Issuu

COMMENTARY

inside look OCT. 25, 2008

Setting The Record Straight On Waimea Valley

HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS

Legislator Blasts Gov. Lingle for Cutting Funds for Needy Keiki

LEGAL NOTES

Extended Trips May Cause Loss Of Green Card

HAWAII’S ONLY WEEKLY FILIPINO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER

THE MAYOR'S RACE IS ON! Hannemann & Kobayashi Discuss Issues Affecting Honolulu

By Albert LANIER

he race for Honolulu Mayor turned from a possible cakewalk to a competitive electoral contest with the late entry of Councilmember Ann Kobayashi who is challenging incumbent Mufi Hannemann for his job. Both Hannemann and Kobayashi outpolled 7 other challengers, including UH engineering professor Panos

Prevedouros, to make it to November 4’s General Election. Both Hannemann and Kobayashi spoke with the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle about their policy proposals, their records and several key issues, most notably the proposed rail transit system which many expect to be decided by ballot issue.

MUFI HANNEMANN: “WE CANNOT AFFORD NOT TO HAVE RAIL”

ANN KOBAYASHI: “RAIL IS NOT THE ANSWER”

"A rail system is the missing ingredient to a better quality of life... If you don't like rail, then give me your alternative."

“We cannot afford a train. Our city is too small. Visually, it would look bad and environmentally, it would be bad for our city.”

Chronicle: In the July 16, 2004 issue of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle, you stated: “If we are going to entertain a new spending proposal, it has to answer three questions: Do we need it? Can we afford it? Can we maintain it? If it doesn’t satisfactorily answer all those questions, we will not proceed.” In your first term as Mayor, would it be fair to say that the spending proposals that have come across your desk have gone through this screening process? Hannemann: If I said it back then, I still mean it now. That’s how I govern. Chronicle: Councilmember Ann Kobayashi, your opponent in the General Election, says that you have broken several promises as mayor. In fact, she cited at least two broken promises. The first major promise was to close Waimanalo Gulch Landfill. Ann says that you are now looking to extend it by 15 years. How do you respond? Hannemann: Nothing could be further from the truth. Once again, she’s confused. I want you to quote that. It was the previous mayor who promised to close the landfill. When I came into office, I said I would see whether or not

Chronicle: You waited until the last minute to file your papers to run for mayor. Why did you wait so long and what made you decide to run for mayor? Kobayashi: If I had stayed in my Council race, I would have run unopposed and would be facing my last term. There are lots of issues I could focus on but the rail issue bothered me because I know that property taxes would have to be raised to support a rail system. The openness and honesty in City government has been slowly disappearing. That’s why I decided to run at the last minute. I talked with friends and family the night before and morning of the filing deadline and thought I just had to do it. I love this city so much and I care about our taxpayers-especially those on fixed income—our elderly. I just have to do this. Chronicle: This isn’t the first time you’ve run for mayor if we’re not mistaken… Kobayashi: Yes, I ran once before in 1994 when there was no incumbent. It was an

(continued on page 4)

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HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

OCTOBER 25, 2008

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

EDITORIAL

Dying in Foreign Lands

nother overseas Filipino worker was executed after he was found guilty of committing a heinous crime in a foreign land. The beheading of Jenifer Viduya in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia last week added to the statistics of OFWs who lost their lives while seeking greener pasture abroad. A Saudi Arabia court had sentenced Viduya to death for killing an Arab who wanted to rape him. Viduya contended before the court that what he did was self defense. But his sentence was affirmed by the Tameez Court (Appellate Court) and the Supreme Judicial Council (Supreme Court) of KSA last April 21 despite appeals filed by his lawyer. Following his execution, Viduya's family has complained over the government's neglect of his case. Had President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo vigorously interceded in his case, his relatives claim he would have been spared from the gallows. While Viduya, just 19 when he was sent to the death chamber, may have told the truth that he killed his attacker in self defense, it was just unfortunate the courts in that Arab country refused to take note of his claims. He died with unfulfilled dreams of someday helping his family live a decent life. For years, we have been hearing tales of the sad flight of OFWs in the foreign lands. Even before the hanging of domestic helper Flor Contemplacion in Singapore for killing her fellow Filipina maid, the government already documented dozens of cases of misfortunes befalling OFWs as they toil in search of bright future for their families that are living in poverty at home. But the sad fact remains that the government seems to have been remiss in its effort to protect them. There were countless cases in which cries for help from abused OFWs just fell on deft ears at the Philippine embassies. Now our OFWs, often hailed by the government as the country's modern heroes, are dying in the lands they hope would help them and their

United Front World markets are on a roller-coaster ride, with stocks plunging once again yesterday. Recent events show that certain factors tend to calm jitters. One is speed in responding to a financial emergency. Another is a massive infusion – or at least a guarantee — of funding for ailing banks. A third factor is a united, coordinated response — between the White House and Congress, in the case of the United States and, across the Atlantic, among the members of the European Union. Today the EU will push for a broader united front, not just in addressing the financial crisis but also in long-term efforts to deal with global warming, promote food and energy security, and make the world a safer place. A two-day summit hosted by Beijing starts today, with 45 countries that account for two-thirds of world trade attempting to forge a united front against the pressing problems besetting the planet. The effort will not be easy. The 27 EU members, the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the countries of South Asia

families survive in these trying times. They infuse billions of dollars into the country to help turn the ailing economy yet the government seems to be neglecting their welfare as they go about their daily routine. Every year, about a million Filipinos leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad, uncertain of what lies ahead while toiling in unfamiliar environments. So it is just a must for the government to look after them by whatever means. (www.philstar.com) together with China, Japan and South Korea have widely disparate levels of economic development, political systems and national needs. Those differences have set back attempts to forge a free trade agreement between Europe and Asia, with most countries finding it easier to negotiate bilaterally. In addressing climate change, developing countries are reluctant to give up cheap but polluting types of fuel such as coal. Even within the EU, some members now want to go slow on their original target of cutting carbon emissions by 20 percent by 2020. But the mere act of gathering together for the 12th summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting can go a long way in fostering unity. Rivals India and Pakistan are attending, and so are warring Cambodia and Thailand. A united front will also be a boon in addressing the most pressing problem that has shot up to the top of the ASEM agenda: the financial crisis. A coordinated response between two regions that account for 60 percent of global production can prevent worst-case scenarios and speed up recovery. (www.philstar.com)

HAWAII-PHILIPPINE NEWS EDITION Charlie Y. SONIDO, M.D. Publisher and Executive Editor

Chona A. MONTESINES-SONIDO Publisher and Managing Editor

Dennis GALOLO Edwin QUINABO Associate Editors

Randall SHIROMA Design Consultant

Columnists Carlota Ader Michelle Alarcon, Esq. Carlo Cadiz, M.D. Sen. Will Espero Grace F. Fong, Ed.D. Mayor Mufi Hannemann Governor Linda Lingle Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. Rosemarie Mendoza J. P. Orias Pacita Saludes Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. Charlie Sonido, M.D. Emmanuel S. Tipon,Esq. Felino S. Tubera Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D.

Contributing Writers

Advertising/Marketing Director

Calvin Alonzo, O.D., Clement Bautista, Linda Dela Cruz, Constante A. Domingo, Danny de Gracia, Amelia Jacang, M.D., Caroline Julian, Albert Lanier, Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D., Glenn Wakai

Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Account Executives

Carlota Ader J. P. Orias

Creative Designer

Junggoi Peralta

Big Island Distributor

Philippine Correspondent

Elmer Acasio Ditas Udani

Guil Franco Photographer

Maui Distributor

Tim Llena

Cecile Piros

Administrative Assistant

Molokai Distributor

Shalimar Pagulayan

Maria Watanabe

The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is published weekly by the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. It is mailed directly to subscribers and distributed at various outlets around Oahu and the neighbor islands. Editorial and advertising deadlines are three weeks prior to publication date. Subscriptions are available at $75 per year for Oahu and the neighbor islands, continental U.S. $85, foreign country $95. Copyright 2007. The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. is located at 94-356 Waipahu Depot, Waipahu, HI 96797. Telephone: (808) 678-8930. Facsimile: (808) 678-1829. E-mail: filipinochronicle@gmail.com. Opinions expressed by the columnists and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle management. Reproduction of the contents in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from the management. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

4 (cont. from page 1; Hannemann ...)

