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Volume 11 – Issue 16 • 16 Pages

J A N U A R Y 2 6 - F E BR U A R Y 1 , 2 0 1 8

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USA

DATELINE Las Vegas shooter methodically planned to ‘thwart’ investigation, new documents say FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Information on Filipina girlfriend included

Stephen Paddock

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Duterte tells troops: ‘Shoot me if I become a dictator’

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has told the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to shoot him if he becomes a dictator or stays in power

beyond his term expiration in 2022.

The president made the remark in his speech during an army base visit on Monday, January 22, in Compostela Valley province.

“Kapag ako sumobra sa aking termino, isang araw lang (If I extend my term of office, even for a day), I am

now asking the [AFP] and the PNP not to allow me or anybody else to mess up with the Constitution,” Duterte said.

The president further stressed that it is both the military and the police’s “solemn duty” to “protect the Constitution and the people.”

“Kaya ako ‘pag sumobra, gusto kong mag-diktador, barilin ninyo ako.

Hindi ako nagbobola (If I overstay and wanted to become a dictator, shoot me, I am not joking),” he added.

Duterte had repeatedly said in the past that he has no intention of going

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Marilou Danley

Photos courtesy of Las Vegas Metropolitan Police

RECENTLY released court documents regarding the 2017 Las Vegas shooting provide new information on the gunman’s activities prior to carrying out what became the deadliest mass shooting in modern history.

The documents, however, do not provide a motive as to why gunman Stephen Paddock fired bullets over the 22,000 attendees of the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas, killing 58 people and injuring over 500.

The shooting began at around 10:08

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Filipina accused of passport fraud in Las Vegas A 41-year-old Filipina may face up to 20 years in jail if proven guilty after she was arrested for allegedly forging IDs and passports in Las Vegas.

The woman, who authorities Rachelle Miclat identified as Photo courtesy of Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Rachelle Miclat, was found to have had in her house an “active forgery lab” complete with printing equipment, laminating machines, ink, and multiple forged passports and IDs, according to a report by The Filipino Channel’s “Balitang America.”

Authorities said a Nevada driver’s license with the alias name “Rachelle Tylo” was also found in her house and is being investigated.

EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jensen Inquirer.net photo

PH formally turns down P380-M EU aid

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

THE Philippine government has formally rejected assistance projects amounting to at least P380 million or 6.1 million euros being offered by the European Union (EU), according to EU Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen.

Jessen made the confirmation on Wednesday, January 24, during the weekly Kapihan sa Manila Bay news forum.

According to him, the Philippine government has rejected the Trade Related Technical Assistance Project Phase Four (TRTA-4) “at the end of the past year.”

“It was formalized in the sense that we had, for example, the TRTA, a document that actually had to be signed by the end of the year.

And that has been returned to us unsigned,” the EU ambassador told reporters.

He said the Philippine government raised objections to areas of “rule of law,” “democracy,” and “human

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PHILIPPINE DELEGATION TO INDIA. President Rodrigo Duterte flashes his signature pose with the members of his delegation while on board Philippine Airlines chartered flight PR001 bound for New Delhi, India on Wednesday, January 24. Joining the president are Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Presidential Chief Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go, Quezon City Fourth District Representative Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and Philippine National Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa.

Malacañang photo by Robinson Ninal Jr.

7 Fil-Am medical missionaries dead in Cebu after car crash A WEEKEND getaway in Cebu quickly turned into a tragedy after seven Filipino-American medical missionaries were killed in a car crash in the nearby town of Alegria last weekend.

On Saturday, January 20, a group of 10 physicians and nurses from the United States were in the town of Oslob, located 73 miles south of Cebu City. The group was on its way to Kawasan Falls in Badian that morning when the driver of their rented Toyota Grandia van reportedly fell asleep at the wheel.

The car then crashed into a roadside

mahogany tree between 11 a.m. and noon, less than 10 miles away from the destination.

According to local officials, five passengers were killed on the spot while the other five passengers were transported to hospitals; two died on the way to the hospital. Three passengers sustained severe injuries while the driver — identified as 24-year-old Gilbert dela Cruz — survived with minor injuries.

Among those killed included Dr. Nunilo Rubio, 74, of Chicago; Aurora M. Gagni, 63, a registered nurse from

Orland Park, Ill.; husband and wife Reynaldo and Diane Pascual of White Plains, NY; Joseph and Juvela Huang and Berniti Rojas, according to Inquirer.

The three passengers treated for injuries were Dr. Rubio’s wife Dr. Elenita Rubio and husband and wife Fred and Nora Tsai of Chicago.

The traveling group were a part of 48 volunteers of an annual medical mission organized by the Philippine Medical Association of Chicago (PMAC) and it’s Women’s Auxiliary

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Retrieval of ballot boxes on Marcos poll protest starts Fil-Am dominates US photo

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

RECOUNT ROLLS. Ballot boxes are retrieved by election officials in Camarines Sur, one of the three pilot provinces identified by former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. for recount in connection with his electoral protest. Marcos believes he won the 2016 vice-presidential election and that Vice President Maria Leonor ‘Leni’ Robredo benefited from massive electronic cheating.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Llanesca T. Panti

THE Supreme Court (SC), sitting as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET), has begun the retrieval of ballot boxes in the province of Camarines Sur on Tuesday, January 23.

Camarines Sur is among the three pilot provinces tagged by former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. in his electoral protest against Philippine Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo.

Ballot boxes and other poll documents were retrieved from 538 precincts in the following municipalities: Cabusao, Sipo-

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contest for Rohingya crisis

by ARIC

SY CUA ManilaTimes.net

A FILIPINO-American freelance photojournalist topped a photo competition in the U.S. recently with her heart-tugging stills on Rohingya refugees.

Cheryl Diaz Meyer dominated the competition, “2018 Eyes of History” under the category “International News” by the White House News Photographers Association (WHNPA).

Meyer’s photo showing refugee Anwara Nurhassan taking a boat from Bangladesh to a refugee camp on October 3, 2017, won first place.

Photos of a Rohingya boy crying to his father and of a refugee carrying his wife to a rickshaw finished second and third respectively.

Two of Meyer’s photos consisting of two men carrying a 60-yearold refugee to the southernmost part of Bangladesh and an 8-yearold boy with burn wounds in his face while at a refugee camp were also cited.

All five photos were posted on Meyer’s website, which has a complete portofolio of photos of the Rohingya crisis.

On her Twitter and Instagram accounts, Meyer expressed her Cheryl Diaz Meyer

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Photo from Chery’s Facebook page

A January 26-february 1, 2018 • neW yOrK anD neW JerSey aSIan JOurnaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

From the Front Page

PAGE A1 t

Duterte tells troops...

beyond his six-year term, which is set to end on June 30, 2022.

Earlier this month, Duterte’s allies in Congress raised the possibility of extending the president’s term as part of the proposed shift to a federal form of government.

But even if extending the president’s term would be allowed in the new Constitution, Malacañang clarified that Duterte is already averse to the idea. Rather than extending his term, Malacañang claimed that Duterte prefers to step down ahead of the expiration of his tenure.

Sison ‘stuck in history’ In the same speech, Duterte also scoffed at Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chair Jose Maria “Joma” Sison, who recently urged the youth to hold a mass protest against the supposed looming dictatorship under the present administration.

“Sison said I should see a doctor and have my head examined.

Hey, Sison, if you were bright, you should have become president already,” Duterte said.

The CPP founder on Sunday, January 21, called for the youth to imitate the riots of the “First Quarter Storm” (FQS) of 1970 against the Duterte administration, referring to the series of heavy demonstrations that led to the late President Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of martial law in 1972.

In an interview with Philippine Daily Inquirer on Sunday, January 21, Sison said the youth “should launch huge mass marches and rallies in the National Capital Region and in the provinces, like during the First Quarter Storm (FQS) of 1970.”

“With the signal act of the student youth, the rest of the people — workers, the peasants, women, youth of other sectors,

PH formally turns down...

PAGE A1 t

rights” cited in the TRTA documentation.

Apart from the TRTA-4, the EU ambassador added that the Philippine government is also about to reject another P2.4 billion to 39 million euros in aid for sustainable energy projects.

The Philippines earlier said it will not accept foreign aid that comes with conditionalities that will affect country’s sovereignty as part of its independent foreign policy.

“For me it’s a bit sad that after 30 years plus of development cooperation, we suddenly get into this situation. And the independence of Philippine foreign policy – I’m still struggling a bit to understand how we are interfering in that,” Jessen said.

He also noted that the conditions attached to EU grants “are not specifically for the Philippines” but for the EU’s

cooperation “with all countries in the world.”

Following the Philippines’ decision to turn down the aid grant, the ambassador said the EU respects the country’s decision.

“We respect the decision. It is important for us that we don’t have misunderstanding. It’s, at the end of the day, for them to decide,” he said.

Asia-EU meeting invite During the forum, Jessen also disclosed that the bloc has sent an invitation for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday, January 23 to visit Europe and attend the upcoming Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).

The ASEM, which is slated in October this year, is a dialogue forum aiming “to foster dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe.”

“He’s not been to Europe, and I think he’s actually never been

7 Fil-Am medical missionaries...

cultural workers, professionals and religious — will participate in the mass-protest movement,” he added.

But Malacañang downplayed Sison’s call, saying the CPP founder was “stuck” in the past.

“Again, we don’t attach too much importance to Joma Sison.

I hope he has enough grandchildren to heed this call,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a briefing.

Roque continued, “The problem with Joma Sison is he is stuck in history. He never moved beyond the First Quarter Storm.”

Sison has been in self-exile in the Netherlands since 1987.

In December last year, Duterte also classified the CPP and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), as “terrorists” following the termination of peace Cheryl Diaz Meyer dominated the competition, “2018 Eyes of History” under the category “International News” by the White House News Photographers negotiations between the gov- Association (WHNPA). ernment and the communist group. n

Fil-Am dominates US photo contest...

to Europe, and when you think about the importance of the EU-Philippine relationship, it is probably starting to be noticeable that we haven’t had a visit from him,” Jessen said.

The EU ambassador expressed the belief that after Duterte visit in Europe, he will come back in the Philippines “with a more positive understanding” of the EU. “So I would very much like him to go there and maybe also to develop his understanding of Europe and what we’re doing in Europe. We are not spending all our time criticizing the Philippines,” he added.

Duterte, who assumed the presidency in 2016, had repeatedly lashed out at the EU for raising human rights concerns over his controversial campaign against illegal drugs, accusing the bloc of interfering in the Philippines’ domestic affairs.

Jessen said Malacañang has yet to issue a response to the invite. n

partaken in past PMAC mission trips.

PAGE A1 t In an interview, Dalisay Vilstricken patients and bring along that was expected to begin on dozens of balikbayan boxes of lalon, a registered nurse and past Monday, January 22 in Camiguin medical supplies and medicine. president of PMAC Auxiliary exMany of those who passed away pressed sorrow for the lives lost Island.

Once a year, the volunteers were respected professionals and honored them for their efforts help treat thousands of poverty- in the medical world and had in helping the less fortunate.

PAGE A1 t gratitude to the WHNPA. “Thank you to the judges of the White House News Photographers Association for this immense honor. I’ve never been awarded an entire category in any competition, and I’m deeply moved,” she wrote.

“I hope this increases awareness for the plight of the Rohingya refugees, who Bangladesh wants to repatriate to Myanmar.”

Based on Meyer’s personal website, she was born in Quezon City on February 25, 1968 and moved to the U.S. at the age of 13. She studied at the University of Minnesota-Duluth and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in German.

She is best known for her coverage of the 2003 Iraq War and documentation regarding women adversity around the globe. She was given the Pulitzer Prize in 2004, along with colleague David Leeson for Breaking News Photography.

In 2006, while working at the Dallas Morning News as a senior “The death of these seven volunteers shocks me to no end,” Villalon said. “I [had] to double check what I read online. Sadly, it shows the volatility of man’s life, but our desire to serve the poor and the sick should continue as it will be this year for the PMAC de-

Meyer’s photo showing refugee Anwara Nurhassan taking a boat from Bangladesh to a refugee camp on October 3, 2017, won first place.

Photos by Cheryl Diaz Meyer

staff photographer, she again won the Pulitzer Prize, with her team, for Breaking News Photography, for their coverage of Hurricane

Katrina. Her photos have been exhibited worldwide, including at the the Newseum’s Pulitzer Prize Exhibit in Washington, DC. n

spite this tragedy. The missionaries will continue healing even as we mourn those who passed on.”

According to Alegria Chief of Police Efren Diaz, dela Cruz admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, but he denied drug usage.

Additionally, he said that he only

had an hour’s sleep before he was to drive the travelers early the next morning.

Dela Cruz is currently in custody awaiting charges against him for reckless driving that resulted in multiple homicide and injury.

(Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

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Dateline USa

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 26-fEbRUARY 1, 2018

A

US Congress passes bill to end gov’t shutdown Vote for DACA fix, CHIP reauthorization pushed back to February 8

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

AFTER receiving backlash for allowing the government to shut down on Friday, January 19, a bipartisan group of United States Congress members presented a bill on Monday, January 22 that would reopen the government and allow thousands of furloughed federal employees to return to work.

Members of Congress were to put together a spending package by midnight on Friday, but due to disagreements with certain bills and a refusal by Senate Democrats to support a stopgap funding measure to extend the deadline, the shutdown went into effect.

Through bargaining with other Congress members behind closed doors (and knowing that the repercussions of a shut down worsen as time goes on), key lawmakers on Capitol Hill voted overwhelmingly on Monday to break the filibuster and reopen the government.

“Should we have ever shut down the government? Absolutely not,” said Senator Joe

Manchin III (D-WV), who was a leader in negotiating a way out from the shutdown.

Senate Democrats relented to joining the Republicans to allow the passage of a short-term spending package that would provide government funding until February 8. Democrats agreed to the terms as long as Republican leaders promised a solution for undocumented youth, known as DREAMers.

In other words, the GOP had to commit to finding a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which was terminated by the Trump administration last September.

The bipartisan group of senators that ended the gridlock included more than 20 lawmakers that met behind closed doors. Among the Democrats included Sens. Tim Kaine of Virginia and newly-elected Doug Jones of Alabama. The Republicans included Trump critics like Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Bob Corker of Tennessee.

“Shutting down the government was inappropriate, but I

p.m. on October 1, 2017 over the country music festival which was commencing its third and last day of weekend festivities. Country singer Jason Aldean, who was headlining the festival, was rushed offstage mid-song while many witnesses looked up expecting fireworks.

Police later identified the shooter as 64-year-old Paddock, who fired a storm of bullets from the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, about a quarter-mile away from the Las Vegas Village venue.

One warrant in the over 300 pages of released warrants and affidavits described how Paddock “destroyed or tried to hide digital media devices.”

According to investigators, Paddock used anonymous communication devices such as a prepaid cell phone, and used a “level of sophistication which is commonly found in mass casualty events.”

“Paddock planned the attack meticulously and took many methodical steps to avoid detection of his plot and to thwart the eventual law enforcement that would follow,” said the FBI. Three of the shooter’s cellphones were found in the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino room, according to search warrants approved by judges after the shooting. Two of the phones were searched by investigators, but the third was unable to be unlocked.

Email exchanges between two similarly named email addresses were also revealed in the documents as having been sent on July 6, 2017 — about two months before the shooting.

