010420 - LA Weekend Edition

JANUARY 4-7, 2020 Volume 29 - No. 104 • 4 Sections – 30 Pages

Filipinos in US ‘not covered’ in PH visa requirement plan - Palace

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

FILIPINOS in the United States would not be covered by the Duterte administration’s proposed plan requiring American citizens to obtain visas before entering the Philippines, Malacañang clarified this week.

This comes after presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo previously said that President Ro-

drigo Duterte would order American citizens, “including Filipino Americans,” to get a visa before traveling to the country.

“Filipinos residing or sojourning in America, or our balikbayans, are not covered by our ultimatum should the U.S. government pursue banning the entry of Filipino officials acting in accordance with the Philippine law apropos Senator [Leila] De Lima’s case,” said Presidential Spokesperson Salva-

USA

DATELINE Newsom signs new laws addressing housing, health care, gun safety FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

ON Wednesday, January 1 California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law hundreds of bills that address a bevy of progressive policies that range from renter protection laws to an individual mandate law that requires all Californians to have health insurance.

In total, 1,200 laws were signed on the first day of 2020, but some will take effect later this year. As a mouthpiece for liberal ideals, Newsom’s approval affirms the Democratic majority of the California Legislature and the state’s electorate at large.

As previously reported in the Asian Journal, California is now officially the first state to expand Medicaid coverage to any low-income persons between the ages of 19 to 25 regardless of immigration status.

Previously, only undocumented minors could apply for Medi-Cal, but Newsom’s approval of SB 104 expands that to anyone unu PAGE A4

dor Panelo in a statement.

The United States is home to the largest number of Filipinos abroad, with a population of over 4 million individuals of Filipino descent, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey from 2018. California (1.6 million), Hawaii (367,364) and Texas (194,427) were the top three states with Filipino residents. u PAGE A2

FIRST TRADING DAY. Top officials of the Philippine Stock Exchange and its affiliate agencies celebrate the first trading day of 2020 on Thursday, January 2. In photo are Roberto Jose Jimenez, assistant vice president; Alejandro Yu, director; Renee Rubio, Securities Clearing Corp. of the Philippines (SCCP) chairman; Omita Tiangco, treasurer; Roel Refran, Chief operating officer; Ramon Monzon, president and chief operating officer; Jose Pardo, chairman; Daisy Arce, Capital Markets Integrity Corp. (CMIC) president; Eddie Gobing, director; and Wilson Sy, director.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Gerard Seguia

‘Ursula’ deaths climb to 50; over 2-M affected

by DEMPSEY

REYES ManilaTimes.net

THE death toll from holiday Typhoon “Ursula” (international name: “Phanfone”) rose to 50 with more than 2 million persons affected, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said on Tuesday, December 31.

In Leyte, three more fatalities were added to the five recorded earlier in the province.

The NDRRMC recorded 47 fatalities as of late December last year.

The number of the injured remained at Residents construct a makeshift shelter after their house was destroyed at the height of Typhoon 143 and the missing at five.

The NDRRMC said a total of 522,460 famUrsula in Guiuan town in Eastern Samar province last December 26, 2019.

Inquirer.net photo

Martial law in Mindanao ends after 953 days

by IAN

NICOLAS CIGARAL Philstar.com

MANILA — Martial law in Mindanao has ended as 2020 begins after President Rodrigo Duterte decided not to extend it for another year, with his defense chief saying the objective of placing the volatile south under military rule for two years and seven months has been achieved.

In May 2017, Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao after the principal Islamic City of Marawi was stormed by homegrown terrorists loyal to the Islamic State. It was extended for the third time in 2018 and lapsed by the end of 2019.

Upon the recommendation of the country’s

by CON

top brass, Duterte did not ask for another extension of what had already been the Philippines’ longest period of military rule since the draconian regime of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

“They (security officials) are confident that they can maintain the current peace and order in Mindanao and that an attack similar in scale to Marawi cannot be waged by the remnants of the Mautes or by any other terrorist groups in the future,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a statement issued on New Year’s Eve. “The present number of troops will remain as is wherever they are and will Members of the Ampatuan family sit with other suspects in the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre at u PAGE A3 the promulgation of the case inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City last December 19, 2019.

Third US senator says Duterte ‘sorely mistaken’ for 4 decades imposing travel ban to PH Pacquiao 1st boxer to hold world titles in B L by

A THIRD American senator has been subjected to a travel ban to the Philippines for his reported support of denying Philippine government officials entry into the U.S. if they were involved in Senator Leila De Lima’s arrest and detention.

Massachusetts Senator Edward Markey on Thursday said that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration had confirmed he was barred due to his denouncements on the human rights situation in the country.

Despite this, Markey in a statement said he won’t be silenced by the Philippine government’s actions.

“President [Rodrigo] Duterte is sorely mistaken if he thinks he can silence my voice and that of my colleagues,” the senator said in a statement.

The U.S. senator pointed out that Duterte already failed to silence De Lima and Rappler chief Maria Ressa, as well as others in the u PAGE A2 Senator Manny Pacquiao

ilies or 2,122,581 persons were affected in 2,544 villages in the regions affected by the typhoon —Mimaropa (Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan), Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Caraga.

Of the number, 21,409 families or 84,909 persons were reported to be staying inside the 654 designated evacuation centers in these regions.

According to NDRRMC spokesman Mark Timbal on late Monday, evacuees in Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas have returned to their respective homes already.

Partly damaged schools were reported u PAGE A3

Photo from Instagram/@mannypacquiao

ONG OZADA Inquirer.net

MANILA — There are boxers who defined decades like Muhammad Ali in the 1960s and 1970s, or the Four Kings Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, and Marvin Hagler in the 1980s.

Of course, there was Mike Tyson who became the “Baddest Man on the Planet” during the 1990s.

Then there’s Manny Pacquiao.

The Filipino sporting icon already made history in 2010 when he became boxing’s only eight-division World champion when he defeated Antonio Margarito for the WBC World super u PAGE A2

Photo courtesy of the Supreme Court Public Information Office

Ampatuan massacre convicts appeal verdict

by RITCHEL

MENDIOLA AJPress

THE Maguindanao massacre convicts have started to file their motions for reconsideration against the Dec. 19, 2019 ruling that found them guilty.

Former Datu Unsay Mayor Andal “Unsay” Ampatuan, Jr., Anwar Ampatuan Sr., as well as his two sons, Anwar “Datu Ipi” Ampatuan, Jr. and Anwar Sajid “Datu Ulo” Ampatuan filed their notice of appeal on Thursday, January 2, while Zaldy Ampatuan, former governor of the then Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, filed his on Friday, January 3.

According to Anwar Sr., there was reportedly no evidence that he conspired with the other convicts in the case, pointing out that he was not present during the meeting where he allegedly suggested killing their rival clan, the Mangudadatus, and burying their vehicles.

His sons also claimed there was not enough evidence that they were in the area of the crime scene even though the court’s finding said they even had a contest over who had the most number of victims killed.

The Ampatuans noted that Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes of Quezon City Regional Trial Court u PAGE A3

A january 4-7, 2020 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

Filipinos in US not...

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

From the Front Page

Currently, U.S. passport holders are able to enter the Philippines PAGE A1 t Along with that, Duterte has visa-free for 30 days and must President Rodrigo Duterte on been mulling a requirement for show a return ticket.

Durbin, for his part, said that the December 27, 2019, ordered an American citizens to secure a visa entry ban on United States sena- before they can enter Philippine planned travel restriction was an “insult” to the Filipino American tors who have been calling for the territory. release of De Lima, namely U.S. The U.S. is the country’s third- community and the country’s deSens. Richard Durbin of Illinois biggest driver for tourists to the mocracy, warning that the policy and Patrick Leahy of Vermont. Philippines. According to the De- would be disadvantageous to FiliThis week, this ban has included partment of Tourism, 872,335 pino Americans as well as others Sen. Edward Markey of Massa- Americans visited the country as who travel between the two countries. chusetts as well. of end-October 2019.

In response, Panelo said Durbin’s warning was misplaced.

“As regards Sen. Durbin’s remark that this administration should stop threatening the travel of Filipino Americans from the U.S. to the Philippine territory, the same is likewise misplaced,” he said.

According to him, imposing visa requirements on foreign nationals is “an exercise of a sovereign right and is not an insult to any particular community.”

“In fact, they have been requiring Filipinos to secure a US visa before we can travel into their homeland. As the community of nations believes in, ‘diplomacy is equality,’” Panelo added.

U.S. President Donald Trump recently signed the country’s 2020 budget, which included an amendment that the U.S. Secretary of State “shall apply sub-section (c) to foreign government officials about whom the secretary has credible information have been involved in the wrongful imprisonment of… Sen. Leila de Lima who was arrested in the Philippines in 2017.”

Malacañang said that the entry ban could not be enforced unless there is “credible information” proving that De Lima is detained wrongfully.

“Allegations of violation of human rights on Sen. De Lima’s case are coming from either absolute ignorance or shameful bias. It is high time for these U.S. senators to consult their U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim who is knowledgeable on our local processes before they start blabbering further nonsense,” Panelo said.

The spokesman also said that the U.S. senators’ call for De Lima’s release is “a brazen interference into our sovereignty.”

“Their alternative demand to provide the lady senator a fair, speedy and credible trial is totally misplaced because precisely, that is being given her by the hearing court as required by the Constitution,” he added. n

Malacañang confirmed that Massachusetts Sen. Edward Markey has joined fellow Democratic Senators Dick Durbin and Patrick Leahy, authors of the entry ban amendment, in the list of American lawmakers barred from entering the Philippines.

Photo from the Office of Senator Ed Markey

Third US senator says Duterte ‘sorely mistaken...

PAGE A1 t country who have spoken truth to power.

“I stand with the people of the Philippines with my state’s vibrant Filipino American community in fighting for the highest democratic ideals and against the strongman tactics of the Duterte government,” Markey said.

Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the country’s 2020 budget, which included an amendment that the U.S. Secretary of State “shall apply sub-section (c) to foreign government officials about whom

the secretary has credible information have been involved in the wrongful imprisonment of… Sen. Leila De Lima who was arrested in the Philippines in 2017.”

On December 27, 2019, Duterte instructed the Philippine Bureau of Immigration “immediately” to deny U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Patrick Leahy entry into the Philippines after they pushed for the provisions in the national budget.

Along with that, Duterte is also considering requiring American citizens to secure a visa before they can enter Phil-

ippine territory.

Following Durbin’s statement calling the administration’s travel ban an “insult” to the Filipino American community, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said imposing visa requirements on foreign nationals is “an exercise of a sovereign right and is not an insult to any particular community.”

“In fact, they have been requiring Filipinos to secure a U.S. visa before we can travel into their homeland. As the community of nations believes in, ‘diplomacy is equality,’” the spokesperson added. (AJPress)

Pacquiao 1st boxer to hold world titles...

PAGE A1 t welterweight championship.

Then 10 years later he once again took another proverbial belt in the pantheon of the sport.

When all the calendars on the planet turned to January 1, 2020, Pacquiao became the first boxer in history to hold a World title in four decades.

Since defeating Chatchai Sasakul in 1998 for the WBC World flyweight title, Pacquiao has

since racked up every belt imaginable and his continuing reign with the WBA Super World welterweight championship that he got from Keith Thurman in July meant that he’s been a champion, in one form or another, for two generations.

Pacquiao (62-7-2), overall, won 12 World titles and was named the Lineal Champion in five weight classes—flyweight, featherweight, super featherweight, light welterweight, and

welterweight—the most of any boxer in history.

From 1998, Pacquiao won the WBC World flyweight, IBF World junior featherweight, The Ring featherweight, WBC, World super featherweight, The Ring junior lightweight, WBC World lightweight, The Ring junior welterweight, WBO, World welterweight (three times), WBA Super World welterweight, and WBC World super welterweight titles. n

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Trump compromises on vaping, FDA bans most e-cig flavors

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

END OF AN ERA. The Harrison Plaza, once the go-to place for shopping and entertainment, closes its doors to the public on Tuesday, December 31. The shopping complex, once one of the biggest establishments in Metro Manila, opened in 1976. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

Reports of patients’ deaths linked to heart devices lurk below radar

by Christina Jewett Kaiser Health News

THE Food and Drug Administration continues to file thousands of reports of patients’ deaths related to medical devices through a reporting system that keeps the safety data out of the public eye.

The system is similar to a vast program exposed earlier this year

by KHN that kept device-injury reports effectively hidden within the agency. The FDA shuttered the program after the article about it was published and released millions of records.

The result of this remaining so-called registry exemption program is that key death data about heart devices sits in inaccessible FDA reports that can take up to two years for the public to see under open-records laws. Devicerelated death reports are typically open, allowing researchers to track and alert their peers about safety concerns.

The FDA carved out the exemption in 2010 and it covers six devices, a spokeswoman said. Doctors tend to report extensive data on patients for certain medical devices that are closely monitored in registries. Private medical societies tend to administer the registries and act as gatekeepers to the data.

The registry leaders, in turn, have reported data to device makers, who sent the FDA spreadsheets detailing what they know about more than 8,000 patient deaths. Those spreadsheets are also inaccessible to the public.

Under standard FDA reporting rules, the device maker is bound to investigate and send the agency a detailed public report about each patient death believed to be device-related.

Device makers say the registries strip key data they need to fully investigate each death, most of them related to heart valves threaded through a catheter and implanted in faulty hearts.

“It’s crazy,” said Diana Zuckerman, president of the National Center for Health Research. “I have to say, there’s not a particular reason I can think of why you put [summary reports] behind some kind of firewall where no

one can see it.”

An FDA spokeswoman said the agency just got additional funding from Congress that it plans to use to make “more information readily available and easier to access.”

“We agree that the public should have access to more information about reports of adverse events for medical devices,” the agency said in an email, noting that its current public device database called MAUDE is outdated and “has limited functionalities.”

Earlier this year, the FDA shut down other so-called exemptions to its device-reporting rules that put millions of device harm or malfunction reports out of public reach. Doctors, researchers and even device-safety experts were unaware that for 20 years the FDA accepted 5.7 million reports through its “alternative summary reporting” program.

The FDA released the data ― and the identity of 108 devices that had been quietly “exempted” from public reporting ― in June after KHN reported on the scope of the program.

The FDA also said in December that it is no longer accepting “litigation” summary reports, also highlighted in the KHN report, which makers of pelvic mesh and surgical robots used to file thousands of reports on spreadsheets straight to the agency.

The FDA said it left the registry exemption in place to support the massive datasets being built around certain devices. The registry data helps the agency “act quickly with manufacturers and health care professionals to make more timely, evidence-based decisions to mitigate device problems and keep patients safe,” the statement said.

The FDA accepts hundreds of death reports on spreadsheets kept within the agency from the TVT Registry, which tracks valves threaded through a patient’s vessel in a catheter and implanted in the heart.

The devices have been hailed as lifesaving for patients too fragile for open-heart surgery. They have also been controversial because they have created a need in some patients for an additional device ― a pacemaker ― com-

‘Ursula’ deaths climb to 50...

PAGE A1 t to number 416 in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon), Mimaropa, Bicol, Western Visayas and Eastern Visayas.

A total of 406,228 houses have been damaged as well in Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas, of which 104,469 were destroyed

and 301,759 partly damaged.

States of calamity were declared in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Kalibo and Malay in Aklan; Libertad and Pandan in Antique; Sigma, Capiz; Carles and Concepcion in Iloilo; Madridejos, Cebu; Daram, Samar; the whole province of Eastern Samar; and the whole province of Leyte. n

Ampatuan massacre convicts...

PAGE A1 t Branch No. 221, who handed down the ruling, relied heavily on the testimony of suspectturned-state witness Sukarno Badal, whose credibility they questioned before the court.

“It is arduous to believe that the alleged eyewitness could have remembered everything every participant said in those meetings,” read Anwar Sr.’s plea.

Meanwhile, the joint motion of Anwar Jr. and Anwar Sajid said, “His testimony should not be entitled to full faith and credit.”

“It is a settled axiom that [if]

witnesses testify falsely as to any material fact... their testimony should be discarded as a whole,” they added.

The Ampatuans were sentenced to reclusion perpetua (a life sentence) or up 40 years in prison, along with 23 others for 57 counts of murder.

On Monday, December 6, the QC court is set to hear some of the motions filed including Zaldy Ampatuan’s plea to be moved to the New Bilibid Prison infirmary due to his poor health. The hearing for the remaining motions will be on Friday. n

Martial law in Mindanao ends...

PAGE A1 t

continue to collaborate with the [local government units] to sustain peace and stability,” Lorenzana added.

Martial law remains a sensitive issue in the Philippines after it was used by Marcos in the 1970s to perpetuate himself in power.

Some lawmakers had opposed the third extension to martial law, arguing that a prolonged military rule cannot be “the new normal” for Mindanao.

Analysts doubt that martial law alone would be enough to stop

the growth of terror cells linked to Islamic State in the restive parts of Mindanao, adding that a comprehensive government response is needed to address violent extremism and insurgency.

According to a December 2019 opinion poll by Social Weather Stations, 65% of Filipinos backed the lifting of martial law in Mindanao, with 49% of respondents agreeing that “[a]t present, there is no more threat that another Marawi-like terrorist attack can happen anywhere in Mindanao.” n

pounding their risk. Experts have also questioned whether the devices will be durable, particularly as they’re increasingly implanted in younger patients.

Such a heart valve made by Medtronic called CoreValve amassed the most reports, with more than 5,800 death incidents reported since 2014, according to Medtronic. The device was initially approved for patients too sick for open-heart surgery.

The device helped boost survival in fragile, elderly heart patients, with nearly three-quarters still alive and free of major strokes

u PAGE A5

A WEEK after the Trump administration announced the ban of tobacco sales to anyone under the age of 21, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a policy that bans the sale of most flavors of cartridge e-cigarettes.

The compromise announced on Thursday, January 2 was designed to quell the concerns of public health officials and parents worried about the rising levels of vaping among youth while appeasing leaders of the tobacco industry, which includes manufacturers of e-cigarettes.

FDA officials said that e-cigarette cartridges offered in mint, fruit or dessert flavors would be banned within the next month, but the ban does not apply to menthol and tobacco flavors, as well as flavored liquid nicotine for open tank systems sold in vape shops.

“The United States has never seen an epidemic of substance use arise as quickly as our current epidemic of youth use of e-cigarettes,” Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex M. Azar said. “HHS is taking a comprehensive, aggressive approach to enforcing the law passed by Congress, under which no e-cigarettes are currently on the market legally.”

Manufacturers who want to market vaping products — ecigarettes or the e-liquids — now

have until May 12 to prove to the FDA that their products do not pose a public health risk. In other words, the targeted products of the ban may ultimately be approved by the FDA and return to the market.

In the lead up to Thursday’s announcement, companies complained that a full-blown ban on e-cigarettes could push vape shop owners out of business. The partial ban was also designed to address an ongoing national epidemic while also considering adults who may want to try vaping in order to quit smoking traditional cigarettes.

Azar pointed out national surveys that found that teenagers were more keen on the now-banned mint and fruit flavors and “overwhelmingly prefer cartridge-based e-cigarette products” such as the popular JUUL e-cigarette.

“By prioritizing enforcement against the products that are most widely used by children, our action today seeks to strike the right public health balance by maintaining e-cigarettes as a potential off-ramp for adults using combustible tobacco while ensuring these products don’t provide an on-ramp nicotine addiction for our youth,” Azar explained.

The ban has been a move months in the making for the Trump administration. In September, Trump, First Lady Me-

lania Trump, and two White House public health experts made an announcement that the administration would address growing concerns over vaping-related illnesses among American youth.

In a speech delivered in the Oval Office, Trump promised to deliver “very, very strong” measures against teenage vaping and suggested that his administration would institute a full ban on vape products.

The national discourse over what to do with e-cigarette products and which flavors should be prohibited was catalyzed by a sudden outbreak in 2019 of lung injuries stemmed from vaping THC, the principal psychoactive ingredient in marijuana.

But following Thursday’s announcement, medical and public health organizations said that the partial ban was a good move forward, but wasn’t enough to adequately address the issue.

“If we are serious about tackling this epidemic and keeping these harmful products out of the hands of young people, a total ban on all flavored e-cigarettes — in all forms and at all locations — is prudent and urgently needed,” the American Medical Association said in a statement, adding that it was “disappointed that menthol flavors — one of the most popular — will still be allowed.” n

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PH economists wary of impact of brewing US-Iran war: OFW job losses, rise in oil prices

by Ben

O. de Vera Inquirer.net

GOODBYE FIRECRACKERS. Col. Marlon Santos, officer-in-charge of the Cavite Police Provincial Office, leads the destruction of illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, estimated to be worth P452,847, at Camp General Pantaleon Garcia in Imus City on Thursday, January 2. The move is part of the government crackdown on illegal firecrackers during the recent New Year revelry.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Alias ‘The Filipino’ indicted for shipping tons of meth to US via PH ONTARIO, California —A man known under several aliases, including “The Filipino,” was indicted in in federal court in early December, accused of playing a key role in a global drug-trafficking operation.

Jorge Gomez Torres, 66, of Ontario, allegedly coordinated shipments of more than 1,000 tons of methamphetamine to the Philippines and then importing them to the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Torres pleaded not guilty to one count of drug trafficking and two counts of money laundering, according to an indictment unsealed last December 4, 2019, at the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, according to Patch.com report.

A total of 17 defendants were charged in the indictment, most of whom are fugitives thought to be living in Mexico, according to authorities.

According to the indictment,

law enforcement seized about 185 pounds of methamphetamine in 2013 from a rooster ranch in the Philippines that Torres allegedly owned.

Torres’ ring used shell companies to obtain shipping documents that allowed members to ship drugs to countries including the Philippines and Australia, with the drugs often hidden inside machinery, authorities said.

A trial date for Torres was set for Jan. 28. (Inquirer.net)

DTI, SEIPI to engage in trade and investment promotion for electronics in the US The Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI), the largest organization of foreign and Filipino electronics companies in the Philippines, will present the Philippine electronic capabilities during the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

CES 2020 will run from January 7-10 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The show is considered as the global stage for next-generation technologies which include Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), automotive, health and wellness, and entertainment content, among others.

“The CES 2020 is an ideal venue to engage with global electronics industry players and invite them to partner with the Philippines. Promoting the Philippine electronics industry is part of the Philippine Export Development Plan 2018-2022, wherein the government focuses on developing industries where the Philippines has competitive and comparative advantages,” said DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez.

“DTI is doing its part in improving the overall climate for export development. Moreover, we continue to strengthen existing prospective opportunities from trading arrangements, such as the

Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) with the U.S. Trade deals like the GSP are part of the DTI’s comprehensive support to strengthen industries and create more jobs and employment opportunities for Filipinos,” he added.

In addition to Philippine government agencies, the business delegation is composed of Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation, Inc. (SEIPI), Airfreight 2100, LGC Logistics Inc, Susumi Philippine Logistics Inc., Macro Wiring Technologies Co. Inc, Airspeed Logistics, De La Salle University, IONICS EMS Inc., MERALCO (Manila Electric Company), Integrated Micro-Electronics Inc. (IMI), and PLDT Inc. “The Philippine electronics industry stands to leverage on the opportunities being showcased in this event. We have a strong trade relationship with the U.S, as the Philippines is a significant part of the product supply in the global electronics market, Our industry offers full turnkey services from procurement to assembly, and is supported by a dexterity in supply chain management. We have excellent quality management programs with a full range of certification in global quality standards. We are delighted to present our seasoned engineering talent with highly skilled individuals who are productive, responsive and proficient in English,” said SEIPI President Dr. Dan Lachica.

