expressive eyes and a body to die for, who would fail to notice Angel Locsin? After landing fourth on this year’s FHM’s sexiest women, Angel has secured the eighth spot on MTV Australia’s “Sexiest nationalities in the World” list. The actress joined the ranks of Victoria’s Secret Angel Adriana Lima, American Pop singer Rihanna and Colombian-American actress Sofia Vergara. Meanwhile, Angel took to Instagram to thank MTV for putting her on their list. Angel was hailed as FHM’s Sexiest Woman twice—first in 2005 and the second in 2010. (Alixandra Caole Vila/Philstar. Angel was hailed as FHM’s Sexiest Woman twice - first in 2005 and the second in 2010. com)
Janine Tugonon featured on Victoria’s Secret ad
Nadine Lustre, James Reid and JC Santos
starring Jasmine Curtis-Smith, and likewise appeared in the TV series “Flordeliza” and “Tubig At Langis.” JC said he usually gets the role of antagonist and is not a newbie to auditions, whether in movies or TV. He auditioned for the part of Ali in “Till I Met You,” and when asked to return for the second day of auditions was ready to play the role of James’s adversary. But to his surprise, he realized he was reading to play one of the leads of the show in
the Antonette Jadaone series. Admitting he cannot be happier over this biggest break in his career, JC is looking forward to more challenges in portraying Ali. Based on the first week and trailers of the show, there are hints that JC’s character is gay and in love with James’ Basti rather than nadie’s Ali. JC told ManilaTimes.et that he doesn’t mind portraying a gay character being typecast as such. He’s fine with it as long as the role is a good one.
Mariel Rodriguez to give birth in US by aRlo
custodio ManilaTimes.net
HIGH profile couple Robin Padilla and Mariel Rodriguez held a baby shower on Saturday at Le Jardin in Taguig and excitedly announced their long awaited bundle of joy is a girl.
Mariel Rodriguez and Robin Padilla proudly announce it’s a girl for them.
The party, attended by close friends was a triple celebration— the baby shower, the couple’s sixth wedding anniversary, the mom-to-be’s 32nd birthday. In a series of posts on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, the glowing Mrs. Padilla shared her excitement over the pending birth of Baby Maria Isabella in november. “We are excited but patiently waiting for your arrival Maria Isabella. Mommy and Daddy love you so much! You are loved not just by us but by everyone #BabyMozart #MariaIsabellaDePadilla,” the TV host announced on Instagram. Because of her delicate pregnacy after two miscarriages, the couple have decided that Mariel should give birth US
where her half-siblings reside. Padilla explained to ABSCBn.Com, “First, it should be known that Mariel’s pregnancy is so delicate. It’s one of the challenges she’s going through. It’s not that we’re saying we lack skills and facilities in the Philippines, the doctors here are as proficient but the technology is there, it’s immediately available. We don’t have to wait for the problem to arise before we act. It’s all there that’s why we chose the US so everything is on stand by.” He described their baby as miracle. Rodriguez also announced she is taking a break from showbiz to make sure both she and the baby are safe and healthy.
by alixandRa
caole Philstar.com
Vila
JAnIne Tugonon pushed her career far enough to be noticed by one of the most famous lingerie brands in the world, Victoria’s Secret. On Tuesday, Sept. 6, Victoria’s Secret Pink lingerie line released a new ad which included the former beauty queen playing the role of a college student. Janine, who is now based in the US and is working under MSA Models, shared the video on her social media page. Last year, Janine was featured on Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. She has also previously walked on the runways of Los Angeles and new York Fashion Week. Janine represented the Philippines in the Miss Universe pageant in 2012, but she fell short of winning the title, placing first runnerup.
Janine Tugonon is the first Filipino to be featured in Victoria’s Secret Ad.
The ‘King of Talk’ answers...
