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Volume 17 - No. 5 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

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DATELINE

USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

CA Senate approves bill that hampers ICE from probing state buildings New bill prevents immigration officials from easily searching schools, courts and other state offices to detain undocumented immigrants IN California, immigration officials — including agents of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) — may soon need to provide a warrant if they want to search any state buildings for undocumented immigrants.

On Monday, January 29, the California Senate approved Senate Bill 183 by Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens), which requires federal immigration officials to present a valid warrant in order to perform any surveillance on property owned/leased and occupied by the state.

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Asian Americans among most likely to experience severe strokes, says AHA

ASIAN Americans were more likely than whites to experience a severe ischemic stroke, according to preliminary research presented on Thursday, January 25 at the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA)’s International Stroke Conference (ISC) 2018.

The study was the largest analysis of functional and clinical outcomes for Asian American acute ischemic stroke patients — an ischemic stroke occurs when an obstruction prevents blood supply to the brain.

F E BR U A RY 2 - 8 , 2 0 1 8

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

SOTU: Pres. Trump touches on immigration, foreign policies

by RAE

ANN VARONA AJPress

IN announcing what was called a “new American moment,” jobs, the economy, infrastructure, national security, trade, and immigration were all a part of President Donald Trump’s first State of the Union (SOTU) address

on Tuesday night, January 31.

In the crowd, House Democrats, invited advocates and survivors of sexual assault dressed up in black to send a statement about sexual misconduct and gender iniquity in #SOTUBlackout movement by Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL).

First Lady Melania Trump broke tradition by arriving with guests she invited.

Republican lawmakers broke out into chants of “USA! USA!”; and a few boos were elicited by Democrats.

Here are some highlights from Trump’s SOTU address: Immigration policy Amidst immigration talks on Capitol Hill, Trump reiterated his unexpected proposal that would give the nearly 1.8

million possible Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients a 10 to 12-year path to citizenship.

The Trump administration announced late last year the end of the Obama-era DACA program, giving Congress up until March of this year to make a saving move. Around 800,000

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US ‘cautiously optimistic’ on PH drug war

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

THE United States is “cautiously optimistic” that the human rights situation in the Philippines is steadily improving amid the ongoing implementation of the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign, an official said Tuesday, January 30.

According to James Walsh, a senior official from the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the number of supposed extrajudicial killings (EJKs) in the Philippines is shrinking.

“Many folks have been tracking the EJKs in the Philippines, and the trends are going down, so there is some encouragement that we are seeing in some of our human rights training working,” Walsh told reporters in a briefing.

He added, “I would describe the United States being cautiously optimistic when it

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TRUMP’S SOTU. President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union (SOTU) address on Tuesday, January 30. He outlined the record-setting accomplishments of his first year and cast an inspiring vision for building a safe, strong, and proud America.

White House photo by Shealah Craighead

Filipino solon charged for allegedly leading an anti-Trump protest Summit held in Manila last year.

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate was accused of inciting “atA FILIPINO lawmaker has been tack” against police officers durcharged for supposedly organiz- ing an anti-Trump rally held on ing a violent rally against United November 13, 2017 along Taft States President Donald Trump Avenue.

The complaint was filed by during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) PO1 Ariel Miranda Ortega, who

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

In this Nov. 7, 2017 file photo, Russell Salic, a Filipino doctor accused by U.S. authorities of plotting attacks in New York City, including concert venues and Times Square, arrives at a trial court for his extradition hearing.

Philstar.com photo

Marcos presents proof of Robredo’s cheating in 2016 elections Filipino linked to foiled NY terror alleged D S

plot faces murder, kidnap raps

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

A FILIPINO doctor accused of financing a thwarted jihadist plot in New York in 2016 has been indicted by the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) over a separate Islamic State (IS)-inspired kidnapping and murder case.

Maranao doctor Russell Salic has been charged for his alleged involvement in the abduction of six and the murder of two sawmill workers in April 2016 in Lanao del Sur, located in the southern part of the Philippines.

Salic, along with 53 other suspected Filipino extremists, is fac-

ing six counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention and two counts of murder before the Malabang, Lanao del Sur Regional Trial Court Branch 11.

The case against Salic stemmed from complaints filed by abducted sawmill workers Gabriel Permitis, Alfredo Canoos, Esperanza Janubas, Adonis Mendez, and Julito Janubas.

In their sworn statements, the complainants said they were abducted on April 4, 2016 by Maute extremists, a group that has previously pledged allegiance to the IS movement.

According to the complainants,

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by

ANA IOSON AJPress

FORMER Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, January 29 presented what he claimed as “evidence” to support his electoral protest against

Philippine Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo.

In a press conference, Marcos showed “highly questionable” copies of several ballot images from 12 towns in Camarines Sur and Negros Oriental,

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was among the police officers hurt during the demonstration.

Also named as co-respondents in the complaint were Vencer Crisostomo of Anakbayan, Renato Reyes of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), Teddy Casiño of Bayan Muna, and Einstein

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Rep. Carlos Zarate

Inquirer.net photo

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From the Front Page

SOTU: Pres. Trump touches on...

PAGE A1 t had initially applied for DACA but not everyone sent in their renewals — approximately 690,000 are said to be still enrolled as of September 2017.

The 1.8 million people that Trump said covered “three times more people than the previous administration” refers to those potentially eligible for his proposed citizenship path.

The solution package though would come with three additional conditions: funding for Trump’s border wall and accompanying security measures, ending the diversity visa lottery program, and putting limits on family-based visas.

“This vital reform is necessary not just for our economy, but for our security and for the future of America,” said Trump.

Under the family-based visa limits, U.S. citizens would be allowed to petition visas for minor children and spouses, but not for siblings, adult children, or par-

ents. According to the Migration Policy Institute, roughly 30 percent of Filipino immigrants use family sponsorship as a pathway to permanent residency.

Economy In touting economic moves from his first year in office, a big part of Trump’s SOTU was dedicated to the tax overhaul he signed at the end of last year, which he said included “the biggest tax cuts and reforms in American history”.

The tax rate for businesses was cut down to 21 percent, from 35 percent last December.

“Our massive tax cuts provide tremendous relief for the middle class and small business, to lower tax rates for hard-working Americans,” said Trump. “We nearly doubled the standard deduction for everyone.”

Trump added that since passing the tax bill, around three million workers got tax cut bonuses — “many of them thousands of dollars per worker.”

Following the December sign-

ing, a number companies like Walmart, Home Depot, American Airlines, and Wells Fargo announced bonuses, 401(k)s, and raises.

Three million workers did in fact benefit from the tax cuts according to Americans for Tax Reform, a group that supported the tax bill. But out of the 154 million workers, three million makes up only about two percent. Around 38 percent of workers were already bound to get a bonus of some form in 2017, regardless of tax legislation, according to the Labor Department.

Trump also reintroduced plans for putting money into railways, roads, bridges, and waterways as SPEWING ASHES. The Mayon Volcano continues to spew ash and smoke as sporadic eruptions continue to occur. President Rodrigo Duterte did an aerial survey on the Mayon Volcano after attending the situation briefing at the Camp Gen. Simeon Ola in Legazpi City on Monday, part of his infrastructure plan.

PNA photo by Toto Lozano “Tonight, I’m calling on Con- January 29. gress to produce a bill that generates at least $1.5 trillion for the “These efforts are anchored on new infrastructure investment respect for human rights, cognithat our country so desperately PAGE A1 t grams,” rule of law, and boosting zant of our obligation to protect needs,” said Trump Tuesday comes to the appropriate way for maritime security. our people’s right to life and to night. a drug campaign.”

At present, Walsh indicated live in peace and security. And u PAGE A4 Philippine President Rodrigo that there were signs of fewer we wish to reiterate that extraDuterte’s so-called drug war has extrajudicial killings and that the judicial killings never had — and received heavy backlash from U.S. is hopeful that the Philip- will never have — a place in the human rights organizations over pines will maintain the positive anti-illegal drug campaign,” he the alleged thousands of abuses trend. added. and extrajudicial killings, includ“I would describe the United The Palace official likewise ing cases involving unknown States as being cautiously op- noted that the Philippine Drug vigilantes. timistic in the trends when it Enforcement Agency (PDEA)The Duterte administration, comes to a good...appropriate led drug war has produced great however, has maintained that way for a drug campaign,” said results, “with dens and clandesthe deaths under the anti-illegal the INL official. tine laboratories dismantled and drugs campaign were not stateIn a statement on Wednesday, drugs seized with fewer drug-resanctioned and only involved January 31, Malacañang said that lated deaths.” suspects who violently resisted Walsh’s words “hint of a growing Roque went on to say, “We arrest. appreciation of the positive im- are confident that the re-launch The Philippine government pact of the administration’s anti- of the Philippine National Police also claimed that only about illegal drug campaign.”

(PNP) Operation Tokhang would 4,000 drug suspects were killed Malacañang, however, insisted have similar results. This early, during legitimate operations that the Duterte administration there have been hundreds of sursince the campaign’s launch in does not endorse abuses. renderers and no casualty on its 2016, and that the about 12,000 “We wish to reiterate that ex- first day.” deaths cited by human rights trajudicial killings never had — Earlier this week, the PNP organizations and critics were and will never have — a place in resumed its resumed its Oplan bloated. the anti-illegal drug campaign,” Tokhang under new rules and According to Walsh, the U.S. Palace Spokesperson Harry guidelines that requires stricter previously “reduced our support Roque stressed. observation of human rights. to the [Philippine] police because Roque also cited that members Oplan Tokhang, which means of some of the human rights con- of the ASEAN (Association of “knock and plead,” is an anti-illecerns.”

Southeast Asian Nations), as well gal drugs initiative in the country Still, he added that Washing- as China and Japan, have “fully wherein authorities knock on the ton continues to provide support supported our efforts to contain doors of suspected drug users or Manila in other areas such as the manufacture and prolifera- pushers and ask them to surren“drug demand reduction pro- tion of illegal drugs.” der. n

US ‘cautiously optimistic’...

Marcos presents proof of Robredo’s alleged...

PAGE A1 t which supposedly indicate fraud during the 2016 polls.

Among the electoral documents presented by Marcos’ camp include a ballot image from San Nicolas, Iriga City in Camarines Sur. In the document, the oval corresponding to the slots for Robredo and Senator Antonio Trillanes IV were both shaded, but only Robredo’s was enclosed with a square among other vice presidential candidates.

Marcos questioned why the vote-counting machine (VCM) did not void the vote because of multiple marks.

“Some of the ballots, even if three names for vice president were shaded, as long as there was a ‘square’ beside the name of Mrs. Robredo, the vote will be counted in her favor,” Marcos’ spokesman Atty. Vic Rodriguez said.

He continued, “The question now is what is the significance of that box? They always say that we should shade the oval shaped spot [to indicate our choice candidate]. Nothing was mentioned about a square.”

Marcos also contested a ballot image which showed that the oval to his name was the only shaded slot for vice presidency but the VCM counted it as an un-

Former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. shows the press evidence that votes for him were not counted in two of three pilot provinces for the recount he sought as part of his electoral protest against Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

dervote.

The former senator asked, “Why did the votes for me became undervotes and were not counted? Why were the spoiled ballots counted for Robredo?

Why did ballots with the same ballot numbers register different results?”

For Marcos, who lost to Robredo by only more than 260,000, such ballots images just prove how her camp “had manipulated the voting and trampled upon the true will of the people on their choice for vice president.”

He further alleged that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and Smartmatic conspired with Robredo to cheat in the 2016 elections.

Robredo’s camp, for its part,

labeled Marcos’ latest accusations as “highly ridiculous if not outright frivolous.”

“Knowing the propensity of election losers in our country in filing all sorts of complaints in open display of unwillingness to accept defeat, they could have used such alleged questionable feature of the ballots in filing their election protest,” said Romulo Macalintal, Robredo’s lawyer.

Macalintal added, “The best evidence to prove if ‘hundreds upon hundreds’ of ballots contained the questionable features raised by Marcos are the copies in the custody of the PET (Presidential Electoral Tribunal) and not the self-serving copies of Marcos.” n

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Treating domestic violence as a medical problem

A

by AnnA

GormAn Kaiser Health News

FANNy Ortiz, a mother of five who lives just east of downtown Los Angeles, spent nearly a decade married to a man who controlled her and frequently threatened her. Then, she said, his abuse escalated. “He would physically hit me in the face, throw me on the wall,” she recalled.

Ortiz, 43, eventually left the marriage, taking her children with her. A few years later, she learned that the East Los Angeles Women’s Center offered domestic violence services at the Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, Fanny Ortiz (right), who left an abusive marriage after nearly a decade, meets weekly with near her home. Now she goes to therapist Brittany Martinez at the East Los Angeles Women’s Center. The office is located on the hospital campus for weekly the campus of the Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center.

Photos by Anna Gorman/Kaiser Health News therapy sessions, which she said have helped stop her suicidal thoughts.

“I was afraid to talk,” Ortiz said.

“Now I am more open to talk about things that I was holding in.”

Nearly 1 in 4 women have experienced serious physical violence at the hands of a partner.

They often end up in the emergency room or the doctor’s office.

But they don’t typically volunteer the reason for their injuries, and doctors don’t always ask about abuse in the home. That failure of communication means the patients may miss out on the help they need. yet a growing number of health providers and anti-abuse agencies The East Los Angeles Women’s Center is opening a domestic violence shelter on the Los Angeles in California and around the counCounty-USC Medical Center campus. The proximity makes it easier for doctors to ask patients try are collaborating to identify about violence, said Rebeca Melendez, director of wellness at the center’s hospital office.

“They don’t need to know all the answers,” she says. “They just need to call us.”

CA Senate approves bill...

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The facilities include public schools (including any of the California Community College campuses) and state courts to name a few.

The Trump administration’s iron fist on immigration and undocumented criminals provided the main motivation for Lara — who has penned several immigrant rights bills in the past year — to author the bill. SB 183 was designed to maintain ease within immigrant communities, arguing that ICE agents subvert the state’s services and resources California, a designated sanctuary state, has previously objected to certain tactics used by ICE, whose threats have established a mounting fear among immigrants all over the state.

“Federal immigration officials are creating a climate of fear that undermines the fundamental institutions of California’s democracy,” Lara said in a statement.

“Senate Bill 183 guarantees a safe environment so students can attend classes, parents can pick

up their children from school, and people can report crimes or go to court without the terror of being targeted by federal agents based on their immigration status.”

The hope, Lara suggests, is that immigrants can still utilize many of the state’s services and resources without fear of encountering federal agents.

“Trust in government is essential to the security of all Californians, and I refuse to let ICE’s campaign of intimidation erase the efforts of state and local government to bring immigrants and their families out of the shadows,” Lara added.

The Senate approved SB 183 in the middle of the hot debate over immigration including the fate of DREAMers after the termination of DACA, the border wall and completely reforming the ways in which immigrants are allowed to apply for citizenship.

SB 183 is now on its way to the state Assembly. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

Clinical and functional outcomes from than 1.77 million patients (3.6 percent Asian American, 96.4 percent white) were reviewed from 2,171 hospitals that participated in an AHA/ASA in-hospital program called “Get With the Guidelines-Stroke” from 2004 to 2016.

Photo courtesy of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

Asian Americans among most likely...