HEADLINE

NEWS (CONT.)

OCTOBER 25, 2008

we could follow through on the promise made by the previous mayor. Ann voted in December 2004 to extend the landfill for 15 years—not two years as she claims. You can check the record. That’s point number one. Number two, we searched high and low for an alternative landfill site because I think it’s unfair to have the landfill situated in one part of the island. We found out several things during our search. First of all, the most feasible site, if we were to close Waimanalo Gulch, is in Nanakuli which is too close to homes and residences. Secondly, it would take 6-7 years to identify and build a new landfill. Thirdly, it would cost millions of dollars. So, the City Council, which included Ann Kobayashi, voted in 2006 to close the landfill. They wanted to close it but didn’t offer an alternative site. So I vetoed that measure. Guess what Ann Kobayashi did? She voted to sustain my veto. In other words, she voted to keep the landfill open. She has a record of inconsistencies on this issue, while I have been very clear from the beginning. So, what have we done? Number one, we’ve insisted on a new management team as well as new management practices at the landfill through our operator, Waste

Management. Secondly, we’ve addressed all the prior violations and had Waste Management pay for three violations. Thirdly, we’ve instituted a community benefits program that heretofore was never (previously) given to the Leeward coast community. So, for two years and entering its third year, the community will receive a $2 million community benefits package which will enable them to allocate the funds to select social service providers and non-profit groups that help with different programs and activities on the Leeward coast, as well as additional CIP funds to repair their parks and their roads. The key is that the community gets to decide where the money goes. It’s not a directive from the mayor or the City Council. So, we are in a lot better shape with this landfill than before. I think it’s absurd that Ann Kobayashi continues to insist that I made a promise and that I haven’t kept. I said very clearly when I came into office that we would see whether we could keep the promises that Jeremy Harris made and reneged on. The Council also made sure that that landfill was going to be extended in their vote Dec 2004 when Ann Kobayashi voted to keep it open another 15 years. Chronicle: The second prom-

ise that Councilmember Kobayashi says you broke was in regard to the hiring of a Filipino director. She says you promised the Filipino community that you would hire a Filipino to serve as a director in one of the City’s departments. Hannemann: When Ann Kobayashi says these things, you should ask where is it written. Let me tell you what I said. I said I would try to put together a cabinet that was reflective of the face of Oahu—that we would have people from every ethnic group. And that I wouldn’t gauge them based on their political affiliation, whether they voted for me or whether they have government experience. I put together a blue ribbon committee to help select these candidates. So, that’s exactly what I have done. I’ll give you a name—Bennette Evangelista. I offered her a job but at that time she felt she needed to be in the private sector. Beyond that, my cabinet has some of the best individuals who are working with me every day and making a difference. My executive assistant is Joyce Mina Oliveira, who is an outstanding civil servant. We have Baby Hufana-Ablan who is the number 2 person at the Department of Emergency Services. We have several boards and commissions filled with Filipino members, including James Pacopac on

the Board of Parks and Recreation and Greg Hammer on the Liquor Commission. I could go on and on. But let me respond this way, you should ask Ann Kobayashi this question: ‘Throughout your term on the City Council, have you hired a Filipino staff member?’ Ask her that because she can’t throw darts at someone else without looking at herself first. Chronicle: In other words, practice what you preach? Hannemann: Yes, in other words, practice what you preach. Ask her that question. She’s been on the Council for six years. I think you’ll find the answer to be a resounding no—she’s never hired a Filipino to be on her staff. Chronicle: How would you characterize your opponent? Hannemann: She supported me in 2004 and at that time she was very much against Duke Bainum. Now, in 2008, she’s against me and very much for Duke Bainum. Her logic defies explanation at times but I think byand-large that when we worked together on the City Council, good things happened. When she was Budget chair, she helped the City save some money. She bought into the case I made that we needed to raise sewer fees, not once but twice, so we could fix our aging sewer and infrastructure system.

When she cooperates and sees the big picture, I think there has been a lot of good that benefits the City. But she’s chosen to take this adversarial role and I think it’s unfortunate because we were making good progress for all the people of Honolulu when she was working with the administration instead of fighting against us. Chronicle: What initiatives will you be putting forward if you are elected to a second term? Hannemann: Now is the time that we need strong, experienced leadership because the number one issue currently is the economy. My experience has been more than just being on the legislative side. I also have experience in the private sector as a former vice president of C. Brewer & Company, one of Hawaii’s largest agra businesses. I have management experience as the former director of the State Department of Economic Development and Tourism. I have a history of dealing with the economy, of making things happen and bringing people together to save jobs and to create jobs. This not the time for on-the-job training—to bring in someone with no executive experience at the top of any organization. At the state level, I helped to save the Pro Bowl which has brought millions of dol-

(cont. from page 1; Kobayashi....)

city is property taxes. We need to provide these essential services, but we don’t want to increase property taxes because it would affect so many people, especially those on fixed incomes. Chronicle: So if you don’t raise property taxes, how can you generate revenues for the city? Kobayashi: One way of cutting costs is to streamline city operations. After serving for four years as Budget Committee chair, I can see areas within the city that could be run more efficiently. Chronicle: In a recent issue of Honolulu Weekly, it was reported that you had “a single issue campaign” in opposition to rail. Do you feel this a fair or unfair characterization of your campaign for Mayor? Kobayashi: Definitely unfair. I have alternatives to other city issues like our landfill and sewers. I’ve been saying all along that we need to work on our wastewater treatment facilities. Chronicle: I wanted to mention what your opponent Mufi Hannemann said about you in the Star Bulletin on September 9. His characterization of you was: “Her career has been a series of flip-flops. First, she was a Republican then she became a Democrat. She loved me in 2004 and campaigned against Duke (Bainum), today she loves Duke and doesn't like me.” True or false? Kobayashi: Well, I was once a Republican. The year I switch to Democrats was a non-election year. That same year, five female

Republican Party to the Democratic Party because we were because we were being targeted by mainstream Republicans who had become very conservative, while the five of us were more moderate. As for Mufi, I campaigned for him in 2004. I believed his promises but his promises did not come true, so that’s why this year, I’m running against him. I don't know about loving Duke Bainum. I mean, we were never that close—I’ve never been close to him. But I certainly won’t campaign for Mufi again because he made a lot of promises and those promises never materialized. Chronicle: What were the promises that Mayor Hannemann didn't keep in his first term in office? Kobayashi: Well, one of them was to keep government open and honest. Secondly, he has pushed rail through to the point where a lot of us on the Council never had a chance to vote on that issue. We never voted for a train and yet he’s moving forward on it. He promised the Filipino community that there would be a Filipino director but out of 200,000 Filipinos on Oahu he couldn't find a single one to serve as director. Chronicle: A director of what per se? Kobayashi: A director of any City department. He promised the Waianae community that we would close their landfill but instead they’re trying to extend it for another 15 years. He promised to solve the problems of wastewater treatment and now he’s fighting the