From Page SF3 talking about his best friend and talent Kris Aquino, whom The Manila Times entertainment first reported to have signed on with TAPe, Inc., a known ally of GMA network. [Showbuzz by Lhar Santiago, August 19, 2016]. Apparently kept in the dark about her decision until she had officially signed a contract, Abunda said of the surprise his “Krissy” pulled, “My relationship with her never changed. I still handle her contracts. We still talk everyday about everything and nothing. I also want to be
clear that it is not true that I quit as her manager. “What I just can’t comment on is the new relationship she entered with APT and Mr. Tony Tuviera because none of them have said anything. Kris is not talking, nor Tony. ABS-CBn is also not saying anything about the situation so why would I say anything about it now?” he explained. “I can only say that they indeed had a meeting. I’m not privy to many things, like how extensive were the discussion, the dialogue—I don’t really
know. The whole narrative will all be out as soon as they speak. I’m just really shy to speak up or say something before them because I’m just in the peripheral in this story.” Abunda further clarified that he never negotiates TV shows for Aquino in the first place. “I only represent Kris when it comes to her endorsements. Many were surprised [about her move]but it did not affect our friendship. In fact, before going to this press con, we talked on the phone, but we didn’t talk about business,” he ended.
entertainment
Jennylyn takes a break from drama
osang. Asked about the delay of Philstar.com her other project with GMA No matter how hard Jenwhich is the local version of the nylyn Mercado tries to beg off Koreanovela My Love From the from going into details regardStar, Jennylyn, tapped to play ing her rumored romance with Steffi Chon, said she is clueless Dennis Trillo, most of the quesas to when will the work exactly tions from the persistent press begin. By now, everyone knows remain connected to it. Thus, that the network hasn’t found Jennylyn has no choice but to an actor who will portray the give in, punctuating her every male lead Mateo Do. Alden short reply with a sweet smile. Richards was initially reported The Kapuso actress assures to play the part but nothing has everything is fine between her been finalized yet. and Dennis. She blurts out, “Ay, “There is a collaborative efDiyos ko po ano muna, hindi fort to find an actor for the role muna!” when asked on her like they were asking kung may reaction to Dennis’ reported gusto ba kayong ipa-audition wish to settle down. There is (for the role) pero ako naman no more explanation to that I’ll just let them decide. Tangbecause Jennylyn seems detergap ko naman kahit sinuman mined to keep some personal ang mapili.” details private. “I prefer to However, since the news keep mum about it.” came out that Jennylyn would What definitely makes be paired with Alden, the her talk kilometric are things former has become the favorite that pertain to her career and subject of bashers. She admits future plans as an actress. After to having been hurt by some renewing contract with her negative comments but never mother network GMA, Jennylyn did she try to hit her bashers Jennyln Mercado buckles down to work as host back. of the newest Kapuso celebmotion lagi (laughs). There’s no “Instead, I chose not to rity singing competition titled dull moment in the show.” check the comments anymore “Superstar Duets.” The show No wonder Jennylyn consid- or my account on Twitter,” combines laughter and music ers hosting “Superstar Duets” says Jennylyn. “Well, di naman through amusing yet impresas a breather from all the draako masyado nagtwi-Twitter sive duet performances from matic projects that she’s been pero mas pinili ko na hindi na eight celebrity contestants and getting since she won in the lang basahin kaysa sa…alam “international” singing stars. first season of the reality talent ko naman na deadma na lang Hosting, Jennylyn admits, is show “StarStruck” several years ako pero iba pa rin pag may not her cup of tea. That’s why, ago. “I find the show relaxnababasa kang negative tweets she devoted some time to host- ing because it doesn’t require di ba? So mas maganda kung ing workshops prior to the start much effort as compared to do- iwasan na lang.” of their taping. “Direk (Bert de ing drama. All I have to do here Does she think that it has Leon, the show director) is a big is talk in front of everyone and something to do with the help, inaalalayan nila ako and I laugh at the contestants’ funny clamor of fans to see Alden had a workshop with direk Floy acts. There’s no need for me to and Maine Mendoza, the other (Quintos) for me to be comfort- cry or do slapping scenes that’s half of the AlDub loveteam, able with the flow of the show why it’s quite easier.” together in a TV series? while I do a lot of talking on Since she is also a singer, “Sa ngayon kasi talagang stage.” Jennylyn is expected to maganda yung samahan nila After the first taping