San Francisco Edition -- November 25 -- December 1, 2016

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Volume 15 - No. 48 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

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DATELINE

USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

The future of DACA under the Trump administration

N O V E MBE R 2 5 - DE C E MBE R 1 , 2 0 1 6

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

FVR on ‘sneaky’ Marcos burial: An ‘insult’ to veterans by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

ONE of President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign promises was a strict crackdown on immigration to the United States. In that promise, he expressed commitment to ending many of President Barack Obama’s immigration policies, including the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which was introduced in President Barack Obama 2012. Holding his first press conference since the election, Obama urged the new president-elect to think twice

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Cal State University system to protect undocumented immigrants

FINALLY RESTING. In this photo provided by the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs Headquarters Philippine Army (OACPA HPA), soldiers prepare to fold the flag-draped casket of the late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos during his burial at the Heroes’ Cemetery in Taguig City, east of Manila on Friday, Nov. 18. OACPA HPA photo

AFTER the election of President-elect Donald Trump last week, Americans across the nation were shocked and feared for the country’s future under his administration. Trump’s immigration plans were one of the real estate mogul’s most controversial plans with his promise for the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants and removal of many of President Barack Obama’s policies. California has the largest undocumented population in the country with more than 3 million as of 2013, according to Migration Policy Institute. “For the first time since coming here, I was frightened, like, truly frightened. It felt like the world turned upside down, and I think it will very soon,” Gracie Reyes, 21, told the Asian Journal. Reyes is an undocumented student studying

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FORMER President Fidel Ramos on Monday, November 21, expressed his dismay over late President Ferdinand Marcos’s unannounced funeral last week. Despite the public outcry of martial law victims and their families, Marcos was buried “in secrecy” and with military honors at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) on Friday, November Former President Fidel Ramos 18, in Taguig City. “I felt very bad especially for the veterans as well as the members of the AFP, retirees and other active members of PNP which I commanded sometime ago as well as the Philippine Coast Guard,” Ramos said. He also called the burial an act of “insult” to the “sacrifices of our Armed Forces, PNP (Philippine National Police), Coast Guard, veterans – retired and active.” Marcos, who was ousted during the 1986 EDSA

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Yasay: Obama sees better Ronnie Dayan admits PH-US relations under Trump delivering drug money by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

U.S. President Barack Obama is optimistic about a “better and stronger” relationship between the Philippines and the United States under the incoming Trump administration, according to Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. Yasay said Obama told him during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) last week that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Duterte seemingly have similar “temperament” and could play a great factor in boosting the two countries’ relationship. According to the foreign secretary,

he had the chance to meet and talk with Obama during the leaders’ gala dinner and picture-taking for the traditional APEC family photo. Yasay represented Duterte, who was unable to attend in the events due to jetlag. “He (Obama) told me he is expecting a better and stronger relationship between the Philippines and the United States under the new administration of Presidentelect Trump because they seem to have the same kind of temperament. And I replied with ‘I hope so’,” Yasay said. The decades-long relationship between the Philippines and the United States has been put into question in the past few months, following Duterte’s continuous

from Kerwin to De Lima by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

RONNIE Dayan, former driver and alleged bagman of Senator Leila De Lima, confessed on Tuesday, November 22, that he previously collected drug money for the senator from alleged drug lord Kerwin Espinosa. Dayan was earlier accused by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte of collecting National Bilibid Prison (NBP) drug trade money for De Lima’s 2016 senatorial bid. He was also accused by Duterte of having an illicit relationship with the senator, which both De Lima and Dayan recently professed to be true. Although Dayan denied that he received drug money from other drug lords, he admitted that he delivered money for De Lima from Kerwin several times. “Wala akong tinatanggap na drug money sa mga drug lord. Kay Kerwin meron. Mer-

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Covered California begins open enrollment ELAINE Young spent 20 years teaching students with special needs in Los Angeles before she learned an important lesson — that her retirement benefits did not include health insurance. “Because I worked six hours a day, my position was considered part time, and my 20 years was only equal to eight to 10 years full time,” Young, 62, recalled. While stunned by the revelation, Young was still determined to retire and put her health insurance issues “in

God’s hands.” Her prayers, she said, were answered last June when she enrolled in a health insurance plan through Covered California, the state agency that helps Californians get name-brand coverage through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act — commonly known as Obamacare. “I absolutely love it. And I would highly recommend it to anyone who does not have health insurance,” Young said.

The fourth open-enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act is underway and continues through Jan. 31, 2017. Californians like Young who need health insurance will find new ways to shop for coverage and new ways to save. Approximately 1.4 million people, about 22.5 percent whom are Asian Americans, now have coverage through Covered California. Meanwhile, over 100,000 Asian Americans in California remain

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Ronnie Dayan

2,400 Filipinos in Fukushima safe after earthquake by KRISTIAN JAVIER Philstar.com

MANILA — The 2,400 Filipinos residing in Fukushima are safe after an earthquake hit Japan according to the Department of Foreign Affairs. “Filipino residing in affected areas are safe, with some staying

in evacuation areas,” the DFA said in a statement. No injuries or casualties have been reported as the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo continues to communicate with concerned local government agencies in Japan, the department also said. A 7.4-magnitude earthquake was recorded off the coast of

Fukushima early Tuesday morning, November 22, at 5:59 a.m., Japan time, which strongly affected the Fukushima, Tochigi, and Ibaraki prefectures. Tsunami warnings were also issued immediately in Fukushima and Miyagi, where the coastal areas were evacuated. The Philippine Embassy will

continue to closely monitor the situation on the ground while keeping in touch with the Filipino community leaders residing in affected areas. According to the DFA, there are currently 237,103 Filipinos residing in Japan with 9,074 in Ibaraki and 4,438 in Tochigi, prefectures also affected by the earthquake. ■

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NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

FVR on ‘sneaky’ Marcos burial: An… PAGE A1 t

Revolution, died of kidney, heart and lung ailments in 1989 while he was in exile in Hawaii. Ramos allowed the late strongman’s remains to return to the Philippines during his administration in 1992, along with the following conditions: first, Marcos’s body would be brought directly to Laoag Airport in Ilocos Norte without passing through Manila; second, Marcos would be buried in his family mausoleum in Batac upon arrival; and third, there would be no “pomp and protocol and extravaganzas” during the funeral. This agreement was signed by former First Lady Imelda Marcos and former Interior Secretary Rafael Alunan on August 20, 1992. Since then, the late dictator’s remains have been frozen in a glass coffin in his hometown of Batac, Ilocos Norte. In August of this year, Presi-

dent Rodrigo Duterte later gave the go-signal to bury the late dictator at the Heroes’ Cemetery, living up to his campaign promise that he would let the event happen to “unite” and “heal” the nation. After two months of hearings, the Supreme Court ruled that Marcos can be buried at the cemetery in November, dismissing all the petitions against the burial, which were mostly filed by victims of torture during the martial law period. According to the court, the burial does not violate the Philippine Constitution. Ramos said that Marcos’ funeral at the Libingan ng mga Bayani is a “step backward” for President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. “You must understand, that is just a happening in a series of happenings. The scheme of the Marcos family with the

connivance of some elements of Armed Forces including the national police — some only, not everybody — is a step backwards for this administration in the sense that they are losing support, they are losing friends,” Ramos said. He also suggested that the police and military personnel involved in Marcos’s burial be probed or booted out of the office because “they were disloyal to the service for failing to inform their immediate commanding officers.” “Bakit nagawa yung sneak burial (How did the sneak burial happened) without you media knowing about it? There was advanced planning. Call it connivance led by the Marcos family together with some local police and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) official. I said local because the commanders did not know,” Ramos said. n

PANATAG AS A SANCTUARY. Forrmer President Fidel Ramos gestures during a news briefing where he made known his support to the plan of President Rodrigo Duterte to declare the Panatag shoal lagoon a marine sanctuary. Photo by Mike de Juan/Manilatimes.net

Yasay: Obama sees better PH-US… Ronnie Dayan admits delivering drug…

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anti-U.S. remarks for the latter’s alleged interference in the Philippine government’s crackdown on illegal drugs During the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Laos last September, Obama also scrapped his scheduled meeting with Duterte after reports indicated that the Philippine leader called him a “son of a b*tch.” Although Duterte and Obama both attended the APEC summit in Peru, no bilateral talks were conducted between the two leaders.

“But he (Obama) was really saying something that, to my mind, was forward looking. Perhaps he saw that our relationship has been strained only with the leaders involved. But with Trump, maybe he is more optimistic,” Yasay said. This year’s APEC summit was Duterte’s first and Obama’s last. Trump, who won the U.S. presidential election this month against Hillary Clinton, is set to assume office in January next year. “We wanted to convey the message to America that our relationship can be stronger if

there will be reevaluation and readjustments of our relationship where this time, dependency will not be allowed. That is more fundamental,” Yasay said. At the same time, in a statement issued at the conclusion Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDBSEB) on Tuesday, November 22, both the Philippines’ and the United States’ military chiefs assured the public that the military ties between the two countries remain robust amid Duterte’s pronouncements of scrapping joint drills with foreign troops. “The successful completion of the MDB-SEB ensures continued, robust relations between the U.S. and Philippine militaries,” the statement said. The MDB-SEB was chaired by Philippine armed forces chief Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya and Head of the U.S. Pacific Command Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr. “This highlights the enduring commitment of both countries to the U.S.-Philippine alliance,” it added. Harris previously said that no change has been finalized between the United States’ military cooperation with the Philippines. However, he noted that it’s possi-

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on akong natatanggap para kay senadora (I don’t receive drug money from drug lords. From Kerwin, yes. I received some from him that are for senator),” Dayan said. According to him, about five transactions occurred in 2014 when De Lima was still the justice secretary. He, however, said he cannot recall the total of drug money he collected from Kerwin. “Hindi ko po binibilang magkano ang binibigay sa akin, pag inabot lang nilalagay ko sa sasakyan… Yun ang utos ni ma’am kaya susunod lang ako sa utos ni ma’am. Secretary pa siya (I never count how much were given to me, I immediately put it inside the car… I just follow her command. She was still the secretary then),” Dayan said. De Lima, on her part, reiterated that she did not receive any amount from Kerwin Espinosa. Senator Manny Pacquiao earlier disclosed that according to Kerwin, De Lima received about P8 million from the latter. “I have not received a single centavo from Kerwin Espinosa whether directly or indirectly in any instance in the same manner u PAGE A3 that I have not received a single

centavo,” the senator said in a separate conference. Dayan went missing since the issue of De Lima’s alleged involvement in NBP drug trades erupted. Due to failure of appearance on previous NBP drug trade hearings despite the repeated summons from the House of Representatives, a warrant of arrest has been issued against Dayan. Dayan was arrested in San Juan, La Union on Tuesday, November 22 and was taken under the custody of La Union provincial police office before being transferred on the same day at Camp Crame, in Quezon City. While in hiding, Dayan said he had never been in contact with De Lima despite efforts to get in touch with the senator. “Ni isang text wala ako nare-

ceive sa kanya... actually pinatext ko sa anak ko na humingi ka ng financial (help) kasi halos di na ako makakain, hindi siya nirereplyan (I didn’t even receive a single text from her… actually I asked my child to send her a text message asking for financial help because I can hardly eat but there was no reply),” according to Dayan. Dayan also refused to acknowledged the allegations that he was an illegal drug user. “Never ako nag-take ng drugs, never ako nagbenta ng drugs. Talagang ayaw ko yang drugs na ‘yan. ‘Yung pagkakadawit sa akin sa drugs, gawa-gawa lang nila ‘yon (I am neither a drug user or drug seller. I really dislike drugs. My name being linked up with drugs were all just made up),” he stressed. n

Covered California…

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uninsured, yet most are eligible for thousands of dollars in federal subsidies to help them pay their monthly premiums. “California has built a robust marketplace where insurers are competing for consumers and where there is financial help to buy top-quality insurance,” said

Peter V. Lee, Covered California’s executive director. More than 92 percent of consumers will have three or more health plans to choose from, and none will have fewer than two, Lee said. In Los Angeles and much of the Bay Area, there is robust competition with as many as eight plans competing for business. These are plans that are recognizable and trusted by consumers. Plans such as Kaiser, Anthem, Blue Shield, and some regional plans such as L.A. Care and Molina Healthcare in Southern California and the Chinese Community Health Plan in the Bay Area. For 2017, most consumers can save up to $55 per urgent care visit and their copays for seeing their primary care doctor will also be lower. And, for consumers selecting Silver, Gold or Platinum plans, most of their outpatient services like primary care and specialist visits, lab tests, X-rays and imaging are not subject to a deductible. Emergency room visits for these plans are now a flat fee. Even consumers in Covered California’s most affordable Bronze plans are able to see their doctor or a specialist three times without having to meet their deductible. These changes for 2017 can help consumers save thousands of dollars. “We know health care is expensive, so we took steps to make sure consumers who do buy coverage get the care they need without having to first meet their full deductible,” Lee said. Visit CoveredCA.com to find more locations. n

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Dateline USa

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016

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Fil-Am young leaders take part in immersion trip to the Philippines this week

JOINT EFFORTS. Forces from the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia are refining joint operations to stop kidnapping incidents hatched by groups linked to the Abu Sayyaf in the southern border, according to a security official. Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), disclosed the joint operation following the latest abduction of two Indonesian fishermen last Friday, Nov. 18, off the waters of Kunak district in Sabah. Philstar file photo