The key features of this mission are the Philippine Electronics Industry seminar and networking forum on January 8 at rooms S102 and S103, South

Hall of the Las Vegas Convention and World Trade Center (LVCC) from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m, and the Country presentation during the World Electronics Forum from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on January 9 at the LVCC. Other components for the mission include individual client meetings, business forums, networking activities, meeting with government agencies, as well as company and facility visits in Silicon Valley, California.

The electronics industry mission in the U.S. is in collaboration with SEIPI and the electronics industry players in the Philippines, DTI-Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Los Angeles and San Francisco, with participation from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Export Zone Authority (PEZA).

In 2018, the electronics industry remained as the Philippines’s top exporter, which comprised 55% of the total Philippine merchandise exports amounting to $38.2 billion, and posted a double-digit compounded average growth of 9.26% for the period between 2014 and 2018.

The U.S. also ranked as the Philippines’ second-largest market in 2018 with a growth rate of 12.69%, which was valued at $5.13 billion.

From January-October 2019, PH Electronic Products exports (56.3% of the total PH exports) obtained a positive growth rate of 2.7% from $32.34 billion in the same period in 2018.

The U.S. also ranked 2nd largest Philippine market for electronics with 15.5% share amounting to $5.2 billion and grew 20.7% against January to October 2018 value of $4.3 billion. n

LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (LACMTA) SOUTHERN INVITATION FOR BID CALIFORNIA REGIONAL LACMTA will receive bids for SOUTHERN PS67753 - TAP Salesforce LiRAIL AUTHORITY censes Renewal at the 9th Floor CALIFORNIA REGIONAL Receptionist Desk, Vendor/ConIFB NO. PO780-20 tract Management Department, RAIL AUTHORITY One Gateway Plaza, Los AngeCOMMUNICATION, les, CA 90012.

IFB NO. PO805-20 SIGNAL & STRUCTURE A Pre-Bid conference will not COMMUNICATION be held. This project is a Small CONDUIT MATERIALS Business Enterprise (SBE) SetBATTERIES Aside contract. To participate in The Southern California Rethis IFB, bidders must be SBE certified with LACMTA prior to proposal due date. For information on the Set-Aside program, visit: https://business.metro. net/VendorPortal/faces/home1/ certifications

gional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking Bids for Communication, Signal & Structure Conduit Materials. The maximum dollar value for the contract will be for a total not-to-exceed amount of $1,000,000.00.

All Bids must be submitted on forms furnished by LACMTA, and must be filed at the reception desk, 9th floor, V/CM Department, on or before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time on Thursday, January 9, 2020, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read. Bids received later than the above date and time will be rejected and returned to the bidder unopened. Each bid must be sealed and marked Bid No. PS67753.

Bid documents may be obtained via download by visiting SCRRA’s website at http://www. metrolinktrains.com/agency/ page/title/doing business. Vendors must register for no fee on the website in order to download the documents.

For a copy of the Proposal/ Bid specification visit our Solicitation Page on our Vendor Portal at https://business.metro.net or for further information email Ana Rodriguez at rodrigueza8@ metro.net.

1/4/20 CNS-3328118# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

The contract to be awarded will be funded in part by grants under the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transportation Administration and is subject to a DBE Participation Goal of 4%.

For further information contact: Melissa Cousart, Contract and Compliance Administrator at 213.452.0207 or email Cousartm@scrra.net.

1/4/20 CNS-3328563# ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.)

THE Philippines is bracing for possible job losses among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East and an increase in inflation should global oil prices rocket amid increasing tension following the killing by the United States of a top Iranian militia general, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said on Friday, January 3.

Pernia told the Inquirer that one of the possible immediate effects of the increasing tension between the U.S. and Iran was the rise in domestic oil prices.

After the Pentagon confirmed that a targeted airstrike in Baghdad international airport on Jan. 3 killed top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani, global oil prices climbed by over 4 percent—Brent rose 4.4 percent to $69.16, while WTI increased 4.3 percent to $63.84, Agence France Presse (AFP) reported.

According to the wire agency AFP, global oil prices jumped as “investors grow increasingly worried about the effects of a possible flare-up in the tinderbox Middle East on supplies of the commodity.”

“The latest escalation of tensions between the U.S. and Iran led to higher global crude oil prices to the highest in about four months and also among seven-month highs,” economist Michael L. Ricafort, of RCBC, told Inquirer.

The drift closer to war between the US and Iran, Ricafort said, “could potentially disrupt oil production and supply especially from Iraq and Iran.”

He said this could happen “especially if oil facilities or infrastructure is involved” like what happened following the drone attack on Saudi Arabia’s oil refineries in September 2019.

“Local oil or petroleum prices could increase due to the resulting higher global oil prices,” said Ricafort.

“There will be an impact if this thing escalates. Oil prices may go up and nudge inflationary tendencies locally,” said economist Robert Dan J. Roces, of Security Bank.

Headline inflation, or figures based on Consumer Price Index, averaged a 10-year high of 5.2 percent in 2018 partly due to elevated oil prices that year.

Pernia, who heads the state planning agency National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), said the Philippines may have to find a way out of dependence on Middle East oil and “look for other sources.”

He said it would be “hard to imagine the consequences if conflagration is truly global in scale.”

Pernia said the Philippines has yet to tap Russia as a source of oil because of the absence of a firm agreement to import and export petroleum.

At the start of 2020, excise taxes slapped on oil products further increased by between P1 and P1.50 per liter or kilogram under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (Train) Act. The Train law provides a suspension of tax increases if global crude oil prices reached or exceeded $80 per barrel.

If the U.S.-Iran tension blow

up into war, Pernia said he worried about its impact on OFWs in the Middle East in the long run.

Security Bank’s Roces said a “huge deployment of workers in the Middle East” would have a significant impact if remittances from them stopped.

RCBC’s Ricafort said deployment of OFWs are threatened by escalation of tension between Iran and the U.S. “directly or through proxy attacks.”

Based on the latest Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data, 54.9 percent or about 1.26 million of the total 2.29 million OFWs in 2018 are in the Middle East or West Asia, which included Bahrain, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Between January and October 2019, cash remittances from Filipinos living and working abroad declined 7.8 percent to $5 billion from $5.4 billion a year ago, the latest Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data showed.

Even as remittance flows from the Middle East as of end-October last year were lower than in the same 10-month period in 2018, the BSP had said that Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE remained among the top sources of remittances.

Remittances have been the country’s biggest source of foreign exchange income, insulating the domestic economy from external shocks by ensuring a steady supply of dollars in the system.

These cash transfers were also a major driver for consumption, hence contributing to robust economic growth. n

A screenshot of the Google doodle featuring Genoveva Edroza Matute.

Google marks Matute birth anniversary with doodle by alVin

dacanay ManilaTimes.net

GOOGLE Philippines unveiled on Friday, January 3, a doodle of Genoveva Edroza Matute on its search engine to mark the late fictionist and educator’s 105th birth anniversary.

Drawn by Olivia When, the doodle features the author in a dark, floral-printed terno and writing in a library as sunlight pours in through a multipaned window behind her.

In an online note, Google describes her as “a language teacher for over 45 years and is widely known for her short stories, many of which fictionalized scenes from Filipino history.”

“Matute was born in Santa Cruz, Manila, on [Jan. 3,] 1915.

She attended the University of Santo Tomas, where she obtained her Ph.D. in 1964, and began teaching at the elementary and high school level before becoming a university professor,” it says.

The Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) is seeking Bids for communication batteries. The maximum dollar value for the contract PAGE A1 t will be for a total not-to-exceed der the age of 25. To qualify, amount of $500,000.00. applicants must earn less than 138% of the federal poverty level Bid documents may be ob— $17,200 a year for an individutained via download by visiting al or $35,500 for a family of four.

SCRRA’s website at http://www.

California will also now require metrolinktrains.com/agency/ all residents to have health insurpage/title/doing business. Venance with the new “individual dors must register for no fee on mandate” inspired by the one the website in order to downunder the federal Affordable Care load the documents.

Act that was eliminated last year.

Similar to the Affordable Care Act The contract to be awarded mandate, there will be a penalty to will be funded in part by grants those who fail to enroll in a healthunder the U.S. Department of care plan starting in April 2021.

Transportation, Federal TransIn an effort to quell ballooning portation Administration and is rents and to combat the increassubject to a DBE Participation ing rate of homelessness, CaliGoal of 4%. fornia became the second state to place a statewide rent cap For further information conwhen a new law that says that tact: Melissa Cousart, Contract landlords cannot raise rents to and Compliance Administrator more than 5% came into effect at 213.452.0207 or email Couon Wednesday. sartm@scrra.net.

The law also bans landlords 1/4/20 from arbitrarily evicting rentCNS-3328675# ers; or, in other words, landlords ASIAN JOURNAL (L.A.) would be prohibited from evict-

“Throughout her academic career, she wrote a number of historically based short stories that were included in many textbooks for elementary and high school. Matute wrote in multiple languages: her mother…tongue of Tagalog, her second language English, and also in Filipino when it became the national language,” it adds.

Google notes that “her writings are lauded for their contributions to Tagalog literature and Filipino cultural identity.”

Matute won at the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature — regarded as the Philippines’ equivalent of the Pulitzer Prize — four times, all for her short stories: first prize for “Ang Kuwento ni Mabuti” in 1951, third prize for “Pagbabalik” in 1952, first prize for “Paglalayag sa Puso ng Isang Bata” in 1955 and first prize for “Parusa” in 1961.

Among her writings, Matute is best known for “Ang Kuwento ni Mabuti,” which Google says “is the most anthologized short

story in the…Tagalog language and is still read to Filipino school children of all ages.”

She had published several books, including Ako’y Isang Tinig: Katipunan ng mga Piling Maikling Katha at Sanaysay, Ang Kanilang Mga Sugat, Piling Maikling Kuwento: 1939-1992, Babae at Iba Pang Kuwento, Sa Anino ng EDSA at Iba Pang Mga Kuwento and None of the Bitter: The Short Stories and Essays in English.

For her contributions to literature, the Cultural Center of the Philippines bestowed on Matute its Gawad Para sa Sining in 1992, praising her for “elevating the standards of the Tagalog short story and in forging a national identity through the active promotion of Filipino.”

The author taught at the Philippine Normal College (now called Philippine Normal University) for many years before retiring as dean of its Filipino department in 1980.

Matute passed away on March 21, 2009 at age 94. n

Newsom signs new laws addressing housing... ing people in order to raise the rent for new tenants.

Newsom signed the bill in October in an event in Oakland, a city that has reported a 43% increase in homelessness over the past two years. The law does not apply to housing built within the last 15 years or single-family homes not owned by corporations or trusts.

Additionally, another law prohibits landlords from discriminating against renters who rely on Section 8 vouchers to partially pay for their rent.

Newsom, a vocal proponent of firearm safety laws, signed multiple gun control bills as an effort to reduce gun violence.

In a new “red flag” law, teachers, school administrators, and employers could now ask courts to seize guns from people who pose a danger to themselves or the public.

The law passed the state Legislature in early September as a response to the recent mass

shootings and acts as an expansion of California’s restraining order law that previously only allowed family members and law enforcement to ask the courts for firearm seizure.

Additionally, people banned from possessing or purchasing a gun in another state will no longer be allowed to possess or purchase one in California, and only Californians aged 21 and older will be allowed to purchase semi-automatic rifles.

As the national reckoning of the #MeToo movement continues to unfold, California has now suspended the statute of limitations for three years, allowing survivors of sexual abuse the chance to pursue prosecution against their alleged abusers.

The law also expands the statute of limitations for childhood victims, meaning that victims will have until the age of 40 (or five years from the time that the abuse was made known) to file civil lawsuits. n

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 4-7, 2020

A

Pope apologizes for losing patience Reports of patients’ deaths linked to...

by RobeRtzon

RamiRez

Philstar.com

VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis apologized on Wednesday, January 1, for slapping a woman who had grabbed him as he greeted a crowd of devotees, shortly before he delivered a speech denouncing “every form of violence against women.”

The image of a visibly annoyed Francis slapping his way free from the clutches of an admirer as he walked by Catholic faithful on New Year’s Eve instantly went viral on social media.

A personal apology followed.

“We lose patience many times,” Francis confessed.

“It happens to me too. I apologize for the bad example given yesterday,” the head of the Catholic Church said before celebrating mass at the Vatican.

Twitter enthusiasts commented on the pontiff’s prompt riposte to the exuberant woman.

Francis had greeted children before the Nativity scene on Saint Peter’s Square and was turning away when a woman, who had crossed herself then cried out something, yanked his hand and almost caused him to fall.

The 83-year-old pope grimaced and scowled before managing to break free, slapping her hand twice as a security guard intervened.

The pontiff continued his tour, walking with some difficulty while maintaining a slightly greater distance from visitors, and gradually relaxed again as he met with other children.

Twitter comments revealed some support for his instinctive reaction.

“I’m not a Catholic, but the woman is wrong. It even seemed as if the pope experienced pain at one moment,” one comment read.

“He is human... (Being) a pope doesn’t make you immune to pain or avoid reaction to pain,” another comment read.

Others were less favorable, however.

“Yikes. She was totally wrong but his reaction was not very pope-like,” another commented.

In his first mass of the New Year, the pontiff later declared that “every form of violence against women is a blasphemy against God, who was born of a woman.”

He noted that the service traditionally celebrates the life of Mary, “the woman who wove the

Pope Francis

humanity of God.” The blessing of God for all, he said, was “not magic but requires patience, patience and love.”

The pontiff then repeated “patience and love” in a comment that was not contained in a text distributed to media ahead of time and which seemed to be his reaction to what had occurred the night before.

The pope is known to enjoy greeting the public, and also has a reputation for speaking his mind and having a determined temperament.

Francis emphasized Wednesday that women were the “sources of life” and deplored that they were “continually insulted, beaten, raped, forced to prostitute themselves and to suppress the life they bear in the womb.”

He underscored that in the Christian faith, “from a woman was born the Prince of Peace,” and bemoaned that women’s bodies were “sacrificed on the profane altars of advertising, of profiteering, of pornography.”

‘Be humble’ With the pope’s apology,Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo urged the Filipino people to be more like the pontiff who is humble and honest enough to acknowledge hismistakes.

“We can see honesty of the pope. He is as human as anyone of us. He also loses his composure, but he is humble and honest enough to accept his mistake and he apologizes.

We should do the same when we make mistakes,” Pabillo said.

Fr. Jerome Secillano, executive secretary of the public affairs committee of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), echoed Pabillo’s sentiment, sayingm that Francis had immediately realized his

Philstar.com photo

mistake. Secillano urged the Catholic faithful to pray for Pope Francis and for the Catholic Church.

‘Wrong’ papal behavior While some faithful have defended Pope Francis for slapping the overzealous woman’s hand, the pontiff’s misdemeanor did not sit well with a Filipino Catholic priest.

Father Ranhilio Aquino said on Facebook that he was disappointed by how the pope reacted to the well-wisher who only wanted to hold his hand. But Aquino emphasized that he will remain compliant to the teaching of Pope Francis despite his “very wrong” behavior.

“I love Pope Francis, and I shall remain docile to his teaching … but what he did was very wrong, wringing a woman’s hand and slapping her on the wrist… and all she wanted was to hold the pope’s hand,” Aquino said.

“I thought a shepherd was supposed to ‘smell like the sheep.’ So why is the pope afraid to be touched, hugged, pulled, tugged by his people? Is that not the way children deal with their father? I was disappointed with Pope Francis over this incident, televised globally,” he added. A short video of a visibly disgruntled Pope Francis is making the rounds online after he was spotted slapping a woman’s hand that wished to touch the pontiff while shaking hands with some children in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on New Year’s Eve. The video also showed that the papal security guards failed to control the situation. Aquino said that Francis should dismantle his security guards “for the sake of his credibility” as he was elected to the top church post to gamble his life for the Catholic faithful. n

PAGE A3 t a year after the valve was implanted. It and a competing, similar valve have since been approved for use in younger, healthier patients.

The quarterly summary reports filed with the FDA note hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries. They say the “anonymized” registry data did not have enough information for Medtronic to determine whether the event was previously reported to the company or the FDA’s public deviceinjury database called MAUDE. The spreadsheet sent straight to the FDA includes “observations related to patient deaths.”

Medtronic filed far fewer standalone public device-death reports, about 900, many summarizing valve-related deaths mentioned in published research. While device companies are required to report patient deaths to the FDA if they have enough information to investigate, doctors are not explaining some of the reporting gap.

Medtronic said in a statement that it strives to eliminate malfunctions in all of its devices, but, when they occur, “we make every effort to inform regulators, the healthcare community and the public in a timely … manner.”

The company said about 40% of deaths reported from the registry data list no cause, so it’s unclear if they were related to the device.

The maker of the competing device approved in 2011, the Sapien 3 Transcatheter valve, also files death reports under the registry exemption. Edwards Lifesciences filed spreadsheets since 2016 reflecting 2,400 death incidents and individual reports on about 400 deaths.

Edwards’ reports describe possible device-related deaths in patients who had too little or too much calcification in their hearts or whose deaths were attributed to fragility and age. Edwards also notes in its summary filings that “device information is not included in the data received from the registry.”

Edwards spokeswoman Sarah Huoh said that 600,000 patients worldwide have benefited from transcatheter valve surgery. She noted that the Sapien 3 valve used in healthier, younger patients showed a “remarkably low” 1% death or disabling stroke rate a year after surgery.

Dr. Steven Nissen, chief academic officer at the Cleveland Clinic, said the number of deaths is not alarming, given the frailty of

the patients initially undergoing the procedures. But he said the underlying data sent to the FDA should be open.

“To understand safety of devices, we need to have access to all of the data,” he said.

The valve business is brisk and growing, with much of the money coming from the taxpayer-funded Medicare program. Edwards reported $700 million in sales for one quarter of this year for its Sapien valves and predicts a $7 billion market in 2024.

In all, the FDA said it has granted registry exemptions to six devices tracked in three registries.

Makers of the MitraClip, which is also threaded in a catheter to clip together flaps in the heart, have filed spreadsheets reflecting more than 500 deaths.

The FDA said it has also given the registry exemption for a cardiac device called the Watchman and to Medtronic’s Valiant Thoracic Stent Graft and a Medtronic catheter used to reopen blocked leg arteries. n

A January 4-7, 2020 • La WEEKEnD aSIan JOurnaL

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Dateline PPHhiliPPines to stop sending workers to Kuwait

Palace: Duterte won’t meddle with ABS-CBN franchise renewal

doctrine of salum est suprema lex (The welfare of the people is the supreme law),” Panelo said in a President rodrigo duterte statement. will not interfere with the franHis statement was in response chise renewal of major television to senator Leila de Lima’s statenetwork ABs-CBn, Malacañang ment that Congress’ right to grant said on Friday, January 3. a legislative franchise should not this is because Congress has be based on the “personal whims the prerogative to grant the net- of a madman.” work’s franchise, according to “it is apparent that these atPresidential spokesperson sal- tacks against the ABs-CBn is just vador Panelo. part of a bigger, systematic effort “the president will not inter- to subjugate Filipino companies fere with that prerogative unless under the political interests operthere is an evident and brazen ating through Malacañang, both grave abuse of its authority that local and foreign,” she said. imperils the very life of the state Over the years, duterte has as well as such abuse not only been vocal about his stance contravenes the rights of the against the network giant. people but its general welfare is He claimed ABs-CBn “swinlikewise put at risk following the dled” him by not airing his paid

by aJPress

political advertisements during the 2016 presidential campaign as well as warned it to sell the network because getting its franchise renewed by the Congress was unlikely.

ABs-CBn’s current franchise was approved through republic Act no. 7966 on March 30, 1995. it is set to expire on March 30, 2020. de Lima noted that the Congress’ decision on ABs-CBn’s franchise would serve as a “litmus test” for the lawmakers’ commitment to free press and democracy.

ABs-CBn should “stand firm against these despotic attacks and remain confident of their crucial role in our democracy,” the detained senator noted. n

Manila Bay restoration to continue – DENR

by Lisbet

esmaeL ManilaTimes.net

tHe department of environment and natural resources (denr) vowed that the restoration of Manila Bay would continue until 2022. environment secretary roy Cimatu said rehabilitation efforts remain in “full swing” almost a year after the government began the clean-up program. “[W]e hope to sustain the momentum of restoring it to its for-

mer glory in the coming years,” he said in a statement. the official said the government aims to make Manila Bay “fit again for swimming and other forms of contact recreation.” the department said the first phase of the program is the bay’s clean-up and water quality monitoring. the next two phases will involve relocation and rehabilitation, and education, protection and sustainment.

As of september 2019, the denr’s environmental Management Bureau and the Laguna Lake development Authority had inspected 9,708 commercial establishments around Manila Bay. Of this number, 2,478 were issued notices of violations and 107 were slapped with cease and desist orders. since the rehabilitation started in January, the denr said close to 70,000 volunteers have collected over 2.3 million kilograms of waste. n

by reina

toLentino

ManilaTimes.net

tHe department of Labor and employment (dOLe) will declare a partial ban on the deployment of household workers to Kuwait, Labor secretary silvestre Bello iii said.

Bello said the partial deployment ban would not cover returning workers, skilled workers and professionals.

He said the partial ban was recommended by Labor Attache nasser Mustafa as Kuwaiti authorities are investigating the killing of Jeanelyn Villavende.

Based on preliminary reports submitted by Mustafa of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Kuwait, Villevende was beaten to death. she was already dead when brought to a hospital. Attending nurses reported that she was “black and blue.”

Villavende’s family last talked to her in October. On december 13, the family again called Jeanelyn but her female employer said she was busy. the exact date of Villavende’s death has yet to be determined.

Her employer has been detained in Kuwait. “this should serve as a clear message to Kuwaiti authorities. the partial ban may ripen into total deployment ban if justice for Jeanelyn Villavende is not met,” Bello said.

“We will also ask Villavende’s recruitment agency to explain their inaction. As early as september, she already complained about maltreatment and underpayment of salary. she also repeatedly requested the agency for repatriation, but they did not do anything,” he added.

Malacañang on Wednesday,

January 1, expressed outrage over Villavende’s death, saying it was “a clear disregard” of the agreement between the Philippines and Kuwait. “the Palace expresses its outrage over the death of Filipino worker, Jeanelyn Padernal Villavende, allegedly in the hands of her female employer who is now in the custody of Kuwaiti authorities,” Palace spokesman salvador Panelo said.

“We consider Jeanelyn’s tragic death a clear disregard of the agreement signed by both our country and Kuwait in 2018 which seeks to uphold and promote the protection of the rights and welfare of our workers in Kuwait,” he added.

At the House of representatives, rep. enrico Pineda sought an investigation of the possible violation of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Philippines and Kuwait.

Pineda said the MoA requires both countries to uphold ethical recruitment policies, systems, and procedures for the recruitment and employment of domestic workers subject to their laws and regulations. it also requires employers to provide food, housing and clothing to their workers; and for the countries to take legal action against erring employers.