The affidavit regarding the email reads: “...[centralpark1@ live.com] sent an email to centralpark4804@gmail.com which read, ‘try an ar before u buy. we have huge selection. located in the las vegas area,’ Later the day, an email was received back from centralpark4804@ gmail.com to [centralpark1@ live.com] that read, ‘we have a wide variety of optics and ammunition to try.’ And lastly, [centralpark1@live.com sent an email to centralpark4804@ gmail.com that read, ‘for a thrill try out bumpfire ar’s with a 100 round magazine.’ Investigators believe these communications may have been related to the eventual attack that occurred at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.”

The affidavit added that the “investigators have been unable to figure out why Stephen Paddock would be exchanging messages related to weapons that were used in the attack between two of his email accounts.”

It is possible that one of the email accounts was being controlled by someone else, said the affidavit, adding that the FBI would need to identify the person. A search warrant would “lead investigators to determine the full scope of Stephen Paddock’s plan.”

New details on Filipina girlfriend Marilou Danley — Paddock’s

Filipina accused of passport fraud...

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Bail for Miclat has been set at $20,000.

The U.S. passport is the most valuable identity document in the world, according to the U.S. Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS), which has been investigating passport and visa fraud since 1916. A U.S. passport establishes American citizenship and allows holders access to over 160 coun-

tries in the world visa-free or with visa on arrival.

According to DS, passport and visa crimes are federal crimes and those found guilty are punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The prison sentence is increased to 15 years if the offense is connected to drug trafficking, and 20 years if connected to terrorism. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)

VOTE FOR BBL. Senators Risa Hontiveros, Juan Edgardo Angara, Joseph Victor Ejercito and Juan Miguel Zubiri, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al haj Murad Ebrahim, Bangsamoro Transition Committee (BTC) Chairman and MILF 1st Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar and Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman pose for peace as symbol of solidarity gesture to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). The senators visited the MILF Camp in Cotabato City on Thursday, January 25.

PNA photo by Avito Dalan

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Retrieval of ballot boxes on Marcos poll...

cot, Lupi, Ragay, Del Gallego, Libmanan, Pamplona, Pasacao, San Fernando, Milaor, Gainza and Minalabac.

“The [SC] has also deployed 62-year-old Filipina girlfriend who holds an Australian pass- security detail. So far, we don’t port — had told investigators see any problem,” said Bernashe had no knowledge of his dette Sardillo, counsel for Roplan when meeting with FBI bredo.

“Each ballot box will be inback in October of last year.

Danley had been in the Philip- spected because the retrieval pines during the shooting, where team here has to make sure that Paddock sent $100,000. Defense attorney Matthew Lombard said then that she was not expecting the money.

New court documents reveal that Danley made changes to her Facebook’s personal and privacy settings at around 12:30 a.m. — approximately two-anda-half hours after Paddock’s first fire at 10:08 p.m.

By 2:46 a.m., Danley’s Facebook account had been deleted, according to the documents. Paddock’s name had not been officially released to the public until around 3:30 a.m.

Danley had also told investigators that her fingerprints may be found on Paddock’s ammunition, which investigators did find. She said that she sometimes helped Paddock load magazines, but why she was handling the weapons was not clear from the documents.

An affidavit identifies Danley as “the most likely person who aided or abetted Stephen Paddock based on her informing law enforcement that her fingerprints would likely be found on the ammunition used during the attack.”

An agent wrote in a filing that Danley — who remained “adamant” that she was unaware of Paddock’s plans — has “corroborated much what had been previously deduced by investigators.”

No “conclusive evidence” of Danley being involved in the massacre has been suggested, but she does remain the “subject of intensive review.”

Agents also said that Danley’s email could “lead investigators to determine the full scope of Stephen Paddock’s plan and Marilou Danley’s possible involvement.”

Information on Instagram accounts believed to be connected to Danley were also requested.

In October, Danley also told investigators that she was concerned over Paddock’s mental stability.

Investigations revealed that Paddock may have been treated for “unidentified medical conditions.”

Clark County Sheriff Joseph Lombardo cited a preliminary report that included details on Paddock’s “disturbing” search history which included ballistic and SWAT tactics. Child pornography photographs were also recovered, according to the report.

In the report, Danley described Paddock acting different when they stayed at the resort early September. She said Paddock had become “distant” and “germaphobic.”

Furthermore, Paddock’s primary doctor said he might have been bipolar but that Paddock refused to take antidepressants or talk about it. (Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)

Las Vegas shooter methodically...

PAGE A1 t

am encouraged by the bipartisan discussions that have occurred over the past few days.

I will continue working with my colleagues on a solution to the number of challenges still before us,” Corker tweeted on Monday.

For some, the sound of bipartisanship to coalesce a solution to a problem in an age where partisan politics can muddy legislative progress was a sign of good things to come.

Although the Senate’s vote was a short-term solution to the shutdown, some don’t agree with the Democrats’ decision to extend the funding, arguing that putting off the DACA fix prolongs the uncertainty felt by many undocumented youth, 800,000 of whom received benefits from DACA. Legal and civil rights organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles

all the election paraphernalia that will be sent to Manila will be complete,” she added.

Based on the order from the SC, the ballot retrieval process in Camarines Sur will continue until Friday, January 26.

The ballot boxes will then be delivered at the SC-Court of Appeals Gymnasium in Manila for the recount set in February.

Concerning the transport of the ballot boxes to Manila, Sar-

dillo said the SC has given assurance that the documents will be secured.

“There will be 31 Special Action Forces who will be deployed, and another 31 from the security detail of the Supreme Court. The transport will be by land, because boarding it in a plane would be expensive,” she said.

Marcos has accused Robredo of benefiting from “massive

electoral fraud, anomalies and irregularities” during the vice presidential election in 2016.

Apart from Camarines Sur, Marcos also listed Iloilo and Negros Oriental as the best provinces where he could prove the irregularities alleged in his protest.

The PET has yet to release the retrieval schedules for the remaining two pilot provinces.

Robredo won the vice presidential race by just 263,473 votes more than Marcos. n

A January 26-february 1, 2018 • neW yOrK anD neW JerSey aSIan JOurnaL

Roach: Beating super featherweight champ Lomachenko not impossible for Pacquiao

by Dino

Maragay Philstar.com

A 39-year-old Manny Pacquiao defeating a prime Vasyl Lomachenko is not out of the question, as far as trainer Freddie Roach is concerned.

But it will take 100 percent of Pacquiao’s attention for the Filipino icon to pull it off.

Speaking recently to Steve Kim of BoxingScene.com, the multiawarded trainer said he believes Pacquiao can overcome a tough fight with the 29-year-old Lomachenko, provided he gives up his other job as senator.

“But the thing is we need a real good training camp and we need him to get out of being a senator for a little while,” Roach told Kim. “I said, ‘Manny, this is too tough a sport to have another job’,” he added.

Pacquiao has set his sights on Lomachenko, the reigning WBO super featherweight champion and currently considered as among the top pound-for-pound

fighters in the world.

That fight though isn’t expected to happen anytime soon for various reasons, including the fact that Lomachenko’s camp isn’t keen on the boxer moving up two divisions for a welterweight showdown with Pacquiao.

Nevertheless, many observers think that at this point, the Ukrainian star may be too much for Pacquiao, who is already in the twilight of his career.

Pacquiao hasn’t fought since losing last year to Australian Jeff Horn, whom many thought the Filipino star should have easily dealt with. Age, however, has clearly caught up with Pacquiao as he struggled with Horn’s size and rough style.

The more skilled Lomachenko is clearly a different animal, and Roach said Pacquiao has to work extra hard for a chance to neutralize the young champion’s speed and footwork.

“You’ve got to concentrate and be really, really prepared for this fight and you have to be

Vasyl Lomachenko

VillanueVa Philstar.com

MILITANT group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) yesterday urged the Duterte government to disclose the terms of “Operation Pacific Eagle: Philippines,” a new counterterror operation of the United States in the country, which reportedly aims to maintain active U.S. military presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

The group said the operation was launched by the U.S. government in September 2017, yet the government has kept silent about it.

Bayan said the U.S. special operations command listed the Philippines among its priorities for military intervention along with Afghanistan, Africa, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Somalia and Yemen.

In a testimony before the U.S. Senate armed services committee on July 17, U.S. joint chief of staff vice chairman Gen. Paul Selva said the U.S. should consider restarting a named military op-

eration in the Philippines similar to Operation Enduring Freedom in order to counter the Islamic State.

The Wall Street Journal reported the U.S. has embarked on an overseas contingency operation in the Philippines as early as September last year or two months after defense officials sought a named-operation in the country.

Bayan secretary-general Renato Reyes said the report that the U.S. is again engaged in a named-operation similar to Operation Enduring FreedomPhilippines in 2002, raises a lot of questions on the involvement of the U.S. in direct combat role in the Philippines.

Reyes said this was a flagrant violation of the Philippine Constitution.

He said the last time the U.S. launched its operations, it also resulted in the permanent presence of 600 U.S. troops in Mindanao for more than 15 years.

“U.S. uninterrupted presence of US forces in Mindanao — engaged in various unspecified activities including direct combat

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

Philstaer.com photo

aggressive in this fight because [Lomachenko] does have great footwork but if you press him hard enough and so forth,” Roach continued.

“You take that game away from him and he’s beatable.” n

PH gov’t urged: Disclose terms of US counterterror operation by rhoDina

Dateline USa

participation — is a gross violation of our national sovereignty,” Reyes said.

Bayan said the government should break its silence about Operation Pacific Eagle.

“Was the U.S. also the one that recommended the extension of martial law to allow unhampered U.S. intervention and basing?

What are the terms of reference for armed U.S. troops conducting operations in Mindanao?

The Philippine government has declared victory in Marawi, so why allow continued U.S. military intervention?” he asked.

The group said the Senate foreign relations committee should look into this new U.S. operation as it did previously during the term of the late senator Miriam Defensor Santiago.

“The Senate should look into how the U.S. is circumventing the treaty requirements on foreign basing through its so-called overseas contingency operations that deploy unlimited number of troops for unspecified activities for an undetermined period of time,” Reyes said. n

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.

INVESTIGATING PCSO. Senator Panfilo Lacson, chair of the Senate Committee on Games and Amusement, fields question to officials from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) during the Senate hearing on proposed reforms to the PCSO charter on Wednesday, January 24. The inquiry focused on the reforms to be introduced under Senate Bill No. 1470, which would “make the PCSO more accountable to the public, and limit its discretion in the distribution of its funds.” Also in photo are (from left to right) Senator Manny Pacquiao, Senator Gregorio Honasan II and Camarines Sur 2nd District Representative Luis Raymund Villafuerte.

Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo

Family thinks American filmmaker an EJK victim in Cebu by anthony

Q. esguerra

Inquirer.net

THE family of an American documentary filmmaker is demanding answers from Philippine authorities over the “suspicious” death of their member while in custody of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Cebu City.

Boston native Jesse Phinney, 42, who was accused of pedophilia and human trafficking with local children in Cebu, was arrested by the NBI on December 4, 2017.

Less than 24 hours later, Phinney was found dead at the toilet of an NBI-7 detention facility.

The NBI claims that he committed suicide by hanging himself using a belt, according to media reports.

But Phinney’s family members believe that what happened to him was “a false arrest, failed extortion, a murder and a government cover-up.”

“Jesse was a big-hearted, gentle and generous man who found his purpose in helping people in Third World countries build sustainable homes using wind and solar,” his family said in a statement sent to Inquirer. “The circumstances surrounding his death while in police custody must be investigated thoroughly and completely.”

Dominika Posseren, Jesse’s widow, suggested that what happened to her husband was a case of extrajudicial killing.

“I hundred percent believe that the Philippine police murdered an American humanitarian,” Posseren told WCVB-5 in an interview.

She added: “I will spend the

Jesse Phinney

rest my life making sure that the last thing that is known about him is not that he was some sort of a child trafficker [who] committed suicide because I will say this until my last breath: that is not true.”

In the same interview, Molly Phinney Baskette, Jesse’s sister, noted that the Philippine government offered P50,000 for any Philippine police who could kill a criminal.

Phinney’s career as a documentarian for National Geographic and History Channel took him to remote places around the world. He worked on hit adventure shows such as “Naked and Afraid,” “Life Below Zero” and on NBC’s “The Apprentice.”

His family is asking the Philippine government to provide answers to their questions and to grant them full access to documents and evidence.

“We have no idea what actu-

US Congress passes bill...

PAGE A3 t denounced the vote as extends the state of uncertainty so many DREAMers have been in since DACA’s termination.

“A number of Republicans have continuously promised to provide a resolution for DACA recipients within the negotiations about a government spending bill,” Advancing Justice-LA wrote in a statement.

“Today, a resolution for DACA recipients slipped through our fingers when Senators got cold feet.”

Advancing Justice-LA also criticized Congress’ inability to pass the DREAM Act — which would provide DREAMers a pathway to citizenship — despite overwhelming support for it.

“The plan to bring an immigration bill to a vote as standalone legislation in the Senate is not guaranteed, and it does not include a path forward for the House,” Advancing JusticeLA added. “The majority of Americans support a solution for DACA recipients and we have the votes in both houses to get the DREAM Act passed into law, [but] the president and Speaker [Paul] Ryan continue to obstruct a solution.”

Also, a promise guaranteed in the stopgap measure was a long-term solution for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a bipartisancreated public health insurance program for children of low-earning families that was not reauthorized by Congress

in 2017.

The bill passed on Monday guarantees six years of federal funding for CHIP, which was ended on Sept. 30, 2017 when lawmakers failed to reauthorize it for the first time in two decades, which outraged public health professionals.

Approximately 1.3 million children in California are enrolled in public health programs through CHIP, the highest enrollment rate of any state that runs out of funding this year, as previously reported by the Asian Journal. Additionally, about 3 out of 4 of those children are children of color.

The program provided a whole host of medical services for underprivileged children: routine check-ups, immunizations, emergency services, prescriptions and inpatient and outpatient hospital care to name a few.

In addition to providing coverage for children, CHIP also provides for more than 370,000 pregnant women a year.

This measure relieves some stress for states (who share responsibility for funding CHIP), many of which have been depleting their remaining funds for their state’s CHIPs. Federal funding — which is an estimated $124 billion — will continue through 2023.

For the first two years, federal funding will pay for at least 88 percent of the program’s expenses in all states; after that, the federal government’s share will decrease over two years.

Photo courtesy of Jesse Phinney’s family

ally happened in the jail and are convinced that our beloved Jesse may have been the victim of extortion, just like hundreds of other cases in the country,” Baskette said in a statement.

Inquirer reached out to NBI for comment but received no response as of publishing time.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Manila confirmed to Inquirer the death of Phinney in Cebu and offered their sincere condolences to the family.

When asked if the Embassy was coordinating the incident with Philippine authorities, Press Attache Molly Koscina declined to further comment “out of respect for the family during this difficult time.”

Phinney’s family claimed they did not receive any help from the American government. They called for more pressure to the Department of State to act on Jesse’s case. n What happens when the government shuts down?

Hearing of the government shutting down rightfully terrified people across the nation.

The shutdown is over, but the frenzy still begs the question: what does it mean when the government shuts down?

The government shuts down when Congress and the White House fail to pass a spending package that funds government operations and agencies across the country.

When the government shuts down, only “essential” federal employees are to report for work while “non-essential” employees will be placed on furlough. For example, if the government shutdown had persisted, more than half of workers from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) were to be placed on furlough.

Most workers from other federal offices — like the Dept. of Education, National Transportation Safety Board and Consumer Product Safety Commission — were furloughed. Over the weekend, tourists hoping to visit the Statue of Liberty in New York weren’t able to visit because the national landmark was one of the federally-funded sites closed by the shutdown.

The furlough continues until Congress can agree on a bill that would extend government funding.