The future of DACA under the Trump…

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before getting rid of DACA because of the benefits it’s delivered to its recipients, who “for all practical purposes are American kids.” “These are kids who were brought here by their parents. They did nothing wrong. They’ve gone to school. They have pledged allegiance to the flag. Some of them have joined the military. They’ve enrolled in school. By definition, if they’re part of this program, they are solid, wonderful young people of good character,” Obama said on Monday, November 14. “And it is my strong belief that the majority of the American people would not want to see suddenly those kids have to start hiding again. And that’s something that I will encourage the president-elect to look at,” he added. Under DACA, undocumented youth – who meet several guidelines – are granted certain privileges previously unavailable to undocumented immigrants including a renewable two-year work permit and exemption from deportation. Nearly 742,000 undocumented youth – with 8,000 Filipinos – are currently enrolled in the program, with one-third living in California, according to data from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The specific benefits vary from state to state; California, for example, also grants DACA recipients access to driver’s licenses in addition to work authorization and deportation protection. To add to the uncertainty of DACA’s future, Tiffany Panlilio, a DACA legal advocate at legal and civil rights organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice Los Angeles (Advancing Justice LA), said that many DACA recipi-

ents are fearing work termination due to backlogging at USCIS. Because of the uncertainty of the program, Advancing Justice - LA has temporarily halted the processing of DACA applications and renewals. The organization has also encouraged DACA prospects to not go forth with applying and spending the $465 fee until there’s confirmation from Washington. “The attitude in the last few weeks has completely changed,” Panlilio told the Asian Journal, adding the rush of fearful clients inquiring about the next steps to take to protect their rights. Panlilio said that although the future of the program is uncertain, Advancing Justice - LA is offering free immigration screenings to see if recipients are eligible for other programs like family-based petitions, asylum and U-Visas, among others. “DACA has opened up the gates for so many opportunities here in California,” Panlilio said. “We have a lot of Filipino clients who have used to DACA to complete nursing school and have since become nurses. They’ve also become doctors and lawyers. So it’s complete change, and they’re not going to take this down without a fight to maintain their dreams in the United States.” Panlilio added: “I think one of the things that’s giving the community hope are organizations like ourselves which have agreed to have their back and support them. So right now, I think we’re all passed the mourning part, and I think we’re all ready to fight for their rights.” Apart from the benefits in the legislation, DACA has boosted the morale among undocumented immigrants, according to Anthony Ng, an immigrant rights and policy expert at Advancing

Cal State University system…

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physics at Cal State Los Angeles. She immigrated to the U.S. from the Philippines when she was 2 years old. Like many Americans, the election results shocked her, saying that she feels that attitudes toward undocumented immigrants will “worsen.” “I’m scared for what might happen to all the undocumented students, but I think that creating a community of support is the most important thing right now,” she added, expressing appreciation for “outpouring of support” she’s gotten from fellow students. On Thursday, November 17, CSU Chancellor Timothy White said that the 23-school system was dedicated to creating and maintaining a “safe and welcoming” system for the thousands of undocumented students on its campuses. He said that the CSU — which is the largest public university system in the United States — was committed to declining “agreements with state or local law enforcement agencies, Homeland Security or any other federal department for the enforcement of federal immigration law.” California Democrats have also started rallying for the protection of undocumented immigrants fearing deportation. California Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom called upon the CSU, University of California (UC) and California Community Colleges (CCC) to protect its undocumented students from deportation, writing letters to White and UC

President Janet Napolitano. “We must take urgent stock of current policies and vulnerabilities pertaining to personal data held and processed by the California State University, to shield students from federal agencies under a Trump administration,” Newsom wrote in a letter to White on Thursday, November 17. The gubernatorial candidate for 2018 suggested collaborating campus police and administration on how best to protect these students and to establish these campuses as “Sanctuary Campuses.” On Thursday, House Reps. from California Zoe Lofgren (DSan Jose) and Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-Downey) penned a letter with Illinois Rep. Luis Gutierrez to Obama asking him to prevent the deportation of the 750,000 undocumented immigrants who were granted deportation deferral under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. They detailed that by forgiving nearly these individuals’ civil immigration offenses by way of presidential pardon, it would ultimately keep them from Trump’s promised deportation. That same day, the White House quickly shot down the proposal. “We note that the clemency power could not give legal status to any undocumented individual,” a White House official said. “As we repeatedly said for years, only Congress can create legal status for undocumented individuals.” (Klarize Medenilla/ AJ Press)

Yasay: Obama sees better…

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ble to have “re-scoping” of some joint exercises in 2017. Earlier this month, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced that some bilateral military drills between the Philippines and U.S. were eyed to be stopped, including the Philippine Amphibious Land-

ing Exercise (PHIBLEX) exercises, and the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) drills. The annual joint Balikatan exercise and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will continue, as approved by Duterte, Lorenzana added. n

Justice - LA. Ng – who is a DACA recipient himself – said that DACA provides far more opportunities for undocumented youth than ever before. “I think it’s valid to be fearful for your future, but the one thing I’m telling myself and other folks that I know who have DACA is to not lose hope. This fear shouldn’t let us stop fighting for our rights, and I think, in this moment, the community has our back,” Ng said, adding that the community

MANILA, Philippines — As the spotlight on U.S.- Philippine relations increases, the 2016 delegates for the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO) prepare for a trip to Manila for its week-long Immersion Program starting Wednesday, November 23 FYLPRO officials announced. Ten selected delegates hail from diverse professional and personal backgrounds, with all having a passion to advance the Filipino community, both in the United States and the Philippines. This year’s FYLPRO delegates represent New York, Washington D.C., California, Hawaii, Washington, and Guam. The 2016 FYLPRO Immersion Program, which will be held on Nov. 23 to Dec. 2, 2016, is a joint undertaking between FYLPRO, the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in the United States and

the Ayala Foundation, Inc. The program is an all-expense-paid trip to the Philippines to meet with top government, business and civil society leaders. Minister Patrick Chuasoto, the Embassy’s Chargé d’Affairés ad interim and Chair of the FYLPRO Selection Committee, officially welcomed the delegates on a teleconference earlier in the month. The delegates have also expressed how much they look forward to reconnecting, and discovering more about their motherland. “I am honored to be a part of this immersion trip and thrilled to finally meet everyone,” said Joanne Boston, a 2016 FYLPRO delegate from California. “My batchmates are talented and passionate, and I look forward to seeing how our work will benefit the communities in our respective cities. It’s not everyday that one

is given the opportunity to make connections with people who can potentially make goals into reality. I already know this will be a life-changing experience.” The 2016 FYLPRO is made possible with the invaluable partnership of the Ayala Foundation, Inc., the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the generous support of corporate sponsors that include PhilAm Life, SGV, PHINMA Corporation, and Philippine Airlines. The 2016 delegates are: Noel Aglubat (New York, NY); Tiffany Batac (Washington, DC); Joanne Boston (Daly City, CA); Mark Calaguas (Chicago, IL); Brandon Dela Cruz (Honolulu, HI); Elizabeth Frilles (Honolulu, HI); Christopher Lapinig (Los Angeles, CA); Maria Teresa Quintans (Tamuning, Guam); Donny Rojo (Seattle, WA); and Jhett Tolentino (New York, NY). n

includes, not just immigrants, but all Americans who believe in “people’s humanity and equal rights.” DACA also provides a significant economic benefit to the program, Ng said. Because of the work authorization feature, DACA has allowed for individuals and families to improve their household incomes and prepare them for greater employment opportunities. “I think we really need to look at our elected officials to champion our communities by holding the line to Washington, D.C.,” Ng added. “I think it’s helpful to see

mayors to affirm DACA in their cities and communities, whether it’s in a social or economic way. It really affirms that DACA impacts the community that we live in.” California lawmakers have already begun campaigning for immigrant rights, like Rep. Judy Chu who on Tuesday, November 15 urged the Obama administration to “protect” the undocumented youth from the proposed policies of the incoming presidential administration. “These children and families provided extensive amounts of sensitive information to their government, including fingerprints

and relatives’ home addresses, with the understanding that it would not be used against them. We promised them security,” Chu said in a statement. “Now they are facing a nightmare. When we asked immigrants to come out of the shadows, we never imagined the election of a candidate who ran on a policy of mass deportation.” A study released last week by the Center for American Progress estimated that removing the DACA program could potentially cost “wipe away at least” $433.4 billion from the U.S. economy. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

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NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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NaFFAA hails growing civic participation of Fil-Ams

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As evidenced by the last election cycle, higher voter registration rates and Fil-Ams running for public office are among positive indicators of engagement in the electoral process. “While the 2016 election results may be delightful to some and disappointing to others, we are nonetheless heartened by the growing participation of Filipino Americans who exercised their democratic right to choose the person who will lead our country in the next four years,� said NaFFAA National Chairman Brendan Flores. “We are also encouraged by the number of Filipino Americans who ran for public office in local and state elections. This is what community empowerment is all about, and they proudly demonstrated these aspirations on November 8.� NaFFAA’s FilAmVote program was notably successful in San Diego, California, where voter registration rates increased by 15 percent. “We estimate a 10 percent increase nationwide, thanks to the tremendous voter outreach conducted by our NaFFAA members across the country,� said FilAmVote National Coordinator Juanito Amor. “Voter turnout was also high among Asian Americans as a whole, as indicated by early CNN exit polling, but we don’t know just yet the share of votes casted nationally by Filipino Americans. I appreciate the tireless efforts of the many Filipino American groups to register voters, educate them about the issues and get them to the polls.� In acknowledging the outcome of the election, Flores stated that he is heartened by Presidentelect Donald Trump’s assurance that he will be president for all Americans. “We wish him well as he takes on this challenging task,� Flores said. “Fear, hate and bigotry dominated the political rhetoric of the presidential campaign. We hope that he will indeed, ‘bind the wounds of division’ so we can all ‘come together as one united people’ regardless of partisan differences. “NaFFAA stands ready to work with the new administration under President-elect Donald Trump to ensure that the voices of the millions of Filipino-Americans across the United States are heard. We call on the new administration to fulfill their promises in empowering all Ameri-

Youth volunteers spurred NaFFAA’s FilAmVote program in Denver, Colorado. Photo courtesy of NaFFAA Communications

cans through education, creating safe communities, providing equal justice and representation under the law, creating uplifting policies for better job creation and helping businesses, and by giving recognition and respect to all Veterans.� An inclusive America “Hillary Clinton and her supporters are to be commended as well for their determined efforts and for the causes they championed,� Flores asserted. “Her long public service record is truly remarkable and we owe her an enormous debt of gratitude for her selfless dedication. We are also inspired by her call to build an America that is ‘hopeful, inclusive and big-hearted,’ one that is fair to people of all races and religions, for immigrants, for LGBT people and people with disabilities.� The plight of veterans, the men and women who served in the military, was also one of Clinton’s concerns when she was a U.S. senator and that of Trump when he was running for president. “Our Filipino World War II veterans have yet to be recognized for their service and sacrifice, an emotional issue that widely resonated with voters,� Flores noted. “Fairness and justice demand the passage of the Congressional Gold Medal bill which is pending in Congress. We call on House Speaker Paul Ryan and Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy to act now and get this legislation

passed this year.� This measure was approved by the Senate in July and enlisted 310 cosponsors in the House. NaFFAA members across the country engaged their senators and U.S. representatives, through emails, personal visits and tweets in securing their support. Empowerment aspirations “To the Filipino Americans who ran for elective office or reelection to their current positions, our community owes you its deepest appreciation for your dedication to public service,� Flores added. “We congratulate all the candidates who succeeded, and we commend those who tried but fell short. Your efforts to represent us and give voice to our issues are inspiring examples of leadership. They are integral to our empowerment.� The following are the candidates who ran for various offices across the country: Rob Bonta, the first Filipino to serve in the California legislature, was reelected to a second term as the assemblymember for district 18 in Alameda County. In Hercules, Calif. Andrew Gabriel, a 23-year-old law student, won a seat at the Rodeo-Hercules Fire Board, while newcomer Roland Esquivias won and placed second in the three open seats on the Hercules city council. In Vallejo, Calif., Bob Sampayan won as Mayor. A retired police officer, he has served in the city council since 2011. Hermie Sunga and Rozzana Verder Aliga