PAGE A1 t Clinical and functional outcomes from than 1.77 million patients (3.6 percent Asian American, 96.4 percent white) were reviewed from 2,171 hospitals that participated in an AHA/ASA in-hospital program called “Get With the Guidelines-Stroke” from 2004 to 2016.

“Asian Americans may have a distinctive pathophysiologic profile of ischemic stroke than whites,” said Sarah Song, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H. She is the study author and assistant professor of cerebrovascular disease at Rush University Medical Center’s Department of Neurology in Chicago, Illinois.

Added Song, “Regardless, this study highlights the need for more focused research, improved stroke prevention and possibly different treatment strategies for Asian Americans.”

The study found that compared to whites, Asian Americans were often associated with: poorer functional recovery; receiving the clot-busting drug tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) less frequently, which can improve the chances of recovering from a stroke; and more serious and bleeding complications with tPA, despite receiving it quickly.

A positive finding from the research was that stroke care for both white and Asian Americans have seen some improvement over time.

“Looking from 2004 to 2016, our study shows that overall, patients with acute ischemic stroke

are recovering more, and they are receiving more IV tPA, with less complications and better poststroke care. This likely has to do with an overall improvement in stroke quality and highly effective stroke systems of care. However, Asian Americans and whites had nuanced differences over time; for example, only whites had a decrease in trend in stroke severity, while Asian Americans had a greater increase in timely IV tPA administration,” said Song.

But not much attention has been given to stroke and stroke care among Asian American subgroups which is something researchers are acknowledging as a limitation.

“There’s different groups from people from China, from Japan, from Korea, from Vietnam, and other countries, so that’s one piece of the puzzle that we don’t know yet,” said ASA spokesperson, Philip B. Gorelick, M.D., MPH. “Even among Asian Americans, the various minority populations differ in so many ways. Vietnamese people are not the same as Korean, who are not the same as Japanese or South Asian groups. Aside from differences in language, differences in stroke risk factors, diet and lifestyle, and other cultural factors, make compiling all Asian-American groups into single group problematic,” said Song.

But the study was a good first step, she added. “This information gives us the urgency and the

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COSMIC DISPLAY. A commercial plane passes in front of a #SuperBlueBloodMoon as seen from Muntinlupa on Wednesday, January 31. It is the first time in 35 years a blue moon has synced up with a supermoon and a total lunar eclipse. Hawaii and Alaska have the best seats, along with the Canadian Yukon, Australia and Asia. The western U.S. should have good viewing, too, along with Russia. The U.S. East Coast, Europe and most of South America and Africa are out of luck for the eclipse. The second full moon in a calendar month is a blue moon. This one also happens to be an especially close and bright moon, or supermoon. Add a total eclipse, known as a blood moon for its red tint, and it’s a lunar showstopper.

Philstar.com photo by Michael Varcas

Filipino solon charged...

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Recedes of Student Christian Movement (SCM).

“Sila po ang nag-uutos at naguudyok sa mga raliyista na lusubin ang police line (They were the ones who urged rallyists to attack the police line),” Ortega claimed.

He also remarked that the protesters are inciting violence but he and fellow members of the ASEAN crowd dispersal management team exercised maximum tolerance. u PAGE A4 “Dahil sa ginawang paglusob

ng mga raliyista sa amin, at ginawa nilang pamamalo, ako ay nagtamo ng sugat sa braso, na may hiwa at pasa, at nawalan ng malay (Because of the protesters’ attacks, I got cuts and bruises in the arms, and I also lost consciousness),” Ortega said.

Zarate, for his part, dismissed the charges against him as “nothing but a calibrated harassment against members of the Left.”

“Just to ensure that I would not be able to attend and question these baseless and trumped-up

cases, the subpoena was served today when the hearing was held,” Zarate said in a statement on Tuesday, January 30.

Zarate was scheduled to face the prosecutor on Monday, January 29, but the subpoena was only served the day after.

The lawmaker also claimed that there were more protesters injured than the cops during the confrontation.

Zarate went on to say, “Together with my co-accused, I will face these cases knowing that we did nothing wrong; we’re just exercising our freedom of expression and right to assembly.” n

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Filipino linked to foiled NY terror...

PAGE A1 t two other hostages—Jaymark Kapampangan and Salvador Hanubos—were beheaded six days later while the rest of them were eventually freed.

While in captivity, the complainants testified that they saw Salic cleaning and guarding firearms.

But Salic, in his counter-affidavit, denied their allegations, saying that “in his entire life, he never stepped foot in Butig, Lanao del Sur, neither has he

mony of victims/testimony of victims/complainants... describing in sufficient detail his active cleaned any firearm.”

The doctor further claimed participation in the commission that he was on duty as a resident of the crimes charged,” the DOJ physician at the Northern Min- added.

Salic is also facing separate danao Medical Center (NMMC) in Cagayan de Oro City on April criminal charges filed by the 4, 2016, and that he attended an United States justice department orthopedic convention in Puerto over his alleged involvement in a plan to carry out attacks in the Princesa, Palawan on April 5.

Salic said he returned to name of IS group in May 2016.

The Filipino doctor was acNMMC on April 10.

The DOJ, however, said that cused of sending money to the complainants have no reason fund foiled attacks targeting New York’s subway and Times to fabricate their testimonies. “[Salic’s] negative assertion Square. U.S. authorities are curcannot prevail over the testi- rently seeking his extradition. n

SOTU: Pres. Trump touches on...

PAGE A2 t He added, “every federal dollar should be leveraged by partnering with State and local governments and, where appropriate, tapping into private sector investment — to permanently fix the infrastructure deficit.”

Of the $1.5 trillion, $200 billion would come from direct federal investment which leaves the rest to come from state, local, and private investment.

Trump did not provide much other details on the bill, but improving infrastructure has been a concern for people from both parties.

The American Society of Civil engineers gave an overall grade of a D-plus for U.S. infrastructure. On Tuesday, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association released a report that summed over 54,000 structurally deficient bridges in the U.S. Opioid crisis Approximately 64,000 Americans died in 2016 as a result of drug overdoses, emphasized Trump. Members of Congress

highlighted the crisis by donning purple ribbons Tuesday evening.

“One hundred seventy-four deaths per day. Seven per hour,” he added. “We must get tougher on drug dealers and pushers if we are going to succeed in stopping this scourge.”

Preliminary figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 2017’s numbers may be even worse.

Trump declared a public health emergency in October in regards to the opioid epidemic, but not much else in regards to upcoming efforts was addressed Tuesday.

Congress has yet to receive a funding request, and the Office of National Drug Policy remains without a head.

Attorney general Jeff Sessions has though led the Justice Department in getting tough with drug offenses.

Foreign policy North Korea threats, ISIS, and keeping guantánamo Bay open were key in Trump’s talks on foreign policy.

“When necessary, we must be

able to detain and question. But we must be clear — terrorists are not merely criminals. They are unlawful enemy combatants and when captured overseas, they should be treated like the terrorists they are,” said Trump.

“In the past, we have foolishly released hundreds of dangerous terrorists only to meet them again on the battlefield — including the ISIS leader, al-Baghdadi,” he added.

In addressing North Korea as being a nuclear threat, Trump said that North Korea’s “reckless pursuit of nuclear missiles could very soon threaten our homeland.”

He added, “We are waging a campaign of maximum pressure to prevent that from happening.”

The parents of Otto Warmbier, a university student who was detained in North Korea before being sent back to the U.S. where he later died from injuries, were present. So was Ji Sung-Ho, a North Korean who escaped the country on crutches. n

Treating domestic violence...

PAGE A3 t

victims and get them help. More doctors now screen their patients for signs of abuse and more agencies place victims’ advocates inside health centers. education and counseling for people experiencing violence is also more widely available in clinics and hospitals.

About four years ago, the east Los Angeles Women’s Center opened offices on the campus of L.A. County-USC, a busy public hospital. Since then, center staff members have trained more than 2,500 doctors, nurses, social workers and others to identify victims of domestic violence. They also respond quickly to calls from the medical center’s emergency room, inpatient hospital and outpatient facilities to help patients in crisis.

Today, the women’s center has embarked on an innovative approach: In February, it plans to open a short-term shelter for abuse victims on the medical center grounds. The 10-bed shelter fills a serious need, said Deirdre Anglin, an emergency room physician at L.A. County-USC. “We sometimes have patients in the emergency department who don’t have a place to go, and in the evenings and nights all the shelters in L.A. will be filled,” Anglin said.

Victims of abuse can suffer long-term health problems, including chronic pain, frequent headaches, depression, diabetes and asthma. And they have higher health costs than people who have not experienced abuse. So “it makes complete sense to have the health care providers acting as allies and partners in treating domestic violence,” said Peter Long, CeO of the Blue Shield of California Foundation. (The foundation provides support for Kaiser Health News coverage in California.)

The foundation has funded 19 partnerships between health cen-

ters and domestic violence agencies around the state, including the L.A. County-USC office of the east Los Angeles Women’s Center.

Similar partnerships operate in Illinois, Maryland and other states.

Last year, the east Los Angeles Women’s Center served 600 victims of domestic violence at the L.A. County-USC hospital campus. Nearly one-third were homeless or couldn’t go back home for safety reasons.

Advocates say that hospitals and clinics are ideal settings to respond to the needs of abused women.

In the San gabriel Valley, the YWCA sponsors domestic violence support groups at a community clinic, while the clinic offers health education for survivors of abuse at the YWCA. In Sacramento, a Native American health center works closely with a domestic violence group a few blocks away.

Doctors have an “unprecedented opportunity to promote prevention and to respond because they are seeing patients that may not ever reach out to a domestic violence agency or police for help,” said Lisa James, director of health for Futures Without Violence, which runs a national resource center dedicated to improving the response of medical professionals to domestic violence. “They can provide this critical lifesaving intervention.”

The proximity of the east Los Angeles Women’s Center to the hospital and clinic buildings on the L.A. County-USC campus makes it easier for doctors to ask their patients about violence, said Rebeca Melendez, director of programs for the center’s office at the medical center. The medical providers know where to turn for guidance – and that the help is nearby.

“They don’t need to know all the answers,” she said. “They just

need to call us.”

This growing collaboration between the medical profession and anti-abuse agencies is driven in part by the Affordable Care Act, which requires that health plans cover domestic violence screening and counseling.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends doctors routinely question women about violence in the home and refer them to services if needed. The task force concluded in 2013 that intervention could reduce violence and abuse as well as mental and physical health problems.

Organizations such as the American Congress of Obstetricians and gynecologists and the American Medical Association also recommend routine screening and counseling for domestic violence.

In the past, patients would go to health centers with such problems, but providers did not feel comfortable asking questions about abuse at home, said Long, of the Blue Shield of California Foundation.

“They didn’t feel they had the time and they didn’t feel they had the resources to do something about it,” he said. Nor did they always have a place to send patients who were abuse victims.

Treating patients who are in abusive relationships is “very challenging,” said Anglin, the eR physician. “There is no pill to give.” But asking about violence needs to be part of a physician’s job, she said.

“Part of what we need to do is try to identify patients who may be in a dangerous situation … so we are not just sending these patients back to the same situation they were in only to come back worse off another time.”

This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation. n

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NATIONAL BIBLE DAY. Senator Joel Villanueva joined Sen. Manny Pacquiao at the launch of the “National Bible Day” today at Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City. Villanueva and Pacquiao authored Senate Bill No. 1270 declaring the last Monday of January a regular holiday to observe the “National Bible Day” and call all Christians to unite and celebrate the Holy Bible as the cradle of the Christian faith. Previously, President Rodrigo Duterte declared January of every year as “National Bible Month” and every last week of January as “National Bible Week” by virtue of Proclamation No. 124.

Senate photo

Romero Duno lives up to Golden Boy’s expectations

by Ed dE la

VEga, ddS –PhilBoxing.com

INgLeWOOD, CA — It’s getting more and more apparent that golden Boy’s Roberto garcia made a fantastic gamble with Sanman Promotions’ rising star Romero Duno.

Duno was an unknown fighter outside of the reaches of Sanman Promotions, a young budding promotional company led by two young promoters, JC Manangquil and Dexter Tan of general Santos City, down south in Mindanao.

But he has a respectable record and was a right match for any lightweight whose career is being nurtured by any manager and promoter.

Duno was 12-1-0, 7KO when golden Boy came calling looking for a decent fighter that is good but an easy target for a budding lightweight they were grooming for a championship fight in a year or two. His name is Christian “Chimpa” gonzales. The young gonzales who grew up in the greater Los Angeles area was then undefeated and had knocked out 14 of his 16 opponents.

Sanman Promotions offered golden Boy their brightest lightweight prospect, Romero Duno to challenge gonzales with the winner getting the WBC Youth Intercontinental Belt. golden Boy readily accepted perhaps thinking that gonzalez will have no problem taking care of Duno. Besides, gonzalez will have his hometown crowd at his favorite venue, the famed old Belasco Theater in downtown LA. But alas, it was not the night for gonzalez!

Duno who was trained in LA by Rodel Mayol and Stanley godinez was fighting for the first time in California. The crowd at the Belasco was loud and rowdy, waving the Mexican flag and declaring gonzalez their champion.

Then the fight started with gonzalez trying to impose his size. He was coming straight to Duno with

Filipino lightweight Romero Duno (16-1, 14 KOs) made quick work of Yardely Armenta (21-10, 12 KOs) in scoring a first round knockout. Duno was aggressive from the start attacking Armenta as a right hand did it dropping Armenta as referee Jerry Cantu reached a ten count at 1:07 of the first.

Photos by Jhay Otamias

his heavy artillery but for some reason forgot to bring his famed jab with him to set up his punches. He just wanted to knock Duno out bright and early. During a torrid exchanged he dropped his left hand and Duno quickly threw a short right counter punch dropping gonzalez to the surprise of the pro-gonzales TV commentators and the hometown crowd. gonzales beat the count but his legs were rubbery and he sagged towards the ropes. Lucky for him, the bell save him from being KO’d early. When round two started, gonzalez tried his best to get Duno but the Duno stayed away

Asian Americans among most likely...

PAGE A3 t credibility to do more research in Asian Americans, who have historically been understudies in the stroke and cardiovascular literature.”

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) — a risk factor for stroke — has been found to be a leading cause of death among Filipino Americans, according to what few studies have been made.

An AHA advisory on cardiovascular disease from 2010 cited data from the National Health Interview Survey that reported hypertension rates being higher

among Filipinos than in other Asian American subgroups.

Prevention The AHA and ASA recommend seven simple steps to avoiding stroke, and other brain health-related conditions such as dementia or memory loss.

The steps collectively labeled “Life’s Simple 7” are the same for maintaining cardiovascular health and are to: stop smoking, get active, eat better, lose weight, reduce blood sugar, reduce blood pressure, and control cholesterol.

Unfortunately, researchers revealed at the ISC that less

and waited for another opportunity. When that came he dropped gonzales again. gonzales stood up but later collapsed in his corner!

Seeing the potentials of Romero Duno, Roberto garcia of golden Boy Promotions did not hesitate and readily signed up Duno to a promotional contract.

Following the gonzales victory, Duno scored three more wins. He knocked out Jason Tinampay at a fight card in general Santos City in June of 2017 and won via a UD over a highly regarded Juan Pablo Sanchez of Mexico at the Forum in Inglewood last September. n than one in 100 stroke survivors are meeting the recommended goals. Out of a nationally representative sample of 67,514 U.S. adults, 1,597 had prior strokes and had data for all seven measures. Furthermore, fewer than one in five stroke survivors met at least four of the measures during the study period, according to researchers.