The last time the government shut down was in Oct. 2013 when for 16 days, the government shutdown largely impacted government employees, agencies and federally-funded buildings and landmarks. n

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 26-fEbRUARY 1, 2018

Dateline PhiliPPines

A

Duterte vows to ‘uncover truth’ Pimentel: House, Senate agree to behind Mamasapano tragedy ‘set aside differences’ on Cha-cha

by Dana

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

SioSon

AJPress

PhiliPPine President Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to “uncover the truth” behind the botched operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao that claimed lives of 44 police commandos three years ago.

While admitting that justice remains “elusive” for the fallen Philippine national Police – Special Action Force (PnP-SAF), Malacañang assured that the president will find a “just closure” for their bereaved families.

“The nation remembers the heroic sacrifice of the 44 uniformed personnel of the [PnPSAF]. Three years after the tragedy of Mamasapano, the cry for justice for our fallen SAF 44 heroes remains elusive,” Presidential Spokesperson harry Roque said in a press statement. he continued, “Duterte does not wish a repeat of such a waste of lives and promising future of gallant Filipinos even as he vows to uncover the truth behind this botched operation and find a just closure for the bereaved families who lost a husband, father, brother, or son.”

The Palace official called on members of the police to look back at the sacrifice of their fallen colleagues and honor their memory by “reliving their values of integrity and courage as you perform your duty to serve and protect the nation.”

Malacañang likewise asked the Filipino people to offer prayers for the fallen heroes.

“We also pray for their be-

REMEMBERING SAF 44. Philippine flags are displayed at the People Power Monument in Quezon City in preparation for the third death anniversary of the 44 Special Action Force (SAF 44) police commandos who were killed while carrying out an operation to capture a terrorist in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25, 2015.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

reaved families that their grief may soon be appeased through the attainment of justice,” Roque added. last year, Duterte declared January 25 as the Day of national Remembrance for the 44 police commandos who were killed during the botched operation in January 2015.

During the raid, dubbed as “Oplan exodus,” SAF troopers were able to neutralize Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin hir, alias Marwan, but were ambushed by Moro rebels.

Former President Benigno “noynoy” Aquino iii, former Philippine national Police (PnP) chief Alan Purisima, and former PnP-SAF director Getulio napeñas were facing graft and usurpation charges in connection with the failed operation.

‘incompetent’ Also on Thursday, napeñas blasted Aquino for supposedly tarnishing the reputation of the SAF. napeñas, who led Oplan exodus, said the former president made him and his commanders look “incompetent.”

“Pinalabas nila, ‘yung buong (Aquino) administration na ako ay incompetent, ‘yung mga kasama ko incompetent (The Aquino administration made me and my fellow officials look incompetent),” napeñas told reporters.

Reacting to napeñas’ statement, Aquino insisted that the former PnP-SAF chief handled the operation poorly. “no, no, that’s incorrect. he made himself look incompetent, because he actually performed incompetent,” Aquino said. n

Palace defends decision to grant China research access in PH Rise

abundantly clear that a review of our Charter is long overdue, The house of Representatives as repeatedly stressed by the and the Senate have broken the resource persons at the Senate impasse after agreeing to “mo- hearing tackling constitutional mentarily set aside” their dif- amendments.”

“But we need to determine ferences on the Charter change issue.

According to Senate Presidential leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel iii, Congressional leaders have decided to focus first on finalizing “specific constitutional amendments or revisions that will be proposed and presented to the people.”

“We have decided to focus on the revisions that have to be made rather than how these changes will be effected,” Pimentel said in a statement on Thursday, January 25.

Pimentel revealed that the agreement was reached after meeting with Senate Majority leader Vicente Sotto iii, house Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and house Majority leader Rodolfo Fariñas on Wednesday night, January 24.

The house and the Senate had ensued in a deadlock over differences on the manner of voting on Charter amendments or revisions in connection with the proposed shift to a federal form of government.

The house wants the two chambers to vote joints, while the outnumbered Senate insists on voting separately.

But Pimentel stressed that the differing legal views on how to amend the Constitution “should not distract us from the crux of this exercise: to make revisions to the charter that will help improve our people’s lives.” he expressed belief that “it is

first what exact amendments or revisions will benefit the people.

After this we can tackle how we will go about enacting these amendments in a manner that maximizes citizen involvement

u PAGE A7

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

MAlACAñAnG on Tuesday, January 23, has defended its earlier decision allowing China to carry out research in the Philippine Rise, formerly referred to as Benham Rise, which is located off eastern luzon. in a press briefing, Palace Spokesperson harry Roque pointed out that “you do not need a permit for any Filipino corporation to conduct scientific investigation in Benham Rise because it is ours so that’s not something that a consent has to be given by the government.”

But according to Roque, Filipinos have no financial capability to pursue such costly research in the Philippine Rise. “[n]o one has applied. And no one can do it because, apparently, it’s capital intensive,” the Palace official said.

Malacañang also said that China was qualified and passed the guidelines set by the Philippines.

Among these guidelines, according to the Philippine government, is that Filipino researchers must be allowed to join Chinese researchers during explorations. All findings must also be shared with the Philippines.

Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has earlier expressed alarm over China’s involvement in the Philippine Rise research, noting that the Manila and Beijing have territorial disputes in some parts of the South China Sea. in a statement on Monday, January 22, Pangilinan re-

Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III Inquirer.net photo

In this Feb. 27, 2015 photo provided by fisherman Renato Etac, Chinese Coast Guard members approach Etac’s fellow fishermen near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. More than once, the Chinese approached Etac’s boat and pointed their rifles at him, but he says he knew they would not fire and start a war.

Philstar.com photo

marked that “history and experience tell us that China is not exactly the most trustworthy partner for such an activity.”

“What will the country stand to gain from this marine scientific research? Why do we need to partner with China? Can’t the Philippines do it on its own?

What is in store for China after the research? how long will this be carried out, and what will be the coverage of the research?

What are the mechanisms and guidelines in place in the conduct of the activity?” Pangilinan said.

The senator further asked, “Most importantly, what would be the impact of such joint undertaking on the Philippines’ national interest and security?” in a separate statement, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano revealed that the Philippines also approved research requests from the United States, Japan and South Korea.

Cayetano told the Philippine

Star that Malacañang has already approved 13 research applications from the United States, nine from Japan, and four from South Korea. in a bid to debunk critics’ claims of the Philippine government’s supposed bias in favor of China, Cayetano also noted that only two out of 18 applications from China were approved.

The Foreign Affairs secretary further allayed fears that China would exploit Philippine resources amid access to the country’s waters.

“They all must comply with Philippine laws or we would bar them at Benham Rise,” Cayetano said. in May last year, President Rodrigo Duterte officially renamed “Benham Rise” to “Philippine Rise” in a bid to uphold the country’s sovereign rights. located along the Pacific Ocean 250 kilometers (155 miles) east of isabela, the Philippine Rise is believed to be rich in mineral and gas deposits. n

Duterte names members of body to review Constitution 18 men, one woman in consultative committee

by Gaea

Katreena Philstar.com

CabiCo

MAnilA— President Rodrigo Duterte appointed 19 members to the consultative committee who will review the 1987 Constitution.

The committee is chaired by former chief justice Reynato Puno, a federalism advocate.

Duterte has also appointed former Senate president Aquilino Pimentel Jr, the father of the local government code.

Other members include: • Randolph Climaco Parcasio, lawyer who represented nur Misuari’s MnlF faction • Antonio Binas Arellano, regional prosecutor • Susan Ubalde-Ordinario, lawyer and federalism advocate • Arthur Aguilar, businessman • Reuben Rabe Canoy, lawyer

Former chief magistrate Reynato Puno, retired Supreme Court associate justice Bienvenido Reyes, San Beda College of Law Dean Ranhilio Aquino and former senator Aquilino Pimentel Jr. are among the members of a newly formed Consultative Committee to Review the 1987 Constitution, a concrete move in President Rodrigo Duterte’s plan to convert the system of government into federalism.

Philstar.com photos

and radio station owner • Roan libarios, former integrated Bar of the Philippines

president • laurence Wacnang, former

u PAGE A7

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A6 JANUARY 26-FEBRUARY 1, 2018 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

FEATURES

OPINION

Economic Cha-cha

BUSINESS groups have expressed their views on Charter change, and it would be prudent for lawmakers to consider those opinions. Cha-cha is supposed to be about uplifting the lives of the people — not just of the power elite, whose personal and family fortunes depend on maintaining their grip on political power, but of the millions of ordinary Filipinos who need meaningful jobs and livelihood opportunities.

The investors are the ones who can provide those jobs and other opportunities for legitimate income generation. In the past decades, however, the Philippines has progressively slipped in national competitiveness, with investors including some Filipinos taking their businesses to neighboring countries.

Despite sustained economic growth — one of Asia’s fastest — the country trails its neighbors in attracting job-generating investments. Even with economic powerhouse China becoming less attractive for foreign investors, the businesses aren’t going to the Philippines but to countries such as Vietnam.

Some of the disincentives to investments in the Philippines can be corrected by amending restrictive economic provisions in the Constitution.

There are only a few such provisions, and amending them can be done relatively quickly if Congress convenes a constituent assembly, with the two leg-

islative chambers voting separately and independently.

In a joint statement over the weekend, three of the nation’s top business groups – the Makati Business Club, Management Association of the Philippines and Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines – issued a statement of support for economic Cha-cha through a constituent assembly.

For a change in the form of government and other radical reforms, however, the business groups said longer deliberations are needed, through a constitutional convention. While this mode is longer, involves elected delegates and is more costly, it would be a “justifiable” investment in something that could result in “significant social returns in the long run,” the joint statement declared.

Their sentiments are shared by many, who are ministration lawmakers. The case for economic worried by the undue haste by which Charter Cha-cha is clear, but still murky for federalism. change for federalism is being pushed by pro-ad- Proponents of a federal system should consider

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

the points raised by the business groups and assess where they want to take the latest effort to change the Constitution. (Philstar.com)

US Indo-Pacific strategy

Babe’s Eye View BABES ROMUALDEZ EVERY year, the executive branch of the U.S. government is supposed to submit a National Security Strategy (NSS) report to the U.S. Congress, outlining the administration’s goals, objectives, worldwide interests and policies that impact the security of their nation. Many administrations however have not been submitting these reports on time, or worse, have not made any at all. President Barack Obama for instance submitted the NSS only twice during his eight-year tenure – specifically in 2010 and 2015.

Last December, the administration of President Donald Trump released its NSS report and as expected, it generated — continues to generate, actually — varied opinions and disparate comments on several issues.

One of the most widely discussed however is the prominence given to the Indo-Pacific region, described in the document as

stretching from the west coast of India to the Western shores of the United States representing “the most populous and economically dynamic part of the world,” and where “a geopolitical competition between free and repressive visions of world order is taking place,” the NSS report goes.

It was actually Hillary Clinton — during her stint as State Secretary — who highlighted the term “Indo-Pacific” and its importance to global trade and commerce during a speech in Hawaii in 2010. Over the years, the term “Indo-Pacific has become increasingly used in diplomatic and security circles to indicate a wider area encompassing Australia, Japan and India as a counterpoint to “Asia-Pacific” where China is perceived to be predominant.

“Although the United States seeks to continue to cooperate with China, China is using economic inducements and penalties, influence operations, and implied military threats to persuade other states to heed its political and security agenda…

Its efforts to build and militarize

outposts in the South China Sea endanger the free flow of trade, threaten the sovereignty of other nations, and undermine regional stability,” the report said, which also accused China of seeking to “displace the U.S. in the IndoPacific region, expand the reach of its state-driven economic model and reorder the region in its favor.”

Not surprisingly, China reacted strongly, saying in a statement that, “It is completely egotistical for any nation to put its interests above the common interests of other nations and the international community. It will lead to a path of self-isolation,” adding that the U.S. is being contradictory as it says on one hand that it wants to develop a partnership with China but on the other, “takes an oppositional stance.”

The fact is, U.S. allies like Australia and Japan are increasingly using the term “Indo-Pacific” in their policy papers and in discussing security strategies. As early as 2007, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe — who is advocating a “free and open Indo-Pacific” — has been urging

India to work with Japan in promoting freedom and prosperity in the “broader Asia” where linkages between the U.S., Australia and other Pacific nations would result in a vast network that would allow the free-flow of goods and people.

PM Abe’s strategy calls for a “democratic security diamond” involving Japan, Australia, the US and India. Senior diplomats of these nations met in Manila last November and agreed to uphold a rules-based, free and open international order in the Indo-Pacific region.

I met with Matt Pottinger, the U.S. National Security Council’s senior director for East Asia and adviser to National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster at the White House, where we briefly discussed the Indo-Pacific strategy. Malaysian Ambassador Tan Sri Zulhasnan Rafique also hosted another meeting with NSA Director Pottinger and the other ASEAN ambassadors, where the underpinnings of the U.S. strategy in Asia was discussed, along with the common challenges that nations face such as rogue regimes and

terrorism, and how nations can strengthen alliances to defeat these threats.

In any case, there is no doubt that India is pleased with President Trump’s national security strategy that “welcome(s) India’s emergence as a leading global power and stronger strategic partner.”

Interestingly, the first foreign trip of President Rodrigo Duterte this year will be to India for the India-ASEAN summit, underscoring the great importance that the Philippine government places on its relationship with India. In November last year, the two nations inked four agreements to boost bilateral relations most especially on defense. Last December, members of the Indian and Philippine coast guards also conducted bilateral maritime exercises in Manila Bay. Not many are aware that India reached out to the Philippines following the siege of Marawi City, offering $500,000 financial assistance to help fight the ISISaffiliated terrorist groups that attacked the city. What is doubly significant is that it was the first time India extended aid to

another nation to fight terrorists – also underscoring the growing role of the Indian government in Southeast Asia.

In my view, President Duterte’s upcoming visit to India clearly demonstrates the wisdom of the president’s pragmatic foreign policy approach, proving that our self-interest is paramount in establishing warm relations with rival countries like India and China.

In his message preceding the contents of the 55-page NSS report, President Trump said he envisions “a world of strong, sovereign and independent nations, each with its own cultures and dreams, striving side-byside in prosperity, freedom, and peace — throughout the upcoming year.”

It is clear that if leaders uphold cooperation, respect the dignity and sovereignty of each and every nation and develop an effective mechanism to settle disputes through dialogue — this vision of peaceful coexistence might just be realized soon, not only throughout this year, but for many years to come. (Philstar.com)

Philippine foreign affairs: Who’s in charge here?

FIRST, let’s get something straight. Last time we checked, Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano was in charge of foreign affairs, while Secretary Delfin Lorenzana handled national defense.

So, some seasoned government watchers must have been puzzled when Secretary Lorenzana last month wanted to file a diplomatic protest over reported Chinese militarization in the Spratlys.

The defense chief was doing his job monitoring Chinese construction of facilities on reclaimed land at Fiery Cross Reef, which might have military uses. But the diplomatic action over the island activities—that was up to the Department of Foreign Affairs, not the Department of National Defense.

There’s more. Just last weekend, Secretary Lorenzana reportedly sided with the United States when China decried the sailing of a U.S. guided-missile destroyer near Scarborough Shoal. Now, that seemed like a DFA, not a DND matter.

Asked if the Philippines was concerned about the USS Hopper sailing near the shoal, Secretary Lorenzana said: “No, for as long as they are on innocent passage. International law allows innocent passage even in territorial waters.”

Not-so-innocent passage The U.S. Navy has been conducting what it calls freedom of navigation operations, or “fonops,” sailing into waters claimed by China, like the area within 12 nautical miles, or 22.22 kilometers, from Scarborough Shoal. The fonops show that Washington does not recognize Beijing’s territorial claims.

