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Volume 11 – Issue 31 • 16 Pages
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DATELINE ‘I felt like a prisoner’: A human trafficking victim-turned-advocate shares her story FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Pres. Duterte: PH will not give up West Philippine Sea rights by RITCHEL
MENDIOLA AJPress
Annual ‘modern slavery’ summit highlights illegal recruitment, hospitality worker trafficking
FILIPINOS around the world are all sure of one thing about the motherland: the economic status of the country is less than ideal. In fact, the economic decline of the Philippines can be traced back to the 1970s when scarcity of employment opportunities forced Filipinos to search for employment overseas in order to provide for the family back home. Although the prospect of finding a job overseas may seem ideal, many people have been duped into the business of human trafficking. Human trafficking, as defined by the United Nations, includes the “recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of persons by improper means (such as force, abduction, fraud, or coercion) for an improper purpose including forced labor or sexual exploitation.” Moreover, those who
14 senators ask SC to review Sereno ruling
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Secretary Bong Go of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President and President Rodrigo Duterte’s son, Sebastian, ride jet skis as they take a tour around the Casiguran Sound during the Philippine Rise commemoration on Tuesday, May 15. Malacañang photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.
AS the Asian American population continues to boom in the United States, so is their buying power, says a new report. Its young millennial generation is also making big moves. Released last Tuesday, May 8, a Nielsen report titled “Asian Americans: Digital Lives and Growing Influence” found that as the fastest growing ethnic group in the U.S., Asian Americans have seen their consumer buying power grow up to $986 billion — up 257 percent since 2000, compared to 97 percent for the total U.S. It’s projected to reach $1.3 trillion by 2022. This comes as the Asian American population also continues to grow at a faster rate than the general U.S. population, while maintaining education and income rates higher than any other racial ethnic group. Asians currently represent seven percent
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THE Philippines is not giving up its sovereignty rights in the West Philippine Sea, President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday, May 15. “We are not giving up our rights in the West Philippine Sea. As a matter of fact, we are still insisting until now,” he said on board BRP Davao del Sur in Casiguran Bay, Aurora to send-off 50 Filipino scientists
to the Philippine Rise, formerly Benham Rise. In accordance with the laws on the preservation of marine life, commercial fishing would be allowed at Philippine Rise, said Duterte. Northern Luzon Command spokesman Lt. Col. Isagani Nato said members of Nolcom’s Area Task Force North would sail to the shallowest portion of Philippine Rise to set up a maritime marker in the area. BRP Tarlac, the Navy’s landing
dock ship, is being deployed to the region for the buoy’s casting. It will be located right over the underwater Philippine flag placed by military and civilian divers last year. Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asia and the Pacific W. Patrick Murphy and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Enrique Manalo met Tuesday to discuss recent events in the South China Sea as well as the ties between the
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by LEILA
SALAVERRIA Inquirer.net
A MAJORITY of the senators have banded together to ask the Supreme Court to review its decision to unseat Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno through a quo warranto petition and defend the Senate’s jurisdiction over impeachable officials.
The growing Asian American population is also growing in buying power, report finds Its millennial generation is also growing in influence
Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
INDEPENDENCE LOST? Ousted Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno talks to her supporters after her colleagues in the Supreme Court kicked her out on Friday, May 11. Inquirer.net photo by Joan Bondoc
FLAG RAISING AT PHILIPPINE RISE. The crew and government officials form a triangle in preparation for flag raising ceremony at the Philippine Rise on board the BRP Davao Del Sur off the coast of Casiguran in Aurora province on Wednesday, May 16. On Tuesday, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the two-day Philippine Rise Commemoration Activity that includes the casting of the first buoy and the laying of a flag at the shallowest point of the Philippine Bank and send-off ceremony for an all-Filipino marine scientists team that will conduct a one-month scientific research in the area. PNA photo by Oliver Marquez
Overseas Filipino voters now number 1.6M – DFA by ANTHONY
Q. ESGUERRA
Inquirer.net
THE number of Filipinos who will vote overseas at 2019 national elections has reached 1,600,746, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Tuesday, May 15. According to the DFA-Overseas Voting Secretariat, the number has surpassed the previous record of 1,376,067 for the 2016 national elections when President Rodrigo Duterte won. “Sa mga kababayan natin abroad, huwag niyo pong kalimutang magparehistro para sa overseas voting. Pantay-pantay ang karapatan natin: lahat tayo ay may isang boto at tayo ang pumipili ng mga namumuno,” Foreign
Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said. At the present rate, overseas voters’ registration is expected to reach 1.9 million. The following are the basic qualification for overseas voting: • At least 18 years old on May 13, 2019 • Expected to be abroad from April 13 to May 13, 2019 Not disqualified by law Filipinos abroad may register as an overseas voter at any Philippine embassy or foreign service post, including three Manila Economic and Cultural Offices in Taiwan. The deadline for registration is Sept. 30, 2018. For more information about overseas voting, visit www.dfa-oavs.gov.ph or www. comelec.gov.ph. ■
Puyat gets warm welcome at DOT MANILA — A mood of renewed hope and confidence filled the main offices of the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Belair, Makati City as some 500 employees warmly welcomed newly-appointed DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat on her first day at the helm. Puyat took her oath of office administered by President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, May 14, her 49th birthday, replacing former DOT head Wanda Corazon Teo, Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat was warmly welcomed by DOT employees when she personally who resigned a week ago. made the rounds at the DOT office in Makati City on Tuesday, May 15. In a media briefing before AJPress photo by Godwin Josef Gasacao
‘Philippine Tapestry’ goes to Philadelphia Rain-soaked fashion show at City Hall highlights Filipino fashion, culture by MOMAR
G. VISAYA
The Mayor’s Commission on Asian American Affairs INTERMITTENT rains and in- (MCAAA) partnered with the clement weather did not dampen Philippine Department of Tourthe spirits of guests and commu- ism to host the fashion show nity members who trooped to the featuring the work and design Philadelphia City Hall Courtyard of world-class fashion designer on Wednesday, May 16 to attend Renee Salud. the Pennsylvania leg of the PhilJohn Chin, Executive Director ippine Tapestry Fashion Show. u PAGE A2 AJPress
touring the DOT premises, Puyat lauded the enthusiasm shown by employees, including some familiar faces who she had worked with on inter-agency projects like the international culinary even Madrid Fusion Manila. “I have always enjoyed working with the DOT whom I’ve known for competence and professionalism, particularly career employees. I expect no less than that plus hard work. Trabaho lang,” said the former undersecretary of the #PHLWelcomesPH. Philadelphia Mayor James Kenney with Acting Head of Post Kerwin Tate Department of Agriculture. and Consul Arman Talbo of the Philippine Consulate General in New York and Tourism Attaché
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Susan del Mundo.
Photo by Boyet Loverita
A May 18-24, 2018 • NEW yORK aND NEW JERSEy aSIaN JOURNaL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426
From the Front Page
Pres. Duterte: PH will not give up... PAGE A1
Philippines and U.S. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a Malacañang briefing that the Philippines has not surrendered its rights over the Spratly Islands and other areas within the country’s exclusive economic zone despite China’s deployment of its first entirely home-built aircraft carrier in the area. “We’ve always been putting
down our feet. We have not surrendered our title, we have not relinquished our title. We maintain we have title,” Roque said. He also defended Duterte’s presence at Philippine Rise when the disputes are actually in the South China Sea. “While we may not be able to do anything as far as their military maneuvers are concerned, we continue to resort
to diplomatic initiatives and I assure you that while we are not noisy at it, any development that happens, it is also accompanied by diplomatic steps by the Department of Foreign Affairs,” Roque said. China deployed its first homebuilt aircraft carrier in the northern port of Dalian on Sunday, May 13, “to test the reliability and stability of its repulsion and other system.” n
‘Philippine Tapestry’ goes to... PAGE A1 of Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation and Chair of the Commission welcomed the guests to the evening’s festivities and introduced Philadelphia’s Mayor James Kenney who delivered a short speech. Mayor Kenney welcomed the guests to the event and thanked them for being “so strong and hardy to be out on this weather.” “You’re all troopers!,” Mayor Kenney said as he talked about the collaboration between the city and the Philippine Department of Tourism and how this event was also held in celebration of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. “We welcome the cross-cultural exchange that promotes a deeper understanding between Philadelphia and the Philippines.” The mayor also said that the Filipino community’s population in Philadelphia is growing as he took the opportunity to thank them for helping enrich the cultural fabric of the city and for their contributions to Philadelphia’s progress. Mayor Kenney then presented ceremonial Liberty Bells to Minister Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga, representing Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, and Renee Salud. The show featured various facets of Filipino heritage through indigenous fabrics and weaves of major regions of the country. “This one is definitely for the books and is on my list of the most challenging fashions shows we have staged ever,” a smiling Renee Salud told us backstage. “And this is why you work with professional models who are trained properly and who know
AIDS PREVENTION. Senator Risa Hontiveros, together with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) advocates graces the photo exhibit at the Senate hallway in Pasay City on Tuesday, May 15, to support the passage of the HIV bill. The bill aims to strengthen the Philippine Comprehensive Policy on HIV and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Prevention, Treatment, Care, and Support, and to Establish the Philippine National Aids Council (PNAC), Repealing for the Purpose of Republic Act No. 8504, otherwise known as the ‘Philippine Aids Prevention and Control Act of 1998’. PNA photo by Avito Dalan
14 senators ask SC to review... PAGE A1
ABC6 Philadelphia reporter Christie Ileto posted this photo on her Instagram account with the caption “I’m walking too! (Sike) #ModelBehavior #PHLWelcomesPH” Photo from Instagram@Christie_Ileto
how to react (when) given these difficult situations.” It has been raining intermittently in the city since Tuesday and according to forecast, there was about 60 to 70 percent chance of rain on Wednesday afternoon, leading up to the outdoor event. Tents were put up over the stage and the runway on Wednesday morning, along with the VIP area for the reception prior to the show. Everything was held in the courtyard of the Philadelphia City Hall. “In spite of the rain, the Philippine Tapestry Fashion Show was a huge success! Our local Filipino community came together and was extremely proud of this moment. We had a strong turnout from the Filipino community with the embassy and consulate also supporting,” said Brad Bal-
dia, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce of PA & Southern NJ. “I was so proud to see such a major production of the Philippines supported by the city.” Baldia, a member of PA Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs said he appreciates the efforts poured into the event, held in the city hall’s grand courtyard, no less. “From stunning backdrops of the Philippines, gorgeous clothing designs with dancers and moving music, it was great for myself and other Filipinos in the Greater Philadelphia area to see the very best of the Philippines and share it with the mainstream,” he shared. Parts of the stage were wet and there were disruptions in
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Fourteen of the 23 senators have signed a resolution requesting the Supreme Court to review its May 11 ruling, and Sen. Risa Hontiveros has urged more of her colleagues to join them. “The Senate has the duty and responsibility to formally communicate with the Supreme Court and ask it to review its decision and restore balance among the different coequal branches of the government,” Hontiveros, one of the signatories to the resolution, said in a statement. The other 13 senators who signed the resolution were Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, Franklin Drilon, Francis Pangilinan, Antonio Trillanes IV, Leila de Lima, Bam Aquino, Ralph Recto, Francis Escudero, Sherwin Gatchalian, Joel Villan-
ueva, Grace Poe, Sonny Angara and Loren Legarda. A source said other senators may sign the resolution. Citing the Constitution, the resolution says the Senate has “the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment.” It says the Supreme Court decision “sets a dangerous precedent that transgresses the exclusive powers of the legislative branch to initiate, try, and decide all cases of impeachment.” Legal groups have condemned the Supreme Court’s 8-6 decision granting Solicitor General Jose Calida’s quo warranto petition to invalidate the 2012 appointment of Sereno, the Philippines’ first female Chief Justice, who is facing an impeachment bid in the House of Representatives.