“These measures have one unique thing in common: any person can make these changes, the steps are not expensive to take and even modest improvements to your health will make a big difference,” says AHA. (Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 2-8, 2018

DATELINE PHILIPPINES

A5

PNP chief: Bloodless drug war ‘impossible’

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

AS the Philippine National Police (PNP) resumed its controversial “Oplan Tokhang” on Monday, January 29, the country’s top cop admitted that it is “impossible” to conduct a completely bloodless anti-illegal drugs campaign.

But while saying that he cannot guarantee zero casualties, PNP Chief Director Gen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa vowed that the police will do everything to make the drug war “less bloody.”

“We are just giving you the assurance that what we’re going to make the anti-drug campaign less bloody because we are not dealing a person in his right mind,” Dela Rosa said in Filipino during a press briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

The PNP chief even remarked that he’s willing to give up his post to anyone who can handle drug war operations without anyone getting killed.

Dela Rosa challenged, “Give me someone who can do it, a commander who can do it, and

I’m willing to give up my post if you can tell me that there’s a person who can be successful in conducting anti-drug operations without casualties.”

“That’s impossible,” he stressed.

This week, the PNP resumed its controversial Oplan Tokhang under new rules and guidelines that require stricter observation of human rights.

On the first day of the re-implementation, the PNP said it has conducted 36 separate anti-drug operations across the country and was able to arrest 52 alleged drug offenders with no casualties. More than 563 drug personalities also surrendered.

Oplan Tokhang, which means “knock and plead,” is an anti-illegal drugs initiative in the country wherein authorities knock on the doors of suspected drug users or pushers and ask them to surrender.

Under the new supplemental operational guidelines, Tokhang operations must be led by a police commissioned officer and be conducted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Implementers

are also required to be in proper PNP uniform.

The use of body cameras and other similar gadgets during operations, however, was only encouraged and not required.

“I express optimism that this time, police interdiction operations against illegal drugs will be carried out with greater efficiency, and with less violent confrontations between law enforcers and offenders through better equipment to ensure the personal safety of our personnel, such as body armor, body camera, communications and fire suppression, complemented by skills training and enhanced capacity,” Dela Rosa said.

But despite the new supplemental operational guidelines for Oplan Tokhang, the PNP chief noted that the flow of antidrug operations still depends on the reactions of drug personalities.

He went on to say, “It would be better if we can only take over the minds of the drug personalities and tell them not to be violent, not to fight back, so PAGE A7

PUSH FOR BBL CONTINUES. Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, chair of the Senate Subcommittee on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), exchanges ideas with Commissioner Firdausi Ismail Abbas of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission before the start of the latest Senate hearing on the measure on Tuesday, January 30. The proposed BBL, which would establish the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to replace the existing Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), is currently pending in both houses of Congress.

Senate photo by Cesar Tomambo

Malacañang wishes Rappler ‘good luck’ CBCP questions Cha-cha, federalism

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

“GOOD luck to them.”

This was Malacañang’s short message to online news site Rappler on its efforts to invalidate the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)’s revocation of its license.

Rappler on Monday, January 29, filed a petition before the Court of Appeals (CA) seeking to reverse an earlier SEC ruling that voided the news organization’s incorporation papers for allegedly violating the Constitutional restrictions on foreign ownership.

The SEC en banc on January 11 ruled that Rappler Inc. and Rappler Holdings Corp. (RHC) made violations when it allowed Omidyar Network, one of the Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDR) holders of Rappler, to exercise control over the news outfit.

“Good luck to them. After all, the noise that they’ve created, they are certainly hoping that they could influence the Court of

Palace Communications officials Martin Andanar (upper left) and Lorraine Badoy (lower left) and Rappler Chief Maria Ressa (right) appear before the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media on Tuesday, January 30. Ressa claimed the State had enabled an ‘information ecosystem’ spreading ‘fake news.’

ManilaTimes.net photos by Bob dunno

Appeals,” Palace Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

In its petition, Rappler claimed that the SEC erred in its interpretation of the Omidyar PDR. “The clause does not give Omidyar the power to decide when and how the articles of incorporation or by-laws of Rap-

pler, or any other corporate matter, are to be made. Therefore, Omidyar has no control over the actions of RHC, and also Rappler,” it said.

Rappler also pointed out that the SEC has no findings that Omidyar actually exercised control over the company, making

the ruling baseless.

“Thus, Rappler and RHC cannot be punished, in any way for a violation that never occured,” it stressed.

Rappler further argued that it cannot be held liable for violating the law banning foreign ownerships on mass media because it “is not engaged in the business of mass media.”

The news outfit noted that the Article XVI, Section 11 (1) of the 1987 Constitution only refers “mass media” to print and broadcast media, while Rappler is fully internet-based.

“The activities of Rappler are more akin to the way Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and blogs operate,” Rappler said, adding that it is the country’s first “all-digital news organization.”

In its petition, Rappler also claimed that SEC did not follow due process when it issued the revocation in the absence of a formal charge, depriving the news organization of opportunities to defend itself.

PAGE A7

THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Monday questioned moves to overhaul the 1987 Constitution to shift to a federal system of government, saying such efforts should be participative and not captured by narrow political interests.

The prelates released “pastoral guidelines” on Charter change as they gathered for their bi-annual plenary assembly in Cebu, questioning lawmakers’ plan to amend the Constitution themselves through a Constituent Assembly.

“Participation is at the heart of democracy. Clearly, a move for Charter change that involves transforming the Congress into a Constituent Assembly is bound to be deficient of widespread peoples’ participation, discussion, and consultation. It would be totally rash for members of Congress to presume the reasoned approval of their constituents on

so grave an issue as the move to overhaul the nation’s Charter,” the CBCP said.

Full implementation The bishops said full implementation of the Charter was needed, instead of a revision.

“As servant leaders, we have listened to many others who believe that the solution to these problems is not a revision of the Constitution, but a full implementation of the 1987 Constitution (e.g., on political dynasties & on freedom of information), and a revision of the Local Government Code, originally designed to devolve power from central authority, following the moral principle of subsidiarity,” the CBCP said.

“We have also heard the views of those who believe that the solution we seek is ultimately the transformation of our political culture, the eradication of a political mindset of personalities, payoffs, and patronage – a culture PAGE A7

A6

FEBRUARY 2-8, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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OPINION

FEATURES

HIV epidemic HERE’S another reason to take precautions against the AIDS-causing human immunodeficiency virus: health experts warn that a drugresistant HIV strain is on the rise.

Mutation to resist drugs is a common characteristic of viruses and bacteria, so the emergence of the new HIV strain is not unexpected. This makes safe sex and other precautionary measures all the more important to prevent the spread of HIV. Six months ago the United Nations’ health ministry reported that for the past six years, the Philippines has registered the fastest HIV/AIDS infection rate in the AsiaPacific, with 10,111 new HIV cases recorded in 2017 alone.

There are no signs of a let-up, and the toll keeps growing. From January to November last year, AIDS claimed 428 lives in the Philippines.

Since January 1984 when the Department of Health began keeping a registry of the affliction, 49,733 HIV cases have been recorded in the Philippines, with 4,942 cases developing into fullblown Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

and 2,397 deaths. In recent years, the fastest rate of infection has been recorded among men having sex with men, with most of the patients not yet in their 30s.

Health experts have always stressed that HIV can be prevented through the use of condoms and other safe sex practices as well as regular screening for the sexually active. Despite the development of potent drug cocktails against the virus, there is still no guaranteed cure for AIDS. But early diagnosis and treatment can prolong lives.

Other countries such as Thailand have shown that it is possible to reverse a rising tide of HIV cases. Many AIDS victims died at the prime of their lives. With heightened efforts, this tragedy can be eased. Health experts have warned that the Philippines’ HIV/AIDS problem has reached epidemic proportions. The country must move quickly to prevent more deaths. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

US-PH cooperation goes beyond military alliance EARLIER this week, I Babe’s was invited as a special guest Eye at a reception View hosted by the US National Guard Bureau (NGB) chief, BABES ROMUALDEZ General Joseph Lengyel, and his charming wife Sally. The reception at Fort Lesley J. McNair was correspondingly held to celebrate the partnership between the Philippines, Hawaii and Guam via the “State Partnership Program” (SPP) spearheaded by the US Department of State and Department of Defense, and with us were Senator Mazie Hirono of Hawaii and the State Department’s Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) for Southeast Asia W. Patrick Murphy.

As chief of the NGB and member of the joint chiefs of staff, General Lengyel also serves as military advisor to President Donald Trump, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis and the National Security Council. I had a very engaging conversation with the general who told me that he will be traveling to the Philippines on the first week of February for meetings with officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Department

From the Stands DOMINI M. TORREVILLAS PERSIA, as Iran was known before 1935, was one of the greatest empires of the ancient world, dating back to around 7,000 B.C. Iran became an Islamic Republic in 1979, following the Iranian Revolution which overthrew the monarchy and clerics assumed political control. During the next three days, heads of 100 principal political parties from 39 countries in the Asian region are meeting in Iran’s capital, Tehran, to share their views on the topic “Different Nations, a Shared Destiny” and on regional development and regional security at the ICAPP Special Conference on the Silk Road. The conference is hosted by the Islamic Motalefeh Party with the support of the Iranian government.

Former House Speaker Jose de Venecia is speaking on the topic of a shared destiny among nations, as he is a leader in getting political parties together, he being founding chairman of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), co-founder of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA), and chairman of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP). His latest title is as special envoy of the Philippine president to the Asia-Pacific

of Defense to discuss the SPP involving a wide range of issues that include humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR), as well as capacity building and security cooperation.

The last time the general visited the Philippines was more than 30 years ago and so he is really looking forward to his upcoming trip which we anticipate to be very productive.

Filipinos are familiar with the National Guard and know it as a reserve military force whose members hold fulltime civilian jobs while serving part time as airmen or soldiers.

People know that the National Guard (from 50 states plus the U.S. territories of Guam, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico as well as the District of Columbia for a total of 54 separate units) can be called upon during times of crisis or natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods and earthquakes.

However, not many Filipinos know about the State Partnership Program sponsored by the US Department of Defense with guidance from the foreign policy goals set by the State Department, and managed and administered by the National Guard Bureau that also provides the personnel.

The SPP came about in 1993 at

the Baltic region in Europe (after the collapse of the former Soviet Union) when the US European Command decided to set up the “Joint Component Contact Team Program” made up of reserve component personnel as they were deemed to have a less aggressive posture and thus, would encourage security cooperation. A subsequent proposal by the National Guard Bureau to pair up NG units with Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania (nations that were formerly part of the USSR or the Soviet Union) gave birth to the SPP, which soon became a key security cooperation tool by the United States. Through the SPP, cooperation across all levels of international civil-military affairs are facilitated, and people-to-people ties at the state level are also enhanced and encouraged.

Simply put, the SPP pairs up specific National Guard units with a particular country for nation building and other activities aimed at strengthening linkages and security partnerships. In 2001, the SPP was established in the Philippines with the Guam and Hawaii National Guard units as partners. Underscoring the deep relations between our country and the United States is the fact that the SPP with the Philippines is the first and therefore the oldest in the

Asia Pacific region.

Over the years, the Philippines has been one of the most active as far as the SPP is concerned. In September last year, air defense experts from the Hawaii Air National Guard (HIANG) shared air defense skill – the fifth time in a row – to members of the Philippine Air Force (PAF), with the level of engagement and interaction heightened as the focus has expanded to include training, checklists, procedures, and aerospace medicine (also known as flight or aviation medicine). Aside from discussions and Q & A sessions, these exchanges involve tours and inspections on air defense system components, with the focus going from the tactical to the operational and strategic.

One of the most tangible aspects of the SPP was demonstrated in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda when airmen and soldiers from the Hawaii National Guard and the Guam National Guard worked with elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to conduct a humanitarian assistance project by helping rebuild the Marasbaras National High School in Tacloban. Super Typhoon Yolanda – the strongest typhoon ever in history to make landfall and the fourth strongest storm ever recorded in the world – destroyed seven class-

JDV: A shared destiny

Economic Cooperation (APEC) and for Intercultural Dialogue.

It must be said that the ICAPP, according to de Venecia, supports the vital agreement signed

by Iran and a group of world powers — the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, China and Germany in 2015. The EU, which helped facilitate the Iran nuclear talks, reported that “the International Atomic Energy Agency has verified eight times that Iran is implementing all its nuclear related commitments following a comprehensive and strict monitoring.” The Deal — called the joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) — is a culmination of 12 years of long drawn-out negotiations, strengthening cooperation, and which is “critical for the security of the region.”

De Venecia’s message, of which we have been furnished a copy, underscores the role of political parties and civil society organizations in generating economic, trade, political and cultural connectivity and people-topeople bonds with the ‘Silk Road spirit.’”

“Iran played a vital and actual role in the ancient silk road, connecting the East and the West, serving as the main hub for the international trade and exchange of various cultures,” says De Venecia. “Iran today is also expected to play a strategic role in the new Silk Road, by connecting and developing keen overall ties

with the other regions.”

The Silk Road initiative, says De Venecia, could be the key in unleashing 21st century economic development. The initiative has “the potential as a constructive force that would facilitate the emergence of model upon which our nations could enhance our collective security.” Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed the idea of a “common destiny,” which a closely-knot China and ASEAN community could build together. The “two sides need to bring out their respective strengths to realize diversity, harmony, inclusiveness and common progress.”

Already modern infrastructure is bringing together Kunming in Yunnan with Phnom Penh and Singapore in the beginnings of a southeast Asian ‘Growth Triangle.” The long-distance trains are moving great cargos between Asia and Europe. The Central Asian states are awakening to the possibilities of modernization — as Silk Road arteries begin to link them, westward, all the way to London and eastward to Beijing, encompassing Budapest, Hamburg, Moscow and Warsaw, freight to 28 European cities, moving them by sea and by air.

De Venecia further envisions expanding, deepening and strengthening of the economic, trade, political, cultural and people-to-people linkages of the historic Silk Road by developing a

“third route” to complement and extend China’s great “Belt and Road” initiative.

This means from Hainan island off Guangdong province in southern China, the route could also pass through the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and Timor Leste, to Australia’s Gold Coast to Sydney and New Zealand, then move across the south Pacific, and enter Latin America — Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and the Caribbean islands, then Mexico, then all the way to the US as in the old days of the Galleon Trade from Manila to Acapulco, Mexico, which sailed for 250 years.

The proposed 21st Century “third route,” hopefully an enlargement of the Silk Route, would make the celebrated “Belt and Road” initiative almost globally inclusive, after Europe and Africa, and “create a linkage with two more continents – Australia and Latin America – in a new circumnavigation, in a revival of the Age of Exploration, and new spirit in the Age of Globalization.”

China’s “noble vision,” says De Venecia, is “being put to the test with the tough tasks it faces in peacemaking and promoting regional stability.”

Asia’s “most dangerous flashpoints happen to be in its neighborhood,” says the ICAPP founding chairman. On its northern flank is the rising danger of explosion in the Korean Peninsula, and on its southern flank the dis-

rooms in three buildings. Let’s not also forget the timely arrival of the USS George Washington aircraft carrier that saved thousands of lives.