So, the USS Hopper was not entirely innocent in sailing near the shoal, since it was out to challenge China’s assertion of sovereignty. But it was not defending or advancing Philippine sovereignty, since Washington does not intervene in

statements seeming to show our territorial disputes. the Philippines disputing China Hence, it was a China-U.S. mat- Commentary and supporting America. ter, plain and simple, and how the That was certainly his perPhilippines responded to it was spective a year ago, when a matter of foreign, not defense he announced a U.S. plan to policy. Now, under President build facilities on Philippine Rodrigo Duterte’s independent bases under the Enhanced Deforeign policy of maintaining RICARDO SALUDO fense Cooperation Agreement neutrality and cultivating good (EDCA). Soon after, he sparked relations with all major powers, the first controversy over Chinese research at taking sides is best avoided.

As news headlines declared, however, Secre- Benham Rise, now Philippine Rise.

President Rodrigo Duterte had to intervene. tary Lorenzana “defended” the U.S. warship’s sailing “even in territorial waters.” Now, whose He erupted over possible U.S. nuclear weapons waters he is referring to? Since China was the brought into Philippine bases. The U.S. Embassy one objecting to the U.S. warship, most people denied it, but that stalled U.S. construction of would think Secretary Lorenzana referred to Chi- base facilities. And the President disclosed that he gave permission for Chinese research in Bennese territorial waters around the shoal.

In fact, the Philippine position is that Scar- ham Rise.

Now, Secretary Lorenzana is again criticizborough Shoal is our territory, and China has no right to protest sailings of any vessels around the ing China, even with burgeoning ties under shoal. Moreover, the United Nations Convention President Duterte. Would this lead to renewed on the Law of the Sea, or Unclos, does not ac- warnings about China and calls to implement the cord territorial waters to shoals and other marine EDCA? After all, Washington needs air and naval bases in the country more than ever, for possible outcrops.

Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque and conflicts over Korea and Taiwan.

Other prominent figures have lately called for maritime law expert Jay Batongbacal, both international law professors at the University of the a tougher stance against Beijing. Senior AssoPhilippines, asserted that the shoal was Philip- ciate Justice Antonio Carpio, who spearheaded the winning case in The Hague against China’s pine territory.

Batongbacal defended the USS Hopper’s free- “nine-dash line” claim over most of the South dom of navigation, while Secretary Roque de- China Sea, recently said the government should clined to take sides: “We do not wish to be part not allow new Chinese research in Philippine Rise since Beijing won’t accept the July 2016 of a U.S.-China intramural.” ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration A US push to revive EDCA? Despite the Palace position texted to media, (PCA).

Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano said that however, one leading newspaper headlined: “PH defends ‘innocent passage’ of U.S. warship near the DFA recently allowed a research ship of the Panatag.” And there may yet be more Lorenzana Chinese Academy of Sciences, but rejected a

French foundation seeking permission, supposedly in the same area.

It turned out that the French research was to be in “a sensitive area” in Palawan, as Secretary Cayetano put it. Its vessel was also too small to accommodate a Filipino scientist, as required by the DFA and agreed by China. UP researchers will be on board the Chinese ship.

As for the PCA ruling, Secretary Roque, a professor in international law, said that the decision is binding and valid even if Beijing rejects it.

But more important, President Duterte’s reversal of his predecessor’s rabidly anti-China, pro-U.S.policy has eased tensions, and led the Chinese to halt reclamation in the Spratlys, and allow Filipino fishermen back to Scarborough Shoal—actions that even Western analysts see as compliance with The Hague decision.

Now, with North Korea’s missile threats, most Filipinos would be scared to host American forces likely to be targeted by Pyongyang.

But the U.S. and its supporters won’t stop trying to get the EDCA going. And the Seventh Fleet’s freedom of navigation operations could do just that.

Fonops stir up Beijing and escalate tensions.

And China’s People’s Daily newspaper, the country’s largest, has warned of massive military build-up if “wanton” provocations intensify.

So, if Washington sends more USS Hoppers to raise the temperature, Beijing may just take the bait and deploy more ships, planes and missiles, or even impose restrictions like the air defense identification zone it declared over the East China Sea near Japan in 2013.

All the more reason to keep cool heads in Asian capitals, and get the Code of Conduct between our region and Beijing done fast. (ManilaTimes. net)

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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Dateline PhiliPPines

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • JANUARY 26-fEbRUARY 1, 2018

Duterte denies hand in pork barrel claims against ‘friend’ Drilon

A

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte has denied that he had anything to do with the allegations tagging Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon in the multibillion-peso Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), also known as the pork barrel scam.

Speaking before his departure to India on Wednesday, January 24, Duterte said he would not plot against Drilon as he considers the veteran lawmaker his “friend.”

“Senator Drilon, if I talked to somebody urging a case against you sa PDAF, bring that person in my presence and I will resign because you are my friend,” the president said.

Duterte further stressed that it is not his “style” to run after politicians.

“It is not in my system. It is not in my style na maghabol ng (It’s not my style to run after)… Magdala ka ng tao dito kung sinong inutusan ko ‘yang sa (Bring me whoever I ordered over that) PDAF,” he added.

Duterte made the remark after businesswoman Janet LimNapoles, who is also accused as the “mastermind” of the PDAF scam, revealed in a television interview that she provided funds for Drilon’s campaign.

During her interview with Erwin Tulfo over state-run Radyo Pilipinas on Monday, January 22, Napoles claimed that she gave at least P5 million to the senator’s campaign kitty in 2010. Tulfo is a supporter of Duterte.

But Drilon has denied receiving funds from Napoles, branding her claim as “harassment.”

“We deny having received any campaign contribution from Napoles,” Drilon said. “We will

SENATE TRIBUTE TO MAWARI HEROES. The Senate, led by Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, pays tribute to the members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippines (PNP) for their bravery in fighting against the Maute-Abu Sayyaf terrorist group in Marawi City. The AFP and PNP Commandos, led by Captain Jommel Ray Parreño (1st row,8th from left) and Captain Aris Gerero (1st row,10th from left), graced this Monday’s session where they were presented a Senate resolution honoring their heroism in fighting off terrorists in Marawi City. Senators who are also in the photo are (1st row, left to right) Senator Gregorio Honasan, Senator Risa Hontiveros, Senator Richard Gordon, Senator Grace Poe, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III, Senator Sonny Angara, Senator Nancy Binay, Senator Migz Zubiri, Senator JV Ejercito, (2nd row, left to right) Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto and (3rd row) Senator Joel Villanueva.

Senate photo by photo by Alex Nueva Espana Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon

not further comment on such obviously fake news intended to harass the opposition.”

The senator also added that his Statements of Contributions and Expenditures filed at the Commission on Elections were open to public scrutiny.

Reacting to Duterte’s statements, Drilon thanked the president as he expressed hope that they would remain “friends” despite their disagreements on matters of policy.

“I remain grateful for, and acknowledge, the support the president gave me, as mayor of Davao City, in all my election campaigns. I hope we remain friends. He has my full respect,” the Senate minority leader said.

In an earlier statement, Malacañang also denied that the Duterte administration had something to do with allegations against Drilon but said that the Office of the Ombudsman and the Department of Justice (DOJ) should conduct an investigation into the matter.

“The Constitution in providing for accountability of public officers is the legal basis for the relevant government agency

Pimentel: House, Senate agree...

PAGE A5 t and is consistent with the law,” the Senate leader added.

Alvarez also issued a similar statement. “[We agreed that] we will talk about the details first; for example, the structure of the government until we complete the new Constitution. Afterwards, it will not make any difference anymore if we vote separately or jointly,” the House speaker told radio station dzBB. Alvarez likewise clarified that there was no animosity between the two chambers despite the conflicting views on how to vote on the Charter change.

“Actually ‘yung word war para sa media yun, para naman medyo masaya tayo, (Actually, the word war was for the media so that we could be amused),” he said.

Alvarez previously warned fellow congressmen that they may receive “zero budget” if they refused to support the federalism initiative of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte but later dismissed his threat as a “joke.”

The House speaker also recently earned the ire of several members of the Senate after urging the public not to vote for senators who are against the shift to federalism. n

Duterte names members...

PAGE A5 t Kalinga lawmaker • Ali Pangalian Balindong, Lanao del Sur politician • Eddie Mapag Alih, Tawitawi politician • Bienvenido Reyes, retired Supreme Court associate justice • Julio Teehankee, former dean of De La Salle University’s College of Liberal Arts • Antonio Eduardo Nachura, retired Supreme Court associate justice • Rodolfo Dia Robles, 1967 bar topnotcher • Virgilio Castillo Bautista, former University of Baguio president • Ranhilio Callangan Aquino, dean of the San Beda College of Law • Victor de la Serna, former Bohol governor • Edmund Tayao, political science professor Duterte signed the appointment papers January 24 but Malacañang released the papers to media on Thursday.

In December 2016, he signed Executive Order 10 creating a 25-member body to study and review the provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea will act as an observer during the deliberations of the panel. The committee will then submit its report, recommendations and proposals to the president.

Charter change is among the top priorities of the 17th Congress this year. The Senate and the House of Representatives began deliberations on charter change last week.

The leaders of Senate and House of Representatives have agreed to focus on identifying constitutional amendments that will be presented to the people instead of fighting over how to amend the charter.

Federalism advocates like Puno and Pimentel believe that if the country is shifting to a federal form of government from a unitary one, a greater part of the Constitution should be revised. n

FOR THE STATUS QUO. Jorge San Mateo, national president of the Pinagkaisa ng Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston), stands on top of a jeepney to speak out against the government’s plan to modernize jeepneys. About 200 members of Piston participated in a rally that started in front of the National Housing Authority at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday. Protesters then marched to the headquarters of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

Inquirer.net photo

to conduct an investigation,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement on Tuesday, January 23.

“I would hope that the Ombudsman on its own will conduct its probe and I think the Department of Justice also on its own should conduct its own probe, based on the statement,” he added.

Describing Napoles as the “central figure” in the pork barrel scam, Roque further remarked that she should have evidence to support her claim.

“Obviously Janet Lim-Napoles is the central figure in this scam, let her speak, and I’m sure in addition to what she has to say, she would have physical evidence to back up whatever it is that she alleges,” he said. n

India’s Modi expresses support for Duterte’s drug war might be a need for international cooperation to deal with the menace of drugs,” Roque, who was NEW DELHI — Indian Prime present during the meeting, said Minister Narendra Modi has ex- in a press conference here.

“The prime minister highlighted pressed support for President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against that it should be of the same scale narcotics and called for stronger and scope as the international cocooperation against illegal drugs, operation that we have today on Malacañang said on Thursday, climate change,” he added.

Efforts to mitigate climate January 25.

Presidential spokesman Harry change have gained support from Roque said the drug menace was several governments. A 2015 one of the topics discussed during climate agreement that seeks to Modi’s meeting with Duterte last limit global warming by cutting carbon emissions has been ratiWednesday.

“When the prime minister ex- fied by 174 countries.

The problem of illegal drugs pressed his support for the ongoing concern of our president, Phil- is one of the issues being adippine President Duterte, against dressed by the Association of drugs, he, in fact, said that there Southeast Asian Nations. The by alexiS

RomeRo Philstar.com

regional bloc has crafted a work plan on securing communities against illicit drugs to coordinate strategies to achieve a drug-free ASEAN. Roque said Duterte took some time explaining to Modi his war on drugs, a campaign that has drawn flak among human rights advocates who believe that it encourages summary killings.

“The prime minister said that he realizes that the threat of drugs to young people is very, very serious,” Roque said.

Modi raised the drug menace issue during the G13 summit, where he also stressed that drug traffickers use proceeds from their illicit trade to fund terrorist activities. n

A January 26-february 1, 2018 • neW yOrK anD neW JerSey aSIan JOurnaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

JANUARY 26-FEBRUARY 1, 2018

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N UA RY 26 , 20 1 8

CHESS GRANDMASTER WESLEY SO

MAKING IT TO THE TOP THROUGH SKILLS, HARD WORK AND DEDICATION BY

IT all turns deadly after the first handshake.

Silence all throughout, bowed heads and downcast eyes, not out of dismay, but out of concentration. Every piece is essential, every move, crucial.

Under scrutiny, each motion is analyzed, and what comes next is highly anticipated. There is no room for even the slightest error in this game, as miscalculation screams defeat. And defeat is one’s end game.

This is Wesley So’s environment. At 23, he is now the second best chess player in the world. Considered one of the youngest grandmasters on the planet, his position in the chess world proves that mastery and skillfulness lie not on age, but on dedication and ability.

In the Philippines, So started playing chess when he was 6 years old. With an incredible skill at such a young age, he was normally seen roaming around the community daring people to play with him.

“I started as a kid then kept working at it,” he told the Asian Journal.

He did work — real hard. At age 9, he acquired his very first major tournament victory in the 2003 Philippine National Chess Championships.

A win year after year During the 2004 6th Asian Age-Group Chess Championship, So received gold medals for both standard and rapid chess under the individual category, and silver on the team category. He was also 13th place in the World Youth Chess Championship in Greece that same year.

In 2005, So won gold awards in standard, rapid, and blitz chess under the individual category at the 7th ASEAN Age-Group Chess Championship in Thailand. Aside

NATHALIE ROBLES / AJPRESS

from that, he also tied in first place at the World Youth Chess Championship in Greece. He also won ninth place in the 12th Nice Open International in France and was declared best among under — 12 players in Masters/ Challengers International Open Tournament in Singapore.

In 2006, he was awarded his first Grand Master (GM) norm, a title signifying a high level of performance in a chess tournament at the Offene Internationale Bayerische Schach Meisterschaft in Bad Wiessee, Germany.

The following year, So gained his second GM norm during the World Junior Chess Championship, later that year, he achieved his third in the 3rd Pichay Cup International Open in the Philippines.

So went on to became the youngest National Junior Open Chess Champion in 2007, wherein he was awarded with a gold medal on board one, at the World Under16 Team Championships.

Sacrifice, discipline and dedication At 14, Federation Internationale des Echecs (FIDE) or World Chess Federation, the governing body for international chess competitions, labeled him Grandmaster, making him ninth youngest grandmaster in history and was then the strongest player in the world under 16.

“To be on this level is a full time commitment not an easy ride,” So told the Asian Journal in an interview. Adding that sacrifice and discipline are two key factors in his conditioning, he explained that unlike majority of people his age, he rarely engages himself online. “I do not use social media and I stay off the internet,” he said.

“I work every day on the board and

have some form of physical exercise every day. I do not use social media and I stay off the internet. Time is very precious and I have a lot to learn. The wise use of time is critical to being the best you can be.”

The grandmaster also utilizes his schedule in the best way possible. “Time is very precious and I have a lot to learn. The wise use of time is critical to being the best you can be.”

In 2008, during the ASEAN Masters Chess Circuit Grandmaster Tournament in Indonesia, So won fourth place this was followed by a Battle of Grandmasters in his home country, the Philippines of the same year. He also went to UAE for the 10th Dubai Open Chess Championship and 2008 JAPFA Chess Festival wherein he both got first place.

Out of 73 players in the 2nd Philippine Open International Chess Championship, Wesley So was ranked 10. Also, he won second place in the 1st Subic Bay International Open Chess Championship.

Despite his titles and achievements, humility still stems out of the chess grandmaster as he described the love he has for the sport.

“They say this sort of work is not something you choose, it chooses you. I am grateful to be chosen,” he said. “It (chess) is my job and I am good at it and the people I work with treat me with respect. It is an arena I am comfortable in.”