EPA and has spent millions of dollars on attorney’s fees. One of the basic things in government is an openness with the budget process. I believe in having a very open process and not wasting money. So during the first two years he was in office, I still tried to work with him and support him but the last two years, I couldn’t vote for his budgets. Chronicle: So, it seems you've been disillusioned by Mayor Hannemann. Kobayashi: I don't know if disillusioned is the right word… Chronicle: You did mention you believed in his promises and that you believed in what he had said so that comes close. Kobayashi: Yes but then his promises were not kept. I cannot support someone who breaks promises. That’s why I don't make promises I can’t keep. Chronicle: I noticed in a profile that you don't use the term “I” in addressing a lot of issues. You say “the mayor” can do something about wastewater management or “the mayor” should do something about improving the sewers. You don't use "I" in terms for what the mayor should or shouldn't do or what the next mayor should or shouldn't do. Is this because you don’t want to make promises you can’t keep? Kobayashi: Well, I'm not mayor yet so I can’t say “I” will do this. I’m not presumptuous. I’m not going to say victory is inevitable, as Mufi has said. So I’m just working from a Councilmember’s point of

view. I’m still a Councilmember until the end of the year. So that’s why I say “we” because I think the Council should work as a team. Chronicle: I mentioned that because most candidates say “I will have a open budget process” or “I will fight to get the rail project off the ground.” I mentioned that because you haven’t placed yourself in a position to say “I” or limited yourself to certain promises or obligations that I take it you won't be able to keep. Kobayashi: No, it’s not that at all. I’m into working as a team. I always partner with people. I can’t do some things by myself. The Council has always worked together to approve certain items. Just as City department heads work together, I believe in working within groups. All of my life, I have been in partnerships and working with others because I know that I can’t accomplish things alone. Chronicle: Do you think that you’re more of a team player compared to your opponent? Kobayashi: Well, most people have said that that. I think it’s a major difference. I’ll be there for four years, while he has not committed to being there for four years. Chronicle: Why is that important? Kobayashi: I think it's important because at this stage we’re going to be starting the rail project and resolving our landfill problem. How can you walk into office, promise people that you’re going to solve problems but then leave after

open seat so I thought I would try for it. I had been in the Legislature for 14 years and didn’t have as much knowledge of city government. After serving on the City Council for six years, I know more now about city issues. But now, I’m running against an incumbent who has $3 million dollars. Chronicle: Why do you think you lost that race in 1994? Besides the fact you didn't know much about municipal issues. Kobayashi: I didn’t have a lot of money. I was running against Jeremy Harris who was acting mayor and who had been managing director, and Arnold Morgado who had been on the Council for many years. Both of them knew they key issues that the city faced. I had been only in state government and I thought that government was government. Chronicle: You thought government was government? Kobayashi: I was unaware that the city operates a little differently and that city issues are much more day-to-day. The State government deals with prisons, schools and very large policy issues. The city deals with sewers, trash pick-up, the landfill, transportation and parks. It involves a whole different set of issues. Chronicle: So basically, city issues affect people where they live and ultimately how they spend their money? Kobayashi: Exactly. The largest source of revenue for the

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HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION OCTOBER 25, 2008

COMMENTARY

Setting the Record Straight on Waimea Valley by Romy M. CACHOLA Honolulu City Councilmember District VII or the past few weeks, many of us have heard radio, TV and print media ads discrediting Councilmember Ann Kobayashi’s involvement in the settlement case involving Waimea Valley. Contrary to what was said, Ann helped to save Waimea Valley from the mayor’s strong advocacy to develop the property. I can speak with a great deal of certainty on this matter, since I was authorized in May 2004 by the Council chair (see attached) to negotiate settlement on behalf of the Council. Prior to my appointment, the Council adopted Resolution 01-160, which I introduced, that urged the City to give OHA an opportunity to purchase the property. The intent of this resolution was to save taxpayers’ money. For the record, I worked closely with Councilmember Kobayashi, who was then Budget Committee chair, on budgetary and financial implications related to the negotiations. Her expertise was invaluable in our meetings with OHA trustees. At that time, OHA was willing to pay $6 million for Waimea Valley.

Bill McCorriston’s law firm took over legal representation of the case in November 2004 and in November 2005 proposed a settlement for the City to keep approximately 300 acres of land and for the remaining 1,500 acres to be returned to owner Attractions Hawaii. The property would be subdivided into homes and developed into an ecological camp for tourists—a move that was supported by the mayor but opposed

by many, including Native Hawaiian and environmental groups. At a November 21, 2005 hearing for preliminary approval of the deal, Counc i l m e m b e r Kobayashi was among four councilmembers who voted against the proposal. At the December 7, 2005 Council meeting, she again consistently voted against the deal to split and develop the property. With other councilmember’s joining Ann’s opposition, the mayor denounced the Council’s 9-0 vote and reinitiated settlement talks with Attractions Hawaii. Attorney McCorriston stated that he wanted to continue negotiations but only with the mayor’s involvement and that he no longer had confidence in the Council. From that point, I was left out of the negotiations as the Council’s representative.

In the end, a settlement was reached, but at taxpayers’ expense. OHA, which was willing to pay up to $6 million for Waimea, paid only $2.9 million. The City paid the largest amount ($5.1 million), received only half of the easement shared with the State, which paid $1.6 million. The Council hastily approved the settlement in a strange, but true twist of events at the Council’s March 15, 2006 meeting, where the discussion and final vote on Waimea Valley took all of two minutes—as Councilmembers Kobayashi, Rod Tam and myself were entering the chambers. As it turned out, the City’s negotiators, instead of protecting

taxpayers’ money, ended up giving away the store. I had hoped that the City would have gotten back a portion of the $5.1 million it paid for the easement only, which was more than what OHA paid for ownership and title to the entire valley. In the end, OHA’s share was $3.1 million less than what they were originally willing to pay. As the representative appointed by the Council to negotiate matters relating to Waimea Valley, I would like to thank Councilmember Kobayashi for her contributions to the negotiations. She deserves credit for helping to preserve Waimea Valley and for her consistent opposition to commercial development on the property.

6 (cont. from page 4; Hannemann ...)

lars into our economy. At the mayoral level, I helped save 4,000 jobs at Pearl Harbor. I was instrumental in luring Trump Tower to Waikiki. I will be announcing, maybe by the time this interview is published, that Disney is building a resort at Ko Olina. I was one of the individuals who helped clear the way for them to come here. Whether it’s money that we’re paying to fix our roads, sewers or our wastewater system or breaking ground on a fixed rail system, the year 2009 will be very critical for the economy. Rail is expected to create 4,700 construction jobs immediately and 11,000 total jobs over the course of the eight year construction period. It’s real money coming into the economy, including $900 million of federal government dollars as a result of U.S. Congressman Jim Oberstar’s strong endorsement of our rail

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

HEADLINE project. He called it ‘One of the best transit systems in America’ and worthy of $900 million in federal funds. You’re going to see my administration focus more on the economy. We’re ready for it because we’ve been preparing for it. Chronicle: Just to make it clear, even though people already know your position, what is your stance on rail? Hannemann: Unlike my opponent whose position is fuzzy and seems to be a moving target from time to time, I have been very clear from the beginning. I support a fixed guideway system. I support the technology that was chosen by a panel of experts who voted 4 to 1 for a steel wheel on steel rail system. A steel-on-steel transit system is what the feds have funded 90 percent of the time since 1992. This technology is dependable and reliable. The life cycle cost is much lower than the

NEWS (CONT.)