The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers said the ruling robbed the House of its power to impeach Sereno and the Senate to try and convict the Chief Justice, powers set in the 1987 Constitution. “We cannot issue strong statements on this travesty of the inviolability of the Constitution, yet to back it up with decisive action. We must not allow the Senate to be relegated to a hollow institution howling ineffectually at the margins,” Hontiveros said. “This is not about the Chief Justice and the accusations lodged against her. This is about safeguarding the integrity of our democratic institutions, diffusing the tension among the different branches of government and preventing a constitutional crisis,” she said. n
Puyat gets warm welcome...
Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat
PAGE A1 Puyat was handpicked by Duterte immediately after accepting Teo’s resignation over the controversy over a P60 million DOT ad placement in the latter’s brother Ben Tulfo’s television show “Kilos Pronto.” The new DOT chief vowed to stop graft and corrupt practices by reviewing all the agency’s transactions with the help of her lawyers, reiterating that is the marching
order she received from the president. “I will review everything, including past contracts, and read every line with in them,” stressed the 12-year veteran civil servant. In this connection, Puyat also asked the courtesy resignation of the undersecretaries and assistant secretaries before she tackles the DOT programs and projects with them. n
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‘I felt like a prisoner’: A human... PAGE A1
Former Senate President Edgardo Angara with U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim Photo courtesy of the U.S. embassy in Manila
US envoy Sung Kim mourns Angara’s death by Anthony
Q. EsguErrA
cation,” Kim said in a tweet. Many of his colleagues at the U.S. Ambassador to the Philip- Senate and the government repines Sung Kim on Monday, May garded Angara as a champion of 14, joined the nation in mourn- education and agriculture. ing the death of former Senate Angara briefly served as spepresident Edgardo J. Angara. cial envoy to the European Union Angara passed away on Sun- under the administration of Presday, May 13, at his Tagaytay rest ident Rodrigo Duterte. house. The Fulbright program is one “My thoughts are with the of the premiere scholarship and family of Senator Edgardo J. An- exchange programs that send gara, who helped foster U.S.-PH Filipinos to study in the U.S. ties through the creation of the The agriculture scholarship Fulbright-Philippine Agriculture program seeks to develop leadScholarship Program and left a ers in modernizing agriculture lasting legacy in Philippine edu- and fisheries. n Inquirer.net
The growing Asian American... PAGE A1 of the total U.S. population, with a population of 21.8 million. The Nielsen report cites immigration as having fueled the rapid growth. Further breaking up consumer spending among Asian Americans, the report found that Asian Americans in California spent the most in 2017 at $323 billion. Following states were New York at $88 billion, and Texas at $78 billion. It also explored how Asian Americans — differing greatly amongst themselves by country of origin — also differentiate in terms of generation. The average age of Asian Americans in the U.S. is 35 years old, according to the report. Those aged 18 to 34 are further “very demographically different from their 35 and older counterparts.” Tech and media savvy millennial generation More specifically, the report cites the younger generation as being one of the main reasons the ethnic group has evolved into leaders “in everything from technology usage and media consumption, to e-commerce.” Comparable to the general population, Asian Americans have a “voracious appetite for cutting-edge technology,” wrote the authors. This, they added, makes them attractive to marketers building a digital consumer base. The report said that Asian Americans are “extremely engaged with technology” and typically over-index against their non-Hispanic White peers, while attributing the engagement to be perhaps enabled by their above average income and education attainment, or influenced by the fact that many Asian countries are technologically advanced. The report referred to the successes of Asian tech companies like Samsung, Sony, and LG. It also said that the majority (61 percent) of Asian Americans said they preferred products that had the latest in new technology (over-indexing by 17 percent). Thirty-five percent agreed that they were among the first of their friends and colleagues to try new tech products, and like having a lot of gadgets — over-indexing by 37 percent and 26 percent, respectively. “Asian Americans take pride in finding the latest digital gadgets and showing them off to friends and family,” wrote the authors. When it comes to consuming media, the report said that Asian Americans are becoming the earliest adopters of new ways to view content, “outpacing the total population with regard to penetration across some of the newest technologies.” Asian American millennials — the report found — spend most of their digital time (51 percent) on the internet for activities like watching videos, and apps on a smartphone — again more than that of other generations. Compared to a year earlier, Asian Americans of all age groups were found to be spending less time watching live and DVR TV. They were also spending less time browsing the web on their computers, instead opting for smartphones or using their computer for videos. And as Asian Americans lead in incorporating digital devices into their daily routines, the report found that most of them also choose to do their shopping online. The average amount spent by Asian Americans on online purchases in the last 12
months was $1,151 — 20 percent higher than that of their non-Hispanic White counterparts. Asian Americans additionally over-indexed in all dollar categories over $500 and $1,000 or more for online purchases in the last 12 months — up from numbers in 2013. Top items purchased online from most to least were clothing or accessories, airline tickets, books, other travel reservations, health and beauty items, movie tickets, groceries, and consumer electronics. Growing influencers Asian Americans have also increasingly been building their own successful careers — creating their own powerful brands as content creators and social media influencers. This has been in part due to the democratization of media. “We are seeing Asian Americans rising as trendsetters and leaders in business, sports, fashion, food, and entertainment,” said Mariko Carpenter, vice president of Strategic Community Alliances at Nielsen. According to the report, Asian Americans have especially had an immense impact of the nation’s food scene, especially in the last 15 years. This is true both in the kitchen and online. “Asian-American restaurants are booming across the country, with Filipino food, fast-casual Indian and upscale Korean representing the latest dining out trends,” wrote the authors, which tracing the rise back to Korean-American chef David Chang’s Momofuku Noodle Bar which opened in New York in 2004. Differentiating from that of 1990 Asian fusion cuisines, the report described the newer wave of Asian American contemporary cuisine as being a “new flavor language spoken well only be those fluently ambicultural.” Online, Asian American food personalities have also found success such as Girl Eat World, NomNom Pale, My Name is Yeh, My Korean Kitchen, Damn Delicious, Kawaling Pinoy, and Angel Wong’s Kitchen — all who the report said are influencing the U.S. food scene. “Food blogging seems to be a natural fit for the culture,” wrote the authors. They added that Asian Americans also over-index non-Hispanic Whites by 51 percent for reading restaurant reviews, and by a whopping 124 percent for using Yelp. They’re also 92 percent more likely than non-Hispanic Whites to read or contribute to blogs. Many Asian American food bloggers have also brought their influence further with cookbooks, TV shows, product endorsements, and food magazine contributions. “Authenticity” is what gives Asian Americans big followings, according to the report. “Their recipes, though influenced by their life and experience as Americans, are in fact authentically Asian — Asian American, that is,” wrote the authors. “U.S. audiences are eating them up, literally.” But it isn’t just food bloggers rising in influence. The report took note of the rise of social media personalities like YouTube stars Lilly Singh, Ryan Higa, Michelle Phan, Freddie Wong, and Markiplier who have built their own careers and expanded into other media platforms and channels. The authors also pointed to the changing face of sports and
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are trafficked are often lured with the oft-false promise of high pay and quality work conditions when, in fact, they are often underpaid and even abused and left with little to no freedom or knowledge to get themselves out of the situation. The Mission to End Modern Slavery (MEMS) initiative highlights current trends of and ways in which to combat modern slavery with a focus on illegal recruitment in forced labor. Through the participation of an alliance of mostly Filipino anti-trafficking organizations like Migrante International, the MEMS holds a survivor-led summit every year to raise awareness for the plight of the hundreds of thousands of trafficking victims around the world. “The problem [of human trafficking] is invisible because it’s so normalized. And we don’t see it as an oppressive system,” BAYAN USA Chairperson Bernadette Ellorin said at the 2018 MEMS summit held at the Cathedral Center for St. Paul in Los Angeles on Saturday, May 12. “In many cases [trafficking victims] have been shamed by communities and been told to suck it up and that what happened to them wasn’t trafficking, and, in many cases, survivors have been manipulated and when they turn to legal experts or even consulates to remedy the situation, they are often turned away. They were legitimately enslaved. They were legitimately trafficked into this country and they are fighting back by sharing their stories.” In 2013, Fritzie Corral, a mar-