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were elected city councilmembers while Ruscal Cayangyang won a seat on the school board. Mae C. Torlakson put up a good fight but lost the Dist. 14 assembly contest for the Contra Costa and Vallejo area. In Daly City, Juslyn Manalo, a former community service worker who fought for the rights of Fil-Am veterans, became the first Filipina to win a council seat in San Mateo County’s largest city. Former Daly City Mayor Mike Guingona lost his bid, however, for northern San Mateo supervisor. In their bid for elective posts, success eluded Marjan Philhour, a Filipina-Iranian candidate for San Francisco Dist. 1 supervisor; Magdalena de Guzman, for San Francisco District 11 supervisor; former Hercules mayor Ed Manuel, for Concord city council; Council member Jim Navarro, for Union City mayor; Tony Daysog, for Alameda City Council, Evelyn Centeno, for the Martinez Unified School district, and incumbent Zachary Mallet, who lost his reelection to the Bart board district 7. In Bergenfied, New Jersey, businessman and community leader Salvador “Buddy� Deauna won a city council seat. A farmer’s son from Camarines Norte, Deauna is the eldest of 16 children. This is his first time to enter the political arena. Jonathan Wong didn’t quite make it to become mayor of Mahwah, New Jersey. Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes won re-election to the post he was elected to in 2012. Reyes is the first ethnic minority to become the Attorney General of Utah and hold statewide office in Utah. He sat on the Asian Pacific American (APA) Advisory Committee for the Trump campaign. Torlakson summed up best these electoral aspirations: “Together, we fought for our working families, for our children, and for our environment-- and, I am deeply proud of that fight. I may have lost the race to represent Assembly District 14, but I have not lost my drive to fight for the people of Contra Costa and Solano Counties. I will continue to work to improve the lives of our community members, and I am grateful that you gave me this opportunity.� Moving forward Two prominent Filipino Americans who have served in state legislatures are encouraged by

the showing at the polls and the number of candidates from the community who threw their hats in the ring. They urge the Filipino American community to continue to be energized by the electoral process. Republican Delegate Ron Villanueva of the 21st District of Virginia and a member of Trump’s APA advisory committee said, “we have a lot of work ahead to advance our communities and make America great again, like fixing a broken immigration system, sustaining jobs here in America, restoring our prominence in the international community and having government work for us instead of against us. America is great because of its people, so let’s all unite, work hard and move our country forward.� Villanueva was elected to the Virginia state assembly in 2009. In her ninth year as a delegate to the Maryland Assembly, Democrat Kris Valderrama calls on the community to welcome President-elect Trump’s vow to be “president for all Americans,� but to also be “vigilant in protecting our civil and religious rights. I am deeply concerned by some of the hateful and frightening things he said about Filipinos during his campaign, particularly his plan to ban Filipino immigration to the United States, along with those from most Arab countries, which he considers a threat to national security. Such an action would ignore the many contributions that our community has made over the last century.� Valderrama also thanked President Barack Obama for his leadership in the last eight years, which he assumed “with grace, humility and with a touch of humor,� and for enacting the Filipino WWII Veterans Parole Program, which allows the families of certain WWII veterans to come to the United States and be united with their loved ones during their last years. Voter outreach During the election season, NaFFAA encouraged the active participation of Fil-Am millennials in voter registration and outreach. NaFFAA’s Capital Region partnered with APIA Vote and deployed more than half a dozen students from area colleges to make phone calls, reaching 26,000 voters in the Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia region. “It’s my second year phone banking,� said JC Videna, a grad-

uate of George Mason University. “It’s a civic responsibility for me as a Filipino-American to encourage people to vote. We are already marginalized in terms of numbers, but we do not want to further marginalize ourselves by failing to turn out at the polls. Every great change in the world has started with leadership, and in this country, that leadership is voted on. I did my part, and I hope others did the same.� John Victoria, a former US Navy Academy student, added, “The most fulfilling part about the entire experience was being on the frontlines as a direct touchpoint to our community. I am confident that our phone calls and voicemails may have been tipping points for some members of our community who had been on the fence about voting, or who may have felt their vote and their voice did not matter.� For Victoria, the most important lesson was being able to connect with Filipino American voters, regardless of their party affiliation, so their voices can be heard. “Low voter turnout makes it easy for elected officials to discount what we have to say because why should they care about the issues we voice in our community if we won’t affect election results?� Challenges ahead NaFFAA’s mission of community empowerment was put to the test in the last few months, and it will be tested again in November next year when voters elect their governors in New Jersey and Virginia. There’s also the mid-term elections in 2018 when House and Senate candidates vie for electoral support. “Off-year elections are a great way to maintain [the] momentum of voter turnout from the presidential election,� Flores said. “It would remind elected officials that we will remain engaged in shaping our government at all levels and at all times, and that we will continue to hold them accountable for their campaign promises. Let us lead in safeguarding our civil rights, protecting vulnerable communities from hate crimes and unfair treatment, encouraging diversity, inclusion, partnership and collaboration to help rebuild America and its future.� “Our resilience as a community, as borne out in our history of struggle and resistance, will see us through as we face tomorrow’s challenges.� n

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PH, US agree to ‘refocus’ military ties by Catherine

S. Valente Manilatimes.net

The Philippines and the Unites States have agreed to refocus bilateral relations toward nontraditional activities, such as joint cooperation in combating illegal drugs and corruption as well as disaster response. This came after Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. met with his American counterpart, US Secretary of State John Kerry at the sidelines of the AsiaPacific economic Cooperation (APeC) ministerial meeting in the Peruvian capital. Speaking to Filipino journalists, Yasay said that, during a “very cordial” meeting, he conveyed to Kerry the assurance of President Rodrigo Duterte that the Philippines would continue its defense cooperation with the US. But Manila will no longer focus on joint military exercises to avoid “provocations,” par-

ticularly in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). “engaging ourselves with the United States insofar as military preparedness for invasion of countries like China then no longer holds true, because we’re in the midst of this conflict or dispute we have insofar as South China Sea is concerned, where we are committed to resolve this in peaceful manner,” Yasay said during a news conference. “So what we have told the United States is maybe we should tone down and not focus on these joint military exercises which was a fundamental core of our mutual defense agreement, but get into eDCA where we would like to focus on exercises that are nontraditional insofar as building our capacity against nontraditional security threats such as terrorism, even the fight against illegal drugs, even disaster response,” he added. Yasay was referring to the

2014 enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (eDCA) that allows US troops rotational access to military bases and camps in the Philippines. According to him, President Duterte “never said anything about discontinuing eDCA.” Yasay announced that US Admiral harry harris, the new commander of the US Pacific Command, would soon visit the Philippines to discuss areas of joint cooperation. The meeting of Yasay and Kerry came after Duterte, during a state visit in Beijing in October, announced his military and economic “separation from the United States.” But the President later clarified that his announcement was “not a severance” of diplomatic ties, just a separation of foreign policy. The US reacted by saying that Duterte’s controversial statements have created a “climate of uncertainty about the Philippines’ intentions.”

Robredo hit for ‘lies’ by Jaime

PilaPil Manilatimes.net

The camp of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, Nov. 21 slammed Vice President Leni Robredo for insinuating that the former lawmaker aims to “steal” the vice presidency. In a statement, Marcos’s lawyer Vic Rodriguez said Robredo is trying to connect the the electoral protest to the burial of his father at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. “To begin with, we have no plans of stealing something that we obviously won to begin with. It is our position that BBM [Bongbong Marcos] won the vice presidential race and had it not been for the systematic fraud and unprecedented maneuverings committed on the day of the elections, he should have been the one proclaimed,” Rodriguez said. Robredo’s camp earlier issued statements that the camp of Marcos is fast-tracking the electoral protest before the Presidential electoral Tribunal

by finishing the recount of ballots in November. Robredo also expressed her strong opposition to the interment of Marcos’s father at the heroes’ cemetery on November 18. Rodriguez reminded Robredo that the nation witnessed how the former senator’s votes dwindled after commanding a 1 million lead after voting hours on May 11, 2016 at a “uniform ratio of 40 – 1.” “This was countenanced by the ‘thieves in the night’”, he said. Rodriguez said the camp of Robredo apparently wanted to undermine the proceedings at the PeT “by openly accusing us of moving for the recounting of votes without the direction of the PeT.” “Such is a blatant and malicious lie, a figment of one’s imagination meant to deceive the public. Robredo, who is a lawyer, should know that there is no way a recount can be done without the approval of the PeT or even the Commis-

sion on elections,” he said. Rodriguez reminded Robredo and her lawyers that a recount is far off since a preliminary conference and the order of retrieval have yet to be issued. “Clearly, they are getting ahead of themselves,” he said. “Also, a recount is not indispensable for BBM to win his case. A recount may or may not be conducted in the course of his election Protest depending on the weight of the evidence presented. And even granting a recount will be conducted, we would expect Robredo and her lawyers to welcome the same if they are really confident on the results of the election,” he added. Rodriguez said the camp of Robredo has not shelved their so-called “Plan B”, a grand design to topple President Rodrigo Duterte and install Robredo as president. “With all these unfounded and uncalled for accusations, are they gearing up for the socalled Plan B?” he said.

DRUG RAID. The executive department of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will suspend indefinitely the mayor of Talitay, Maguindanao for possession of illegal drugs and unlicensed firearms. Three platoons of policemen, agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and personnel of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division raided just after dawn Friday the house of Mayor Muntassir Sabal in the town proper of Talitay and found there methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and undocumented guns.

Justice chief ‘fooling’ public on death penalty The house senior deputy minority leader has accused Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II of “misleading” the public in order to drum up support for death penalty. “Secretary Aguirre’s claim that death sentences are needed to implant fear in the hearts of hardened criminals has long been discredited by extensive social science research,” Lito Atienza Atienza, also Buhay party-list group representative, said in a statement on Monday, Nov. 21. “Ample studies have demonstrated that people commit crimes largely in the heat of passion, such as in cases of road rage, or because they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or because they are mentally ill. These would-be criminals give little or no forethought to their actions, and won’t be discouraged by any fear of death,” Atienza added. he said the people who actually contemplate their crimes beforehand, such as professional killers, as well as syndicated drug traffickers, robbers, kidnappers and carjackers, intend and expect to avoid capture and punishment. Thus, the lawmaker said the

best way to quash crime would be to guarantee the swift apprehension and imprisonment of felons, especially those hoping to get away. Aguirre earlier said the death penalty has to be restored to send a chilling message to criminals. “If the death penalty will be strictly enforced, there is no iota of doubt that this will instill the fear of death in the minds of would-be criminals. In this way, people with criminal minds would think twice before they commit offenses, especially heinous ones,” he added. Atienza, however, said the death penalty runs counter to the faith of most Filipinos. “More than 86 percent of Filipinos are Catholic, and our faith teaches us that every human being has the right to life, which is absolutely sacred,” he noted. Atienza warned that the country would be openly violating international treaties once Congress returns capital punishment. The lawmaker said government would achieve far more in suppressing crime if it purged the justice system of crooked police officers, prosecutors, judges

and prison officials. he cited the latest case of five police officers involved in a brazen kidnapping and carjacking in Cagayan de Oro City (Misamis Oriental). The officers were caught on closed-circuit TV abducting a man who remains missing up to now. Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez earlier said he expects the house to pass the bill reviving the death penalty for heinous crimes before the Christmas recess. Alvarez himself authored the bill that seeks to mete out death sentences to offenders convicted of drug felonies, murder, rape, robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, bribery, plunder, parricide, infanticide, destructive arson, piracy and treason. Atienza, however, prefers that the same offenses be punished with imprisonment for 40 years, or until the convict reaches 70 years old, without the benefit of possible early release. Congress abolished capital punishment in 2006 as a result of mounting flaws, including belated discovery of the wrongful execution of Leo echegaray. (ManilaTimes.net)

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NOVEMBER 25-dEcEMBER 1, 2016 • NORcAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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Features

OpiniOn Unrest

WHEN news broke out on Friday, November 18 that former Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos has interred at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery), it lit a fire. Public opposition is at high as more people mounting protests and unfurling banners saying that the former president “is no hero.” For some, the LNMB hold’s the nation’s esteem and reverence for those who have fought for freedom and democracy. The tyrant deposed by the People Power Revolution does not deserve such honor. For them, the burial was a slap in the face the country’s beloved democracy, and of the human rights victims during the martial law period. Today, various groups and organizations are marshaling support for rallies to denounce the notoriously callous decision by the Supreme Court allowing Marcos’s burial at LNMB. The decision was still subject to a motion for reconsideration. Voting 9-5 last November 8, the high court put an end to the issue, dismissing the petition filed by human rights groups, and victims during the martial law from 1972 to 1981. Marcos died in exile in Hawaii in 1989, three years after the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution toppled his two-decade rule. Albay Representative Edcel Lagman has pled the high court to order the exhumation of the remains of Marcos, saying that his burial was “premature, precipitate and irregular” on the basis that the decision allowing the burial “has not attained finality and was not executory.” “The exhumation is imperative in order not to render moot and academic the petitioners’ forth-

coming and seasonable motion/s for reconsideration, the resolution of which had been preempted by the precipitate burial in the wake of nationwide protests and cogent commentaries against the subject Decision of the [SC],” Lagman’s motion read. Former Senator Bongbong Marcos has called for unity amidst the growing clamor to exhume his father remains. “This was in keeping with his idea that he was but a soldier doing his duty, a citizen serving his country. We have waited 27 years to fulfill that wish that he left us with. But we are here today and we are able to grant him that wish,” the former senator said. Pres. Rodrigo Duterte stood by his decision to allow the internment of the former president at LNMB. “I have only two answers: He (Marcos) was a president, he was a soldier. His name appears on the record, it was recognized,” Duterte said. And for those refuse to move on from this, the president has this to say: “You just have to live with your grief and that grief is hate.” Because there have been an alleged high number of atrocities done under Marcos’s regime, this issue will remain hounded by higher public opposition. In this charged atmosphere, the government should find a solution to address this contentious issue and provide a ground for peaceful resolution of political conflicts. (AJPress)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

A big majority of Filipinos in America don’t agree that Marcos’s burial at LNMB will heal the nation The Fil-Am Perspective Gel SantoS-ReloS THE remains of the deposed dictator Ferdinand Marcos was schemingly buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB) last Friday, despite a motion for reconsideration pending in the Supreme Court. The highest court of the land decided in favor of President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to allow the burial of Marcos in the National Heroes’ Cemetery, contending that Marcos was a former president, soldier, legislator who, by law, deserved to be laid to rest in the Libingan. Duterte said people should accept this, forgive, so the country can unite and move forward and unite. Once the news about the burial spread, Filipinos protested in different parts of the world, denouncing the burial. They said

this is an insult to the real heroes who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in offering their lives for the country. Marcos, on the other hand, had been deposed via the People Power Revolution in 1986, as the Filipinos’ way of putting an end to all the corruption and human rights violations he and his administration committed while in power. Burying Marcos in the Libingan, they contend, was a desperate deplorable attempt to rewrite history. Anti-Marcos protesters even asked the Supreme Court to allow the remains of the late dictator to be exhumed; some warned that they would do so on their own nevertheless in the name of justice for those who had been victims of the Marcos dictatorship. Filipinos in America, even among some who voted for Duterte, had been vocal about Marcos’s burial in the Libingan. The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America” asked its viewers in an online poll: Do you agree that Marcos’es hero’s burial will start to heal the

