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FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Gov. Brown expands overtime pay for farmworkers
HUNDREDS of thousands of California’s agricultural workers are now guaranteed the same overtime pay as other workers in a historic move by Gov. Jerry Brown. On Monday, September 12, the governor signed AB 1066, which will expand overtime pay for farmworkers, a workforce that had long been denied the same overtime pay as other industries. Previously, laws prohibited paying farmworkers overtime pay unless they work more than 10 hours a day or 60 hours a week. Thanks to the passing of AB 1066, that threshold will be lowered by a half hour each year for four years starting 2019. This means that by 2022, farmworkers will be guaran-
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Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY
Duterte a ‘respecter of human rights’, Palace tells UN prosecutor, knows the limits of the power and authority of his office. “President Duterte is a respecter MANILA, Philippines — The Pal- of human rights, but he has also ace on Wednesday, Sept. 14, said been firm in saying that human that “alleged extrajudicial killings” rights cannot be used as an excuse are not a policy of the administra- to let the spread of drugs in the tion of President Rodrigo Duterte, country run rampant,” the Palace whom it said is a “respecter of hu- said. man rights.” Human rights groups have attribIn a statement, the Palace said uted a rise in drug-related deaths in that Duterte, a lawyer and former recent months to the government’s by ROSETTE
ADEL
Philstar.com
war on drugs. Duterte has repeatedly talked about killing drug dealers, drug pushers, criminals and corrupt government officials. He has also promised to defend police officers and soldiers accused of rights violations. He has said, however, that he will not tolerate abuse by security forces. “Notwithstanding the accusations hurled against him, no formal
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Imee Marcos: Please forgive my father
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Fil-Am community leaders, activists outline consequences of not voting in U.S. election
LOLIT Lledo and many other activists boycotted the 1986 snap elections that led to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos’s ouster. They refused to campaign, vote or otherwise take part in what they viewed as a rigged system. In retrospect, she said the decision not to participate was detrimental to the Philippines in the long run. Many of the people representing interests from the past regime that she had fought against eventually re-entered positions of prominence. “Because we did not participate we [activists] were left out when Cory was the presi-
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United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein at the 33rd session of the Human Rights Council. UN Photo
by LEILANIE
ADRIANO Inquirer.net
US DONATES EQUIPMENT TO PNP. Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa receives bomb suits as part of the P42-million security equipment donated by the US government last Wednesday, Sept. 7. The PNP chief led police officials in receiving the equipment from Lon Fairchild, region security officer of the US embassy, to help boost counterterrorism efforts in the country.
LAOAG CITY — Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos pled forgiveness for the “sins” of her father, the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, at the end of a threeday celebration of his 99th birthday in Batac City on Sunday, Sept. 11. “Whatever sins my father committed—he was, after all, human who made mistakes—I hope people absolve him. I hope that beyond all these issues, they would find mercy because in forgiving my father, their anger would be sated and they too would find peace,” Imee said in Filipino. She said the family had been hurt by the outrage triggered by the plan to bury Marcos at Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City. The plan was stopped by the Supreme Court, which is hearing arguments on whether Marcos deserves to be buried at the heroes’ cemetery. Imee thanked the people who supported the Marcos family all these years. “If not for you, the family would have broken down. We draw our strength, our
Philstar.com photo
PAL, Cebu Pacific ban use of Duterte to stop joint Samsung Note 7 on flights patrols in disputed sea by RUDY
by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
SANTOS
Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Local carriers banned on Tuesday, September 13, the use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 cellular phones during flights, following the lead of the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) against packing the phones into any checkedin luggage after reports emerged of the device exploding during or after charging. Flag carrier Philippine Airlines and leading low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific followed suit starting yesterday, issuing their respective advisories. “Philippine Airlines is prohibiting the charging and use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices
THE Philippines will no longer conduct naval patrols in South China Sea with foreign powers, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday, September 13. “We will not join any expedition or patrolling. I will not allow it because I do not want my country to be involved in a hostile act,” Duterte said in a speech during the 48th anniversary of the 250th Philippine Airlift Wing on board all its flights, effective at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay immediately. PAL is issuing this City. He commented that he wantdirective in line with the recall order made on these products by ed Filipino forces to only patrol Samsung Electronics Company Philippine territorial waters, or the 12 nautical miles of sea from Limited.” Findings showed that the Gal- Philippine coastlines that are u PAGE A3 considered sovereign territory
under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “We do not go into a patrol or join any other army from now because I do not want trouble,” the president pointed out. GOLDEN STATUE. Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos leads the wreath-laying ceremony at “I do not want to ride gung- the golden statue of her father, the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, in Sarrat town, ho style there with China or with his birthplace. Ev Espiritu/Inquirer Norther Luzon America. I just want to patrol our territorial waters.” Duterte also reminded China of Hague’s ruling that concluded China has no legal basis in its territorial claims in South China Sea, favoring the Philippines. “So may I remind China again: Beyond the territorial waters are the entitlements of the sea, yung napanalo natin (what we won) but it is not part of our territory. It is part of our Exclusive Economic
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LA County gun confiscation program inspired by slain Filipino postal worker
Los Angeles on Thursday, September 8. Officers of the Los Angeles ASSAULT type rifles, hand- County Probation Department guns and even a submachine gun laid a wide assortment of weapdesigned for concealment in a ons out in a conference room of briefcase were among the weap- the Kenneth Hahn Administration ons seized from people on proba- building to showcase the efforts tion and displayed in downtown u PAGE A2 by ERIC
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From the Front Page
Duterte a ‘respecter of human… PAGE A1 t
charge of human rights violations has been filed,” the Palace said. DFA ready to answer UN criticisms The Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday said that it is ready to answer the United Nations’ criticisms of Duterte and his anti-drug camapaign. “Lumabas na kasi yung statement ng UN Human Rights Commission and we are given one day to respond today, so ready na tayo to give our statement once na magopen yung session today sa Geneva time (The statement of the UN Human Rights Commission already came out and we are given one day to respond today, so we are already ready to give our statement once the session opens in Geneva time),” DFA Assistant Secretary Charles Jose said Jose was responding to the recent criticisms lodged by UN High Commissioner for Human
Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein. Duterte, was among those he singled out in his opening statement at the 33rd session of the Human Rights Council. Hussein hit Duterte for his lack of understanding of human rights institutions. He emphasized that the fair and impartial rule of law is the foundation of public confidence and security and slammed the president’s endorsement of killing drug suspects. “The president of the Philippines’s statements of scorn for international human rights law display a striking lack of understanding of our human rights institutions and the principles which keep societies safe. Empowering police forces to shoot to kill any individual whom they claim to suspect of drug crimes, with or without evidence, undermines justice,” Hussein said in his speech. “The people of the Philippines have a right to judicial
institutions that are impartial, and operate under due process guarantees; and they have a right to a police force that serves justice,” he added. Hussein then advised the Philippine government to extend an invitation to the special rapporteur for extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions. “My office is ready to assist, including with respect to rule of law institutions and the prevention and treatment of drug use in accordance with international norms,” Hussein assured. Last August, Duterte threatened to withdraw the country from the United Nations in his latest outburst against critics of his anti-drugs campaign that has left hundreds of suspects dead. His spokespersons later played down the statement after it was pointed out that there is no procedure to leave the UN, which the Philippines helped found in 1945. n
Imee Marcos… PAGE A1 t
stability and our love from you all,” she said. She described her father as a “simple member of the community who loved the Ilocano dish dinengdeng (vegetable stew), a man who loved to dance the tango, and a father who was indulgent, patient and always joking around.” “He belonged to the best times of gentleman-politicians. We are thankful for his teaching presidency,” said Marcos’ nephew, Ilocos Norte Vice Gov. Eugenio Angelo Marcos Barba. “When I asked mom (Fortuna, Marcos’ youngest sister) what was her most unforgettable experience with Uncle Andy (Marcos), she recalled that when she needed to be in Manila after the war, her brother came rushing to her and accompanied her from Sarrat (town) to Manila. Going to Manila that time was very difficult,” Barba said. n
Civiliam Evidence and Property Custodian for the Los Angeles County Sherrif’s Department Ernesto Castro inspects a small automatic firearm recovered by the DISARM program and displayed at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration on Thursday, Sept. 8. AJPress photo by Eric Anthony Licas
LA County gun confiscation program…
PAGE A1 t
of the Developing Increased Safety Through Arms Recovery Management (DISARM) program. The illegally possessed items were found as the result of wellness and compliance checks on probationers conducted by various LA County law enforcement agencies.
“Since I initiated it in 2000, this program has removed nearly 11,000 guns from the streets,” L.A. County Supervisor Mike Antonovich told the Asian Journal after Thursday’s press event. “This means we have saved a number of lives because the criminals
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Dateline USa
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A
Gov. Brown expands overtime pay for…
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TAX EXEMPT. Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning to their jobs or same employers abroad are now exempted from paying travel tax as well as securing overseas employment certificate and paying Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) processing fee. In a newly approved memorandum circular, the POEA said the new policy was in line with the government’s efforts to streamline the processing of OFWs’ documents. Philstar file photo
Fil-Am community leaders, activists outline… PAGE A1 t
dent,” said Lledo, who now serves as the associate director for Pilipino Workers Center (PWC). “If you have a chance, you have to be a part of the political process.” Resentment has characterized the 2016 U.S. presidential race. However, individuals, especially Filipinos, who are dissatisfied with this year’s candidates and are thinking of skipping November’s election forget what is at stake. That’s the belief of panelists representing a spectrum of liberal views at a forum held at the PWC in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 10. Speakers challenged citizens and residents to make an impact in this year’s election cycle, and the future of American politics. They noted that a vacant seat on the Supreme Court, vastly contrasting immigration plans proposed by this year’s major party candidates and other emerging topics place too much at risk for Filipinos and other people of color to stay silent in November. “If someone tells you it makes no difference, they’re not living the life you’re living,” said Bill Gallegos, former executive director of the environmental group Communities for a Better Environment, during Saturday’s forum. He added that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump’s plans for America would mean sending out “200,000 ICE (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement) agents with guns and tanks to round people up.” Along with other panelists, Gallegos, a critic of Trump and for-
mer Bernie Sanders supporter, warned against the consequences of enacting Trump’s plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants living in the United States. They also criticized the Republican candidate’s stance on foreign policy, the environment, education, minimum wage laws and other matters of great import to Filipinos and other minority communities. “Democracy takes work. It takes education. It takes commitment,” said Grace Barrios,the vice president of outreach for Pilipino American Los Angeles Democrats (PALAD). “If our voice isn’t heard, they think it isn’t important.” PWC hosted Saturday evening’s event in order to engage more Filipino Americans in the political process during a time that may prove to be a pivotal moment in their community’s future. Many members of the community are either unregistered or do not plan on voting, and Fil-Ams have traditionally been reluctant to take part in political action, according to PWC Executive Director Aquilina Versoza. “The actual voting potential of our community is not being realized; we’re below average in turnout,” said Versoza. “This could be seen as negative, but on the other hand, I see a lot of potential in our community.” She and other activists hope to awaken the political consciousness of California’s largest Asian American and Pacific Islander ethnicity. Events like Saturday’s forum serve to introduce members of the community to the
Programs Assistant for the Pilipino Workers Center, Teresita Villasenor, attempts to rally potential voters and volunteers at the PWC election forum on Saturday, Septermber 10. AJPress photo by Eric Anthony Licas
PAL, Cebu Pacific ban use…
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axy Note 7 batteries and phone units have caught fire during charging, prompting the manufacturer to recall all units sold worldwide. Samsung said that only Galaxy Note 7 phones have been recalled due to the factory defect that causes the batteries to explode. PAL said safety remains a cornerstone of its operations, “and as such, the flag carrier will be ensuring full compliance on board each flight and is seeking the full cooperation of its passengers.” “In addition, these devices are not allowed as check-in items, but may be hand-carried for as long as these are switched off at all times. All Samsung Galaxy Note 7 units - whether used or brand new - will not be accepted as PAL cargo shipment.” In a statement, PAL said it started the prohibition of the use of such devices since Sept. 9, to comply with a directive of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The IATA directive was issued following Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.’s global recall order on the products last week. The recall is being undertaken as findings showed the Galaxy Note 7 batteries and phone units have caught fire during charging. Low-cost carriers Cebu Pacific and AirAsia also said they are not allowing passengers to use and charge the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 device while onboard the aircraft. “We sincerely hope for our
passengers’ full cooperation, as the safety of everyone onboard our flights remains our utmost priority,” Cebu Pacific said. Cebu Pacific (CEB) said: “In light of the recent recall of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices due to safety issues, Cebu Pacific advises passengers that the usage and charging of the device are prohibited onboard all CEB and Cebgo flights beginning Sept. 11 until further notice,” the airline said in a statement. CEB added that Galaxy Note 7 devices must also not be stowed in checked-in baggage, but may be hand-carried as long as the device is turned off at all times inside the aircraft. AirAsia said their guests might approach any of their ground staff for further information about the new guideline on the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 device. American television Fox 10 reported claims that a faulty Galaxy Note 7 had set fire to a family’s jeep. Samsung has said that battery problems were behind the phones catching fire, but that it was difficult to work out which phones were affected among those sold. The phone was launched last August and has been otherwise generally well received by consumers and critics. Live Mint consumer report said: “For Samsung, which prides itself on manufacturing prowess, the scale of the recall, which covers 10 markets including the Philippines, is expected to be unprecedented.” (With Louella Desiderio)
national discussion and inform them of their options. Kabataang maka-Bayan: ProPeople Youth (KMB) chair Eddy Gana reminded forum attendees that their choices were for president not limited to Trump or Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. “There is no lesser of two evils, only candidates that do or do not better represent your ideals,” said Gana on Saturday. “A vote
teed overtime pay if they work more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week — a standard in other industries, but a first in the state’s agricultural workforce. The bill was sponsored by the United Farm Workers of America, which said that Brown’s passing of the bill was a victory after nearly 80 years of working for the rights of farmworkers. Six years ago, then-Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill. Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez of California’s 80th District, who authored AB 1066, praised Brown’s decision to pass the bill. Gonzalez, a daughter of an immigrant farmworker, has long pushed for workers rights, especially immigrants and workers of color. Of the state’s farmworkers, 90 percent are Latino and 80 percent are immigrants, according to the Los Angeles Times.