ried mother of four, needed a new job and a friend had notified her of a recruitment agency called Northwest Placement USA, Inc. (NWPI), which describes itself on its website as a high-quality “foreign labor staffing solution, providing top quality seasonal employees in the hospitality/hotel industry, construction and landscaping fields.” Excited by the prospect of having a job, she met with a recruiter in Manila who told her to obtain a B1 visa, which grants temporary entrance into the U.S. for workers. She was told she had to obtain it on her own, so she paid all the necessary fees. The first distressing sign that things weren’t what they were advertised as was when they allegedly forced her to pay a $3000 placement fee. “They would not set my departure if I [didn’t] comply with that [payment],” Corral shared with the Asian Journal at the MEMS summit. “So I didn’t have a choice because I already had my work visa and I was so excited to go to the U.S.!” However, Corral didn’t know at the time that the Philippine office of NWPI was ordered to shut down by the Philippine government for illegal practices — including charging excessive placement fees — just the year before. However, because that government order was “executory”, NWPI was still allowed to operate as a business. Within a few months, Corral eventually made it to the U.S., in Sidney, Montana, where she was to work as a housekeeper at a Best Western hotel. She said
Victims of labor trafficking share their experiences at the 2018 Mission to End Modern Slavery summit at the Cathedral Center of St. Paul in Echo Park, Los Angeles, CA: (L-R) Noel Abalos, Adelaida Legaspi, Fritzie Corral and Daniel Castellanos AJPress photo by Klarize Medenilla
that her recruiter had promised her a number of things: free lodging and transportation, 38 to 40 hours a week and earnings of up to $1,000 every paycheck. None of those things were true. With five other employees (men and women), she had to pay $360/month rent to share one bedroom with three other people. She had to pay for her bus fare on her own dime. And she was working less than half the hours she was promised, to which her recruitment North Dakota-based agent advised her to get other odd jobs like cooking in restaurants, which was not a part of her contract. For two years, she continued to work and every time she needed to renew her contract, she would be bombarded with excessive fees that she reluctantly paid to the agent who she had never met in person. In 2015 when her contract
was set to expire, the agent told her and the other employees that there were no official job orders and that they had to renew their visas. However, while the visas were processing, they were asked to work, which all the employees knew was illegal and opened them up to the possibility of deportation. “It was really scary now because think about it: we’re in Montana where the Canadian border is so close and border patrol is so near,” Corral said. “So we were just sneaking [around] while cleaning rooms because we might be captured by border patrol and be deported, so our agent advised us to not mingle with anyone else and not talk to family and inform them what was going on. I felt like a prisoner at that point. We all knew this wasn’t what we were promised, all this trouble, so we didn’t
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A May 18-24, 2018 • NEW yORK aND NEW JERSEy aSIaN JOURNaL
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Mayweather vows to return Filipinos’ love Speaker Paul Ryan rejects GOP effort to force vote on DACA by
Joaquin M. Henson Philstar.com
UNDEFEATED boxing champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr. said he was bowled over by the Filipino hospitality during his recent five-day visit to the country, vowing to Presidential special assistant Secretary Bong Go he’ll return to embrace the Filipino people and reciprocate their love. Mayweather and his entourage were accompanied by former Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson to Davao City on a private jet that took off from Manila at 1 a.m. last Friday, May 11. The group arrived at 3 a.m. and proceeded to Bugoy Restaurant in Lanang where Go welcomed the 41-year-old fighter to the city. Mayweather apologized to Go for arriving late and said it’s been difficult to overcome jet lag because of the time difference. “I’m happy to be here,” Mayweather told Go. “Of course, the hospitality, so many great people taking care of me and my staff. We’re happy, we look forward to come back to the Philippines just to embrace the people and show the same love that they gave us. We look forward to showing the love back in return. We’re very, very thankful to everyone. The media has been great, the fans and the people. With me traveling over from the US, meeting the Filipino people for the first time, they’re some of the best people in the world I’ve ever met.” Mayweather asked Go if he could meet with President
Republican Congress members attempt to expedite vote on several bills designed to protect DACA recipients by Klarize
Medenilla AJPress
ON Thursday, May 9, House Speaker Paul Ryan rejected an attempted bypass of his leadership by his party to force a vote on legislation that would protect young undocumented immigrants who arrived to the U.S. as children. On Wednesday, Republican members of Congress challenged congressional leadership in order to thrust a vote on a series of bills Floyd Mayweather Jr. with Presidential special assistant Secretary Bong Go in Samal, Davao to protect undocumented youth del Norte. Philstar.com photo under the Deferred Action for Duterte but an appointment played the role of a gracious host Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. couldn’t be arranged because and ambassador. In a rare move, the small group From Lanang, Mayweather of the Chief Executive’s busy schedule. Go himself met with and his party went to the Pearl of Republicans signed a discharge Mayweather only for 20 minutes Farm Beach Resort in the Is- petition, a maneuver that, if signed before heading to Marawi City land Garden City of Samal in by a majority of House members, to join the President with sur- Davao del Norte, off the coast of would bring legislation to a vote renderees from the ISIS-Maute Davao City. Mayweather slept in without needing approval from the Group. But even as he attended until 11 a.m. then had lunch of speaker of the house or any conto his Malacañang duties, Go grilled chicken, squid and beef. gressional committee. If the petition would garner made sure Mayweather was giv- Mayweather showed a liking for en the red carpet treatment by Filipino food, including kare-kare enough co-signers, it would designating close associates to and chicken inasal. At about 4 bring four different immigration take care of the champion’s stay. p.m., Mayweather and about 30 measures to the House floor as Mayweather never touched on companions went around Talikud early as June. The group of cenhis boxing career in his meeting Island which is behind Samal. trist Republicans said they are with Go. He spoke about his visit Mayweather enjoyed the Tali- sick of waiting for a solution and to El Nido, the impressive Manila kud waters on a jet-ski. He had want to get DACA recipients out malls and his love for beaches. He dinner at the Pearl Farm before of the limbo they’ve been livsaid he came to the Philippines taking off from Davao City at 11 to see for himself how beautiful p.m. for Manila. Mayweather left the country is, to go around and Manila for Japan early Saturday to meet the Filipino people. Go morning. n PAGE A3 sport fans, highlighting the 14 Asian Americans who competed and caught attention in the 2018 erything you can do, especially tember 2017. Of those who are Winter Olympics. Taking notice of its Asian when you’re working in a differ- trafficked, 75 percent of them American fan base, the report ent country. I was just looking are women. Another survey from the Walk added that marketers have for work to support my family like anyone else, and then all Free Foundation found that this happened, you know?” Cor- there was an estimated 401,000 Filipinos living in modern slavral remarked. Trafficking of human beings, ery in 2015. Moreover, of the as a whole, is the world’s second 10 million overseas Filipino most profitable underground workers (OFW), many reported economic enterprise, generating being subjected to trafficking, a globally estimated $150 billion commercial sexual exploitation every year, according to the In- and forced labor throughout the ternational Labor Organization world. If you or anyone you know may (ILO), a tripartite of the United Nations that oversees global la- be a victim of human trafficking in the U.S., the National Human bor standards. The ILO has also estimated Trafficking Resource Center hothat there are 40.3 million vic- tline is available 24/7 at 1 (888) tims of human trafficking around 373-7888. You may also text the world, according to a global “HELP” or “INFO” at 233733. estimates study released in Sep- (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
know what to do at that point.” When the recruiter told her there were no more job orders, she felt “lost.” It wasn’t until she contacted a friend in New York, who was a trafficking victim, that she realized that she, too, had been a victim of human trafficking. She relocated to New York where she learned about modern-day trafficking tactics and is now an external membership officer for Migrante New York. “You don’t think that these things can happen to you, and I really didn’t think it would happen to me and at the time [I was working] I didn’t know that was human trafficking. I felt it was unfair, but you know, you do ev-
but I want to have a vote on something that can make it into law. I don’t want to have, you know, show ponies,” Ryan said to reporters on Thursday. This week’s efforts in the ongoing political battle for DACA is the latest in a long game of legislative tug-o-war. Since January, the Senate has rejected many of the White House frameworks for DACA that includes funding for Trump’s massive border wall. In the meantime, DACA recipients are still able to renew after several federal judges ruled against the Trump administration, calling its efforts to terminate the program “arbitrary and capricious.” Signed into law in 2012, DACA provides a host of benefits to young undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children. Benefits depend on each state, but DACA recipients are guaranteed work authorization and protection from deportation. Estimates vary, but there are approximately 650,000-750,000 current DACA recipients, a vast majority of whom have reported better career and educational opportunities since enrolling in DACA. n
The growing Asian American...