During the 37th Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, So became the youngest Filipino International Master and the youngest member of the national men’s team.

So acquired a gold medal during the World Youth U-16 Chess Olympiad in the individual category, followed by a tie for second best in Vietnam’s 1st Dragon Capital Chess Open or also known as 1st ASEAN Grand Prix all in 2008.

Willpower and dedication strongly emanates from the Chinese-Filipino chess player. He frequently exercises calm and tranquility that even stress cannot tear down.

“I am not a person who gets stressed easily. It rarely happens to me. I think prepare well and get your work done and no reason for stress,” he shared In 2009, he won first place for the 71st Corus Chess in Netherlands wherein he was given the Beste Jone Talente award. He also won the Battle of Grandmasters in the

Wesley So

Photo courtesy of Antonio Milesi for Wesleyso.com

Philippines and became the top junior winner for Aeroflot Open in Russia both in 2009 and 2010.

The following year, he won in NH Chess Tournament Rising Stars vs Experience and he acquired silver medal for the Team Philippines on the 16th Asian Games in China.

It was in 2011 when he was awarded with a gold medal during the 26th Southeast Asian Games by finishing undefeated with 9 points in the Blitz chess competition.

He was first place in Blitz chess and was undefeated in all 18 games during the 11th Asian Individual Open/ Blitz Chess Championships.

He also became the 2012 champion in French League Top 12 also undefeated in 10 games.

He won first place in Canada for two separate meets: Quebec Open Chess Championship and Toronto International Chess Championship.

He also ranked first place in SPICE Blitz 2012.

So had nine victories in 2013 alone. He was first place in the Reykjavik Open wherein he was the first player from the Philippines to ever participate and he was also the first player in the 67-year history of American Collegiate Chess to break the 2700 rating mark. From then on he was known as the no. 2 ranked junior chess player in the world.

Asked on how important the sport is to him, So described chess as something he holds dear. “It is my job. It has given me a present and a future. I feel God have given me a gift that I love and respect,” he said.

More wins His other wins for the year include Final Four of College Chess and The Bill Wright Saint Louis Open both won also in 2014, Calgary International Chess Classic

So is currently comepeting in the Tata Chess Steel Masters 2018 in Wijk aan Zee, the Netherlands. On Wednesday, January 24, So lost his way in an endgame battle with Carlsen and absorbed a 75-move defeat of a Queen’s Pawn London System that dealt a big blow to his title bid.

and Blitz Championship, Las Vegas International Chess Festival, 27th Summer Universiade, 2nd Noel Skelton Open, 17th Unive Chess Tournament Hoogeven and Pan American Intercollegiate Chess Championship.

In 2014, So won first place in the following tournaments: Capablanca Memorial, National Open Blitz Sectionals Las Vegas International Chess Festival, ACP Golden Classic, 3rd Noel Skelton Open, Millionaire Chess and North American Open.

22nd Bunratty Chess Festival, Cez Chess Trophy 4 Game Match, Bilbao Chess Masters were among the tournaments he won first place in during 2015.

Last year, he won The Sinquefield Cup, 42nd Chess Olympiad, London Chess Classic and Grand Chess Tour.

“I am close to challenging for the world championship. It brings me more support and I get better invitations to the biggest events.

Plus you learn more when working with the top players and my ambition is always to expand my

understanding,” he shared.

He also urges those who aspire to excel in the field of chess to dedicate themselves to the sport and commit wholeheartedly.

“If you love to work and study, this is the job for you. If you need more socialization, more hanging out, more party time, it is definitely not for you. Most importantly pray and ask God to guide your way.”

At present, So now plays for the United States. He migrated for a better opportunity abroad but was absorbed by the chess team.

“If you are willing to work hard every door opens. They respect talent and hard work here. I have never felt discriminated against or disrespected,” he said.

He also mentioned that he had to make an effort in order to be a Filipino athlete in the U. S. “I made an effort to learn what they want here and have already received so much in the way of encouragement and practical support and I am not even a U.S. citizen. I love to work hard here because there are rewards for your efforts,” he said.

John Lloyd Cruz competes with Hollywood Breanna in her mom Jessica’s footsteps actors for international acting award

by RICKY LO Philstar.com

who is tied with series “Boardwalk Empire,” as well as “Dunkirk” Irish actor Barry Keoghan and “BPM” ABS-CBN actor John Lloyd French actor Arnaud Valois.

Cruz, who is still on leave, has been “Congratulations John Lloyd nominated for Best Supporting on your nomination under the Actor for the film “Ang Babaeng Best Supporting category for Humayo” at the 15th International ‘Ang Babaeng Humay’” in the Cinephile Society awards.

15th International Cinephile Cruz is set to compete with Society awards,” Star Magic American actors Willem announced on Twitter last Dafoe, famous for Tuesday, January 23. his character in On his Instagram “Spiderman,” Armie account, John Lloyd (@ Hammer, also ekomsi) posted that never known as “The in his wildest dreams Long Ranger,” and did he think that he will Michael Stuhlbarg, be nominated in the international awards.

“Wasak. ICS Awards never in my wildest dreams,” the versatile actor posted.

He added that when he read that his idol Daniel Day-Lewis has been nominated as Best Actor for the movie “Phantom Thread,” he felt that he already won.

“When I read Daniel Day-Lewis John Lloyd Cruz ABS-CBN photo

by JAN

MILO SEVERO Philstar.com

written in his category sabi ko uy panalo na ko.”

Lav Diaz’s revenge drama “Ang Babaeng Humayo” was also nominated for best adapted screenplay and best film not in the English language at the International Cinephile Society awards.

These nominations came almost two years after the film won the top prize at the 73rd Venice International Film Festival in 2016.

John Lloyd, for his part, plays the role of Hollanda, a transvestite whom Horacia eventually takes under her wing.

There is still no word as to when John Lloyd will be back on the limelight. Reports said he and his girlfriend Ellen Adarna are preparing for their upcoming wedding, but this has been denied

by Ellen’s best friend Beauty Gonzales.

Formed in 2003, the International Cinephile Society is an online group made up of approximately 100 accredited journalists, film scholars, historians, and other industry professionals who cover film festivals and events in five continents. Winners will be announced on February 4.

BEVERLY HILLS, California — “She will be a superstar!”

It’s a Thursday, Jan. 11, and we (Star correspondent Raymond Lo and immigration lawyer Jemela Nettles) are at a suite of the monthsold Waldorf Los Angeles having cocktails while waiting for the airing of the maiden episode of the reality TV show “Making a Model.”

Jessica Rodriguez is all nerves as she and husband David Bunevacz, along with children Hayca and Grant, do the rounds entertaining guests who are all excited to watch the show hosted by Yolanda Hadid, exwife of David Foster, a supermodel who appeared on the TV series “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.”

Jessica is talking about her daughter Breanna, 14, who is among the six teeners participating in the eight-episode show airing on the Lifetime channel. Together with their moms (called “Momagers”), the aspiring models spent two months in New York for the shoot starting in March last year.

“Am I a stage mom?” laughs Jessica while sipping champagne.

And before she can answer, Breanna beats her to it. “Yes, she is sometimes!”

The “viewing party” was

One of the six participants in the reality-TV show “Making a Model,” hosted by supermodel Yolanda Hadid, the daughter of Jessica Rodriguez and David Bunevacz is determined to make a name of her own.

Photo from Instagram/@ breanna.bunevac

originally scheduled at the house of Backstreet Boy Kevin Richardson, a good friend of the Bunevacz, until the guest list got longer, prompting Jessica and David to move the venue to the posh Waldorf (within shouting distance to Beverly Hilton where the Golden Globes awards are usually held).

Like the five other Momagers, Jessica believes that her daughter is the best.

And Hadid knows the feeling.

“Every girl on the planet has the dream to be a supermodel,” she was quoted in an interview. “I think (the show) is a great platform to have. We didn’t go out with all girls

that are 5’9” or 5’10” like the usual model. We have a great variety of different girls and they have personality because beauty alone is not enough, as you know.”

Everybody keeps quiet as the show unreels, showing the girls in their first “challenge” — conceptualizing a pictorial on the streets of the Big Apple, mentored and monitored by the Momagers.

Hadid serves as a mentor to the girls during the eight-week training program that tests their modeling capabilities as well as their motherdaughter bonds. At stake is a management contract with Hadid’s Continued on Page 3

Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ Dear attorney Gurfinkel: I am a green card holder, and petitioned my adult single child in June 2015 in the F-2B category. When I recently checked the USCIS website for processing times, it shows they’re processing F-2B petitions filed in late May 2015. Does this mean my adult child will be eligible for his green card in about a month, as May 2015 is a month away from June 2015? I’m so confused about processing times, priority dates, and visa bulletins, and what they all mean.

Very truly yours, rD Dear RD: For family petitions, there are two basic lines or processing times: 1. The processing time for USCIS to approve the petition; and 2. The waiting time for the visa to become available, based on the priority date (or date the petition was filed with the USCIS).

Just because USCIS approves the petition, does not necessarily mean the visa is immediately available. It could take many years after a petition has been approved for the priority date to become current and the visa to be available.

For example, if a person wants

Two different lines/processing times for family petitions to go into a theater, they must first stand in line to get the ticket at the ticket counter. After they get the ticket, they must now stand in another, longer line, to get inside the theater. In the same way, a person files a petition, and USCIS eventually approves that petition.

That is the “processing times” on the USCIS website. But after the petition is approved, they now must wait for their priority date to become current, which can take many years, depending on the type of family petition.

In your case, although USCIS may be processing F-2B petitions filed in late May 2015, the priority date (or waiting time for the actual green card or Visa) is now July 2006 as of February 2018. It is estimated that your child’s F-2B visa will not become available (or the priority date will not become current) until sometime in 2030. Just because the petition is approved, does not mean the person will be immediately eligible for a green card. They now must wait in the “second line” for the priority date to become current (unless they are an “immediate relative” (spouse, child under 21, or parent) of a U.S. citizen, in which case a visa is immediately available.)

You may want to consider other ways to bring these family

Breanna in her mom Jessica’s...

From Page 2

parents’ best assets,” claims Breanna who migrated to the States with company and the chance to be the family when she was five years represented by IMG Models in New old. “My mom is a model, a beauty York. queen, a singer and an actress, and “The girls couldn’t come to the show without their moms,” explained my dad is an athlete. I have the best of both worlds,” adds Breanna who Hadid in that same interview. is also an equestrienne. “I was into (Hadid’s Philippine connection includes Dr. Vicki Belo, David Foster’s horses as a girl. Now I am between friend who never fails to call on Vicki modeling and horseback-riding but I am more inclined towards when he’s in Manila; he was one of modeling.” the judges of Asia’s Got Talent). “The Thousands from all over the moms are very much a part of the States auditioned for the show but show.”

Breanna didn’t.

Says Jessica, “Yolanda taught us “I posted my book, ‘Date Like to let our kids fly on their own. The a Girl and Marry Like a Woman’ girls can do modeling but not travel (launched in 2016), on my around the world until they are 18.”

Instagramaccount, so I told Breanna Now in Grade 8 (high school), Breanna knows what she wants and that she should have her own IG account,” relates Jessica. “On her that’s to be a supermodel. fifth posting, complete with a video, “I am the sum total of my

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N UA RY 26 , 20 1 8

members to the U.S. faster, such as through an employer’s petition, which might take about two or three years versus 10 or 15 years.

The employer does not need to be a Fortune 500 company. It can even be a six-bed care home, as long as the employer is earning enough money to afford the alien’s wages. You may want to consult with an attorney to consider if there are other, faster ways to bring your family members to the U.S. ***

Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter.

No 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: (866)—GURFINKEL

Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

we got word from the production company. We were interviewed,” adding with a laugh, “and I think they liked my accent. After six months, we were informed that Breanna was in.”

Six more episodes and anything can happen.

“I don’t know what’s gonna happen,” says Breanna, brimming with hope. “We can get a lot of opportunities, hopefully. Whatever happens, I will start modeling.”

So how did Breanna fare on the first (and second, aired on Jan. 18) episodes? Watch “Making a Model” and see for yourselves.

“All I remind Breanna is, ‘Be humble, be grounded,’ to treasure her friends and not to forget the people who are helping her,” Jessica tells us before we bid her goodbye, and good night.

And, yes, good luck to Breanna!

ABANDONED BY HER BIRTH PARENTS, WILL NIKKA BE LEFT BEHIND AGAIN WHEN USCIS CHALLENGED HER ADOPTIVE PARENT’S ELIGIBILITY TO PETITION HER? Lilia (right) and her husband Peter filed a petition to adopt Nikka (left) when the child was 12 years old. The adoption decree was issued six (6) days before Nikka turned 16 years old, and the certificate of finality came out two (2) months after Nikka’s 16th birthday. When Lilia and Peter filed an Immediate Relative Petition for Nikka, the USCIS served a Request for Evidence (RFE), challenging them eligibility to adopt Nikka. Lilia and Peter were devastated, depressed, and in despair. Would this mean losing the chance to be reunited with their adopted child - whom they loved and considered their own? Watch how leading US immigration attorney MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL came to the rescue and secured approval of their petition in a mere two months, on an encore episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAGlAyA A ‘SELFIE’ is a do-it-yourself self-portrait using a handheld digital camera or the now ubiquitous cellphone. A ‘selfie’ can be taken for laughs. But more often than not, it is for the purpose of immediate electronic posting in any one of the social networks, usually Facebook or Instagram for all to see. In our electronic world, it is a way of attracting or demanding attention, sort of saying to your world of followers or connections, “Look at me. Look at me.”

The most famous ‘selfie’ is

The ‘Selfies’ generation idolatry on steroids (Part 1 of 2)

“Vanity of vanities; All is vanity.: –Ecclesiastes the one taken by one of 3 heads of state (USA, Denmark and the UK) during the funeral of Nelson Mandela. That ‘selfie’ created a big flap for its impropriety considering the somber occasion. It also reportedly became a source of jealousy and frosty discord in the White House. The blonde Danish head was flanked by 2 men in that photo while Michelle Obama sat on one side of the President, looking appropriately somber and visibly

unimpressed by the juvenile stunt.

I have used that cellphone feature myself a few times. It is convenient not to have to impose on someone else to take a photo of yourself on your cellphone.

Although I must say the results of all those close-up ‘selfie’ shots with a moon face and all the eye bags and the wrinkles magnified are strong arguments against selfies.

Not to worry though, vanity Continued on Page 6

An Asian Journal Magazine

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N uA RY 26 , 20 1 8

On the PEP Front

Take some time to enhance your knowledge

vaccine) in 1796 after he noticed a milkmaid who survived cowpox seemed immune from small pox.

4. Rosaline – Shakespeare’s Romeo’s first love before Juliet BoBBy T. yalong in Romeo & Juliet… was merely mentioned in passing to establish SINCE education, as it has repetitively been defined, is a life- her vague character.

5. George Eliot – A brilliant long process of adjustment of an 19th century novelist who’s real individual to his physical and social environment, we might as well birthname was Mary Ann Evans. unswervingly exert unbounded ef- The penname or nom de plume or pseudonym “George Eliot” was fort to accumulate all sort of facts used to conceal herself from reand informative ideas that could indubitably enrich our knowledge viewers who prejudiced women in the field. Even Amantine-Lucile and better understanding of the Aurore Dupin used “George Sand” world around us.