LAID TO REST. Amid protests, former President Ferdinand Marcos is finally laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani as family members gather during the private burial rites on Friday, Nov. 18. In a private ceremony at the cemetery in Taguig City, Marcos was given military honors with a 21-gun salute more than 27 years after his death in Honolulu, Hawaii. Photo from Ferdinand E. Marcos Presidential Center

division among Filipinos? Only 24 percent said YES. They said this will finally bring this issue to rest. An overwhelming majority

— 76 percent — said NO. They contended that wounds have been cut too deep when it comes to the Marcoses. They said the former dictator’s hero’s burial is

an issue that will be argued for expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian generations to come. Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions

to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https:// www.facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Monopolizing history, reifying Marcos as evil and deifying the Aquinos as heroes Analysis

antonio P. ContReRaS PUBLIC Attorneys Office Chief Persida Acosta became the object of criticism during her interview with the Judicial and Bar Council when she was asked about the Marcos burial, and for which she was woefully unprepared. But lost in the publicized dressing-down that she got was the eyebrow-raising demeanor of her tormentor, Retired Associate Justice Angelina Sandoval-Gutierrez herself. The retired justice did not hide her strong position against the Marcos burial and her agreement with the view of Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio in his dissenting opinion on the case,where he argued that Marcos was in fact

dishonorably discharged from military service. Marcos loyalists have always been accused of historical revisionism. But it looks like Justices Carpio and Sandoval-Gutierrezarealso guilty of blatantly revising history by interpreting the ouster of Marcos in 1986 as akin to a dishonorable discharge. Their argument stands on shaky ground. They argue that Marcos is part of the military as President, in being its Commander in Chief, and hence his ouster was a form of dishonorable discharge. This opinion reeks of judicial activism, and reveals a kind of logic that can only lead to ridiculous implications. Any dictionary definition of dishonorable discharge refers to it as being handed down by the military after a conviction in a general court-martial. It requires that the military is the one that makes the decision after due process, and not any other court, or more so, the

people. We cannot consider the first EDSA as akin to due process contemplated in a military court-martial. Furthermore, to argue that the President, as Commander in Chief, is part of the military can only but beg the question that he can also be court-martialed, which he cannot. Justice Sandoval-Gutierrez was also emphatic in saying that the people dishonorably discharged President Marcos. This is another problematic claim, for it would make us believe that those who participated in the first EDSA constituted the totality of the Filipino “people.” SandovalGutierrez even insisted that it is not a political question, but a well-established fact, in the same manner that she made a sweeping legal edict that Marcos is guilty of committing crimes involving moral turpitude, even if records show that there is no court that finally convicted Marcos of such kinds of crimes.

Furthermore, to imply that EDSA is a form of military discharge would mean forcing history to judge it as a purely military rebellion. This view is patently revisionist on its face, as it will divest the“people power revolution” of its “people.” But the elites do not see it that way. Views like those of Justices Carpio and SandovalGutierrez are not seen as revisionist. It is only those attempts to set the record straight that would benefit the Marcoses, even as they would serve truth, that are condemned as revisionist. History has now been monopolized and its writing hijacked by a discourse dominated by hatred towards the Marcoses. The Marcos critics have elevated a kind of history where Marcos and the Marcos era are pure evil. The state at the time, and all its organs, were seen as mechanically acting at the behest of the dictator. There is a palpable attempt to deny the

narratives of this problematic period in our nation’s history the complexity that it truly possessed. Only the narratives of the victims are considered as legitimate stories. There is no attempt to inquire into the human agencies involved in their victimization. Instead, what is deployed is the convenient and bureaucratic principle of command responsibility. Marcos is being judged as the architect, and thus the blood of every desaparecido is on his hands. This is a convenient narrative inremembering the pain, but not useful inmaking an accurate historical accounting of culpability. It is this narrative that condemns Marcos even as Fidel Ramos, who in fact had a more direct hand in enforcing the rule of terror, not only escapes culpability, but even has the audacity to demand that the Marcoses should apologize to the people for the crimes in which hehimself had an active part. History, as written by a dom-

inantly anti-Marcos post-martial law academia, effectively denied martial law the nuances that one has to apply in interpreting such a complex period. Marcos has been denied historicity, or in academic jargon, he has been reified. He has been confined to a black-andwhite narrative that reduced the period into simply a battle between the evil Marcoses and the good Aquinos. In this context, it is considered taboo to extricate the Marcos narrative from this reification for such would constitute historical revisionism. History in this context was monopolized by the elites, even as the Aquino bloodline was elevated to the position of demi-gods, deified and almost worshipped. Like all those who took part in the victimization, they also escape objective scrutiny for their culpability in the complex history of oppression which the Filipinos experienced under the cacique class to which they belong. (ManilaTimes.net)

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016

CJ

Journal

Your Immigration Solution NaNcy Miller HAVE you ever considered that America’s most famous icon is an immigrant? That’s right! The Statue of Liberty was “born” in France and brought to America by ship. The quintessential symbol of American liberty and freedom, Lady Liberty herself, is an “immigrant”. As the late Senator Ted Kennedy said “Immigration is the story of American History. Over the centuries, immigrants came to America from every part of the globe and made the American dream. They created a nation that is the envy of the world. “They came to a land that offers freedom and opportunity to those willing to do their part.” And do their part, they have! Immigrants have contributed to and enriched every aspect of American life. They built our cities, our railroads and highways. They cultivated our farmlands. They fought to defend their adopted home in every branch of the U.S. military. And, they even gave us Thanksgiving, the quintessential American holiday. The first recorded Thanksgiving ceremony took place on September 8, 1565 when 600 Spanish settlers landed in what is now St. Augustine, Florida and immediately held a Mass of Thanksgiving for their safe delivery to the New World. The Mass was followed by a feast and celebration. A Spanish expedition party rested and conducted a mass at San Elizario (near El Paso, Texas) in celebration of thanksgiving on April 30, 1598. On December 4, 1619, 38 English settlers arrived at Berkeley Hundred, which is about 20 miles north of Jamestown, Virginia. The group’s charter required that the day of arrival be observed yearly as a day of thanksgiving to G-d.

For immigrants’ contribution to America: A thank you! The modern Thanksgiving holiday is associated with a 1621 celebration at the Plymouth Plantation where the Pilgrims held a feast after a successful growing season. Sqauanto, a Native American who served as an interpreter for the Englishspeaking colony had taught the Pilgrims how to catch eel and grow corn. The Pilgrims set aside a day to celebrate immediately after their first harvest. That Thanksgiving feast lasted for three days and provided enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native Americans. It consisted of fowl, venison, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, squash and turkey. Since that time, a Thanksgiving Day has been proclaimed and celebrated periodically throughout our nationhood. However, the date was not officially set as the fourth Thursday of November until 1942. Regardless of where the immigrants came from and no matter when they arrived, they shared something in common with each other and with those who come to our shores today. They all wanted a better life for themselves and their families. They were also willing to work hard to get that better life. And, they were profoundly grateful to the country that gave them the opportunity for betterment. That is all still true. It is also still true that the country that benefitted so much from the early immigrants continues to benefit from those who come to our shores today. They bring energy and skill that enrich the lives of those with whom they come in contact. They start businesses and create jobs. They provide wonderful examples of family devotion by the sacrifices they make to unite

their families here and support their loved ones back home. At RMZD, we know how important families are. We recognize how much America owes to each person who has brought a unique contribution to this country. And we continue to strive to obtain justice and fairness for them. Fairness and justice means granting lawful status to those who devote their life and energy to make and keep this country great. It is fulfilling the promise of Lady Liberty who lifts her light of liberty beside the golden door. Since 1947, each year for Thanksgiving the President of the United States has pardoned a live turkey to allow it to live out its days in peace. Surely a country that has compassion for its turkeys can show compassion for its people. We hope that the Incoming President and First Lady and the members of Congress will remember that they are either immigrants or descendants of immigrants and will treat the immigrant community with the respect and dignity that they received when they got here. From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)

world against foreign investment, with more barriers than any other large Asean country,” THE Philippines must ease US Embassy Manila Trade Ofrestrictions on foreign investors ficer Brian Breuhaus said in a and improve infrastructure to statement over the weekend. The constitutional restrictions attract more investment, particularly from the United States, as on foreign investment, widely crucial steps to expanding trade known as the 60-40 rule, must be and growing the economy, a US relaxed, Breuhaus said. The Constitution stipulates official said. “The Philippines is one of the that only Philippine nationals most restrictive countries in the are allowed to operate a public by raadee

S. SaUSa ManilaTimes.net

utility. This applies to nearly all public-private partnership (PPP) projects. “No American firms have been involved in a PPP, and no foreign firms have taken the lead on a PPP, even though they could provide a huge amount of expertise. This would take a constitutional change,” Breuhaus said. The Philippines can also relax the limits set under the For-

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DOMINGUEZ SEEKS TO STANDARDIZE FISCAL INCENTIVES

‘PH tax breaks must be at par with Asean peers’ by Mayvelin

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez

THE Department of Finance (DOF) said the government’s income tax holidays should be at par with those of other Southeast Asian nations as the Philippines tries to liberalize its economy further and attract more foreign investment. In a statement released on Friday, Nov. 18, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said the government has to rationalize its

current fiscal incentives program while working on ways to develop a more open economy for foreign direct investment (FDIs). Dominguez said he has tasked Finance Undersecretary Karl Kendrick Chua to compare the country’s present set of tax breaks with those of the other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member-economies. “We are currently doing a line-by-line comparison between

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birth to age 18, where bones are to osteoporosis and frequent low calcium? Signs and symptoms of hy- forming and growing. Breast bone fractures. Calcium has pocalcemia vary depending on milk and milk formula are rich in been proven to minimize bone the severity. They are: muscle calcium, and it is important that loss after menopause and at the cramps, leg and feet tingling and the diet of a growing child is also same time making estrogen renumbness, dry skin, coarse hair, rich in calcium. Preschoolers and placement therapy work 3 times brittle nail, poor dentition, osteo- teenagers usually choose juice or more effectively, compared to porosis and fractures, bleeding soda with their meals and this estrogen alone. problem, seizures, angina, heart leads to inadequate calcium inu PAGE CJ3

Business News

Lopez: PH-US economic relations to remain stable under Trump by Richmond

S. meRcuRio

Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Prospects of Philippine trade and investment relations with the US under the regime of Republican Donald Trump are still looking good so far amid the US president-elect’s protectionist stance. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez is optimistic the US will maintain its policies, a move which will be beneficial for the Philippines. “What I believe in is he is a businessman who will be after the promotion and development of businesses in the US and if that’s the thinking then it will be something that will benefit the US businesses. That includes also keeping the current liberalized environment wherein businesses there will have access to imported inputs as needed by the business,” Lopez said. “So we expect a continuation of policies because it will be their economy that will be affected if they backtrack on many things. It’s so hard to backtrack on all these new economies where we are in already. It will make cost of doing business really high if they retract on some policies that they have right now,” he said. The trade chief, however, admitted that it is hard to see a clear picture yet as to where the Philippines and US trade relations will go as the government currently awaits for actual policies to be

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez

Singapore, US and Vietnam. implemented by Trump. “What we are seeing are Joining the TPP is seen to what’s written in the papers and provide more opportunities that it is so hard to base it from all the will further strengthen the Philpronouncements in the papers. ippines’ foothold in the global We have to wait for actual poli- market with the country’s entercies, so too early to comment,” prises, workers, and consumers benefiting from bigger markets Lopez said. Trump has promised a pro- and increased foreign investtectionist trade policy as well as ments. Barcelon also said the Philipopposed the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) which the pines’ relationship with US could turn out neutral or even better Philippines hopes to join. For his part, Philippine Cham- in hopes that Trump would not ber of Commerce and Industry want to meddle with other counpresident George Barcelon said tries’ affairs. “If the new state department he believes the TPP would not be ratified by the US in the mean- doesn’t criticize extrajudicial killings, it will be okay with Presitime. The TPP is an economic bloc dent Duterte. Then IT-BPO servcomposed of Australia, Brunei, ing US shouldn’t be affected and Canada, Chile, New Zealand, would grow as projected,” BarMexico, Malaysia, Japan, Peru, celon said. n

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NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Community Journal

The Trump presidency - What happens next?

The CTV Files AurorA VegA-Buzon, esq. WITH the incoming Trump presidency, there is a lot of fear and a lot of questions and uncertainties on what happens to immigration policies and enforcement when he takes office in January 2017. Mr. Trump’s campaign promises include banning Muslims; building a wall along the US-Mexico border; and immediately detaining and deporting all the 11 million or so undocumented aliens. For those of you who wish to know what immigration-related applications or benefits maybe available, get the facts and know your rights. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) strongly urges you to consult only with qualified immigration attorneys and stay away from scammers or notarios who will capitalize on the post-election fears and uncertainties. More recent pronouncements made by President-elect Trump and/or his advisers in-

dicate modified versions of his campaign promises: instead of deporting all the 11 million undocumented aliens, he will now focus on detaining and deporting 2-3 million “criminal aliens”. But the Obama Administration has been detaining and deporting criminal aliens for so many years now. During Obama’s 1st term of office, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) enforcement priorities focused on removing both aliens and legal permanent residents - who are threats to national security, border security, and public safety. There are 3 groups prioritized for removal: (1) Suspected terrorists, convicted felons (including aggravated felonies), convicted gang members, and persons apprehended on the border; (2) Persons convicted of significant misdemeanors (including DUIs, domestic violence, sexual abuse, unlawful possession or use of a firearm, drug offenses, etc.) or multiple misdemeanors; and recent border crossers (those who entered after January 1, 2014); and (3)

Other immigration violators like those who, after January 1, 2014, failed to leave under a removal order or returned after removal. It remains to be seen whether Mr. Trump will include those with convictions for minor offenses as part of the so-called “criminal aliens.” The San Diego Union Tribune reported that in the past 2 months alone before the November elections, DHS’ immigrant detainees (aliens and permanent residents combined) jumped from 33,957 in August to 41,037 detainees (November 22, 2016 article). And it’s costing the government $5 Million per day to house these detainees. The Tribune also published the statement of 12 former immigration judges regarding the increased detention: “On the basis of our experiences as immigration jurists, this comes at the expense of basic rights and due process. Eighty-six percent of detained immigrants do not have lawyers representing them, and due to the complexi-

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A grateful, humble heart

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

“Gratitude is the heart’s memory.”