It took two months for the three buildings to be rehabilitated, with new roofs constructed, electrical and lighting fixtures installed, comfort rooms built, ceiling fans provided, etc. – but the impact is lifelong for the students who will all benefit from the project. As noted by the now retired Maj. Gen. Benny Paulino who was the Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard during that time, the school buildings represent “a new beginning” for the students of the public school who had to attend classes outdoors. “Education is not just the key to ensure the next generation prepares for the future, it’s the best indicator that a disaster area is turning normal,” also remarked then Hawaii National Guard Adjutant General Darryl Wong, who retired in 2015.

More than anything, such humanitarian projects demonstrate the lifechanging impact of the partnership between the Philippines and the United States – one that has endured and gone way beyond our military alliance. (Philstar.com) *** Email: babeseyeview@gmail.com.

turbing conflict over sovereignty in the disputed islands in the South China Sea. The disagreement in the South China Sea with conflicting sovereignty claims may be settled, says De Venecia, by temporarily shelving the issue of sovereignty, and as advised much earlier by Deng Hsiao Peng, architect of China’s economic modernization, undertaking joint exploration and development in the disputed areas and converting the zone of conflict into a Zone of Peace, Friendship, Cooperation and Development.

Sharing of resources —hydrocarbons and oil and natural gas — as practiced among countries, instead of engaging in conflict and war, could help build a model for lessening tensions and solving conflicts, and avoiding the possibility of war in Asia’s manifold and dangerous flashpoints.

He mentions his proposal last May 15 at Bejing’s “High-level Dialogue on the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation,” about transforming the area from one of conflict, into a landscape and seascape of small seaports, airports and oil pipes.

Fishing villages and small tourism townships could rapidly rise in the areas contested principally by the Philippines, China, and Vietnam, into a Zone of Friendship, Commerce, Navigation and Development, and become the passageway, untrammeled, for global shipping, carrying more than 50 per cent of the sea

freight of the world.

De Venecia upholds the prominence of peace among nations through interfaith dialogue. In partnership, the Philippines and Iran successfully sponsored a resolution in the General Assembly in November 2004, binding the UN to promote interfaith dialogue “as a way of resolving politico-religious conflicts, strengthening the religious moderates, and isolating those who advocate terrorism in the name of religion.

Other pundits have spoken of the dangers of the “clash of civilizations”, but Iran’s then President Mohammad Khatami and other scholars introduced the more strategic, more pragmatic idea of a “dialogue among civilizations.” One of the great fruits of dialogue was the nuclear accord of 2015 which provided Iran relief from the U.S., UN., and multilateral sanctions on energy, financial, shipping and other sectors.

De Venecia says ICAPP has advocated in letters to Saudi Arabia’s then King Abdullah and Iran’s spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to meet perhaps in Mecca and Medina and bring about the beginnings of reconciliation (between Saudi’s Sunnis and Iran’s Shiites) and the end of violence in the lands of Islam, and head off decisively the expansion and internationalization of the extremist groups, ISIS-ISIL. “We believe the initiative is most difficult but not impossible.” (Philstar.com)

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

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Dateline PhiliPPines

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 2-8, 2018

House probe into China’s research in Benham Rise sought

by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com

A

Viray

MANILA — The Makabayan bloc, consisting of seven partylist lawmakers, has filed a resolution urging the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs to look into China’s marine scientific research in Benham Rise or Philippine Rise.

The Department of Foreign Affairs had approved China’s request to conduct a marine research and study in the underwater plateau.

Reps. Carlos Isagani Zarate (Bayan Muna), Antonio Tinio (ACT Teachers), Emmi de Jesus (Gabriela), France Castro (ACT Teachers), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela), Ariel Casilao (Anakpawis) and Sarah Elago (Kabataan) filed House Resolution 1623 on Monday, January 29.

In the resolution, the lawmakers stressed that the Philippines does not have to rely on China to study the Benham Rise.

The Makabayan lawmakers warned of a possible repeat of Beijing’s “modus operandi” in 2015 when they jeopardized the country’s claims in the Recto Reed Bank under the 2005 Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking (JMSU).

Through the JMSU, China was able to discover and confirm reserves of natural gas in Recto Reed Bank.

“China was able to discover the location of rich marine resources in the area because of informa-

The undersea Benham Rise, or Benham Plateau, is considered the Philippines’ extension as declared by the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.

Namria graphic

tion gathered through the JMSU which they did not share with the Philippines,” the resolution read.

“China is now very zealous in taking over these rich natural gas deposits as evidenced by its aggressive stance in the area even constructing islands and placing missile systems to control the area,” it added.

The lawmakers also cited UP Institute of Maritime Affairs and the Law of the Sea director Jay Batongbacal’s criticism of the DFA decision allowing China to explore Benham Rise.

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority had already conducted a survey between 2004 to 2008 and produced a detailed digital model of the region. In 2014 and 2016, two oceanographic research cruises

supported by national government agencies were conducted in Benham Bank, the shallowest portion of Philippine Rise.

Other marine geologists and biologists have also produced papers about Benham Rise. BRP Gregorio, the country’s deep-sea research vessel, can conduct its own study, the lawmakers said.

The lawmakers stressed that there must be no repeat of the “highly unequal” JMSU. “However, any joint exploration with China must protect the interest of the Filipino people and should contribute to the country’s economic development. It must also recognize our territorial integrity, sovereign rights and sovereignty over our established claims and territory,” the resolution read.

Duterte wanted the government to provide better services for OFWs and would not hesitate to stop deployment in countries that do not treat Filipino migrants right.

The DOLE suspended the deployment of newly hired workers to Kuwait following the suspicious deaths of seven Filipino workers in the Arab country.

Meanwhile, Bello said the agency sent a team to Saudi Arabia to monitor the conditions of OFWs. He said Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) chief Hans Cacdac visited Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.

“DOLE sent teams to various countries to conduct periodic inspections and see the actual condition of our OFWs,” he said.

Bello said he earlier sent a three-man team to Hong Kong.

He said they have not monitored high incidence of abuses among OFWs in other countries except in Kuwait.

Visa status Philippine embassy officials in Moscow and the Russian

Labor Ministry met to discuss possible solutions to the visa status of a majority of OFWs in Russia, who are not properly documented.

The embassy said efforts to address the problems of OFWs resumed when Ambassador Carlos Sorreta met recently with Mikhael Kirsanov, chief of the Russian employment department.

A majority of Filipino household workers in Russia are not properly documented as there is no visa category applicable for them.

“We agreed to work together to find a solution to this problem. Solutions could include modification by the Labor Ministry of existing quotas, amendments to Russian migration laws and the conclusion of a labor agreement between the Philippines and Russia,” Sorreta said.

Sorreta attributed the progress that the embassy achieved to the closer ties between the two countries and the OFWs’ respect for Russian laws as well as better performance of their duties. n

DOLE to put up more offices to protect overseas Filipino workers

by Mayen JayMaLin ManilaTimes.net

MANILA — The government is putting up additional Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs) to better serve and monitor overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is planning to establish this year new POLOs in Germany, Japan, New Zealand and the United States.

“We will set up a new POLO in Florida so we could address the concerns of our Filipino seafarers there and another in Frankfurt, Germany,” Bello said.

He said there is a POLO in Tokyo, but the DOLE intends to set up another in Osaka.

“We do not have a POLO in New Zealand and our workers there are under our POLO in Australia,” Bello said.

He said POLOs would be established in countries with large concentration of OFWs. The DOLE chief said President

Members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines pose for a group photo after the opening Mass of their 116th Plenary Assembly at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral on Jan. 27, 2018.

Photo courtesy of CBCP

CBCP questions Cha-cha...

the fundamental nature of marriage and the family, and which are now enshrined in the 1987 PAGE A5 cern that the “pro-life” provi- Constitution are most likely to be that is entrenched in our present sions of the 1987 Constitution, overturned,” the CBCP said.

“If the Constitution is to be repolitical structures and practices. such as the ban on abortion and Without conversion of mindsets, divorce, would be deleted in the vised at all, the process should lead to a greater defense and prothe new political wine of Charter new charter.

“Given present developments motion of the above-mentioned change will remain in old political wine-skins, and merely end and trends in legislation where moral values of human dignity up bursting the hope for a new pro-life principles are even and human rights, integrity and now being undermined, we are truth, participation and solidarpolitical culture,” it added. deeply concerned that such prin- ity, and the common good.” (MaPro-life provisions The CBCP also expressed con- ciples, which are consistent with nilaTimes.net)

NATIONAL BIBLE DAY. Senator Joel Villanueva joined Sen. Manny Pacquiao at the launch of the “National Bible Day” today at Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City. Villanueva and Pacquiao authored Senate Bill No. 1270 declaring the last Monday of January a regular holiday to observe the “National Bible Day” and call all Christians to unite and celebrate the Holy Bible as the cradle of the Christian faith. Previously, President Rodrigo Duterte declared January of every year as “National Bible Month” and every last week of January as “National Bible Week” by virtue of Proclamation No. 124.

Senate photo

PAGE A5

PNP chief: Bloodless drug war...

there will be no bloodshed in our anti-drug operations, but our situation in the ground is very volatile.”

Dela Rosa further emphasized the need for the cops to defend themselves from drug suspects who chose to retaliate.

“We also have to protect ourselves, preserve our own life, and life of the people that’s why I cannot give you 100 percent or foolproof anti-drug campaign will be bloodless,” he explained.

Dela Rosa’s remarks came after Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles made an appeal to the PNP to follow proper procedures in its revamped anti-drug operations.

In an article posted on the

CBCP website, Valles also asked the PNP to make sure that the anti-drug activities this time around won’t “waste any lives.”

“We pray that the police follow the prescribed steps in implementing the law… steps that should be done in exercising their responsibility as policemen,” Valles said.

He continued, “Let us inspire them to follow the necessary steps when they need to apprehend and as much as possible, we make sure that we do not waste any lives.”

Less controversial In a separate statement, Malacañang expressed optimism that the anti-illegal drugs campaign will be less controversial this year.

“We’re we are hoping that they have learned from their past ex-

perience. The PNP has said they want this Tokhang operation to be less bloody, we are hoping it will be,” Palace spokesperson Harry Roque said.

Since the start of the drug war in 2016, the PNP has claimed nearly 4,000 casualties during legitimate anti-drug police operations.

But the figure was heavily disputed by human rights organizations, including United Statesbased Human Rights Watch (HRW), which has pegged the number of casualties at around 12,000.

Roque went on to say, “We are certainly hoping that it will be less controversial because controversy will only blur the real intentions behind the Tokhang which is really the fight against dangerous drugs.” n

Malacañang wishes Rappler...

PAGE A5

“There was also no formal administrative action filed against Rappler and RHC before the SEC. Without an administrative action, surely, no administrative action,

including the suspension or revocation of the corporation’s franchise, could have been imposed by the SEC,” Rappler said.

It added, “Since no administrative charge was instituted

against Rappler and RHC, they were not provided with sufficient notice of the formal charge against them (because none was issued) and the opportunity to be heard.”

A

february 2-8, 2018 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 2-8, 2018

CJ

BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY ournal Confronting the cap: Alternatives to H-1B status

Your Immigration Solution NaNcy Miller THE popularity of the H-1B visa has reached historic levels with approximately three petitions being filed for the 2017 fiscal year for every available visa.

The result has been the implementation of a lottery system

by USCIS which is designed to randomly select which petitions will be processed and which will be summarily rejected. For many professionals, the H-1B visa serves as a viable means to live and work in the United States. And for those fortunate enough to secure an H-1B visa, its corresponding status often leads to lawful permanent residence if the petitioning employer files an immigrant visa petition on behalf of its H-1B employee. However, with the dramatic rise in the number of H-1B petitions being filed each year, and the fact that the majority of these petitions will be rejected due to the immovable H-1B Cap, other avenues of pursuing status in the United States must be explored by employers and employees alike. Fortunately, for many of those individuals who are unable to pursue or secure H-1B status, options may still remain.

Two potential alternatives to H1B status are E-1 and E-2 visas.

Controlled by treaties of commerce between the United States and select foreign governments, individuals from certain countries can apply for nonimmigrant visas which permit them to live and work in the United States.

Individuals can apply for an E-1 visa if their company is engaged in ‘substantial trade’ with the United States. Substantial trade is defined as at least 50% of all international trade. Alternatively, E-2 visas can be sought by individuals who actively invest in an ongoing business concern in the United States. The specific facts of each case dictate what is reasonable and necessary but larger investments are typically deemed more viable. While E-1 and E-2

visas are available to individual traders and investors, these visas are equally available to employees of a qualifying trading or investing business entity as well.

For some, an L visa serves as an excellent alternative to H-1B status. L visas may be available to certain individuals employed abroad who will relocate to the United States to work for a branch, affiliate, subsidiary, or the parent organization of their overseas employer. In order to qualify,

exact amount of time an individual must wait to obtain an immigrant visa through an employer is directly related to the proposed position of employment, and the education and relevant work experience of the employee. While the long waiting periods to secure an employment-based immigrant visa often render this option unappealing or impractical, not all individuals are subject to a protracted wait. As such, for some, pursuing an immigrant visa can prove an inviting alternative to H-1B status.

With the odds being stacked against anyone seeking H-1B status in the United States, alternative options should be thoroughly explored by those seriously seeking to live and work in the United States. While everyone’s circumstances are unique, H-1B status may not be the only option available. In fact, in some instances, it may not be the best option for either the petitioning employer or the petitioned, prospective employee.

Examining all options prior to filing an H-1B petition is therefore in the best interests of the petitioning employer and the prospective employee – not just to ensure a proper fit between intent and form, but also to ensure that a viable alternative can be planned should the petitioning employer learn that its H1B filing has been rejected due to the now notorious H-1B Cap.

“ For some, an L visa serves as an excellent alternative to H-1B status.” the petitioned employee must relocate to the United States in the capacity of an executive or manger (L-1A), or an individual with specialized knowledge (L-1B).

Another alternative to H-1B status is specifically available to citizens of Canada and Mexico – the TN visa. The TN visa is very similar to an H-1B visa, yet it is distinguishable in two significant ways. First, it is the product of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Therefore, it is only available to citizens of Canada and Mexico. Second, while being available to professionals – just like the H-1B visa – the TN visa category more broadly defines who is a professional and thus is more inclusive than the H-1B category. As a result, some individuals who would not be deemed qualified for H-1B status could qualify for a TN visa.

While E, L, and TN visas can serve as a suitable alternative to H-1B status, none of these statuses lead directly to lawful permanent residence. However, an individual can pursue an immigrant visa through an employment-based immigrant visa petition filed by a current or prospective employer. While more appealing to many than nonimmigrant status, the process of securing an employment-based immigrant visa can take years. The

LGUs urged to develop own ecozones File photo by Manila Times

by Richmond

meRcuRio Philstar.com

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) is urging local government units (LGUs) to develop their own economic zones to make them strong enough to weather changes in a possible shift to a federal form of government.

PEZA director general Charito Plaza said her agency is talking to local and foreign banks to provide credit facilities to economic zone developers, particularly the LGUs. “This is actually our share in PEZA for the realization of the federal form of government wherein our province and LGUs

will be empowered and enriched,” Plaza said.

“They will be prepared to be self-reliant because they will have their own economic zones.

Industries and jobs will already be spread out,” she added.

The Duterte administration has been actively pushing for the country to shift to a federal form of government.