day, perform in one of the show’s so perhaps it would be better Jennylyn found her task enjoyepisodes. But that would kung mag-stick na lang muna able. She was able to banter certainly happen in the later sila dun,” she replies. with the audience and celebrity part since the show is focused Jennylyn is not also sure if contestants. “Everyone is fun on the contestants that include Christian Bautista has also been to work with because each — aside from Joross and Jerald considered for the role. What is contestant displays a different — Pekto Nacua, Nar Cabico, true, though, is that they will be character or style. Like si Joross Rita Daniela, Denise Barbacena, working together in Superstar (Gamboa), walang ibang giDivine Grace and osang. Duets. Christian is one of the nawa kundi mambasag (ng conWith eight celebrity conshow’s three judges. The other fidence). Jerald (Napoles) never testants: Divine Grace, Rita two are Allan K and Aicelle Sanruns out of side comments and Daniela, Jerald Napoles, Joross tos. “And we have a duet in my there is one who always agrees Gamboa, Pekto Nacua, Denise new album to be released this with Jerald parang I second the Barbacena, Nar Cabico and month,” Jennylyn says. by Bot
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 9, 2016
Glorioso
Black Eyed Peas revives ‘Where is the Love?’ by Arlo
Custodio ManilaTimes.net
WITH powerful support from Jamie Foxx, Usher, Nicole Scherzinger, Justin Timberlake, Mary J. Blige et al, the Black Eyed Peas recently released a new version of their hit “Where Is The Love?” originally an alternative hiphop group, the Black Eyed Peas’ first major hit was the 2003 single “Where Is The Love?” from their third studio album Elephunk. The song topped the charts in 13 countries, including the United Kingdom where it stayed number one for seven weeks becoming Britain’s biggest selling single that year. At that time the general feeling was the world was suffering from political and social atrocities. They subsequently changed their musical sound to pop and dance-pop music. For quite a time, members will.i.am, apl.de.ap, Taboo, and Fergie went on solo careers but for a good cause joined forces once again to revive the worldwide hit and to inspire social engagement in millenials. And with millenials as target, Black Eyed Peas enlisted numerous heavy hitters to join them on the latest rendition of “Where Is The Love?” including Jamie Foxx, Ty Dolla $ign, Mary J. Blige, Diddy, Cassie, Andra Day, The Game, Tori Kelly, V. Bozeman, Jessie J, French Montana,
will.i.am, Fergie, Taboo and apl.de.ap
DJ Khaled, Usher, Nicole Scherzinger, A$AP Rocky, Jaden Smith and Justin Timberlake who was also featured on the original. A 40-member children’s choir is likewise featured on the track. The new visual for Where Is the Love? incorporates even more people. The clip features appearances from Sandra Sterling, whose nephew Alton Sterling was killed by the police, Valerie Castile, whose son Philando Castile was also killed by law enforcement, and Dallas Police Chief David Brown. More entertainers show up here as well: Snoop Dogg, Rosario Dawson, Connie Britton, Quincy Jones, Lance Bass and others. The Black Eyed Peas discussed the reason behind the revival of “Where Is The Love?” in a short video.
“I remember when the Paris attack happened, people would say, we need ‘Where Is The Love?’ again,” will.i.am explains. “And then Belgium happened. And then Turkey, and then orlando, and then Philando, and Alton before him, and then Dallas. Everyone was calling on us, like, ‘we need that song again.’” “I hope this song inspires the millennials to go all out,” will.i.am adds. “Scream from the tallest mountain. Care like your freedom depends on it. Pay attention like that is at risk.” Sales from the new version of the track goes to the i.am. angel foundation, a non-profit founded by will.i.am with the goal of “transforming lives through education, inspiration and opportunity.”
Making a big difference in the lives... From Page SF2 Lustenberg (650) 430-4300 Ext 4389. You will be sent an application form and are called for a personal interview. All information is considered confidential. Again, clients — whatever they talk about with their counselors — remain confidential. Albrecht believes that this part is an important factor for Filipinos (as well as other clients)
because they need someone to listen to them without judgment. For more information about the Senior Peer Counseling program, please contact: ofelia Carpio Albrecht Filipino Senior Peer Counseling Coordinator (650) 403-4300 Ext 4363 oalbreacht@peninsulafamilyservice.org
Valerie Snook, LCSW Manager, Senior Peer Counseling Prorgam (650) 404-4300 Ext 4322 vsnook@peninsulafamilyservice.org You can also visit their website at www.peninsulafamilyservice.org/seniorpeercounseling/. *Special thanks to Ofie Albrecht for her assistance in this feature.
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The As ian Jour na l SF M A G A Z I NE - Septem b e r 9 , 2 0 1 6
seafood city fpfc