— French Proverb

Monette ADeVA MAglAyA ABOUT 400 years ago, the first Pilgrims who settled in the New World celebrated Thanksgiving Day after their first harvest in 1621. With prayerful thanks in front of the food they harvested from the soil and feasting with Native Americans as honored guests, this tradition, has been preserved through much of American history by presidential proclamations beginning with George Washington and lives on to this day. Washington proclaimed, “It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor.” This first batch of immigrants was particularly grateful to Squanto, the Native American and former British slave who, not only acted as interpreter but also taught them the ropes on how to live off and with nature, teaching them how to fish, plant corn and generally survive the harsh conditions of the new land. There is strong reason and evidence to believe that without Squanto’s help, this group may not have survived the rigors of living in a harsh environment. For many ordinary people living mundane lives, Thanksgiving Day has become, not only as a tradition we go through the motions year after year, but something

PhiliP s. ChuA, MD, FACs, FPCs WHAT is an allergy? An allergy is a condition where the body overreacts following “contact” with an allergen (dust, molds, pollen, flower, dander, fur, animal protein from hair, perfume, cosmetics, medications--applied to skin or swallowed--food or drink, etc.). Symptoms could be as trivial as sneezing or as serious as sudden inability to breathe, shock and death. What is the incidence of allergies? About 10 percent of people have some form of allergies or another. So, almost 10 million Filipinos suffer from this malady. Luckily, most of the allergies people have are mild. If repeated exposures to the same allergen, at the same high dose, are allowed to occur, the symptoms could become more severe. What triggers the symptoms? Allergic reaction is triggered, and symptoms develop, when the body’s immune system detects the presence of an allergen. This automatic protective response is aimed at warding off any adverse effects of the “culprit substance” on the body by producing anti-

Organic products meet stringent standards Healthier for you & kids Organic food tastes better Organic farming respects natural resources Avoids pesticides & are artificial-fertilizer-free Non-GMO, no synthetic pesticides, no growth-promoting antibiotics There are many, many more reasons to go Organic. But in short: You’ll leave the world a better place than when you found it

with their families. Touche. Today, many in the immigrant population accept and relish this tradition of giving thanks to God for blessing a country that has been heaped with so much abundance, its cornucopia still filled to the brim, despite the many challenges it has faced for a protracted period of time. The immigrant whose head is screwed on tight and whose heart is in the right place can appreciate a bit more the significance of giving thanks to God for a country he has adopted to be his own, no matter the struggle and the rigors he has had to go through and which in turn, has accepted him to be a part of. Thanksgiving is a time to forget our petty concerns, tune out of the noise, confusion and melee that try our souls, and take absolute joy in the moment of just being alive. And if you are one of the lucky ones, Thanksgiving Day is a time to simply take quiet, humble joy in being blessed with the gift of one thing more, without which, hell has your soul in a stranglehold. This free gift is nothing more than the gift of a grateful, humble heart. HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL!!! *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Allergies

Health@Heart

why ORGANIC?

that gives crystal-clear meaning and purpose to our endeavors of facing increasingly challenging seasons year after year. Thanksgiving Day is widely observed by many in the US, as a day for family and friends to gather together in front of specially prepared food and with a prayerful attitude of thanksgiving to God, for the graces bestowed on each one. At the very least, for the bored and blasé, it is a most welcome 4-day break from the workaday world we live in. The squeeze on the byways is on specially now that gas prices are lower than usual. Expect the sky routes, roads and railways to be clogged with millions of travelers wanting to be with family on this special day. For many millions more, it is a special day to simply stay put within our homes, make a run for provisions at the corner supermarket, stuff a turkey or buy a spiraled ham and enjoy the blessings of hearth and home. Some big nationwide stores are bucking the previously held sacrosanct tradition of being close during Thanksgiving Day and opening their doors wide for business as usual. But one store published a message as some kind of rebuke to these megaretailers saying to the effect that they make enough during the rest of the year so they can be close on Thanksgiving Day to allow their workers to spend time

bodies and mobilizing the “immune soldiers into the battlefield to fight the invading foreign” substance. This is a natural part of the defense mechanism of our body. What are the symptoms of allergies? From the mild symptoms to the life-threatening ones, they could be one or a combination of the following: sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, red, itchy watery eyes, skin rashes or hives, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia (fast heart beat), dyspnea (difficulty breathing), wheezing, hypotension (drop in blood pressure), cardiac arrest (stoppage of heart beat), and death. While the last 3 situations are not common, they are nonetheless very significant and still far too many, especially because these are preventable disasters. Have there been deaths from exposure to animal hair? Yes, and two such sad and tragic deaths happened to my godson and, in a separate incident, to a friend’s daughter (both in their twenties), who died within an hour after exposure to horses in a barn. How about fatal allergy to MSG? A classmate of mine, a chest surgeon from California, was attending a meeting in Nice, France, a few years ago, when he

and his wife decided to eat oriental food, after a week of French cuisine. Inspite of their instruction to the waiter to make sure the chef did not add MSG (Mono Sodium Glutamate, a flavor enhancer) to the food they ordered because he was allergic to it, somehow MSG was used anyway. After ingesting a mouthful, my friend became very short of breath, collapsed, and died a couple of hours later from anaphylactic shock. What is Chinese Food Syndrome? Monosodium Glutamate has been used for years as a food enhancer in many recipes in restaurant or at home. People who are sensitive to MSG (whose food has a lot of MSG) may experience mild and transient warmth and flushing in the face and the rest of the body, some with mild chest tightness that goes away in a few minutes. Since many Chinese recipes call for the use of MSG, this reaction has been termed “Chinese Food Syndrome.” This is actually not an allergy, but there are some people to are really allergic to MSG. What is anaphylactic shock? This is a violent allergic reaction, which results in massive swelling and rapid closure of the air passages, precipitous drop in blood pressure, and death by

Business News

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IMF and ADB to give PH higher growth forecast by Mayvelin

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

MULTILATERAL institutions Asian Development Bank (ADB) and International Monetary Fund (IMF) are set to revise upward their growth outlooks on the Philippine economy to reflect the country’s strong third quarter gross domestic product (GDP). The Philippine GDP exceeded expectations in July to September, accelerating by 7.1 percent from a revised 6.2 percent a year earlier, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) reported on Thursday, Nov. 17, citing data from the statistics office. It said the country was the fastest growing Asian emerging economy among those that have released third-quarter data so far. ADB economist Aekopol Chongvilaivan said the lender’s current 6.4 percent growth outlook for the country may no longer apply to the Philippine growth prospects. “We are planning to revise upward our outlook to probably 6.7 percent to 6.8 percent for 2016,” he said during an economic forum organized by Center for Philippine Futuristics on Friday. Meanwhile, the IMF noted the third quarter GDP was led by a recovery in agriculture and continued strength in private consumption and gross investment. ‘[It] was faster than anticipated than in our 6.4 percent growth

forecast for 2016,” Shanaka Jayanath Peiris, IMF resident representative to the Philippines, told The Manila Times in response to an e-mailed query on Friday. He pointed out the IMF will mostly likely be revising its Philippine growth forecast in its next round of revisions for the world economic outlook. The government has set a GDP growth goal of 6 percent to 7 percent for the whole of 2016, from the actual 5.8 percent recorded in 2015. The economy only needs to grow by at least 3.4 percent in the fourth quarter to hit the lowend target of 6 percent, and by 6.9 percent to reach 7 percent, according to the NEDA. ADB’s Chongvilaivan said the Manila-based lender is set to up-

grade its 2017 forecast to incorporate the impact of next year’s national budget on the economy. The ADB plans to revise its outlook “somewhere between 6.5 percent and 6.7 percent for 2017,” he said. The Manilabased lender has forecasted a GDP growth of 6.2 percent for next year. “The reason why we plan to revise 2017 upward is because we also expect the P3.35 trillion 2017 budget to be approved. We know that it is very challenging to spend this amount by agencies, but we expect the significant increase in infrastructure spending next year,” he said. “Therefore, the growth next year will remain robust and the Philippine economy will continue to be strong,” he added. n

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Community Journal

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ THANKSGIVING is when people take a step back and reflect on all of the wonderful things and events to be grateful for, and to give thanks to those people who played such a key role in helping us achieve them. At this Thanksgiving, I would like to once again give thanks to all of the people who have been so kind and supportive of me and my immigration law practice. Thank you to all of my clients. I realize that you are the reason I am able to remain in business. I also know how important your immigration matter is in your life and in the life of your family. I appreciate your trust and confidence in my office, in allowing us to handle such an important matter. Thank you to the entire Filipino community. I truly appreciate your warmth and support, and I thank you for all of your letters and emails telling me how you enjoy my articles and television show, Citizen Pinoy. I am happy to be of service to you, and I will continue to support Filipino events and causes. Thank you to ABS-CBN, TFC, and the entire crew of Citizen

Pinoy, who share my vision of providing a public-service program to the Filipino community concerning immigration information. It makes me so proud and happy when people come up to me, saying that they watch Citizen Pinoy every single week, and have learned so much from the real life stories and questions and answers presented. I thank all the crew of Citizen Pinoy for their hard work, dedication, and passion for this worthy public service. Thank you to all of our friends in the media, who through their prestigious publications, enabled us to reach those who need our services and inform the Filipino community about newsworthy immigration information. You serve as an avenue to help “BRING FAMILIES TOGETHER” and help “MAKE THE AMERICAN DREAM COME TRUE.” Thank you to my staff. Your tireless efforts and dedication to our clients are the main reasons we can continue to provide quality service to our many loyal clients. Thank you to my wife, Millie. People say that behind every successful man, there is a Filipina wife. After many years of

marriage, I know it’s true. Words cannot express my gratitude for your help, support and dedication to our business. You are the “wind beneath my wings.” And most of all, thank you to the Almighty. Without His blessings, benevolence, and guidance, none of this would be possible. May He allow me to continue to be able to assist people with their problems, and allow the prayers of all people to be answered and fulfilled. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

Politics remains major risk to Philippine growth – think tank

“In the short term at least, we expect the econMANILA, Philippines — UK- omy will continue based think tank Capital Econom- growing at a deics said politics remain a major cent pace. With risk to the robust economic ex- inflation subdued, pansion of the Philippines. the central bank Gareth Leather, senior Asian looks set to keep economist at Capital Economics, interest rates low, said the Philippine economy re- which should supmains in good health with gross port investment,” domestic product (GDP) growth he said. accelerating to 7.1 percent in the According to Gareth Leather third quarter, making the coun- Leather, prospects try the fastest growing economy for consumption, which is bein the region. ing supported by a combination The GDP expansion in the of rapid wage growth, healthy third quarter was faster than the household finances and buoyant seven percent growth registered sentiment, are also good. in the second quarter of the year He explained a strong fiscal and brought to 71 the number of position means there is scope for quarters wherein the Philippines the government to boost spendhas been posting positive GDP ing. growth. Meanwhile, he said low debt “Looking ahead, the founda- levels and a current account surtions are in place for growth to plus mean the country is well-poremain strong, but recent political sitioned to weather any negative events, both in the US and do- shift in investor sentiment. mestically, have made the outlook Leather said the medium-term much less certain,” Leather said. outlook for the Philippines has Capital Economics is keeping become much less certain followits GDP growth forecast at seven ing the election of Donald Trump percent for this year and 6.5 per- as the next US president. cent in 2017. “While it remains to be seen if by Lawrence

agcaoiLi Philstar.com

Allergies

suffocation. In some cases, bee stings have caused anaphylactic shock. How common is food allergy? Medical reports have shown that about 2% (two out of a hundred) of adults and about 8% of children have true food allergies. Food allergy is not the same as food intolerance (like stomach aches following ingestion of milk for those with deficiency of lactase, the enzyme that digests lactose--milk and milk products). Food intolerance is due to body metabolism and does not involve the immune system. Some people are allergic to shellfish, peanuts, a few to chicken. Cow’s milk, soy, wheat and eggs are common cause of allergies in children. In some cases, children outgrow their allergies, but early peanut allergy can be for life, although new strategy using desensitization is now being used to treat them. What are the signs of an allergic reaction? Sneezing, skin rashes or hives, runny nose, swelling of the lips or tongue, stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and in more severe cases, anaphylactic shock as described above. How about allergies to food additives? Adverse allergic reactions to some food additives have been reported. Among some of them

are aspartame (as in Equal, a sweetener), MSG, FD&C Yellow No. 5 (a food color also known as tartrazine), and sulfites (sulfurbased preservatives). Following controlled studies in aspartame, the FDA determined it is not an allergen, and that aspartame is safe. Pregnant women with high level of phenylalanine in the blood, some people with a genetic disease called PKU (phenylketonuria), and those with advance liver disease have a problem with aspartame because these people do not metabolize the amino acid called phenylalanine, which is a component of aspartame. High levels of phenylalanine in the body can cause brain damage. Are sulfite preservatives allergens? Yes, sulfites, which are antioxidants used to prevent or reduce discoloration of light colored fruits and vegetables and also to inhibit the growth of bacteria in fermented foods, like wine, are allergens. Although majority of people do not have problems with sulfites, those sensitive to them, especially those with asthma, can develop mild to lifethreatening symptoms. Does maternal smoking cause allergies in children? Cigarette smoking during pregnancy has been shown to increase the incidence of allergies among the newborns. Rarely, specific allergies can be “inherited” from the parents. Studies have confirmed the assessment