Charlotte used “Currer” and Emily Aside from the acquisition of personal development, improving Bronte used “Ellis Bell”, Louise May Alcott used “A. M. Barnard,” Violet our skills and proficiency in any Paget used “Vernon Lee,” and given situation, learning what’s Karen Blixen used “Isak Dinesen.” beyond the four corners of the 6. Luddites – means “People classroom greatly benefits those who opposed new technology.” who dig deeper far beneath and The original luddites were British soar far beyond what was within workers who destroyed new reach. machineries brought to their Cultivating one’s brainpower factories believing that the new does not require any formal technology were threats to their education. It’s just a matter of jobs. participating in mentally engag7. A cow has 4 stomachs: ing activities and stimulating the first two, the rumen and the one’s mind to gather new ideas. reticulum, are like storage stomRetention enables one to amass a good fortune of vocabulary and achs and after chewing stored cud it is sent to the second set of awareness. stomachs, the omasum and the Let’s go over innumerable abomasum, for full digestion. facts that we might have stud8. Antebellum Era - In Ameriied before but been disposed to can history it was the period oblivion for lack of constant usage… and an exhaustive review or before the Civil War… from the words “ante” meaning before… reevaluation is best to refresh the and “bellum” meaning war. memory of these historical facts, 9. Palindrome – a word that commonly misused terms, and reads the same backwards as it other vital information. does forward. Example: racecar, Let’s start with a bit of infornoon, madam, refer, civic, radar, mative knowledge and seldomlevel, etc. used vocabulary: 10. First ever human inven1. Benjamin Franklin – briefly tion – Early writers said it was fire served as the first Post Master but for the majority it was cattle General of the US Postal Service breeding. humans first domesafter the London-oriented imperial postal service was overthrown ticated cattle over 10,000 years ago. in July 26, 1775.

11. The Weimar Republic 2. Sally Ride – The first American woman to fly in space on June – was Germany’s first democratic government set-up after the first 18, 1983 aboard Space Shuttle World War ended. It presided over Challenger’s STS-7 mission.

3. Edward Jenner – developed economic disaster, partly because of the millions of dollars Germany the first vaccine (the small pox People, Events, Places

had to pay out for losing the war, and this fueled the rise of hitler who took over in 1933.

12. Philosophy – funny that the word “philosophy’ was actually coined from two words: “philo” meaning “love” and “Sophia” meaning “wisdom,” hence, “Love of Wisdom.”

13. Pangaea – the name “Pangaea” comes from the ancient Greek words meaning “whole” and “earth.” It was the supercontinent thought to have existed around 250 million years ago which subsequently broke apart into the present-day continents of North and South America, Africa, and Australia.

14. Gregor Mendel –An Austrian monk who pioneered Genetic Science in 1866 and studied Genetic Inheritance by observing how pea plants passed on some traits but not others.

15. Caligula – A Roman Emperor who became famous after his death for allegedly making his horse a Roman consul. Notorious for his insanity and depravity, Caligula appointed one of his favorite horses, Incitatus, as one of the highest public offices in the Roman government.

16. Earth’s age -Scientists were able to estimate the earth’s age as 4.5 billion years old based on radiometric age dating of meteorite materials and terrestrial and lunar rock samples.

17. Thermodynamics – The branch of physics or physical science that deals with the relations between heat and other forms of energy such as mechanical, electrical, or chemical energy.

18. hegemony – means political or military dominance.

19. WWII greatest number of military deaths – The Soviet Union lost an incredible number of fighting men during the Second World War with an estimate of 8.8 million to 10.7 million. In contrast, France and Great Britain each lost less than a million while Germany lost about 5 million.

20. Gynecomastia - enlargement of breast tissues in men

PH wins 1st runner-up at Miss Intercontinental 2017 ThE Philippines’ bet, Katarina Rodriguez, wins as 1st runnerup and as Miss Intercontinental Asia and Oceania at the Miss Intercontinental 2017 pageant held in Egypt on Wednesday, January 24. “hi, everybody, sa lahat ng Filipinos, okay lang ito. Okay, okay?

I miss all of you, I miss my country.

It was a tough ride. It was a lot of work, a lot of hours, and mabuhay ka! Mahal kita!,” a teary-eyed Katarina said in her Facebook message to her fellow Filipinos, as posted in the pageant’s page.

This is the highest place a Philippine candidate has reached Left: Veronica Salas Vallejo of Mexico and Katarina Rodriguez of the Philippines hold hands as the host is about to announce the winner of Miss Intercontinental 2017. Right: Katarina let in the international competition. her tears flow at her presentation as Miss Intercontinental 1st runner-up.

Miss Philippines Christi Lynn Screenshots from Facebook/Miss Intercontinental McGarry also finished at 1st passion, soul, and creativity. of Brazil as third runner-up; runner-up and as Continental When I heard this word and its Lizeth Villanueva of Colombia as Queen of Asia and the Pacific in definition, it resonated with me 4th runner-up; and Lee Su Jin of 2015. ‘til now and I think it will for the Korea as 5th runner-up.

Katarina was close to getting rest of my life. Therefore, that At the question and answer the Philippines its first Miss is the most important thing I portion, Katarina was asked Intercontinental crown, only learned while participating at what is the most important thing lagging behind Veronica Salas Miss Intercontinental — that is to she learned from joining in the Vallejo of Mexico, who was do all things with soul, passion, pageant. crowned Miss Intercontinental and creativity.”

Katarina then answered: 2017. Katarina also landed at the Prior to joining pageants, “The most important thing that third place of the competition’s the 24-year-old Katarina was in I have learned in joining Miss online poll and in the top 5 of the the second place of the reality Intercontinental is an Arabic dance contest.

TV show “Asia’s Next Top Model word named after one of the Other winners are Cathelijne Sunrise Resorts and that is Meraki. Cycle 2.” (Deni Rose M. Afinidadheppenhuis of Netherlands for Bernardo/Philstar.com) It means to do all things with 2nd runner-up; Amanda Cardoso

What Backstreet Boy Kevin loves most about Manila

by Ricky Lo Philstar.com

Kevin Richardson

21. Aerobic and anaerobic – “Aerobic’ means “with oxygen” and “anaerobic” means without.

Anaerobic exercise is the type where one gets out of breath in just a few moments like when one lifts weights, when one sprints, or when one climbs a long flight of stairs. Aerobic exercise, sometimes known as “cardio’ … the exercise that requires pumping of oxygenated blood by the heart to deliver oxygen to working muscles like swimming, running, dancing, skiing, and kickboxing 22. Zeitgeist – (noun) the intellectual group of an era 23. Skulduggery – (Scottish) An underhanded or scrupulous, trickery; deceitful behavior 24. Gellasenheit – An Amish term which means “To keep the earth as God created it.”

25. Schadenfreude (noun) - pleasure derived from another person’s misfortune.

26. Sildenafil Citrate – An Erectile Dysfunction treatment which can also treat high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension). Popular brands are Viagra and Revatio.

27. Kippah or yarmulke (noun) – a small brimless hat or covering men worn by Jews to fulfill the customary requirement held by Orthodox halachic authorities in studying, praying, or visiting sacred places.

28. Tzitzit or Tzitzis (noun) – A string hanging on the side of a man to remind them of their religious obligations and exodus from Egypt.

29. Bibliokleft – one who steals books 30. Acnestis – the part of the back between the shoulder blades and the loins which is hard to reach to scratch.

31. Meldrop – a drop of mucus at the nose whether produced by colds or otherwise.

32. Octothorpe – the symbol “number” (#) in a typewriter commonly used now as a trending “hashtag” symbol in social media.

Continued on Page 5

Lunar New Year special merchandises available at 99 Ranch Market New Jersey ThE age old Lunar New Year one of the most important festivals in China. 99 Ranch Market is now offering wide range of Lunar New Year special merchandise for you to choose from.

99 Ranch Market is your destination for great gift ideas. You can find Assorted Candy Baskets and New Year Mix Candy Boxes for convenient gift selection. There are simply a limitless number of ideas for gift choices. If you are looking for candies, the Flying Elephant New Year Mix Candy Flower Box would be your best choice. We are also offering arrays of sweet rice, Lian-hwa New Year Rice Cake and Lily Rice Cake, all of which are very popular.

From the wide selections of fine gift packs to the exquisite liquor gift boxes, 99 Ranch Market is always here to fulfill your need for high quality Lunar New Year special selections.

Fresh Produce, Fish and Meat We carry sliced Berkshire pork belly, fresh pork spare ribs, belt fish and red shrimp in the meat and seafood department. Moreover, you will find fresh produce such us Korean Shingo pears, melogold

pomelos, seafood mushrooms, lotus roots and tomatoes, all on sale!

Weekly Specials Squid Bran Fish Sauce, Soupy Bunm Sansui Tofu, Umeville Food Rice Cake, and helpware Stainless Steel Steamer. Please don’t miss out these hot sale items!

On January 27, 2018, the Edison store will celebrate their 1st Anniversary with some special activities! From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, customers may receive a free gift with a purchase receipt of $20 or more, and a free goody bag with a purchase receipt of $100 or more. Offer is good while supplies last. Furthermore, the Edison store’s 1st Anniversary birthday cake cutting will be taking place at 2:00 PM. All of our promotional events are planned for our beloved customers. We can’t wait to see you here in New Jersey!

Edison Store: 561 U.S 1, Edison, NJ 08817 Phone Number: 732-819-8889 Jersey City Store: 420 Grand Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302 Phone Number: 201-536-8899 (Advertising Supplement)

Gabbi Garcia wants to follow Wynwyn’s beauty queen steps NOW that Gabbi Garcia is a primetime queen, she also wants to become a beauty queen.

Since Gabbi now stars in her own TV drama with GMA-7 and has released her first single as a recording artist, following the footsteps of fellow Kapuso star Winwyn Marquez as a beauty titlist seems to be the next item on Gabbi’s bucket list.

“Actually, yeah!” Gabbi exclaimed when asked by Philstar. com if she wants to join pageants like Wyn. “It’s been a childhood dream of mine and I’m not closing my doors at all. I really want to explore that aspect of my career,” said the actress, who joined pageants when she was a kid.

Gabbi won as Miss Skin White 2011 and as Miss Solane 2013 (Teenies category).

“Ate Wyn is really inspiring because we’ve seen her join different pageants. We’ve seen her in her ups and her downs. So, I’m just so happy for her. She really proved herself worthy of that crown.”

Besides Wyn, Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach and Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup-Lee also serve as inspirations for Gabbi.

“Pia Wurtzbach is an icon.

She’s one of a kind,” enthused Gabbi, who likes beauty queens

KEVIN Richardson recently talked to Conversations, recalling what he and the other Backstreet Boys loved most about Manila.

“I remember how during our shows the fans sang along with us,” Kevin’s eyes lit up, touching his mustache. “I love how they knew every word of our songs. I also like the Filipinos’ sense of family, and their love for music and the arts.”

Since 1997, the Boys (including Nick Carter, AJ McLean, Brian Littrel and Brian Dorough) have performed in the Philippines many times that Kevin has lost count. In 2012, they did a show with the New Kids on the Block at the MOA Arena where the Backstreet Boys also performed in 2015.

“Yes,” smiled Kevin, “I remember.

I think that was after Pacquiao’s fight Continued on Page 4 Gabbi Garcia Photo from Instagram/@kevinscottrichardson

because “people listen to you and you can really speak your mind on certain advocacies, topics.”

“And I feel that I want to use that advantage of mine to speak up my mind and for people to listen to me,” Gabbi added.

Gabbi, however, will try her luck in pageants three to four years from now.

“Right now, I’m still very young. I’m only 19, so I want to focus muna on my showbiz career.

So, we’ll see.”

Whoever you are, whether a beauty queen or not, Gabbi said hair care products like Pantene Silky Smooth Care Shampoo and Conditioner are a must-have as smooth hair gives one confidence to face life’s everyday challenges.

“Being in front of the camera almost every day means changing and experimenting on different hair styles! While this is a fun part of the job for me, it also means that my hair is overworked and exposed to damage-causing fizz. Like most Filipinas, on off-cam days, all I want is hair that is smooth and falls naturally beautifully without fizz,” sadi Gabbi, who is the brand’s first Filipina ambassador in Asia.

Gabbi and Ruru Madrid, one of GMA’s hottest love teams, reunite in the original primetime

Winwyn Marquez

series “Sherlock Jr.” Janine Gutierrez joins the cast in a special role. Made for viewers of all ages, this action and drama-packed program is about the friendship between an investigative reporter and a dog.

The series introduces Serena, a lovable and smart Golden Retriever that will touch everyone’s lives and will teach them a lesson about love, life, family and friendship.

Roi Vinzon, Rochelle Pangilinan, Andre Paras, Kate Valdez, Sharmaine Arnaiz, Matt Evans, Yann Asistio, Sophia Pablo and “Philippine Comedy Queen” Ai Ai delas Alas complete the star-studded cast of “Sherlock Jr.” Rechie del Carmen helms this program.

This year, Gabbi’s “#Goal” is to focus on this soap opera.

“It’s pretty too much doing well,” Gabbi said of his love team with Ruru. “I missed doing a series with him, so (‘Sherlock Jr.’) is a treat for our fans.”

She assured that the show is something new “kaya dapat abangan.”

“For the first time ever, I’ll be working with a dog and I’ll be close with the dog. It’s for all ages,” assured Gabbi, who always had a dog since she was in grade two.

(Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/ Philstar.com)

Philstar.com photos

Why newbie actor Joshua Garcia is considered John Lloyd Cruz 2.0

BY MONET

Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS ADVANCES in science and technology bolster progress in almost all facets of human endeavor, making most (unfortunately, not all) people more comfortable, more efficient, and productive, not to mention other benefits we derive from them as individuals and as a society.

The birth of the mindboggling computer ushered in one of the brightest inventions of man, which enabled the exponential developments and proliferation of very efficient machines, devices, and gadgets.

Just like most progress, the computer age also brings with it some health, behavioral, social, and even legal consequences.

Its abuse leads to electronic addiction. Much like dealing with drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, personal and societal discipline is fundamental.

Of the 7 billion people on Earth, 6.8 billion have mobile phones. In the United States, 92 percent have their own mobile phone. In the Philippines, there are about 30.4 million mobile phone users in 2017. There are 84 percent of Americans who have a computer, and 73 percent of them have Internet connection. Tablets for kids are very popular today.

When was the word “computer” coined?

It was in 1613 when the word “computer” was first used, describing a human who performed calculations. This word lingered until the industrial revolution at the end of the 19th century developed machines whose main purpose was calculating. The first automatic computing machine was developed by Charles Babbage in 1822, but it was 15 years later when he proposed the first general mechanical computer,

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N UA RY 26 , 20 1 8

Robin Padilla: ‘Respect very much needed in showbiz’

LU

I HAVE written about John Lloyd Cruz in my column, and while the title (above) seems deprecating to him, allow me to say that it has nothing to do with his performance nor his overall personality. John Lloyd will always be John Lloyd.

This has more to do with the fact that these two actors would hold their own and have their own distinct style and persona that make each one unique.

However, there is no denying that young actor Joshua Garcia has the makings of a “John Lloyd Cruz.” And while the latter is taking a hiatus from showbiz, people are really noticing how these two can be two sides of the same coin. If Joshua could learn all he could from his ‘predecessor’s’ craft and his life choices, he may actually turn out to be a 2.0 version.

Joshua Garcia started out on the reality show “Pinoy Big Brother” back in 2014. Back then, he was this young, awkward 16-year-old boy from Batangas.

Now 19 years old, the boy has turned into a young man and is considered one of ABS-CBN’s fast-rising male stars. He starred in three hit movies and three teleseryes.

Joshua is the quintessential boy-next-door. He can play the role of a childish, hopeless romantic teenager and still pull off a serious and drama-heavy role with minimal effort. His smile can make a girl swoon but it’s his playful personality that makes him loveable to his fans and co-actors.