‘I felt like a prisoner’: A human... PAGE A3
ing in since President Donald Trump first terminated DACA in 2017. “There are million-plus men and women who don’t have certainty,” said Rep. Will Hurd (R-Texas). “These are men and women who have contributed to our economy...to our history... These are people who are Americans and they need a permanent legislative fix.” As of press time, 17 Republicans have signed the petition. In order to take effect and have the bills head to the floor for votes, the petition needs 218 signatories; so, 25 more Republicans and every Democrat need to sign to trigger the votes. However, Ryan has publicly rejected the move and predicts that the effort will fail, saying that he doesn’t want to see a maneuver that turns “the floor over to the minority” and ends up with a “veto.” He emphasized the importance of including the White House in any discussions on immigration legislation regarding DACA, adding that bypassing Republican leadership would likely be rejected. “I would like to have an immigration vote before the midterms,
launched programs like the Golden State Warriors Filipino Heritage Night or the Sacramento Kings Bollywood Night to attract Asian American fans. But despite the many Asian American actresses and actors gracing mainstream media, the
report added that Asian Americans still remain underrepresented — even as the demographic over-index in watching downloaded movies, using TV show subscription services, and going out to movies. (Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)
World-class designer Renee Salud with the models of the Philippine Tapestry Fashion Show in Philadelphia. Also in photo are Minister JV Chan-Gonzaga, Acting Head of Post Kerwin Tate and Consul Arman Talbo. Photos by Boyet Loverita
‘Philippine Tapestry’ goes to... PAGE A2 the flow of the show when water would fall from the edges of the makeshift tent and drench the audience members seated, some with their umbrellas already protecting them from the wind gust and rain. The event aimed to gather various stakeholders and community members to build awareness about the Filipino culture and the strong community in Philadelphia and despite the nasty weather, about a hundred community leaders and friends in the Asian American community attended. For the models, it was business as usual. The ladies in particular worked the runway wearing their high heels and long-train evening gowns and dresses, the heaviest of which weighs about 33 pounds (15 kilograms). From the makeshift backstage area, they would walk and run and avoid the puddles that have formed throughout the afternoon to climb a set of stairs with an assistant carrying a golf umbrella to prevent them from getting wet. “Doing a show under the rain is pretty much challenging,” shared one of the models, Miss Tourism Queen of the Year International 2016, Leren Mae Bautista. “But what keeps me going is the thought that I’m doing this for the love of my country and for those people behind Philippine Tapestry. Rain won’t stop us!” Angelee de los Reyes, Miss Philippines Earth 2013, echoed Bautista’s sentiments. “It was my first time to walk on the ramp outdoor and raining... one for the books,” she
said. “What we were thinking of was that we still had to show the beauty of the Philippines and give justice to Mama Renee Salud’s creations, and everyone’s effort for the entertainment and happiness of the people who were watching despite the rain.” Emmy Award-winning reporter Christie Ileto of ABC6 Philadelphia, host of the event shared on her social media account some behind the scenes photos and clips of the models running and prepping backstage, including her favorite looks on the runway. She also expressed astonishment as to how the models – some wearing 6-inch heels, could effortlessly walk the partly wet runway. Other guests had positive reactions about the event and the show in particular. “The show was awesome and the participants did a wonderful job despite the weather challenges. Proud that we are able to showcase our authentic fabrics and the beautiful creations of our own Renee Salud in Philadelphia,” said Dr. Aida Rivera, Region I chair of the National Federation of Filipino-American Associations. “The venue set up was not ideal but the show still turned out to be classy. My hats off to the beautiful models for being so professional, the weather not withstanding.” “This was a good opportunity to promote the Philippines in Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly affection. The timing is perfect as we are celebrating the AAPI month, a great tradition we keep in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
with the Filipino community as a vibrant component,” Dr. Rivera added. “Tonight’s event at City Hall to showcase Philippine Tapestry Fashion Show was absolutely spectacular! Renee Salud is amazing with his talent and skills and the models were magical,” said Sheila Hess, city representative. “I didn’t even realize it was raining anymore as I was captivated by the videos highlighting tourism in the Philippines and the outstanding performances of the runway models.” The Mayor’s Commission on Asian American Affairs comprises of 25 professionals and community leaders that represent the diversity of Asian American Communities in Philadelphia. The Commission advises the Mayor on issues and policies pertinent to Asian communities in the city, ensures diversity and inclusion for Asian communities within city policies, and also assists Asian American community organizations in developing strategies and programs to enhance the social, cultural, and economic status of the Asian American community. Grace Rustia, Associate State Director, AARP Pennsylvania State Office sits as the Vice Chair of the commission, and was instrumental in partnering with Tourism Attache Susan del Mundo of the Philippine Department of Tourism to bring the show to the City of Brotherly Love. Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf sent his representative to the event, Tiffany Chang Lawson, executive director of Governor Wolf’s Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs. . n
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Duterte vows to resign if proven involved in Sereno ouster from Supreme Court by Ritchel
Mendiola AJPress
BACK HOME. The Philippine Navy welcomes back BRP Gregorio del Pilar at Pier 13 of South Harbor in Manila. Navy men participated in the multilateral naval exercise dubbed “Komodo 2018,” hosted by Indonesia. ManilaTimes.net photo by DJ Diosina
Comelec proclaims 90% of barangay poll winners by Ritchel
Mendiola AJPress
ComeleC spokesman James Jimenez disclosed that as of 1:50 p.m. on Tuesday, may 15, 94.01 percent of all villages nationwide were able to proclaim the election winners. Regions III and VII were already 100 percent finished and all winners in 3,102 and 3,003 villages, respectively, already proclaimed. “overall, it’s almost finished. Hopefully, by 8 p.m. it’s all over,” Jimenez said. With the proclamation process for the barangay (village) and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK or youth council) elections almost through, the Commission on elections (Comelec) has called on all candidates to file their statements of contribution and expenditures (SoCe) not later than June 13 to avoid being disqualified from holding public office. The non-filing of the SoCe is not technically grounds for disqualification, Jimenez pointed out, but it becomes one if a candidate has perennially disregarded this requirement, if he/she wins or loses or did not participate in the elections later but had filed a certificate of candidacy (CoC). “If a loser did not file a SoCe, it will be part of his record as not having filed a SoCe for these elections. If it becomes a habit of a candidate to disregard the requirement of SoCe, he will be
COUNTING BEGINS. School teachers count the votes at the close of elections for barangay (village) and Sangguniang Kabataan (youth council) posts at Araullo High School in Manila on Monday, May 14. ManilaTimes.net photo by DJ Diosina
disqualified later on,” he said. The Department of the Interior and local Government (DIlG) is currently looking for a way to nforce the SoCe by requiring barangay officials to present a certificate of compliance from the Comelec before administering their oath of office, according to Jimenez. The Comelec Campaign Finance office has already published a list candidates declared with finality by the commission as perpetually disqualified to hold public office for repeated failures to file their SoCe after elections on its website. Winners on narcolist? “We have always said that the barangay is where the public directly experiences our government. Therefore, our frontline
public officials must be sterling exemplars of upright, law-abiding citizens to the public whom they pledge to serve,” Jimenez said. oscar Albayalde, Philippine National Police chief, said the winners who happen to be drug suspects could be subjected to operation: Tokhang, the main strategy of the Duterte administration’s war on drugs. “Just because they won, it does not mean that they will be excused,” he said in a news briefing on Tuesday. Prior the elections, the Philippine Drug enforcement Agency (PDeA) released a so-called narcolist containing the names of 207 former and incumbent village officials nationwide who are suspected of links to the drug trade. n
VP Leni Robredo’s net worth drop due to poll protest by Ritchel
Mendiola
naman ako nakikialam.” Sereno, the first woman and youngest to hold the top post in PReSIDeNT Rodrigo Duterte the judiciary, would have also on Wednesday, may 16, denied served the longest as she was any involvement in the ouster supposed to stay in her post unof Chief Justice maria lourdes til her retirement at age 70 in Sereno by the Supreme Court (SC). Voting 8 to 6, the SC granted the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida against Sereno due to her supposed failure to submit all her Statements of Assets, liabilities, and Net worth (SAlNs) to the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) when she applied for the post in 2012. Duterte vowed he will resign if anyone could prove that he had a hand in the removal of Sereno. “If there’s one congresswoman or congressman or a single justice who will say I talked to them, I can guarantee you I will resign,” Duterte told reporters in malacañang. Sereno, following the release of the ruling, questioned Duterte’s involvement in the ouster attempts against her. Duterte would then proclaim himself the female head magistrate’s “enemy” for her accusations, asking the House to hasten Sereno’s ouster. “I told Sereno I was not involved in it. Ask anyone. I never lifted a finger,” he said. Duterte also denied that he ordered Calida to to file the quo warranto petition against Sereno, saying Calida’s move may be related to his being a staunch supporter of the marcos family. “It was his [Calida] job to find faults. Hindi ko inaano, sabi ko, ‘I do not order Cabinet members’… Whatever he thinks that it is his duty to perform, hindi ako nakikialam,” Duterte said. He also said it would be “out of character of him” to run after adversaries. “Hindi ako nanghahabol ng tao, he said. “Kaya ngayon I challenge everybody and anybody. Magturo ng isang congresswoman or isang congressman o senador or Justice ng Supreme Court na nilapitan ko o maski na abogado lang naman kung wala na kayong makitang iba. Hindi
2030. She was appointed by Aquino in 2012 following the ouster through impeachment of thenChief Justice Renato Corona, an appointee of former President Gloria macapagal Arroyo. n
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AJPress
VICe President leni Robredo’s net worth significantly decreased in 2017 due to expenses related to the election protest filed by former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos at the Presidential electoral Tribunal (PeT). In her Statement of Assets, liabilities and Net Worth (SAlN) submitted to the office of the ombudsman on April 30, Robredo said her net worth only amounts to P1,114,102.84, as of December 31, 2017, down by P7.76 million from P8,878,111.43 in December 2016. Robredo noted in her SAlN that she has “lower net worth due to partial counter-protest fee deposited with PeT.” Her net worth dropped when her liabilities ballooned to P11.9 million in 2017 — which is an increase of 72.46 percent from P6.9 million in 2016. She registered additional loans payable to Pablito Chua (P1 million), Vicente Hao Chin, Jr. (P2 million), and Rafael Bundoc (P2 million); in addition to personal loans from her mother Salvacion Gerona (P750,000), her brother-in-law Jose Robredo Jr. (P1.15 million), her sister-in-law Jocelyn Austria (P2 million), and the estates of her parents-in-law marcelina and Jose Robredo (P3 million). Her assets also declined, from
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JK8E; FLK =IFD K?< G8:B% 8J@8E AFLIE8CËJ GIF=<JJ@FE8C J<IM@:<J ;@I<:KFIP# n`cc efn Y\ ilee`e^ n\\bcp# \m\ip =i`[Xp f] E\n Pfib& E\n A\ij\p <[`k`fe% Vice President Leni Robredo along with counsels files an urgent motion for reconsideration for immediate direct the head revisors to sue the 25 percent threshold percentage in the revision, recount and re-appreciation of ballots before the Supreme Court. Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban
P15.78 million in 2016, to P13.01 million in 2017. Her current assets include include two residential lots, three agricultural lots, a house, an orchard and a memorial lot all located in Naga City, with a total cost of P1.735 million. She also listed cash (P6.176 million), furniture and appliances (P1.5 million), jewelry (P1 million), prepaid insurance (P630,000), Toyota Innova acquired in 2010 (P1.12 million) and Toyota Grandia acquired in 2014 (P1.75 million). Robredo declared a net worth of P8,711,083 and P8,302,123.70 in 2015 and 2014, respectively. Robredo had to deposit P8 mil-
lion to PeT as initial payment for her counter-protest against marcos after the former senator filed a protest against her in June 2016 to contest her victory in the vice presidential race. “Yes. She had to borrow money to pay the protest fees required by PeT. Supportive citizens raised money through contributions and attempted to submit to PeT, but their petition was denied. So the VP had to raise the money herself,” Barry Gutierrez, Robredo’s legal counsel, told reporters. Robredo’s SAlN was released by the office of the ombudsman, following the release of President Rodrigo Duterte’s SAlN last may 11. n
Villar remains richest senator, Trillanes poorest by PatRicia louRdes Philstar.com
Sen. Cynthia Villar remains the richest senator with a net worth of P3.611 billion in 2017 while Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV is the poorest with a net worth of around P6.872 million. Philstar.com photos
ViRay
mANIlA — For the fourth consecutive year, Sen. Cynthia Villar turned out as the wealthiest member of the Senate based on her 2017 Statement of Assets, liabilities and Net Worth. Villar, whose family is engaged in real estate and retail businesses, declared a net worth of P3.611 billion with no liability at the end of 2017. Her net worth slightly grew from her P3.606-billion in 2016. Sen. manny Pacquiao, who has built a career in professional boxing, emerged as the second richest senator with a net worth of P2.946 billion by the end of last year.