“As chairman of the Committee on Labor and employment and likewise the senior vice chairman of the Overseas Workers Affairs Committee, i am pushing for our government to impose a deployment ban to Kuwait until we are satisfied with their government’s actions with respect to the death of Jeanelyn Villavende; until justice is served,” Pineda said. “if the Kuwaiti Government is actually concerned about our

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III ManilaTimes.net photo

workers, it should ensure that they are well protected. Because we will not allow our vulnerable Filipinos to be deployed to work in foreign lands without the assurance that the foreign state will give them the protection they need. i call upon all our government agencies to shed light on the matter so that Congress may act upon these issues and consider necessary legislation and policy direction,” he added.

ACt-Cis party-list rep. eric Go Yap said Villavende’s death was “a blatant disregard not only to the agreement between Kuwait and Philippines on OFW (overseas Filipino workers) welfare but to human dignity as a whole.” “dapat maparusahan ang gumawa nito sa ating kababayan at gumulong ang hustisya sa kasong ito (The perpetrators must be punished and justice must be served),” Yap said. n

Duterte set to sign P4.1 trillion 2020 budget

by Jess

Diaz Philstar.com

MAniLA — President rodrigo duterte will sign the Congressapproved P4.1-trillion national budget for this year on Monday, January 6. the Office of the President yesterday sent out invitations to leaders of the House of repreThe Department of Public and Works and Highways continues its dredging of the Manila Bay as part of its rehabilitation program.

ManilaTimes.net photo sentatives and the senate for the signing ceremonies set at 4 p.m. at the rizal Ballroom of Malacañang. dress code is “Filipiniana/ Barong.”

Among House leaders who received invitations are speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, several deputy speakers and davao City rep. isidro Ungab, who is appropriations committee chairman.

Cayetano earlier assured the President that there are no pork barrel fund insertions in the proposed budget. the House sent duterte an advance copy of the spending bill on dec. 23 to give him enough time to study it amid claims of sen. Panfilo Lacson that it contains “pork.” romero, who represents party-list group 1-Pacman, urged the government to ramp up spending “so we could sustain

the growth of the economy, which recovered in the third quarter after six months of anemic performance due to last year’s budget delay.”

As approved by the two chambers of Congress, the final version of the 2020 spending bill shows that among agencies, the department of Public Works and Highways will have the biggest share of the budget at P580.9 billion, which includes the largest augmentation of P51.1 billion. the department of education will have P521.4 billion, including an additional P1.7 billion. state universities and colleges will have P73.7 billion, which reflects an augmentation of more than P8 billion. the Commission on Higher education will have P46.7 billion, P7 billion more than what the President had proposed.

With the combined funding for educational institutions, the education sector still gets the largest share of the budget, as the Constitution mandates. the department of Health received the second largest amount of additional funds at P12 billion, increasing its budget to P101 billion, followed by the department of Agriculture

(dA), which was allocated P7.4 billion more, bringing its 2020 outlay to P62.3 billion. some P3 billion of the dA’s gain came from the palay-buying fund of the national Food Authority, which the senate reduced to P7 billion despite low palay prices. the department of social Welfare and development and department of information and Communications technology (diCt) also received huge augmentations of P5.4 billion and P6.2 billion, increasing their budgets to P163.8 billion and P9.9 billion, respectively. the diCt’s P6.2-billion increment is 170 percent its original funding of P3.7 billion. it’s the only agency that received such a huge gain, thanks to the senate. its secretary is former senator Gregorio Honasan.

Almost all departments were given additional funds, save for two, which suffered huge reductions. the department of transportation lost almost P47 billion, with its budget for next year down to P99.4 billion, while funding for the department of environment and natural resources was reduced by P500.7 million to P25.5 billion. n

Pangilinan calls for focus on climate crisis, food security in 2020

by Franco Luna Philstar.com

MAniLA — sen. Francis Pangilinan called for a sharpened focus in the areas of climate change and food security, citing higher prices triggered by trAin Law, low farmers’ incomes and the natural disasters that came at 2019’s end.

“Produksyon ng pagkain o ang pagsasaka at pangingisda ang mga unang naaapektuhan nito,” the senator said in a statement nigh, treferring to the global climate crisis. “sundin natin ang mga panawagan ng mga scientists na ibaba ang ating tinatawag na carbon footprint at bawasan ang polusyon (Food production or farming and fishing are the first things that this climate crisis affects. We should heed the calls of scientists to lower what we call our carbon footprint and lessen pollution).”

He also pointed to the rice tarriffication Law, which he said only doubled the existing burdens of rice farmers.

As of the fourth week of november 2019, data from the Philippine statistics Authority (PsA) recorded the average farmgate price of palay at P15.57 per kilo.

But farmers themselves have said that the actual price, particularly in far-flung areas, plunge to as low as P7 per kilo, much lower than their production cost of around P12.

data from the Us department of Agriculture-Foreign Agricultural service showed that the Philippines imported the most rice in the world even over China whose population is over a billion.

And according to a statement by the PsA in december, the Philippines is steadily relying more and more on food imports to ensure sufficient supply and to stabilize prices. economists, too, have said that the top-importer status was only an indication of the country stocking up and said that it should even out eventually. the senator also called for stricter policy in a number of areas, namely single-use plastic, rainwater management, urban agriculture, organic farming, solid waste importation, food waste reduction, electric and hybrid vehicles incentives, national mangrove forest protection, expanded crop insurance, post-harvest facilities, among others.

A 2015 report by the Ocean Conservancy and McKinsey Center for Business and environment on plastic pollution ranked the Philippines as the third-biggest source of plastic waste in the oceans just after China and indonesia.

Pangilinan has filed a bill to ban single-use plastics. the single-Use Plastics regulation and Management Bill bans food establishments, stores, markets, and retailers

from issuing single-use plastic items.

On the front of solid waste management, the department of environment and natural resources in 2019 penned a policy looking to temporarily ban all waste imports entering the country. this, while the national Mangrove Forest Protection and Preservation Act of 2019 is listed as pending in the committee level as of July 24, 2019. typhoon tisoy (international name Kammuri) which came in the first week of december 2019, brought with it agricultural damages amounting to P2.097 billion, while those of typhoon Ursula (international name Phanfone) stood at over P1 billion.

Farmers affected by the rice tarriffication Law say that the law’s rice Competitiveness enhancement Fund (rCeF) and related programs from the government did litte to alleviate their circumstances.

Last August, Bantay Bigas spokesperson and Amihan secretary-General Cathy estavillo said that the fund seemed to only exist “[t]o show that there is government support to affected rice farmers.” sen. risa Hontiveros last december also urged the administration to include rice infrastructure initiatives in the Build, Build, Build flagship program to ease strains on the agriculture sector. n

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 4-7, 2020

A

De Lima drawing up ‘more detailed’ list of accusers, jailers

MANILA — Senator Leila de Lima is drawing up a “more comprehensive” and “more detailed” list of Philippine officials and personalities she believes are responsible for her arrest and detention, her chief of staff and lawyer said Thursday, January 2.

“I know that there is a list. I know that there is a comprehensive list being drawn up by the senator…meron pong more comprehensive, more detailed list si Senator De Lima,” lawyer Fhillip Sawali said in an interview with CNN Philippines’ “The Source.”

“It’s quite long and very meticulous po si Senator De Lima.

Each and every entry po dun, CLEANER PARK. With trash left by New Year’s eve revelers properly thrown in their proper bins, Rizal Park in Manila was a much cleaner she saw to it na may justificasurrounding just hours after the celebration of New Year, thanks to a stricter anti-littering measures being implemented by the Manila City tion,” he added but opted not to government.

Inquirer.net photo divulge further details regarding the list.

This came after the approval of the U.S. 2020 National Budget that included a provision banning U.S. entry to Philippine officials proven to be involved in the senator’s “wrong imprison-

BI tells registered foreigners: Comply with annual report or face sanctions days of every calendar year.

Failure to do so may may result in fines, visa cancelation, or MANILA — The Bureau of deportation.

Registered aliens may report Immigration (BI) on Thursday, January 2, reminded all regis- to the bureau’s main office in Intered foreigners in the country to tramuros, Manila or the nearest report to the bureau in person or participating BI field, satellite or face sanctions for failing to com- extension office.

The list of BI offices can be acply.

In a statement, Immigration cessed at their website www.imCommissioner Jaime Morente migration.gov.ph, Morente said.

“Foreigners who are out of said foreign nationals can make their annual report to the agency the country during the annual from the beginning of January reporting period may make the 2020 until the end of February report within 30 days from the date of their return to the counthis year.

Under the 1950 Alien Regis- try, provided they have valid tration Act, all foreigners who re-entry permits,” Morente have been issued immigrant and added.

According to BI alien regisnon-immigrant visas and were issued alien certificate of regis- tration division chief Jose Carlitration identity card (ACR I-Card) tos Licas, registered foreigners are mandated to comply with the must present his original ACR annual report within the first 60 I-Card and valid passport as well

by Christia

Marie Inquirer.net

raMos

as pay a P300-annual report fee and P10-legal research fee.

For aliens below the age of 14, Licas said their parent or guardian can make the report for them.

Meanwhile, senior citizens and persons with disability are exempted from personal appearance, he noted.

But they are required to submit a Special Power of Attorney for their representative, he added.

Licas then urged foreigners to make their report early and avoid the deadline rush.

He pointed out that there are ample time for aliens to comply with the reportorial requirement.

“The deadline is not extendible as the law clearly provides that the report should last only for 60 days,” he stressed. n

Palace: Duterte’s feeling unwell, no big thing by reina Leanne

toLentino

ManilaTimes.net

Malacañang on Thursday, January 2, said there was nothing to worry about President Rodrigo Duterte’s health, despite the cancellation of a visit to earthquake victims.

The visit was scheduled on Thursday but it was deferred with Palace spokesman Salva-

dor Panelo saying Duterte was a bit under the weather.

“Masama lang siguro pakiramdam. Ordinary naman iyon,” Panelo said in a press briefing Thursday.

Panelo said the President’s condition was not serious, and that it was ordinary for a 74year-old to sometimes feel unwell.

Among Duterte’s last public

activities was a visit to pediatric cancer patients in Davao City last December 28.

Last Monday, he led the commemoration of Rizal Day in Davao City, visited earthquake victims in M’lang in Cotabato, and went to Digos City in Davao del Sur to lead the turnover of financial assistance to earthquake-stricken areas in the province. n

DA sees decline in ASF cases in Philippines MANILA — While there has been a decline in the reported cases of African swine fever in the country, the outbreak declaration for the dreaded hog disease cannot be lifted yet.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar stressed this in a press briefing on Friday, January 3, noting ASF cases are still reported in Bulacan and Pampanga.

“Talagang bumaba na ‘yung incidence but andyan pa and that’s why we cannot declare na ASF-free na tayo (The incidence

has really gone down but it’s still there and that’s why we cannot declare that we are ASF-free),” Dar said.

He added: “Bulacan, Pampanga andyan pa ang problema (The problem is still in Bulacan and Pampanga).”

The first ASF outbreak in the Philippines was confirmed in July 2019.

According to the World Health Organization, an outbreak is the occurrence of one or more cases in an epidemiological unit.

At least 62,000 pigs have been culled since the first ASF outbreak was confirmed in the country.

Dar said the agency is continuously enforcing the “1-7-10” protocol and tightened airport and seaport inspections to control ASF from spreading in the country.

While ASF is harmless to humans, the disease causes high fever and internal bleeding in pigs, almost always killing the animal within weeks. (Philstar.com)

Duterte willing to review Kaliwa Dam deal – Palace by reina Leanne

toLentino ManilaTimes.net

President Rodrigo Duterte is willing to review the Kaliwa Dam deal, Malacañang said on Thursday, January 2.

“Oo (Yes). That goes without saying. Ang presidente naman, basta may nag-point out sa kanya na merong onerous provision tinitingnan kaagad iyon. Kung nakaligtas man iyon doon sa mga dapat tumingin, siya mismo titingnan niya iyan (The President reviews contracts when somebody claims these have onerous provisions. If these were overlooked by those who made first scrutiny, he himself

takes a look),” Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a press briefing.

“Eh kung makita ni Presidenteng one sided, ‘di pareho rin nung sa water, ‘di ba, ayaw niya ng onerous provisions (If the president sees that it is one-sided, it’s the same as the water contracts. He loathes onerous provisions),” Panelo said.

He was referring to the contracts with Manila Water Co, Inc. and Maynilad Water Services Inc., which the President slammed for being onerous.

The China-funded Kaliwa Dam project will be constructed in Rizal and Quezon provinces.

It seeks to boost the water sup-

ply in Metro Manila.

The president had said that the construction of the Kaliwa Dam and the Wawa Dam would help ease the water problem in Metro Manila.

“I will order them to go ahead and we will pay the natives and we will relocate them,” he said in a speech in Digos, Davao del Sur on December 30.

Duterte also warned courts not to issue restraining orders against the dam project.

“Do not make it to the point na sabihin ko (that I will say) ‘ignore them,’” he added.

Some groups have opposed the Kaliwa Dam project, saying it would displace indigenous peoples and flood vast areas. n

Locsin, new Chinese envoy discuss project opportunities for 2020

by Christia

Marie Inquirer.net

raMos

MANILA — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. started off the year with a visit to the residence of new Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian and discussed a wide-range of issues, including oil and gas development as well as major infrastructure projects.

In a statement on Friday, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said “both sides expressed satisfaction on the development of China-Philippines relations during the past year” during Locsin’s

visit to Huang’s residence on Thursday, January 2.

The two diplomats also expressed confidence that the bilateral relations between the Philippine and China “would embrace new development opportunities” this year.

The year 2020 marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two Asian countries.

The embassy also noted that the two ministers discussed a wide-range of and “agreed to work jointly in the spirit of ‘seizing the day and living it to the full’ to push for further substantive progress in bilateral coop-

eration across the board.”

Huang arrived in the Philippines last December 3. He replaced Zhao Jinhua who started his five-year stint as ambassador to Manila in 2014 at the height of a maritime dispute between the Philippines and China over the South China Sea. Zhao’s duty as Chinese ambassador to the Philippines came to a close as Manila and Beijing forged warmer ties under the Duterte administration.

Upon his arrival in the Philippines, Beijing’s new top diplomat in Manila said the “best is yet to come” for the bilateral relations between the two countries. n

Senator Leila De Lima

ment.”

Under the said provision, the “Secretary of State shall apply subsection (c) to foreign government officials about whom the Secretary has credible information have been involved in the wrongful imprisonment

Inquirer.net photo

of… Senator Leila De Lima, who was arrested in the Philippines in 2017.”

The subsection (c) referred to is the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act of the United States.

u PAGE A9

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A8 JANUARY 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

OPINION

Challenges

FEATURES

AFTER the revelry, it’s time to buckle down to work.

The past year presented new challenges that must be confronted in 2020. On the public health front, the country recorded hundreds of deaths from measles and the return of polio after 19 years. For the first time, the country also registered the fastest rate of HIV infection in the world.

There are now two laws to prevent the spread of HIV and discrimination against persons living with HIV / AIDS. The challenge is their efficient implementation – which also goes for the Universal Health Care and mental health laws.

On another health issue, the country saw the arrival of African swine fever in 2019. The ASF threat continues to inflict damage on the local swine industry and needs tighter management.

Also needing urgent attention on the food front are the country’s rice farmers, who saw their livelihood devastated in 2019 by rice tariffication that allowed unlimited rice importation. While consumers welcomed the lower rice prices, the country cannot afford to be overly dependent on imports of its staple.

For the first time last year, the country’s 15-yearolds joined the Program for International Student Assessment. The PISA results were disheartening, with the Filipinos ranking last out of 79 nationalities in reading comprehension and 78th in

mathematics and science. This is a continuing challenge for improvement.

Even the country’s top ranking in the 30th Southeast Asian Games poses the challenge of sustaining the exemplary performance in bigger competitions particularly the Olympics. There must also be accountability in the hosting arrangements as well as efforts to ensure that the Olympic Village in New Clark City won’t turn into a white elephant.

In Metro Manila, 2019 saw an acute water shortage and a persistent traffic mess that call for multipronged solutions, with the necessary infrastructure taking years to complete. Build, Build, Build must move faster this year to make up for the delay caused by congressional bickering over the 2019 national budget.

In 2019, Philippine offshore gaming operators created problems that the government must address with a clear policy on online gambling and the employment of foreigners. Related to this, the government must heed public sentiment, as ex-

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

pressed in surveys, for a stronger assertion of the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea. There are the continuing problems – the communist insurgency, Islamist extremism that now employs suicide bombers, a weak and compro-

mised judicial system that makes law enforcement shortcuts acceptable to ordinary people. The war on drugs is being recalibrated as the scourge persists. There is much work ahead; at the start of the year, everyone must hit the ground running. (Philstar.com)

American TNTs in the Philippines?

Street Talk GREG B. MACABENTA THE term ‘Tago Nang Tago’ (TNT) refers to Pinoys in the U.S. who are hiding from immigration officials because of their illegal status. This year, TNT may also mean U.S. citizens hiding from Philippine immigration officials because they are in the country illegally.

In this regard, U.S. Senators Patrick Leahy and Richard Durbin should not attempt to enter the Philippines at all. President Rodrigo Duterte has reportedly put the two senators on the immigration watch list and they will be turned back and placed on the next flight to the U.S. if they attempt to enter the Philippines.

The two were primarily responsible for inserting a rider in the 2020 national budget that the U.S. Congress recently passed, and which President Trump signed. The rider bans those who were involved in the ‘wrongful imprisonment of Senator Leila De Lima from entering the U.S. Incensed, Duterte has ordered Leahy and Durbin banned from

the Philippines and has threatened to cancel the no-visa travel privilege for U.S. citizens and to require them to secure visas to enter the Philippines.

There is no truth to the rumor that Leahy and Durbin plan to become TNT in the Philippines.

However, Duterte’s bright idea will affect Pinoys who have become naturalized U.S. citizens and have not regained or retained Philippine citizenship.

While the U.S. State Department has not yet issued a list of persons to be banned, De Lima appears to have cast a wide net, including Duterte himself.

“My persecution started with a daily public media demolition by none other than [Rodrigo] Duterte, using all his powers as President,” De Lima said, as quoted in the media. “This was followed by a vicious social media campaign conducted by DDS Trolls, led by Duterte sycophants Mocha Uson, Sass Rogando Sasot, and RJ Nieto. Then came the House investigation where criminal convicts were induced to testify against me in exchange for prison privileges and immunity, if not presidential pardon, as led by former Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, former DOJ Secre-

tary Vitaliano Aguirre, Solicitor General Jose Calida, PAO Chief Persida Acosta, Sandra Cam, Dante Jimenez, Congressmen Rey Umali, and Rudy Fariñas.”

Apparently, being banned from entering the U.S. is of great concern for Philippine officials. Aside from missing the attractions of Disneyland and the shopping delights in New York and on Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles, there is the problem of being denied access to bank accounts, real estate and other unexplained assets hidden in the U.S. This was worrisome enough for Rep. Rudy Fariñas, resulting in the following headline in GMA News: “Fariñas denies involvement in De Lima’s arrest.

Fariñas insisted that he was not involved in De Lima’s arrest, and unjust detention.

“I only participated in the congressional inquiry which she snubbed, but didn’t even get arrested for such,” Fariñas said.

“We only filed a case for disobedience to a subpoena issued by Congress, for which she has not been imprisoned as such offense is bailable and carries only light penalties.”

Fariñas’ denial isn’t too con-

vincing. A Rappler story reported: “Ilocos Norte Representative Rodolfo Fariñas, Capiz Representative Fredenil Castro, 1-Ang Edukasyon Representative Salvador Belaro Jr, and Kabayan Representative Harry Roque all asked inane questions that ranged from whether what Dayan and De Lima had was ‘true love’ to when the two entered the[GM1] “climax” of their relationship.

Their sexual innuendoes were too orgasmic to be missed.

The folks at my favorite watering hole in Daly City have been quick to address this issue.

“Remember how we had to wake up at dawn to fall in line at the U.S. embassy in Manila to apply for a U.S. visa?” says Pete from behind the bar.

Others quickly join the conversation: “Remember how we had to gather all the documents proving that we had assets in the Philippines and would have no reason to want to remain in the U.S. after our visa had expired?” ”And remember how being denied a visa was like the end of the world for us?”

“Well, the shoe is on the other foot,” concludes George who

had experienced a denial by a U.S. consul who, he said, must have gotten out of the wrong side of the bed.

George has friends at the Philippine consulate. “I can hardly wait to see them interview visa applicants who want to visit the Philippines. Sana pahirapan din nila (I hope they give them a hard time).” ”You don’t actually believe that the consulate will give them a hard time, do you?” cuts in Rudy, a travel agent, “As it is, I can’t get enough tourists to visit the Philippines. If the government adds on visa restrictions we might have no tourists at all.”

“Why would anyone want to visit the Philippines in the first place?” asks Doming, who used to live in Smokey Mountain in Tondo.

“To see the sights. To have fun. To enjoy bargains. Great food. Nice beaches. Festivals.

Beautiful and hospitable people.

Everything that a tourist wants,” says Dinah who works as an assistant of the tourism attaché.

And then Dinah admits: “Sa tutuo lang (in truth) we have to work our butts off persuading people to include the Philippines

in their travel plans. It’s just as much fun in other destinations and cheaper.”

“Well, I go to the Philippines to visit friends and relatives,” says Paul. “And my wife and I are planning to retire in the province. I can live a comfortable life on my small social security pension.”

“Filipinos have many reasons to visit the Philippines. Even those of us who are already Americans,” agrees Pete. “But if the government makes it difficult for us to go home, maybe we will not be motivated.”

Paul cuts in. “But we will still visit the Philippines, whether Duterte likes it or not. The Philippine consular offices would be stupid to deny visas to people who want to visit the country.

And once there, do you think anyone will bother to arrest you for being an illegal alien? There are thousands of Chinese illegals there and the Duterte government is encouraging more. Tayo pa kayang mga dugong Pinoy (What’s more with full-blooded Pinoys)?”

“That’s a big joke, isn’t it?” cracks Jimmy while nursing his beer. “Imagine, American TNTs

u PAGE A9

Duterte consistent in his inconsistency

Postscript

FEDERICO PASCUAL JR. PRESIDENT Duterte does not always play by the same rules for similar situations, rendering many of his statements and actions puzzling to those who try to guess his game plan.

His inconsistency may be deliberate like that of a boxer feinting to catch the opponent off guard. Or it could be the result of his having no firmly held principles guiding him. Or is it because he now has a hard time remembering things?

As we enter a new year, again brimming with optimism, we hope it is just the first possibility — that his inconsistency is part of his style of throwing ruses, of testing ideas on the public, to confuse his foes and gain an opening to land the next blow.

We dread the probability that his inconsistency springs from his lack of principled moorings (for a president leading a nation of 105+ million?) or his inability to keep track of what he has said and done in his 20-year-plus po-

litical life.

Duterte broke ground when, upon becoming president in 2016, he announced his separation from the Philippines’ longtime allies in the West (generally meaning the United States and its Caucasian coterie) to chart an “independent” foreign policy.

The inconsistency is that his new orientation, announced with fanfare in a foreign capital, hardly looked as independent as advertised but dangerously tilted to the left — toward communist China.

(He also muttered something about his dream of forming a Beijing-Moscow-Manila axis, which was a laughable unbalanced configuration that Malacañang must now be trying hard to forget and erase from the public mind.)

His pivot to Beijing, we understand, was a result of his study of diplomacy, geopolitics and all those electives in college that has taught him the pernicious effects of being too close to the U.S., which in his mind continued to influence Philippine policy for neo-colonialist ends.