“The hundreds of thousands of men and women who work in California’s fields, dairies and ranches feed the world and anchor our economy,” Gonzalez said in a speech following the bill’s passing. “They will finally be treated equally under the law. It is a good day.” Filipino-American Assemblymember Rob Bonta, a fervent supporter of AB 1066 and farmworkers rights, took to Twitter to thank Brown. “Thank you @JerryBrownGov for signing #AB1066 #Farmworker OT pay is a reality for those who put food on our tables!” Bonta tweeted on Monday. Another long time supporter of the bill Thomas Perez, secretary for the United States Department of Labor, shared his support for the bill’s passing in a statement. “People who work on farms and in our homes are some of America’s most vulnerable work-
ers,” Perez said. “We all depend on their work to feed and care for our families, but far too often they can’t afford to put food on their own dinner tables.” However, the bill’s passing has been met with critics. The Sacramento Bee reported that business groups believe that increasing labor costs will be damaging in a key agricultural state. Other said that the farm workers will be harmed if employers “reduce worker hours to avoid triggering overtime requirements,” the Bee reported. However, advocates for the bill say that the bill is a step towards equality for a historically marginalized group. The state did not grant overtime pay for farm laborers until 1976 when the 10-hour-a-day/60-hours-aweek threshold was established by the state’s Industrial Welfare Commission. (Klarize Medenilla / AJPress)
New Report Card: Contracting with minority businesses grows but some companies flunk California utility/telecom contracting with minority firms reaches $5.7 billion
BERKELEY, Calif. — California’s utility and telecommunications companies spent $5.7 billion on contracts with minority-owned businesses in 2015, but this generally strong performance was distinctly uneven, The Greenlining Institute reports in its latest Supplier Diversity Report Card. Comcast, for example, did less than 10 percent of its u PAGE A5 contracting with minority-owned
businesses, earning a D- for minority contracting. The Supplier Diversity Report Card was released publicly Sept. 14. The report card assigns letter grades to individual companies for their performance in multiple contracting categories, and includes analysis and recommendations aimed at increasing contracting opportunities. “Driven by smart California
policies that promote contracting with diverse businesses, many of these companies do as much as 30 percent of their contracting with firms owned by African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Pacific Islanders – leading the nation in diverse contracting,” said Greenlining Institute Energy and Telecommunications Policy
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US sex abuser of PH kids gets 60 years in prison
PORTLAND, Oregon – A US federal court judge sentenced a 47-year-old Forest Grove man to 60 years in prison for sexually abusing children in the Philippines. U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon on Thursday, Sept. 8, sentenced Steven Douglas Rockett to 60 years in federal prison followed by a life term of supervised release. Rockett was convicted by a federal jury in Portland, Oregon after a seven-day trial in May of this year, for producing child pornography outside the United States, engaging in illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, producing and attempting to produce child pornography (five counts) and possession of child pornography. Prosecutors presented victim impact statements from Filipino child victims as well as statements from Rockett’s victims in Oregon. The prosecutors urged the court to impose a sentence of no less than 60 years – 45 consecutive to Rockett’s 52.5-year sentence in Oregon State court for crimes committed against a number of different victims. Rockett’s attorneys requested
were “extremely serious offenses.” He expressed doubt that Rockett could refrain from committing further crimes if released from prison. Judge Simon imposed a sentence designed to ensure that Rockett would not harm any other children stating, “I don’t think you are capable of restraining yourself.” The evidence presented at trial established that Rockett traveled to the Philippines, where he sexually abused Filipino children, and produced or attempted to produce child pornography deSteven Douglas Rockett picting them. the mandatory minimum senRockett solicited children (eitence of 15 years, imposed to run ther directly or through a parconcurrently with Rockett’s state ent) both in the Philippines and sentence, which is presently on in Oregon, to take and send him appeal. sexually explicit images of them“One of civil society’s most selves. In addition, Rockett surimportant duties and obligations reptitiously recorded children is to protect the most vulnerable undressing and showering at his among us. Children are the most residence in Forest Grove, at a vulnerable,” observed Judge Si- former residence in Aloha, and in mon before agreeing with the hotel rooms in the Philippines. prosecution’s recommendation Collaborative investigation and sentencing Rockett to 60 The investigation was a collabyears – 45 to be served consecu- orative effort on the part of the tive to the Rockett’s state sen- Forest Grove Police Department, tence. the Washington County Sheriff’s ‘Extremely serious offenses’ Office, and the FBI. InvestigaJudge Simon noted that these u PAGE A5
ADDRESS NLEX POLLUTION. The Commission on Audit (COA) has called the attention of the provincial government of Bulacan regarding air pollution along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). In a 2015 report released recently, state auditors said the burning of hay stalks from San Simon, Pampanga to Sta. Rita in Bulacan is causing a “fog-like” situation along the highway. Photo from Monica Arellano-Ongpin/CC BY 2.0
LA County gun confiscation program inspired by… PAGE A2 t
don’t have the guns to commit crimes.” The program was largely inspired by a wave of gun control advocacy in response to a shooting spree that happened at the North Valley Jewish Community Center in Granada Hills, California. There, on Tuesday, August 10, 1999, a self-described white supremacist opened fire, wounding two adults and three children. Following the initial attack, the gunman later crossed paths with Filipino-American postal worker Joseph Ileto. The letter carrier was filling in as a substitute on another person’s route when he was murdered for being a minority and a federal employee. Since it was launched nearly 16 years ago, DISARM has contributed to the arrest of over 23,000 people in possession of a firearm while on probation, according to police statistics. In collaboration with the L.A. Interagency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Task Force (IMPACT), about $730 million dollars in illegal drug money has been recovered. Antonovich said he would like to see the program expanded on a statewide level. “They can use Los Angeles County, for the past 16 years as the pilot program showing that it works effectively and it needs to be expanded,” he said. Despite ongoing efforts by law enforcement, police say the confiscated weapons are likely only
Some of the firearms seized in LA County displayed
a fraction of the unlawfully possessed guns out on the street because firearms can be purchased on the black market or stolen. Officers say tips from the public are crucial in keeping guns out of the wrong hands. “Our citizens are our ears, and they’re our eyes,” Lieutenant Lajuna Haselrig of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told
AJPress photo by Eric Anthony Licas
the Asian Journal. “Private citizens see before we do.” She hopes those who suspect a person of illegally possessing a firearm will contact either the probation department, local police or, if they wish to remain anonymous, LA crime stoppers. In addition, officers strongly encourage people who own guns to keep them locked away in a gun safe. n
Duterte to stop joint patrols… PAGE A1 t Zone,” the president said. “Territory is limited to the 12mile limit. That is ours. Hanggang diyan lang tayo (Until that point),” he added. Duterte, however, did not provide further details in his security pronouncements. Last April 2016, the United
States and Philippines conducted a joint naval patrols in the South China Sea, several months after the Supreme Court upheld the PH-US Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). US Defense Secretary Ash Carter said that these patrols “contribute to the safety and security of the region’s waters.” n
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US convicts 2 Filipinos facing 20 years for dumping oil at sea SAN FRANCISCO – Two Filipino senior ship engineers face 20 years in prison after being found guilty of dumping pollutants at sea and attempting to hide the deed from US authorities. A federal jury in Greenville, North Carolina, convicted Oceanic Illsabe Limited, Oceanfleet Shipping Limited and two of their employees, senior engineering officers Rustico Ignacio and Cassius Samson, both Filipinos, of violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS), obstruction of justice, false statements, witness tampering and conspiracy, according a report by the Maritime Executive. Oceanic Illsabe Limited owns the M/V Ocean Hope, a large general cargo vessel that dumped tons of oily waste into the Pacific Ocean last year. Oceanfleet Shipping Limited was the managing operator of the vessel. Both companies operate out of Greece. Oceanic and Oceanfleet were convicted of one count of conspiracy, one count of violating APPS, two counts of obstruction of justice, one count of false statements and four counts of witness tampering. Ignacio was convicted of one count of conspiracy, one count of violating APPS, one count of obstruction of justice and two counts of witness tampering. Samson was convicted of one count of conspiracy, one count of violating APPS, two counts of obstruction of justice, one count of false statements and three counts of witness tampering. The companies could be fined up to $500,000 per count, in addition to other possible penalties. Ignacio and Samson face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the obstruction of justice charges. In June 2015, M/V Ocean Hope discharged
M/V Ocean Hope dumped tons of oil and sludge in the ocean. Photo by Vessel Finder
around ten metric tons of sludge into the ocean and also regularly pumped contaminated water overboard. None of these discharges were disclosed as required. Evidence showed that the companies knew that their ship had not unloaded any oil sludge at port since September 2014 and that it often did not use its oil-water separator. Second Engineer Samson instead ordered crewmembers to use a “magic pipe” to bypass the vessel’s oil-water separator and pump oil sludge directly into the ocean. Crewmembers also were ordered to dump oily water from the vessel’s bilges into the sea to several times a week. Chief Engineer Ignacio knew and approved of the dumping. The engineers also used a tank designated for oily wastes to store diesel fuel for sale on the black market. At the Port of Wilmington, North Carolina, the companies and the two engineers filed false oil reports to U.S. Coast Guard inspectors. The defendants ordered lower-level crewmembers to lie to Coast Guard personnel, when the dumping was discovered. (Inquirer.net)
US sex abuser of PH kids gets 60 years in prison
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tors executed search warrants at Rockett’s residence, and seized computer equipment and digital data storage devices. Investigators found a pinhole camera hidden in a wall in a guest bathroom, which Rockett used to record images of naked children. Another spy camera, hidden inside a clock radio, contained surreptitious video recordings of naked Filipino children in the bathroom and shower of Rockett’s hotel room. Rockett appeared in some of the videos. FBI Special Agents traveled to Cebu City, Philippines, where they identified and interviewed some of the victims depicted in the videos, and some of the children who Rockett solicited to send him sexually explicit images. The jury heard testimony from seven victims who were sexually abused or exploited by Rockett in Oregon and overseas. The jury deliberated several hours before
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reaching their verdict. “This sentence is a just and deserving punishment for a dangerous sexual predator, and reflects the life-long impact his conduct will have on his victims,” said Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.” Williams added, “We will not tolerate American citizens traveling abroad to sexually abuse children. Child sexual predators like Steven Rockett must understand that the sexual exploitation of children carries severe consequences, as Judge Simon’s sentence clearly demonstrates.” Life behind bars “Effectively, Steven Rockett will, rightfully, live the rest of his life behind bars. I would ask the community to remember that the innocent children who suffered his abuse will also pay a heavy price for many years to come,” said Greg Bretzing, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Oregon. “No child deserves to live a life
of violence and violation, and it is our responsibility to bring justice to them and their families.” This case stemmed from a coordinated investigation by members of the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force and was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice and led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. (Inquirer.net)
RISK REDUCTION. Investing in risk reduction and building a resilient economy is the focus of this year’s celebration of the Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) which is celebrated every September. DPRM is a nationwide information and advocacy event being led by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) since 2003. Shown in photo is PIDS President Gilberto Llanto and all guest speakers during the event’s press conference recently. Photo courtesy of DOH.gov
Fil-Am community leaders, activists outline…
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for a third party is not a wasted vote.” He said widespread disillusionment felt by many voters during the current election cycle is a sign that Americans are ready to substantially challenge the two-party system. Americans can combat the root cause of that resentment by considering a vote for Green Party Candidate Jill Stein, Libertarian Gary Johnson, or any of the other non-establishment party candidates. However, Carol Ojeda-Kimbrough, an activist in attendance at the forum, suggested that third-party votes could raise the likelihood of a Republican victory in November. As a cautionary tale, she
brought up the 2000 presidential race in which Democrat Al Gore won the popular vote, but lost in the electoral college to Republican George W. Bush. Many progressive voters who supported Green Party candidate Ralph Nader that year deeply regretted her decision, especially after the initiation of the Iraq War, according to Ojeda-Kimbrough. KMB and PWC do not support a particular party, but Gana said he could sympathize with people worried about the implications of a possible Trump presidency. However, he believes that even if the Republican nominee took office, one way or another, either Congress or the American people would not allow the billionaire’s most controversial proposals to