Trump will follow through on some of his more protectionist policies, if he did, the repercussions for the Philippines would be significant,” Leather said. Cash remittances to the Philippines from the US are equivalent to three percent of the country’s GDP while exports to the US are equivalent to four percent. Likewise, he said the country’s booming business outsourcing (BPO) sector would also be hit hard by any attempt to bring back jobs to the US. The economist added President Rodrigo Duterte continued to unnerve investors with a series of controversial comments and erratic foreign policy changes. “With Duterte in charge it is hard to rule out a sudden shift in economic policy or a disruption of the political stability that has characterized the last six years. Either would cause sentiment to sour and growth prospects to weaken,” Leather said. n that avoidance by the mother of food allergens may reduce the incidence of some food allergies in infants and young children. What is the best treatment regimen for allergies? As with any medical condition or illness, prevention is the key. Avoidance of all known allergens is the best regimen in dealing with allergies and asthmatic attacks. Those who have food or drug allergies must read all ingredient labels and be extra cautious before ingesting anything. Fortunately, severe allergic reactions are not very common. Those with more than mild to severe form of allergies must be trained by a physician on the life-saving technique of self-injection of 0.1 ml (one tenth of a cc) epinephrine (adrenalin) subcutaneously (under the skin) when symptoms first begin to manifest following exposure to known allergens. In this dire situation, every minute counts, and 5 or 10 minutes may spell the difference between life and death. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

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Thanksgiving is a time for giving thanks

Immigration Corner

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-DECEMBER 1, 2016

ourselves and our competitors in Asean. Karl Chua is doing this together with some members of our staff, so that we can really compare apples to apples,” he said. He also disclosed that the DOF is not rushing its fiscal incentives rationalization bill “because we want time to consult, to really think and check what’s going on around the Asean region.” But with the limited financial government resources, the DOF chief said that profitable business ventures should no longer

be subsidized by the government, but should, instead, focus only on industries relevant to the current environment. The new tax incentives program should address the viability gap, very targeted, and in favor of performance-based types of tax incentives, Dominguez said. The Secretary added that there must be sunset provisions in granting tax incentives as the government cannot perpetually subsidize investment activities. “Forty is an important number for us because some of those companies have been here for

40 years,” he said, noting that the Philippines has been unreasonably generous in providing preferential rate on taxes for enterprises. “When you say those guys [other countries]are giving tax breaks for 25 years… we’ve been at it for more than 40 years. So, I don’t think we’re really behind in providing such incentives,” he said. The DOF is currently drafting a bill seeking to lower corporate income tax rate to 25 percent, but is at the same time proposing the rationalization of fiscal incentives. n

AN ENCORE EPISODE ABOUT A “SPECIAL CHILD” ON ’CITIZEN PINOY!’ When Mommy Conchita (center) immigrated to the US in 2007, she had to make a difficult decision of leaving her special needs daughter, Nina (left) behind in the Philippines. It was a difficult time, because mother and daughter had never been separated before. Nina was left behind with her older sister Ruth, who was later about to migrate to Australia in May 2016. With Mommy Conchita and Ruth gone, who will take care of Nina? Find out how leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel was able to bring Nina to the US through Humanitarian Parole, on a brand new episode of Citizen Pinoy on Sunday, Nov. 27 at 6:15 p.m. PST on TFC.

DOT creating database on tourism destinations Alma Jimenez said. Jimenez said the initiative would pave the way for more MANILA, Philippines — The innovative tourism products and Department of Tourism (DOT) guide tourism development proplans to come up with a data- grams. “The more important priorities base, which will list all destinations in the country in response we are addressing include estabto the ever-changing preferences lishing the database and doing of tourists and tourism investors. the required analytics to make “We are starting with an exten- sure we have all the information sive inventory of our destinations about every destination at our so we will know who offers what fingertips,” she said. “This will allow us to quickly and what are the capabilities of each destination to deliver on react to inquiries and even tourexpectations,” Tourism Under- ism investments,” she added. According to Jimenez, the secretary for regulation, coordination and resource generation DOT’s direction is currently cenby Mary

grace Philstar.com

Padin

tered on customized and nichespecific marketing and promotion campaigns. The agency has organized special project development teams who would create niche products to introduce more tourism segments to the traveling market. Jimenez said the DOT was developing tourism offerings focused on various thematic clusters, such as fitness, fun, family, farm and faith tourism. “The overall direction is to create a country tourism program and enable the regions to cross-sell, promote each other and get real tourism numbers up,” she said. n

‘Ease foreign investment limits,’ US… PAGE CJ1 t

eign Investment Negative List, he said. Breuhaus underscored the need for better infrastructure, including roads, airports, seaports and internet connectivity. For a start, a Single Window in Customs could make it easier for goods to be shipped here. The Trade Facilitation Agreement at the World Trade Organization

must also be approved, the US official noted. “This [Single Window] is a promise the Philippines has made under Asean,” Breuhaus stressed. The US is among the largest foreign investors in the Philippines, with a current stock of $4.7 billion in Philippine placements. The Philippines is the 30th largest source of US merchandise imports, and the 32nd larg-

est export destination for US products. Breuhaus noted the USled Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) promotes economic growth, creates jobs and opportunities, and deepens economic integration in the Asia Pacific region. The TPP covers 40 percent of global gross domestic product and 30 percent of world trade. n

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People & Events Global Investment Council welcomes National CARAGA dev’t project featured at Association of Realtors delegates from the PH Global Action Leadership Forum

NAR Delegates from the Philippines meeting with the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors in San Jose, California.

SAN JOSE, Calif. — The Global Investment Council for the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors (SCCAOR) recently hosted the National Association of Realtors (NAR) delegation from the Philippines. The event, held at the SCCAOR Offices in San Jose, featured presentations and Q&A sessions where the delegates answered questions and discussed the current real estate trends in the Philippines. The event was attended by local realtors, members of the public, and local gov-

ernment officials, including Milpitas City Council Member Garry Barbadillo. “We are so excited to welcome the NAR Delegates from the Philippines to the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors,” said SCCAOR CEO Neil Collins during a presentation at the event. “SCCAOR is dedicated to working with the international community to better understand trends in the global real estate landscape, and we are proud to be a local

Walnut Creek author shares insights, personal experiences in Christian living through new book WALNUT CREEK, Calif. — Author Vorriece Cooper announces the nationwide release of his new book, “Sacred Mischief.” In “Sacred Mischief,” the readers will see that inside them lies a wealth of hope, waiting to be explored, explained by those searching for destiny. “Sacred Mischief” expresses that you were not put here by accident. Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the belly I knew you, and before you came out of the womb I sanctified thee and I ordained thee a prophet to the nations.” The problem, however, is that the process of arriving to that predestined place is the making and shaping that people go through to build the character that they will need to keep them there with integrity, helping the

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weak and less fortunate. Come and take a journey into Cooper’s life experience, for he is sure it will bring clarity to the question why. Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com or amazon.com. Cooper is a musician, artist, historian, lecturer, activist and, now, author. He provides tremendous introspection in every presentation in order to better impact his target audience. He shares, “The only, for sure, obstacle to truth is to think that you already have it, for truth is a journey, not a destination.” Cooper currently resides in Walnut Creek, California. n

resource for our multicultural members.” One the delegates in attendance was Evangeline Yia, the VP for International Affairs at the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Associations (CREBA) in the Philippines. As a liaison between the Philippines and NAR, she discussed her positive outlook on the relationship between NAR and realtors in the Philippines. “NAR will really help realtors in the Philippines level up their professionalism and code of ethics,” Yia said. “With NAR’s help, we are lifting the bar of excellence.” The attendees at the event enjoyed traditional cuisine from the Philippines, and many guests wore traditional Filipino clothing. Jennifer Tasto, a Californiabased realtor and currently the NAR President’s Liaison to Philippines, informed the crowd that the National Association of Realtors has over 4,000 International members, and almost 700 of those realtors are from the Philippines. “A lot of this success has come from the support and hard work of Evangeline Yia, CREBA leadership, and the International Real Estate Members of the Philippines,” she said. CREBA is a non-profit that was established in the Philippines in 1973. It is the recognized umbrella organization of some 4,000 firms, individuals and associations directly or indirectly involved in land and housing, construction, allied industries and various professional fields of discipline. Sharmin Albacete, CREBA’s Executive Director, said that his organization was chosen in 2011 as the exclusive cooperating association of NAR in the Philippines. “As the sole partner of NAR in the Philippines, we are committed to help promote the highest degree of ethics in the real estate profession,” said Albacete. “Our partnership with NAR has allowed us to gain insights on how other countries are able to address their own housing issues and explore new ideas.” For more information, visit www.sccaor.com. n

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Linking thought leadership and investments with urban and rural models for global sustainable development was the underlying theme of the 2016 Global Action Leadership Forum at the World Bank held on October The Forum entitled “Scalable, Sustainable Solutions for Abundant Food, Health and Prosperity,” provided an opportunity for a general update on the mission and activities of the Global Action Platform (GAP) and its partners, Indigenous People’s Economic Union (IPEU) and Global Partnership for Sustainable Solutions (GPSS), with respect to its rural solutions project in the Philippine CARAGA Administrative Region in northeastern Mindanao. The CARAGA project is part of the GAP’s efforts to advance scalable, sustainable solutions for abundant food, health and prosperity in the urban and rural settings around the world. In the CARAGA project, the GAP, GPSS and IPEU are creating strategic action plans for the development of 1.2 million acres (485,622 hectares) of undeveloped land in the southern Philippines that are covered by the Certificates of Ancestral Domain Title (CADTs) of the various members of the IPEU. The area is expected to expand from its initial scale to some 5-10 million acres. The project offers the opportunity to create an approach to rural development at scale and in a way that can be replicated and used to advance the innovative food solutions to feed the world’s growing population. In his remarks at the Forum, Mr. Jose Victor V. Chan-Gonzaga, Minister for Economic Affairs at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., noted that

the CARAGA project fits perfectly into the Philippine Government’s economic agenda item on promoting rural and value chain development towards increasing agricultural and rural enterprise productivity, including in rural tourism. “This project also complements the priorities of an Administration that recognizes the great potential and importance of bringing the opportunities and benefits of a vibrant and dynamic economy to the countryside,” Mr. Chan-Gonzaga said. The subsequent panel discussion also provided the chance to discuss specific issues such as the role of universities in these solutions, the importance of stakeholder-mapping to eliminate inefficiencies and duplication, and how to deal with various government agencies and other constituents. “We are grateful for the growing partnership among all the relevant government agencies in the Philippines, such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the National Commission for Indigenous Peoples, for the development of a CARAGA CADT Comprehensive Development Plan and an Agricultural - Aquaculture - Agroforestry Training Center for Indigenous Peoples. Together with our partners at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Philippine Consulate General in New York, we look forward to great collaboration with both the Philippine government and the World Bank for a peaceful, productive, and prosperous CARAGA,” said Bryan Thomas, GPSS CEO and Managing Partner, during his presentation. For his part, Dr. Scott Masey,

GAP Chairman and CEO, said that “as the non-profit partner of the IPEU and GPSS, Global Action Platform has been pleased to showcase our CARAGA Comprehensive Development Project at the United Nations during UNGA week, and now at the World Bank this week. We thank Minister Chan-Gonzaga of the Philippine Embassy for joining us at the Forum in presenting our collaboration to Bank officials and private sector leaders to help advance this important new initiative for the indigenous people and for the Philippines.” GAP is an international university-business alliance to advance scalable and sustainable solutions to meet the global food and health challenges of a world of ten billion. GPSS brings socially and environmentally responsible companies, institutions, and investors together into emerging markets for scalable, sustainable, shared value development solutions. And the IPEU is the organization of thirty one Lumad (indigenous) Tribes of central and eastern Mindanao in the Philippines. The Forum was co-sponsored by the GAP and the Agriculture Global Practice of the World Bank Group. It was attended by World Bank executives and officials, as well as external investors and sponsors. Aside from the CARAGA project discussion, there were also presentations from Jean-Claude Saada, Chairman and CEO of Cambridge Holdings, on the oneCITY project in Nashville that is designed as a mindful, healthy living community; and Suparno Banerjee, Vice President of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, on using information technology as a disruptive enabler for social resilience. n

The Trump presidency - What happens… PAGE CJ2 t

ties of the immigration system, it is extremely difficult to win a case without a lawyer. It’s virtually impossible for someone who doesn’t understand the system and isn’t a lawyer to successfully represent themselves. “

Be informed about the law this article is for general information only and available relief, get the and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorneyfacts and know your rights. client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an *** Atty. Aurora Vega-Buzon is a partner in Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and Philippines. The information presented in

in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 495-8088; auvega@ctvattys.com

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Friday, November 25, 2016

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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - November 25, 2016

Breaking boundaries and borders through traditions CounterPulse Performing Diaspora feature Fil-Am artist Sammay Dizon and dana e.fitchett CouNterPulse’s seven-year-old artist residency program Performing Diaspora is proud to present works from two emerging, radical Bay Area choreographers — sammay Dizon and dana e. fitchett — from December 1-4 in san Francisco. Performing Diaspora focuses supporting artists that are drawing on tradition in new and radical ways to be responsive, inclusive, and supportive in driving equity. the CounterPulse Artist

residency & Commissioning Programs offers emerging, local performing artists space and the technical and administrative support to create new work, carving space for experimentation and risk-taking by lifting many of the responsibilities of self-production. this year, Fil-Am choreographer/producer and interdisciplinary performance artist samantha “sammay” Dizon brings onstage ‘silbihan,’ a multimedia dance theatre

Sammay Dizon’s photos (on cover and inside) by Baltazar Jonnel Dasalla.