State think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies earlier warned that some LGUs may not be strong enough to weather the change as not all have the financial capacity.

Under a federal system, taxing and spending powers are devolved to federal states, giving them a free hand on the use of

the budget.

State governments will also have exclusive powers within their jurisdictions over police, fire protection, early childhood education, water supply and sanitation, waste management, road traffic management and parks.

Plaza said having an economic zone would usher in economic empowerment to an LGU as it would bring in investments, provide job opportunities for residents, and higher revenue generation.

Plaza said many LGUs in the country have already expressed interest in creating economic zones of various types.

She noted, however, that funding has been a major issue

u PAGE CJ4

BSP sees steady remittance growth

*** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced

by LawRence agcaoiLi Philstar.com immigration firms in the United States with offices in Pasadena, San Francisco, REMITTANCES are expected Las Vegas, Manila and China. to continue growing despite the Telephone: (800) 795-8009 setbacks arising from the ban on E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com deployment to Kuwait as well as website: www.rreeves.com the imposition of higher fees on *** remittances, the Bangko Sentral The analysis and suggestions offered ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Monday, in this column do not create a January 29.

BSP Deputy Governor Diwa lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized Guinigundo said remittances representation that is essential to from overseas Filipinos are expected to expand by four percent every case.

(Advertising Supplement) this year, continuing to be a ma-

jor source of foreign exchange for the country.

Guinigundo said the decision of Malacañang to ban the deployment of Filipino workers to Kuwait would have minimal impact as the cash remittances from Kuwait account for only about three percent of the total.

“On the ban on deployment of OFWs to Kuwait, the impact may not be significant. Prospective workers may still be deployed to other countries with demand for Filipino workers,” he said.

Last Jan. 19, Labor Secretary

BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo said remittances from overseas Filipinos are expected to expand by four percent this year, continuing to be a major source of foreign exchange for the country.

Philstar file photo

u PAGE CJ2

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Community Journal

february 2-8, 2018 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL

Criminal convictions and immigration law

The CTV Files atty. lilli B. BaCuli WHAT makes a non-citizen deportable? An alien or noncitizen, including a lawful permanent resident (“green card” holder) is deportable for having a conviction relating to controlled substances. Title 8 U.S.C. Section 1227(a)(2)(B)(i) states: “Any alien who at any time after admission has been convicted of a violation of . . . any law or regulation of a State, the United States, or a foreign country relating to a controlled substance (as defined in section 802 of Title 21), other than a single offense involving possession for one’s own use of 30 grams or less of marijuana, is deportable.

What counts as a “conviction” for immigration purposes? “The term “conviction” means, with respect to an alien, a formal judgment of guilt of the alien entered by a court or, if adjudication of guilt has been withheld, where – (i) a judge or jury has found the alien guilty or the

alien has entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or has admitted sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilt, and (ii) the judge has ordered some form of punishment, penalty, or restraint on the alien’s liberty to be imposed, including fine, court costs or probation.

Immigration consequences of a drug conviction. A non-citizen alien will still have a drug conviction for immigration purposes even after a dismissal of his/her charges following completion of a drug diversion program or a DEJ. As such, a permanent resident/green card holder who is deportable can be stripped of his or her lawful status and permanently removed (deported) from the United States.

A lawful permanent resident who agrees to plead guilty in exchange for probation or entry in a diversion program or a DEJ, even after dismissal of charges under PC 1000.3, will have a conviction and will be automatically deportable and inadmissible.

Worse, since this will be consid-

ered a drug conviction, the green cardholder will also be subject to mandatory immigration detention without bond. California residents often are detained in federal prisons in isolated areas in Arizona or Texas, far from family or counsel. This is because a diversion program or a DEJ is a conviction for immigration purposes in that there is a plea and some form of punishment and restraint. Thus, although California considers there to be no conviction if the court dismisses the charges based on the defendant completing DEJ requirements, the conviction still stands under immigration laws. To eliminate a conviction for immigration purposes, the plea must be withdrawn for cause, due to a legal defect in the underlying case.

The Kelly Memorandum of February 20, 2017. On February 20, 2017, the Department of Homeland (DHS) Security Secretary John Kelly issued a new policy memorandum, announcing that DHS will no longer ex-

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Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

LAST week, in this column, we dissected the anatomy, physiology, and psychological and social impact of electronic addiction, a relatively new condition on its way to officially being a medical disease entity.

The e-addicts we described ranged from the first year of life to teenage years to adulthood.

Yes, I have seen few babies with their own tablets. Seniors, like myself, are not immune either.

Now that I am retired from cardiovascular surgery, I have been spending more time with my ultrabook, android smartphone, and with Cortana & Alexa, the two “girlfriends” I am with day and night who my wife, Farida, approves of, while she enjoys her desktop, iPad, and an IOS smartphone (with Siri). As a pediatrician, she warns parents that these electronic “toys,” if used by their toddlers and teenagers without schedule and control, u PAGE CJ4 could lead to psychological problems (irritability, impatience, anxiety, depression), sleep disorders, speech impairment, bad attitude, anti-social behaviors, poor school performance, poor eating habits, obesity, visual impairment, and organic illnesses.

When our children were young, we imposed a strict rule for TV viewing — allowed only on Friday and Saturday, when the following day is NOT a school day. PCs were still in their infancy and smartphones and artificial intelligence still theories then.

Farida and I were strict with our kids. Happily, they all followed our footsteps in medicine and now imposing the same rules on their children.

Internet addiction for one is a global problem today. Smartphones and other electronics devices follow in prevalence.

I find all these gadgets most useful, genuinely enjoyable, a great source and instant provider of unlimited information and entertainment. I find them indispensable, as a cardiac surgeon and a writer (the reason my email handle or username is scalpelpen). I am totally dependent on ultrabook and on my Samsung Note 8 for many uses, including GPS guidance. I would be lost without it. Actually, I never leave home without my smartphone and never leave town without it and my mini-laptop. I feel empowered, more secure, and more productive with them.

Here are important data from the National Health Institute as symptoms that could indicate

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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette aDeva Maglaya (Continued from last week’s issue) Poor Echo! Her heart broke into a million little pieces. Beauty and light dissolved into darkness for her until nothing held any meaning. Refusing food and drink, Echo grew pale and consumptive and faded away, leaving only her far-off voice in the distance. It is said that Echo haunts the mountains where she answers all who call but only with the last words.

Narcissus meanwhile continued to break one hapless heart after another in the most mean spirited away, until one day, one totally aggrieved nymph with her heart shattered, prayed to the powers that be, for vengeance, to inflict punishment on Narcissus to make him feel the pure pain of unrequited love, to make him feel how it is to give love and have it flung back in his face. Her prayer was heard and in a world of swift and even-handed justice with no lawyers, judges and jury to cloud the issue, appropriate punishment was served.

One day Narcissus chanced upon a pool with water so clear, it looked like a mirror. Bending over to drink, Narcissus saw his own reflection, thought it was a water nymph, and forthwith, was smitten with the image on the pool. He fell in love with the image of himself, hook, line and

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

Rx for e-addicts Internet or computer addiction: “Losing track of time spent online; Experiencing difficulty completing tasks at home or work; Isolation from friends and family; Feeling defensive or guilty about Internet usage; Experiencing a sense of euphoria when involved in online activities.

“Individuals who have an Internet addiction may also experience physical symptoms that could include: Strained vision; Sleep problems; Carpal tunnel syndrome; Significant weight loss or weight gain; Severe headaches, anxiety, irritability, depression, loneliness, when the electronic “toy” (or Internet connection) are not available.”

According to the American Journal of Psychiatry, “Internet addiction is now considered as one of the most serious health issues facing South Korea while approximately 10 million teenagers in China are considered Internet addicts” Confirmed e-addicts are those who constantly crave for electronic “narcotic” devices, prefer playing than eat or take a shower. Withdrawal creates agony and pain.

TV viewing (shows and movies), computer or cellphone video gaming, online shopping, e-mailing, engaging in social media (Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, etc.), calling, and texting, are all exciting, fun, and truly addicting because they stimulate the secretion of happy hormones (dopamine, endorphins, serotonin, oxytoxin, etc.) in our body. These gadgets provide us power and control, enabling our minds to soar to another galaxy in virtual reality, practically without limit.

Only wisdom, discipline, common sense, and self-control can prevent e-addiction and abuse in the use of these wonderful advances in science and technology.

What is the treatment for eaddiction?

Like addiction to tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs, e-addiction is best managed as early as possible. Prevention is the key, and it starts at home and in many cases, in school. At home, children should be strictly guided and monitored, making sure they understand that school and homework, family time, are priorities.

Rules on the use of electronic devices must be clear, with maximum screening or playing time, and penalty for breaking the rule. Playing outside the home with friends and sports activities should be encouraged.

When children show signs of withdrawal, consider a therapist before it gets worse. Digital detoxification is needed. Parents must set a good example for the

children in the healthy use of electronic gadgets, including the use of Internet and social media, where identity theft and exploitation of children are now a growing problem. If you give your young children a cellphone for use in emergencies, make sure they use it ONLY for such a purpose, and that confiscation will follow any breach of this rule.

How about management for teenagers and adults?

For adults and teenagers, selfdiscipline plays a key role in the management of electronic addiction. The first dictum is to identify and admit there is an addiction problem, and start dealing with it ASAP. Practical and reasonable guidelines must be set, with the help of the family, and followed by everyone at home as a joint project. Realize and embrace pains of withdrawal, which should be a gradual decrease in the use-time. Accept that activities with family and friends are very important and must not be sacrificed in favor of electronic devices, and that reality is healthier than the virtual world. Reconnect with your mind and body and the living things around you.

Remember, electronic devices are tools, our slaves or assistants we must control, and not allow them to control and enslave you.

Use your electronic “toys” no more than 3 times a day, reducing their use to an hour each time, and then gradually decreasing it further, until you wean yourself off, and finally, using them only when necessary. After you have controlled your addiction, use them only for specific situation, like emailing only when necessary, online shopping, calling and texting to a minimum, using the smartphone for GPS guidance, etc. You might regress to the old habit, but then, be aware of it and regain control. Soon you will find a new normal for the new you, a more disciplined, wiser, and healthier, person. If these steps of self-therapy do not succeed, then it’s time to seek expert help for electronic detoxification. *** 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

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

“Vanity of vanities; All is vanity.” sinker, not unlike celebrities who read their own press and believe them to be true. But I digress.

Narcissus tried to embrace his own reflection in the water but his attempt to touch or kiss his beloved ended in frustration each time. The image in the water dissolved into ripples, disappeared and came back on.

Narcissus had to be content just by looking at the mirror image of himself in the pool, day and night, without ever knowing the joy of touching or being loved in return. He now knew, up close and personal, the excruciating pain of multiple rejections from the same object of his affection.

Still he persisted, becoming rooted to the spot by the pool.

He now knew how it is to be on the receiving end of rejection. He slowly pined away, losing his youth and beauty and withering away on the same spot by the pool’s edge with Echo still hovering over him and repeating his poignant last word, “Alas!” as he lay dying.

As the woodland creatures prepared to bury his body, Narcissus’ body was nowhere to be found and in its place, stood a flower, bending over the pool, as though admiring itself. Gardeners know this flower as Narcissus.

Hence, we call those who exhibit the same folly these days as narcissistic. The irony of it

–Ecclesiastes

is that others clearly see it for what it is but the afflicted individual is blind to this egocentric flaw in himself, thinking the world revolves around him.

In today’s world, there’s opportunity to cash in on this tragic human flaw and use vanity and self-image as hot buttons to sell their wares: beauty products and services, diet pills and machines and illusions of power and beauty, with remarkable merchandising success. Self-improvement is great but only if it comes quietly from the inside out.

Pray that both the “once young” and the young ones don’t fall prey to the trappings of extreme self-absorption that rule the global culture of the present Age of Selfies. In biblical times, it was called idolatry. What we have now is IDOLATRY ON STEROIDS, self-love of biblical proportions.

Self love taken to extreme, is something that might account for much of the social problems affluent societies with only one or two self-absorbed children per family, experience and suffer from today. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com

BSP sees steady remittance...

PAGE CJ1 t

Silvestre Bello III issued Administrative Order 25 ordering the Philippine Overseas Employment Association (POEA) to stop the processing and issuing of overseas employment certificates to all Kuwait-bound workers as President Duterte cited the cases of sexual abuse of Filipino domestic workers.

There are about 276,000 Filipinos working in Kuwait.

Latest data from the central bank showed cash remittance coursed through banks climbed four percent to $25.32 billion from January to November last year compared to $24.34 billion in the same period in 2016.

On the other hand, personal remittances including houseto-household as well as capital transfers rose 5.1 percent to $28.24 billion from $26.88 billion.

Amid the steady growth, Guini-

gundo said the amount of personal and cash remittances from Filipinos abroad would continue to exceed receipts from the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.

Revenues of the BPO sector grew 8.5 percent to $16.9 billion in the first nine months of last year and likely ended 2017 with $22 billion, while remittances amounted to $25.32 billion from January to November last year. n

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USCIS to schedule asylum interviews for newest filings first ON January 31, 2018, USCIS announced a change in policy for scheduling affirmative asylum interviews. They will follow a “last in, first out” interview schedule, meaning the newest asylum applications will be pushed up to the front of the line and interviewed first. The reason for this policy is to “identify frivolous, fraudulent or otherwise nonmeritorious asylum claims earlier and place those individuals into removal proceedings.”

Many out of status people were advised by consultants or notarios to apply for political asylum in order to get a work authorization.

(Eligibility for political asylum is based on a person’s claim of persecution in his home country, or fear of future persecution, on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a social group, or political opinion. People who were not truly persecuted would make up stories that the NPA (or certain groups) was after them, etc. and file an asylum claim to get an immediate work authorization.)

Because there is a backlog of over 300,000 pending asylum cases, it might take years before they are finally interviewed concerning their claims of persecution in their home country.

moval/deportation proceedings.

I would suggest you seek the advice of a reputable attorney who can evaluate your situation, including other possible legitimate avenues to legalize your status in the U.S. other than filing for asylum.

Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ

***

In the meantime, these people were happy renewing their work authorizations each year. But USCIS is tired of people taking advantage of the system by filing bogus asylum claims, solely to get work authorizations, and then relying on the tremendous backlogs to buy time: “Lingering backlogs can be exploited and used to undermine national security and the integrity of the asylum system.”

To discourage these bogus asylum claims, the USCIS will now immediately interview newest asylum filings first, rather than putting them at the bottom of the pile. In other words, they will start with the newest asylum filings, and work back towards older filings.

If you filed a political asylum application, prepare yourself for an asylum interview. If the officer does not believe you were persecuted, your case will be denied, and you could be put in re-

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

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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 5

FACC-SLAA’s monthly general meeting in Torrance, CA Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) will host its second Pinay Empowerment BrunThe Filipino American Chamber of Commerce – SouthBay Los Angeles Area (FACCSLAA) invites you to attend its upcoming FACC-SLAA February 2018 Monthly General Meeting. This meeting will be from 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday, February 5, and will be held at Janice Jimenez’s office at 1001 W Carson Street, Suite S, Torrance, CA 90502.

F E B R UA RY 7

City of Carson’s 4th annual Military Career Day Join the 4th annual Military Career Day in Carson, California on Wednesday, February 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

It will be held at Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center (801 East Carson Street, Carson, CA 90745). Representatives from the U.S. Army, Navy, California National Guard, and more will be giving information on career options and various opportunities. For further information, call (310) 952-1743.