be realized. Gana added that a Trump presidency would provide further incentive to move away from the two-party system. Whichever side they may lean towards, panelists say it is critical for Fil-Ams to speak out more frequently to ensure that the needs of the community are not ignored. Even if they are not eligible to vote, residents can still help the community make an impact through volunteer work. “We want everyone to get involved,” said PWC community organizer, Ian Kamus. “Even if you don’t necessarily like the candidates, there are other issues that are oftentimes bigger than the candidates that you have to look at.” (Eric Anthony Licas / AJPress)
New Report Card: Contracting with minority… PAGE A3 t
Director Stephanie Chen. “This creates jobs and opportunities in communities that too often get left behind, but the uneven performance between companies shows there’s still work to do. Given the growing role that tech and green tech are now playing in the utility sector, it’s clearly time for those companies to step up to the plate.” Key findings include: • The top spender in dollars
spent with minority business enterprises was Pacific Gas & Electric, spending $1.6 billion in 2015 with MBEs, or 28.36 percent of its total 2015 procurement. Sprint had the largest percentage of MBE procurement at 30.82 percent ($406 million). • California’s supplier diversity leaders remain best-in-class, but momentum seems to be leveling off. • Generally speaking, procurement with African American,
Native American, Asian Pacific Islander and women of colorowned businesses leaves ample room for improvement. • The most successful companies employ several common best practices, such as including supplier diversity in procurement decisions from the very start and providing focused capacity-building, technical assistance, and mentorship support that help suppliers get better at what they do best. n
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Features
OpiniOn To the President of the Philippines THE GLOBAL Commission on Drug Policy was born from the recognition that the prohibitionist and repressive “war on drugs,” which has persisted for the past 50 years, has failed. Drugs have always existed and have existed everywhere, and it is illusory to believe that their use can be eradicated completely, particularly through violent methods. Indeed, four members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy were heads of state (Brazil, Mexico, Poland and Portugal) when the United Nations approved in 1998 a 10-year strategy to create drug-free societies. Ten years later, however, drugs produced, trafficked and consumed were more available than when the decision was taken—and that upward trend has continued since. We now admit that a war on drugs will always prove unable to prevent drug supply and use in the long term, leading only to more pain and suffering. For example, the levels of supply of “shabu,” of particular concern in your country, appear to be equally high in Thailand and Malaysia as in the Philippines, despite repressive policies. In contrast, countries as diverse as New Zealand, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Uruguay, Bolivia, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and West African nations are now considering and even implementing alternatives, including laws regulating the use, possession and/or production of drugs, with marked success in harm and crime reduction. Even the military regime in Thailand has recognized its failure to reduce drug trafficking, calling it “an unwinnable war.” Mr. President, we believe that your current
strategy also constitutes an unwinnable war, at a terrible cost to your population. It is not a question of choosing between human rights and the safety of your people, as you have claimed, but the means employed to address crime must not result in further crimes against individuals whose conduct often causes very little harm. We acknowledge that your people are concerned with high crime and corrupt institutions; there is little evidence to show, however, that drugs represent the root of the widespread corruption and insecurity which your countrymen are concerned about. Repressive and punitive actions, based on the inhumane idea of sacrificing the lives of some to enhance the lives of the majority, are not only ineffective but also undermine the social fabric of your communities, with serious negative consequences: innocent victims killed on mere suspicion, orphaned children, fear of law enforcement and arbitrary justice even among law-abiding citizens, increased HIV transmission rates, and prison overcrowding. An effective drug policy is far more complex than you portray it, and should include investments in drug prevention and treatment, harm reduction, public health, socioeconomic development, criminal justice reform, as well as
Guest Editorial
Philstar.com photo
in security. These measures will help address the root causes of drug use and trafficking, and not only respect the needs and rights of all individuals but will also be far more effective long-term than the brutal approach which you
currently favor. — Fernando Cardoso, former president of Brazil; Louise Arbour, former high commissioner; and Sir Richard Branson, members of the Global Commission on Drug Policy (Inquirer.net)
Fil-Am group urges kababayans: Unite and support Duterte’s war vs drugs and criminality ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, The Fil-Am Fil-Am group U.S. Pinoys for Real Perspective Change (USPRC) held a prayer vigil in front of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. to Gel SantoS-ReloS declare its support for Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s all out war against the drug pandemic in the Philippines, while making sure the Duterte administration follows the rule of law, due process and accountability. In my interview on The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” with Atty. Arnedo Valera, acting chairman of USPRC, I asked him if he believes the rule of law and due process was followed in the more than 2,400 drug-related fatalities since Duterte took office. Valera explained: “The president/PNP and the military were ordered to use force only in self-defense and shoot in selfdefense. Generals and other police
scalawags are being investigated and cases will be filed; Non-state actors referring to drug lords, pushers and vigilantes who are now engaged in summary executions among and between them to cover their bases are being arrested and prosecuted.” Valera asserted that the USPRC will also act as a watchdog, saying “to make sure that while we support the drug war to save our nation, especially women and children, we will continue to demand accounting of both undetermined deaths and deaths in the encounter and self-defense. Calling for the full support of the drug war is consistent [with our stand] that it should be done under the rule of law.” Valera is also a human rights advocate with strong ties with the United Nations. He affirmed, “As a human rights advocate, I will demand transparency and respect for these prin-
At Large
Rina Jimenez-DaviD WHEN you come to think of it, Mary Jane Veloso, who is still—as this is being written—held captive in an Indonesian jail even as she faces execution on drugs charges, has received better treatment at the hands of her captors than thousands of Filipinos suspected of being either drug pushers or users. Veloso was arrested in 2010 for carrying 2.6 kilos of heroin, an amount enough to prosecute her for criminal drug possession. She underwent a trial and was found guilty. She was scheduled for execution, along with several other foreigners, but was excluded from the list after the Philippine government assured that it had arrested and was investigating and filing charges against the “real” guilty parties who had deceived Veloso into acting as a drug courier. Although Indonesian Presi-
ciples. Unlike extrajudicial killings during the Marcos dictatorship to stifle legitimate dissent, killings today are perpetrated by drug lords, pushers and addicts, and of course deaths in self-defense . If there are evidence to the contrary, then the citizenry should be encouraged to come out and cooperate with the government.” He went on to urge kababayans to not presume that the PNP and the military are killers entirely. “If there are excesses, yes we should condemn them. The Rule of law and due process are non-negotiable and we gave specific demands on this, aside from supporting the peace talks, programs for food, jobs and justice etc.” Will you heed this call for unity and support for Duterte’s all-out war vs drugs? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective. com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos
Mary Jane and our drug casualties
dent Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has launched a tough campaign against drug use in his country, it pales in comparison with the “war against drugs” that the Philippines’ President Duterte unleashed even before he took office. To date an estimated 3,000 suspects have been killed in police shootouts or in summary executions carried out by unknown and unidentified assassins. Thousands more have surrendered to local authorities, although many of those who reported to their village chiefs have since ended up in the “kill list.” The stakes for Veloso rose to a dangerously high level recently when it was reported that Duterte, during a visit to Indonesia, had given Jokowi the “go ahead” for the execution of Veloso in accordance with Indonesian law. Jokowi was quoted by the Antara news agency as saying that “President Duterte has given the go-ahead to proceed with the execution.” He explained further that he told Duterte about Mary Jane’s situation “and I told him that Mary Jane [has
been found guilty] for carrying 2.6 kilograms of heroin. I also told him about the delay in the execution during the meeting.” *** Malacañang has since, by turns, denied such a claim or backtracked on how the exchange really went. At first, Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay denied outright that Duterte and Jokowi had even discussed Veloso’s case. But when Jokowi himself confirmed their exchange, Duterte spokesperson Ernesto Abella issued a statement strongly denying that the President had consented to Veloso’s execution. “There was no endorsement,” said Abella. “He simply said: ‘Follow your own laws, I will not interfere.’” Well, I don’t know. It’s an extremely fine line between “I will not interfere” and “giving the go-ahead.” If I recall right, there was a firestorm of angry comments and outright denunciations when reports reached the
country about Veloso’s inclusion last year on a list of drug traffickers scheduled for execution by firing squad. Many, especially Veloso’s family members and leaders of groups working for overseas workers, denounced what they called the government’s “neglect” of Veloso’s case and failure to stop her execution. But in a face-to-face meeting, then President Aquino was described as “breaking protocol” when he directly appealed for a stay of execution on Veloso. Sure enough, Veloso was given a reprieve, even if she remained behind bars in Indonesia. But even that did not stop Aquino’s critics from harping on what they called PNoy’s and Filipino diplomats’ neglect of Veloso. *** Before his meeting with Jokowi, Duterte told the media that he would plead for Veloso’s life, that she be spared the death penalty. But in the wake of reports that he failed to put his case for Veloso’s reprieve, if not freedom, more strongly be-
fore the Indonesian leader, Duterte seems to be taking a less trenchant stance, softening his previously pugnacious approach to most issues. Now his spokesperson is saying that there is still no need to plead for clemency for Veloso since she “is still not scheduled for execution.” Imagine if this had been said under any other president. The comments, especially on social media, would have been scathing. But in the wake of the seeming complacency of Filipino officialdom towards Veloso’s fate, public reaction seems to be strangely muted in turn. Social media posts from Filipinos even seemed to turn the tables on Veloso, saying that, as a drug mule, she deserved her imprisonment and imminent execution. Perhaps these are the same folks who excoriate the “bleeding hearts” among us for raising human rights concerns about the thousands of extrajudicial killings and warrantless arrests. And if they see nothing wrong with the
relentless series of killings and the climate of fear being created around the issue of drugs, then how could they be expected to feel a bit of compassion for an accused drug mule like Veloso? *** How could we, as a nation, have felt the stirrings of compassion for Veloso, the mother of two, just a few months ago, and now see her imminent fate as one she fully deserves for supposedly knowingly transporting drugs? Is it because eliminating the drugs problem has suddenly been elevated to a priority for governance, a problem that obliterates entirely all the other social, economic and political issues we face? If so, then let’s stop all pretense and tell Veloso that sorry, we may feel bad about your continued stay in an Indonesian jail and the possibility of death by firing squad, but you know, we’ve got problems of our own and bigger fish to fry in our quest for—what?—the peace and quiet of the dead and complicit?
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Dateline PhiliPPines
Drilon pushes for higher tourism budget by Tarra
Quismundo Inquirer.net
MANILA, Philippines—Senate President Pro Tempore Franklin Drilon on Tuesday, Sept. 13, called for a higher budget for the Department of Tourism (DOT) as he noted a massive funding decline for the agency tasked to promote the country around the world. In a budget hearing, Drilon had to squeeze a response from DOT officials on whether or not they think their proposed P2.40billion budget for 2017 was enough, noting its 32 percent decline from the current P3.62billion allocation. The DOT had originally proposed a 2017 budget of P3.9 billion, but it was slashed by the Department of Budget and Management, cutting down on bottom-up budgeting (BUB) allocations, funds for capital outlay and the marketing budget. “Dagdagan niyo (increase it),” said Drilon, during the Senate finance committee hearing led by Sen. Loren Legarda. “I will have no qualms… [if it will help] to highlight the importance of tourism,” Drilon said. To the senator’s remarks Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo responded: “Senator, if we can get a bigger budget, we would appreciate it.” Drilon noted the importance of enhancing tourism promotion given “recent issues confronting our country, including the vigilante killings, the Davao bombing, etc” which has triggered travel advisories from several foreign countries.
Senate President Pro Tempore Franklin Drilon.