His rough brushes with US officials, including the then Ameri-

can ambassador in Manila who had to be pulled out, helped feed a resentment that has warped his attitude. Only the election of Republican President Trump prevented his total slide to the cliff on the left.

It is inconsistent for Duterte and his minions to denounce U.S. interference in domestic affairs (e.g. the pressure to free or speed up the trial of Sen. Leila De Lima), while playing mute and blind to the aggressive Chinese intrusion into the country’s maritime areas.

His spokesman said if the U.S. bars Filipino officials linked to De Lima’s detention, American visitors will be required, tit for tat, to first secure Philippine visas.

When asked about Fil-Ams, he said they were exempted. What if they have been naturalized and hold only U.S. passports?

Why the love affair with China?

WE TRY to understand Duterte’s cozying up to Beijing as born out of a desire to secure massive Chinese aid, loans and investments to prop up his ambitious buildup program. But we continue to be bothered by the country’s being led to what

looks like a debt trap.

As Duterte’s contracts with China also contain “onerous” provisions (the same adjective he uses in denouncing water concessions approved by prior administrations), do they also face possible revocation now that he has put in question the sanctity of contracts in these parts?

Some of his contracts have in effect hocked to China valuable and strategic patrimonial assets, a tricky trail leading to a trap.

They also require arbitration, in case of disputes, before a tribunal in Beijing controlled by a Chinese majority.

In the case of the water distribution contracts that are being denounced by Duterte, neither the government nor the private concessionaires are represented in the arbitration courts in Singapore that had ruled on the disputes. Yet he questions their fairness after the fact.

We wonder if Duterte’s inconsistency on the matter has something to do with his unabashed pushing for the possible takeover of the waterworks and sewerage system in Metro Manila by a billionaire campaign donor

who owns a water-processing facility.

On the franchise of broadcast giant ABS-CBN, Duterte earlier feigned a hands-off attitude on its renewal. That was correct PR, because the process starts with the Congress with the final paperwork being sent to the President for his approval/veto.

By his statements lately, however, it is clear that Duterte has prejudged the case. He not only announced that the Lopez family controlling ABS-CBN cannot expect a franchise renewal but must get ready to sell it.

Why does he not sue them if there were violations or crimes committed as he has alleged instead of going after the Lopezes with presidential vengeance?

Duterte sounded like has a ready buyer of ABS-CBN, which would not be surprising as in the case of his threatening to declare the water concession contracts void ab initio and turning over operations, first to the military, then to the new contractors.

Like Ferdinand Marcos who declared martial law 45 years before him, Duterte has raised the oligarchy bogey, blaming the rich and powerful for hot

issues swirling around media, public utilities and much of the country’s socio-economic problems.

But unlike Marcos who staged in 1972 a coup from the center by citing an alleged conspiracy of the oligarchs on the right and the communists on the left, Duterte has not linked the oligarchs to the communist rebels, who still seem to have been given the benefit of his doubt.

Consistently inconsistent, he has been pushing away the old oligarchs while embracing newly minted oligarchs who have the watermarks of presidential cronies.

Inconsistencies are to be expected in a president who appears, despite his more than two decades in government, largely to be still groping for moral moorings to guide him.

With the phasing in of a new year, we earnestly hope President Duterte will find the True North before he loses his way.

(Philstar.com) *** NOTA BENE: All Postscripts can be accessed at manilamail.com. Follow author on Twitter as @FDPascual. Email feedback to dikpascual@gmail.com.

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARy 4-7, 2020

A

‘Ninja cops’ probe conclusion seen this month

by EmmanuEl

Tupas

Philstar.com

MANILA — The National Police Commission (Napolcom) may complete its probe of “ninja cops” or police officers involved in the recycling of seized prohibited drugs by month’s end, an official announced.

Napolcom vice chairman Rogelio Casurao said they are just waiting for the affidavits of the policemen implicated in the controversy.

“By the end of January, we will have a decision,” Casurao said in a phone interview.

The controversy forced forFIRECRACKER INJURY UPDATE. Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III (seated 2nd from left) reports a 35-percent decrease in fireworksrelated injuries from 251 cases in 2018 during a press conference on Wednesday, January 1 at the East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City. From Dec. 21, 2019 to Jan. 1 2020, a total of 164 fireworks-related injuries were reported.

PNA photo by Gil Calinga

PH still under NPA, terror threats – Palace by nEsTor

CorralEs Inquirer.net

MANILA — Even with the lifting of martial law in Mindanao, the entire Philippines remains under a “state of national emergency” because of the continuing threat of the communist rebels and terrorist groups, Malacañang said on Friday, January 3.

Duterte signed Proclamation No. 55 or the state of national emergency on September 2016, two days after the bombing of a night market in Davao City, which killed 14 people.

“The [state of national emergency] should remain imposed and strictly observed by the AFP and PNP to ensure the maintenance of law and order in all other parts of the country given that there remains the communist insurgency to reckon with, as well as there is yet a terrorist organization resurrecting to be

PAGE A8

crushed,” presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

“The Office of the President asks the citizenry for their usual cooperation, even as we assure them that the government will not allow any abuse of their fundamental civil and political rights during this state of national emergency,” he added.

Panelo said that under Article 7, Section 18 of the 1987 Constitution, the President, as the Commander-in-Chief, has “three extraordinary powers,” which is “to call out the armed forces, to place any part of the country under martial law and to suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus.”

He said Proclamation No. 55 was issued pursuant to the calling out power of the President.

The proclamation, he said, “commanded the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the

Philippine National Police (PNP) to undertake such measures to suppress any and all forms of lawless violence in Mindanao and to prevent the same from spreading and escalating elsewhere in the Philippines.”

“While this calling out power is contained in the same provision which sanctions the imposition of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, the same is unique in that it can be used independently without the participation of Congress and its actual use cannot be subjected to judicial review unless constitutional boundaries are violated,” he said.

“Therefore, as long as the president deems it necessary to prevent or suppress lawless violence, invasion, or rebellion (such as at present times), then he is lawfully authorized to resort to this calling out power,” he added. n

American TNTs in the Philippines?

in the Philippines!”

Someone speaks up from one of the tables. It is Ramon, a media man, “But you must admit, the Philippines has a right to require visas from visitors to the country. Did you know that if you are a U.S. citizen, you need a visa to visit Vietnam? But Pinoys don’t need a visa to go there.”

“I understand the reason Duterte dislikes America is be-

cause he was denied a visa when he wanted to visit his girlfriend in the U.S.,” Pete says mischievously.

“Tsismis lang iyan (That’s just gossip),” says Rudy with a laugh.

“But, the fact is, Philippine officials have more reason to want to come to America. Ask their wives and kids.”

And then Rudy adds, amusedly. “According to a social media post, Mocha Uson, who is an as-

sistant in the Malacañang press office and is included in De Lima’s blacklist, is not worried about being banned from entering the U.S. She says she’s only planning to go to California.”

If true, this should come as no surprise. Uson is said to be geographically-impaired. She once insisted that Mayon Volcano is in Naga and not in Albay. (gregmacabenta@hotmail. com)

mer Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Oscar Albayalde to go on non-duty status ahead of his retirement after he was accused of coddling the ninja cops when he was police director of Pampanga.

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año earlier said they expect the investigation to be finished by December.

However, Casurao said the timetable was moved to January so that due process could be given the respondents.

Casurao said they granted the respondents’ request for an extension to submit their affidavits and other pieces of evidence to

refute the allegations against them.

“It’s in the interest of justice and fair play,” he said.

Thirteen police officers were tagged in the recycling of shabu.

Casurao said the number went down to 12 after the PNP dismissed Lt. Joven de Guzman for a separate case in Antipolo City where he and other lawmen allegedly stole money from a man whom they tried to pin down on drug charges.

Casurao explained that they no longer have jurisdiction over De Guzman after the PNP kicked him out of the service. n

De Lima drawing up ‘more detailed...

PAGE A7

The said act allows the U.S. to impose sanctions—including denying of travel visas and the freezing and forfeiture of U.S. assets—to foreigners proven to have committed human rights violations or acts of significant corruption.

De Lima earlier released an initial list of personalities whom she recalled have contributed to her arrest and detention.

The list includes President Rodrigo Duterte, presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo, former Presidential Communications Operations Office Assistant Sec. Mocha Uson, former House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, congressmen Rey Umali and Rudy Fariñas, and former Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II. It also includes Solicitor General Jose Calida, Public Attorneys Office chief Persida Acosta, EU-based pro-Duterte blogger Sass Rogando Sasot, pro-Duterte blogger RJ Nieto, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office board member Sandra Cam, and Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission chair Dante Jimenez.

The administration has repeatedly denied that De Lima was unlawfully detained.

Sawali, meanwhile, refused to comment on whether or not the U.S. State Department had asked the detained senator for the list.

He, however, disclosed that they are in an “almost regular communication” with some staffers from the U.S. Embassy in Manila. “[It would be] Senator De Lima who can answer kung hiningan siya at ipinasa niya yung more

comprehensive list with justification, kung ganun po yun,” Sawali said.

“But I would say po, personal opinion ko po, na it would be prudent naman na tanungin, konsultahin si (in my opinion, it would be prudent to ask, consult) Senator De Lima because Senator De Lima is the one who is personally and directly affected by all of these,” he added.

Sawali said he believes the U.S. State Department may have already drawn up their own list.

“The State Department has a vast network of intelligence and information sources,” he pointed out.

“I would think na madali

nilang magawa ‘yan. Kung hindi man nagawa na. Ang tingin ko po nagawa na (they can easily do that. I think they already did),” he added.

Sawali, meanwhile, added that it would be up to the Secretary of State if even the judge and prosecutor in De Lima’s case would be covered by the ban.

“I don’t know if ultimately the State Department Secretary will consider the judge, even the prosecutor,” he said.

“There’s an ongoing discussion on whether these judicial and prosecutorial officer should be included in the list,” he added. (Christia Marie Ramos/Inquirer.net)

A10 January 4-7, 2020 • La WEEKEnD aSIan JOurnaL

Dateline PhiliPPines

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Senate to review ‘endo’ bill

by Bernadette

tamayo ManilaTimes.net

SENATOR Emmanuel Joel Villanueva is set to start the review of the “endo” (end of contract) bill that seeks an end to contractualization or the hiring of contractual workers once Congress resumes session on January 20.

The senator, chairman of the Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development said he would continue to pursue bills that protect and strengthen workers’ rights.

Congress adjourned on December 18 for a month-long holiday break.

The Senate and the House of Representatives passed the Security of Tenure bill on third reading during the 17th Congress but President Rodrigo Duterte vetoed it over some questionable provisions.

“We remain hopeful that both houses, especially the Senate, are still committed in helping the President fulfill his campaign promise in further protecting the rights of our ordinary workers,” Villanueva said.

He added that he would also investigate the “unusual influx of illegal foreign workers in the country, especially in the POGO (Philippine offshore gaming operation) and POGO-related industry.”

“More specifically, we want to

Demonstrators stage the Labor Day protest last May 1, 2019.

Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV

investigate whether the benefits of the industry outweighs its direct and indirect adverse effects, such as rising criminality, threat of money laundering, increasing property prices, among others,” he said.

Villanueva believes that creating jobs will ensure the country’s continued prosperity.

“We commit to support measures that will initiate job creation so we can sustain our economic growth and lift our people from poverty,” the senator said.

He vowed to give priority to the passage of the bill expanding the use of the legal assistance fund to ensure that the fund will be at all times available to migrant workers and overseas Filipinos in distress.

He said the fund would be able to help abused and maltreated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) seek justice “like our kababayan who died in the hands of her employer in Kuwait just before the New Year.”

“We feel that this urgent measure will be a fitting New Year’s gift to our hardworking OFWs who risk their lives and limbs just to give their families in the Philippines better lives,” Villanueva said.

“In recognition of the fact that the world of work is rapidly changing, we want to ensure that our laws are prepared for the 4th Industrial Revolution by prioritizing the alternative work arrangement bill and the freelancers protection bill,” he said. n

No problem in Duterte not picking new police chief yet MANILA — Police Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa’s powers as officer-in-charge of the Philippine National Police have not been clipped after President Rodrigo Duterte said he wants Interior and Local Government chief Eduardo Año to lead the PNP. In a press briefing on Thursday, January 2, Gamboa said that his authority as PNP’s OIC will not change “unless some of the powers that have been given by the [National Police Commission] will be withdrawn.”

He added that when he was appointed to his post as PNP OIC, it was detailed that the Napolcom has authority to review his decisions.

Gamboa explained that when he was appointed to his post, the Napolcom released a resolution detailing his authority.

Duterte on Monday, December 30, said he asked Año, a former military man, to handle and “fix” the PNP so that when his

administration ends “at least the problems of the Filipino people will not be that heavy.”

The DILG chief in response, said: “I will just closely supervise the organization and institute reforms that will improve further its efficiency and effectiveness.”

Additional powers given Gamboa added that before the Christmas season, two new powers were given to him: “The power to appoint police lieutenant colonels...and to sit down in an observer’s status in the Commission, to actively participate in defending resolutions that the PNP has proposed to the commission, in its enactment, for a better and efficient service.”

Asked if Duterte’s delay in choosing the next chief of PNP has implications on its leadership, Gamboa urged the public to “view it [in the lens] of handling the PNP.” “If it’s running and executes its functions properly, then I don’t see any problem if he has

yet to name a police chief,” he added in a mix of English and Filipino.

Gamboa also said that having the PNP chief post vacant has no effect on the police’s power to procure.

He explained that as PNP OIC, he is authorized to “sign contracts and act as head of procuring entity,” but added that they will clarify it.

The chief executive has yet to appoint a replacement to the top cop post after former PNP chief Oscar Albayalde stepped down from his position days ahead of his retirement.

Before leaving his post, Albayalde was embroiled in controversy over his supposed links to the so-called “ninja cops” or erring policemen who resold the shabu seized in a raid in Pampanga in 2013.

Año submitted a list of contenders for the top cop post to Duterte last October. (Kristine Joy Patag/Philstar.com)

LOOK ALIKE. Winners of the Jose Rizal Model Student of the Philippines (JRMSP) and the First Jose Rizal and Josephine Bracken Look-alike contest are Yumi Briones (2nd from left) of Ateneo de Manila University, Gabriel Santos (2nd from right) of Centro Escolar University, and Lovely Nakila (right) of Jose Rizal University, respectively; pose during the commemoration of the 123rd martyrdom of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park Hotel in Ermita, Manila. Also in photo is Sir Elihu Ybañez, Knight Grand Cross of Rizal (KGCR) supreme commander.

PNA photo by Ben Briones

‘Big cases’ in DOJ to be resolved in early 2020 MANILA — The Department of Justice may release resolutions on “big cases” in early 2020, Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Fadullon said.

Fadullon told reporters: “There would be quite a number of cases that would be coming out, big cases in the early part [of 2020].”

He however refused to cite specific cases, but the following are among the complaints pending resolution at the Justice department: • Drug complaint against “ninja cops,” retired top cop Oscar Albayalde • Kidnapping complaint against former Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV • Sedition complaint against opposition figures, including Vice President Leni Robredo Fadullon has recommending authority before resolutions are transmitted to Prosecutor Gen-

eral Benedicto Malcontento He explained that kidnapping and inciting to sedition complaints, as well as illegal recruitment, Dengvaxia cases, fall under his office. This means that the complaint against Albayalde and other supposed ninja cops will not go to his office.

“While [complaint against] Trillanes would fall under mine, it has not been elevated to me,” he added in a mix of English and Filipino.

Sedition complaint One of the highly anticipated complaints pending resolution before the DOJ is the Philippine National Police’s sedition complaint against 36 respondents, including Robredo.

Lawyer Erin Tañada , one of the respondents in the complaint, earlier noted that 60 days has passed since the state prosecutors wrapped up its preliminary investigation but have yet

to release the resolution.

Fadullon also said that while prosecutors are given 60 days to resolve a complaint from when it closes the preliminary investigation, they also consider other factors.

“You have to look at the gravity of the offense also, the nature of the offense and the people involved and the number of involved,” he said.

The PNP’s complaint based largely on allegations by Peter Joemel Advincula, a convicted fraudster, who twice claimed to be the hooded figure in the “Ang Totoong Narcolist” video series.

The police are accusing more 36 people, perceived to be critics of the government, of conspiring to oust President Rodrigo Duterte by releasing a series of anonymously posted videos alleging drug links to the president and his family. (Kristine Joy Patag/Philstar.com)

Campaign vs firecrackers ‘relatively successful’ despite ‘stubborn’ Pinoys — Palace by alexis

romero Philstar.com

MANILA — Malacañang on Thursday, January 2, described as “relatively successful” the Health department’s campaign against firecrackers, noting however while the number of people who were injured went down, many still opted to use firecrackers.

The Health department has reported that firecracker-related injuries totaled 164 from Dec. 21, 2019 to Jan. 1, 2020, lower by 35% than the 251 recorded in the same period last year.

There were no fatalities or cases of stray bullet injuries reported so far.

“It should be relatively successful given the fact that there

has been a downtrend in injuries. Thirty-five percent, that’s huge. And there were no deaths.

That’s significant. There is no death, unlike before,” presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a press briefing.

Panelo, however, admitted that many Filipinos were “stubborn” and still used firecrackers despite the risk of accidents.

“Maraming matitigas ang ulo kasi, eh (Many are hardheaded),” the Palace spokesman said.

“Maybe it can still be avoided.

I don’t understand why there were injuries. Perhaps because of carelessness,” he added.

Panelo said President Rodrigo Duterte is in favor of a law banning firecrackers, noting that he adopted such policy when he

was still mayor of Davao City. He said it was “probable” that the president would certify the passage of such measure as urgent.

When informed that 60% of the injuries were caused by legal firecrackers, Panelo said: “If the president has his way, he would want a total ban but many are also urging him to just regulate (the use of firecrackers). Perhaps, we’ll leave it at that for now.”

In 2017, Duterte signed Executive Order no. 28 limiting the use of firecrackers to community firework displays.

In the order, the president said the regulation is needed because of the “substantial number of firecracker-related injuries, even casualties, recorded every year, some involving mere bystanders.” n

Kin of Maguindanao massacre’s 58th victim takes case dismissal to Court of Appeals

by Kristine Joy

Philstar.com

Patag

MANILA — The family of Reynaldo Momay, the 58th victim of the Ampatuan massacre but whose murder case against suspects was junked, will appeal the civil and criminal aspect of the ruling to the Court of Appeals.

Momay’s family, through their lawyers, filed a Notice of Appeal before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 221 informing the court that they intend to raise to the Court of Appeals both the criminal and civil aspects of the case.

The appeal was filed despite the rule on double jeopardy or the prohibition “against being twice put in jeopardy.”

Double jeopardy means having the accused answer twice of the same offense.

QC RTC Branch 221 Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes convicted 28 people on 57 counts of murder, and did not count for the murder of Momay as his body was never found.

While the court noted that Momay was part of the convoy of journalists that was ambushed, prosecutors only relied on his dentures.

According to Solis-Reyes, the testimony of Momay’s partner Marivic Bilbao that she would know the dentures belonged to her partner because she cleaned it everyday [sic] for six years since 2003 was an “implausible narrative.”

Momay’s family argued that “the Supreme Court needs to revisit and reverse this doctrine [against double jeopardy] because it has unconstitutional applicability in the Philippines.”

They noted that the doctrine

This handout from the Supreme Court - Public Information Office (SC-PIO) taken and released last December 19, 2019 shows a court employee reading the verdict for the 2009 Maguindanao massacre at the trial venue inside a prison facility in Manila.

Photo courtesy of Supreme Court Public Information Office

on double jeopardy was an imposition of the United States as a colonial power in a 1904 case.

The said case involved Thomas Kepner, an American lawyer practicing in Manila charged with stealing from his client, who was acquitted by the trial court. The Philippine Supreme Court later convicted him on appeal, but Kepner raised it to the United States Supreme Court which reversed his conviction through the American concept of double jeopardy, said the Momay family’s lawyers.

“The imposition of the said doctrine in the Philippines and

its continuing use in this country—even after the Philippines gained independence and had its own sovereign constitution—violates the constitutional provisions on equal protection and due process,” their pleading read.

“This case presents itself as the perfect opportunity for the Supreme Court to revisit and remove a colonially imposed alien doctrine,” they added.

In the same Notice of Appeal, some of the victims’ kin informed the court of their appeal on the civil aspect of the case filed before the Court of Appeals. n

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B

Journal From vegan to paleo: How making Bretman Rock violated law for dancing Filipino food classics under modified to Philippine national anthem — NHCP diet lifestyles is still possible By rOsette

adel

Philstar.com

By Christina

M. Oriel

AJPress

WITH the new year, most people see it as a fresh start and will make a list of resolutions, mainly centered on self-improvement. A common resolution revolves around being ‘healthier,’ whether that means a more active lifestyle, eating better or losing weight.

In the weeks following, many tend to report that they have not stuck to their goals because of factors like losing motivation, being too busy, or not having support. Experts will agree that the best approach is to start small with simple swaps and focus on one change at a time as to not get overwhelmed and discouraged, according to the American Psychological Association.

For those considering a lifestyle change — whether to a vegetarian or keto diet — there are a lot of tips and resources available in order to start and sustain it. And for those who think it’s not possible to eat Filipino food under new circumstances, the Asian Journal spoke to several Fil-Ams who share insights that prove otherwise.

(With any health-related change, it’s advised to consult a doctor before modifying your diet.)

Vegetarian A vegetarian diet is defined as eating vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts and sometimes eggs or dairy products depending on one’s personal level of strictness. The common misconception of Filipino food is that it is all meat-based and that it’s difficult to just find plant-based dishes.

Chef, food educator and advocate Aileen Suzara told the Asian

Meryienda’s gluten free ube bars

Journal in a previous interview that the unhealthy perception of Filipino cuisine is relatively recent as the roots of the food culture have been plant-based and unprocessed. “Our people were among the world’s most skillful vegetable farmers, and our traditional foods reflect this agrarian heritage. I think of this when I hear comments that ‘Filipinos don’t eat vegetables,’” she said.

For those who are thinking of going meatless (or at least plan to eat more vegetables) but are scared of how it will taste like, Suzara has a few ideas. “If people are unfamiliar with ingredients, or have had them poorly prepared, it can seem like these foods must be bland or boring.

Luckily, vegetables can be just

as — and sometimes even more than — flavorful and creatively prepared as meat. I’d recommend people try an approach of ‘more’ vs ‘elimination,’ she said and continued, “For example, ‘how can I focus on bringing in more colors, textures, and varieties of vegetables into my daily meals, vs focusing on what to take away?’”

She suggests dark leafy greens, like kamote greens, kangkong and bok choy, because of the taste, nutritional value and can cook quickly. Adding seasonings like calamansi or lemon, chilis and garlic help add to its flavor profile. “Making small steps is [the] important thing to getting started! Having a buddy system — a friend or PAGE B2

THE National Historical Commission of the Philippines on Friday released a notice to the public stating that Filipino-American vlogger Bretman Rock violated the “flag law” also known as Republic Act No. 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.

The NHCP’s notice, dated Jan. 2, 2020, was signed by Carminda Arevalo, officer-in-charge of the agency’s Office of the Executive Director.

The agency did not name Bretman but the vlogger’s Instagram story videos, showing him twerking and lip-syncing while the Philippine national anthem was playing on the background, was reuploaded by several online users over the holidays and was criticized online.

“Dancing to the National Anthem as shown in the video abovementioned, therefore constitutes a violation of the Flag law,” the NHCP said.