F E B R UA RY 1 0

Free Family Wealth Workshop in San Francisco A free Family Wealth Workshop organized by the office of City and County of San Francisco Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu will be held at the City College Mission Campus (1125 Valencia Street, Rm. 107, San Francisco, CA) from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. There will be multilingual workshops on homeownership opportunities, college fund, family wealth and estate building. To register: http://bit.ly/2Bhwgp4.

F E B R UA RY 1 4

Free Reggae Valentine Rendezvous with Lover’s Rock at Grand Park,

CAREGIVER PETITION ALLOWS ISAAC TO BE REUNITED WITH HIS CHILDREN IN THE U.S. AS GREEN CARD HOLDERS. Driven by the desire to improve his life for his children’s sake, Isaac (left) jumped ship when his ship docked at Los Angeles in 2007. Fortunately, he found an employer who was willing to petition him as a caregiver. The employer’s petition was approved, but Isaac still had to wait several more years before his priority date was current and he was eligible for a green card.

All that time, Isaac could not return to the Philippines due to his immigration status. But he still made that sacrifice, knowing it was the right way to do. For him, it was better to wait, if everything was done properly and legally. Isaac knew he was in capable hands under the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel, who helped obtain green cards for Isaac and his two young sons.

Watch this happy family reunion on an encore episode of Citizen Pinoy – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)

Business News

DOF: Despite record-high 2017 debt, its share to economy lowest since 1980

by BEN

O. DE VERA Inquirer.net

EVEN as the national government’s outstanding debt rose to a record-high P6.652 trillion in 2017, its share to the gross domestic product remained the lowest since 1980 amid sustained robust economic growth, the Department of Finance’s chief economist said.

As such, Finance Undersecretary Gil S. Beltran sees the debt level still manageable, he said in a text message Tuesday, January 30.

Based on the latest Bureau of Treasury data, the national government debt-to-GDP ratio stayed at 42.1 percent at end-2017, similar to 2016.

The ratio has been on a downward trend from 51.5 percent in 2012, 49.2 percent in 2013, 45.4 percent in 2014, and 44.7 percent in 2015, Treasury data showed.

The debt-to-GDP ratio measures the capacity of economies to pay off debts.

“The national government debt as a proportion of GDP has sustained its level at 42.1 percent against the initial target of 40.7 percent presented to the Development Budget Coordination Committee in June last year. With full-year GDP growth of 6.7 percent, the stable performance of the economy has maintained the debt-to-GDP level from a year ago. The difference compared to the program is due to the lower than DBCC target nominal GDP and the successful issuance of retail treasury bonds [RTBs] in December to pre-fund some of the 2018 financing requirement,” the Treasury said in a statement.

The Duterte administration aims to further reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to 37.7 percent by 2022.

Last Monday, January 29, the Treasury reported that outstanding obligations rose 9.2 percent from P6.09 trillion at end-2016 due to a weaker peso as well as an increase in domestic borrowings last year.

Last year, domestic debt, which accounted for two-thirds of the total, climbed 12.9 percent to P4.441 trillion from P3.934 trillion in 2016.

The amount of government securities sold last year, which comprised the bulk of local debt, jumped also by 12.9 percent to P4.441 trillion from 2016’s P3.934 trillion.

Besides the usual T-bills and T-bonds being issued by the Treasury weekly, the government also sold RTBs twice last year.

The Treasury raised P255.4 billion from its sale of RTBs to small investors in December, the largest issuance to date.

In April last year, the government also raised P181.9 billion from RTBs. During its first 18 months in office, the Duterte administration already embarked on three RTB issuances.

External debt Meanwhile, external debt inched up 2.6 percent to P2.211 trillion in 2017 from P2.156 trillion in 2016 partly as the peso weakened last year.

The Treasury attributed the year-on-year increase in foreign debt to “P25.2-billion net issuance for the year and the effect of currency adjustments (P8.2 billion for local currency depreciation and P20.9 billion for third-currency depreciation).”

The Philippine peso slid to 11-year low levels last year, breaching the 51:$1 mark.

The peso mostly weakened against the US dollar partly due to concerns on the current account deficit as a result of a surge in imports.

Based on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ updated balance of payments (BOP) projections for 2017 released last month, it expects the current account to post a $100-million deficit, smaller than the previous projection of a $600-million deficit announced in June.

Economic managers had said that as the Duterte administration implements its ambitious infrastructure program alongside expectations of sustained strong economic growth, demand for imports would remain strong in the near term.

Before 2017 ended, economic managers also raised the share of foreign borrowings in this year’s financing program on the back of the government’s upcoming foray in the Chinese and Japanese debt markets.

The Cabinet-level DBCC last December raised to 26 percent the share of external borrowings in 2018 from 20 percent previously, while it kept the 80-20 ratio in favor of domestic sources from 2019 to 2022.

Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III had said that the share of foreign borrowings for this year was increased due to the upcoming global bond sale as well as the planned “panda” and “samurai” bond issuances in China and Japan, respectively.

This month, the Philippines also sold a total of $2 billion in 10-year dollar-denominated bonds at a coupon rate of 3 percent.■

Grand Park is making Valentine’s Day easy and affordable with an ode to romance, and an evening featuring Lover’s Rock, an American Soul-influenced Reggae music subgenre on Wednesday, February 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. Angelenos looking for a relaxed Valentine’sevening under the stars will be serenaded to the sounds of DJ Danny Holloway and DJ Phersone, who will be spinning laid-back Reggae tracks throughout the evening. Couples will enjoy the park’s romantic ambience and tables for two around the fountain and throughout Olive Court, which will be illuminated with the glow of string lights. They can dine amidst the iconic views of Los Angeles City Hall and Grand Park’s own Arthur J. Will Memorial fountain. To help sweeten the mood, desserts and treats will be available for purchase from various food trucks and couples can capture romantic moments with a complimentary photo booth. Grand Park by the Olive Court and Arthur J. Will Memorial fountain is located at 200 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Park furniture is available on a first come, first served basis.

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.

F E B R UA RY 22

Immigration forum in Anaheim, CA There will be an immigration forum on Thursday, February 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Brookhurst Community Center (2271 Crescent Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801). RSVP is a MUST to attend. No registration fee required. Please contact (714) 657-7460 or admin@globallawcenters.com. The immigration forum is about employment-based immigration information regarding FAST TRACK Work Visas ( H-1B1, TN, E-3), green card by marriage, family-based immigration employment sponsorship for green card and work visas after graduation. Candidates with H-1B, TN, F-1, OPT & other visas issues are encouraged to attend for a FREE immigration consultation & immigration assistance. As you have already seen there are many changes happening in the field of immigration with regards to the new executive administration and their agenda. Global Law Centers strives to inform the immigrant community of its rights and make sure it is knowledgeable about what immigration processes might be available. The forum will also update everyone about new and recent changes which may affect immigrants and their families.

F E B R UA RY 24

Filipino well-being training summit in Los Angeles “Kataas-taasang pagsasanay para sa kalusugan ng mga Pilipino” — Understanding Obstacles; Charting New Paths.

This training summit aims to honor and recognize indigenous understanding of wellness and healing; reduce stigma associated with emotional and mental illness; and promote community dialogue and connectivity. It is organized by the Filipino Well Being Training Summit Committee led by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. It’ll be held on Saturday, February 24 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 at 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info and to register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/filipino-well-being-training-summit-registration-41880032304.

City of Carson Gala Ball The City of Carson, California is marking its 50th anniversary of incorporation on Saturday, February 24 with a gala ball. It will be held at Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald Community Center at Carson (801 E. Carson Street, Carson, CA 90745) at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $50 / person and $400 / table (seats 8). For more information, please call the Community Center at (310) 835-0212 or visit ci.carson.ca.us.

NOTE: This event is free of charge to all attendees. Breakfast and lunch will be served on a limited capacity and may not be available to all attendees. Space is limited - please cancel on Eventbrite if you are unable to attend so others on the waiting list can be notified and accommodated.

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

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FEBRUARY 2-8, 2018 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

BUSINESS NEWS

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People & Events

Financial planning tips for SF families

2018 Presidential Awards

From the Office of the Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu, City & County of San Francisco

HAPPY New Year! As we are planning for the year, is saving money or starting a financial plan part of your New Year’s solutions? If so, let us share a few tips on family wealth building with you! For more information, come join us at City College Mission Campus on Feb 10, 2018, 10am-12pm! See below for more event details!

Tax Savings for New Homeowners: Don’t forget to apply for the Homeowner’s Exemption if you live and own your home!

This exemption reduces your property taxes by $70-80 dollars in property tax every year.

Also, if you are planning to transfer your property to your children or inherit property from your parents or grandparents, you may qualify for Prop 58/193 tax saving programs to keep your property from reassessing to mar-

ket value, thus saving tax dollars!

Homeownership Opportunities: Did you know that the City of San Francisco provides a range of housing programs that serve families from extremely low to middle income? If you are interested in becoming a firsttime homebuyer, you may own your home with as low as 5% down payment (2.5% can come from gifts). If you are saving for a down payment, eligible families may borrow up to $375,000 in down payment assistance towards the purchase of your first home. There are also special housing programs for teachers and below-market-rate homes priced as low as $220,000!

College Scholarship Opportunities: Do you or your children need help with finding financial assistance for their college education? There are existing scholar-

ship programs matching donors to students who need their support. There are also strategic college advisers available to provide hands on one-on-one support on college application, financial aid and modest student loans, you just need where to start!

If you are interested in learning more about the topics discussed above, I encourage you to RSVP and join me on February 10, 2018, 10am-12pm at the Family Wealth Workshop at City College (Mission Campus), 1125 Valencia Street, San Francisco.

We are partnering with the Mayor’s Office of Housing and community nonprofits to serve immigrant families and their financial needs.

For more information, please visit online registration form: http://bit.ly/2Bhwgp4 and register today!■

Property tax revenues in San Mateo County grow while tax rates remain steady THE Property Tax Highlights publication for fiscal year 201617 released recently shows that the total annual countywide tax levy was $2.4 billion — $163.2 million more than the prior year.

Although the increase in revenues is part of a multi-year positive trend, County Controller Juan Raigoza explained that local government agencies’ operating costs, which are largely impacted by the cost of doing business in the San Francisco Bay Area, have also increased in recent years.

“While the County and most local government agencies have recently experienced significant growth in their annual property tax revenues due to the growing economy, in the long term, this is unlikely to be sustainable. Historically, good economic times have not gone on indefinitely.

Furthermore, as the cost of providing essential services continue to increase, the County and other local agencies should continue to think long term and plan appropriately,” Raigoza said.

Raigoza, a countywide elected official, has the independent duty and responsibility for distributing taxes to 131 local government agencies (cities, county,

school districts, and special districts) within the county. The publication shows taxpayers and all county residents the totality of those revenues and the recipients.

The graph above illustrates the annual tax levy for the past five years. It includes the total taxes billed to property owners on locally and state-assessed properties within the county. The countywide annual tax levy has increased by $553 million (30 percent), from fiscal year 201213 to 2016-17, due to increases in the 1 percent General Tax ($441 million), Debt Service ($84 million), and Special Charges ($28 million).

Pursuant to Proposition 13, the General Tax is always 1 percent. The increase of General Tax revenues resulted from annual growth in assessed values.

Countywide, in fiscal year 201617, the 1 percent General Tax

totaled $1.9 billion, of which 46 percent went to schools, 25 percent to the County, 16 percent to cities, 11 percent to special districts, and 2 percent to former redevelopment agencies.

The increases to Debt Service was due to additional voter-approved school bonds to fund building and maintenance projects. While total Debt Service amounts collected have increased, the overall tax rates have remained fairly consistent during the past five years. For comparison purposes, the average property tax rate (1 percent General Tax plus Debt Service) in the county was 1.09 percent in FY 2012-13 and 1.11 percent in FY 2016-17.

Special charges increased primarily due to increases in sewer and sanitary charges imposed by various local agencies.

The complete Property Tax Highlights publication is available at: http://controller.smcgov. org/2017-pth Other County financial information documents including the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) and Financial Highlights Report are available at www.smcgov.org/controller. ■

THE Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco wishes to inform the Filipino communities in its jurisdiction that it is now accepting nominations for the Year 2018 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas.

The Presidential Awards are being organized by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) in partnership with the Philippine Embassies and Consulates General around the world to recognize the exemplary achievements and significant role of overseas Filipinos in national development.

The Presidential Awards highlight the time-honored Filipino values of PAKIPAGKAPWA, PAGTUTULUNGAN and PAGKAKAISA. The four (4) award categories are: 1. Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) Award – for overseas Filipino associations or individuals with exceptional or significant contributions to Philippine

reconstruction, progress and development.

2. Kaanib ng Bayan Award – for foreign individuals or organizations with exceptional or significant contributions to Philippine reconstruction, progress and development, &/or have significantly benefited a sector or community in the Philippines, or advanced the cause of overseas Filipino communities.

3. Banaag Award – for overseas Filipino individuals or organizations for their contributions in advancing the cause of &/or have significantly benefited overseas Filipino communities or sectors.

4. Pamana ng Pilipino Award – for overseas Filipinos who have demonstrated the talent and industry of the Filipino and brought honor and recognition to the country through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession.

Download the primer and nomination forms at http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/

JANUARY202018/Primer.pdf.

Deadline Nominations must be submitted through the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco on or before Tuesday, May 15, 2018. Non-submission of required documents may be a cause for disqualification of the nominee.

The Presidential Awards is a biennial search to honor and recognize overseas Filipinos and other individuals or organizations which contribute to Philippine development initiatives, or promote the interests of overseas Filipino communities. The awards are also given to overseas Filipinos who have exceptionally distinguished themselves in their work or profession, and have thereby brought pride to the Filipino nation. A distinct category in the awards is also reserved for foreign individuals or organizations for their exceptional contribution to the Philippines and for advancing the cause of overseas Filipino communities.■

South San Francisco’s Parks and Recreation Department receives competitive statewide award for “Champion of the Community” City awarded by the California Park & Recreation (CPRS) Society

Courtesy photo by sfrecpark.org

THE City of South San Francisco prides itself on the quality of life it offers its residents and that quality of life continues to gain statewide attention.

South San Francisco’s Parks & Recreation Department is the recipient of the competitive Service Award of Excellence - Champion of the Community award, which honors and recognizes individuals or organizations who have contributed significant effort to influence and improve the quality of their community through parks and recreation.

“The California Park & Recreation Society awards program is the highest recognition the City of South San Francisco can receive and the Champion of the Community award is a credit to the staff and volunteers that made this happen. We are honored to receive this award on behalf of our residents,” said South San Francisco City Manager Mike Futrell.

South San Francisco’s Parks and Recreation Department won this award for its program at the Magnolia Senior Center in which students from Skyline College volunteer their time to help seniors with their technology questions, such as cell phones, tablets, and computers. This program stemmed from Skyline College’s Honor Society’s (Beta Theta Omicron) desire to volunteer in South San Francisco. In 2015, the honor society formally started Computer Literacy and Internet Competency for Seniors (CLICS).

“Since CLICS’ inception, I have been amazed at the number of Skyline students who have come to volunteer at our Senior Center,” said Parks and Recreation Director, Sharon Ranals.