“This is a crucial time for the government to step up its tourism efforts in order to counter any negative perception that the international community may have towards our country,” the senator said. “The effects of this negative perception on our tourism remain to be seen, but it will definitely hit us,” he said. The decreased DOT budget would mean a sharp decline in the department’s marketing budget from P1.2 billion this year to P300 million this year. Such funding supports the DOT’s “It’s more fun in the Philippines” campaign, which is credited for increasing tourist arrivals in the country during the Aquino administration. “How do you plan to achieve this (marketing targets) if you have no budget?” Drilon asked officials. He also noted earlier reports
Inquirer File photo by Grig C. Montegrande
that the Duterte administration might be planning to change the tourism slogan, saying: “If it ain’t broke, why fix it?” Tourism Undersecretary Benito Bengzon clarified that the DOT is not planning to change the popular and viral slogan, saying: “We’re not necessarily changing “It’s more fun in the Philippines.” The idea is to come up with activities that will build on the gains that we’ve achieved.” Former broadcaster and now Tourism Undersecretary Katherine Chloe de Castro said the department is about to launch a P650-million tourism campaign, which would see television advertisement placements in countries like Germany and India. Tourism accounted for 8.3 percent of the gross domestic product last year, with the arrival of five million visitors
Miriam still undergoing treatment for lung cancer by Paolo
romero Philstar.com
cancer and the family is hoping she will fully recover. Thank you MANILA, Philippines – For- for respecting our privacy and mer senator Miriam Defensor- continuously praying for her,” Santiago continues to undergo Mechel said. “She loves all of you. She is treatment for lung cancer at the St. Luke’s Medical Center a fighter and will continuously in Taguig City, her daughter-in- fight this battle,” she added. On May 31, Santiago was law said. In her Facebook post, Mechel rushed to the Makati Medical Santiago clarified that the 70- Center due to complications. year-old was not confined in the She was discharged a week intensive care unit, but in a pri- later. She announced in July 2014 vate room. “She is being treated for her that she had lung cancer. Last
year, she said she was cured after participating in a global clinical trial for a new anti-cancer drug. She ran and lost in the May presidential elections. Her illness prevented her from waging a full campaign. In December 2011, Santiago was elected to the International Criminal Court. She was the first Asian and Filipino to be voted to the body. She resigned in June 2014 due to chronic fatigue syndrome.
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‘Narco vice mayor’ being probed for Davao blast by Jaime Laude and
eveLyn macairan Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) filed drug trafficking charges Saturday, Sept 10, against Talitay, Maguindanao Vice Mayor Abdul Wahab Sabal, who is also being investigated for the Davao City bombing last Sept. 2 that killed 14 people. The PNP’s Anti-Illegal Drugs Group (AIDG) filed the charges against Sabal and three other suspects before the Department of Justice (DOJ). Sabal was flown to Manila from Maguindanao early Saturday morning following his arrest on Thursday, Sept. 8, at the Cotabato City airport. DOJ prosecutor Gino Santiago said the complaints were filed against Sabal, Mohanna Sabal, Nasser Maulana and Norodin Abas. Santiago said that based on the letter request of the PNP, the investigators filed complaints of violating Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 1992 and Illegal Possession
Vice Mayor Abdul Wahab Sabal of Talitay, Maguindanao and three companions arrive at the Department of Justice where drug trafficking charges were filed against them. Sabal is also being investigated for his possible involvement in the Davao night market blast on Sept. 2. Photo by Edd Gumban
of Firearms and Explosives against the four respondents. The DOJ clarified that it would be decided by next week if a case would be filed against the suspects in the proper court. Aside from the illegal drug trade, police are investigating the possible involvement of Vice Mayor Sabal in the bombing at the Davao City night market. Police released an artist’s sketch of the suspect who was wearing a
mask. PNP chief Director General Roland dela Rosa said that the blast could have been perpetrated by narco-politicians in retaliation for the government’s sustained antidrugs campaign. Santiago said that there was “no mention” that the complaint filed against the four individuals were connected to the Davao blast last Sept. 2. Earlier, President Duterte accused Sabal and his brother Talitay Mayor Montasir Sabal as narco-politicians for their involvement in the illegal drug trade. The Sabal brothers earlier surrendered to Maguindanao police director Senior Supt. Nicksdon Muksan and denied their involvement in drug trafficking. They later presented themselves to Dela Rosa in Camp Crame, Quezon City. In Manila, Sabal was initially brought to the AIDG office before he was brought to the DOJ in Manila. PNP spokesman Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos said that he still has no information regarding Sabal’s arrest and presence at the AIDG.
Senate, House OK bills postponing brgy polls by Jefferson
antiporda and LLanesca t. panti Manilatimes.net
THE Senate and the House of Representatives on Tuesday approved measures postponing the barangay (village) and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) or youth council elections scheduled next month, virtually extending the terms of incumbent officials for a year. With 20 affirmative votes and two negative votes, Senate Bill No. 1112, authored and sponsored by Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, was passed on third and final reading.
The House also passed House Bill 3504 on third and final reading via a 214-4 vote. Angara, who heads the Senate Committee on Local Government, said the proposed law postponing the barangay and SK elections will no longer go through the bicameral conference committee because the House adopted their version. The measure sets the barangay elections on October 23, 2017. Senate minority leader Ralph Recto said he voted against the postponement of the barangay and SK polls because he is not convinced that the reasons cited in moving the electoral exercise
are enough to justify it. “By putting off the elections for a year, we are only putting aside funds budgeted for the elections for a year. We can only save money if we are permanently cancelling the polls. But we are only postponing it,” he explained. Recto said postponing the elections gave barangay officials who coddle or are in cahoots with drug lords another year in office. Lawmakers at the House meanwhile said postponing the elections by a year will give President Rodrigo Duterte a free hand in appointing officials and allow infrastructure projects to be implemented.
Lawmaker seeks 15 days’ paternity leave
SuRIGAO del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel wants to double the mandatory paid paternity leave benefit being enjoyed by all married male employees. Pimentel filed House Bill (HB) 3401, which seeks to raise to 15 days the seven-day leave a husband can avail. Male employees are allowed to file for a paternity leave for four childbirths of his lawful wife. HB 3401 seeks to amend RA 8187, or the Paternity Leave Benefit Act of 1996.
The 20-year-old law authored by the late Sen. Ernesto Herrera also applies to a miscarriage. In batting for the speedy passage of his bill, Pimentel invoked the Constitution that mandates the State “to promote the welfare of labor, to solidify the family, and to provide improved quality of life for all.” He cited studies showing that husbands who took longer paternity leaves “were more involved with their children and child care activities,” thus re-
inforcing the long-term bond between father and child. Pimentel also supports proposals in the House of the Representatives and the Senate to increase the maternity leave for working mothers from 60 days “to at least 100 days.” He noted that a number of the country’s largest employers, including Accenture Inc., already provide their female employees 120 days paid maternity leave benefit. (Manilatimes.net)
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Exciting new opportunity to enter the U.S.: The ‘International Entrepreneur Rule’
Your Immigration Solution Devin Connolly & nanCy Miller IT is well known that there are limited ways of lawfully residing in the U.S. It is most commonly allowed on the basis of family relationships or on the foreign national possessing certain employment stills. This has been relatively constant over the years. However, it appears that there is a new way for people to potentially reside in the U.S. with valid immigration status. The Department of Homeland Security has proposed the “International Entrepreneur Rule.” This rule would allow foreign nationals to be paroled into the U.S. if they can demonstrate that their entry to the U.S. would provide a significant public benefit due to their role as an entrepreneur of a start-up entity. The Department of Homeland Security estimates that perhaps as many as 3,000 people per year may be eligible for parole into the U.S. under this program. As with all applications for entry into the U.S., there are several requirements that applicants must meet to be eligible under this program. First, they must show that they are a sufficient “entrepreneur.” An “entrepreneur” is defined as someone that possesses a substantial ownership interested in a start-up entity and has a central and active role in the operations of that entity. They cannot be simply a passive investor. In addition, the underlying business must also meet the definition of “start-up entity.” This has been defined as a U.S. business entity that was formed under federal or state law, was formed within the 3 years immediately preceding the filing of the
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up entity’s goods or services; the applicant’s knowledge, skills or experience that justifies their active role in the operations of the entity; and evidence that the entity has experience sufficient revenue and growth. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service will weigh all submitted evidence and then make a discretionary decision on whether to grant the applicant parole into the U.S. If granted, the applicant will be paroled into the U.S. for up to 2 years. This initial grant of parole may also be extended beyond 2 years by applying for re-parole. Applicants will also be permitted to leave the U.S. during their parole period and thereafter return to continue their residence in the U.S. Finally, a person’s spouse and children may also apply for parole into the U.S. This is an exciting new opportunity for certain foreign entrein the 365 days prior to filing the preneurs. It is clearly a complex application for parole into the process, but all of the hard work will be worth it for the opportuniU.S. A “qualified investment” is an ty to reside in the U.S. Be sure to investment made in good faith consult with an experienced and that is a purchase from the start- knowledgeable immigration atup entity of equity or convertible torney to maximize your chances debt. A “qualified investor” is a for success. *** U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or perhaps an organiza- Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, tion, that has made sufficient in- largest and most experienced immigration firms vestments of at least $1,000,000 in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, over the last five years, and has San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more also created full-time jobs or Information please call (800) 795-8009 or visit generated substantial revenue www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 for the start-up entity. When submitting an applica- E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com tion for parole under this pro- Website: www.rreeves.com. *** gram, an applicant must be sure to clearly demonstrate their The analysis and suggestions offered in eligibility for parole. Issues to be this column do not create a lawyer-client addressed include evidence of relationship and are not a substitute for the capital investments from quali- personalized representation that is essential (Advertising Supplement) fied investors; proof of the start- to every case. application for parole, etc. It is also required that the business have substantial potential for rapid growth and job creation. The Department of Homeland Security will also look closely at the money that has been invested in the start-up entity. It is required that the business has received a qualified investment of at least $345,000 from one or more qualified investors in the 365 days prior to filing the application for parole into the U.S. Alternatively, the business may have also received at least $100,000 through a qualified government award or grant
An “entrepreneur” is defined as someone that possesses a substantial ownership interested in a start-up entity and has a central and active role in the operations of that entity. They cannot be simply a passive investor.
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booked in the same period last year. The BSP said all FDI compoMANILA, Philippines — For- nent registered increases as ineign direct investments (FDIs) vestors’ confidence was buoyed flowing into the Philippines al- by the country’s robust economic most doubled in the first half de- growth prospects. spite plunging to its lowest level “This reflected investors’ confithis year in June, the Bangko dence in the Philippine economy Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) report- on the back of sound macroecoed Tuesday, Sept. 13. nomic fundamentals and robust Data released by the cen- growth,” the BSP added. tral bank showed FDI inflows The country’s gross domestic amounted to $4.19 billion from product (GDP) growth accelerJanuary to June or 95 percent ated to seven percent in the sechigher than the $2.15 billion ond quarter from 6.8 percent in by Lawrence
agcaoiLi Philstar.com
the first quarter amid the strong boost from election related spending. This brought the GDP expansion to 6.9 percent in the first half of the year from 5.5 percent in the same period last year. Economic managers see the GDP growing between six and seven percent this year after easing to 5.9 percent last year from 6.1 percent in 2014 due to weak global demand and lack of government spending during the tail end of the term of former presi-
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Jollibee eyes investment opportunities in US, China by iris
gonzaLes Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — Food conglomerate Jollibee Foods Corp. (JFC) is on the look out for new companies to acquire in the US and China as the company aims to grow even bigger, a ranking official said. “We continue to look for companies to acquire so we’re always working on something,” said JFC chief financial officer Ysmael Baysa. He said the focus was outside the Philippines, particularly China and the US, which are the company’s biggest markets. “Most likely, it’s outside of the Philippines.