OCTOBER 25, 2008

other technologies that were proposed. I think steel-on-steel is the way we should go. We need a rail system that will be the centerpiece of a multimodal transportation system that includes The Bus, The Boat and bike paths. Chronicle: Using the language in your 2004 campaign, the opponents of rail argue that we don’t “need” a rail system and that it would be “nice to have” but unnecessary on an island with 900,000 residents. They say Oahu is too small and rail too expensive. How would you convince voters that we need rail? Hannemann: I’ll say this. A rail system is the missing ingredient to a better quality of life. We spend too much time in traffic, especially those of us who live on the west side of Oahu. Number two, if you don’t like rail, then give me an alternative. The problem with those who are against rail is that their alternatives cannot be funded by federal dollars or by the State GET tax. They are unrealistic and would force us to go back to square one. That’s the problem I have with those who do not want rail. I say we cannot afford NOT to have rail. Take, for instance, the HOT lane proposal…

Chronicle: The High Occupancy Toll lanes that have been put forward by rail opponents? Hannemann: Yes. You’d have to pay a toll to use HOT lanes. They have never been quite up front with the fact that you have to pay anywhere from $8 to $12 during peak hours. That’s the amount motorists pay in Orange County, California. Their toll is $10 going in and $10 going out during peak traffic. Secondly, HOT lanes do not provide a convenient way for people to get into the Downtown corridor. When there are 15,000 to 20,000 cars coming off the HOT lanes and merging into the Downtown corridor, you’re going to have massive traffic gridlock. Thirdly, it does nothing for the environment and lastly, no one has rushed forward to fund the HOT lanes. HOT lanes advocate Panos Prevedoros tried to get the Legislature to change its mind about funding HOT lanes but he didn’t get a very warm reception. My position is this: if some government entity or private developer would like to build a HOT lane, then fine. It can complement a rail system but cannot replace it. Also, the money that has been set aside for fixed rail, including federal

dollars, cannot be used to build HOT lane. Chronicle: Lastly, why should Filipino voters re-elect you as mayor? Hannemann: First of all, of the two candidates running for mayor, I have been to the Philippines. That makes a world of difference. How can you say that you're going to represent the Filipino community when you haven’t traveled to the Philippines? I’ve been adopted by at least three provinces or towns in the Philippines—Madoc, Vigan and Bacara. I also have a proven track record of working with Filipinos in Hawaii and the Philippines. That’s very important to the Filipino community. They want to know where your heart is and my heart has always been clearly with the Filipino community. I grew up in Kalihi with Filipinos neighbors. I lived on the Big Island with Filipinos. I surrounded myself with Filipinos at City Hall and have had a close working relationship with organizations such as the Filipino Chamber of Commerce. So I humbly ask for their support so I can continue to work on initiatives that will benefit not only Filipinos but everyone on Oahu.

(cont. from page 4; Kobayashi....)

biggest issue of the campaign. Just so that people are very clear about where you stand—what is your position on the issue of rail? Kobayashi: Well, we have a big traffic problem. There’s no argument there. I have always supported a form of mass transit but

against a train going through our city. We cannot afford a train. Our city is too small to afford a train. Visually, it would be look bad. Environmentally, it would be bad for our city. So, I have always been against a train.

two years and also leave behind all the bills for someone else to pay? I can’t do that to people and I cannot ask them to commit to voting for me if I cannot commit to them. Chronicle: So, let's get to the

CHRONICLE PULSE

Who Are You Voting for Mayor and Why? by Carlota HUFANA-ADER 1. I believe Mufi Hanneman is the best candidate. He has the experience and has proven this; so why will I vote for another one. I strongly believe that he will continue to do his best. — Dolly Ortal, Salt Lake 2.

ANN KOBAYASHI is the right person. She has the qualities of a good leader. She's compassionate, honest and easy to talk to and she cares for the people's welfare. — Florence Verdadero, Waipahu

3. Mufi Hanneman did a lot as a Mayor. He is sensitive to the people's need. — Tony Aquino, Pearl City 4. We need a change in the way we do business in the City and County of Honolulu. I think a vote for ANN KOBAYASHI will bring an honest change we all need for the better. — Clemente Abalos, Kalihi 5. Mufi Hanneman has done so much for the City and County of Honolulu. We should

continue his leadership so he can finish whatever he had started for the people of Hawaii. — David Abrigo, Honolulu 6. We have a lot of things we need to improve today. Our economy is down and costs of living and doing business in Hawaii are just unbelievable. We need someone we can trust. I know ANN KOBAYASHI for 20 years. She is honest, responsible, and I know she can deliver what had been promised to us. — Orlando Soriano, Waipahu 7. Mufi Hanneman is the better choice. He is doing a good job as Mayor and has proven himself as the better person for this job. — Abe Mariano, Honolulu 8. I support ANN KOBAYASHI. She is fair and will not treat Filipinos as second class citizens. She values family so much like we do. I know she can do much more if elected Mayor. — Nestor Muyot, Wahiawa

OCTOBER 25, 2008

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

FEATURE

SEXUALITY AND ETHNICITY: Issues from a Philippine Perspective (Part 2) By Lilia Quindoza Santiago ilipinos today wherever they may be, face inescapable ethnic realities. The archipelagic geography of the country led to the formation of over a hundred ethnic communities whose social and cultural development differ from each other. There are one thousand one hundred islands and nearly a thousand of these islands are peopled by over 87 million who speak some one hundred sixty one (161) languages. Ten of these languages have over a million native speakers. These ten languages which all belong to the same Austronesian family but are mutually unintelligible to each other are : Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilokano, Pangasinan, Kapampangan, Bikolano, Waray, Hiligaynon, Maranao and Tausug. The colonialists, both Spanish and American attempted to integrate these diverse, isolated and disparate communities by subjecting the peoples of the islands to their respective empires. But colonial projects have failed miserably because of the imposition of various hegemonies. Catholicism, the main tool of the Spanish conquista has created a religious oligarchy that is deeply feudal and patriarchal in values. American inspired public education in the early 1900s which used English as medium of instruction has produced a globe trotting, jet setting intellectual class, computer savvy conos and, technological geniuses who generally have not contributed much to national progress. The imposition of a national language based on Tagalog, has created ethnic chaos and restlessness and threatens to eliminate all other ethnic languages, ten of which as I said, have over a million native speakers. The constitutional mandate of a Tagalog based Filipino national language has led to “Tagalogization” of the islands, more than Filipinization and linguists have not really come up with hard, rigorous answers on how linguistic pluralism and nationalism can be blended without a virtual ethnic cleansing of all the other languages of the Philippines. Finally, the decades long struggles against militarism and dictatorship, the “coup d’etat” militarist mindset has produced warring factions of the leftist, rightist, fundamentalist, terrorist lost commands . The different ethno-linguistic groups are culturally diverse in terms of languages and literatures, tastes in food, clothing, shelter, landscape and architecture, forms of worship even as they share segments of historical and political

experiences. I do not believe that these ethnic differences at once constitute disadvantage. I do not subscribe to the idea that there is a corrosive regionalism in the Philippines because of different ethnicities. Differences per se are no impediments to progress. Having differences becomes a problem only when exploitative practices occur, when differences are manipulated to promote unjust power relations as what has happened for centuries now. So I believe, a more serious gaze, a harder look at the deep structures of Philippine society is necessary, Because in reality, there could be over-arching structures of class, race, gender and ethnicity that need to dismantled.. I do not aspire to do an overhaul with this article, but, this can be a modest beginning, as we look into the dynamics of ethno-community rites and social rituals. Rite, as many antholopoligists argue, constitute, construe and convene society. Which is why there are rites of passage. In rite and rituals, the community is assembled to share experiences, map out visions, delineate problems, offer solutions through discussion, discourse or simple socialization. Anthropologists historians and sociologists call our attention today to our syncretic rites , syncretic meaning the melding or welding of ethnic traditions with western colonial rites mostly Catholic oriented. Because of these rites, it is said we have re-invented Catholicism and vested it with a distinctively Filipino character. Syncretism is manifest in religious rituals and can be illustrated by the ati-atihan in Kalibo, Aklan, the Santacrusan in various parts of the archipelago, and the feast of the Nazareno in Quiapo. There are plenty of other similar rituals all over the archipelago, but let me just focus discussion on the Ati-atihan, the Santacrusan and and the feast of the Nazareno in Quiapo. The ati-atihan predated Spanish colonialism and is a 13th century form of Dionysiac festivity where drinking, chanting, dancing in the streets are done to the beat of of drums. When the Catholic church accepted the Atis into its fold, the Ati-atihan was transformed into a Catholic ritual and became festivity in honor the birth of Jesus Christ, or the Santo Nino. Held for two weeks from second Sunday of January in Kalibo, Aklan, the last three days of celebration turn wild as people adorn themselves in colorful attires, paint themselves in the face, they use mud oftentimes and splash these over their bodies, then march through the streets with the rhythmic beating of drums