Joshua strikes one as the guy who is still bewildered by their success, yet knows how not to waste it.

I mean the guy takes his craft seriously!

“Nineteen years old pa lang ako, pero sobrang sineseryoso ko ‘yong craft ko.” Joshua said in his YES! Magazine interview.

“Ayaw nila ng pangit na pelikula.

Kailangan talaga makipagsabayan.

Pinipilit ko, ang hirap, ang galing ng mga kasama ko,” he said.

His efforts do pay off as his movie “Vince & Kath & James” was an MMFF top grosser. Even though the movie’s material may not be as groundbreaking compared to its contemporaries, it became the festival’s highest grosser

5

An Asian Journal Magazine

by JAN

MILO SEVERO

Philstar.com

KAPAMILYA actor Robin Padilla demanded to speak with Richard Yap first before accepting the role in their new teleserye with Jodi Sta Maria.

In an interview with the press, Robin said he asked Richard’s permission to become the third wheel in the already tried-andJoshua Garcia tested “JoChard” love team of Richard and Jodi. he is indeed showing some fine commending Joshua and his “Ha? Kasama si Richard Yap? acting chops. And though we’re loveteam Julia Barreto’s acting.

Ang alam ko kasi noong una, kami trying not to compare him to A year after their first movie (Jodi) tapos naging si Richard.

JLC (John Lloyd Cruz), his ability together is a sophomore effort Natakot talaga ko kasi teka muna to stand out with or without a helmed by acclaimed rom-com meron na silang pinagsamahan na leading lady is just undeniable. director Antoinette Jadaone, dalawa eh. Kaya nag-request ako Speaking of leading lady, his Love You to the Stars and Back. talaga na kung pwede makausap He also starred in one of the top- onscreen partner Julia Barretto is a si Richard kung papayag siya,” contributing factor to his success rated MMK episodes. His latest Robin said during the recent press and current teleserye, “The Good onscreen — maybe off-screen too conference of the “Sana Dalawa — who knows? Their team-up is Son,” is getting even greater Ang Puso Ko.” reviews, viewers are raving about oozing with chemistry.

In showbiz, Robin said, respect It actually has the makings of it. is very much needed. the John Lloyd-Bea Alonzo magic.

The story may seem too “Kaya noong pinayagan naman It may be too soon to tell but as familiar to Filipino viewers but ako ni Richard, unti-unti nawala far as the looks, charm, chemistry it captures the familial aspect yung pag-aalinlangan ko. Kasi and acting skills are involved, they in the situation. In this case, it may karapatan si Richard eh na have what it takes. revolved around the ‘sons’ hence, ‘Teka, bat ganun?’ Pero bilib naman Aside from Julia Barretto, the title. “The Good Son” is about talaga ko kasi gentleman siya at Joshua was also paired with Loisa a philandering husband who had pumayag naman siya.”

Andalio, Kira Balinger, and Jane two families, with one on the Regarding his meeting with Oineza. And just like JLC, he verge of falling apart.

Richard, Robin said it went very pairs seamlessly with them, not Victor Buenavidez (Albert well but at first, it was so serious. outshining them or overshadowed Martinez), a successful “Serious kasi noong una pero by them — his versatility is businessman who toiled his way nadala namin ‘yung kwentuhan to the top is married to Olivia (Eula outstanding. kung saan-saan, hangggang sa To Joshua Garcia, I see what Valdez). They have two sons Enzo nakarating na kami sa UFC, ‘yung people see in you — dedication.

(Jerome Ponce) and Cal (Nash suntukan, hanggang napagusapan And though we see so much of Aguas). na ‘yung work namin, na JLC in you as well, we know that The “other” family has a pagbutihan namin ‘yung show,” the you can make a name for yourself. much meager home. Racquel Version 2.0 or not, I hope you (Mylene Dizon) who now has a continue to love your craft by son Obet (McCoy de Leon) with improving each time and make Matias (Ronnie Lazaro). Victor your own new and improved has a son, Jopet (Joshua Garcia) From Page 4 version. Good luck! with Racquel. Things have gotten complicated as confrontations *** 33. Augend & addend – the started when Victor suddenly died.

Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award- first and the second quantity in They wondered what had winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own adding two things. Example: 3 + 6 caused Victor’s sudden demise, chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern … “3” is the augend and “6” is the or who was behind it—a fact that California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, addend. would turn their worlds upside Monet is known as an all-around artiste who 34. Grommet – an eyelet of down and baffle the minds of produces sold-out fashion and awards shows firm material (usually metal) used viewers. as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. to strengthen or protect an openPlaying Jopet’s role, Joshua’s Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary ing for something (like string or talent shines like you’ve never all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, nail) passed through it. seen it before. He shows depth in your solution to discoloration . To contact his acting–something that’s not Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or easy for such a young actor but email him at monetsalon@aol.com alendar

Robin Padilla

ABS-CBN photo

controversial “Pilipinas Got Talent” host said.

For his part, Richard said when he heard that Robin wanted to talk to him, he first taught that it was going to be a “getting to know each other” meeting only.

“Hindi ko naman talaga alam kung ano ‘yung concerns niya.

So hindi ako nag-aalangan na magkita kami talaga,” Richard said.

“Maybe that’s the reason why he is Robin Padilla is because of his humility. Kumbaga hindi n’ya nakikita kung gaano siya

kalaking artista. Nung nalaman namin na makakatrabaho namin siya, kami ‘yung parang ‘Ha? Makakasama naming siya?’ Kasi di ba nakikita mo sa TV, iniidolo ng napakaraming tao. Ako personally, humanga ako sa kanya sa pagiging humble niya,” Jodi said.

“Nagpapasalamat siya sa amin when in fact, kami ang dapat magpasalamat sa kanya.

Kasi mahirap maghanap ng isang charater na papasok dito sa show na babagay sa story na ito. Siya lang ang pwedeng gumanap nun,” Richard assured. (Philstar.com)

Take some time to enhance...

Electronic addicts which was called the Analytical Engine.

The first electromechanical binary programmable functional computer, called Z1, was created

by Konrad Zuse, a German, in his parents’ living room between 1936 and 1938. The computers then were huge, occupying an entire room, compared to today’s miniature and a lot more powerful devices. But the foundation for theories on computing and computers were originally proposed by Alan Turing in 1936, called the Turing machine. The fundamentals Turing set have enabled the development of our computers of today.

When was portable computer born?

Osborne I, released on April 1981, was truly the first portable computer or laptop, developed by Adam Osborne.

It weighed 24.5 pounds, with a 5-inch display, 64 KB of memory, two floppy drives, and ran the CP/M 2.2 operating system, and a modem, priced at $1,795. It was in 1975 when Ed Roberts came up with the term “personal computer, introducing his Altair 8800, although many considered Kenbak-1, which came out in 1971 for $750 as the first personal computer.

Is computer addiction real?

Yes, it is. I know because I love electronics and feel the temptation. Usually it is a combination of computer (internet) addiction and cell phone (text or call) addiction.

The signs and symptoms are very obvious among young and old alike, and even among toddlers. They would rather delay everything else, even their meals or sleep, in favor of computing, browsing, doing social media, or gaming, or texting or calling. They sleep and wake up with a cell phone or tablet or laptop in bed.

Lo-bat drives them anxious and angry, and toddlers have been known to throw tantrums and cry.

How serious is the problem?

The situation is getting more and more serious around the world where these devices are available. Parents are quite aware of this addiction, saying this is a new form of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), labeling it computer/mobile phone ADD. Pediatricians and psychologists are seeing more and more adolescents and even toddlers with this problem.

School performance suffers too.

Those addicted to computer games have increased risk for restlessness, anxiety, depression, weight gain, and metabolic syndrome. Carpal Tunnel and vision problem is also common from computer abuse. The question of radiation is still an unsettled matter, even with the use of mobile phones.

What is the social impact of this addiction?

Electronic addicts keep to themselves. They are in their own private world for hours, not talking to anyone, not even to one another, much less their parents. The same goes true with toddlers, who would develop attention deficit, with their external (non-electronic) environment, poor eating habit, slower speech development, and diminished social skills. These are also found among older children and some adults. There were reports that kids had threatened to shoot their parents for cutting their computer use. Misuse or abuse of social media could also ruin privacy, invite identity theft, expose children/teenagers to dangerous situations from criminals, and potential legal dilemmas.

Does this addiction affect family life?

Definitely. When everybody, parents included, go separate ways at home, in their own little cocoon, their own private world, with their electronic device, and not talk to each other, or even eat or pray together, family bonding is negatively impacted. Unless Continued on Page 7

C

35. Misanthrope – someone who dislikes people in general 36. Aspergillum – an implement used for sprinkling holy water in religious ceremonies 37. Bibliopole – a person who buys and sells books especially rare ones.

38. Blatherskite - a person who talks at great length without making much sense.

of Events

across

39. Borborygmus – a rumbling or gurgling noise in the intestines.

40. Bruxism – involuntary and habitual grinding of the teeth Exciting, isn’t it? Well, more worth-knowing words next issue.

To be continued.

For comment and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS JA N UA RY 28

SIPA hosts Pinay Empowerment Brunch in Los Angeles Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) will host its second Pinay Empowerment Brunch on Sunday, January 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will be held at BARKADA (1253 Vine Street, Hollywood, CA). The event will feature a panel with Cher Calvin (KTLA 5 TV), Isa Fabro (Chef, Unit 120), Janelle S. Foster (BET/Viacom), and Kimmy Maniquis (California Conference for Equality & Justice). It will be moderated by Rob Asghar (author/commentator whose work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, CNN, Forbes, etc). To purchase tickets, please visit: https://sipa.ticketsocket.com/event/PINAY-EMPOWERMENT-BRUNCHII. $30 online pre-sale/$40 general admission. Ticket includes a gourmet Pilipino brunch by Barkada.

F E B R UA RY 3

TFCU talks heads to UC Davis TFCU Talks will be in Davis, California on Saturday, February 3, 2018. An affiliate of ABSCBN International, TFCU Talks Davis will feature a lineup of top industry leaders to connect, inspire, and empower college students and young professionals to help them realize their full potential. TFCU Talks Davis is co-presented by Mga Kapatid (My Brothers and Sisters) - a social, political, cultural, and academic organization for the Pilipino-American community at UC Davis. The event takes place at the Wyatt Pavilion Theatre in UC Davis (Arboretum Dr, Davis, CA 95616). Speakers include Christine Gambito (comedian, YouTube personality), Sydney Loyola (trans choreographer), Rudy Corpuz Jr. (co-founder of United Playaz), and Mike Sagun (career coach). TFCU Talks Davis is an exclusive free event with limited seating - first come, first served. For all ticketing information, and to reserve your spot, please visit tfcudavis.eventbrite.com.

F E B R UA RY 2 0

“Usapang Pagkain”: A monthly series exploring wellness with Filipino cuisine in Chicago, IL Community-based organization AFIRE (Alliance of Filipinos For Immigrants Rights & Empowerment) and food media and events group Filipino Kitchen will explore wellness and health with Filipino Cuisine in a monthly series, Usapang Pagkain. The event series is free and open to the community. Each event will highlight a Filipino dish or dishes, including recipes. During the weekday evening events, a light dinner of the highlighted dishes will be provided. Made possible with a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, the purpose of the series is to explore how Filipino food can best serve our community. On Tuesday, February 20 from 6 to 8 p.m., the focus is “Healthy & Happy Hearts.” The event will take place at the Hana Center (4300 N. California Ave., Chicago, IL). Schedule and venues are subject to change, please check http://afirechicago.org and http://filipino.kitchen for the most up-todate information.

- first come, first served. For all ticketing information, and to reserve your spot, please visit tfcudavis.eventbrite.com.

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

6

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N uA RY 26 , 20 1 8

Kylie Verzosa cries ‘misquoted’ on Coco Martin’s relationship status

“No, I think I said otherwise!” she said when asked again if Coco is single.

She also confirmed that Coco is indeed seeing actress Julia Montes.

“I’ve never seen them together.

But I heard good things about them, so I wish them the best!” Kylie said.

Knowing that Coco is not single, Kylie stressed that she is not willing to date her “Ang Panday” director.

For her, he is more of a mentor, so she looks forward to working with him again in the future.

“Sana! He’s super fun to work with and super nag-bibigay s’ya ng information, more on mentor s’ya,” explained Kylie, who learned from Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa and Coco Martin and Julia Montes in ‘A Moment in Time.’ Coco to watch more Filipino movies Philstar.com photos and to read more Tagalog books, so said, “isn’t currently single.”

“I WAS misquoted!” Miss she can become more comfortable A news report said “Verzosa International 2016 Kylie Verzosa speaking in the vernacular. heard otherwise.” exclaimed when asked if she really “It’s a whole different industry “I heard he wasn’t,” Kylie was confirmed that Coco Martin is than what I’m used to. It’s a whole quoted in the news report as single. experience for me,” she said of her saying.

Kylie worked with Martin for first movie. She disclosed that she is While many might interpret his directorial debut for last year’s already working on the next one. this as Kylie saying that Coco Metro Manila Film Festival entry, Has it always been her dream to is single, in a recent interview “Ang Panday.” become an actress? with the beauty queen during a Early this year, Kylie was “Siguro, parang hidden dream SuperStar Virgo event where she is or hidden passion of mine. Siguro interviewed at “Tonight With Boy a brand ambassador, she clarified Abunda,” where she was asked by ngayon lang natutupad or sana to Philstar.comwhat she really the show’s host, Boy Abunda, if she gusto ko pa s’yang ma-develop this meant. is willing to date Coco, who Boy year!”

by Deni Rose M. AfiniDAD-BeRnARDo Philstar.com

The ‘Selfies’ generation...

From Page 3

will always find a way. There are telescopic, retractable stick-like gadgets you can buy that you can place your cellphone at one end that enables one to take shots of yourself farther than your arm and hand can manage. There are even apps you can use to correct that physical limitation of arm’s length.

The ‘selfie’ is a telling indicator of the age we live in. We cry for and demand attention from others.

There are those who are falling in love with their own images, their own thoughts and their cyber persona thinking they have thousands of followers. Some even think they have become legends in their own minds. They believe the world revolves around them and that their personal happiness is paramount.

Following the lead of celebrities in the sports and entertainment world, we are being led to believe that life is all about I, Me and Myself at center stage. The songs and stories in popular media all amplify and sell the story of self-love as the highest form of love. It isn’t.

We have all the electronic tools for self-absorption at hand these days: camera phones, computers, tablets, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and other forms of social media and the unceasing, unrelenting advertising messages that prick and capitalize on our vanity. Advertisers know our hot buttons and the messages they cleverly craft and send are designed to keep pressing those buttons until

we succumb and buy what we are being sold.

Self-absorption is certainly not a new phenomenon. It is probably written in the human DNA from the beginning but is just more widespread because of the available technological platform to profess self-love.

Advanced, wealthy civilizations in history have fallen for the same trap. Maybe it’s time to dredge out those stories from mythology, told and retold from the distant past, so we can better understand how to deal with this interesting yet disconcerting trend and see how too much self-absorption driven by obsession can eventually lead to despondency and unhappiness.

The antidote to self-absorption, just like for many ills that plague our world today, is still the same as it was in the past — love and concern for others, interest in the well-being of someone or being involved in something bigger, higher, loftier than one’s self. The idea of sacrifice still remains the most concrete, visible form of love for another.

In an age of instant gratification, sacrifice has become passé, a thing of the past. And that, perhaps, is the reason for much of the world’s troubles these days.