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SEPTEMBER 16-22, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette ADevA MAglAyA (Part 2 of 2)
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 scandalplagued, 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. Our zeitgeist is characterized by distrust and cynicism. It’s been building up for a long time. Zeitgeist is that fancy schmancy $20 word of Germanic origin sociologists use to refer to the spirit of the age. There seems to be a collective negative energy that hovers about and affects the thoughts and feelings of many who are af-
Community Journal
Bringing moxie back “You just might be the person who can brighten up a room simply by leaving it.” fected by these dark times. Perhaps, this is somewhat similar to the dark mood and feelings of helplessness that afflicted many who slogged through the long years of the Great Depression. IT IS TIME TO SHAKE IT OFF. For us to get back on track, we have to refuse to live in fear and zap out of this paranoia that can paralyze us into immobility. We need to take courage. Someone once said, “A brave person is someone who takes positive action after he has said his prayers.” Time and again, it’s been found that tough survivors believe in a God who cares. They believe in themselves. They believe in the correlation between luck and hard work. They believe in the greatness of their country and have decided on a unified front, to muster enough MOXIE to engage the enemy within. In some ways, we can influ-
ence good fortune with the attitude, motivation and oftentimes, with sheer moxie, with which we face our individual daily lives. If you expect bad things to happen to you or if you yourself confirm that you are unlucky, more than likely, it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy. You might as well admit it. You’re a sad sack Eeyore with a permanent, heavy and dark rain cloud hanging over your head. The negative energy you emit repels people who would otherwise be of help to you. You just might be the person who can brighten up a room simply by leaving it. Perhaps, it’s your personality and there’s nothing you can do about it, not even if you’ve soaked up the brightness of the sun. You were wired to be negative and pessimistic and no motivation outside of yourself can
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http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Expanded provisional waiver rule now in effect
The CTV Files Atty. Dennis ChuA, esq. PRIOR to the implementation of the Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver, undocumented individuals who are beneficiaries of an approved immigrant petition but are not eligible to adjust their status in the United States must travel to their home country to obtain an immigrant visa. Individuals who have accrued more than 180 days of unlawful presence while in the United States must file a waiver of inadmissible after they have been interviewed before a US consular officer to overcome the 3 year or 10 year bar. This has resulted in significant delays for these individuals to return to their families in the United States. The implementation of the provisional unlawful presence waiver has shortened the time that US citizen family members are separated from their immediate relatives (spouses, children and parents) by allowing these individuals to apply for the waiver of inadmissibility here in the United States. The applicants can later decide to travel to their home country to obtain their immigrant visas
once the provisional waiver application is approved. The Department of Homeland Security has published the Provisional Waiver Final Rule last July 29, 2016 and has taken effect on August 29, 2016. With the effectivity of this Rule, the provisional unlawful presence waiver process was expanded to cover all individuals statutorily eligible for an immigrant visa and a waiver of inadmissibility for unlawful presence in the United States. With the expansion of the Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver, all other family-sponsored or employment based beneficiaries as well as Diversity Visa Selectees are now covered. To be eligible for a provisional waiver, the applicant must fulfill all of the following conditions: • Be physically present in the United States to file the application and provide biometrics; • Be 17 years of age or older; • Be in the process of obtaining an immigrant visa and has an immigrant visa case pending with the Department of State because the applicant is: • The principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative; an approved Form I-140 Petition for Alien
Worker, or an approved Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian Worker, Widow(er) or Special immigrant who paid the immigrant visa processing fee; • Have been selected by the Department of State to participate in the Diversity Visa (DV) Program; • Be able to demonstrate that refusal of your admission to the United States will result in extreme h ardship to your qualifying relative ; Individuals who are eligible to apply for the provisional unlawful presence waiver process may want to take advantage of this new rule so that they may legalize their stay in the United States. *** Atty. Dennis E. Chua is a partner in The Law Firm of Chua Tinsay and Vega (CTV), a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and Manila. 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 (415) 495-8088; (619) 955-6277; Dchua@ctvattys.com. The CTV Attorneys will be at Max’s Restaurant in Vallejo on October 19, 2009 from 5pm to 7pm to hold a FREE legal clinic. (Advertising Supplement)
Business News
GDP growth pushing jobless rate down by Kristyn
niKa M. ManilaTimes.net
Lazo
THE impact of a steadily growing Philippine economy has been instrumental in bringing unemployment in the country down to its lowest level in perhaps 11 years, a Nomura research said. Nomura Global Economics said in its “Asia Chart Alert – Philippines: Another sharp drop in the unemployment rate,” the unemployment rate “fell sharply to 5.4 percent in the three months to July from the 6.1 percent rate as of April.” The report was released on Tuesday, Sept. 13. In the latest government Labor Force Survey (LFS), the Philippine Statistics Authority last week reported the unemployment rate eased to 5.4 percent in July 2016 from 6.5 percent a year earlier. The officially released govern-
Job fair
ment data also showed the un- 94.6 percent from 93.5 percent. deremployment rate declined to Joblessness in the country is 17.3 percent from 21 percent in expected to be alleviated further the year-earlier period, while the by higher budget allocations to employment rate increased to u PAGE CJ4
Travel agencies remain key tourism players – Teo by Mary
Grace Philstar.com
Padin
MANILA, Philippines — The chief of the Department of Tourism (DOT) emphasized the importance of personalized services offered by travel agencies despite the presence of new technologies that allow travelers to plan trips online. During a meeting with the Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA), Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo said travel agencies Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo
remain to be key players in the tourism industry because of the personalized service they provide travelers. “Travel agencies play a big role. They are very relevant,” Teo said. According to Teo, travel agencies have an advantage over online booking services as they add step-by-step assistance to tourists. Senator Richard Gordon, a former tourism chief, added travel
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Foreign capital nearly doubles…
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dent Benigno Aquino III. Data showed net equity capital inflows jumped 112 percent to $1.44 billion in the first six months of the year from $682 million in the same period last year. Equity placements increased 82.2 percent to $1.61 billion from $884 million, while withdrawals declined 18.2 percent to $166 million from $203 million. Bulk of the equity came from Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, US, and Taiwan. These were channeled to financial and insurance activities; real estate; manufacturing; construction; as well as accommodation and food service.
The BSP data also showed net investments in debt instruments or lending by parent companies abroad to their local affiliates to fund existing operations and business expansion more than doubled to $2.36 billion from $1.08 billion. For June alone, FDI inflows fell 41 percent to hit its lowest level of $238 million this year from $404 million in the same month last year. FDI inflows picked up in April with $2.24 billion in April after the Bank of Tokyo – Mitsubishi UFJ Ltd. pumped in P37 billion for a 20 percent stake in listed Security Bank Corp. Equity placements plunged 88.4 percent to $36 million in
June from $309 million in the same month last year, while withdrawals fell 56.4 percent to $41 million from $94 million. Investors remain wary about the volatile global financial markets brought about by the timing of the second round of interest rate hike by the US Federal Reserve as well as the decision of the United Kingdom to leave the European Union (Brexit) last June 23. The BSP sees FDI inflows rising to $6.3 billion this year amid the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals and the implementation of much needed infrastructure projects under the public private partnership (PPP) scheme. n
Jollibee eyes investment opportunities in US…
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Our biggest markets are outside such as China and the US so most likely it’s in one of those countries,” Baysa said. JFC also plans to bring Smashburger, the Colorado-headquartered burger giant it acquired last year, to Asia, possibly in the Philippines. “The focus of Smashburger is the US. That continues to be the focus but we’re considering opening it in some international markets. One of them can be the Philippines or some other countries,” Baysa said. Apart from the US, Smashburger is available in Panama, Costa Rica, Canada, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, England and Egypt. It has no presence yet in Asia. Last year, JFC acquired a 40percent stake in the casual burger brand for $100.25 million. Under the deal between the two burger giants, JFC has the option to purchase up to an additional 35 percent of Smashburger between 2018 and 2021 and the balance of 25 percent between
2019 at the earliest and 2026 at the latest. The purchase price for the remaining 60 percent will be based on the achievement of certain financial performance targets agreed by the parties. Smashburger serves fresh 100-percent certified Angus beef burgers. It has 339 restaurants with sales of approximately $339 million in 2015, equivalent to 12 percent of JFC’s estimated worldwide system wide sales for the same year. JFC reported a net income of P3.06 billion in the first half, up 13.4 percent from P2.7 billion a year ago on strong sales within and outside the Philippines. However, China’s sales fell 5.7 percent due to competitive pressure on Yonghe King, JFC’s largest brand there. But Baysa said the company expects to recover sales in China by the end of the year. “We’re confident we would be able to restore the growth because over the last few years we’ve been enjoying very good
growth. Now competitors are putting pressure but we think that’s temporary. It could be as early as the fourth quarter or early next year,” he said. Baysa said the company was looking forward to continued strong profit growth while preparing for likely higher inflation rate in 2017 in the Philippines and other parts of the world. JFC has earmarked P10.4 billion in capital expenditures this year, more than double the P4.7 billion spent in 2015. Of the amount, P7.5 billion will be used for new stores and renovations of existing stores. The group plans to build at least 200 new stores this year after opening 249 in 2015. The remaining P2.9 billion will mostly go to supply chain operations. JFC operates the largest food service network in the Philippines, with 2,528 restaurants as of the end of June. Its brands are Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal and Burger King. n
Community Journal
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Immigration Corner
EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card. ***
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The October 2016 priority dates The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: FAMILY CATEGORY:
Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 16-22, 2016
Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
May 1, 2006
August 1, 2005
First Preference
Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)
Second Preference
(2A) Spouse and minor children (below November 22, 21 years old) of green 2015 card holder
December 22, 2014
(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder
February 1, 2007
January 1, 2006
Third Preference
Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.
January 1, 1995
July 8, 1994
Fourth Preference
Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.
April 1, 1994
April 15, 1993
Application Filing Date
LABOR CERTIFICATION: Second Preference
Advanced Degree (Masters)
Third Preference
Professional/ Skilled Workers
Visa Issuance Date
Current
February 1, 2014
September 1, 2013
December 1, 2010
GET THE CHANCE TO HAVE YOUR IMMIGRATION QUESTIONS ANSWERED IMMEDIATELY WHEN ‘CITIZEN PINOY’ GOES LIVE ON SEPTEMBER 25! Kapamilya, we are excited to bring you yet another LIVE telecast of your favorite immigration program – CITIZEN PINOY. Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel is “excited about being able to answer your questions in real time.” Viewers are already encouraged to send in questions at www.facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw. The live telecast of “Citizen Pinoy” – will be seen on September 25, Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (EST/PST) on TFC.
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Bringing moxie…
undo you. You’re one tough customer for September 1, Non-Skilled December 1, Other Workers the Holy Spirit to work wonders Workers 2013 2010 with. Fine. But for as long as you think that you have nothing to do with the ill fortune that seems and New York. All immigration services are outcome of your legal matter. No attorney- to bedevil your life, you can just provided by, or under the supervision of, an client relationship is, or shall be, established live with the dire consequences active member of the State Bar of California. with any reader. of fear, anxiety and unhappiness Each case is different. The information WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com which result from being toxic contained herein including testimonials, Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for and always believing the worst of “Success Stories,” endorsements and re- anywhere in the US: everything. enactments) is of a general nature, and is not (866)—GURFINKEL Particularly during these unintended to apply to any particular case, and Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES certain times, no one can afford Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an does not constitute a prediction, warranty, · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES the luxury of a negative thought. (Advertising Supplement) But much more so for all those active member of the State Bar of California guarantee or legal advice regarding the on survival mode, an optimistic can-do attitude is a MUST. With this current economic morass, a big chunk of the pop-
Get answers to your immigration questions when Citizen Pinoy goes Live on September 25!
WE are excited to bring you ‘Citizen Pinoy’ live once more on September 25, 2016 on TFC. This gives viewers the chance to ask their immigration questions and get immediate answers! Many viewers shared similar reactions and feedback, and are looking forward to another live show.
Viewers are already encouraged to send in their questions via Facebook at www.facebook.com/ GurfinkelLaw. Save the date, and be sure to catch us when ‘Citizen Pinoy’ goes live on September 25, Sunday at 6:15 PM (Eastern/Pacific) on TFC.
Calendar of Events across
(Advertising Supplement)
America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS 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.
Free citizenship workshop in Orange County On Friday, Sept. 16, Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development (OCCORD) will help local green card holders take the first step towards becoming citizens through free events as part of the New Americans Campaign. This workshop will provide lawful permanent residents with free naturalization application assistance by professional and trained volunteers. Individuals will also receive legal counsel by pro-bono attorneys and legal experts. Services are available in Spanish, Korean and English. The workshop will be from 4 to 6 p.m. at Century High School, 1401 S. Grand Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705. Registration is required; please call 714-621-0919, ext. 13.
SEPTEMBER 17
The Filipino USPS Retirees Club of Los Angeles reunion The Filipino USPS Retirees Club of Los Angeles is having its 3rd anniversary reunion on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 12 p.m. to dusk. It will be held at Romy Vidal’s residence at 1998 Big Oak Ave., Chino Hills, CA 91709. To RSVP, please call Romy (951) 733-7140 or Lito (909) 263-4167.
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.
ulation along with many more in the middle class, will regress back to survival mode, quite by default. Many who have moved to more comfortable levels but were caught by the real estate slump and lost their homes, may find themselves sliding back to square one and engaging in the daunting prospect of finding a job. Do take heart. Most of us who come from poverty-stricken nations have what it takes to survive times such as these. Most of us came as immigrants and have gone through the long and tedious process to become fullfledged citizens of our adoptive country. Most of us have had plenty of practice. We have the scars to prove the battles we
have survived. We have learned to hunker down, to batten down the hatches during the storms. But there seems to be a change in the air and just perhaps, even with a deceptive lull just before more upheavals up ahead, the future is looking good. There is that faint light growing brighter at the end of a long dark tunnel. This slump, experts claim, is longer and deeper, than anyone can imagine. But as in everything else under the sun, THIS TOO SHALL PASS. And hopefully, very soon. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
Travel agencies remain key tourism players… PAGE CJ2 t
agencies offer a wider set of packages despite various options for “do-it-yourself” travels that can be booked online. For her part, PTAA president Maria Michelle Reyes-Victoria said even travel agencies are now adopting the use of technology in their businesses. “Travel agencies are starting to see the advantage of incorporating new technology and the use of social media in their operations. They still offer per-
sonalized service but are now more adept in using the new tools available to them,” Victoria said. She said travel agencies now develop mobile applications and online booking systems that offer multiple options for tourists. Meanwhile, Gordon also urged travel agencies to contribute to the tourism agenda of the government to promote inclusiveness in the communities across the country. “They must not be spectators.