and shouting, Hala Bira, Puwera Pasma! (Roughly translated, go, go punch ( or dig), save us from overwork or fatigue!) The Ati-atihan they say, began when Datus from Borneo fled their islands and landed in Panay. ( Many historians think this “Bornean” landing story is spurious but the legend perseveres anyway). There, they bought land from the Atis who were the aboriginal inhabitants of Panay. The festivity celebrates the Ati’s coming down from the mountains to re-unite with those who bought their lands and celebrate their bountiful harvest. The Akeanon’s (those who have settled in the land) meet the Ati and in order to be hospitable, the Akeanon’s (host people) paint themselves black in union with the Ati. The ati-atihan is replicated now in almost every town fiesta in the Philippines. The rite serves as feast opener to jumpstart the celebrations and dancing in the streets as the people flock to the town center to drink, dance and be merry. Why does the Ati-atihan become wild in the last three days after novenas and prayers? Why did the friars choose to adopt the Ati-atihan to become the rite in celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ? There can be as many explanations as possible but when traced to their ethnic roots, the Atiatihan is manifest a celebration of fertility and virility. That it celebrates bountiful harvest is significant. The men shout “Hala Bira” to release libidinal energy when they shout as they beat drums and sometimes take off clothes in the streets and dance almost naked. The Ati-atihan as fertility rite can be related to the sayaw sa Obando. Celebrated on May 17, 18, 19 as feasts of San Pascual Baylon, Santa Clara and Birhen ng Salambao (Virgen of the Salambao)( people sing, dance, drink beat drums until the procession finally enters the church where masses continue the dancing and the singing in front of the altar. The religious sing the religious song, which goes, this way: “Santa Clarang Pinung-pino/anak po kami’y bigyan n’yo/, pagdating po sa Obando/ ipagsasayaw ng pandango. (O Virtuous Santa Clara,

Please give us a child/ When we reach Obando/ We will dance the pandango). But through the years, another song, this time a sacrilegious one has seeped into the merriment and added color and laughter in the streets among devotees. This “sacrilegious song” goes thus: Santa Clarang Pinung-pino/, kami po sana’y bigyan n’yo/ ng asawang labintatlo/, sa golpe’y walang reklamo! (O virtuous Santa Clara, please grant us/ 13 spouses/who will not complain when battered). People in the town assert that the sayaw, like the Ati-atihan, predated Spanish colonization. The town used to be called Catanghalan but was renamed Obando, after a Spanish Governor General. When the friars could not get rid of the sayaw (at one time, the celebration was banned from church because of the rowdiness of the crowd ) they had to adopt it as part of church ritual and so had to name three patron saints for three-days of merrymaking. San Pascual Baylon is patron of those seeking spouses or partners, Santa Clara is the patron of women who want children and the Virgin of Salambao is patron for those seek-

ing wealth or prosperity. Thus, the famous sayaw is what Rizal used in his novel Noli Me Tangere to satirize the colonial hypocrisy and greed. In the novel, the people were made to believe that Dona Pia Alba, after not having a child with Capitan Tiago, finally got one, Maria Clara when she danced and prayed for a child from Santa Clara in Obando. This was of course only legend as Dona Pia Alba was having an affair with Padre Damaso, the parish priest who is the real father of Maria Clara. The wildness of the celebrations therefore can only be explained from their ethno-sexual roots. These festivities were the spaces for the expression of various forms of desire, sexual, physical and emotional. These festivities signal initiation into manhood or womanhood. Young men and women are introduced into the sexual world through these rites, thus the flirting, sexual seduction, the release of libidinal energy. Among ethnic Filipinos therefore, these ethno-sexual rites are deemed necessary for the propagation of of the angkan (Tagalog for clan) or the puli ( Ilokano for race) and the perpetuation of life in and of the community. To forego these rites would mean an end to racial production and a surrender to the colonial master, so, the syncretic process begins with native and colonial master negotiating the terms for the continuation of the rites .This is where intersections/interjections of sexuality with ethnicity happen and become very important. (Next article, on the Santacrusan and the Feast of the Nazareno and the Filipino women and conclusion)

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 8

SOCIETY

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OCTOBER 25, 2008

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

OCTOBER 25, 2008

PHILIPPINE NEWS

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2008

Legislator Blasts Filipino Community Bids Fond Gov. Lingle for Cutting Farewell to Consul Macaisa Funds For Needy Keiki DOZENS ATTENDED a recent

REP. JOHN MIZUNO sharply

who have less means to healthcriticized Gov. Linda care, such as our Lingle after the needy and low inState Department of come children,” Human Services says Rep. Mizuno. announced it would "I believe we're witno longer fund nessing the current healthcare for administration's needy children, deneglect and as a spite legislation result, thousands passed in 2007 of Hawaii's children Rep. John Mizuno which became law. and families will Rep. Mizuno co-authored suffer." HB1008 and advocated for its pasRep. Mizuno said that he will sage. The bill provides universal work on a measure during the healthcare to all of Hawaii’s keiki. 2009 legislative session that would “There are no throw away provide access to healthcare for people in our society, only people Hawaii’s residents.

farewell party for Consul Arlene Macaisa who was re-assigned back to the Philippines last month. Consul Macaisa, who was in charge of Economics, Trade and Cultural Affairs, completed her six-year term in Hawaii which began in 2002. Arlene fondly recalls getting the biggest surprise of her life when she received the news of her first assignment—Honolulu, Hawaii. She states “it can’t get any better than Hawaii.” PCCCH Chair Jean Jeremiah with Consul Arlene Macaisa and husband Allan In attendance to wish her a (left) and representatives from various organizations. fond farewell were several representatives from various organiza- Angel Dytioco from the Bulacan Rep. Ching during her first trip to tions: Toy Arre from the FilCom Circle, Maggie Domingo from the the Philippines as part of the AmCenter, Carlota Ader from OFCC, Philippine Cultural Foundation of bassador Tour last July. “Personally, I will miss Arlene Don Alvarez from UFCH, Alma Hawaii, Rossi Patton from the Paand all the late nights and weekPhocas from UPAA, Jun Col- suquinos and many more. Each organization presented ends working together with her menares from COVO, Vergel Adonis past president of the Filipino Consul Macaisa with a Plaque of on several Filipino community Chamber, Dr. Lindy Aquino from Appreciation and farewell gifts for projects. It was a pleasure workthe Center for Philippine Studies, her tireless efforts in the many ing with her,” says Jean JereDrs. Ruth Mabanglo and Teresita projects that benefited Hawaii’s miah, chair of the Philippine Ramos of the Filipino and Philip- Filipinos. State Rep. Corinne Celebrations Coordinating Compine Literature Program, Baybee Ching was on-hand to present a mittee of Hawaii. Jeremiah orConsul Macaisa’s Hufana-Ablan who represented Certificate of Appreciation. Con- ganized Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, sul Macaisa personally escorted farewell.