Pacquiao’s net worth shrunk from his reported P3.072 billion in 2016. His liabilities from various bank loans amount to around P129.778 million. on the other hand, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV remains the “poorest” senator with a reported net worth of P6.872 million by the end of 2017. Trillanes’ net worth slightly grew from the previous year’s P6.5 million. Holding Salary Grade 31, the senators’ pay is set to increase from P198,169 to P223,590 as part of the third tranche of former President Benigno Aquino III’s executive order 201 which modified the salary schedule for government personnel. n
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A May 18-24, 2018 • NEW yORK aND NEW JERSEy aSIaN JOURNaL
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OpiniOn
Features
Public shaming
Resign or be fired, President Duterte told two assistant secretaries on Tuesday, May 15 amid accusations that the two abused their positions and engaged in corruption. He had previously sent similar orders to several Cabinet secretaries, including old friends and members of his 2016 campaign team. As of late Tuesday afternoon, Moslemen Macarambon Sr. had heeded the President’s call and resigned as assistant secretary of the Department of Justice. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said investigation conducted by the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission showed Macarambon had interceded in a jewelry smuggling case at the NAIA on May 3. Macarambon denied wrongdoing and said his in-laws were being asked to pay P6 million in Customs duties for bringing in jewelry valued at P7 million. The assessment was brought down to P1.38 million through his intercession. There was no word from the other assistant secretary, Tingagun Ampaso Umpa of the Department of Public Works and Highways, who is accused of seeking commissions from contractors in exchange for awarding them DPWH projects in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Umpa assumed his post as assistant secretary for ARMM operations and special Mindanao projects only on Jan. 5 this year. It’s not the first time that Malacañang has announced the sacking of government officials on
accusations of corruption. The public shaming alone should serve as a warning to others who are using their positions to enrich themselves or are considering entering into crooked deals. The best deterrent, however, is the certainty of punishment. It’s not enough to order erring officials to resign or be fired. The Office of the Ombudsman must pick up the ball and initiate its own investigation of the sacked officials for possible criminal prosecution. The ombudsman can ask for copies of the relevant materials used by the presidential commission for use as evidence. If the officials can be fired over the cases, the ombudsman should be able to indict them quickly enough before the Sandiganbayan. In turn the anti-graft court can speed up its adjudication, taking its cue from the uncharacteristic lightning speed by which the Supreme Court threw out the chief justice through a simple quo warran- delay” in their indictment by the ombudsman. Such acquittals, and the general failure to punto petition. The sacked Cabinet members deserve due process but must not be given the opportunity ish those accused of corruption especially plunder, to seek an acquittal by invoking any “inordinate is one of the biggest reasons for the persistence
Editorial
Philstar.com photo
of graft. Beyond the public shaming, which is welcomed by those who are sick of entrenched corruption, guilt must be established and appropriate punishment imposed. (Philstar.com)
Fil-Am community leaders’ opposing perspectives on the ouster of CJ Sereno by the Supreme Court CHIEF JUSTICE Maria Lourdes Sere- The Fil-Am no was removed from Perspective the Philippine Supreme Court through an 8-6 vote by the justices on May 11, 2018, for what they Gel SantoS-ReloS conclude is her failure to file her Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net worth (SALNs) when she was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte’s predecessor, Benigno Aquino III. Sereno denied any wrongdoing and has maintained that she had complied with all the requirements of the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC), including the submission of her SALNs when she was being considered for the top post of the Judiciary in 2012. As the Associated Press (AP) reported, legal groups called on Philippine legislators on Tuesday, May 14, “to defend their constitutional power to impeach officials which they said was usurped by Supreme Court justices.” Law professors and deans from various universities, former Chief Justice Hilario Davide, members of the opposition party, human rights groups, and ordinary citizens, joined the dissenting Supreme Court justices in contending that the ouster of Sereno was unconstitutional. The AP further reported that Jose Manuel Diokno, chairman of the nongovernment Free Legal Assistance Group, said the petition to oust Sereno that was filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida, called a “quo warranto,” set the judiciary on a collision course with the legislature and pre-empted months of impeachment actions against Sereno in Congress. The House was to vote on impeachment charges accusing Sereno of corruption, breach of public trust and other crimes, and then the decision was supposed to be sent to the Senate.
The AP report added that the Senate was preparing to turn itself into an impeachment court to try Sereno, who had gone on a two-month leave from the court to prepare for her defense. But according to the AP report, “even Duterte’s allies in the 24-member Senate did not agree with Sereno’s ouster by her fellow judges. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III said Sereno can only be removed by a congressional impeachment process and called on the Supreme Court to review its verdict.” Critics of President Rodrigo Duterte allege that the ouster of Sereno was politically motivated, because as the AP chronicled, “Sereno earned the ire of Duterte by speaking up for respect of law and human rights as he led a brutal crackdown on illegal drugs that has left thousands of suspects dead.” Duterte himself said Sereno must be out of the Supreme Court. Others question the timing of the petition to ouster Sereno. Why only now when she has been serving as Chief Justice since 2012? What really motivated the justices who testified against Sereno in the House hearing and why did they not inhibit themselves during the Supreme Court trial for delicadeza? Were they jealous that she was appointed to head the SC when she was younger than the sitting justices? Was there a “conspiracy” to oust her among the pro-Duterte/anti-Aquino/pro-Marcos members of the judiciary, the legislature and the executive branches of government? Former Chief Justice Hilario Davide suggested that there “seems to be a conspiracy among the three proponents, impeachment, quo warranto and the judges for the [Sereno] resignation. He issued a call to seek the independence of the judiciary and to protect
the rule of law and due process before Sereno was ousted. FILIPINOS IN AMERICA were also divided on this issue. Community leaders and members of the U.S. Pinoys for Good Governance (USPGG) issued a statement that said: “Our Constitution is clear, the ONLY LEGAL WAY TO REMOVE THE CHIEF JUSTICE is through IMPEACHMENT, but the case against her is weak as she has proven that she is not corrupt, nor is she beholden to any padrino. The 8 justices have trampled on the Constitution by denying her right to an impeachment process.” The USPGG urged Sereno NOT to resign from the Supreme Court, and asked the Senate “to intervene and uphold the Constitution and the rule of law.” ON THE OTHER HAND, the U.S. Pinoys for Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP), headed by Atty. Arnedo Valera, urge the Filipino people to respect the decision of the Supreme Court and to “move on” for the sake of the country. Here is their official statement: The Supreme Court has spoken, and it has the final word. On May 11, by a vote of 8-6 on a quo warranto petition by Solicitor General Jose Calida, it removed Maria Lourdes Sereno as Chief Justice of the Philippines’ Supreme Court. It ruled she was not qualified for the position from the very start. It cited her failure to comply with the required Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) over a ten-year-period when she applied for the position of Chief Justice. The issue of constitutionality of quo warranto in this case is now moot and academic because the final arbiter of what is constitutional or not is the Supreme Court, the highest court of the land. Neither Congress nor the Executive branch of the government, nor the public, can judge the constitutionality of any action or law. That is the sole
domain of the Supreme Court. It will be recalled that during the recent impeachment hearings by the House of Representatives, it was discovered for the first time that Sereno’s appointment by President Benigno S. Aquino III was problematic, because she was never qualified for the position from Day One. It was factually established that Sereno failed to comply with the submission of the last 10 years of her SALN when she applied for the position of Chief Justice in 2012. This fact made her appointment void ab initio, or invalid from the start. On May 13, the Philippine Inquirer reported that Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio, in his separate dissenting opinion, said Sereno “could be held liable for not religiously filing her SALNs, which is a violation of the Constitution and a ground for impeachment that should be left to Congress to decide on.” Carpio was among the six justices who voted against the expulsion of Sereno from her position as Chief Justice through quo warranto. Although Article XI Sec. 2 of the Philippine Constitution enumerates officials who can be removed by impeachment, impeachment is not the only way to remove an elected or appointed government official. Regarding former Chief Justice Sereno, there was a factual and legal basis that her appointment as Chief Justice was invalid from the start or tainted with legal infirmities. Quo warranto was the right course of action. Dissenting opinions, no matter how logical and scholarly presented, will not affect the majority decision. To be sure, they are important as a historical document. Legitimate dissent, dissent without hidden political agenda, matters as a way to mold public opinion. Attacking the decision of the Supreme Court as unconstitutional, however, is a futile exercise because the Supreme Court itself, the final repository
of judicial authority and the final arbiter of what is constitutional or not, has made this landmark decision. Whether we agree or disagree with the decision, it must be accorded full respect. For the record, a quo warranto proceeding is constitutional, and as a legal remedy it is recognized as part of the nation’s laws. There are so many case precedents where an elected or appointed official of the government is removed by quo warranto. Such proceedings are called for when the election or appointment is invalid from the start. The one-year prescriptive period does not apply, as the failure to comply with the SALN requirement was just recently discovered. It appears there was a blatant omission by the previous administration to investigate fully Sereno’s compliance regarding the integrity issue of a nominee for the position of Chief Justice. This is basic law. When Chief Justice Corona was removed by impeachment, there was no issue that his appointment was invalid or void from the very start. It is worth noting, however, that the impeachment proceeding against Corona was tainted with irregularities because money changed hands to support the impeachment. Whether we agree or disagree with it, the Supreme Court is, by mandate and tradition, the final arbiter of any interpretation of the nation’s laws. It will continue to evolve in our changing and challenging times. We keep moving forward as a nation with lessons learned along the way. We must move on beyond former Chief Justice Sereno. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos
The quo warranto ruling upholds democracy
Opinion
RicaRdo Saludo THE hysteria was not only expected. It had been going on weeks before the Supreme Court ruled 8-6 last Friday that Maria Lourdes Sereno was unqualified to be appointed Chief Justice and was illegally holding the CJ position. As the high court decision approached, Sereno herself and her supporters warned that accepting and granting the quo warranto petition would undermine judicial independence by making high court magistrates subject to removal by means other than impeachment. Now that the QW ruling is upon us, the entities purport-
edly imperiled are all government officials, the rule of law, and democracy too, because the high court is now subservient. For those staunchly holding these opinions, this article will not persuade, partly because most Sereno supporters won’t even read it. As for her opponents, they will dismiss QW critics without listening to them. But for the silent majority wanting to get a thoughtful, objective perspective, read on. Frequently angst questions So, what’s wrong with the quo warranto ruling? Not the legal pros and cons, which this non-lawyer isn’t qualified to delve into, just like so many others pontificating on lawyerly arguments even if they are
not members of the bar. Rather, we touch on political and governance concerns, especially on how the ruling may affect rule of law, independence of the courts, and Philippine democracy. Based on criticisms hurled by the Sereno camp, here are questions that people may be wondering about: • Are all officials now in danger of removal by quo warranto? • Has the Supreme Court lost its independence? • Will the ruling undemine Philippine democracy? On the security of elected and appointed officials, in fact, all of them can always be removed by quo warranto or some other way of questioning their election or appointment, even the President, as stated
in the Rules of Court. So, one ruling does not add any new risk to the tenure of any person in the government. In fact, as Civil Service Commission chairman in 20082009, I encountered many cases of bureaucrats removed after years of service due to faulty credentials, including cheating in civil service eligibility exams. What about impeachable officials? Well, those invalidly appointed are not officials at all. Period. If, for instance, it was discovered that President Rodrigo Duterte had a Chinese passport when he was elected, then by quo warranto, he would be declared disqualified from the presidency. Not being the lawful president, he would have no position from which to be impeached.