In the end, happiness finally comes with the humble awareness and quiet appreciation of what was, what is and what is yet to come — right now, right here where we live our days and nights, just within the small circle consisting of ourselves and our loved ones, without demanding attention from others. Do remember that not everyone is rooting for you.

If we think we have become stars in the firmament because of our own self-absorption, here’s a story from Greek mythology to help bring us down a notch back to terra firma with a soft, gentle thud.

Long ago when enchanted creatures peopled the earth, there was a nymph called Echo. She probably rated a nine and a half on a 10 point-attractiveness scale, gorgeous, knowledgeable and perfect in every way except for one thing — she was a chatterbox without equal. She liked to hear

herself talk far too much and perhaps, with a tinge of hubris, would insist on having the last word in every conversation.

Juno, the queen of the Gods, was so irked by Echo’s habit that she meted out a punishment just for her. Echo will no longer be able to talk, except for one tiny concession — she will be able to say only the last word.

In the same forest where the nymphs lived, there was a young man named Narcissus who was so classically handsome and perfectly proportioned that all the nymphs oohed and ahhed and fell in love with him at first sight.

Picture Michelangelo’s marble sculpture of “David” in flesh and blood. If he were real person today, he would have made the cover of People’s Sexiest Man of the Year.”

His fans became legion. All that adulation got into his head. He became extremely vain. No nymph was good enough for him.

One day, Echo espied Narcissus while he was hunting with his peers and fell in love with him like a ton of bricks. She longed to tell him of her feelings, but in her afflicted state, she became painfully shy and simply contented herself silently watching him from a distance, shadowing Narcissus’ every move.

Narcissus, however, became aware of her shadowy presence and talked her out of her hiding place. Echo could only repeat the last words of what Narcissus was saying in their conversation so she may have came out sounding like a mindless idiot, vexing the vain Narcissus.

Besotted with love for the hunk however and believing Narcissus’ plea that she come out so they can be joined together, she finally overcame her crippling shyness and revealed herself. However, Narcissus felt she wasn’t good enough for him and snubbed her. He scorned her for her bold presumptuousness and repudiated her. He sent her away in the most cutting words swearing he would rather die than be with Echo.

(To be continued …) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Electronic addicts

From Page 5

wise and sober house rules are promulgated by both parents and siblings with regards to the use of electronic devices, including computer toys, electronic addiction could destroy the family and the individual members. Imagine the children not paying attention to their parents, or grandparents, or to each other, or even to their friends in school, who are likewise addicted. When electronics is not only a part of children’s life but the only life they have, they will face a future of health, social, and psychological issues. To the addicts, the real life becomes boring, the virtual world, exciting.

Are electronic devices that bad?

Of course not. These wonderful devices can enable adults, children, and toddlers to expand their vision, knowledge, skills, and help fulfill their dreams with a treasury of information and data, all available in split seconds, at their fingertips. The regular use of Alexa, Cortana, Siri, Google Assistant, or Google itself is not only convenient but efficient and a joy. They are enhancers, enablers, and facilitators, providing the user instant access to information, time, weather, music, restaurant or movie reservations, shopping, and

hundreds of other uses. Artificial intelligence, robots included, would someday be a regular household fixture for most, if not all, homes. The Internet today allows you to journey all around the galaxy, without having to leave your home or office, saving you gasoline and airfares. And they are very entertaining too.

When used for family game or entertainment, etc., electronics are good for bonding. The kitchen knife could be used to prepare meals for your loved ones, or used to hurt them or yourself. All really depends on how you intelligently and wisely you use the electronic devices you have. They are actually magical gems that even elevate the level of the happy hormones in us. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States.

For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com (Advertising Supplement

What Backstreet Boy Kevin...

From Page 4

(Could be in Macau. — RFL). We rooted for him.”

Like the four other Boys, Kevin (now 46 but doesn’t look his age) is now a father of two boys with his wife Kristin Kay Willits Richardson, a dancer, a choreographer, an actress and a photographer. (“It was Kristin who takes our pictures,” shared Jessica). “In the meantime,” added Kevin, “she’s just being a mom.”

Nick has one baby boy, AJ has two baby girls, Brian has one son and Howie has two boys.

“We haven’t stopped performing,” said Kevin. “We have a Las Vegas residency through 2019.

Next year, we are celebrating our 25th anniversary and we are now in the studio recording an album for it. We are also preparing for a world tour and we’re excited to be back in Manila by then.”

All these years, the Boys have stuck together even after Kevin quit in 2006, although he has rejoined the band for shows.

“We just did a New Year’s Eve show in Mexico. Even if we are always working together, we continue to see each other; we are always bonding. We go skiing… snow bonding in the mountains.

But every now and then, we do have individual time with our families.”

Asked what he thought that kept the Boys together after all these years, Kevin turned nostalgic.

“It has been too fast, very fast!

The struggle is what makes us strong, proving ourselves. Once you have proven yourselves, you have to keep proving yourselves. It’s not easy.

You have to challenge yourself, you have to take risks, you have to find a balance once you have a family and children.”

For sure, when the Backstreet Boys return to Manila for another show, they will regale their fans one more time with their well-loved hits, including two of Kevin’s personal favorites, “Siberia” and “Show Me The Meaning of Being Lonely”.

7

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JA N uA RY 26 , 20 1 8

OPM’s ‘golden era’ come alive on Valentine’s Day

Rico J. Puno, Imelda Papin, Rey Valera and Claire dela Fuente

Those who truly know original Pilipino Music history will agree that the 1970s remain to be the Golden era of Filipino Music. even as the Bee Gees, ABBA and the Queen lorded the international scene, the airwaves, records and stages this side of the world were dominated by such hits as “May Bukas Pa,” “Isang Linggong Pag-ibig,” “sayang” and “Maging sino Ka Man” to name a few. The faces and voices behind these timeless hits are, of course, the likes of Rico J. Puno, Imelda Papin, Rey Valera and Claire dela Fuente, who have given in to requests to come together anew and relive the unbeaten age of Filipino music.

Puno, Papin, Valera and dela Fuente are rightly considered oPM pioneers for establishing their own unique brands that

endeared them to music lovers, and effectively creating the genre as it is known today.

Known for his soulful sound and all-out performances with a punch of comedy, Rico J. Puno earned his title as the “Total entertainer.” Imelda Papin, known for her dynamic vocals and sentimental songs, was dubbed the “sentimental songstress.” As the country’s premier composer, Rey Valera took the title “Mr. hitmaker.” And Claire Dela Fuente, with her soothing voice, was given not one but two titles as the “Karen Carpenter of the Philippines” and “Asia’s sweetest Voice.” Their mark and songs stood the test of time for their genius making these artists true icons of oPM. “our music is ‘Timeless oPM’,” declared the ever-gregarious Rico J Puno at a press conference this week, effectively presenting the title of their Valentine’s show

on February 14 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater at Resorts World Manila.

“When I hear young girls singing ‘Isang Linggong Pag-Ibig’ when I go around the country even today, I am both humbled and inspired to keep singing our hits especially as I come to my 40th anniversary in the industry this year,” Papin meanwhile remarked.

As for Valera and dela Fuente, they are just as excited to go down memory lane, hoping they can bring back feelings of falling in love, first kisses, and the carefree fun that defined the ‘70s for their audience.

“Imagine a night of love reminiscing to all these timeless songs and more,” dela Fuente chimed in.

“We’re old,” Valera joked, “but if you love oPM, you won’t want to miss this show.” (ManilaTimes. net)

Asian Journal Launches the 2018 Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program Starting in the USA Dare to lead, dare to inspire, dare to be great.

As part of their continued mission to empower Overseas Filipinos and to promote tourism, investment, studying abroad, entrepreneurship, and retirement in the Philippines, the Asian Journal officially launches the 2018 Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program.

The Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program seeks highly competitive and ambitious Filipino women and men who aim to fuel the economic growth and development of the Philippines, inspire their local Filipino communities, and thus, transform the Filipino future. The program welcomes women and men in four different age brackets to apply—that no one is too young or too old to create a positive change in the world and pursue their dreams, goals, and ambitions.

Individuals selected to participate will receive prizes, invaluable professional networks and career opportunities in addition to a 14-Day all expense paid trip to the Philippines which will be filled with cultural immersion, exploration of tourist destinations, philanthropy and humanitarian work, artist, business, and leadership training, to investment insights.

“In its pure essence, the Love of Country Ambassadors Program is about the sustainability and continued progression of the Overseas Filipino Community, Balikbayans, and also supporting the present and future economic health of the Philippines. Our great nation relies heavily on the support of overseas Filipinos to provide a quality of life for their loved ones back home. They pay for real estate, health insurance, a car, education, food, a smartphone, internet—you name it.

But with immigration policies becoming stricter worldwide, the volatility of the global economy and geopolitics, coupled with an ageing population such as the baby-boomer generation preparing for retirement and a disconnected 2nd and 3rd generation of overseas Filipinos, we may see a profound slowdown in remittance,” said Roger Oriel, Publisher and Chief Executive Officer of Asian Journal Media Group.

“This not only supports loved ones, but drives consumption which supports many businesses and so there is a ripple effect. If consumer spending is down, think about all those jobs in the Philippines and the loved ones that those jobs support. So number 1, our program hopes to ignite, drive, and fuel foreign travel, investment, studying abroad, entrepreneurship, and retirement in the Philippines. And number 2, the opportunity to win a free trip to the Philippines is truly a gift to all Overseas Filipinos—our modern day heroes,” he continued.

The Concept of the Program In an interview with Raphael John Oriel, the program’s co-founder, current Editor-in-Chief of Balikbayan Magazine, and Chief Business Development Officer of the Asian Journal Media Group said, “For several years now, one of the recurring questions that I’ve encountered from both readers and clients was how can we connect Overseas Filipinos back to the country, especially those who have already assimilated to the country they moved to or were born and raised in—that 2nd and 3rdgeneration of Filipinos. I see on my Facebook that my Filipino friends and family go travel to other Asian Countries and I’m thinking, why?

How do I make them choose the Philippines instead? Why are they going to Thailand or Hawaii or wherever really instead of going to the Philippines? So for quite some time now, I’ve been studying what other countries do. So when I travelled to Israel for 3 weeks a few years ago to study and learn about their culture and tourism, I came across their program, Birthright Israel, which is an incredibly brilliant and spectacular program that truly connects and educates young Jewish people all around the World. It’s fascinating—those who participated in that program either visit Israel once a year, invested in the country, or actually moved back. But the most important thing was having an amazing sense of cultural pride after the program. After that trip, I returned to the Philippines and attended a beauty pageant—one of the more popular ones in the country. I spoke to

many of the contestants after the competition and came to learn that there is no life sustainability or career support after they participate in those programs. The women who participate in those things end up getting exploited— have no choice but to become escorts, lack college degrees so they can’t find jobs, or even end up as single mothers. It made me incredibly angry— so we designed a program to help resolve some of these pressing issues. To be clear, I’m certainly not saying that beauty pageants are evil because they’re not. I have good friends in that industry who are truly good people. And those who participate can be incredibly inspiring and can receive a livelihood after joining. But there’s a dark side to that light. Our program, despite having a coronation and gala night is not a beauty pageant—our program is a cultural pageant and educational tourism program.”

The Trip To The Philippines “We are greatly looking forward to welcoming our inaugural class’ arrival in the Philippines. We’re putting together a comprehensive, exhilarating, challenging, yet fun 14-day cultural and adventure tour of the Philippines. Our goal is to create life-changing experiences and have our delegates say that they don’t want to leave or can’t wait to come back.

And lastly, to encourage their friends, families, and colleagues to participate in our program. We are starting with the Filipino-American community this year, but by next year in 2019, we are looking to activate the program all throughout the World,” said Shannon Bridgman, Program Director of the 2018 Love of Country Global Ambassadors Program and former Miss Philippines Earth-Air 2016.

The Asian Journal Media Group, now approaching three decades in business, is a leading Filipino multimedia agency serving the global Filipino industry. Asian Journal publishes over 7 million weekly communaity newspapers annually in the USA from California, Nevada, New York, to New Jersey. In addition to this, the Asian Journal also publishes a quarterly mag-

The Founders of Pageantry Global, Inc. and 2nd batch of participants of the Love of Country Ambassadors in different categories (Mrs. Love of Country, Miss Youth Love of Country and Miss Love of Country Ambassadors met at the office of Asian Journal Publications, Inc in Glendale, California last weekend for orientation.

(L-R) Jacqueline Albay-Yenney, Jeddah Berame, Maria Arianna Conechado, Kimberly Pearl Marquez, Nathalie Barry, Gabbie Pangan, Trinity Foliente (CEO of Pageantry Global, Inc.), Cora Aragon (President of Pageantry Global, Inc.), Ammilyn Deita, Angel Soliven, Hannah Angelica Marte

(Cultural Pageant Coordinators) Ruby Pangan, Bettie Francisco and Priscilla Marte, LOC Ambassadors Participants Jacqueline Albay-Yenney, Jeddah Berame, Maria Arianna Conechado, Kimberly Pearl Marquez, Nathalie Barry, Gabbie Pangan, Trinity Foliente (CEO of Pageantry Global, Inc.), Cora Aragon (CEO and President of Pageantry Global, Inc.) respectively and other participants Ammilyn Deita, Angel Soliven, Hannah Angelica Marte, the Parents of the candidates are Lorna Conechado, Amelia Deita and Mayette Pacis

(L-R) Hannah Angelica Marte, Maria Ariana Conechado, Angel Pacis, Kimberly Pearl Marquez, Gabbie Pangan and Nathalie Barry

azine that is distributed in 60 countries and 101 cities throughout the World in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Tourism Promotions Board, and Department of Tourism of the Philippines.

To know more about Asian Jour-

nal and the Love Of Country Global Ambassadors Program, visitAsianJournalMediaGroup. com and LoveOfCountryAmbassadors.com. The deadline for applications is March 18, 2018. To learn more about applying visit LoveOfCountryAmbassadors.com/apply.

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY JANUARY 26, 2018

DARE TO INSPIRE. DARE TO LEAD.

Powered By

Transforming Filipino women and men of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds into global leaders and influencers who ignite, drive, and fuel the greatness of the Philippines.

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR CATEGORIES 01 & 02

03 & 04

05 & 06

07 & 08

MADAME / SENIOR LOVE OF COUNTRY GLOBAL AMBASSADORS Ages 50 and over

MRS. / SIR LOVE OF COUNTRY GLOBAL AMBASSADORS Ages 28-49

MR. / MISS LOVE OF COUNTRY GLOBAL AMBASSADORS Ages 18-27

MISS YOUTH / YOUTH LOVE OF COUNTRY GLOBAL AMBASSADORS Ages 13-17

DELEGATE REQUIREMENTS 01

02

03

04

05

06

LIFE ACCOMPLISHMENTS All applicants must have displayed or indicate strong willingness to pursue excellence in his/her community, field of study, or work.

EDUCATION

PERSONALITY

ETHNICITY

NOMINATION

Proof of educational attainment.

All applicants must display vibrance of personality and good moral character.

All applicants must be at least 1/4th Filipino to join.

All applicants must be recommended or nominated by at minimum 1 family member, friend, colleague, or professor.

PERSONAL STATEMENT All applicants are required to write a personal statement about her/his dreams and goals for the Philippines.

FOR INTERESTED DELEGATES FROM SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEVADA, AND ARIZONA, PLEASE CALL PAGEANTRY GLOBAL AND ASK FOR TRINI FOLIENTE AT (818) 455-2132 OR CORA SORIANO AT (213) 999-1993.

For more information, visit www.LOVEOFCOUNTRYAMBASSADORS.com or email Info@AsianJournalinc.com.