The NHCP reminded the public of the implementing rules and regulations of the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines and quoted: “When the National Anthem is played… as a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at attention…shall execute a statute by placing their right palms over their chests… [and that] the National Anthem shall not be played or sung for mere recreation, amusement or entertainment purposes.”

It said the only exception are the following occasions: • international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; • national or local competitions; and • other events stated in the provision “Moreover, the said law provides that ‘failure or refusal to

Bretman Rock

observe the provisions of this Act; and any violation of the corresponding rules and regulations issued by the Office of the President shall, after proper notice and hearing, be penalized by public censure (Section 48),’” the NHCP added.

The agency said those who violated or failed to observe the law may be fined cash amounting from P5,000 to P2,000 or may be imprisoned for more than a year.

“This notice is given to the public to prevent future violations, in a similar manner, of the law,” it said.

The video of Bretman appeared to be posted three months ago.

The vlogger already apologized in October and immediately

Photo from Instagram/@bretmanrock

deleted the video after receiving criticisms from his followers and other online users.

When the video resurfaced, Bretman reacted and apologized anew last December 31, saying he is taking responsibility for his act.

“Thank you so much for understanding, I can promise you it will never happen again, I take full responsibility and I truly am so sorry,” Bretman tweeted.

Bretman Rock Sacayanan was born in the Philippines in 1998. He lived in the country for a few years before he moved to Hawaii and became a YouTube celebrity.

In 2018, he released a makeup line in collaboration with makeup brand ColourPop inspired by the colors of Philippine flag.

B january 4-7, 2020 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

EntErtainmEnt

Paleo Rookie’s Filipino Ukoy SERVES 6-8 Ingredients: • 2 bags of shredded carrots • 1 cup frozen baby shrimp, roughly chopped (excess water removed) • 3-4 green onion stalks, thinly sliced • Enough arrowroot powder to coat ingredients evenly Instructions: • Pull out frozen shrimp from the freezer and set aside for about 10 to 15 minutes or rinse under cold water 1-2 minutes.

Take a paper towel or cheese cloth and squeeze the excess water from the frozen shrimp.

You can do this with clean hands too! Roughly chop.l your shrimp.

• Combine shredded carrots, shrimp, chopped scallions, 2-3 tbsp. @bobsredmill arrowroot powder or until everything is lightly coated, toss together.

• Preheat large skillet with plenty of avocado oil, about 1/2 inch from the bottom of the pan.

Grab a small handful and gently drop it in the oil and shallow fry (can probably fit three at a time). Suggested to fry on medium-high heat but adjust burner if they brown too quickly. Turn occasionally to crisp evenly.

San Manuel Casino opens newest high-end gaming and dining experiences The new High Limit Gaming and Asian-Inspired Eatery offer opulent entertainment experiences; plus, the launch of a $10,000 cocktail

Drain on paper towel or cooling products ACV • 1 garlic clove, pressed rack and immediately sprinkle • 1 sliced serrano pepper or with sea salt.

Dipping Sauce aka sukang 2-3 labuyo peppers • Cracked pepper and pinch sawsawan: • 1/3 cup @bragglivefood- of sea salt

Ellen makes Instagram comeback after 3-year blackout by

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Ratziel San Juan Philstar.com

SEXY star Ellen Adarna surprised her fans once again with a video that revealed her latest adventure.

The Kapamilya actress unveiled her skiing trip in a brief clip posted on Instagram, greeting the new year as fans welcomed her back after she disappeared on the site for nearly three years.

The video shows Ellen maintaining balance and composure as she skied down a slope for about 10 seconds.

“As per my instructor @smartinrs ‘keep going’ should be my mantra this year! #hello2020,” read Ellen’s caption.

Her last post was back in March 2017, over a thousand Sexy star Ellen Adarna surprised her fans once again with a video that revealed her latest days ago. adventure.

Photos from Instagram/@maria.ellen.adara PAGE B3

SAN Manuel Casino recently announced the opening of its newest high limit gaming space – High Limit Tables and High Limit Slots – plus its newest culinary experience – Hong Bao Kitchen, an Asian-inspired eatery with cuisine drawn from all over China and other surrounding regions.

“At San Manuel Casino, we always strive to give our guests new and exciting options, which led us to open the new high limit space and Hong Bao Kitchen,” said Peter Arceo, General Manager of San Manuel Casino. “Providing these unique and luxury entertainment options is just the latest way to offer our guests a best-in-class experience and sets us apart as one of Southern California’s top entertainment destinations.”

At High Limit Tables and High Limit Slots, a custom marble walkway leads guests into the luxurious slots chamber, which offers more than 200 of the newest and hottest slots in the gaming industry, including Buffalo Gold Revolution, Ultimate Fire Link, Crystal Star, Black Diamond, Lightning Cash and Jackpot Streams, some with denominations up to $1,000. High Limit Tables will feature 15 table games, including Baccarat, 3:2 Double Deck Blackjack and Six Deck Blackjack. Guests can have the ultimate VIP experience in one of the exclusive gaming parlors available upon reservation.

“Our newest gaming space brings our highest table limits yet - $25,000 - making San Manuel Casino one of the best high limit experiences in the country,” said Arceo.

For guests looking to indulge in drink options such as unique Japanese whiskeys, the bars inside High Limit Tables and High Limit Slots will feature custom cocktails and rare wines and spirits created by award-winning mixologists. 24-hour VIP Concierge services and other amenities complete the high limit experience.

High limit gaming also boasts San Manuel Casino’s newest beverage offering – Rare and Fine – carrying a $10,000 price tag. This high-end cocktail was created by in-house mixologists that will feature one of the most rare and expensive American whiskeys, as well as a 100-point Bordeaux, served in a keepsake Lalique crystal glass along with a diamond and 14k gold cocktail pick.

Inspired by the Mandarin word Hongbao which means “red envelope” and is synonymous with happiness, luck, good will and good fortune. Hong Bao Kitchen is a unique Asian restaurant adorned with elements of well-being and positive energy that features traditional dishes drawn from China’s eight major cuisine regions, as well as Vietnam, Korea and Japan.

“We have carefully crafted the Hong Bao Kitchen menu to

Hong Bao Entrance

Dumplings at Hong Bao

Rare and Fine - the $10K cocktail at San Manuel Casino

Bob Zhang, San Manuel Casino executive sous chef; Jun Tao, Hong Bao Kitchen’s chef de cuisine, and Tony Wang, manager of Hong Bao Kitchen

highlight regional Asian specialties,” said Bob Zhang, Executive Asian Chef of San Manuel Casino.

“Hong Bao will be a unique and authentic experience for all guests wishing to enjoy the cuisine of different Asian cultures, with delicious and lively flavors sure to satisfy every palate,” said Jun Tao, Hong Bao Chef de Cuisine.

Guests can enjoy classic American favorites like Kong Bao Chicken, as well as more traditional dishes such as tableside Peking Duck, Seafood Ball with Crab, Matsutake Lion Head, freshly made dim sum prepared daily and more. Hong Bao Kitchen also features a full

bar of specialty cocktails, such as Blossoms and Spice and the Matcha Matcha cocktail, that utilize exotic fruits and spices from the Orient.

Just 60 minutes from Downtown Los Angeles, San Manuel Casino is located at 777 San Manuel Blvd., Highland, CA 92346, and can be reached by calling 1-800-359-2464. Millions of guests each year enjoy more than 4,900 slots, Vegas-style blackjack, high-limit gaming, incredible entertainment, sumptuous dining, and a generous player’s reward program. For more information visit www. sanmanuel.com.

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From vegan to paleo: How making...

PAGE B1 family members — can be motivating and make the process fun,” Suzara said.

Vegan Veganism goes beyond the traditional vegetarian diet by abstaining from eating or using animal products altogether.

There are many reported benefits of going vegan, such as eating more greens which can reduce the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and cancer or a personal way of helping better the environment.

Having vegan Filipino food is easier now with restaurants like Nick’s in the Bay Area preparing adaptions of traditional dishes and educating the community that it’s possible to still enjoy the cuisine without animal products.

For those who still want Filipino ice cream, there’s also Los Angeles-based Cheeri Cheeri, which has flavors like buko pandan and puto bumbong.

“My advice for my fellow Fil-Ams is not to be intimated to make the switch. You will be surprised at how easy it is to veganize our traditional dishes!”

Reina Montenegro, who started Nick’s with business partner Kenny Annis, said. She aims to debunk the misconceptions that being vegan means that we all just eat salad, it’s expensive, we don’t get enough protein and it’s very hard to do.” The restaurant offers dishes from vegan karekare to ampalaya (bitter melon) with Just Egg scramble to sisig using grilled mushrooms and tofu in a soy vinegar sauce.

Dash Nye, a Fil-Am outreach

strategist at PETA, added, “There are far more vegan options available today than many people realize. Most grocery stores boast brands like vegan ‘meats,’ from Gardein, Beyond, and Morningstar; vegan cheeses and dressings from Daiya; dairyfree yogurts and ice creams from SoDelicious; and good old Tofurky deli slices.”

Nye recommends a blog like ASTIG Vegan, which contains dozens of recipes from vegan lechon paksiw that uses jackfruit to dinuguan substituting pork with tofu and mushrooms, or PETA’s Vegan Mentor Program that “pairs individuals with a one-on-one personal vegan coach who can answer questions and offer guidance on shopping, cooking, eating out, nutrition, and more,” he said.

Gluten-free A popular lifestyle shift in recent years has been a glutenfree diet, which many believe is healthier and can lead to weight loss. It is a necessary change for those with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. With celiac disease, eating gluten causes “the body’s immune system [to] attack the small intestine, damaging finger-like projections called villi, which are important for absorption of nutrients from food,” according to Medical News Today. Those who have a gluten sensitivity also make the modification to avoid adverse health effects as even tiny amounts of gluten contamination can cause

a reaction.

Filipina American Elvira Acosta switched to a glutenfree lifestyle about 15 years ago when she learned that she was diagnosed with celiac disease.

Back then, gluten-free options were not as accessible and trendy as they are today, leading Acosta to experiment with recipes and to start Meryienda, an online gluten-free bakeshop with cookies, bars, brownies, cakes and Filipino-inspired treats from ube bars to food for the gods.

Some studies have shown that a gluten-free diet does not have definite health benefits for people without celiac disease, though it is not necessarily harmful to remove gluten from one’s diet either. Acosta’s biggest piece of advice is to “give it a try, if you feel better by going gluten-free, then continue with it, but if it’s not for you and you don’t have to do it for health reasons, that’s okay too.”

Acosta advises three things: “Everything that’s gluten-free isn’t necessarily healthy. Many GF packaged foods contain just as much sugar, refined flour, unhealthy fats, and other fillers. Gluten-free isn’t a weight loss diet, cutting out gluten doesn’t automatically help you lose weight. As with any diet, weight loss depends mainly on the amount of calories consumed. Consuming too much of the foods that contain gluten can lead to weight gain, but this is also true of gluten-free foods. Eating a lot of anything can make you gain weight.

PAGE B4

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WHAT’S THE BEST WAY FOR A TNT TO LEGALIZE HIS STAY IN THE U.S.? This Sunday, viewers will get to hear the immigration questions of the third batch of Kapamilya who attended the “Citizen Pinoy” taping in Virginia. Tune in to get the most relevant information and answers to immigration concerns on an encore episode of— “Citizen Pinoy,” this Sunday at 6:15 p.m. PST/EST (9:15 p.m. EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

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Jasmine starts the new year with a bang by

ALLAN POLICARPIO Inquirer.net

Kyline Alcantara with Nora Aunor

GMA photo

Kyline excited to work with Nora

by LHAR

SANTIAGO

ManilaTimes.net

BEFORE 2019 said goodbye, Kyline Alcantara saw to it that she would have a few days off from her work, away from the busy city and with the most important people in her life, her family.

December 22, Kyline had a mall show and fan meet and greet in Tarlac City. From there, they proceeded to their choice of vacation place — Ilocos.

The Alcantaras were complete for this vacation — Kyline’s mom and dad as well as her two brothers, who stay in Bicol where they attend school, were all present. Even her grandparents from her mother’s side, an aunt and young cousins joined too. As it was all their first time in the province, everybody was excited.

“Ang dami naming napuntahan. Vigan is very exciting.

We visited old churches, experienced wild life in Baluarte.

Hinawakan ko yung sawa saka yung tiger. I also tried pottery.

“But the place I fell in love with was Calle Crisologo. When I was there, I felt like being transported back to old times, ‘yung Spanish regime. Ang ganda niya talaga especially in the evening. I am amazed at how they were able to preserve the houses and with Calle Crisologo as a whole,” shared Kyline.

From Vigan in Ilocos Sur, Kyline and her family proceeded to Ilocos Norte. “I would say that our vacation was complete. Dami naming napuntahan sa Ilocos Norte. We went to Pagudpud. We had a grand time at the beach. Sobrang nagenjoy kami ng brothers ko. We also visited the place na may mga windmills. Then we tried the ATV sa sand dunes. Kasama pa namin yung mga batang pinsan namin kaya parang mga bata rin kaming naglalaro,” she enthused.

Another experience that

Kyline, a vegetable lover, will never forget is eating Ilocano food, especially their vegetable dishes.

“Authentic Ilocano dishes talaga ang kinain namin. I really love the way they cook their vegetables. After eating, siyempre hindi naman puro fun lang kami, we also went to church. Nung Christmas Day, we attended the mass in one of the old churches in Ilocos Norte.”

Indeed, their Ilocos adventure was something unforgettable for Kyline and her family, a first of them.

“I’m just happy that this happened. Dati, I was just dreaming that we were going on vacation in one place. I actually prayed that God would bless me with more projects para mapasaya ko ang pamilya ko.

“Everyone knows, of course, that we do not come from a rich family. Noon, masaya na kami when we go to the beach malapit sa lugar namin sa Bicol.

PAGE B4

JASMINE Curtis-Smith is grateful to be ending this year— and starting the next one—on a positive note.

Aside from being part of the the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry “Culion,” she’s set to star in the coming local adaptation of the hit Korean drama “Descendants of the Sun.” She will also top-bill two new movies—a romantic comedy with Enchong Dee and a prospective entry in the Cinemalaya Film Festival.

“I’m so happy work started to really pick up in the last quarter of the year and carried over to 2020. What a way to start the new decade!” Jasmine, who also headlined the films “Maledicto” and “Cara x Jagger” earlier, told reporters in an interview at the recent Parade of Stars.

While she and Rocco Nacino (“Write About Love”) are part of competing films in the MMFF, the two will be working closely in “Descendants.” “It’s fun and I’m glad we were able to project the friendship we have in real life to the screen,” related the 25-year-old actress, who admitted that she was feeling a bit nervous about how the audience will receive the soap once it airs on GMA 7.

“But the feedback to our trailer has been positive so far, so that’s nice! Taping has been a lot of fun and it feels rewarding to see that people are looking forward to it,” added Jasmine, who plays the soldier Moira Defensor. “I’m thankful I

Jasmine Curtis

was called to audition and got the role.”

Doing a remake of a popular show, she pointed out, entails “huge responsibility.” “You have to make sure that you’re sticking to the original, but at the same time, give it a Filipino flavor,” she said.

Jasmine hopes to continue “branching out” to different fields this 2020. “We have a record company, and we manage a band called Flu. I hope

Photo from Instagram/@jascustissmith

to book more gigs for them, introduce them to mainstream media, and have them play in different music festivals,” she said. “And I hope to finally build the hostel in La Union that I have been planning for the longest time.”

But before that, she will be taking some time off and spend the rest of the holidays on a beach. “I also hope to do an MMFF marathon. I want to see all the films,” she said.

Vegan sisig at Nick’s in San Francisco

From vegan to paleo: How making...

PAGE B2 Gluten isn’t only in flour and grains. It can also be found in soup, sauces/mixes, soy sauce, salad dressing, meat substitutes, protein/energy bars, and potato chips.”

For making Filipino classics, Acosta has made adobo with Tamari sauce and jackfruit, pancit with buckwheat or rice noodles and fresh lumpia with a rice/cassava flour wrapper, for example. Luckily, there is a long list of foods that naturally don’t contain gluten, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, lean meats and chicken, which helps in planning out meals. It also doesn’t mean forgoing rice and grains as there are options like quinoa, brown rice, wild rice, millet and buckwheat.

Paleo The Paleo diet has become a trend in recent years, as the premise is to mimic eating habits similar to what human hunter-gatherer ancestors ate thousands of years ago. This means eating meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and healthy fats and oils; but avoiding processed foods, sugar, soft drinks, grains, most dairy products, legumes, artificial sweeteners, vegetable oils, margarine and trans fats.

Alexis Jacinto Rivera, who runs the Instagram account @paleorookie, did her first Whole30 — a 30-day elimination diet that removes all soy, dairy, grains, alcohol, legumes, and added sugars — to kickstart her wellness journey after having her first child. Through that experience, she learned about the “very ancestral way of preparing Filipino dishes,” such as swapping MSG sinigang packets for organic tamarind paste. Since then, she’s adopted a paleo lifestyle and shares a breadth of recipes on her account to help others in

their journeys as well.

“Give yourself time to adjust to a paleo lifestyle. It won’t be overnight or in 30 days but finding a healthy lifestyle that best supports YOU and your needs is a journey worth traveling. Create space for yourself to go through the changes and don’t rush the process,” Rivera shared.

One of the biggest questions she gets is whether she misses Filipino food and how to preserve one’s culture while making a lifestyle change.

“When we eat ‘healthy,’ we tend to water down our food, eat what is expected of us and really doing it as a chore rather than an act of self-love. A lot of Filipinos will ask me, ‘Don’t you miss Filipino food?!” And at first the answer was yes. When I first started eating paleo, I ate a lot of salads, plain grilled meat and roasted veggies. As delicious as that was, it wasn’t Filipino food.

That’s why I started developing paleo Filipino dishes,” Rivera said.

On her Instagram account, you can find recipes like ukoy using shredded carrots, shrimp and arrowroot powder and a deconstructed lumpia bowl that contains the same ingredients without the outside wrapper.

She also suggests that rice, a staple in Filipino cuisine, doesn’t have to be omitted completely and can still be enjoyed moderately. “Rice will always be there when you want it. It’s all about listening to your body in the moment and what it currently needs. If you’re suffering from high blood pressure or diabetes and you need to cut back on the sugar, you can still enjoy your beloved Filipino dishes with a little creativity and patience,” she said.

Keto In the past year, you may have heard people talking about

being on the ‘ketogenic’ diet, a low-carb, high-fat and moderate-protein diet. The goal is to enter a state of ketosis during which the body uses fat instead of carbohydrates to fuel weight loss. To get started, check your macros to see what your daily intake of carbs, fat and protein should be.

With this diet, you can eat different types of meat, fatty fish, eggs, butter, cream, cheese, health oils, and low-carb vegetables. Cauliflower, for example, is considered a low-carb vegetable and can be shredded as a substitute for rice. But it’s advised to avoid foods with high sugar, grains, fruits (except for small portions of berries), beans, legumes, and root vegetables and tubers as they can throw the body out of the desired ketosis.

“While [the] ketogenic diet encourages you to eat more fat, it doesn’t mean that you should stuff your mouth with the not-so-good fats. Choose the healthy kind of fats from avocado, salmon, olive oil, nuts instead of canola oil, fast food, soybean, etc.,” wrote Pinay Jema Ng on the Pinoy Fitness site after doing a 30-day keto challenge.

There may be some initial side effects when adapting to this diet, also known as the ‘keto flu.’ Symptoms include poor energy, increased hunger, and decreased exercise performance. However, some studies and personal testimonies have shown that keto can lower blood sugar and insulin levels and help with weight-loss.

“Join Keto Facebook Groups to find keto food hacks, learn about keto-approved sweeteners, get inspired and motivated by other people’s success stories. You can also ask questions and other members will be more than happy to reply to your questions,” Ng said.

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Kyline excited to work with...

PAGE B3 I really thank God that because of His blessings, we can now do these things. I really work hard for them,” Kyline said.

As 2019 was ending, Kyline was so elated because she already knew of her two new projects in GMA. On Sunday will be the initial telecast of GMA’s new musical variety show “All Out Sunday” where she is one of the regulars.

“This is very exciting because I get to work with my co-stars in Studio 7. That only means na tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang bonding namin kasi sobrang naging close na kami. Tapos kasama pa namin ang ibang big stars ng GMA like Alden Richards, Glaiza De Castro and Derrick Monasterio. It’s not only the electrifying song numbers and sizzling dance prods that the televiewers will enjoy but the comedy sketches featuring

the likes of Boobay and Tekla and Paolo Contis.

“All out na talaga ang pagpapasaya namin sa Sunday noon ng mga Kapuso,” she assured.

The other project that Kyline is looking forward to is the TV version of the 1980s hit movie “Bilangin Ang Bituin Sa Langit.” The taping for the series has actually started but Kyline will start doing her scenes on the second week of January.

“I find ‘Bilangin Ang Bituin Sa Langit’ very challenging because I am acting beside local showbiz’s acting greats — veterans and award- winning actors. There is our one and only superstar Nora Aunor at alam naman natin that she’s really a great actress. We also have Miss Mylene Dizon na sobrang unquestionably good as an actress.

“Whenever I think that I will be acting with them, I feel so inferior. Parang sino ba ako kumpara sa kanila para mabigyan ng opportunity to act with them,” Kyline humbly stated.

Finally, 2020 will be a very exciting and interesting year for Kyline as she turns 18 in September.

“My family, my management team and GMA Artist Center have decided that I will have a grand debut. When they told me my decision, all I could exclaim was, ‘Inaaay!’ As early as now, we are already preparing.

Nag-iipon na ako kasi gastos yan, siyempre. We are also finalizing the venue and the people who will be part of the ceremony,” she revealed.

But nothing changes as far as Kyline is concerned even if she is turning 18. It will still be all work. “It’s my vitamins, my energizer. Feeling ko nga, nanlalambot ako pag walang trabaho. I’m happier when I work every day. Kaya, sige lang, tambakan n’yo ko ng work. I always say to my manager and my handler, ‘Bring it on.’”

Will becoming 18 signal her readiness to entertain suitors?

Will the girl finally turn into a woman?

“It’s far from my mind,” Kyline answered. “Hindi pa muna.

It’s only now that I’m starting to give my family a more comfortable life kahit paano. I would like to bring them to another unforgettable vacation out of the country naman. For me, it’s all for their happiness.”

Here comes another year

MOONLIGHTING

by MYLAH DE

LEON

The old year has passed and we commemorate it while invoking the illumination of the year’s days of authentic indulgence, simplicities, celebration and closure.

As we welcome the new year, we need to put the old years unfinished business — mistakes, regrets, shortcomings and disappointment behind us, bad memories as well.

We will make some discoveries, as we keep on a look out for soulful markers that surround us, savoring the stops along the way. These are what make the journey marvelous, meaningful and memorable. As you find and honor your own pace, stirring your mind, body and spirit, through the parting of the mists where faith and doubt meet; we will find, not who we are — but what we are.

We honored the old year with a farewell toast, welcome the new year within: offered thanks, and celebrated how far you’ve come, how much you’ve learned and the glorious person we could become.

I am not fazed by cynicism and betrayals. I will sprinkle it on my oats, add it as a boost to my Ensure. It keeps me young. But for a week more, I will put all that on hold. Forget the cynicism, those that give you grieve. Feed them to the alligators! If you’re sad at New Year’s you really have only yourself to blame. Candles, firelights and bubbling wines can keep your heads above them.