Kumu Kahua Theatre to Host New Play ‘Rolling the Rs’ “ROLLING THE R’S” BY R.Z. LINMARK will play at Kumu Kahua Theatre from October 30-November 30, 2008. The play centers around Edgar Ramirez, a Kalihi teen who looks like “a Filipino John Travolta.” He’s gay but isn’t bothered by his schoolmates’ taunts. Classmate Nelson Ariola insists that Edgar is an American because he was born in Hawaii and doesn’t speak Tagalog or Ilocano. Rolling the Rs is a play set in the disco years of the 1970s when high school students hung posters of Scott Baio, Shaun Cassidy and Leif Garrett on their bedroom walls, listened to Peaches and Herb, read Sixteen and Teen Beat magazines, and struggled with their identities as defined by ethnicity, nationality and sexual orientation. Edgar and his friends Katrina and Vicente exchange words with their classmates, dance, sing and experiment with sex in a free-floating, surrealistic story punctuated by the disciplinary voice of schoolteacher Mrs. Takemoto and the judgmental gossip of Philippine-born and raised friends Mrs. Kayabyab and Mrs. Arayat. The cast includes M.J. Gonzalvo, Kathy Hunter, Jason Kanda, Tyler Tanabe, JaedeeKae Vergara , Joy Lacanienta, Malia Lagaso,

(L-R) Jason Kanda, Maila P. Roncero, and M.J. Gonzalvo recall "Charlie's Angels" in Rolling the R's. Maila P. Roncero and Christopher TakemotoGentile. Playwright R. Zamora Linmark is the author of the best-selling novel “Rolling The R’s.” Linmark is a recipient of numerous grants and awards, including two Fulbright fellowships, a National Endowment for the Arts in Creative Writing, and most recently a residency at the Edward Albee Foundation. He lives in Manila. Please visit www.KumuKahua.org or call 536-4441 for more information or to buy tickets online.

OCTOBER 25, 2008

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

PHILIPPINE NEWS

Stocks Hit 3-Year Low by Des FERRIOLS / Friday, October 24 2008 THE STOCK MARKET PLUNGED yesterday, hitting a three-year low amid fears of a global recession. The Philippine Stock Exchange 30company composite index lost 97.09 points to 1,995.92 — the first time the main barometer has fallen below 2,000 points since Oct. 28, 2005, when the index finished at 1,960.22. The all shares index dropped 4.2 percent to 1,284.16 points with decliners swamping advancers 117 to three. Thirteen issues were unchanged from the day-earlier levels. Turnover reached 1.85 billion shares worth P3.20 billion. At the foreign exchange market, the peso retreated to its lowest level against the dollar since January 2007 as investors dumped local stocks amid growing fears of a severe global economic down turn. The peso opened the day’s trade at 48.80 to the dollar but pressure brought it down to as low as 49 during intraday trading, the lowest in 21 months. By the end of the session, dollar-selling by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) brought the exchange rate back up to 48.790 but this level is not expected to hold as the dollar continued to rise and local stock prices plunged. The recent selloff at the stock market took even more foreign portfolio investments out of the market. This steady outflow showed up in the weekly monitor of the BSP where net outflow of foreign portfolio investments was recorded at $25.24 million last week alone. BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guini-

gundo said, however, that it is only a matter of time before the peso would ultimately stabilize. Guinigundo said remittances are growing by 18 percent against the assumed growth rate of 10 percent so this should provide some cushion especially during the last months of the year. “Remittances are seasonally high in the last quarter of the year,” he said. “We hope that the peso will receive support from the stronger inflows from remittances. It’s something that is seasonally expected.“

RECESSION JITTERS News that major economies are slipping into recession and major stock markets plunging are weighing on investors, analysts said. “This is a herd moving out, we don’t have any control over it,” James Lago of PCCI Securities Brokers said. “Valuation-wise, we haven’t seen these levels since 1998,” Lago added. “The market is very emotional right now. We’re seeing irrational selling,” said Jose Vistan of AB Capital Securities. Ayala Land plunged 7.8 percent to P5.90 while Megaworld, dropped nine percent to 81 centavos and Filinvest Land sank 6.7 percent to 42 centavos. Philippine Long Distance Telephone was off 4.8 percent to P2,185. San Miguel A fell 5.4 percent to P43.50 while its B shares were down 6.4 percent to P44. Traders said technical data now indicate strong support for the index at 1,800 points, suggesting further weakness unless Wall Street recovers. (www.philstar.com)

Palace Hands Off on Moscow Probe by Paolo ROMERO / Friday, October 24 2008 MALACAÑANG DISTANCED ITSELF from the ongoing Senate probe on the Philippine National Police (PNP) scandal in Russia involving retired police comptroller Director Eliseo de la Paz and his wife Maria Fe, who were caught carrying undeclared cash worth 105,000 euros, or P6.9-million, at the departure area of a Moscow airport last Oct. 11 after they attended an Interpol conference. Press Secretary Jesus Dureza and Deputy Presidential Spokesman Anthony Golez, in separate statements, said the leadership of the PNP and the Department of the Interior and Local Government are already conducting their own investigations into the incident. “Let’s refer the matter to the concerned agencies conducting investigation,” Dureza said, adding that Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno has already committed to cooperate fully with the Senate. De la Paz was a member of the 8-man PNP delegation to the 77th Interpol General Assembly, which was held from Oct. 7 to 10 in St. Petersburg (formerly Leningrad). “We would like to look deep into this issue, cooperate and participate in any investigation that will be called on this particular issue,” he said.

He also noted the investigations are conducted publicly and nothing could be hidden by any erring official. The House committee on public order and safety canceled today’s scheduled investigation of the PNP scandal in Moscow for “lack of jurisdiction.” “We don’t have jurisdiction over the resolution (House Resolution 843) because it has yet to be referred by the House committee on rules to the plenary and thereafter to my committee,” said committee chairman Rep. Rodolfo Antonino. If the party-list congressmen who sponsored the resolution really wanted to waive the jurisdiction issue without any referral, he pointed out that the required number of 48 votes needed in the panel would not be achieved anyway. “If we convene, I don’t think we can get the majority vote to assume jurisdiction,” Antonino pointed out, noting that most of the 240 congressmen are now on vacation either in their districts or abroad because of the month-long break, which will end on Nov. 10. But as far as party-list Rep. Teddy Casiño of Bayan Muna is concerned, it simply means “there appears to be a cover-up” on the part of the administration, especially because the police officials concerned have a hard time convincing the senators in the Senate initial probe. (www.philstar.com)

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

MAINLAND

Los Angeles to Build 20,000 Affordable Homes LOS ANGELES MAYOr Antonio Villaraigosa recently unveiled “Housing That Works”—an ambitious five year, $5 billion plan to build 20,000 affordable housing units that would make the city a more affordable place for middleclass families to live and work. Los Angeles is the second largest city in the U.S. with an estimated population of 3.8 million. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, well over 120,000 Filipinos call Los Angeles their home. Unfortunately, affordable housing remains out of reach for many middle class families in Los Angeles. In 2007, more than 5,200 fam-

ilies lost their homes to foreclosure—and that number is expected to rise to 10,000 by the end of 2008. At the same time, households are spending more than half of their incomes on housing. Only 11 percent of the area’s households can afford a medianpriced home and approximately 40,000 people sleep on the streets of the city each night. Housing That Works represents the first time that all of Los Angeles’ housing and planning departments are uniting in a coordinated effort and under one strategy to invest in affordable housing. This effort is expected to bring a new

level of transparency and stability to the City’s housing investment strategy, which will allow it to leverage $1 billion in public funds into a $5 billion investment in affordable housing throughout local neighborhoods. The Mayor’s Office will coordinate resources from different departments and develop public-private partnerships to reach the $5 billion goal. Efforts have gotten off to a good start, thanks to a $700 million pledge from Enterprise Community Partners. Using funds from this capital campaign, Villaraigosa’s plan is to build and preserve 20,000 affordable homes and implement a mixed-income housing ordinance that requires the city’s largest de-