In 2010, the Aquino administration actually petitioned the Supreme Court to declare invalid the appointment of thenCommission on Audit Chairman Reynaldo Villar. Reason: he was already a COA commissioner when named chairman, violating the ban on top officials of constitutional commissions being reappointed to those bodies. Yet quo warranto critics simply refuse to accept the simple principle that anyone invalidly elected or appointed is not an official, so there is no one to impeach. Perhaps they would see reason if their political opponents face QW petitions. QW strengthens judiciary Opponents also claim that quo warranto erodes the high court’s independence, for two reasons: It subjects justices to
removal by means other than impeachment or, for lower courts, dismissal by the Supreme Court. And in declaring Sereno’s appointment as CJ invalid, the high court granted the express wish of President Duterte to oust her. On the first reason, as stated earlier, all officials are subject to QW or any other way of invalidating their appointment or election. Valid processes and qualifications for all officials are indispensable in ensuring that the people’s sovereign will, as expressed in constitutional and legal rules for election and appointment, are followed. And by ensuring that all justices are validly appointed, and those who are not are rePAGE A7
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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14 senators sign resolution Palace: No discrimination backing Sotto as Senate president against women in government by audrey
by Gaea
morallo
Philstar.com
MANILA — A majority of senators have signed a resolution electing Sen. Vicente Sotto III, the current majority leader, as the new Senate leader and replacing Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, who downplayed the supposed move to unseat him. The resolution has already been signed by 14 senators, according to a copy of the resolution released by News5. “By a majority vote of all the senators, Senator Vicente C. Sotto III is hereby elected as the new Senate President to discharge the duties and powers granted to him by the rules of the Senate,” the unnumbered draft Senate resolution said. “It is hereby resolved by a majority vote of all the Senators to express its sense to reorganize its leadership and hereby electing Senator Vicente C. Sotto III as the new Senate President,” it added. Under its rules, the Senate elects its president, president pro tempore, secretary and sergeant-at-arms. In recent days, several media outlets have reported about the looming leadership change in the Senate which was sup-
Katreena Philstar.com
CabiCo
MANILA — Despite the president’s comment that he is ruling out women candidates for the next ombudsman, Malacañang on Thursday, May 17, said that there is no discrimination against women in government. “I believe there is no discrimination against women in government. Anyone can be appointed to a government post,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a press briefing the morning after the At least 14 senators have reportedly signed a resolution electing Sen. Vicente Sotto III as the president made the remark new Senate president. Philstar.com photo about not wanting a woman in the ombudsman post. Pimentel is the president of posedly part of an agreement bePresident Rodrigo Duterte on the ruling PDP-Laban party and Wednesday, May 16, said that tween Sotto and Pimentel. Pimentel himself said that his was elected Senate president at he would not appoint a woman top choice for successor was Sot- the start of the 17th Congress in as the next corruption buster to, who reportedly enjoyed the 2016. after Ombudsman Conchita CarThe senators that have al- pio-Morales retires on July 26. support of at least 15 senators. However, the current Senate ready signed the resolution are “[S]omeone whose integrity chief said that he did not want Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, is admired by people. Of course, to rush the change in leadership Nancy Binay, Joseph Victor Es- it could not be [a] politician, esand it should be a “multi-step trada, Francis Escudero, Sher- pecially not a woman,” the chief process” open to all members of win Gatchalian, Richard Gordon, executive said in Filipino. Gregorio Honasan II, Panfilo the majority caucus. Roque said he would seek When asked on Thursday for Lacson, Loren Legarda, Manny clarification from the chief excomment on the resolution, Pi- Pacquiao, Ralph Recto, Joel Vil- ecutive on what he meant. mentel said he had not yet seen lanueva, Cynthia Villar and Juan Miguel Zubiri. it. The other members of the ma“(It was) reported but no one has seen it,” Pimentel told Phil- jority bloc are Pimentel, Sotto, and Sen. Grace Poe. n star.com. PAGE A6 moved, quo warranto strengthens the credibility, integrity and prestige of the judiciary, all crucial to its independence. But here’s an even stronger guarantee of judicial clout: It is the Supreme Court that decides all QW cases, even those environmental laws and regula- Densing said in an interview against top officials in the Executive and Legislative branchover dzMM. tions,” Cimatu said. Cimatu, however, said they es, and the constitutional comDepartment of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) learned the activity was done missions. How can cases decided soleUndersecretary Epimaco Dens- even before the Boracay closure ing III yesterday said they have and has since been stopped, as ly by the judiciary undermine already sent people to check confirmed by DENR regional its independence? One can see impeachment by a Congress the site, which is located in field office. The DENR has also ordered bribed by Malacañang with Barangay Yapak of the island a moratorium on the issuance pork barrel and Disbursement resort. Densing took note of photos of permits, including environ- Acceleration Program (DAP) in social media showing por- mental compliance certificates funds as undermining magand tree cutting permits, except istrates. But unless justices tions of the flattened area. Densing said whoever initiat- those that are related to the on- themselves let QW petitions ed the forest clearing will have going road-widening project by against them prosper, they the Department of Public Works need not fear it. to explain. Critics further argue that the He said the property owner and Highways. “But we are also appealing majority justices caved in to or developer should show documents authorizing the forest that when you make any report Palace pressure in granting QW or post anything online, these — the other reason for claimclearing. “Regardless of documents, should be verified first so as not ing that judicial independence it should be stopped. That is to cause any misunderstand- is eroded. They further warn that the the instruction on the ground,” ing,” Cimatu said. n
tupas
Philstar.com
MANILA — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has ordered a total stop to all types of construction in Boracay following reports of a forestland in a mountainous area being flattened on the island. Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu noted reports that hillsides and forestlands were being eroded and flattened by property owners and developers in Boracay. “I have ordered, with concurrence of the Boracay interagency task force, a total stoppage of all construction of any kind effective immediately to be clear to all that we mean business in the enforcement of
FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS Madaba, Mt. Nebo, Petra, Aqaba, Jordan
(Tiberias, Ceasarea, Haifa, Meggido,Magdala, Nazareth, Cana, Mt Carmel, Capernaum, Mt. Beatitude, Jericho, Bethany, Mt.Tabor, Mount Zion, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Qumran, Masada Dead Sea, Allen by Bridge, Madaba, Mt Nebo Petra, Aqaba Jordan)
Oct. 18, 2018( Thursday) Day 1 – MNL HKG, TEL AVIV, ISRAEL Trans-Atlantic flight from LAX to Ben Gurion International Airport, Tel Aviv, Israel. (Meals served in-flight) Oct. 18, 2018 (Friday) Day 1 – Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv/Tiberias Arrival from Manila still Oct. 18,2018 late in the evening. After we clear Immigration and Customs, will be met by our driver for transfer to tiberias . enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean. We will spend our first night in Tiberias. Dinner and overnight (D). Gai Beach Hotel (Oct. 19, 2018) Holy Eucharist Oct. 20, 2018 (Saturday) Day 3 - Tiberias/ Meggido/ Nazareth/ Cana /Mt Tabor We will have short stop in Meggido and the Plains of Armageddon, known in Hebrew as Meggido, a giant fortress and City built by King Solomon. In the New Testament book of Revelation, it is referred as the sites of the “final battle”. From there, we will continue our drive into Nazareth, where we will have Mass in the Church of the Annunciation, the Cave of the Annunciation and visit Joseph’s Workshop and Then we will move on to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed His first miracle: changing water into wine at the wedding feast. We will invite couples to Bless their marriage vows, Continue to Mount Tabor, site of Jesus Transfiguration Afterward, we will head to Tiberias. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias. (B/D).Gai Beach Hotel. Oct. 21, 2018 (Sunday) Day 4 - Tiberias/Mount Beatitude/ Multiplication / Primacy/ Capernum/Boat Ride “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” Early AM departures to Mt. Beatitude Drive up to Mount Beatitudes, visit the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. Eucharistic Celebration. Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Then to the Church Primacy of St Peters. Overnight Magdala ( BB, D) Oct. 22, 2018 (Monday) Day 5 - Magdala Full day retreat , Focus will Include programs based on the historical and Religious value of the Magdala sites More info coming up as we get closer to the dates MAGDALA, Israel – 2009 Discoveries from a new archaeological dig are creating excitement in the area where Jesus began his ministry. The village is called Magdala (Migdal in Hebrew), and it’s the home of Mary Magdalene.”She lived here and she met Jesus here and she continued with Him. Yes, it’s that place The most important discovery in Magdala has been a synagogue dating back to the time of Jesus. According to archaeologists, it’s the first one discovered in the Galilee. Oct. 23, 2018 (Tuesday) DAY 6 - Jordan Valley/Jericho/Bethany/ Jerusalem Mass at the Church of St. Lazarus MAGDALA, Israel – 2009 Discoveries from a new archaeological dig are creating excitement in the area where Jesus began his ministry. The village is called Magdala (Migdal in Hebrew), and it’s the home of Mary Magdalene.”She lived here and she met Jesus here and she continued with Him. Yes, it’s that place The most important discovery in Magdala has been a synagogue dating back to the time of Jesus. According to archaeologists, it’s the first one discovered in the Galilee. Oct. 24, 2018 ( Wednesday) Day 7 - Jerusalem (Old City)/Via Dolorosa/Mount Zion Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha.” (John 19:17) We will enter the Old City of Jerusalem and will follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) and say the Station of the Cross to the holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the Tomb of Our Lord. After mass, we return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, we will enter the Old City, sing a hymn in the Church of St. Anne and view the Pool of Bethesda. Then we will visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Lithostratos (where the soldiers played the Game of Kings) and the Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Dinner/Overnight Notre Dame Vatican hotel
Mass at the Holy Eucharist Church of St Peter in Gallicantu “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us...” (John 1:14) We will walk to view the Dome of the Rock from the outside, and visit the Western Wall, ( Wailing Wall ) the only part of the Herodian Temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. Then, we will drive to Mt. Zion, to visit the Upper Room, revered as the site of the Last Supper, then survey the Dormition Abbey, and the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, the site where Peter denied Jesus three times. After the day’s tour, we will return to our hotel for dinner and overnight. Jerusalem (B, D) Notre Dame Vatican Hotel Oct. 26, 2018 (Friday) Day 9 - Mount of Olives/Gethsemane/ Bethlehem/Jerusalem (New City)/Ein Karem Mass at the Church of Nativity “O mountain of God, receive me, a mother, with my child.” (Protoevangelium of James 22:3) We will arrive at the Mount of Olives, to enjoy another view of Jerusalem, visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit (“God wept”) sanctuary. Next, we’ll walk the Palm Sunday Road to the Garden of Gethsemane, and visit the Rock of Agony and the Church of all Nations. In the afternoon, we’ll drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name is recognized around the world. After celebrating Mass at the Church of Nativity, we will see the Manger; visit the Church of St. Catherine, the Grotto of St. Jerome and the Shepherds’ Fields. Then we will return to Jerusalem (New City), to view the Temple Model to see how it looked during the time of Jesus. Here, we will gain a better understanding between the old and new cities of Jerusalem. Up next is a trip to Ein Karem, birthplace of St. John the Baptist, to see the Visitation Church, where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat”. We will end our day by returning to our Hotel. (B/D). Oct. 27, 2018 (Saturday) Day 10 - Jerusalem/ Dead Sea/ Qumran/ Masada Mass at the Church of all Nations After breakfast, we will celebrate mass at the Church of all Nations and then we will drive to Dead Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem for dinner and Overnight (B, D) Oct. 28, 2018 (Sunday) Day11 - Jerusalem/Allenby Bridge/ Madaba/Jordan/Mt. Nebo/ Aqaba Mass at Mount Nebo On this day, we head to Allenby Bridge and cross into Jordan. We will go to the Baptismal Site at Bethany, which Pope John Paul II visited in 2000. Then, it’s on to Mount Nebo, where Moses viewed the Promised Land. Our next stop will be the Church of St. George in Madaba, which hosts the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land. Then we will drive down to Aqaba. Overnight in Aqaba (B/D). Movenpick Resort & Residence. Oct 29, 2018 (Monday) Day 12 - Aqaba/Petra Mass at Stella Maris Church – Aqaba After breakfast, we will journey through the Siq, until we get our first glimpse of the Khazneh (Treasury). Then will we walk down to visit the Temple and view the many caves all around the Theater. At the end of the tour, we will drive back to Aqaba for overnight and dinner (B/D). Movenpick Resort & Residence Oct. 30, 2018 (Tuesday) Day 13 - Aqaba/ Jerusalem We Cross the Jordanian Border to return to Jerusalem. Dinner/ Overnight Oct. 31, 2018 (Wednesday) Day 14 - Jerusalem /Yad Vashem Museum/ TLV/ LAX After breakfast, we will visit the Yad Vashem Museum,is Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It is dedicated to preserving the memory of the dead; honoring Jews who fought against their Nazi oppressors and Gentiles who selflessly aided Jews in need; and researching the phenomenon of the Holocaust in particular and genocide in general, with the aim of avoiding such events in the future. After the Western Wall, Yad Vashem is the second-most-visited Israeli tourist site. Return to the hotel for lunch and relaxation in preparation for our return flight back to the USA after early dinner will be transferred to the airport for flight Oct 31, 2018 8:45 PM departure from TLV End of Our Memorable Pilgrimage to Jesus Home Land!!!
Duterte-appointed new Chief Justice would make the SC even more subservient to the President. These claims go against the Supreme Court’s record. In 2010-2011, it unanimously ordered the Hacienda Luisita plantation of then-President Benigno Aquino 3rd’s family redistributed, then affirmed its decision despite the impeachment of then-CJ Renato Corona, widely seen as spurred by the Luisita ruling. Under Sereno, the high court miffed Aquino twice, with unanimous rulings declaring the pork-barrel Priority Development Assistance Fund and the DAP unconstitutional. Not even his appointees voted in his favor. Its rulings have repeatedly shown that the Supreme Court asserts its independence against Executive, Legislative and even popular pressures. It should continue doing so. Is democracy eroded? On this third question, we have said earlier that QW helps
ensure compliance with the people’s will in election and appointment. And high court independence will further uphold our democratic prerogatives and rights. What about Charter change? Will the Supreme Court block moves to railroad constitutional changes through legislation and referendum? Again, history offers hopeful precedents. Both the Ramos and Arroyo administrations, with legislative support, mounted signature campaigns for a people’s initiative to amend the Constitution. But the Supreme Court voided them for violating the Charter. If Cha-cha again breaks the law, Their Honors the Justices would stop it, with the people’s support and respect, which sadly the Sereno camp has sought to diminish. To uphold democracy and the rule of law, let us stand up for the Supreme Court. Mabuhay ang Kataas-taasang Hukuman ng Republika ng Pilipinas! (ManilaTimes.net)
Pilgrimage to Some of ITALY’s Highlights and Miracles of the Eucharist Nov 12, 2018 to Nov 22,2018 Spiritual Director REV.JOEL BUGAS
OCTOBER 18 to NOVEMBER 1, 2018 SPIRITUAL CHAPLAIN: REV. ANTONIO FLORES
Oct. 25, 2018 (Thursday) Day 8 - Jerusalem
said. Women and rights organizations have repeatedly slammed Duterte for his “vile remarks” toward women as these encourage objectification and other forms of violence against them. Duterte’s officials and supporters usually dismiss such comments as instances of “sarcasm” or part of the president’s supposed humor. Rep. Pia Cayetano (Taguig), who has pushed pro-women legislation in her stints in both houses of Congress, defended the president’s supposedly sexist remarks in March 2017, saying Duterte implemented programs in Davao City to protect women. “That’s how boys are and that’s okay with me because I’m in a gang of boys,” she said in the She Talks Asia forum last year. “But obviously, if it’s really wrong, I’ll tell them: ‘Medyo hindi naman maganda ‘yon’.” She said “that level of care that men should put in what they say obviously should go up, especially when they’re in public.” n
The quo warranto ruling...