They have to be part and parcel of the mission of creating packages, creating jobs, lobbying for better airports and better infrastructures,” he said. The senator also emphasized that the Philippines is not maximizing the potential of cultural and historical tourism despite the growing number of domestic tourists in the country. Gordon also pushed the DOT to look into the expansion and development of secondary gateways and ports in the country. n
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27th annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia Come and celebrate the 27th annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of Penafrancia, the patroness of Bicolandia. The grand fiesta will be on Saturday, Sept. 17, beginning with a concelebrated mass at 1 p.m., followed by a Fluvial Procession. It will be held at Liberty State Park, Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey, City, New Jersey 07305.
S E P T E M B E R 23
AAPA’s leadership symposium Join the Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) for an all-day event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with exceptional and diverse keynote speakers and panelists, as well as multiple workshops on diversity and leadership topics. The symposium is open to everyone, and will be held at the Pacific Palms Hotel, 1 Industry Hills Parkway, City of Industry, CA 91744. For more information, please visit http://aapamentoring.com/.
Fax résumé to:
S E P T E M B E R 24
PASCPA-Los Angeles dinner dance event Philippine American Society of Certified Public Accountants (PASCPA) is celebrating 30 years of promoting excellence for the future leaders! Join PASCPA on Saturday, Sept. 24 as it installs officers & board members and inducts new members of the organization. Networking will begin at 4:30 until 6:15 p.m. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. It will be held at Pickwick Gardens, 1001 Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA 91506. Attire is formal and there will be no host bar. A donation of $65 is required. For more information, please visit http://pascpa. org/.
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
info@asianjournalinc.com
CJ
SEPTEMBER 16-22, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
Business news
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
HRSA awards $14,778,805 to grow California’s health workforce and expand health professions training
No. of families with savings down in Q3 – BSP by Kristyn
niKa M. ManilaTimes.net
Lazo
THE number of Filipino households with savings slightly declined in the third quarter of 2016, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) latest Consumer Expectations Survey (CES). Only 33.1 percent of 5,810 households surveyed in July said they had saved some money, the central bank reported over the weekend, noting a dip from the 33.2 percent recorded in the previous quarter. About two-thirds, or 66.5 percent, had bank accounts, and 42.6 percent said they kept their savings at home, with 27.2 percent put their money in cooperatives, paluwagan (rotating savings and credit association), other credit or loan associations,
and investment. The savings were intended for emergencies, education, health and hospitalization, retirement, and business capital and investment. On the other hand, the percentage of respondents who said they were able to set aside some money for savings increased to 41.6 percent from 39.3 percent. The proportion of Filipinos willing to save 10 percent or more of their monthly income was also higher at 40 percent from 36.9 percent. The CES also revealed that households with savings from OFW remittances increased in the third quarter. Of the 500 households surveyed that received remittances from an overseas Filipino worker family member, 39.6 percent used the money sent home from
abroad for savings, which is higher than the 38.6 percent in the second quarter. The survey also found out respondents expect inflation to remain low, interest rates to increase and the exchange rate to appreciate for the next 12 months. Released on Friday by the central bank, the CES results also cited the perception of improved labor conditions next year with the unemployment index at its lowest reading since the survey started in the first quarter of 2007. The unemployment index was at -27.8 percent from 22.6 percent in the previous quarter, indicating a decline in the number of unemployed persons expected in the next 12 months. The third quarter 2016 CES polled 5,810 households nationwide from July 1 to 12. n
GDP growth pushing jobless rate…
THE Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) recently announced $14,778,805 in new awards to 38 organizations in California. The awards were part of $149 million given nationally through 12 workforce programs to prepare the next generation of skilled, diverse primary care providers to serve communities in need across the country. “These awards will help increase access to quality health care for all Americans by educating and training culturally competent providers who are prepared to practice in high-need areas,” said HRSA Acting Administrator Jim Macrae. “By encouraging partnerships among academic institutions, clinicians, health care sites and public health entities, we can improve health outcomes in underserved communities.” HRSA’s education and training grants support the development of a workforce that can meet 21st century needs through an emphasis on diversity, distribution of clinicians, and quality services that encourage innovative team-based and interprofessional approaches. “Our vision is to positively impact every aspect of the health professional’s career, from education and training to service,” said Macrae. “These awards will increase the number of health
professionals providing quality care to the nation’s most vulnerable populations.” The new grants were awarded through the following programs: • Primary Care Training and Enhancement ($14.5 million) funds 33 grants to hospitals, medical schools, academically affiliated physician assistant training programs and other entities to improve the quality, quantity, distribution, and diversity of the primary care workforce through curriculum enhancement and training program expansion. • Advance Education Nursing Traineeship ($22.9 million) provides grants to 69 advanced nursing programs that support the training of advanced practice nurses, emphasizing the critically important role nurses play in delivering primary health care services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. • Advanced Nursing Education ($11.3 million) funds 19 projects that develop and test innovative academic-practice partnership models for clinical training and prepare primary care advanced practice nursing students to provide safe, quality care. • Graduate Psychology Education ($7.7 million) supports 31 grants to prepare psychologists to use an integrated and interprofessional approach to specifically address the behavioral health
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Grand opening for Concord’s new pickleball courts
RESIDENTS are invited to the grand opening of Concord’s new pickleball courts on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 9 a.m. at Willow Pass Community Park, East Olivera Road and Salvio Street. Following the ofPAGE CJ2 t added. investment-led,” Nomura said. ficial ribbon cutting, several activities for all ages infrastructure development as According to central bank data will take place on the courts, along with demon“Employment growth has, promised by the Duterte admin- indeed, been broad-based, in- also released on Tuesday, the net strations by local players and free giveaways. istration. creasing in the manufacturing FDI inflow reached $4.2 billion in Pickleball is a low impact paddle sport played “On a seasonally adjusted ba- and construction sectors, and the first half of the year – up 94.9 on a badminton-sized court with a slightly modisis, we estimate that it dropped still holding up in services. This percent from $2.2 billion a year fied tennis net, a large ping pong like paddle and to 5.3 percent from 5.9 percent, is likely to continue as the gov- earlier. a plastic whiffle ball. Created for all ages and skill the lowest print since the new ernment is focused on making Going forward, Nomura said levels, the simple rules of the game make it easy series was adopted in 2005. This, growth more inclusive and on ac- the decline in the unemploy- for beginners to learn. But don’t be fooled, it can we believe, reflects not just elec- celerating infrastructure spend- ment rate “is consistent with develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game tion-related effects but is a con- ing,” the research report said. our CPI [consumer price index] for experienced players. tinuation of an unemployment “These, along with further re- inflation forecast that it moves During a recent resurfacing of eight tennis downtrend in recent years due forms in the pipeline, should, in toward the upper end of the cen- courts at the park, four courts were repainted to to sustained economic growth our view, help attract more for- tral bank’s 2-4 percent target by create the 14 new pickleball courts. Concord Parks which is becoming increasingly eign direct investment [FDI],” it next year.” n and Recreation first offered pickleball classes two
AUTO SALES
needs of underserved and/or rural populations, and to integrate behavioral health into primary care practice. • Academic Units for Primary Care Training and Enhancement ($4.4 million) provides 6 grants to improve clinical teaching and research in primary care training in order to strengthen the primary care workforce. • Nurse Anesthetist Traineeship ($2.3 million) funds 80 nurse anesthetist education programs to provide traineeships to licensed registered nurses enrolled as full-time students in a master’s or doctoral nurse anesthesia program. • Nurse Education Practice Quality and Retention - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Practicums in Community Settings ($3.1 million) provides 9 grants to increase experiential training opportunities for seniorlevel BSN students in primary care community-based settings by establishing and expanding upon academic-practice partnerships between schools of nursing and community-based clinical sites and providing students with training in medically underserved and rural communities. • Nurse Education Practice Quality and Retention - Interprofessional Collaborative Practice: Behavioral Health Integration ($4.3 million) provides 9 grants
years ago, and demand has steadily increased. A large contingent of players requested the creation of the permanent courts with plans to expand sports opportunities for kids and adults of all ages. A Pickleball league is planned for this fall and the Willow Pass Park Pickleball courts will be the host site for the Senior Games Encore Tournament in November with winners qualifying for the National Senior Game championships to be held in Birmingham, Alabama next June. “This is one of the largest pickleball complexes that we’re aware of in Northern California,” said Parks and Recreation Director Steve Voorhies. “We’re excited to have teams from all over the Bay Area come to Concord to play. In addition, this is a great sport for the whole family so we hope to see many Concord residents on the courts.” For more information, contact Program Coordinator Kathryn Monroy at (925) 671-3423. n
EMPLOYMENT
FOSTER HOMECARE
PSYCHIC
(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com
Bay Area SunShares THE City of San Carlos is part of a coalition of cities participating in Bay Area SunShares - a community-wide clean energy program that makes access to residential solar and zero-emission vehicles simple and affordable. The program includes discounts, free workshops and can even help renters find out more about their clean energy options. If you’ve ever thought about installing solar or buying a zeroemissions vehicle but don’t know where to start, Bay Area SunShares is here to help! Bay Area SunShares pools the buying power of individual participants to get more competitive pricing from solar companies and vehicle manufacturers. Here is how the SunShares
Program works: • Workshops will be given to help residents/employees understand the basics of solar, zeroemission vehicles, financing options, your options as a renter and answer any questions. • Three pre-vetted solar installers were selected and will work with you to schedule your home solar evaluation. Register by November 4th to receive a no-cost solar proposal. Once you receive a proposal, there is no obligation to move forward with your project. • Sign your solar contract by November 18, 2016 to move forward with solar installation and take advantage of the discounted program pricing. • Preview the exciting zero-
PeoPle & events
silver maple, northern red oak, and Colorado blue spruce. “These trees are carefully selected to yield year-round benefits, including beautiful spring flowers, cool summer shade, spectacular autumn colors, winter berries, and nesting sites for songbirds,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “These trees will also add to the proud heritage of your state’s Tree City USA communities.” Harris continued. “For the past 40 years, Tree City USA has supported effective urban forestry management across the country, and planting these trees will enhance this tree-planting tradition.” The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting
California Coastal Clean Up in San Bruno
SATURDAY, Sept. 17, is California’s Coastal Clean Up! This is San Bruno’s second year participating in the state-wide event, where volunteers help clean up not only the beaches, but all participating communities, especially those who drain to the bay. If you are interested in participating for a few hours of community service and picking up trash, meet your friends and neighbors at 9 a.m. starting at San Bruno’s Posy Park (in front of the Centennial Mosaic at the San Bruno CalTrain station). 1. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
2. Remember that the weather changes frequently, wear a hat for sun protection and layers to be prepared for warm or cool weather. 3. Bring water to stay hydrated. 4. Gloves, trash bags & pickers will be supplied at the meeting station. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact Irene O’Connell IOConnell@sanbruno.ca.gov or the San Mateo Countywide Water Pollution Prevention Program Coordinator, Julia Au, (650) 372-6250 or jau@smcgov.org. n
Corazon Roco Pelayo
(February 2, 1963 - September 10, 2016)
CORAZON “Cory” Roco Pelayo of Makati, passed away last Saturday, September 10 at 11:30 a.m. at the University of the East-Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Quezon City. She was 53. Born on February 2, 1963 in Sampaloc, Manila to parents Jose and Socorro Roco, Cory was the beloved baby of her family and the youngest among her siblings Emmanuel, Ricardo, Felicidad, Elena, Victoria and Carmelo. She married Joel Pelayo and was blessed to have Stephen Joshua and Charles Justin. Cory was a gentle, happy and relaxed person who loves her family, most especially her two sons. Seeing them grow and became adults on their own was her greatest happiness. Viewing and wake was last September 11 to September 14 at Magallanes Church, Magallenes Village, Makati City. Interment will be later announced. n
HRSA awards $14,778,805… PAGE CJ4 t
to integrate interprofessional and collaborative models of behavioral health services into routine nurse-led primary care delivered to vulnerable and underserved populations. • Nurse Faculty Loan Program ($24.4 million) provides grants to 89 nursing schools to increase the number of qualified nursing faculty in the United States. Support from this program allows nursing schools to offer eligible students partial loan forgiveness when they graduate and serve as full-time nursing faculty. • Nursing Workforce Diversity ($4.5 million) provides 13 grants to increase nursing education opportunities for individuals from
disadvantaged backgrounds, including racial and ethnic minorities underrepresented among registered nurses, by providing student scholarships or stipends for various levels of nursing degree programs. • Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award ($7.4 million) provides 20 grants to train postdoctoral health care professionals in primary care research. • Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students ($42.3 million) enables 78 health professions schools to provide scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have financial need in order to increases diversity in the health workforce. n
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SFMTA and San Francisco Beautiful announce winners for Muni Art 2017 Final five have until Nov. 4 to submit work themed “San Francisco Neighborhoods”
emission vehicle offerings. To see the deals and to receive your discount code, register at www. bayareasunshares.org by November 4, 2016. The City of San Carlos is excited to be participating in Bay Area SunShares and happy to provide residents with educational resources related to clean energy. To sign up for Bay Area SunShares, register for a free workshop or to find out more about the program, please visit: www. bayareasunshares.org. n