Filipino Chefs Star at Ayala Foundation Dinner TOP FILIPINO CHEFS in the San Francisco Bay area gathered last month for a benefit dinner hosted by Ayala Foundation USA. “Filipino Bytes: A Celebration of the Pleasures of Filipino-inspired Cuisine” was held at the residence of Ayala chairman Diosdado Banatao in Atheron, California. The menu featured the culinary talents of executive chefs from five select restaurants: Kelly Degala of Pres A Vi, Jennie Lorenzo of Fifth Floor, Tim Luym of Poleng Lounge, Em-

manuel George Santos of Bistro Luneta and Daniel Sudar of Red Lantern. These kitchen masters put a twist on classic Pinoy dishes with a twist for a night of pure gastronomic delight. The chefs turned old Pinoy favorites into inventive culinary masterpieces such as grilled house-made tocino and longanisa glazed with annatto-cilantro oil, fresh oyster shooters with gazpacho, maki made from milkfish, tomatoes and salted duck egg, and pinakbet made from Baby Filipino

NEWS

eggplant, okra, bittermelon, summer squash, spicy bagoong, crispy tamarind pork belly, and prawn salt. The event raised more than $50,000. Proceeds will fund the operations of the Ayala Foundation USA which acts as a channel of funds raised by overseas Filipinos for social development programs in the Philippines. One of AF-USA’s banner programs is GILAS (Gearing Up for Internet Literacy and Access for Students) which aims to connect all public high schools in the Philippines to the Internet.

velopers to offer units at prices LA’s workforce can afford. “This city’s economic success and vitality depend on our ability to plan for a future of sustainability and stability in our housing market,”

OCTOBER 25, 2008 says Mayor Villaraigosa. “This plan lays the building blocks of housing our middle class can afford and takes the first steps toward building housing that works for all Angelenos.” (www.philfortune.com)

U.S. Martial Arts Group to Hold Event in RP Next Year OFFICIALS FROM ULTIMATE Fighting Championship (UFC), the biggest and most popular mixed martial arts organization in the U.S., are hoping to hold a tournament in the Philippines in the summer of 2009. UFC officials recently returned from a promotional tour to the Philippines and were impressed by the enthusiastic response. “The Philippines is definitely happening, we’re working on that right now,” says Dana White. The Philippines, Australia and Germany—those three are right now.” UFC recently agreed to a partnership with ABS-CBN, one of the largest media companies in the Philippines. During last month’s tour, more than 4,000 people watched UFC fighter Chuck “the Ice Man” Liddell hold an open workout at the Mall of Asia located next to Manila Bay. “Chuck is a rock star over

here,” says UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta. “He walks in the hotel and there are people all over him. We ended up doing a public training session and over 4,000 people showed up at the Mall of Asia just to see him. It was very interesting, even at times a little bit scary because there were so many people there.” Fertitta added that if a UFC event were to be held in the Philippines in 2009, it would feature UFC fighters but also showcase Pinoy and other Southeast Asian fighters. Currently, there are two well-known Pinoy fighters under contract with UFC or its affiliates—Brandon Vera and Mark Munoz. (Asian Journal Online)

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

LEGAL NOTES

OCTOBER 25, 2008

Extended Trips May Cause Loss of Green Card by Reuben S. SEGURITAN awful permanent residents who travel abroad for an extended period should familiarize themselves with the rules pertaining to abandonment of permanent residence. They may be refused admission when they come back and faced with the possibility of losing their green card. A returning resident who is found to have abandoned his/her permanent residence by an officer

of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry will be charged under immigration laws as an immigrant who is not in possession of a valid entry document. He/she will be issued a Notice to Appear before an immigration judge. At the hearing, the government has the burden to prove abandonment of residence. Remaining outside the U.S. continuously for over a year is considered by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as abandonment of residence. An absence of less than a year may also lead to a finding of abandonment especially if the U.S. resident lived and worked abroad and did not establish continuous intent to return to the U.S. In one case, a lawful permanent resident stayed in the U.S. for

less than one-third of his time and spent the rest in London to be with his wife and daughter, who were waiting for their immigrant visas. During his stay in the U.S., he worked temporarily and lived in temporary housing. The court held that he had relinquished his permanent resident status although he was absent from the U.S. for less than a year at a time. The USCIS looks at the intent of the green card holder rather than the length of his stay abroad in determining abandonment of residence. One who is returning from a temporary visit abroad is considered to have the intent to maintain his permanent residence in the U.S. A trip is considered a temporary visit abroad if it is for a relatively short period fixed by some

early event or if the visit will terminate upon the occurrence of an event with a reasonable possibility of occurring within a short period of time. In case the event does not take place within a relatively short period of time, the trip will be considered as temporary visit abroad only if the resident shows a continuous and uninterrupted intent to return during the visit. Some criteria used in determining the presence of a continuous, uninterrupted intention to return include property and business affiliations in the U.S., family ties, length of residence in the U.S. and family and business ties in the foreign country. In one case, a permanent resident was found not to have abandoned his residence in the U.S. although he took three trips abroad and was absent from the U.S. for

PHILIPPINE NEWS

fifteen months during his third trip. The purpose of his first trip which lasted four months was to sell items and take care of some school matters for his children. In his second trip of six months, he took care of his dying mother. His third trip, which lasted for fifteen months, was for the sale of his family house. The court, in deciding the case, took into consideration the totality of circumstances. It noted that given the fact that his wife and children lived in the U.S., his trips abroad were temporary visits and did not show a lack of continuous, uninterrupted intention to return. EDITOR’S NOTE: REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has been practicing law for over 30 years. For further information, you may call him at 212 695 5281 or log on to his website at www.seguritan.com

RP Unveils Anti-Terrorism Robot MAKATI CITY’S POLICE DEPARTMENT recently unveiled the Philippines’ first bomb disposal robot. Made of aluminum, fiberglass, and engineering plastic, the two feet tall machine was officially named MAC (Mechanical Anti-terrorist Concept) and conferred the rank of Police Inspector. MAC successfully examined and retrieved an explosive de-

vice that was brought to a bomb expert and safely detonated. In another demonstration, MAC brought a cell phone to a designated hostage-taker to open lines of communication with police. MAC was developed by engineering professors and students from the Mapua Institute of Technology. It can be con-

OFW Deployment Breaches 1-million Mark in First 9 Months by Mayen JAYMALIN / Saturday, October 25 2008 THE PHILIPPINE OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT Administration (POEA) reported yesterday that the hiring of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in various countries abroad has increased and even breached the one million mark despite the global economic slump. POEA reported the deployment of Filipino workers increased by 25.9 percent. Data from the POEA showed that in the first nine months of the year, some 1,005,767 land-based and sea-based workers were deployed, 207,036 more than the number of workers sent abroad during the same period last year. POEA chief Jennifer Manalili said that the number of newly hired workers increased by 28.8 percent from 258,176 OFWs deployed in 2007 to 332,650 this year. Land-based workers made up the bulk of the overseas workers, registering a 6.2 percent increase in deployment this year. The hiring of sea-based workers, which recorded a decrease in the past years, posted a six percent increase in the first nine months of 2008. Contracts processed from January to September went up by 6.2 percent from a total of 880,699 to 936,147. Manalili said latest POEA data showed that the government already achieved 71.9 percent of the target 1.3 million contracts to be processed this year. She said the POEA had already exceeded the annual target of one million workers deployed, with three more months remaining in the year. Labor officials have expressed confidence that the prevailing economic slump would not lead to a decrease in deployment since most countries, particularly those in the Middle East, are in need of highly skilled workers. Labor Secretary Marianito Roque said more Filipino workers are expected to be hired soon for Qatar, with higher salaries and benefits. (www.philstar.com)

trolled either by attached wires or by remote control. It sports rear vision cameras with night vision capability and can move at a maximum speed of 15 kilometers per hour. The one-armed, night-seeing robot won the top prize in the recently held First World Cup of Computer-Implemented Inventions in Shanghai. It beat entries

from 84 countries. Gilbert Cruz, Makati City police chief, said that MAC was commissioned to help the Bomb Disposal Unit handle weekly bomb threats that plague Makati businesses.