I will laugh when I hear favorite lines gleaned from beaujolies, savaged only by the twisted wisdom of my colleagues. That pointed out that there were different rules for old women with money; I vowed that one day there’d be one.

Happy New Year— it’s time to conceive new dreams and plans, overcome old fears and old pain, to experience that freedom, discover new strengths; that, oh, so sought goal. The new aspirations, new challenges…and grow old. I shall from invisible tbe vibrant…older is happier.

I let the pine tree live on that Christmas morning that came and gone. I threw open my window on a bright, delightful and shining world for the 80th time.

The bustling street falls strangely quiet. The living room rests, ankle deep in an effluvia of ribbons, papers and bows, empty cardboard boxes that held presents.

In the background, Tchaikovsky gives the evanescent joy of music into a yearning heart.

I will make every day my favorite day of the year, fill my heart with gratitude, strive for simplicity now that the holidays are over. The child of laughter and contentment has arrived…that which rivals the hues of the peacocks and the harmonies of heaven.

It is also impossible not to think of the homeless today.

And I settle some into little boxes. Thousands and thousands of years ago, another homeless family depended on strangers’ charity and kindness. They didn’t find any until an ordinary, harried, exhausted woman stopped long enough to feel her heart tug. Mine now tugs with guilt, that a basket

and presents we’ve dropped off to a shelter, eases up the sting a bit. But I am disappointed and saddened that I didn’t and don’t do more. I will this year, I promise.

Sometimes, I keep them with well-intentioned promise, but most of the time, real life distracts me. I don’t do enough, and I know it. But it does give me a happy pause wondering whose New Year’s dreams come true.

We offered thanks, celebrated how far you’ve become, how much you’ve learned and the glorious woman you wish and could become. It is always easy to see the beginning of things, and harder to see the end. It is always harder to cut through the ambiguities and second starts and broken resolves.

I don’t really know what I’m waiting for. I only know that until I have gained what I want from life, my expression of gratitude and joy will be restricted to a nip in the air that clarifies the scent. I’ll begin exploring the richness of seasonal soul craft…let my wind off into natural marvels, with rituals revolved around savoring, reaping, enjoyment, restoration and reflection.

I’ll glance at the sun, and see the moon and star. When was the last time you star gazed?

Looked up into the night sky and realized that you’ve got a friend up there? That everyday in another day to follow the clues for the promise of the new year?

Revel on relinquishment, by letting seasonally sanctioned sojourns of slow joy, by transforming not only our own lives, but the lives of those we love.

Make the pursuit of happiness real and personal. NOW. *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@ aol.com.

Nadine promotes music festival with James amid breakup rumors by

NIÑA V. GUNO Inquirer.net

WHILE JaDine fans continue to defend their favorite couple, Nadine Lustre and James Reid have yet to comment on their rumored breakup. However, the social media noise has not stopped the actress from showing support for the other half of JaDine.

Lustre took to Instagram Stories today, Jan. 3, to promote James’ upcoming performance at the Overpass music festival in California. She also shared a post promoting rapper Curtismith.

Lustre’s Instagram posts have been cryptic, with some interpreting her captions as trouble in her relationship with James. Her latest post with the actor was on Sunday, Dec. 29, in which she said, “No questions. just go with it.”

Reid’s sister Lauren heightened speculations that something was amiss in the relationship when she commented, “But I have so many questions! [cry-

Nadine Lustre and James Reid are rumored to have called it quits.

Inquirer.net photo by Gabriel Pabico Lalu

ing emoji] [heartbreak emoji].”

The “Indak” star spent New Year’s Eve celebrations with Lauren, but was not seen in pictures with James, as per Lauren’s Instagram post.

Another post shows her silhouette with the caption, “for good reason, lost all of my love.”

Lustre reportedly left the house she and James stay in, the Philippine Entertainment

Portal reported on Wednesday, Jan. 1.

A source told Bandera in a report Friday that they still are still in love with each other and that they will not break up: “May inaayos lang, pero hindi sila hiwalay (Things are being sorted out, but they are not split up).”

The two celebrated their third anniversary in February 2019.

Solenn gives birth to first baby on New Year’s Day by

KRISSY AGUILAR Inquirer.net

ACTRESS Solenn Heussaff welcomed 2020 by giving birth to her first child with husband Nico Bolzico.

Heu ssa f f on Wed nesd ay, January 1 via Instagram shared a photo of herself lying on a hospital bed with Bolzico by her side.

“Best way to welcome 2020.

So in love with you Thylane Katana,” Heussaff wrote.

On Tuesday, December 31, Bolzico shared a photo of them, saying they are spending New Year’s Eve at the hospital.

“Advance Happy New Year!

Looks like we are spending it in an unexpected place this Solenn Heussaff Photo from Instagram_@solenn time! Waiting for #BabyBolz! child back in August.

Disclaimer: hopefully this is wrote.

The couple first announced Heussaff and Bolzico tied not # Wifezi l la pran k ing me and going too far!” Bol zico they are expecting their first the knot in France in 2016.

Ellen makes Instagram...

PAGE B2 ans previously noticed that the star deactivated her Instagram account without warning, while her verified Facebook page remained active.

Ellen, however, took to Facebook in October 2018 to expose

an impostor Instagram account that mimicked her display name and photo.

Ellen has been on a showbiz break along with her “eccentric” celebrity partner John Lloyd Cruz.

The status of the couple is un-

known even among their friends, but they are rumored to have split allegedly due to John Lloyd’s “weirdness.”

The actor was notably absent from the Christmas family portrait posted by Ellen’s sister on Instagram.

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Meet Tina Shih, renowned modeling teacher joining Asia Pacific Fashion Week THE special week celebrating APA fashion designers is currently recruiting models to participate Contrary to popular belief, it’s not easy being a model.

Also contrary to popular belief, the beauty of a model is beyond skin-deep.

Tina Shih knows this. The former model, educator and pageant coach understands the importance of personal presentation; it’s more than just a walk, and it’s more than simply posing in front of a photographer.

For many people, the characteristics necessary for a modeling career — etiquette, poise, charisma, and confidence — don’t come naturally. And these traits aren’t just requisites for a modeling career, but they are also necessities for pageant contestants, businesspeople and a wide variety of occupations that require a convincing, captivating personality.

With nearly 20 years of experience in modeling and social etiquette training, Shih is taking her talents to the exciting new Asia Pacific Fashion Week (APFW) being held next spring in Hollywood, Los Angeles. The APFW — scheduled for April 25 to May 3 — will feature some of the most prolific fashion designers of the global Asian and Pacific Islander community.

Open to models and designers with little to no professional experience, APFW is seeking to capture authenticity and individuality to showcase the diversity of the API community.

“You can look beautiful and have a great body, nice smile and great walk, but elegance and confidence come from within and your personality is what really makes an impact.

If you don’t have either of those things, the physical traits mean nothing. You don’t just have to be beautiful. You have to be memorable,” Shih told the Asian Journal in a recent interview.

Born in Taiwan, where she had a successful career as a young model, Shih eventually went on to pursue teaching, receiving her master’s degree in education in Singapore.

Originally, Shih had her career sights on early education, specifically as a Sunday school teacher. In 1988, she im-

migrated to Los Angeles where she served as the director and principal of a private elementary school. Then, around 2008, she combined her loves of education and etiquette to establish the award-winning Tina Modeling, House of Etiquette, which has become one of the top etiquette training institutions in both Southern California and in Asia.

Located in San Gabriel and the City of Industry, Tina Modeling graduates have gone on to win top prizes in beauty pageants and become professional models and successful businesswomen. Shih has taught women, men and chil-

dren of all ages and has shared her deep expertise through choreographing dozens of fashion shows and pageants across California and Asia. In short, she is among the most well-versed in the world of pageantry.

Though Tina Modeling is open to everyone, Shih told the Asian Journal that a vast majority of her clients are Asian women of all occupational backgrounds seeking to gain confidence. Bridging the societal gaps between eastern and western gender norms, Shih says, is a core mission in her curricula.

“As Asian women, we’re

taught to be soft and quiet and that we shouldn’t be too aggressive or forceful,” Shih explained.

“It’s the same in Chinese culture, Filipino culture, Japanese culture, but I want them to know that they can be confident and be true to themselves.”

That being said, one thing that Shih values in her work is being able to bring out the individuality of every one of her clients, a core value being brought to APFW. Shih teaches students various principles of etiquette, but she never wants to erase their unique personality.

“When I would mentor models

in China, I noticed that uniformity is really valued over there.

All the models had the same hair, same makeup, and same look and they walked identical to each other. That’s not what I want to do with my models. I want you to be yourself because that’s how you’ll be most comfortable which, of course, will make you feel more confident,” Shih explains.

And that’s the philosophy that Shih plans to bring to the APFW, which is currently inviting aspiring models and fashion designers to apply.

“What we really want to do is

to give exposure to new and upand-coming talent. If modeling is something you’ve wanted to try, then this is a great opportunity to get experience and learn all about the industry,” Shih said.

For those interested in joining APFW, please visit http://asiapacificfashionweek.com/ for more information and to apply.

If you’re interested in learning more about Tina Modeling, House of Etiquette head to https://www.tinamodeling.com/ contact for information on the courses offered.

(Advertising Supplement)

ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com.

And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event.

To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice.

The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.

B january 4-7, 2020 • La WEEKEnD aSIan jOurnaL

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 4-7,2020

COMMUNITY Journal

GANAP Singers entertain on January 4 in North Hollywood Underprivileged singers find a life of purpose inspite of hardships through performing arts

The GANAP Singers performed for Philippine Congressman Michael L. Romero before departing for this U.S. tour.

FILAM Arts and Philippine Patrons of the Arts USA present “Music and More! with the GANAP Singers” at the Community Auditorium of the Church of Scientology of the Valley on Saturday, January 4 at 5 p.m.

The presenters embarked to showcase this choir of the GANAP Performing Arts Foundation to help the singers, each of whom is a scholar, who benefits from the musical and artistic activities of the program that enables them to raise funds for school.

Proceeds shall also benefit the relaunch of FilAm Arts’ Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in September 2020, as well as the improvement of the Erehwon Center for the Arts facilities in Quezon City, the home base of the GANAP Performing Arts Foundation.

The inspirational stories of these singers, who hail from poor communities, are that in GANAP, they learn that trials train people to find their strengths. They stand proud and confident in front of many people, showing their dedication, passion and love for music and the arts. Members are mostly underprivileged and have found family and a second home in GANAP. The GANAP Singers’ talents have brought the group to Singapore and Taiwan, performing an

entertaining mix of English pop, Filipino hits and popular choral works, which they perform with choreography. The GANAP Singers have been awarded this 2019 as a Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal awardee for Most Outstanding Institution (Culture and the Arts).

The GANAP touring group is comprised of Karl Daniel Canlas (Founding member, Assistant Director/Stage Manager), Jan Michael P. Romano (Overall Coordinator/Technical Director/Dance Master), Stephanie Fate T. Longkino (Rehearsal Master), Ivy Magno (Soprano 2/Soprano Section Leader), Lawrence Figueroa (Tenor 3), Mary Melody Connie Reyes (Alto 2/Alto Section Leader), Lovely Kate Enriquez (Soprano 1), Lorenzo Nilo (Band Leader/Tenor Section Leader/Principal Pianist), Cyrus Caliwara (Bass 1/Bass Section Leader).

The choir is led by their Artistic Director, Dr. Alexis Jan “Agoy” Patacsil, formerly of the famed University of the Philippines Concert Chorus.

Ticket donation is $25 at the door or at https:// ganap.eventbrite.com. Concert venue address is 11455 Burbank Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601. For more information, email info@musicartsevents.com or text or call Music Arts Events at (818) 538-4033. Please arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. n

Conductor Agoy Patacsil takes a bow as the GANAP Singers perform Filipino ethnic music in Singapore.

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C JANUARY 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Tax & Stock Tips Victor Sy,

cPA, MBA (retired)

INDIVIDUAL Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) are used by people who should file income tax returns but are not eligible for Social Security numbers. A vast number of ITINs expired at the end of 2019. IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig distributed information materials in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Traditional Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Korean and Haitian

http://www.asianjournal.com • (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797

Did your ITIN expire last

December 31, 2019?

on IRS.gov. No Tagalog.

Which ITINs expired December 31, 2019?

1. ITINs that have not been used on a federal tax return in the last three consecutive years.

2. ITINs with middle digits 83, 84, 85, 86 or 87 that have not been renewed expired at the end of the year.

TIP 1: Submit a renewal application as soon as possible if you expect to file a tax return in 2020.

TIP 2: Visit the ITIN information page on IRS.gov on how to

renew your expired ITIN. *** Victor Santos Sy graduated Cum Laude from UE with a BBA and from Indiana State University with an MBA. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV - Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation. *** He retired after 50 years of defending taxpayers audited by the IRS, EDD, BOE and other governmental agencies. He published a book on “How to Avoid or Survive IRS Audits.” Readers may email tax questions to vicsy@live.com.

Relief for denied Naturalization Application KAPAG ang USCIS ay nagdeny ng application for naturalization, ang USCIS ay magbibigay ng Notice of Denial na nagsasaad ng legal at factual na dahilan nito.

Maaaring tanggapin ng aplikante ang denial decision; maaari ring ang aplikante ay hindi sumang-ayon sa denial decision at siya ay magfile ng Form N-336 Request for Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings. Ang N336 Request for Hearing ay kailangang i-file sa loob ng 30 araw mula sa pagtanggap ng Notice of Denial. Ang filing fees ay $700.

Kapag tinanggap ng USCIS ang Form N-336, kailangang ang USCIS ay mag-schedule ng hearing sa loob ng 180 araw mula sa filing ng Form N-336.

Ang N-336 Request for Hearing ng aplikante ay itatalaga sa bagong USCIS officer, na siyang magsusuri ng orihinal na naturalization application, kasama na ang mga bagong ebidensya at mga testimonia na nakapasa sa Form N-336. Maaari ring magsubmit ng legal brief na nangangatwiran ukol sa pagkakamali ng USCIS sa pag-isyu ng Notice of Denial. Sa N-336 hearing, ang USCIS Officer ay maaaring magsagawa ng buong pagsusuri ng naturalization application, na parang walang denial decision na nangyari. Maaari ring mas streamlined ang pagsusuri at ang paglalaanan ng panahon ay ang dahilan sa denial ng naturalization application.

Habang ang N-336 Request for Hearing ay posibleng remedy para sa aplikante, may mga pagkakataon na ang pag-file ng bagong N-400 Application for Naturalization ay mas mainam

Tapat Sa Batas Atty. rheA SAMSon na remedy. Halimbawa, kung ang aplikante ay hindi nakatupad sa continuous presence requirement o physical presence requirement para sa naturalization, mas mabuti na siya ay magantay at mag-ipon pa ng panahon dito sa the U.S. bago magfile ng panibagong N-400 Application for Naturalization. Kung ang denial ay dahil sa kawalan o lack of good moral character sa loob ng 5-year statutory period para sa naturalization application, mas mabuti rin na ang aplikante ay maghintay ng pagkalipas ng 5 taon mula sa insidente na nagdulot ng lack of good moral character. Kung ang naturalization applicant ay lalaking green card holder na nakatanggap ng kanyang green card noong siya ay 18 hanggang 26 taon gulang, ngunit siya ay hindi nakapagregister sa U.S. Selective Service System, mas mabuti na siya ay maghintay na siya ay maging 31 taon gulang bago magfile ng panibagong N-400 Application for Naturalization. *** If the USCIS denies an application for naturalization, the USCIS will issue a Notice of Denial stating the legal and factual basis for the denial. The applicant may accept the denial decision or request a hearing before an Immigration Officer by filing

Form N-336 Request for Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings. The N-336 Request for Hearing must be filed within 30 days of receipt of the Notice of Denial, otherwise the same may be rejected by USCIS. Filing fees for N-336 is $700. If the USCIS accepts Form N-336, it must schedule a hearing within 180 days of receiving the timely filed Form N-336.

The applicant’s N-336 Request for Hearing will be assigned to a new USCIS Officer, who will review the original naturalization application, as well as new evidence or testimony that is submitted with Form N-336. A legal brief may also be submitted arguing that the USCIS made an error in the denial of the naturalization application. At the hearing, the USCIS Officer may conduct a full review and hearing on the naturalization application, as though a denial decision has not been made. The USCIS may also conduct a more streamlined review of the application and just focus on the reasons for denial of the naturalization application.

While an N-336 Request for Hearing may be a possible remedy for the applicant, there are instances when filing a new N400 Application for Naturalization will be the more appropriate remedy. For example, if the applicant fails to meet the continuous presence requirement or the physical presence requirement for naturalization, the applicant should wait and accumulate more time in the US before filing a new N-400 Application for Naturalization. Similarly, if there was a denial based on lack

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The Prophetic Voice reVerend rodel G. BAlAGtAS AS we celebrate the New Year, let’s remember the famous words of Dag Hammarskjold, the Swedish diplomat and second Secretary-General of the United Nations: “For all that has been, thank you. For all that is to come, yes!”

These words imply two great attitudes: gratitude and openness to God’s will. We’re thankful to God for the year that has gone by despite its many challenges and we’re prepared to embrace another year with all its surprises, changes, and uncertainties.

Mary revealed these two atti-

The Metamorphosis

As we make our journeys

tudes as she took on her role as the Mother of God. She humbly realized her blessedness among all women and her whole spirit rejoiced in God. At the same time, her fiat, her “yes,” was filled with fear and anxiety, but she put everything in the hands of the Creator. She knew that this was God’s plan for her and the whole human race; she “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

As we reflect on our lives, we too realize how God accompanies us in our journeys. As he led the three Magi to see the newborn King through the guidance of the star, God illumines our ways and guides us to the right path. He wants us all to reach our goals and to encounter the greatest treasure of all that we can have: the person of Jesus. In Jesus we’ll find complete fulfill-

ment and joy!

This Sunday is the Feast of Epiphany. It means that we’re celebrating God’s revelation of Himself through his Son Jesus to all peoples. It also means that God continues to reveal his love, mercy, and faithfulness to us. Hence, we should not fear changes and new challenges. In fact, we should welcome them with great enthusiasm and renewed commitment to serve God and our fellow men and women.

Happy New Year to all! May God continue to grant you his blessings of love, peace, joy, health, success, and fulfillment!

May you have the strength and the courage to face the challenges of this year! *** Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.

Personal reflections during Advent and Christmas season Part 2 of 2

ernie d. delfin ON the 4th Sunday of Advent, four candles are lit signifying what is most needed in our preparation for Jesus birth: HOPE, PEACE JOY AND LOVE. At my age, who have had more than a fair share of the human experience of despair, turmoil or stress, sadness and hate, it is now much easier to live with hope, peace, joy and love; amidst what is going on in Washington DC and the rest of the world.

WHY? All these gifts can be experienced even without possessing lots of material things as they are not measured by the size of one’s mansion, price of one’s car and the contents of one’s bank accounts, simply because inner peace, joy and love are priceless. They are inside one’s soul and cannot be seen but felt.

Their radiance is often invisible to your neighbors but glow in the presence of your fellow believers who follow the teachings of the newly born Messiah, the Savior of our sinful world.

As the new year is just around the corner, if you find it very challenging to be JOYful and happy in your life. One recommendation that I can suggest respectfully to find it is by serving others less fortunate than you are. As past

Rotary International president Cliff Dochterman proclaimed, “Real Happiness is Serving Others,” a philosophy that hundreds of thousands of Rotarians heed, believe and practice every day throughout the world.

With countless of basic human needs that are unmet globally, however, there is still a massive need for people to become Servant Leaders, like us in the Catholic Prison Ministry who visit the prison and give hope, and share what life can be with God as our companion. Many of these sufferings and tribulations happen because human beings are often broken, when their paths are disconnected with God’s mercy and love. Many more volunteers are needed, as there is so much darkness in our world today. As a part of your New Year’s resolution, I challenge our dear readers who are not yet doing any Service Above Self to please consider volunteering in their communities in any humanitarian organizations..

Lastly, may I (again) share my CHRISTMAS PRAYER that was originally composed more than 25 years ago, that is still very relevant to this day: Christmas Day again and I feel all alone except with my thoughts, reliving where I have been, where I am now and where I want go

from here. Although I am a man, I can’ t help but become nostalgic with misty eyes, while composing this unorthodox Christmas prayer.

Oh Lord, Redeemer of the World, is this what it takes to be alive? To witness or undergo the endless depravations, and tribulations of humanity? Why can’t all your children be happy and at peace not only in dreams and words but also in reality? For since I’ve flown from parental nest, I think I have seen more human sadness and struggles than the joy and hope that Christmas traditionally brings.

During this festive Season celebrating the Nativity of the Savior of Men, it has always amazed me that people do unusual things to bring out their brotherly concern toward another; it continuously puzzles me why can’t your people show signs of love and charity every time? Tradition says, I was told, that’s the way it was, that’s the way it is, and that the mystery of Christmas time. And I asked in my prayer, but Lord, why not?

Dear God, I know I am just one creature who does not always understand and conform with what I see in this world, help me that in my desire to be a successful and strong leader, I may also be

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 4-7,2020

New law alert: longer paid family leave to take effect THE California Family Rights Act (CFRA) entitles employees who work in businesses of 50 or more employees, 12 weeks of leave from work. This benefit is provided when they have to care for their seriously ill child, parent or spouse, for birth of and bonding with a newborn, or for the adoption or foster care a child. Unless there are employer policies providing payment, the leave is generally unpaid.

However, California created a component under the State Disability Insurance (SDI) program which entitled employees to disability payments while they take time off work to: Care for a seriously ill child, spouse, parent, domestic partner, Bond with a new child, Bond child in connection with adoption or foster care placement.

The program, known as Paid Family Leave (PFL), is administered by the State Employment Development Department’s (EDD) Disability Insurance Branch. Employees covered by SDI are also covered for this benefit. The maximum claim benefit is six times the weekly benefit amount. Current law caps the PFL benefits at 6 weeks. This means no more than six weeks of PFL benefits may be paid within any 12month period.

However, starting July 1, 2020, Senate Bill 83 (SB 83) allows employees paying into the SDI program to claim up to

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. eight weeks in PFL. Additionally, the new law creates a task force to develop a PFL program that extends benefits to six months by 2022. An employee who is eligible for PFL benefits under this new law may claim up to eight weeks of family leave within a twelve-month period.

The PFL program does not provide job protection. However, employees are protected if they are covered by the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and CFRA. Employees who apply for paid family leave must provide a medical certificate of the seriously ill family member. The certificate must include a qualified diagnosis; the beginning date of the disability; the probable duration; the estimated time care is needed; and state the serious health condition requiring employee to provide care. This includes “providing psychological comfort” and arranging “third party care.”

An estimate of the amount of time necessary to provide care is also required. If another family member is able to provide care during the same period, the employee may not qualify for paid leave.

For bonding with a child, PFL is limited to the first year after the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.

There is a seven-day waiting period before benefits are paid.

Employers may require employees to use up to two weeks of vacation leave or paid time off (PTO) prior to receiving paid leave benefits. The first week of vacation or PTO will be applied to the waiting period.

Employees who are entitled to leave under the federal Family Medical Leave Act and the California Family Rights Act must take PFL concurrent with leave taken under those acts.

Employees cannot receive PFL benefits while receiving Disability Insurance, Unemployment Insurance, or Workers’ Compensation benefits that exceed their weekly benefit amount. *** The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic.