Join the Arbor Day Foundation in September and receive 10 free trees EVERYONE who joins the Arbor Day Foundation in September will receive 10 free trees as part of the Foundation’s Trees for America program. Through Trees for America, everyone is encouraged to plant trees, which benefit the environment and improves quality of life. With nearly 1 million members and supporters, the Arbor Day Foundation is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. Everyone joining this month will receive one of the following tree packages based on their location: 10 Arizona Cypress, 10 Live Oak or 10 Mix trees including eastern redbud, white pine, sugar maple, white flowering dogwood, pin oak, red maple, river birch,
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 16-22, 2016
between October 15 and December 10. The 6- to 12-inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge. Easy-to-follow planting instructions are enclosed with each shipment of trees. New members of the Arbor Day Foundation will also receive The Tree Book, which includes information about tree planting and care. To receive the 10 free trees, send a $10 membership contribution to Ten Trees, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410, by September 30, 2016, or join online at arborday.org/september. n
SAN FRANCISCO — The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and San Francisco Beautiful (SFB) recently announced the five winners of the 2017 Muni Art Project. This year’s theme is “San Francisco Neighborhoods” and the five winning artists will have their original work displayed on 100 Muni buses that will be transformed into rolling original art galleries throughout San Francisco beginning January 2017. Of the over 53 applications received, ten artists were chosen to compete for the final five slots by a jury comprised of individuals of the arts community including a member of the San Francisco Arts Commission, local art gallery owner, a working artist, community arts programmer and a curator at a public art cultural center. Decisions were based upon quality of concept, expression of theme, diversity and the likelihood of the artist to be able to deliver the completed work by the November 4th deadline. The 10 finalists were then voted on by the public between August 1-29 via a link from the San Francisco Beautiful web site to Neighborhoodland.com that tabulated the winning votes and the five lucky winners. The winners with final vote tabulations:
Teens of SF, Monica Tiulescu (606 votes) Bit by Bit, Lillian Shanahan (446 votes) Las Historias, Luis Pinto (443 votes) City Walks, Counterpoint Studio (Peter Tonningsen and Lisa Levine) (443 votes) Sight Seeing, Todd Kurnat (443 votes) “Every year the public vote is so exciting,” said Darcy Brown, Executive Director of San Francisco Beautiful. “This project is such an important addition to the San Francisco arts scene because it highlights five local artists and gets their work in front of, not only the thousands of people who participate in the vote but over 700,000 Muni riders every day for four months. What young artist doesn’t dream of an opportunity like that?” “This project is a win-win for both the artists and the riding public who were engaged in the voting process from the very beginning,” said SFMTA Director of Transportation, Ed Reiskin. “These local artists can be proud to showcase their work across our city, which will add another round of engaging art to our Muni trips.” The thrilled first prize winner, Monica Tiulescu added, “I couldn’t be happier to see my paintings of SF teens all over
San Francisco. I am grateful for all the support I received from people I know and do not know throughout the country.” In addition to each artist having 20 Muni buses to use as a canvas, the artist who received the most public votes will be awarded a $2,000 cash prize with each of the remaining four awarded $1,250. The winners now have until November 4 to create and submit completed work that will be printed to conform to the specifications of Muni display space. In this second year of the Muni Art program, the SFMTA is doubling the number of buses on which the art will be displayed from 50 to 100.All 100 busses are expected to be fully installed with art by the first weeks in January 2017. The Muni Art program is funded in part by the Community Challenge Grant program which facilitates neighborhood beautification projects throughout San Francisco. For more details on sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.sfbeautiful.org/ muniart. For more details on the final five winners of the Muni Art Project, please visit www.sfbeautiful. org/muni-art. Examples of each artists’ work can be found at the SFMTA Muni Art webpage sfmta. com/muniart. n
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SEPTEMBER 16-22, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Friday, September 16, 2016
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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 16, 2016
The automobile: A symbol of innovation by Klarize
Medenilla /AJPress
In just over a century, the automotive industry has accelerated, making it one of the most evolutionary industries. The nature of the car industry is that it’s always evolving and improving on its latest innovation. When the automobile was first introduced, the world changed, ushering a new era of modernity. How did it begin? The concept of the automobile was born from French and German designers. Inventor Karl Benz of Germany invented a three-wheeled “Motorwagen.” Then in 1901, engineers Wilhelm Maybach and Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft designed the Mercedes which was the first modern motor car with all the fixings, including an lightweight 35-horsepower engine that performed a speed of 53 mph. But it was the Americans who perfected the industry as a
whole. Bicycle mechanics J. Frank and Charles E. Duryea designed the first successful gasoline automobile in 1893. By 1899, 30 American manufacturers produced 2,500 cars. Come the 20th century, there were more than 485 U.S. companies entering into the booming industry. Americans were also the first to introduce the car dealership. In 1896 in Detroit — which would be known as the birthplace of the automobile industry — William Metzger established the first independent car dealership. Then the tide shifted which not only propelled the car industry, but modern invention as a whole. In 1913, the assembly line — developed by Model T inventor Henry Ford — allowed for mass production and became a standard in manufacturing. Cars became more affordable and more widely accessible, and American manufacturers
Engineers Wilhelm Maybach and Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft
Photo from www.autowallpaper.de
The Mercedes, the first modern car designed by Wilhelm Maybach and Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft in 1 901. Photo from www.mercedesbenz.com
Industrialist Henry Ford, founder of Ford Motor Company, developed the first assembly line Photo from Wikipedia
produced about 485,000 of the more than 606,000 automobiles made in 1913. “One hundred years ago, my great-grandfather had a vision to build safe and efficient transportation for everyone,” Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford said. “I am proud he was able to bring the freedom of mobility to millions by making cars affordable to families and that his vision of serving people still drives everything we do today.” A focus on safety Although its history is brief, the automobile industry has seen exponential advancements with a strong emphasis on improving safety features. In the 1940s, inventor Samuel W. Alderson invented the crash test dummy which allowed car manufacturers test the reliability of safety equipment and protocol. Then in the 1950s, Swedish engineer nils Bohlin invented the three-point safety belt which would become the modern standard of automobile safety belts. First introduced in Volvo’s automobiles, the Y-shaped design was considered revolutionary and responsible for saving many lives. In the 1960s, manufacturers started seeing the value and necessity in safety belts. In 1964, the Studebaker-Packard Corporation became the first company to introduce seat belts as a standard in all of its cars. Four years later, Allen Breed introduced the world’s first elecContinued on Page SF5
Continued on Page SF5
features SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – September 16, 2016
Coco Zhang-Miske: How a former dancer made her mark in the car industry Global technology planning manager for Buick, GMC and GM China Strategy at General Motors by Christina
M. Oriel /AJPress
GROWING up in Chongqing, China, Coco Zhang-Miske thought she would have a professional career in dancing. her early training in gymnastics — beginning at the age of 6 — soon segued into the art of dance years later. From there, she moved to Beijing to study classic Chinese dance at the Beijing Dance Academy and was an operatic dancer with the China Operatic Dance Troupe. When she migrated to the United States, she continued dancing by teaching lessons at studios owned by friends. however, a point came when she realized she was meant to pursue something else. She jumped into fashion design during her first year at Michigan State University because it was related to her background in arts. But, she found herself attracted to math and science, and changed her major to mathematics. “When I started [college], one of my professors called me into the office within the first month because I only learned math and science to an extent in China because I was dancing. I was struggling during the first month or two of college. It was overwhelming having all those
technical terms in english. I had a very difficult time,” ZhangMiske told the Asian Journal in a recent interview. “he asked, ‘are you sure you want to do this?’ and I knew this is what I wanted to do.” From mathematics, she eventually changed her major to electrical engineering. Despite her lack of practical knowledge in the field, she showed up to an engineering job fair with her résumé — filled with art and dance jobs — in tow anyway. Most of the companies did not give her the chance to explain her background or they told her to come back the following year after she gained more experience. however, one pivotal conversation with an engineer from General Motors (GM) changed the course of her future. “he was very curious about why I changed from dancing to engineering. he was fascinated with my background and saw my potential. he ended up offering me an internship, which was very exciting, especially being a first-year student with no background,” she said, describing her first internship in the manufacturing controls department. The following summer, she
Buick Cascada
By Monet
Lu
The face that captured the Universe—and emerged as 1st runner-up—at the 2012 Miss Universe pageant has once again conquered the international scene. This time, as one of Victoria Secret’s models for its “Pink” fashion line, making Janine Tugonon the first full-blooded Filipina to be part of the prestigious brand. As she ventured into the international modeling scene after her success in the said pageant, she is now making strides and indeed making us proud kababayans. The ad, released online on Tuesday, Sept. 6, shows Janine and other models as students. Victoria’s Secret Pink is mainly targeted to younger women and/or college-aged women. Featured in its latest TV ad are women celebrating their lives as students. Janine stars with three other models who are shown living through the challenges of college life. When the ad launched, Janine could not contain her excitement and shared the clip on her social media pages immediately. “I had so much fun shooting this with you,” Tugonon wrote as she posted the Victoria’s Secret Pink ad on her Instagram page and tagged her fellow models. her gig with the iconic fashion brand had drawn praises and support from many Filipinos. Those who have supported Tugonon even during her Binibining Pilipinas days (that includes me) were not surprised to see their favorite candidate continuing her path to greatness. I know Janine. As I’ve said I’ve always been one of her supporters when she represented the Philippines in Miss Universe four years ago. I was in there in Las Vegas when she competed. I bet she would win and though she didn’t go home with the title that night, being crowned as the first runner-up is just as honorable as winning the pageant. A few years following the pageant, she moved to the states to continue modeling and is now a ramp model for MSA models. I still see her once in a while at her former mentor Jonas Gaffud’s events. I actually invited her to The Beautiful Life Celebra-
Coco Zhang-Miske at the Asian American Journalists Association conference with a Buick Cascada in the background
was offered another manufacturing internship at the vehicle corporation. her performance as an intern was impressive enough that when she graduated from college, she was immediately hired as a manufacturing controls engineer, a position she held for three years before transitioning as a design release engineer. While working, she was also able to receive a master’s degree in energy systems engineering at the University of Michigan, which exposed her to the world of alternative fuel and energy and electric vehicles and gave her the knowledge to move to the global hybrid battery system engineering department. “I’ve been very fortunate during my time at GM because the company gave me the opportunity to experience completely different divisions,” Continued on Page SF5
Janine Tugonon: Victoria Secret’s first fullblooded Filipina model
tion, which is an annual commemorative event in recognition of remarkable Filipino-Americans in the U.S. Janine also graced the cover of harper’s Bazaar Vietnam last year and strutted in the high-end runways during the New York Fashion Week / Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. She opened and closed the show for an LA-based designer erik Rosete. She also modeled for Oscar De La Renta who closed the Australian Fashion Week this year. According to her bio, Janine was born in Orion, Bataan in the Philippines. Aside from working as a model, she also did TV hosting in the Philippines. Janine finished her Pharmacy degree with Latin honours (Cum Laude) at the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas in Manila and became a Licensed Pharmacist in June 2010. She also attended the Ballet School of Manila as a ballet protégé while attending university. In 2010, Tugonon was titled Miss Pharmacy and Miss Thomasian Personality 2010 at the Gingoog City Colleges When Janine won first runner-up to Olivia Culpo of the USA in Miss Universe 2012, she was the only Asian to place in the top 3. During the final question and answer portion of the competition Tugonon was asked a question via Twitter and read by judge Nigel Barker: “As an international ambassador, do you believe that speaking english should be a prerequisite to being Miss Universe? Why or why not?”
To which our witty representative Janine Tugonon replied: “For me, being Miss Universe is not just about knowing how to speak a specific language – it is being able to influence and inspire other people. So whatever language you have, as long your heart is to serve and you have a strong mind to show to people, then, you can be Miss Universe.” The memory was so vivid. I was there when she spoke those words that swept the judges off their feet. I, on the other hand, had nothing but hope; admittedly, I expected her to win the crown. When the Miss Universe 2012 was announced, I looked at Janine and all I saw was a promising future for this wonderful lady. True enough, I was right. Because even after that fateful night, she is again showing the whole universe that the secret to being recognized for your dedication is to press on (no matter what) and enjoy the ride. To Janine, you’ve come a long way, dear. Keep on keeping on and stay as confident and wise as you are. You’ll always have my cheers and support. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
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celebrityworld
The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 16, 2016
celebrity world By Ferdie Villar AFter weeks of rumors and silence from Kris Aquino’s camp, the Queen of All Media finally confirmed on social media that she is indeed leaving ABS-CBN, which had been her home network for 20 years. In a three-part Instagram post early Monday morning, Sept. 12, Kris shared her side on why she is leaving the Kapamilya network. Her first post explained how she was supposed to renew her contract last February, but at that time there was a threat to her life and needed to take it seriously. Also, Kris added that she had to take time to regain her health and be with her family. “We didn’t sign then, I went to Hawaii, came back to campaign, then left again.