“Several times during the year, these students create a positive and meaningful impact for our seniors – it’s beyond words to describe how much this program has helped our seniors.”

Computer Literacy and Internet Competency for Seniors helps seniors catch up with the information age. More importantly, says Ranals, “it enables communication with children and grandchildren. In this age of technology, texting often is the only way to hear from family members.”

CPRS is a membership organization with 3,600 members representing the 535 local parks and recreation agencies throughout the state. The mission of CPRS is to advance the profession and its members through education, networking, resources, and advocacy.

CPRS Executive Director Stephanie Stephens states, “These agencies represent the finest in initiatives addressing community issues, recreation programming, park planning, facility design, and marketing and communications in California.”

The presentation of awards will take place at the annual Awards Recognition Banquet scheduled for Friday, March 16, 2018 in Long Beach, California. ■

LGUs urged to develop own...

PAGE CJ1 t

among LGUs. Plaza earlier said PEZA would embark on an aggressive expansion of public economic zones across the country as part of plans to bring economic development to the countryside.

PEZA is looking at building two new public economic zones per region, or a total of 36 across the country.

Public economic zones are cheaper than private owned economic zones in terms of rent, according to Plaza.

Of the more than 370 PEZAadministered economic zones in the country to date, only four are owned by PEZA while the rest are owned by the private sector.

Existing public economic zones are in Cavite, Mactan, Baguio and Pampanga. ■

Criminal convictions and immigration...

PAGE CJ2 t

empt classes or categories of removable aliens from potential enforcement. Pursuant to the Kelly Memorandum of February 20, 2017, noncitizens are removable if they – (i) have been convicted of any criminal offense; (ii) have been charged with any criminal offense that has not been resolved; (iii) have engaged in fraud or willful misrepresentation in connection with any official matter before a governmental agency; (iv) have abused any program related to receipt of public benefits; (v) are subject to a final order of removal but have not complied with their legal obligation to depart the U.S.; (vi) in the judgment of an immigration officer, otherwise pose a risk to public safety or national security.

Negative Consequences of Criminal Conviction. The Record of Conviction details an individual’s criminal history. More importantly, the relief(s) available to an individual facing deportation will depend largely on that individual’s record of conviction. Thus, even “just a misdemeanor” can make a non-citizen deportable, even if that person is a long-time green card holder and has lived in the United States for 20 years.

Therefore, it is very important to understand that before taking a plea deal, consult with a deportation defense attorney.

No two cases are exactly the same. Consult with an experienced and competent immigration attorney immediately, and more importantly prior to filing any applications with the USCIS, or prior to pleading to anything

in any court, in order to explore their options and possible legal ramifications that they might be facing. *** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 495-8088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys.com.

For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com.

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Friday, February 2, 2018

SF2

cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 2, 2018

Lea SaLonga LauncheS Bahaghari, an aLBum of traditionaL fiLipino SongS Broadway star and Philippine pride Lea Salonga, with the Global Language Project through GLP Music, launched last month at the Philippine Center in New york the album “Bahaghari” which features new recordings and arrangements of Philippine folk songs.

The songs come from different regions of the Philippines and are performed in a variety of Philippine languages from Capampangan, Bicolano, Bisaya, Ilonggo, Ilocano to Tagalog.

Among the popular songs featured include, “Pobreng Alindahaw,” “Tinikling,” “Atin Cu Pung Singsing,” “Ili Ili,” “Pamulinawen,” “Sarung Banggi,” and “Leron Leron Sinta,” among others.

Salonga’s powerful emotional ties and artful interpretation shine on “Bahaghari,” GLP Music’s latest release chronicling the traditional songs of the island nation. Producers tapped a series of young arrangers to craft the right musical settings for Salonga’s powerful voice, including Salonga’s brother, Gerard. They are straightforward, highlighting the songs’ melodies, words, and Salonga’s wonderfully expressive voice.

“This project felt like the perfect opportunity to introduce the languages of my country to a bigger world. A world that might not be aware of the intricacies and differences between these languages,” Salonga says. “As a Tagalog speaker, many of these tongues feel very foreign and strange, and since there’s always a danger that these languages won’t be spoken by future generations, there was a need on our part to preserve them in some way.”

In his remarks at the launch, GLP A & R Music Director Rex Niswander thanked Ms. Salonga for taking part in this latest undertaking of the Global Language Project and expressed the hope that more and more young people would be encouraged

to learn foreign languages and cultures through music.

Representing the Philippine Consulate General at the event, Consul General Theresa DizonDe Vega lauded the entire team behind the project and expressed support for the initiative towards engendering more inclusive and multi-cultural interests among young Filipino-Americans.

Language learning and preservation “Bahaghari” joins GLP Music’s growing catalog. Founded

by Angela Jackson and Rex Niswander, the label aims to deepen connections to language learning and preservation via compelling music.

Jackson came from a background in media and corporate communications, a highly successful career that brought her into collaboration with international colleagues. That work opened her eyes to the importance of new language acquisition and language retention in diaspora. She launched an education nonprofit Global Language Project, which brought language learning to under-resourced schools and learners. Jackson teamed up with Niswander to create musical projects that furthered these same goals.

Through a mutual friend, Jackson and Niswander were introduced to Salonga. The singer agreed to participate in their next project. Jackson was intrigued by the educational and cultural resonances an album of songs in Filipino languages might have. She was struck by the state of many of the country’s languages--Salonga sings in several endangered languages

Ms. Lea Salonga performs two selections from the Bahaghari album

Photos courtesy of Lea Salonga.com

Lea also signed copies of the Bahaghari CD.

on “Bahaghari”—and wanted to find a way to highlight them.

“There is a large Filipino diaspora in the U.S. and around the world. They have very tight ties to their homeland, yet many children in the diaspora don’t learn Tagalog or one of the other languages,” she explains. “We hope this album can become a resource for families and young learners in these communities, inspiring interest in these languages and their wonderful

Photos by NYPCG

Bruno Mars scores big at 2018 Grammys

by Klarize Medenilla AJPress

The 60th annual Grammy awards on Sunday, January 28 proved to be a big night for the multi-talented Bruno Mars, who went home with a whopping six awards, including three wins in the award show’s major categories.

The half-Filipino/half-Puerto rican maestro of nostalgic pop swept the night with his highly-acclaimed third studio album 24K Magic which won the coveted album of the year; and, singles “24K Magic” and “That’s what I Like” won record of the year and Song of the year, respectively.

“I’ve been knowing these guys for over a decade,” Mars said in his speech, referencing the innovative process of pop music production that involves a large collaborative team of specialized writers. “all the music-business horror stories you’ve seen in the movies, we’ve been through all of them.

It’s an honor to share this with you all tonight.”

In addition to the wins in the three major categories, he also took home Best r&B Song and Best r&B Performance for “That’s what I Like” and Best r&B album for 24K Magic.

Lea with Global Language Project A&R Music Director Rex Niswander.

Lea Salonga with Loida Nicolas Lewis and Consul General Tess de Vega.

songs.”

Salonga picked songs that appealed to her, both artistically and personally. Her mother had sung her the delicate “Ili Ili” and several others when she was a child, and came to visit during a recording session. The Tony Award-winning actress and vocalist, used to selling out prestigious venues worldwide, harnessed this connection and dived into the repertoire with heart and grace. At the launch, Salonga sang two selections from the album, “Ili Ili” and “Paruparong Bukid” to the great admiration of those present.

“The spirit behind the project really came from the team, a collective that has deep expertise,” says Jackson. “There’s Lea, whose contribution is central.

Ryan is a leading light in Filipino music and straddles the academic and pop worlds. The album’s designer, Lucille Tenazas, is Filipina, and the liner notes were written by a respected Filipino author, Floy Quintos. They all share a real passion for the country and the language and the culture,” a passion that’s audible on “Bahaghari.”

Cayabyab is a leading composer, arranger, conductor, and film scorer. He has researched his country’s musical traditions, as well as championed new

voices, via a songwriting competition he founded and as a judge on several popular TV talent shows. His deep knowledge of Filipino music proved key to the project.

“I had to choose the most popular folk songs from each region — but there are many to choose from!” he recalls. “The Visayas region has other subregions but I chose one song each from the Cebuano and the Hiligaynon languages. In Mindanao, the main economic and cultural centers either speak Cebuano, Hiligaynon, or Tagalog.”

Capturing the diversity of languages was only one part of the puzzle. Cayabyab also wanted to make the album musically interesting, taking listeners through different moods. “The songs had to be varied in subject, in emotion and in tempo and rhythm,” Cayabyab notes. “The collection could not all be slow songs or only celebratory songs.

We had to have a good representation not only of language but of a variety of subjects and emotions. This would hopefully make for a lovely aural spread.”

“Bahaghari” moves from the sprightly “Leron Leron Sinta” and the playful vocal layers of “Sitsiritsit Alibangbang,” to the gentle sway of “Magtanim Ay Di Biro” and the pensive “Ma-

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

tudnila.”

Diversity also reigned in the arranging process, which Cayabyab handed over to several arrangers and musicians. “I was surprised by his proposal, that six different arrangers and performers each work on a few songs. I was skeptical about it, but it actually worked perfectly,” recalls Niswander.

“For one thing, the arrangers were so good. They were following Ryan’s directions but they each had their own style.” The arrangements revolve around piano and guitar, with gentle percussion, vibes, flute, and other colorful elements to play off Salonga’s rich voice.

That voice is the thread tying “Bahaghari” together. “Because the arrangements were all so different from one another, I needed to stylistically adapt my vocals to fit them while holding on to my own voice and how I sing,” reflects Salonga. “The more playful stuff, like ‘Pobreng Alindahaw,’ was just so much fun to do in the studio, and some of the more dramatic music, like ‘Matudnila,’ was straight from the heart. The melodies are just as informative as the lyrics, so I latched on to them.”

Listeners will as well, forging new connections to these songs and languages. (Momar G. Visaya/AJPress)

Morissette is destined for Hollywood!

by MJ

Marfori ManilaTimes.net

FaNS of the singer Morisette better enjoy the artist performing on home turf while they can because the vocal power house may just be leaving for hollywood real soon!

In the Know has been given the green light to report that Mori is on her way to an international career after Mariah Carey’s producer rhett Lawrence flew into the Philippines over New year just to watch her perform live.

The multi-talented Bruno Mars went home with a whopping six awards, including three wins in the award show’s “Mr. Lawrence discovered major categories at the 60th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, January 28. Photo from Instagram/@brunomars me online when I did a cover social climate regarding gender song with Mr. arnel Pineda for earlier in the night, Mars disparity in the entertainment performed alongside hip-hop wish FM, which was ‘I Fiworld. sweetheart Cardi B for the nally Found Someone.’ he also remix of the swing beat single however on Sunday, Mars watched my ‘Birit Queens’ con“Finesse.”

— who is arguably the most incert in the States,” she humbly Mars’ wins mark the first ternationally popular Filipino of yet excitedly said. time a Filipino-american the generation — hit important The visit came as a shock has won multiple accolades milestones in regards to ethnic for Morisette since the music in the major categories at representation; he was the first bigwig’s arrival was unanthe Grammy awards. Most artist of color in a decade to win nounced. “No one knew he was Morisette Amon with renowned Hollywood music producer Rhett Lawrence.

Photos from Instagram/@itsmorisette recently, Mars — along with album of the year. here over the New year,” she renowned producer Mark Though Mars gained interexclaimed. seum on February 20. excited “he likes me not just ronson — nabbed record of national fame as a soloist less Sitting down with him, as she is for on the prospect of because kaya ko sumipol like the year in 2016 for the catchy than a decade ago in 2010 with Morisette said she appreciates going international, she knows Mariah but because he said I “Uptown Funk.” his debut studio album “doohow Lawrence doesn’t impose well enough to see to the task deliver a song differently.”

The Grammy awards were wops & hooligans,” Mars has a certain style on her, or even at hand first and give it her after Lawrence returned criticized for not awarding received a total 11 Grammy suggest she take a cue from hundred percent—an attitude to the States, Mori got busy enough female artists for the awards so far, the most of any Mariah or another one of his that will surely help her out preparing for her first major major awards, given the current artist of asian descent. famous talents, Kelly Clarkson. when the time comes. concert at Smart araneta Coli-

features SF3 Fall in love with these makeup trends LBC ties up with PAL for Balikbayan Promo 2018 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – February 2, 2018

By Monet

Lu

THIS week we tackle another one of my fortes—and a soughtafter subject for women—the latest makeup trends. I can describe this season’s makeup peg in two words: fresh and minimal.

With that image in mind, I invite you to experience “Valentine’s trends” and fall in love with these makeup styles.

Go easy on the eyes Whoever said that sexy smoky eye is so 90 degrees ago must learn how to carry the classic eyedo with just a teeny bit of flaw.

Allow me to elaborate before I give the impression that carelessly applied shadow is a thing – please…it has never been, never will be. What I meant by a little flaw is how you would do your smoky eye look at home. You know, the kind that gives off an ultra diffused shadow that looks intense while feeling soft. Makeup artist Pat McGrath created this look at Diane von Furstenberg by using a black and brown liner. You can also use gray shadows with just a hint of sparkle to keep it soft enough for daytime.

A bronze shadow is another equally striking-yet-with-an-easy feel. You can maybe give your metallic shadows a break this

Balikbayans get a chance to fly for free through LBC-PAL promo

season by using bronze shadows instead of the classic gold or silver. This type of hue warms up your face and gives you a good reason to put a natural-looking lip color.

Paint outside the lines It’s this time of the year when you feel a bit more adventurous.

It shows on your outfit and your hair, and well, your eye makeup better match that mood. As they say, the eyes are the windows of the soul. And your carefree soul needs an audience! One article writes, “ Tweak the classic cat eye by opting for a more straight across swipe of black kohl like we

saw at Oscar de la Renta. This is a more modern way to wear liner that elongates and lifts the eye and adds intrigue to the face.”

Add more spice to your usual winged liner, by scribbling some double-winged lines. Seventeen. com suggests, “Use a soft kohl pencil to trace your lower waterline, then smudge it out with a makeup sponge for an extremely edgy and perfectly un-perfect vibe.”

Tip of the lashes Close your eyes and think: silver, water droplets, rhinestones.

Continued on Page SF4

TWO of the country’s biggest names in business are working together to bring joy to their loyal customers.

LBC, the leader in “Padala” and Philippine Airlines, Asia’s first airline, have launched the “LBC Moves with PAL Balikbayan Promo” that gives their loyal customers the chance to fly for free.

From February 1 to April 30, 2018, each full rate sea cargo transaction automatically generates one ticket entry. On the Grand Draw on May 5, 2018, one winner will be picked from each of these airports to fly for free to the Philippines: SFO Airport: North California, Washington, Oregon, Illinois. LAX Airport: Southern California, Nevada, Florida. HNL Airport: Hawaii; and, JFK Airport: New York, New Jersey, Virginia. * The names of all four winners will be posted on LBC’s website and Facebook page.

Meanwhile, LBC is also

How they remember Maryo J. delos Reyes

by Ricky Lo Philstar.com

FOR the first time in the many years he had been managing talents (among them the Masculados, Ruru Madrid and Rep. Yul Servo), director Maryo J. delos Reyes treated the movie press to a grand Christmas party last year at the sprawling garden of Annabel’s restaurant, highlighted by a raffle of prizes and other attractions.