MAC (Mechanical Anti-terrorist Concept) robot

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

ILOKO

OCTOBER 25, 2008

Ti Eleksion, Ti Puersa, Ti Kalintegan, Ti Gundaway Ni Elektor ILOKO

by Amado I. YORO ibibiag ti Dara nga Agtartaray ken ni Kadaraan uray ania a daga iti ania man a basingkawel ti politika Pagsasao dagiti baniaga nga Ilokano: “Makapagramut latta ti mangbukel wenno sanga iti sadino a disso. Naayat ni Filipino iti panangyuna ken panagpadas” Daytoy ti pagsasaok: “Agitukitka iti Saluyot ita iti disso a yanmo, dumakkel a Saluyot dayta

nga intukitmo. Itukitmo ita ti Narra wenno Sagat, dumakkel dayta a Narra wenno Sagat” Pangababaan a sao: legacy. Kinagaget, kinaandur, maisurotna a nalaka ti bagi ken biagna iti garaw ken situasion ti aglawlawna. Trabaho man, pannangged ken mabalin a panangimaton ti negosio, nangato ti arapaap ni kadaraan. Nalakada la a yadaptar ti bagbagida iti disso a yanda. Tured. Determinasion. Saanda a mabuteng a mapaay; bumangonda manen no maitiklebda. Politika man ken ania a kita ti trabaho, saantayo a sanudan kas nayon ti pannakasubok ti biagtayo. ADDATAYO iti katengngaan ti

basingkawel ti politika iti sibubukel nga America ket kasta unayen ti kapudot ti kampania dagiti kangrunaan a kandidato a mangibaybayog iti masnop a partidoda. Iti Hawaii. Kasta met laeng ti ar-aramiden dagiti kandidato a para mayor kadagiti masnop a County kas iti Honolulu, Kauai, Big Island. UMAYEN ti Nobiembre 4 nga Eleksion Heneral kalpasan ti primaria. Mapili dagiti agsaad kadagiti nadumaduma a puesto. Adda latta ni kadaraan a kumandidato iti masnop a pagsaadan. . Adda dagiti partido kas iti , Libertarian, Independent ngem Dua ti kangrunaan a partido ti Democrat ken Republican. Eleksion presidensial pay ita a tawen iti America.

Dua a senador ti agsalip: McCain ken Obama. Adda agkuna a ‘natangkenan, nataengan, napno’t padas; ken ‘agkabannuag, agdadamo, nakurang iti padas. Ngem iti biangko, awan ti ubing wenno nataengan iti panagserbi Basta ti panggep ken nasinaw ken napudno a panagserbi iti amin. Ti nasken a botosan, dagiti isyu a pagtaktakderan a pagimbagan ti kaaduan. Kadatayo nga adda karbengan nga agbotos, datayo a US citizen a makapagbotos, saantayo koma a suliten ti agbotos. Saan a ti kaawan ti panawen a mapan iti biyembo iti kaaldawan ti eleskion ti rasontayo a saan nga

agbotos. Mabalin ti absentee ballot. Ala, uray asino man ti kayatmo a kandidato, dayta ti nasken nga aramidem. Nawayaka a mangited dayta a botos ket naitedmo metten ti bendision iti dayta a kandidato. Natungpalmo metten ti karbengam. A G B O T O S TAY O . Laglagipentayo a ti eleksion kas kalintegan. Eleksion a kas puersa Kinapateg ti botos. Isu ti mangipakita ti intayo panangipeksa ti bileg ti kalintegan. ELEKSION A KAS GUNDAWAY Panagpuot. Panagriing. Panangtubay ti masakbayan. Dayta ti palagiptayo iti bagbagitayo. Partisipasion dayta kas puersatayo kas umili.

GLOBAL NEWS

BBC Says Sorry to RP for Slur by Pia LEE-BRAGO / Saturday, October 25 2008 THE BRITISH BROADCASTING CORP. (BBC) has apologized to the Philippines for the offensive skit in the comedy show “Harry and Paul” that portrayed Filipino women as sex objects. BBC director general Mark Thompson apologized, in a letter dated Oct. 10, 2008, to Philippine Ambassador to the Court of St. James Edgardo Espiritu, for the offense caused by the episode of Harry and Paul. The Philippine Embassy in London received the letter from Thompson only last Oct. 20 and it stated: “Please accept my sincere apologies, on behalf of the BBC, for the offense that this programme caused you.” The apology came following a letter sent last Oct. 3 by Espiritu to BBC Trust Chairman Sir Michael Lyons expressing the ambassador’s dismay over an episode of Harry and Paul, initially shown on BBC on Sept. 26 and replayed on BBC 2 on Sept. 29. The episode made an insulting reference to Filipino women, stereotyping them in dual roles as domestic helper and sex toy of their British employers. Espiritu also wrote a similar

letter to the BBC Complaints Centre, copy furnished to Mark Pritchard, chairman of the All Party Parliamentary GroupPhilippines and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office; Sir Trevor Phillips, head of the UK Equality and Human Rights Commission; the Office of Communications (OFCOM|), the independent regulator of the UK communications industries; Sir Christopher Meyer KCMG, head of the UK Press Complaints Commission; London Mayor Boris Johnson; and the Rt. Hon. Harriet Harman MP, UK Secretary of State for Women and Equality. The episode angered most of the 200,000-strong Filipino community in the United Kingdom and prompted some leaders of the community to put up an online petition where Filipinos could lodge their protest against BBC and the show’s producer, Tiger Aspect Productions. The online petition gathered more than 2,000 supporters within three days. Simultaneous silent vigils were also held on Oct. 17 in front of the BBC office in White City, just outside central London, and Tiger Aspect Productions in Soho in central London.

Tiger Aspect Productions Chief Executive Andrew Zane issued an apology before the members of the Filipino community who joined the Soho vigil. “We’re sorry to anyone who was in any way offended by the programme. This certainly was not our intention,” Zane said. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) summoned British Ambassador Peter Beckingham last Oct. 7 following the airing of the offensive skit. Beckingham said after a meeting with Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo that the United Kingdom regrets the skit of the comedy show and he promised the secretary that he would relay the Philippine government’s concerns about the program to the British government. Beckingham did not make any apology and said that the producers of the program should apologize. The ambassador added that, like the Philippines, the British press is free and the government does not interfere with the media directly and the BBC is completely independent. He said the BBC is not a government broadcasting station “but obviously as a government we hope the media always respect the human rights and dignity of ethnic groups, minority groups, particularly religious groups.” Beckingham said Romulo did not hand him a note verbale to protest the comedy show for the offensive portrayal of Filipino women. He said that there are around 200,000 Filipinos in the UK. (www.philstar.com)

OCTOBER 25, 2008

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2, 2008 / SUNDAY Aloha Medical Mission, 25th Anniversary ● Hilton Hawaiian Village, Tapa Ballroom ● 5:00 PM ● Please RSVP by October 24 Call (808) 847-3400

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NON-MEDICAL CAREGIVERS WANTED In-house training program for non-certified candidates. CNA & HHA welcomed. Part time and full time positions available. Contact: Lynn at Aloha Home Care Services Phone: 271-0885

NOVEMBER 9, 2008 / SUNDAY Cavitenians & Associates of Hawaii Annual Thanksgiving Fiesta ● Public Work Recreation Center ( By Salt Lake Blvd) ● 10:00 AM ● Call Carlos Vida at 674-2379 or Cora Legaspi at 671-2353

ATTENTION: FILIPINO ORGANIZATIONS & NON-PROFITS Have your Community Event Published in our Calendar! Fax Your Press Release to 678-1829 or e-mail it tofilipinochronicle@gmail.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION

COMMUNITY PARADE

JULY 12, 2008