All inquiries are confidential and at no-cost. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit HYPERLINK “http://www.joesayaslaw.com” www. joesayaslaw.com. [C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully recovered wages and other monetary damages for thousands of employees and consumers.

He was named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a Presidential Awardee for Outstanding Filipino Overseas in 2018.]

(Advertising Supplement)

Seniors need CHP 13 as they retire; senior’s business needs CHP 7 while she needs CHP 13

SENIORS are husband and wife aged 70 and 65 – wife is a young and healthy 65; husband is a healthy 70 and still looks strong. Both are still working with good income. The husband grosses about $100K a year. The wife grosses about $70K a year.

With $170K gross for the household, there should be no financial problem, right? Wrong, but why? They owe $110K of credit card debt, which uses up about $4K of their monthly net income for minimum monthly payments!

They have been servicing these credit cards for, believe it or not, 20 years. From $20K, it grew yearly to $80K, then to $110K. They never paid off all the balances despite their good income.

I guess you just don’t think about the future and take the easier way out of monthly minimum payments.

Let’s say the cards stood at $110K for the last 10 years because it certainly looks like that from where we stand right now.

That’s $48K a year for minimum monthly credit card payments x 10 years. That’s a cool half a million dollars right there that they transferred over to their credit card masters! And how much do they owe right now after paying half a million dollars to MasterCard since 2008? They still owe the very same principal of $110K! Now what have they been thinking, really? That it’s ok to keep

Barrister’s Corner Atty. kenneth UrSUA reyeS THERE is never the perfect time to think about who you would like to inherit from your estate in case you pass away or at least who among your closest friends (BFFs) and family members are even deserving of inheriting from your estate. In doing so, you should also think about which vehicle you plan to use in implementing your estate plan. One of the best vehicle in implementing your estate plan is a revocable living trust. Five major benefits of establishing a revocable living trust are: Your estate can avoid the time, cost, and hassle of going through the probate court process.

If you pass away without a will (intestate) in California, one of your close family would have to file a petition in probate court to probate your estate. Your estate will be divided and distributed according to the California probate code rules of intestate succession. Even if you have a will when you pass away, your family would still need to file a petition in probate court if your estate is worth over $150,000 and go through the probate process. This can become a circus if certain beneficiaries contest the validity of the Will or the distribution of the estate. Your estate will pay for attorney’s fees, probate referee fees, appraisers and

Debt Relief

Atty. LAwrenCe yAng on paying $48K a month forever, until they die? Makes no sense whatsoever. Even Chairman Kim Jung Un knows that there this is a bad deal for them. Indeed, this is a very bad deal. It’s time to nuke these cards to where they belong, 6 feet under.

If clients had wiped these cards out in 2008, they would have $500K in their wealth portfolio right now, instead of $110K of credit card debt. But when push comes to shove, clients realize now at their age that these accumulated debts are sucking them dry. Fortunately for them, they also both have hefty retirement accounts to rely on.

But even hefty retirement accounts won’t be enough to solve their financial problem.

Their combined retirement accounts are close to $700K. The rule of thumb is you can use 4% of that taken from income generated, without diminishing the principal and still make the $700K grow yearly because the track record of the stock market is yearly growth of 7% annually in the last 100 years despite

stock market crashes in 1929 and 2007 when the market lost 50% of value. Those who did not liquidate but hung on to their equities came roaring back in the next couple of years to recover the losses and go beyond them.

Four percent of $700K is $28K of extra money for clients when they retire. The husband will be getting $2K of S.S., while wife will be getting $1500 of S.S. So, clients will be retiring with $24K from S.S. for husband, plus $18K for wife for a total of $42K a year from S.S. plus $28K income from their retirement portfolio of $700K. Clients will be quite comfortable when they retire with $70K of gross income yearly, or almost $6K a month. Their house mortgage is $2,500, leaving them a balance of $3,500 a month for the rest of the necessary monthly expenses of $2K. So, even in retirement, they will be saving $1,500 a month, or $18K a year, which they can add back into their retirement portfolio, right? So their retirement portfolio will keep growing until it reaches $1.0 M soon enough where they can draw $40K from a year. That’s really not bad, not bad at all.

But with the $110K of credit card debt, they will need $4K monthly for debt service. Even if their retirement income is $6K

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Five benefits of establishing a revocable living trust other experts, CPA fees, etc. If people contest the case, your estate would end up paying legal fees to defend the estate in litigation. The entire process can take anywhere from 9 months to years depending on the contentiousness of the probate case.

With a revocable living trust, your trustee or successor trustee if you were the initial trustee, would administer the trust and distribute the estate according to the trust document without having to open a probate court case.

If the trust is funded with all your assets, it is possible to administer and distribute the trust assets without any Court involvement at all. This process is a lot faster than going through probate.

Your estate is not public record When you file a probate case, the public has access to your probate case file. The public will know the assets of the estate including the values of those assets. If the Will is admitted into probate, the terms of the Will is open to public scrutiny.

Establishing a revocable living trust makes your estate affairs private. Strangers do not have access to the terms of your living trust. Only certain beneficiaries and possible heirs can request a copy of the revocable living trust after you pass away.

You can dictate who will inherit from your estate.

If you pass away without a Will, your estate will be divided

and distributed in Probate Court following the rules of intestate succession in the California probate code. Certain relatives will be entitled to a share of your estate even if you feel they are not deserving. By establishing a revocable living trust, you can designate who you want to inherit from your estate. You can designate what and how much each one will received from your estate after you pass away. The assets distributed to each beneficiaries does not have to be equal.

The people you designate as beneficiaries of your living trust does not even have to be close family members. You can designate anyone as a beneficiary, with certain exceptions, of your estate.

You can structure your estate to minimize estate taxes If your estate is valued above the estate tax exemption, establishing a trust can allow you to divide up your estate into smaller sub trusts to minimize the overall estate tax effect on your estate. It allows you to set up a vehicle for certain charitable giving which carries tax advantage and asset protection.

You can choose who will administer your estate after your death When you establish a revocable trust, you can appoint someone else as trustee or you can appoint a successor trustee if you are the initial trustee. The trustee will

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Permanent residence based on same sex marriage IN United States vs. Windsor, 570 U.S. 744 (2013), the Supreme Court held that Federal restrictions of the terms “marriage,” and “spouse” to marriages between a man and a woman were unconstitutional. The Court invalidated Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which did not allow Federal Government recognition of same-sex marriages under Federal laws, or for Federal programs.

After the Court’s decision in the Windsor case, the USCIS has considered same-sex, marriage-based immigrant petitions in the same way as those involving marriage with the opposite sex. As a result, a US citizen or permanent resident can petition his/her spouse or fiancé(e) to get a green card.

As with marriages between persons of the opposite sex, a valid marriage between a same-sex couple is required. The law of the place in which the marriage took place determines whether the marriage is valid for immigration purposes.

The same-sex couple does not need to be residents of the state or foreign country in which the marriage took place.

A civil union or domestic partnership cannot be the basis for a same-sex, marriage-based immigrant petition; a relationship legally considered to be a marriage where it took place establishes eligibility.

If the marriage occurred in a state or foreign country in which same-sex marriages are recognized, then the US citizen or permanent resident

Legal Advice Atty. DArriCk tAn spouse can file an I-130 petition and adjustment of status application (if the non-US citizen/permanent resident spouse is in the US) or immigrant visa application (if the non-US citizen/permanent resident spouse is outside the US). As with marriages between the opposite sex, the same-sex couple will

rival. After marriage, an I-485 adjustment of status application (changing status from K-1 to permanent resident) would need to be filed. Filing an I129f fiancé(e) petition is only available to a US Citizen and not a permanent resident.

For cases involving a permanent resident petitioner, the couple would need to find a foreign nation to which they can both travel and that recognizes same-sex marriages, and get married there. Thereafter, the permanent resident petitioner can file an I-130 petition on behalf of his/her spouse, who would undergo consular processing for an immigrant visa in the country of residency when available.

Certain other requirements exist to obtain permanent residence. It is also worth noting that eligibility for other immigration benefits are now available to a same-sex spouse. It is therefore recommended that you seek the advice of an experienced attorney. *** Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada.

Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles (CAALA), and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philippine American Bar Association (PABA). LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: 323-639-0277. Email: info@dtanlaw. com (Advertising Supplement)

“ A civil union or domestic partnership cannot be the basis for a same-sex, marriage-based immigrant petition.” need to demonstrate that the marriage is a real marriage and not merely for immigration purposes.

But what if the marriage has yet to occur, and the non-US citizen/permanent resident person in the relationship resides in a foreign country that does not recognize same-sex marriages, and cannot travel to the US? In such a case, a US citizen can file an I-129f petition for alien fiancé(e), which would allow his/her foreign national fiancé(e) to travel to the US under a K-1 visa to get married.

The couple would have to get married in a state that recognizes same-sex marriages within 90 days of the foreign national’s ar-

Personal reflections during Advent...

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compassionate and loving person, that this Christmas and in the coming years, I may become more sympathetic and understanding with those around me despite their divergent views of the world we share, as I fervently pray that other people would also your light and do what is right and not what is just convenient. This is my prayer for the world and

for all mankind.

Dear Lord, please hear these prayers from my heart and soul; I implore you especially that my health and my general well-being as well as those I care and love will be at its peak; that the basic material things that are necessary to be happy and fulfilled be provided for; that my hopes, fears and dreams in life are shared lovingly with

all my brothers and sisters in Christ, and that my life here on this Earth will have real purpose and meaning.

Oh dear Lord, my Savior, hear me — this is my CHRISTMAS PRAYER! *** Email: ernie.delfin@gmail.com Websites: www.gkerc.org www.pagudpudsands.com www.kannaway.com/5236768

C4 JANUARY 4-7, 2020 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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People & Events

The Feast of Santo Niño on January 19 in Los Angeles

SANTO Niño Cruzada USA is inviting all devotees of Santo Niño to come and join us in the 33rd year anniversary mass celebration of the Feast of Santo Nino, the Divine Infant Jesus, at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. The principal celebrant is Bishop Alex D.

Aclan. Please come early since the pre-liturgy will start around 3:00 p.m. Participants include the Knights of Columbus - Los Angeles District, Precious Blood and St. Kevin Church Choirs, Southern California Sinulog Dance Co and other dance groups and religious organizations. This mass will also be offered to honor the

Calendar of Events across

late Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, who gave the Santo Niño statue that is used to celebrate the annual feast, to Los Angeles Archbishop Emeritus Roger Cardinal Mahony and Monsignor Kevin Kostelnik several years ago. For more information, please contact Romy & Tess Esturas at (213) 387-6982. ■

America

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Feast of Infant Jesus of Prague in LA The public is all invited to a Special Celebration of the Feast of Infant Jesus of Prague on Saturday, January 11, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels (555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles. CA 90012). Bishop Alex Aclan will be the main celebrant. Bring your Infant Jesus Statue to touch the Holy Robe that the Holy Infant wears in the Shrine of Prague. The history of the devotion to the Miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague dates back more than four hundred years when the statue of the Holy Infant in the guise of a king was brought to Prague, Czech Republic. Miraculous healings were attributed to the Child Jesus, as was the protection of Prague when it was laid siege to by the Swedes in 1639. The mass event is sponsored by the Holy Trinity Ministry Fellowship.

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FACCGLA’s gala in Woodland Hills, CA The ‘Shining Shimmering Splendid Gala’ is the annual fundraising event of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Los Angeles (FACCGLA) on January 12, 2020 at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Woodland Hills. Everyone is welcome to attend to enjoy good food, music and dancing plus raffle prizes and other entertainment. Installation of the new President and Board precedes the merriment. Tickets are only $75 for all this enjoyment ($85 after Jan. 5), available online at www.faccgla.org, select ‘Events’ and select the Jan12 event. Sponsorships available. Venue address is 6360 Canoga Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. Email info@faccgla. org for inquiries.

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33rd year anniversary of Feast of Santo Niño in Los Angeles Santo Niño Cruzada USA is inviting all devotees of Santo Niño to come and join us in the 33rd year anniversary mass celebration of the Feast of Santo Nino, the Divine Infant Jesus, at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. The principal celebrant is Bishop Alex D. Aclan. Please come early since the pre-liturgy will start around 3:00 p.m. Participants include the Knights of Columbus - Los Angeles District, Precious Blood and St. Kevin Church Choirs, Southern California Sinulog Dance Co and other dance groups and religious organizations. This mass will also be offered to honor the late Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, who gave the Santo Niño statue that is used to celebrate the annual feast, to Los Angeles Archbishop Emeritus Roger Cardinal Mahony and Monsignor Kevin Kostelnik several years ago. For more information, please contact Romy & Tess Esturas at (213) 387-6982.

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2020 Filipino Policy Symposium in Hayward, CA The Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies and LEAD Filipino are inviting all interested nonprofit, grassroots, and student organizations to the 2020 Filipino Policy Symposium on Saturday, February 1. It will be held at Cal State University East Bay in Hayward, CA. Breakfast and registration begin at 9 a.m. with the conference from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join as Filipino organizations from across California come together to discuss issues affecting the community and determine which legislative bills/public policies to push during the upcoming 2020 Fil Advocacy Day in Sacramento. Tickets ($25 for General Admission and $15 for Student) can be purchased on Eventbrite at http://bit.ly/FilSymposium2020.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

FACCGLA gala on January 12 features performing artists and entrepreneurs

THE ballroom will be decked in shining, shimmering splendor as guests are invited to come in their dazzling best to the annual fundraiser of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater LA (FACCGLA) on Sunday, January 12.

The “Shining Shimmering Splendid Gala” will be held at the Hilton Woodland Hills, beginning at 6 p.m.

FACCGLA always strives to make its events enjoyable while getting some business done.

This 2020 will herald in a new president and board members with well-timed ceremonies interspersed with entertainment like dancing, raffles and live performances.

This year’s gala will open with live music from Jazz pianist Tateng Katindig, and songs for “auction” from LA Opera’s Sal Malaki and vocalist Annie Nepomuceno, who also happens to be the new president of FACCGLA. Nepomuceno has been performing in and producing Filipino American concerts at the Ford Theatres, the Aratani Theatre, the Alex Theatre and the Plaza Del Sol at CSUN among others.

She has a Holiday EP album available on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify.

Tateng Katindig is a renowned jazz pianist from the famed Katindig family of musicians. His father is famed jazz saxophonist Eddie Katindig, and composer/ pianist Boy Katindig is his uncle. Tateng has been playing in mainstream jazz ensembles in concerts and festivals both locally and internationally. He has released several albums in the U.S. and is a popular music director, having led the shows with David Pomeranz, Joey Albert, and Ogie Alcasid, among others.

Sal Malaki has done over 100 performances at the Los Angeles Opera in various roles. He performs recitals all over the world, where he gets to include his Filipino repertoire. This 2019 he performed Philippine National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab’s music, accompanied by the Maestro himself.

Guests at the gala can bid on whether he will sing the famous tenor aria “Nessun Dorma,” or “O Sole Mio.”

Annie Nepomuceno

Sal Malaki

Tateng Katindig

Also to be given on January 12 are Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, given to those who have made a positive representation of Filipino Americans, inspirational progress and visibility. They are nominated and evaluated by the Board of Directors of FACCGLA. Dinner will be served during the Board installation, presided over by Philippine Consul General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz. and

outgoing President Ellen Samson. Prizes will be raffled off before the dance floor opens.

Everyone is welcome to attend. Tickets are $75 until January 5, $85 thereafter, available at www.faccgla.org. Please RSVP by January 10. Contact info@faccgla.org for more information. Valet parking is $8 with validation. Venue address is 6360 Canoga Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. ■

Relief for denied naturalization...

PAGE C2 t of good moral character during the 5-year statutory period immediately preceding the application for Naturalization up to the time of the Oath of Allegiance, the applicant should just wait to reapply for N-400 until 5 years has expired until the incident giving rise to the lack of good moral character determination.

For example, if the naturalization applicant is a male green card holder who received his green card between the ages of 18 and

26 and failed to register with the U.S. Selective Service System, it is recommended that the applicant wait until he is 31 years old to file a new N-400 Application for Naturalization. *** ATTY. RHEA SAMSON is the principal of SAMSON LAW FIRM, PC. She has been a member of the State Bar of California for over 15 years and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines for over 20 years. Atty.

Samson received her Legal Management degree from the Ateneo de Manila University and her Juris Doctor degree

from the Ateneo Law School. She was a Professor for over 10 years, teaching Obligations and Contracts, Labor Laws and Social Legislation and Taxation Law. Atty Samson is the author of The Law on Obligations and Contracts (2016), Working with Labor Laws-Revised Edition (2014) and Working with Labor Laws (2005).

SAMSON LAW FIRM, P.C., 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1710, Los Angeles, CA 90010; Phone: (213) 381-5710; Email: HYPERLINK “mailto:info@samsonlawfirmpc.com” info@samsonlawfirmpc. com.

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Five benefits of establishing a revocable...

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be administering (managing) the trust after you pass away without a need to open a probate court case. This allows for continuity in operating the trust and the efficient and cost effective distribution of estate assets. If you are concerned about whether you can trust any family members as your trustee, you can appoint an institution as a professional trustee to carry out the terms of the declaration of trust. These type of trustee services are often offered by banks, financial institutions, wealth management firms, and business management firms for a reasonable fee. This mini-

mizes conflicts within the family and prevents negligence and wrong doing by inexperienced family members. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.

The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.

This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed.

The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. ***

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kenneth@kenreyeslaw.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com (Advertising Supplement)

Seniors need CHP 13 as they retire...

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a month, credit card debt service wipes out almost 70% of their income! That doesn’t sound good… no sir, it doesn’t sound good at all.

Clients seek Chapter 7 wipe out of the $110K when husband retires in one month. But they also own a home with $300K of equity. This means that after their homestead exemption of $175K, there is still non-exempt equity of $125K. So, Chapter 7 is out of the question.

In Chapter 7, clients will lose their house even as they realize $175K of cash. Even Chairman Kim Jung Un knows that Chapter 7 will be a bad deal for clients. So, the clients must use Chapter 13 instead to handle the $110K of cards without incurring any risk of losing their house. A Chapter 13 plan will allow them to pay off their credit cards debts over 60 months without any interest. In 5 years, they will owe zero of credit cards so

they enjoy their entire retirement income of $6K a month without having to worry about paying another cent to MasterCard or visa.

The next client is 66. She just bought a house with $200K down but owes $400K mortgage on it.

The problem is that she owns two businesses that are losing tons of money. She is very worried that suppliers will start suing the company for unpaid debt. Well, that’s easily solved with Chapter 7 for each company. The second problem is that she personally guaranteed the lease of the warehouse for $10K a month and there is 3 more years on the lease. How many times must I tell readers that they should never personally guarantee businesses leases or business debts?

The client is on the hook for $360K on the personal guaranty of the lease. Fortunately for her, she can do a Chapter 13 to handle that. In Chapter 13, she will have

to pay $25K of the personal guaranty over 60 months without any risk of losing her house. That is a great financial reorganization for her. She wipes out $335K of the personal guaranty if she completes 60 payments of $500 a month to the trustee. The bankruptcy court will enter an order discharging the $335K soon after completion of plan payments.

If you need debt relief, set an appointment to see me. I will analyze your case personally. *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in Bankruptcy, Business, Real Estate and Civil Litigation, and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789 or 1000 S. Fremont Ave., Mailstop 58, Building A-10 South Suite 10042, Alhambra, CA 91803.

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Will signing an untrue BSP chief looks forward to even better 2020 confession help your case?

Immigration Corner

by LAWRENCE

AGCAOILI Philstar.com

ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ MANY people have consulted with me after their case has been denied by a USCIS officer or consul at the Embassy. In some cases, the person has signed a confession, but claim it was not true. I asked them that if it was not true, why did they sign it?

They reply the USCIS officer or consul told them, “It will be good for your case if you sign this.”

Trusting the officer or consul, the person dutifully signed the confession, relying on the officer’s assurance that by signing it, it would be helpful.

But helpful to whom? Signing a confession would certainly be helpful to the government, as that would help support and justify a denial or refusal. But I cannot see where confessing to something a person did not do would ever be helpful to their case.

Sometimes, a loving couple is in a good faith marriage, and yet sign a confession that it’s a fixed marriage. There have been other cases where a person, under petition by an employer, “confesses” they will repay the employer for all immigration costs, even though the employer is shouldering all costs, because the consul told them “it will be helpful for

“ Signing a confession would certainly be helpful to the government, as that would help support and justify a denial or refusal.” your case if you sign.”

Certainly, if a person is not entitled to an immigration benefit, they should not be applying in the first case. If they are caught, a denial could be justified. But a person should not be tricked or entrapped into signing something that is not true because of assurances that by signing an untrue confession it would be “helpful” to their case.

That is why if you are being pressured into signing confessions or statements that are not true, you should not do so.

Once they are signed, it is very hard to retract or take back that signed confession and it is likely to be accepted as true. Instead, if you are asked to sign a statement, you should first have your attorney review the contents for accuracy and truthfulness. The bottom line is a person should of course be truthful and apply for immigration benefits only if they are entitled. But if that’s the case, they should not be signing confessions, admitting to things that are untrue because they felt that they were pressured or per-

suaded that it would help their case. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars 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 and results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-4873465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

Business Quote of the Week “I always did something I was a little not ready to do. I think that’s how you grow. When there’s that moment of ‘Wow, I’m not really sure I can do this,’ and you push through those moments, that’s when you have a breakthrough.”

— Marissa Mayer, former CEO of Yahoo

LAST year was bittersweet for the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) after losing the captain of its ship, Nestor Espenilla Jr., in February to tongue cancer at the age of 60, barely nine months into his six-year term as the head of the country’s central bank.

Former budget secretary Benjamin Diokno was named as the new central bank governor, continuing the battle against high inflation and pursuing reforms in the country’s banking sector.

Diokno, armed with a doctorate degree in economics, is optimistic the Philippines could fare better in 2020 after a temporary setback last year, prompted by the delayed implementation of the 2019 national budget.

Due to the budget impasse as well as the tightening cycle by the BSP in 2018 and the US-China trade war, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth averaged 5.8 percent from January to September last year, lower than the revised six to 6.5 percent target set by economic managers.

Diokno points out the Philippines has one of the fastest growing and most resilient economy in the world.

According to the BSP chief, the country’s GDP is likely to expand between 6.4 and 6.5 percent in the fourth quarter of the year,

Former budget secretary Benjamin Diokno, now the governor of the BSP. Philstar.com file photo

bringing the full-year growth to six percent this year from 6.2 percent in 2018 amidst a synchronized global slowdown.

“The Philippines is in a very nice place right now,” Diokno assures.

Better 2020 The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) expects the country’s economy to expand between 6.5 and 7.5 percent in 2020.

“I am very optimistic that 2020 will be even better,” Diokno says.

Inflation averaged 2.5 percent from January to November despite picking up to hit a three-month high of 1.3 percent in November, bottoming out to hit a 43-month

low of 0.8 percent in October.

This allowed the central bank’s Monetary Board to slash interest rates by 75 basis points, partially unwinding a tightening cycle that saw benchmark rates jump by 175 basis points in 2018.

Inflation accelerated to 5.2 percent in 2018 from 2.9 percent in 2017 and exceeded the BSP’s two to four percent target, due to elevated oil and rice prices as well as weak peso. It peaked at 6.7 percent in September and October 2018.