piece that reflects on personal experiences of first-generation Filipina-American daughters and their migrant mothers from womb to present day. this piece investigates the (dis)connections between mothers and daughters of the diaspora through the lens of religion versus spirituality — centered on the daughters’ discovery of the babaylan: a woman who serves the community through her role as a folk therapist, wisdom-keeper and philosopher; provides stability to the community’s social structure; and can access the spirit realm and other states of consciousness. In collaboration with Joshua Icban (composer/musician), solitaire Miguel (documentarian/media artist), Gregory Manalo (cinematographer), and JoAnna ursal (choreographer/ performing artist)—‘silbihan’ will be an orchestration of past, present and future dialectics as sammay unravels what the Filipina migrant mother could embody had she not been born into a colonized country of Catholicism, under the spell of amnesia from spanish occupation and us imperialism. Would the relationship between mother/daughter be an opportunity for shared feminine and spiritual ideals had she not been coerced to do away with her native traditions? Are mothers and daughters open to healing intergenerational trauma and retroactively celebrating the indigenous spirit as a way of life? on the contrary, are there post-colonial values that have been passed down that shine light on an alternative yet sustainable way

Pictured L to R: Devon Fitchett, Dana Fitchett. Photo by Jorge Galvez.

of being in this 21st century navigation? As a rooted millennial constantly navigating back in time to what once was and still ought to be—sammay encounters the challenges of uniting the two generations into meaningful exchange and understanding. through one-on-one interviews with five mother-daughter pairs, sammay will uncover their stories and realize possibilities for the future. Just one of the many daughters redefining what ‘fulfillment’ in contemporary American society looks/feels like, sammay is building a bridge for ongoing dialogue and intentional redirection for the maternal bond through investigative performance. sammay is of Kapampangan, Ilokano and Bicol descent. she defines her body as a “tool of resonance” for spiritual intercession and envisions a future in which our indigenous traditions co-exist with(in) our urban landscapes. sammay is the founder of urBAN x INDIGeNous: an inter-generational multi-disciplinary arts festival and was a guest artist through A/P/A Institute at NYu for the first ever Indigenous Dance Forum curated by Jack Gray. she has been featured through Diego rivera Art Gallery, red Poppy Art House, and Dance Mission theater’s D.I.r.t. - Dance In revolt(ing) times Festival among others. to follow sammay’s journey, visist www.sammaydizon. com. Also featured in this year’s

Performing Diaspora is dana e. fitchett’s ‘unending.’ Approaching movement and drawing alike with staunch commitment to maintaining authenticity, dana e. fitchett carves new space within the oppressive societal context of 21st century usA. Patriarchy, white supremacy, and capitalism reign supreme, but dana uses her artmaking to reject imposition of the dominant narrative, give herself space to be, and give others permission to do the same. While ballet training in her formative years emphasized severe limitations on movement, Black social dance spaces later offered dana liberation through permission to access her full range of motion. this interplay of structure and freedom drives the thinking behind unending. the east Coast soulful house music club scene is about love and freedom and is the space that dana credits for teaching her to dance. While the scene hosts a vast sample of the population, it is undeniably a historically Black American tradition. Here, people come together to connect, release, celebrate life, and be in community, but through collective individual expression via authentic movement. Influences from these two drastically different dance cultures have resulted in a consistently textured but constantly evolving movement vocabulary that draws from both lineages but mimics neither. ‘unending’ draws inspiration from these musings of individual and collective iden-

tity, as well as from the current reality of Black life in America. the work is inspired by the complex and compelling conundrum that commitment to unadulterated individuality can both facilitate and obstruct progress toward oneness and universalism. With a focus on pure movement exploration through timing and patterns, dana makes observations, suggestions, and inquiries about the ways we relate to one another and ourselves at the sites of identity and relationship formation. dana e. fitchett is a multidisciplinary artist and radical mixedrace Black woman who uses her relationship to music, visual art, and movement as a sandbox for exploration of identity and issues of justice, and for seeking healing from racism and capitalism through the reimagination of possibilities. trained in classical ballet from a young age, dana later explored a vast range of movement styles, including tap, modern, hip-hop, and jazz, from all different cultural traditions. In the early- to mid-2000s, she was put on to underground house music clubs in Boston, New York, and other cities on the east Coast; in these clubs, she was able to access her authentic movement, unlimited by artificial and imposed barriers. Performing Diaspora 2016 is from December 1-4, thursday-saturday at 8 p.m. / sunday at 3 p.m.; at 80 turk street, san Francisco. For tickets: http://counterpulse.org/event/performing-diaspora-2016/. (AJPress)

Anthony Diaz V tackles domestic issues and adjusting to a new culture in new film by Jerry

Donato Philstar.com

FIl-AM Anthony Diaz V shared his first full-length film “Break” with his kababayan in a screening held at the Power Plant Mall Cinema 3. the film is the culmination of his creative narrative as young auteur—and the first step to bigger platforms like the sundance Film Festival, founded by robert redford. Anthony has submitted Break to the festival. “I’ve always been passionate with film since I was a little kid,” recalled Anthony. “I would always have movie nights with my family or with my father… I was always interested in and wondering (about) the characters’ motivation and what they are in stories.” that enthusiasm didn’t translate into an earlier foray into Behind the camera: Anthony considers Mel Gibson, Ben Affleck and Robert Rodriguez his influences. ‘I filmmaking, exploring its nittyreally like to raise questions in my stories. I really like people to think when they leave the theater.’ gritty. Anthony was sidetracked to theater. “Break” started out as short rich people”). In “Break,” An“In theater, I was a big acting film titled “A lunch Break” that thony shared, “It’s the Japanese geek. I got bitten by the acting Anthony made when he was 17 mindset of thinking that they are bug. I started out as an actor with friends in las Vegas. supposedly the superior race growing up. But then as I got “It was just a short film... I in terms of culture and lifestyle older, around 12 to 13 years old, just decided to change the story as compared to others. they my dad bought me my first little a little bit, add some American think their society is a perfect cheap camera. that’s when I flavor to it and mix that with society. For example in ‘Break,’ started creating stories by myself I came here (in Japan) thinking Japanese culture, change diawith my brothers and sisters and logues and add some characters I wanna show the ghetto side. I other family members. then that’s wanna show people that every and make it a bit a grand story. when I started venturing out the challenge with that was the culture or every country to go to behind the camera.” language barrier. the language has a ghetto side. And I wanted From being part of the stage barrier was very hard. Nobody to bring that to the forefront. ensemble, Anthony jumped over spoke english. With the (JapaBecause everybody that sees to the other side, so to speak, to nese) actors, I had to train them Japan, it’s always about cherry be in charge of his film’s mise en to speak english. And I had to blossoms, kimonos... But I scene—carefully crafting its look learn Japanese for my lines.” really like to raise questions in and tone. Another “roadblock” Anthomy stories. I really like to make According to Anthony, most ny had to hurdle was the fact that people think when they leave of his works are narratives, “Noth- the theater. Whether it is good guerilla shooting is not allowed ing, no documentary work like in Japan. However, his hard work or bad or they hated it, I want that.” He is showing his A-game paid off since Anthony’s film got them to really think about what as a narrator of a “moving fiction” they just saw.” an awesome reception from but based on facts that he must As a director, Anthony said he the Japanese who attended the have observed as an American private screening. feels that “I have a unique voice adult and as a sojourner abroad. like his influence Mel Gibson, to be heard because I grew up “this is actually my first fullAnthony starred in “Break” and in California and in some rough length feature,” said Anthony. he wrote, directed, edited and neighborhood of California and “I’ve done a lot of short films produced it. (I’ve been) traveling ever since I in college and high school and the feelings of loneliness was a young kid with my father all middle school... I do stories that and alienation (which are part of over Asia. I’ve gotten to experiare very controversial. I like to do ence to see some parts of the the internal struggles of Anthostories that actually people are ny’s character) and the family world that not many people, afraid to tell. that’s my type of drama make the film relatable to even the young generation, have mantra.” seen before. so I feel like I can be places like the Philippines, whose so far, the themes Anthony people value family ties and have a voice for many different counhas explored range from racism their own tales of diaspora in tries, for many different themes, to inequality (“Poor people vs. finding greener pastures. for other people.”

entertainment SF3

Vina Lelim Nacionales: A beauty queen with a golden heart By Monet

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – November 25, 2016

Angelica Panganiban: 24 years and counting

Lu

EvErybody has a story. Each story bears a fascinating reason that explains why the characters are the way they are. I’ve always believed in how our past could mold our present. It doesn’t define our future, but it sure does help us become what we are now. I love hearing stories with a rags-to-riches, Cinderella plot. Whenever I think of them, one particular story sticks out – and it is my dear friend vina’s life story. vina Lelim-Nacionales is the CEo of Nacionales & Associates, which was founded in 1998. but even before becoming a CEo, vina’s entrepreneurial skills and survival instincts were already evident as a teenager. being the second of seven siblings, vina took it upon herself to help feed her family by selling bread and rice. Her father was a farmer while her my mother was a street vendor. In order for her to finish school, she worked in a sewing company as a secretary and bookkeeper. Her hard work paid off when she earned her bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Iloilo in the Philippines. despite their hard life, vina grew more ambitious and driven. She came to America with just $10 in her wallet and took on odd jobs to get by. Life took a different turn for vina when she worked for Mrs. Sara Freeman, wife of the former mayor of beverly Hills, as her private nurse. Soon after, she took Mrs. Freeman into her home (which she later converted into a board and care facility) and took care of her for 12 years. Within a few years, she became a successful entrepreneur, a licensed state administrator for a residential care facility and a licensed certified nurse of the State of California. She’s also a realtor and a philanthropist. She received several recognitions as a community leader including, Word of Life Giving Ministries Awardee 2012, National Association of Senior Care Awardee 2011, and Excellence in Health Care Services Awardee 2014. She was also recognized by L.A. City Mayor Eric Garcetti, and City of Carson Mayor Jim dear. As most people know, vina

by IrIsh

is a beauty queen. To name a few accolades, she won Mrs. Asia Classic International 2015, Mrs. Asia Classic International Charity Queen 2015, Mrs. Asia Classic International Popularity Queen 2015 and Mrs. Asia Classic International of Goodwill 2015 – all these titles she won when she represented the Philippines in a beauty pageant in Malaysia. Just last year, she was crowned “Queen of the Philippines – World” by The beautiful Life Celebration held at the omni Hotel. I caught up with vina some a few days ago and as always, she wears a welcoming smile on her face like the beauty queen that she is. I asked her if she has other plans in the future that she wishes to pursue since it sure looks like she is ready to take on the world. “I think I’ve done everything already. Working since the age of 17 makes you want to just spend more time traveling and enjoying the years ahead. It’s the one thing I don’t have time for, but wish to do especially now that I just turned 70, “she answered. It was vina’s birthday a few weeks ago. A party was thrown in her honor and it’s so unfortunate that I didn’t make it that evening because I was feeling under the weather. “I see myself retiring soon but I still want to do community service, “vina added. Aside from being awarded as an outstanding mother and busi-

nesswoman, she has also received the outstanding community leader award, and was given a plaque of appreciation and recognition by the FAPPCA (Filipino American Press Club of California) for her continuous support and service to the Filipino-American community. With all these achievements, I asked my friend who her greatest influences in life are. “I think one of them is Trump,” she kidded. “but seriously, I admire oprah and how her life turned out. She inspires me.” vina has two children and five grandchildren. Her son Harry is a director of nursing in a large hospital, and is married to violeta dasal who is also a nurse. They have three daughters: Cailin, Samantha and rylee Paige. vina’s daughter riza, is a nurse supervisor in a rehab health care and skilled nursing facility, is married to Michael Stanley ruiz, an MdS Nurse in a skilled facility. They have two kids, Michael Justin ‘MJ’ and Alaiza. *** 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

ChrIstIanne DIzon Philstar.com

NoT many 30-year-olds can say they have been working for 24 years. but this is Angelica Panganiban’s reality. When she was six years old, her mother became fixated on the idea of her cherubfaced baby girl joining a “Little Miss SM” contest. “Gustong-gusto niya kasing dine-dress up ako. Lagi niya akong isinasali sa mga sagala. Yung mga kamag-anak, mga friends, kinukuha akong abay, flower girl. So sa ganun ako nag-start,” Angelica begins. It’s not that Angelica doesn’t want to be an expert at juggling multiple jobs. And she sounds sincere when she expresses her respect for celebrities who go straight from a teleserye taping to a movie shoot. Angelica knows herself very well and is aware she’s not built for this kind of schedule. “Ako kasi ‘pag puyat, may tendency na uminit yung ulo ko or minsan tatamarin na ‘ko. Yung, ‘Puwede na ’to.’ Ayokong magkaroon ng kahit na anong ganung moment sa mga projects na gagawin ko.” In 2015, she dedicated her energy to reprising the iconic Madame Claudia role in the “Pangako Sa ’yo” reboot and didn’t say yes to any other offers. Aside from the story’s genre (“heavy drama”), the character she was playing (Madam Claudia is a “driven, ruthless, and manipulative woman tormented by her past,” clarifies Star Creatives’ Angelica Sales), and the punishing schedule (“Hand to mouth kami eh, so kung ano yung shinushoot namin ng umaga, pinapalabas na namin ng gabi.”), her congenital heart problem made things difficult. Fatigue makes her palpitate, something she keeps secret to avoid inconveniencing the people on set. “Kahit inaatake na ako, tinutuloy lang namin yung eksena. Kasi nagpa-panic sila, natataranta sila, gusto nila ko itakbo kaagad sa ospital.” She has prescribed medication for these attacks, but the meds make her “groggy,” making inhabiting Madam Claudia’s reptilian skin a real “struggle.” ‘The Unmarried Wife’ Which is why in March this