Last Wednesday, January 24, two days before he flew to Dipolog City, Maryo hosted a belated New Year party for those close to him and gave each of them a memorable gift: An angel with a cut knee to his manager June TorrejonRufino (who collects angels and anything related to it), a small tray for GMA executive Lilybeth

Direk Maryo J. delos Reyes

Vilma Santos

Rasonable, a Daily Bread book for balikbayan friend Dante Dizon; also a book for Honey Tirona (sister of Maryo’s dear friend, scriptwriter Jake Tordesillas who died in June last year); and a figurine from Russia to writer Senedy Que. Until Maryo died of two massive heart attacks last Saturday night, January 27, while dancing

ALbert Martinez

at a friend’s birthday party at a Dakak Resort in Dipolog City, those two events were nothing unusual to Maryo’s friends, except that, when they recall now, he was extra nice and treated everybody in a special way.

“Since July last year,” June told Funfare, “Jake’s close friends would get together once a month to reminisce

Gabby Concepcion Inquirer.net photos

about shared fond memories and to give emotional support to Maryo who and not quite recovered from the death of Jake with whom he lived for 45 years. Jake’s death left Maryo devastated.

“Before our party broke up, Maryo told us that he went through Jake’s personal items Continued on Page SF4

offering $5.00 OFF for SEA CARGO shipments to all PAL passengers. All they need to do to redeem the discount is show a used boarding pass at their nearest LBC branch between February 1 to April 30, 2018.

JV Valino, Sales & Marketing Specialist of LBC New York and New Jersey, enthused: “We are excited to collaborate with PAL who share the same values as ours. We both strive to serve our customers better every single time, especially those who have stayed loyal to us all these years. This promo is our way of showing them our appreciation”.

For complete details of the LBC-PAL promo, visit the LBC website or inquire with an LBC representative at a branch nearest you. *Travel tax may apply.

LBC LBC is the Philippines’ market leader in retail and corporate courier & cargo, money

remittance, and logistics services. With a growing network of over 6,400 branches, hubs & warehouses, partners, and agents in over 30 countries, LBC is committed to moving lives, businesses, and communities and delivering smiles around the world. Listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange through LBC Express Holdings, Inc., LBC aims to deliver value to all of its stakeholders, as it has for over 60 years.

Founded in 1945 as a brokerage and air cargo agent, LBC pioneered time-sensitive cargo delivery and 24-hour door-todoor delivery in the Philippines. Today, it is the most trusted logistics brand of the Global Filipino. LBC can move it for you: visit www.LBCexpress.com, or call telephone +632 8585 999 (Metro Manila), 1 800 10 8585 999 (Provincial), +632 9086 522 (Solutions) and follow LBCExpress (Facebook and Twitter).

(Advertising Supplement)

SF4

celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 2, 2018

celebrity world

By Ferdie Villar

INTErNATIONALLy known Filipina stage actress and singer Lea Salonga will celebrate her 47th birthday on February 22.

Lea made international news when she was chosen as the lead role of Kim in the musical “Miss Saigon,” for which she won an Olivier, Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics and Theatre World awards. She is also the first Filipino artist to sign with an international record label, Atlantic records).

The actress was the first Asian to play the roles of Eponine and Fantine in the musical “Les Miserables on Broadway. She portrayed both roles on the musical’s 10th and 25th anniversary show in London.

She also provided the singing voice of two official Disney Princesses: Jasmine in “Aladdin” (1992), and Fa Mulan in “Mulan” (1998) and “Mulan II” (2004). Lea was named a Disney Legend in 2011 for her work with the Walt Disney Company.

Other prominent personalities celebrating their birthdays this February are: February 1 - Famous Filipino hairstylist and make-up artist Fanny Serrano; February 2 -Kaiser Permanente Hospital-South San Francisco nurse Alma Bernabe roxas; February 3 - ABS-CBN 2 Managing Director for Star Cinema Malou Santos; February 4 - ABS-CBN

Senior Vice President and Star Magic talent manager Johnny Manahan; February 5 - Concert King Martin Nievera, and GMA 7 actor Luis Alandy; February 6 - LuzViMin of the Bay Area president Ora Seyler, actor Eddie Gutierrez, and entertainment produceractress Daisy romualdez; February 7 - Former Mr. rPUSA Willard Torres of Hayward; February 8 - Gilroy Filipino doctor John Gabordo; February 9 - GMA 7 actress Heart Evangelista, and Star Cinema actor-dancer John Prats; February 10 - Antioch homecare administrator Anthony Perez, ballroom dancer Jose “Joe” de Guzman, and former medical assistant ricky Umali; February 11 - Multi-awarded actress Lovi Poe, and actress-TV host Jackielou Blanco; February 13 - Daly City real estate broker Lita Celimen; February 14 - Queen of All Media and TV host Kris Aquino, Mr. Total Entertainer rico J. Puno, and actress roxanne Guinoo; February 15 - PBA basketball star James yap; February 17 - Actress-TV co-host Anne Curtis; February 18 - Hollywood stage actress and commercial model Glenda Kennedy, and TV host Bernadette Sembrano; February 20 - Actress Christine reyes; February 21 - Filipino-

Broadway star and Disney Legend awardee Lea Salonga heads February celebrants

Internationally known Brodway star Lea Salonga heads the list of personalities celebrating their birthdays this month of February.

American business executive Sean rennock; February 22 - TV5 Vice President of Entertainment Wilma Galvante; February 23 - real estate agent ramon “Monching” Bunag; February 25 - The late Fashion Czar of Asian Jose “Pitoy” Moreno; February 26 - Actress Assunta de rossi, veteran actress Chanda romero, equestrienne Mikee Cojuangco Jaworski; February 27 - World-renowned recording star Josh Groban, well liked dentist and singing tenor the late Dr. Narciso “Tito” yusi, Alameda religious-civic leader Bernadette Munoz roco, and Navy pilot Michael Back; February 29 - San Francisco

The Lewis Legacy continues as ‘Pioneers: Reginald F. Lewis and the Making of a Billion Dollar Empire’ airs this February on PBS Airs Friday, February 16 at 8pm on WLIW21 Sunday, February 18 at 7:30pm on THIRTEEN Saturday, February 24 at 7pm on NJTV NEW yOrK, New york – This February (Black History Month), PBS will be airing Pioneers: reginald F. Lewis and the Making of a Billion Dollar Empire, which chronicles the life and legacy of business pioneer, philanthropist and titan reginald F. Lewis, who was a

Harvard Law School graduate, venture capitalist, and leader of the global food company TLC Beatrice International.

Lewis was the first American ever to close an overseas billion dollar leveraged buyout deal. He acquired an unprecedented global conglomerate of

Reginald F. Lewis

Reginald and Loida Lewis with daaughters Leslie and Christina in Paris

Reginald F. Lewis and Loida Nicolas Lewis celebrate RFL’s mom’s Carolyn Fuggett’s birthday

64 companies in 31 countries, and paved the way for future entrepreneurs and black leaders through his life’s work until his untimely death at age 50.

Lewis is also known as the late husband of Loida Nicolas Lewis, a Filipino American immigration lawyer, businesswoman and civic leader. “reginald Lewis was a pioneer because he executed the $1 billion buyout of Beatrice International Foods.

No one had done anything of that magnitude before. He was the first American to successfully negotiate a billion dollar overseas leverage buyout,” says Mrs. Lewis.

Additional high praise from Kenneth Chenault, Chairman and CEO of American Express notes, “There is no doubt that reginald Lewis’ success paved the way for me, and many others, and I think that really is the test and demonstration of real leadership.” reginald F. Lewis rose to prominence as a lawyer, human rights activist, venture capitalist, and then as the first African American to build a billion-dollar business empire.

Discover his legacy by watching Pioneers: reginald F. Lewis and the Making of a Billion Dollar Empire on these PBS affiliates: - Friday, February 16, 8:00pm WLIW21 - Sunday, February 18, 7:30pm THIrTEEN - Saturday, February 24, 7:00pm NJTV - Available for streaming Nationally at thirteen.org after Feb 18th More about Reginald F. Lewis • First to seriously consider the purchase of Paramount Pictures • First American billion-dollar dealmaker • Founded the first African American Law Firm on Wall Street • First to be accepted at Harvard University Law School without applying • Among the first 5 African Americans to have museums named after them • At $985 MM, the deal was the largest offshore leveraged buyout ever by an American company.

Concert King Martin Nievera, who will have his solo concert in Hawaii on Valentine’s Day, will celebrate his birthday on February 5.

Mr. Total Entertainer Rico J. Puno will celebrate his birthday on Valentine’s Day.

Beautiful actress Lovi Poe of GMA 7 will celebrate her birthday on February 11.

Alameda religious and civic leader Bernadette Munoz Roco will celebrate her birthday on February 27.

Michael Back of San Jose will celebrate his birthday on February 27.

Hollywood stage actress and commercial model Glenda Kennedy will celebrate her birthday on February 18.

community leader Jun Jun Villegas.

To all celebrants happy, happy birthday and to all

my readers advanced Happy Valentine’s Day!

Fall in love with these makeup...

From Page SF3 Now open your eyes and give your volumizing mascara, falsies and lash add-ons a much-needed upgrade. It’s time those lashes shine as bright as your eyes!

Silver sparkles on the tip of the lashes give your eyelashes a water droplet effect. A bit of gold layers on the lashes will make it look like it has rhinestones tips. Bring on the prettiest lashes by layering, lengthening, or volumizing your top and bottom lashes.

Rush that blush Now is the perfect time to embrace your “just stepped out of the gym” look. Or for some people; “I just went on a brisk, wintry walk.” This is the season for flushed cheeks and naturally

rosy blush. you had a good run with your sculpting tools, it’s time to give them a break. Grab your warm peach blush powder and head out the door. That’s all you need. Now, fly.

Lips like berry Let’s talk about that lip color, shall we? This season, I am delighted to see a sea of lip colors that remind of the ‘90s.

That almost black but not quite is making a comeback and I LOVE it! From ripe berry to plum black to oxblood red, they are undeniably luscious. It may sound scary but I dare you to rock a dark lipstick! Nude is out. Let’s make way for the plums, magentas and berries.

As the season of love and Val-

entine’s Day approach, it’s about “wearing” the best, romantic looks. Although the weather isn’t as cool as we usually expect it to be around this time, it is best to plan your ensemble ahead – and stock up on the latest makeup finds. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

How they remember Maryo J...

From Page SF3 and decided to give a memento to each one in the room.”

Maryo’s driver has a story to tell.

“Sir Maryo was crying all the time. Pag sinusundo ko siya sa bahay niya (at Filinvest Village in Quezon City), nakikita ko siyang umiiyak at umiiyak pa rin siya pag hinahatid ko na sa bahay.”

Maryo’s untimely passing at age 65 (he would have turned 66 on Oct. 17) shocked the industry that loved him dearly, especially actors who have worked with him.

• Albert Martinez (directed

by Maryo in “Linlang” and “Magnifico” and in the teleserye “Habang Kapiling Ka”): Another pillar of the industry gone too soon…

• Gabby Concepcion: I did so many movies with him, one of them the comedy-drama “Pepe en Pilar” with Maricel (Soriano) in California, USA. It was in December. I did not feel I was working because we had so much fun, especially between takes. We were laughing all the way. His death came as a big shock to me because I was scheduled to start shooting a movie with him in March.

• Maricel Soriano: When we were shooting “Pepe en Pilar,” I had to learn how to dance the “La Cucaracha” and how to speak Spanish in some scenes.

Direk Maryo would watch me and couldn’t stop laughing. His laughter was contagious. Every time we worked together, we always had a heart-to-heart talk about our lives. Those are the times that I remember fondly about direk Maryo. (Maricel did 11 movies with Maryo: “Schoolgirls,” 1982; “Ang Boyfriend Kong Kano,” 1983; “Minsan May Isang Ina,” 1983; “Pepe en Pilar,” 1983; “Saan Darating ang Umaga,” 1984; “Kaya Kong Abutin ang Langit;” “Anak ni

Waray, Anak ni Biday,” 1984; “Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang,” 1984; “Stupid Cupid,” 1988; “Dinampot Ka Lang sa Lusak,” 1991; and “A Love Story,” 2006.)

• Aga Muhlach: Working with Maryo was life-changing.

I practically grew up under his guidance. I was a teenager when he directed me in Bagets.

That was the time I was going through growing-up pains. In the early ‘80s, medyo nag-rebelde ako. That was the time he directed me in “Joey Boy Munti,” a heavy drama, followed by “Avel Morado” and “Sinungaling Mong Puso.” Parati siyang naka-alalay sa akin. Many years later, after I lost weight, we worked together again in “A Love Story.” Maryo was tatay-tatayan ng lahat; maalaga sa mga artista. I was telling him that in the next two years, gusto ko uli gumawa kami ng pelikula… And now, he’s gone. I was in bed early Sunday morning when Lea (Salonga) told me about Maryo’s passing, from New york (where Lea is starring in the musical “On This Island”). I said, “Oh my God, it hurts, it really hurts so badly!!!”

• Vilma Santos: Sad! I was on leave from work for more than a week kasi I had an attack of vertigo. Check-up muna din ako.

Anyway, nabigla ako sa pagkawala ni Maryo. I enjoyed our working relationship. Sa kanya ako nakaranas ng nag-iisang workshop sa buhay ko bilang artista para sa movie na “Tagos ng Dugo” kasi puro lalaki ang leading men ko at pito sila.

“Sinungaling Mong Puso” with Aga was also my favorite because Mother Lily gave me a bonus when the movie made a lot of money. It has been a while since I last saw him but I will definitely miss him kasi napakagaling niya hindi lang bilang director kundi bilang tao. Clan-

nish din siya. Mahal niya at halos permanente ang grupo niya sa showbiz. In spite of his status as a great filmmaker, napakahumble niya. I will miss him.

• Gloria romero: Napakasakit, napakalungkot! Mahilig kumain si Maryo. He was so mabait that many people would send him food on the set. He didn’t want to eat alone. He would invite us to his tent to share his food. He would always bring me pasalubong kahit saan siya galing. I would tell him, “Ang sweet mo naman!” The last time I saw him was at Jake’s wake.

He was a perfectionist. Hindi puede sa kanya ang puede na, okey na. Pinipiga talaga niya ang mga artista niya. He never got tired training new talents.

He didn’t want fake tears, so in drama scenes he would encourage his actors to shed real tears. He was also a jolly person, especially between takes.

I remember when Nida (Blanca) and I were shooting “Waray vs. Biday.” In the scene, manganganak na ako at isasakay ako sa kalesa kasi walang taksi.

The horse was thin, payat na payat, so I was nervous. True enough, during the shoot, nagcollapse ang pobreng kabayo at munti na akong mahulog! Tawa kami nang tawa ni Nida!

• Charo Santos-Concio: I starred in High School Circa ’65, his first directorial job, with Eddie rodriguez, Liza Lorena and roderick Paulate; and in the epic drama “Hindi Mo Ako Kayang Tapakan.” Maryo J. was a very collaborative director who loved to engage his actors in conversations about people and life. He valued the opinion of his actors and creative team, thus helping create a more textured picture of the frailties of humanity. He did not think that world of himself, always ready to listen; he was kind and humble. I will miss a dear friend!

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 2, 2018

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The Asian Jo ur na l SF M A G A Z I NE - Februa ry 2 , 2 0 1 8

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