Based on its latest assessment, Diokno said the BSP’s Monetary Board would average 2.4 percent in 2019 before picking up to 2.9 PAGE D2

Peso seen to strengthen further to 50:$1 in 2020 after six straight years of depreciation. The local currency gained 3.7 percent to settle at THE peso may strengthen fur- 50.635 to $1 in 2019 from 52.58 ther to 50 to $1 this year and to in 2018.

48.50 to $1 in 2021 despite the “However, a higher share of excountry’s higher demand for ternal funding for infrastructure dollars to support the growing projects, sustained improvement economy. in tourist arrivals, expectations of “We expect the peso to con- better export performance, and tinue appreciating over 2020, subdued oil prices are likely to reaching 50 by year-end,” ANZ counter the import-led pressures said in a report. on the currency,” ANZ said.

The peso emerged as the secThe government has earond best performing currency in marked between P8 trillion and Asia after the Thai baht in 2019 P9 trillion to finance its massive

by LAWRENCE

AGCAOILI Philstar.com

infrastructure Build Build Build program.

The investment bank expects the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth to pick up to 6.2 percent in 2020 and 2021 after slumping to 5.8 percent last year from 6.2 percent in 2018.

It also sees inflation averaging 2.9 percent in 2020 and 3.1 percent in 2021 after easing to 2.5 percent in 2019 from 5.2 percent in 2018.

“Better growth prospects, alongside a range bound increase PAGE D2

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Dominguez: Passage of tax bills Jollibee strengthens digital efforts needed to secure ‘A’ credit rating

by TyrOne Jasper

C. piad

ManilaTimes.net

by Ben

O. de Vera Inquirer.net

The passage of pending economic bills in Congress, including further opening up the economy to foreign capital and taxation reforms, would augur well for the Philippines’ goal to achieve “A” credit ratings by 2022, the head of the Duterte administration’s economic team said.

In a statement, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III said the prompt approval of tax reform packages “plus other pending economic reforms” will help secure an “A” credit rating for the Philippines in two years.

Dominguez said that in the case of debt watcher S&P Global Ratings, it indicated last year that the Philippines’ upgraded ‘BBB+’ credit rating may further be raised “if the government makes significant further achievements in its fiscal reform program.”

“Another factor is a determination of a marked improvement in the Philippines’ institutional settings,” Dominguez added, quoting S&P. The economic team was embarking on a roadmap to “A” credit ratings in order to slash borrowing costs given that the Philippines would move up to upper middle-income status this year.

Once the Philippines becomes an upper middle-income coun-

try—defined by the World Bank as having per capita income above $3,956—in 2020, it will lose by 2022 the access to preferential interest rates that it was currently enjoying whenever it borrows from its bilateral partners and multilateral institutions.

Dominguez earlier said that the DOF will make a big push for the passage of the remaining packages of the Duterte administration’s comprehensive tax reform program in 2020.

The DOF had already succeeded in passing the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act as well as the ongoing amnesty programs on tax delinquency and estate.

The DOF is awaiting Preident

JOLLIBEE Foods Corp. (JFC) is strengthening its digital initiatives this year to offer better customer experience.

“There are a lot of plans to introduce some digital platforms,” JFC Vice President for Restaurant Systems Jon Villanueva said in a recent interview.

Villanueva said that one of the focus would be the improvement of JFC’s online ordering system.

“We will continuously invest on those platforms that would make ordering for the customers much easier,” he said.

This, as JFC plans to introInquirer.net file photo duce a better digital payment platform, he added.

Rodrigo Duterte’s signatures on Earlier, the food giant said it several more tax reform pack- was eyeing to roll out self-orderages that included higher excise ing kiosks in over 200 branches on alcohol and tobacco. next year. The said feature was Only three more packages set to be available in nearly 70 remain pending in the legisla- stores in 2019. ture—Corporate Income Tax and Incentives Reform Act (Citira), the Passive Income and Financial Intermediary Taxation Act (Pifita), and land valuation re- PAGE D1 t form. percent in 2020 and 2021.

Also part of the comprehenThe BSP chief has said upside sive tax reform program, al- risks to inflation over the near though not of high priority for term emanate mainly from potenthe DOF, were the planned gen- tial volatility in international oil eral tax amnesty, which must prices amid geopolitical tensions include lifting of bank secrecy in the Middle East as well as from for tax purposes and automatic the potential impact of the African exchange of information as well Swine Fever outbreak and recent as higher mining taxes and mo- weather disturbances on domestic tor vehicle users’ tax. n food prices.

On the other hand, uncertainty over trade policies in major economies would continue to weigh on global economic activity and demand, and could thus mitigate upward pressures on commodity prices.

Aside from the reduction of interest rates, the central bank also lowered the level of deposits banks are required to keep with the central bank by 400 basis points for big and mid-sized banks, and by 200 basis points for small banks to free up additional funds into the financial system to boost economic activity.

The late BSP governor had committed to bring down the ultra high reserve requirement ratio to Philstar.com file photo single digit by 2023. The level has It also sees the BSP further been reduced by 600 basis points lowering the reserve require- since 2018.

BSP signals 50 bps cut, slower ment ratio for big, mid-sized, and small banks as part of its RRR reduction Diokno has hinted the BSP could commitment to bring down the reduce interest rates further by 50 level to single digit by 2023. n

Peso seen to strengthen further...

PAGE D1 t in inflation, are also expected to support portfolio inflows into the economy. A key risk to our view is from the potential second round impact of higher fiscal spending on private incomes, which can in turn enhance demand for capital and consumer goods imports,” ANZ said.

However, it said that is unlikely to be immediate or of the magnitude seen in the last couple of years, thus keeping the peso relatively unaffected.

The benign inflation environment and slower-than-expected GDP growth allowed the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to slash interest rates by 75 basis points last year, partially unwinding a tightening cycle that saw benchmark rates by 175 ba-

sis points in 2018.

ANZ said it expects a two 25 basis points rate cuts this year given the mix of sub-potential growth and manageable inflation.

Maniltimes.net file photo

Villanueva said that self-order transactions now comprise 70 percent of the total orders in some stores.

The JFC official, however, stressed that these kiosks will never eliminate face-to-face transactions as other customers still prefer this.

Apart from Jollibee brand, JFC was also looking forward to

implementing the same system for Chowking and Burger King, Villanueva added.

Jollibee is aiming to launch 100 additional stores in 2020.

JFC saw its net income in the first nine months drop by 25.5 percent to P4.53 billion from year-earlier P6.09 billion due to losses from Smashburger and Red Ribbon. n

BSP chief looks forward to even better... basis points in 2020 as central banks around the world continued to pursue monetary easing.

However, the central bank intends to resume the reduction of the RRR level albeit rather at a slower pace.

Authorities, Diokno say only need to lower the RRR by 500 basis points over four years to bring it down to a single digit level of nine percent.

“We are happy where we are.

We are looking at a slower pace for RRR cuts but we are looking at reducing interest rates by at least 50 basis points. Whether that will come in the first quarter or second quarter, we will see. That is better than being deliberately vague,” the BSP chief added.

Between P90 billion to P100 billion worth of liquidity are released into the financial system for every percentage point reduction in the level of deposits banks are required to keep with the central bank.

“At the moment we are very comfortable where we are. The economy is doing well, inflation is low, unemployment is low, the gross international reserves is at all-time high, and the exchange rate is stable,” Diokno said.

Maysita Crystallin, economist at DBS Bank Ltd. of Singapore, predicts the BSP is likely to slash interest rates only by 25 basis points

in the first quarter as inflation would pick up to 3.5 percent next year from about 2.8 percent this year due to the low base effect as well as higher economic activity.

“Yet, we think it is unlikely for inflation to exceed the BSP’s upper limit of four percent, providing BSP with room for another 25 basis points cut, most likely in 1Q 2020, before inflation starts picking up,” Crystallin said.

The Singaporean bank sees the GDP growth of the Philippines accelerating to 6.3 percent in 2020 and 2021 after weakening further to 5.9 percent in 2019 from 6.2 percent in 2018.

Euben Paracuelles, ASEAN economists at Nomura Securities Ltd., for his part, says, the central bank’s Monetary Board is likely to keep interest rates untouched in 2020 as inflation is likely to rise to 3.1 percent in 2020 and 3.3 percent, but expects a 200 basis points reduction in the RRR. “We, therefore, continue to forecast BSP will keep its policy rate unchanged at four percent throughout 2020, after delivering a total of 75 basis points in 2019.

Nomura sees the country’s GDP growth accelerating to 6.7 percent in 2020 and 6.8 percent in 2021 from about six percent in 2019.

“In our view, 2020 presents a more conducive environment than PAGE D3

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DOT eyes Philippine brand for wellness IMF sees PH potential as key market for

cryptocurrency, other internet-based wealth

by CAtherine

tALAVerA Philstar.com

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) is eyeing to create a Philippine wellness brand, in line with efforts to expand the country’s tourism offerings.

In an interview, Tourism Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado III told The STAR that the department is looking to first identify the distinct characteristic of the Philippine brand of wellness.

“First, we need to identify what the Philippine brand of wellness really is and later let’s advocate it,”Alabado said.

While the country has yet to come up with its own brand of wellness, Alabado said the DOT is already helping some Philippine medical institutions promote their medical tourism offerings.

“We have at least 15 hospitals and clinics that are internationally accredited. We’re helping them promote their clinics so that the Philippines can also be known in medical tourism,” Alabado said.

Alabado earlier said the Philippines is already a provider of medical services to some countries in the Pacific, noting the country’s cost-effective offerings.

“Their citizens come to the Philippines for medical purposes,” Alabado said.

“We have some of the most costeffective medical checkups. Then we have dental tourism which is

by Ben

o. de VerA Inquirer.net

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged the Philippines to improve collection of transaction data for crypto assets as the country is seen attracting more players into this emerging financial creature.

“The Philippines may become an important market for crypto assets,” said the IMF in a technical assistance report on monetary and financial data mission to the Philippines completed in July 2019.

The IMF noted that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) had already authorized the operations Bengzon said medical tourism falls under health and wellness tourism, one of the 10 products of three more virtual currency exidentified under the National Tourism Development Plan 2016 to 2022. DOT released photo changes (VCEs), bringing the total also fast growing. We have peo- government policies and pri- number of licensed VCEs to 10. ple coming from Australia just for vate sector initiatives across the An updated list on the BSP’s their dental works,” he added. world. website showed that it already Alabado also identified balik“Countries have recognized the approved a total of 13 VCEs as of bayans from the U.S. and Canada opportunities that medical tour- end-October 2019. as another potential market for ism brings as a catalyst for social To date, the VCE service prothe country’s medical tourism and economic development and viders with licenses from the BSP offerings.Based on a report from its potential to support quality included Betur Inc. (Coins.ph), the World Travel and Tourism education, highly skilled workers, Council (WTTC), the Philippines favorable visa policies, promoranks 24th among the top coun- tion of a country’s attractiveness, tries in inbound medical tourism and well-developed infrastrucspending, with spending totaling ture within a country,” the WTTC PAGE D2 t to $69 million in 2017. in 2019 for the economy to thrive, said.

The report emphasized that “As more governments recog- despite the likely persistence of exmedical tourism has become an nize these benefits and develop ternal uncertainty. The mid-term important niche market over re- strategies and policies for this elections, as expected, proved an cent years, supported by various PAGE D5 interruption to the passing of the next phase of the fiscal reforms, but the administration gained more support in both houses of Congress,” Paracuelles said.

Road to “A” Monetary and fiscal authorities are working doubly hard to pursue reforms to push the Philippines to its next stage of development.

Diokno said the country continues to enjoy investment grade credit ratings from S&P Global Ratings, Moody’s Investors Service, and Fitch Ratings, and is on the cusp of becoming an upper middle income economy.

“With the reform momentum, we expect the Philippines to become an A-rated economy in the next two years or so, and to become a high income economy by 2040,” the BSP chief said.

S&P Global Ratings upgraded the country’s credit rating to BBB+, or just a notch below the Manilatimes.net file photo much coveted A rating, last April because you have a major show particularly Doha, Qatar, Lithua- on the back of the country’s aboveaverage economic growth, healthy wherein the buyers would come nia and Russia.

In Southeast Asia, she said external position, and sustainable every year,” she said.

Bituin said they are looking at Malaysia is also a “very good public finance despite global ecoexploring new export markets, PAGE D5 nomic challenges.

Furniture makers eye 10-15% growth

by AnnA LeAh

e. GonzALes ManilaTimes.net

LOCAL furniture manufacturers are optimistic on sales growing by at least 10 to 15 percent in 2020, as they penetrate more overseas markets while tapping the growing domestic market.

“The plan of the industry to go on a massive marketing strategy.

Our target is to go to 10 markets for three years. That’s where we feel the buyers can really feel our presence because that is important,” Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport) trustee for the furniture sector Myrna Bituin said.

She also cited the importance of strong product development for export markets.

“Product development is very, very important. It should never be considered just a part but it’s an integral part of your business to have product development

Rebittance Inc., Bloomsolutions Inc., Virtual Currency Philippines Inc., Etranss Remittance International Corp., Fyntegrate Inc., Zybi Tech Inc., Bexpress Inc., Coinville Philippines Inc., Aba Global Philippines Inc., Bitan Moneytech Co. Ltd. Inc., Telcoin Corp., and Atomtrans Tech Corp.

“The mission encourages the BSP to start exploring the possibility of collecting data on these exchanges for macroeconomic analysis, in particular international financial flows using cryptoassets,” the IMF report released on Dec. 30, 2019 read.

“The mission suggests requesting aggregated data, on a quarterly basis, on gross transactions, indicating the country of origin and destination of the funds transacted,” the IMF report said.

“In addition, it would be useful to breakdown the parties involved in the transactions between individuals, financial corporations, and nonfinancial corporations,” the IMF said.

According to an Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) report titled “Cryptoassets in Asia: Consumer attitudes, behaviors and experiences” published last December, a majority of Filipinos had been aware of cryptocurrencies even as actual holdings remained low due to perceived risks from these digital assets.

Results of an online survey conducted in February and March last year showed that level of awareness of cryptocurrencies in the Philippines was 74 percent, ranging from “very well” (17 percent of respondents), and “to some extent” (20 percent), to “not very well” (27 percent).

A lower 38 percent of Filipino respondents had been also aware of so-called initial coin offerings (ICOs), a form of crowdfunding using cryptocurrencies.

However, only 32 percent said they currently owned cryptoassets, while just 14 percent were ICO investors. n

BSP chief looks forward to even better...

Both Moody’s Investor Service and Fitch Ratings retained the country’s credit rating at Baa2 and BBB, respectively, or one notch above minimum investment grade.

Diokno cites that both unemployment and poverty levels are at historic lows.

“Unemployment is at its historic low. I have not seen this kind of unemployment numbers in my life at 4.5 percent and then even underemployment is much, much better. It used to be double digit in the upper 20s now it is really down,” Diokno said.

Latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed the poverty incidence rate in the country dropped to 16.6 percent in 2018 from about 23 percent in 2015.

“To me that is roughly two percent every year, that is unprecedented, that kind of reduction. So we are very optimistic that maybe before the end of this administration’s term, poverty incidence will be in the neighborhood of 10 percent,” Diokno said.

PH banks remain sound and stable The BSP chief insists the country’s banking system remains sound and stable.

“With healthy indicators, includ-

ing more-than-adequate capitalization and low exposure to bad debts, banks are able to help fund the growing investment requirements in the economy,” Diokno said.

Data showed assets of Philippine banks increased by 6.6 percent to P17.86 trillion as of end-October this year from P16.76 trillion as of end October last year.

Additionally, earnings of the country’s banking industry surged 30 percent to P171.16 billion in end September this year from P131,53 billion in end September last year.

Bank lending went up by 8.8 percent to P8.71 trillion in end October this year from P8 trillion in end October last year.

“This bodes well for sustained growth. Robust lending growth has consistently come along maintenance of good quality of loans, reflecting observance of prudent lending standards,” the pro growth BSP governor added.

Bring BSP closer to the people Diokno remains steadfast in bringing the BSP closer to Filipinos who are its ultimate stakeholders.

“The BSP’s public communication will underscore that its promotion of price stability, financial stability, and an effective payments system is aimed at enhancing the economic and financial well being of Filipinos,” he concluded. n

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PH banks’ deposit liabilities Government urged to harness power rose 5.7% in Sept – PDIC of internet platform services

by MayVelin

U. CaraBallO ManilaTimes.net

The total domestic deposit liabilities of the Philippine banking industry rose to P13.09 trillion as of end-September but recorded a slower growth pace from a year ago, according to Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) data on Thursday, January 2.

The state-run deposit insurer said deposit liabilities increased

by P710.6 billion, or 5.7 percent from P12.38 trillion a year ago.

But the year-on-year increase as of September was slower than the 9.6 percent growth during the same period in 2018. “The continuing slowdown in year-on-year growth of deposit amount largely reflects the strong demand for high-interest deposit substitutes, such as government securities,� PDIC explained.

By type of lenders, it said domestic deposit liabilities expanded only 7.0 percent in commercial banks (KBs).

The deposit amount in rural banks, however, was generally unaffected by the shifting demand as its domestic deposit amount grew 6.2-percent faster than last year’s 5.1 percent, the deposit insurer added.

Meanwhile, it noted that the 9.2-percent decline in domestic deposit liabilities of thrift banks is by and large caused by the merger of one thrift bank with its parent commercial bank.

The PDIC also reported a 15.1percent increase in total domestic deposit accounts to reach P70.5 million as of end-September. “RBs posted the highest annual growth in deposit accounts at 31.5 percent, followed by KBs at 15.3 percent, while that of TBs

contracted by 4.8 percent due to the reason cited above,� PDIC said.

Savings deposits and time deposits were the main types of deposit products, which jointly accounted for 73.9 percent of the total domestic deposit during the period.

Individuals and private corporations made up 79.2 percent of the total domestic deposits in the industry, while 13.7 percent belonged to the government.

PDIC said fully insured deposit accounts, or deposit accounts with balances within its maximum deposit insurance coverage of P500,000, comprised 96.5 percent of the total domestic deposit accounts and represented 11.4 percent of the total.

This is equivalent to P1.5 trillion, down by 1.4 percent from the same period in 2018. n

London think tank says poor roads, port infra slowing PH manufacturing

by Ben

O. de Vera Inquirer.net

POOR roads and port infrastructure were partly the reasons for the modest growth of the Philippines’ manufacturing sector and a slow pace of factory output increase, according to a Londonbased think tank.

IHS Markit Ltd on Thursday (Jan. 2) said the Philippines’ factory output increased but at its slowest pace in 27 months due to poor roads and port infrastructures.

The latest IHS Markit Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index showed that the seasonally adjusted Philippine manufacturing index (PMI) inched up to 51.7 percent last December from 51.4 percent in November 2019.

A PMI score above 50 meant there was an overall increase in manufacturing activity.

The higher December headline PMI was “signalling another modest improvement in manufacturing conditions that was in line with the average seen for the year,� IHS Markit said in a report. “The improvement was partly driven by a solid rise in new orders received by Filipino manufacturers, with the rate of growth

by Czeriza

ValenCia Philstar.com

STATE-run think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) is urging the government to address market and labor issues emanating from the use of platform services.

In a statement, the policy research body said such services that include applications for ride hailing like Grab and Uber, as well as accommodation booking like Airbnb, offered flexible working schedules and enabled the maximized use of personal assets, development of new products and services and even careers.

However, this also enabled the displacement of workers and service providers and, in some cases, paved the way for the “virtual monopoly of a platform owner.�

PIDS senior research fellow Jose Ramon Albert said the government must strictly implement regulations that promote fair competition, promote decent working conditions, and protect consumer rights.

At the same time, he reminded regulators to strike a balance and

PIDS senior research Jose Ramon Albert Photo courtesy of psd.pids.gov.ph

“not to frustrate these innovative developments.�

Another research fellow, Francis Quimba, said the government must also be mindful of the effect of the widening digital divide as platform services flourish. This pertains to the gap between those who have ready access to these services via the internet and those who don’t for various reasons.

He also noted that as economies become highly connected, digital activities tend to focus

more on social media and social connectivity while less resources are used for trade and social activity.

As more Filipinos work in the on-demand gig economy produced by these service platforms, gender gap issues also arise as there are more opportunities in this economy for men than women.

This is because more male workers can be found in transport and food delivery while more women are engaged in occupations related to housework services.

Albert said these gaps can be addressed if these is sufficient data to help understand and measure the reach of the platform economy. “Measurement of digital products and transactions, especially platforms, could improve the accuracy of various statistics such as inflation, productivity, as well as other economic and financial statistics,� he said.

To measure the platform economy, Albert suggested establishing a clearer definition of online platforms as well as identifying key data and statistical indicators to be measured. n

DOT eyes Philippine brand...

Inquirer.net file photo

strengthening slightly from November,� said the IHS Markit report. “Alongside a broad-based increase in sales, firms noted a slight upturn in new work from foreign clients, marking only the second monthly expansion in seven months,� IHS Markit said.

The think tank, however, said the growth in manufacturers’ production output fell to its lowest since September 2017. “While stronger sales helped businesses to expand output overall, some firms mentioned that delays in input deliveries and difficulties in sourcing raw materials curtailed production,� IHS Markit said. “Traffic issues were again a key factor influencing supplier delivery times, although panelists noted that typhoons and conges-

tion at Manila port also contributed to the slowdown,� IHS Markit added.

Typhoons Tisoy and Ursula battered the Philippines in December.

In a statement, IHS Markit economist David Owen said that “most notably for manufacturers are clear supply-side issues that are restricting output.� “Growing road and port congestion, particularly in Manila, remain a key feature of businesses’ concerns,� it said.

The Philippine government had sought to address bottlenecks in supply chains, including port congestion, through its ambitious “Build, Build, Build� program.

Production, however, is being limited in the meantime and “may remain so until these issues have been addressed,� said Owen. n

PAGE D3 t sub-sector, WTTC expects that with the right policies, support and regulation, medical tourism can continue to grow across developed and emerging economies,� it added.

Tourism Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. earlier identified dental procedures, along with executive checkups, as among the medical treatments the Philippines has to offer that could attract more health and wellness tourists into the country.

“In the case of medical tourism, we’ve identified the priority treatments which we feel the Philippines can become competitive in, taking into consideration availability of our medical professionals and frontliners, price competitiveness, etc,� Bengzon said.

Among the priority treatments include executive checkup, opthalmology, aesthetics and dental, cardiology and minimally invasive surgery.

Bengzon said medical tourism falls under health and wellness

tourism, one of the 10 products identified under the National Tourism Development Plan 2016 to 2022.

In line with the development of the medical tourism sector, Bengzon said the DOT continues to talk to hospitals providing the priority treatments. “Some of them are already very aggressive in promoting abroad,�

Bengzon said.

He said that some hospitals participate in the DOT’s roadshows abroad. n

Furniture makers eye 10-15%...

PAGE D3 t market� for the local furniture makers.

Bituin said that at present, the United States remains their biggest export market. Japan is also a huge market for furniture exports. “I think [our trade consuls], we will be working in partnership

with them. We have to invest really like the foreign trips. Again, our trade consuls will be of great help to us,� she said. “One of the things the industry can do is forge partnerships. We are not opponents. The industry should harmonize with one another when it comes to projects,� she added.

Bituin said furniture manufacturers have been very active both locally and internationally. “Fortunately, as we can see, not only new hotels but (existing) hotels are refurbishing. All big hotels, they are now refurbishing, not only the furniture but the indoors (items) and that makes them really busy,� said Bituin. n

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