Angelica Panganiban

year, a month after “Pangako Sa ’yo” wrapped up, she nearly turned down the offer to play scorned spouse Anne victorio in the movie “The Unmarried Wife.” When they told her it was going to be a drama film, Angelica politely declined, telling her bosses that she’d rather focus on comedy for now. (“Napapanaginipan ko pa yung show eh. Nagigising ako sa madaling araw kasi feeling ko late ako sa call time. Tapos minsan sa panaginip ko hinahanap ako sa set, tapos sinasabi ko sa sarili ko sa panaginip ko, ‘Hoy, tapos na yung show. Matulog ka, ’wag kang gumising tapos

na yung show.”) but they were insistent, telling her, “Pakinggan mo muna.” Angelica did, and she reconsidered. The story written by vanessa valdez, revolves around young couple Anne and Geoff (played by dingdong dantes), and how the latter’s infidelity wrecks their marriage and their family. Anne, for a time, is a brand manager, mother and wife, in that order, which becomes her husband’s excuse to philander. After he cheats on her for a second time, Anne unexpectedly finds solace in bryan (played by Paulo Avelino), a man who smells like cigarettes and takes her for ATv rides in the rough roads of rizal. Some dismiss The Unmarried Wife as just another kabit film, but it succeeds where others have failed: to go beyond dishing out quotable quotes, to establish that concubinage is not just against the law of God, but also against the law of man — that there are legal repercussions when you engage in it. (Also refreshing to note: No wife versus mistresses sampalan!) This film is more nuanced than the ones that came before it. In a confrontation scene between the mother of the wife and the Continued on Page SF4

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celebrityworld

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - November 25, 2016

celebrity world By Ferdie Villar

For the merry month of December, world boxing champion and Philippine senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, heads the list of prominent personalities celebrating their birthdays. The world-famous boxer will be celebrating another year of his life on Saturday, December 17. others who are celebrating their birthdays this month are: December 4 - Former Miss rP-USA Sara Atienza Leong, and singer Yeng Constantino; December 6 - Philippines Today Vice President for operations Thelma Cruz; December 7 - GMA Pinoy TV / Channel 7 President Atty. Felipe Gozon, Susan Gonzales of Dr. roco’s Medical office, and Harris Jewelry gold manufacturer and proprietress Josie Harris; December 8 - Filipina caregiver Aida Marinas; December 9 - Former Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim,

and community leader Anita Lomboy; December 10 - Former Miss rP-USA World Eva reyes; December 11 - Former President of the Philippine Medical Society of Northern California Dr. Camelo Lim roco, and matinee idol Derek ramsey; December 12 - Hillsborough successful businesswoman Guadalupe (Upeng) Abad Sy and Concert Queen of the Philippines Pops Fernandez; December 13 – Former Senator Manny Villar; December 15 - Cupertino jetsetter rema Zafrani Vasa; December 16 – Former Movie Queen Gloria romero, the late rosa del rosario who is the original Queen of Philippine Movies, Health Professionals Chief Accountant Elvie Angeles, and actress Aiko Melendez; December 17 - Former Miss United Nations Interna-

World boxing champ Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao heads December birthday celebrants

Former Miss United Nations and Executive Director of Health Professionals Inc. Anna Satorre will celebrate her birthday on Saturday, December 17.

Former senator and businessman Manny Villar will celebrate his birthday on Tuesday, December 13.

tional Anna Satorre; December 20 - Beauty expert and travel consultant Cristina Caseres, actress Valerie Concepcion, South San Francisco community leader Connie Belleza Gaspar, and actor-singer Carlos Agassi; December 21 - Former

Former Miss RP-USA World and fashion model Marilen Bernardo will celebrate her birthday on Wednesday, December 21.

Health Professionals Inc. Chief Accountant Elvie Angless will celebrate her birthday on Friday, December 16.

Marc Garvida, a hotel banquet executive, will celebrate his birthday on Friday, December 23.

World boxing champion, Philippine Congressman and now senatorial candidate for next year’s election Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao will be celebrating his birthday on Saturday, December 17.

Beauty expert and travel consultant Cristina Caseres of San Bruno will celebrate her birthday on Tuesday, December 20.

Miss rP-USA International and fashion model Marilen Bernardo, former Miss rP-USA World Christine Acha and restaurateur Manny Noguera; December 23 - Karilagan

Dr. Carmelo Lim Roco, former president of the Philippine Medical Society of Northern California, will celebrate his birthday on Sunday, December 11.

Cupertino jetsetter Rema Zafrani Vasa will celebrate her birthday on Thursday, December 15.

restaurant owner Elsie Palencia, and Holiday Inn Hotel banquet executive Marc Garvida; December 24 - Multiawarded actress Lorna Tolentino; December 27 - Gilroy auto mechanic shop owner Dar rabonza; December 28 - Former Mrs. rP-USA Las Vegas and

fashion designer Nina Alberto, and former LBC Treasurer Fely ruiz; December 29 - San ramon businesswoman Flora Enriquez; December 30 - Talented actor Jake Cuenca (who was born in San Jose, CA). Happy to all December celebrants!

Erich Gonzales, Daniel Masunaga relish moments in ‘Be My Lady’ AIrING for more than 10 months now, the top-rating and social media-trending morning series “Be My Lady” has truly resonated with the Filipino audience. The show’s network, ABS-CBN cannot be happier to see the story of a barrio lass and her handsome prince come to an end on November 25 as one of the most successful TV programs of 2016. Since January, viewers tuned in to the love story of Phil (Daniel Matsunaga) and Pinang (Erich Gonzales) toward their journey to forever, buoyed by the fact too that the lead stars are also a couple in real life. Besides the on screen and off screen kilig the pair brings, however, the show further captivated viewers because of its valuable lessons on relationships and family. Indeed, Phil and Pinang’s love proved that culture is not a hindrance to having a long-lasting relationship. The Crisostomo family, meanwhile, exhibited strength and unity during rough times. Pinang, on the other hand, showed that everyone can reach their dreams with perseverance. Gonzales expressed her gratitude to be part of the show during their “Be My Lady’s” press conference on Friday, Nov. 18. According to the actress, besides becoming a family on the show with the cast members, she also credits the program for the

Erich Gonzales and Daniel Matsunaga

“stronger” bond she now has with Matsunaga. “I will miss my co-stars and the rest of the team who have all become my second family. Imagine seeing them everyday for taping—so much more than I see my own family,” Gonzales said. “And because of this show, my relationship with him [Matsunaga] is more solid. For better or for worse, we always have each other, supporting each other,” she added. “I agree with Erich. The whole year we have learned so much about each other. We’re so much stronger than we could be. right now, we are in a stage where we stepped up, not just because of work but because of the time that we spent together—that was the most precious thing,” the

27-year-old Brazilian actor-model explained. Asked if they wish they would be paired up again for their next TV project, Gonzales said yes without hesitation. “of course I still want to work with him because it’s so good to work with the one you love. But we also understand that it’s not always possible we get to work together. Honestly, we’re not really a love team, we were together as a couple before we were given this opportunity to have a show together—so we’re just very grateful. Work is work so if the project is good, why would we refuse. It would be a blessing.” During the last episode of “Be My Lady,” Pinang and Phil finally tied the knot after a long courtship. The couple said that although the show previewed a wedding, they are not pressured to get married too even if they do talk about marriage. “We are not pressured. They saw it, they loved it and they supported us. If it’s the time to get married for us in real life, it’s time. If I think I’m settled and I can afford to raise family, that’s it,” said Matsunaga. “I’m still working hard right now, and we’re focused on our careers. I’m working on my house but I still won’t be able to provide everything. I don’t want to depend on anyone but everything is coming along,” he said.

Angelica Panganiban: 24 years...

From Page SF3 mother of the husband, betrayal is framed in the context of our patriarchal society. Commitment, discipline, and patience If 2015 was all about “Pangako Sa ’Yo,” Angelica dedicated her energy to playing Anne in 2016. Vanessa, who has worked with Angelica before, says she has never seen the actress this “committed and disciplined and patient and persevering.” “She pays attention to details, right down to the continuity of scenes — whether they ought to be night or day. She’s become more open to everyone around her, more attuned to how people feel.” Paulo Avelino, who had never worked with Angelica prior, describes her as “a very brave, excellent actress.” He adds, “She’s someone

who’s not afraid of what people will think of her, of whether she’ll look ugly onscreen.” Angelica’s other leading man Dingdong is “floored by how good she was,” says Vanessa, often texting the screenplay writer his feedback regarding her acting. This is Angelica’s and Dingdong’s third time working with each other, and it’s interesting to note that not once did the two become romantically linked, nor did Angelica ever figure in a fight with Marian rivera, Dingdong’s famously feisty wife. In “The Unmarried Wife,” there is a lot of kissing and some sexually charged scenes, but Angelica wasn’t worried about those. She was more worried about how Marian would react to how intensely she slapped Dingdong in a confrontation scene. “Mas

kinakabahan ako nung nasampal ko si Dingdong,” she says. “Kinabukasan nag-text naman ako. Sabi ko, ‘Yan, umabuso yata ako sa sampal. Sorry ah. Yaan mo last na ’to. Di na ako ulit tatanggap ng project with him,” she says. Marian’s reaction? “Natawa lang naman siya. Nangangamusta lang: ‘Kumusta shooting niyo? okay lang ba kayo?’” Perhaps Marian’s being okay with Dingdong working with Angelica is because the two women are friends. But we’re guessing it also has something to do with Angelica’s professionalism, one she’s honed over the last 24 years. That Dingdong’s real, legal wife can trust Angelica to be his reel, Unmarried Wife tells you that Angelica’s I’m-here-to-worknot-fool-around ethic, like her image, is authentic.

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SF5

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - November 25, 2016

Long lines, happy customers greet 85˚C Bakery Café opening in Daly City

Freshly-baked breads, beautifully-decorated cakes and made-to-order drinks are some of the hallmarks of 85˚ Bakery Cafe.

HAPPY, excited faces and a long line of customers occurred as 85˚C Bakery Café held its grand opening in Serramonte Mall in Daly City last November 4. 85˚C Bakery Café is located where Taco Bell used to be, just beside Macy’s (5-L Serramonte Center, Daly City, CA 94015). Charles Wu, Director of Operations, was present at the grand opening and talked briefly to the Asian Journal before swarms of customers went through the bakery café doors as it opened for business. The 6th store in Northern California – and 24th for the company in the West Coast – Wu said that they had wanted to open in the area

for a long while but it took them a bit of time to find a location. He said they decided on Serramonte Mall as it was a place with good food traffic and there is a huge population within the area. The new location will serve 85˚C Bakery Café customers in the Peninsula, who no longer have to drive far or pay toll fees to cross

85˚ Bakery Cafe has opened in Serramonte Mall in Daly City (where Taco Bell used to be located) near Macy’s. Photo above shows customers waiting patiently as the store held its grand opening last November 3.

Long lines and happy customers greeted the 85˚ Bakery Cafe grand opening celebration in early November.

Bay Area bridges to other 85˚C Bakery Café locations. Wu told the Asian Journal that they have gotten lots of positive feedback from customers in the area, with most telling them, “Finally, you are here!” It was a pleasant surprise to them that many people are familiar with who they are and the self-serve style of buying 85˚C Bakery Café bread products. “We were surprised,” a smiling Charles Wu told the Asian Journal, with regard to customer reactions to their grand opening. “We thought we had to introduce ourselves more… but the customers, when they walked into the store, they knew what to do, where to get the trays, tongs, and bread.” 85˚C Bakery Café offers freshly-baked bread, made-to-order drinks and beautifullydecorated cakes. Customers have complete freedom in picking out their favorite items, and bringing them to the counters for the associates to wrap. According to Wu, some of their best sellers include the Iced Sea Salt Coffee, the Mango Cream Brulee, the Sea Salt Coffee Cake and other numerous product offerings in their bread line which number about 60. Director of Operations Charles Wu, who said that their customers range from teenagers to senior citizens, also mentioned that 85˚C Bakery Café’s success is due to its strict adherence to freshness and quality control. “Every bakery has its strength. But we are really focused on what we are doing well here, which means our products are freshlymade daily… our bread, we make every hour. It’s not like we bake one batch and leave it there… we make our bread throughout the day. That’s what we believe in – fresh product,” he said. Wu continued: “We have a lot of chefs, in-

cluding those trained in Taiwan. Every time we open a new store, we have a chef stay in that store to train our associates. So that’s how we maintain the quality of our bread. If the bread is not to our standard, we don’t take it out… we just throw it away. It is the same thing for our cakes. As for our drinks, we train our associates to follow the recipe. We randomly check the products – we take one out, we taste and if it’s not correct, we do it again. “ Wu said that they couldn’t be happier to open in a community with a thriving population, and which includes many Filipino Americans. “We are really proud and honored to be here in Daly City. There is a huge Filipino American community here, represented not only through our guests, but by our associates. You are a happy community and a welcoming one,” he said, while adding that they had a similar experience when they opened in San Diego, where the Filipino American community welcomed them with open arms. As part of the grand opening celebration, 85˚C Bakery Café gave a Sweets Book ($30 value) to the first 100 guests, which contain 12 free drink vouchers. The grand opening is followed by a month-long series of promotions that include $3 off coupons and free Iced Sea Salt drink vouchers. For more information about the Daly City branch, visit www.85cbakerycafe.com or call the store directly at (650) 992-8585. Hours of operation are as follows: Monday-Thursday 7am to 10pm, Friday-Saturday 7am to 12am, and Sunday 8am to 10pm. 85˚C Bakery Café is a global bakery and beverage retail business publicly traded in Taiwan with over 900 stores worldwide, including the US, Taiwan, China, Australia, and Hong Kong.

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The Asian Jo ur na l SF M A G A Z I NE - N ov em b e r 2 5 , 2 0 1 6

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