“Our agreement was we’d talk when I got back. “that is the risk of taking time for yourself- when you come back there’s no guarantee that a space will be held for you. “We spoke in July but there was no definite show & no assured time frame of my return on air. “I perfectly understood- as much as I wanted to believe I was a pillar of the network, everybody is dispensable. “And I say that with no bitterness- just HONeStY. “So to all of you saying please don’t leave- it wasn’t a choice that was just mine to make. I take my share of the responsibility. “And I say that w/ so much gratitude in my heart.” Although Kris did not say
What’s next for the Queen of All Media?
which network she is transferring, she did announce that she will be part of APt entertainment which is owned by tony tuviera, producer of the longestrunning noontime show, “eat Bulaga!” So what’s next for Kris? Sources say that she will start taping for her new show that will be produced by APt and will be aired on GMA Network. the source also said that the program format is different from what Kris has done for ABS-CBN, meaning it will not be a talk show. No other details were shared because apparently, one of the agreements between
GMA 7’s Primetime King and Queen Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera will be in San Francisco on Friday, September 23, for their concert entitled, “DongYan Laugh Trip sa America” at the Nourse Theater. The Queen of All Media Kris Aquino finally broke her silence and confirmed that she is leaving ABS-CBN after working with the network for 20 years.
Handsome actor Tom Rodriguez is one of the lead stars of GMA’s newest teleserye, “Someone to
Beautiful actress Lovi Poe is one of the lead stars of GMA’s newest teleserye, “Someone to Watch Over Me.”
Comedienne Joy Viado passed away last Saturday, Sept. 10, due to a heart attack at the age of 57. Last year, Joy’s leg was almost amputated due diabetes but doctors were able to save it after her friends and colleagues in the industry raised funds to pay for her medical needs.
Actress Isabelle Daza is shown with her mother, former Miss Universe and actress Gloria Diaz, during her wedding last Saturday, September 10, at the San Francesco church in Tuscany, Italy. The ABS-CBN actress Instagram photo by @rajolaurel tied the knot with her French boyfriend Adrien Semblat.
Kris and APt was there will be no advance announcements or statements about the show. Let’s wait and see how things will turn out for Kris in her new home network.
Handsome actor Paulo Avelino has returned to ABSCBN via the teleserya “Ang Probinsyano.”
Pinay wows ‘X-Factor UK’ judges with powerful performance by AlixAndrA
CAole Philstar.com
VilA
MANILA, Philippines — “Oh my God! What just happened there?!” Simon Cowell who was obviously astonished quips after listening to Ivy Grace Paredes’ audition song. Paredes, a Filipino who hails from Malaybalay, Bukidnon went for an audition on “X-Factor UK” on September 11. With only less three minutes to impress the judges, Paredes went all in and did her own rendition of Whitney Houston’s “All the Man I Need.” Her performance was quickly applauded by the judges. Asked why she decided to do the auditions, Paredes said: “For me, I believe this is the biggest competition and I want to be a part of it. X Factor can
Ivy Grace Paredes, a Filipino who hails from Malaybalay, Bukidnon went for an audition at “X-Factor” UK on September 11.
give me the stepping stones I need to do good in the future because this is all for my daughter.” Paredes is the latest Filipino to step on the “X-Factor UK”
stage. A report from Digital Spy said Paredes was inspired by 4th Impact, a Filipino girl group that finished fifth place in the last season of the reality talent search.
Lovi Poe reveals saddest day of her life by dolly
Anne CArVAjAl Inquirer.net
LOvI Poe gets out of her comfort zone in GMA 7’s drama series, “Someone to Watch Over Me” (weeknights after “Descendants of the Sun”). She portrays a dutiful wife to her hubby (played by tom rodriguez), who has early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Lovi’s lacrimal glands will be working overtime, and so will ours as we watch her turn into an “insignificant other” to her ailing husband. Let the crying game begin. Here’s my chat with Lovi: If you could relive one moment you had with your dad (the late Fernando Poe Jr.), which would it be? the last time I saw him; that was the saddest day of my life. I’d like to feel what I felt that day again. I need it for my art. What are your limits when it comes to love? When the relationship becomes destructive and does not allow one’s individual self to grow, that for me is a red
flag—meaning, it’s time to go. What will make you want to get married? Not age… I’ll only get married when I know I’ve achieved everything I wanted as an individual—and of course [when I meet] the right man. What do you find hard to understand about men? Nothing, really. they’re not that complicated—or maybe I just got lucky? If you were married and you learned that your husband has a mistress, how would you
handle it? Difficult question. I’ll weigh things out—maybe work it out, or leave. What did you tell your sister, Grace Poe, after she lost in the presidential election? What I remember was, before election day itself… that no matter what the result was, I’d still be proud of her. She kept her integrity intact. If your life were made into a movie, what would the title be and who would portray you? “elle.” Jennifer Lawrence.
The automobile...
More than just transportation As cars evolved, their use as a status symbol became just as important as its function as a means of transportation. As more and From Page SF2 vehicle was perfected in the 21st more brands became available, century. Interest in hybrid cars tromechanical automotive airbag jumped in 2008 as consumers be- one’s car became an extension of his or her socioeconomic status system with his “sensor and safety gan choosing cars that consume system.” In 1973, General Motors less fuel and contribute less to the and personality. What you drive says a lot about you, much like pollution. would be the first company to the music you listen to or the Typically, hybrid cars have at include the passenger airbag as least two power sources: standard clothes you wear. a standard in their commercial If you’re cruising down the fuel and an electric motor that automobiles. road in a luxury car like a RollsAsian manufacturers emerge recharges. Toyota makes a wide range of hybrid cars including the Royce or a Cadillac, you’re For a while, American car perceived to belong on the Yaris, Camry Hybrid, Highlander companies were seen as the upper echelon of society. If you leaders in the industry, but manu- Hybrid and the ever-popular drive a Toyota Prius or any other Prius. Other hybrid cars include facturers in the Far East were hybrid vehicle, you are seen as a the Ford Escape, Chevrolet Vault making big moves. Toyota and more environmentally conscious Nissan were toe-to-toe in Japan’s and Lexus RX 400h. person. Now on the rise are electric domestic market, but both comThe automobile industry cars, which are propelled by one panies would be favorites in the today and tomorrow U.S. by the 1990s. Americans saw or more electric motor that uses Today, the automobile indusenergy from rechargeable batJapanese cars as more valuable try is more expansive and innovaas they tended to last longer and teries or other devices that store tive than ever. Drivers may enjoy energy. As of December 2015, were more reliable. there are more than 30 models of the convenience of a sensible By 2000, Japan became used Toyota Camry or splurge on all-electric cars available at retail, the largest nation to produce but with the industry’s propensity a brand new Tesla Model 3. The cars, but saw competition from to change, they may soon be the options for automobiles are endSouth Korea, China and India less and every driver is bound to throughout the decade. However, standard. find a set of wheels suited to their “I’ve actually made a prewhen the recession hit in 2008 unique needs. diction that within 30 years, a and the American automobile Due to its innovative nature, majority of new cars made in the industry took a major toll, Toyota United States will be electric. And the industry is constantly movsurpassed General Motors to ing towards more efficiency and become the world’s largest manu- I don’t mean hybrid. I mean fully safety. In the future, all-electric electric,” said Elon Musk, CEO facturer. and self-driving cars may become and product architect of Tesla Ushering in the green car an industry standard just as Motors, a leading manufacturer Environmentally conscious yesterday’s innovations like the of energy storage and electric vehicles date back to the 1800s, seatbelt or the airbag. automobiles. but the gasoline-electric hybrid
Coco Zhang-Miske... From Page SF2 she said. Today, Zhang-Miske marks her ninth year at GM and is currently the global technology planning manager for Buick (one of the company’s brands), GMC and GM China strategy. Under this position, she manages the technology strategy for the brands and develops ideas based on technology intelligence and trends. The achievements in her role have garnered accolades, including a 2014 Crain’s Detroit Business 40 under 40 award and a place on Detroit TechWeek100’s list in 2015. She also gets to do a lot of traveling: to China several times a year to promote the brand and ensure that the products made in that country are of equal quality and performance to those manufactured in the U.S.; and to California to meet with suppliers and the research & development team to discuss
new technologies. “Right now GM is a big global company. A lot of car parts are manufactured in the U.S. and we do a lot of collaboration overseas. Even though cars are built in China, it is important that since we are under one big global umbrella, all of those manufacturing processes are similar,” she said. According to a Washington Post report earlier this year, Buick sold 1.2 million vehicles around the world in 2015, with 80 percent being sold in China. The Envision, which is Chinesemade, has particularly been a successful model. With cars these days being more and more innovative, Zhang-Miske noted that it makes her job even more thrilling. (She even gets to own a new car every six months to test it out.) “I’m very excited about the future of the vehicle. Right now, people are [embrac-
ing] autonomous vehicles and electric vehicles. A few years ago, people were concerned about electric vehicles, whether they’d run out of battery or how to charge them. It was only a matter of three to four years with the progression of electric vehicles,” she said. She added that car sharing, especially in China, will also continue to be a widespread transportation method to ease traffic and improve air quality. As an Asian American woman, Zhang-Miske said she was quickly embraced by the GM culture from the get-go. “Ever since day one, I’ve been comfortable. I really like people — I like to meet and interact with them and ask questions. They haven’t looked at me different because I’m female and Asian. Sometimes, I struggle with the English language because of my accent, but everyone has been patient,” she said. Another positive aspect of her role at GM is how she’s been able to share her culture.
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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 16, 2016
Fremont Toyota: Going an extra mile for their clients
BUYING a new car can be a nerve-wracking experience. Even with research, it is always easy to fall into the trap of buying the wrong car, or in most cases, not getting a good deal. So it is essential that you should go to a trusted and reliable car dealer, one that puts client satisfaction on top of their list. At Fremont Toyota, you can be assured that closing a sale only comes second to a customer’s needs and satisfaction. “We practice to go the extra mile for our clients,” said Fremont Toyota sales staff Maria Bernalyn Munoz. “By this, I treat them in a more personal level to build and attain a more conducive and comfortable working relationship with them. To be able to do this, one has to see things in the long term.” Munoz also added that Fremont Toyota gives its employees weekly training to improve customer service and refresh/add more knowledge about the products and services they offer. The dealership is a premier California Toyota dealer and has a huge selection of new and used vehicles from which to choose from. It is also the #1 Toyota dealer in Northern California (based on retail sales data for 2015). One of the perks of buying a new car from Toyota is that they provide a basic warranty for three (3) years and power train warranty of five (5) years or 60,000 miles. Also, Toyota provides 2-year free maintenance for every 5,000 miles Her experiences include past president of GM’s Chinese Employee Resource Group, board member of the Detroit Chinese Engineers Association and founder of Michigan’s first National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) chapter. By sponsoring events like Asian culture festivals and the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) and NAAAP conferences, it shows how GM is committed
Fremont Toyota sales executives Steve Reyes and Bernz Munoz.
They also offer service & parts, an online inventory, and outstanding financing options — making Fremont Toyota a great place to purchase a car. But most of all, Fremont Toyota promises to make your car-buying experience pleasant and easy. Munoz stressed the importance of honesty on their side and the client as well. “We also [try] to make them as comfortable as they can be with us for them to deliver their concerns about buying a car,” she said, adding that listening
to the client’s concerns is also an important key to knowing what they need. “Lastly, being straightforward and giving them the complete information will lead to a smooth transaction and leave our clients happy and satisfied.” Visit Fremont Toyota now at 5851 Cushing Parkway, Fremont, CA 94538 or call Bernz Munoz at (415) 810-5188 and/or Steve Reyes at (209) 204-0400.
to reaching out to the Asian American community, ZhangMiske said. “Through those organizations, we do a lot of seminars, community outreach and diversity initiatives to introduce the Asian culture and connect them to the local GM strategy,” she said. “Unfortunately a lot of people in the Asian community are not familiar with American vehicles. They are more experienced and have a mindset about Asian and European
models. We are trying our best to introduce to them a new side of GM products. We give the audience the opportunity to check out vehicles, ask questions and drive our vehicles.” As for advice for Asian American professionals, she said to not be afraid and limit oneself. “In Asian culture, it’s a habit to hold back. Ask questions and don’t hold back,” she shared. “Trust yourself and believe in yourself.”
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The As ian Jour na l SF M A G A Z I NE - Sept em b e r 1 6 , 2 0 1 6
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