Workers leveling mountain in Boracay? DILG stops all construction by emmanuel
Duterte has in the past hurled tirades at female government officials such as Vice President Leni Robredo, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and Morales. He recently appointed Bernadette Romulo-Puyat as the new Tourism chair, replacing Wanda Tulfo-Teo. Is Duterte afraid of women? Gabriela Women’s Party was incensed by Duterte’s antiwomen remark, saying it shows his “sick, macabre misogyny.” “What does President Duterte fear of women? Why is he so threatened by women? He pushed the ouster of a female chief justice, ordered troops to shoot female rebels in the vagina, told soldier to rape women in Marawi and even allowed the removal of a comfort woman statue from public’s sight,” it said in a statement. Every Woman, in a separate statement, said that the president’s comment “highlights the most disgusting aspects of Philippine machismo.” “There is someone here who is patently unfit for office. And it’s he, not a she,” the group
Day 1 – 12 Nov 2018 –(Mon) Day 2 – 13Nov 2018 – (Tues)
- USA - ROME - Rome Upon our arrival in Rome, our Tour Escort will welcome us to Italy. Rome is the heart, home and the spiritual capital of over one billion Catholics all over the world. After a short panoramic orientation of this Eternal City to us Roman Catholics, we will have our dinner and overnight rest at this great ancient City. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) Day 3 – 14 Nov 2018 (Wed) – Rome / Papal Audience/ Rome
This morning before we continue with our tour, we will have a Papal Audience. Then after, we will visit the famous Coliseum and see the Forum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, one of the best preserved ancient monuments in the world. Celebrate the Holy Eucharist at St Peter Basilica St Joseph Chapel .Short stop in Trevi Fountain, before heading to our Hotel DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) Day 4 – 15 Nov 2018 (Thurs) – Rome / Basilicas We will visit the Vatican Museum this morning and the Sistine Chapel to admire the awesome masterpieces of Michaelangelo, and even ancient Greek and Roman artists. the largest church in Roman Catholicism, St. Peter’s Basilica. Holy Eucharist at ST Mary Major, Followed by visit of the Basilica. We continue to visit the rest of the major Basilicas within the walls of Rome, and St. John Lateran, St Paul Outside the Wall. We will also pray at the Scala Santa or the Holy Stairs. St. Helena transported the steps from Jerusalem; the same steps that Christ ascended to receive Pilate’s unjust condemnation. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) Day 5 – 16 Nov 2018 (Fri)–Rome /San Giovanni Rotondo 2018 is the 100th Anniversary of the stigmatization of St Pio. Church Will have Monthly Pastoral Program of Activities for the whole year . San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of St Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July, 1916 until his death on 23 September, 1968. Enjoy the drive going to San Giovanni, after we check in our Hotel. We visit the Shrines of St Padre Pio of Pietralcina as well as the places associated with him , such as the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace that contains his tomb. Here, we spend some time meditating, see his room, his confessional box and the crucifix that gave him his supernatural Crucifying stigmata, Celebrate Holy Eucharist (Hotel Gran Paradiso ) DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN San Giovanni Rotondo (BB,D) Day 6 – 17 Nov 2018 (Sat) – SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO This Morning we visit the new and Modern Basilica of St Padre Pio, See his uncorrupt body .Celebrate Holy Eucharist Spend some time meditating in this awesomeBasilica.
DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO (Hotel Gran Paradiso) Day 7–18 Nov2018 – (Sun) – San Giovanni Rotondo / Lanciano /Loreto MASS AND BREAKFAST. We arrive at Lanciano, famous for the Miracle of the Eucharist. Near the Piazza Plebiscito, the Miracle is inside the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle. The miracle took place during the 8th century when a Basiline monk doubted the Real Presence of our Lord in the Eucharist. He found himself holding the host that had changed into Real Flesh and the Wine on the altar had changed into Real Blood. We continue our pilgrimage to the great Marian shrine of Loreto to see the famous sacred home of the most Holy Family, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Since 1294 the holy home has been located inside the Basilica of Loreto. Celebrate Holy Eucharist in Lanciano DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN Assisi Day 8 –19 Nov 2018 – ( Mon) Loreto/ Assisi Today we explore the hilltop birthplace of St Francis of Assisi. In the Crypt of St Francis Basilica lies the tomb of one of the most humble and beloved Saints of all times, St. Francis of Assisi, Holy Eucharist at the Crypt of ST Francis See the Basilica of St Clare, with her incorrupt body, and the little Church of St. Damiano and its Crucifix from which Jesus spoke to Francis about his mission in 1206: “Go, Francis, and rebuild my house, which as you see is falling into ruin.” We visit the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, located in the lower plains of Assisi, and the place where the miracle of the Eucharist of Assisi took place in 1240. The small Church of the Porziuncola is inside the Basilica itself. Pope Honorius III granted
a plenary indulgence for those entering this humble Church on August 1st and 2nd every year, with Confession, reception of the Eucharist and no attachment to venial sins. (BB,D) Day 9 – 20 Nov 2018 – (Tues) – Assisi / Siena / Florence We will spend half day in Siena. Begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of the Renaissance art and dedicated to St Catherine of Siena. You will learn about the city’s history while admiring it’s cathedrals, Museum, and libraries .Also you will admire the famous piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares. Continue to Florence. (BB,D) We start with a guided walking tour of Florence, this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist. Rest of the day free (BB,D) Day 10 – 21 Nov 2018 (Wed) – Florence / Rome Leave Florence around 2PM Arrived Rome almost dinner time (BB.D) Day 11 – 22 Nov 2018 (Thurs) – Rome / USA End of our wonderful Pilgrimage .
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An Asian Journal Magazine
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY M AY 1 8 , 20 1 8
Joshua Ang Price and his brand of politics:
Collaboration, not competition by MoMar
G. Visaya/AJPress
AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya
IF elected, Filipino-American Joshua Ang Price will make history in the state of Arkansas as its first Asian American state representative. The 38-year-old first time candidate is running for the House District 39 in the state come November, in the midterm elections that a lot of people are looking into. But before that, he needs to win the Democratic primary next week, May 22. Arkansas has not elected an Asian American despite its growing Asian American population of about 41,000 with nearly 5,000 Filipinos in the state. His district has about 30,000 residents and it has the highest concentration of Asian Americans in the state with around 2.7% of the population, composed mostly of Chinese and Vietnamese. “Filipinos though make up the largest portion of Asian Americans in the Little Rock, central Arkansas area because a lot of them have a same story as my mom. They were registered nurses recruited to work in rural parts of the state,” Price told the Asian Journal. Joshua’s mom Teresita Ang was born in Roxas City, Capiz in the Philippines. Most of her relatives are still in Roxas and Iloilo while some siblings are in Michigan and California. His dad Allen was born and raised in Arkansas and his family has lived there since the 1820s. The Price family is no stranger to local politics and public service. His dad’s mother – Frances Jean Price was the state’s first female Justice of the Peace of Pike County and held the position for 30 years until retirement. “She is the inspiration why I wanted to get involved in public service. During the 60s, there was a history of racism in Arkansas and she would allow African American couples to get married inside her home. That was a time when it was just not the norm and segregation was still a thing,” he shared. While his minor in college was political science and public administration, the aspiring politician began considering a career in politics only four or five years ago. Joshua owns Hybrid Strategies, a Central Arkansasbased communications and public relations consulting firm specializing in economic and community development projects, nonprofit organizations, women and minority-owned small businesses, and government
communications and policy. He formerly served as the digital communications manager and special policy advisor for the Delta Regional Authority, an independent federal agency with the mission to improve economic opportunities in communities across an eight-state region along the Mississippi River. “I got to work with the governors of those eight states and that was a good experience. It helped met get a good top down perspective,” he shared. Childhood and growing up “It was different. I don’t remember a lot of racism directed towards me, I was more of a curiosity. I was like the token Asian because there were no Asian kids in my school growing up,” Joshua shared. “I never had Asian classmates or peers.” That curiosity about him continued even when he grew up as an adult, but he understood where that came from. He learned to take it in stride knowing that it wasn’t coming from a place where they were being hateful or negative. They were just curious because they were not exposed to Asians before. His mother inculcated in him and his sister their Filipino side. “It was very important to my mom that my sister and I were exposed to Filipino culture because we were so separated and there wasn’t really a Filipino community there back then,” he said. Joshua and his younger sister both speak Visayan. “I have cousins in California who live in areas with big Filipino population like Milpitas and they don’t speak the language because their parents wanted them to assimilate,” he added. Plans “If I am to be elected, the people I’m representing, they’re my boss, they’re my employer, I’m the employee, if I don’t do a good job, they can write me up, they can fire me, at the end of the day I’m there to serve, serve the needs of the community,” Price said. “I have a unique perspective, that helps me get a foot in the door. Arkansas is still very sheltered and it is still not very diverse,” he added. 83 out the 100 members of the state legislature are white men and there’s only one female African-
For Mother’s Day, Joshua Ang Price wrote the following on his Facebook account in honor of his mom and the sacrifices she made - “My mother immigrated to the United States from the Philippines in the 70’s to escape martial law -- tanks and armed soldiers roamed the streets, there was a 9 PM curfew, there were only two TV stations that were both government controlled, and she didn’t see a newspaper for three years. She couldn’t envision raising her future family in such an oppressive environment, so when she got the opportunity to come to America through a recruitment program looking for registered nurses in rural towns, she took it and was placed in Murfreesboro, AR where she later met and married my father. I truly admire my mother’s strength and courage to come to our great nation alone at the age of 25 in search of a better life. Thank you for the sacrifices you made to ensure that I would enjoy all the freedoms and opportunities you didn’t have. Happy Mother’s Day. I love you and will do my very best to make you proud.”
American. Price was a delegate for Hillary Clinton in 2016 at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. At the DNC, he realized that the state had no Asian caucus at all so he went to the officials and asked what needs to be done to start one. He became the first President of the Asian American Pacific Islander Democratic Caucus of Arkansas, of which he is also the co-founder. In this role, Joshua also serves on the Democratic Party of
Arkansas State Committee. Price is offering a multi-level platform that would serve his district, which he says is the most affluent in the state, with $82,000 average household income (as opposed to the state average with $34,000). Among his priorities are improved infrastructure (roads, bridges, water/sewer and broadband internet) to attract new businesses and create jobs and growing small businesses through supporting initiatives that assist
Joshua Ang Price with Aries dela Cruz, Manhattan Regional Representative for New York State Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya
local entrepreneurs. “I would love to see access to internet broadband across the state. My dad’s family is from the southwest part of the state and they still don’t have internet access there. I can get on my phone and Skype with family in the Philippines but I can’t even call my dad’s family in Arkansas who are just two hours away,” he said with an incredulous tone. “To me, that doesn’t make sense. Providing internet is crucial to providing education and economic opportunities in the state.” According to a study he mentioned, about 16 of the seats are flippable, his district included. The incumbent is a Republican who has been the district representative for six years now. “Call it “blue wave” or “Trump effect”, I think people are disillusioned and dissatisfied and
they are looking for something new. I have been so actively involved in the community and I want to tell the constituents that I am someone who is accessible, they call or email me and if they have an issue, we can talk about it,” he said. And that is the brand of politics that Joshua Ang Price wants to be known for. He wants to be collaborative. “I am a Democrat who is someone who can work with my colleagues across the aisle to get things done, specially right now in Arkansas where the Republicans have the super-majority in the House, with 76 out the 100 seats,” he added. “If I have to put my pride on the side and swallow my ego a little bit to get the job done for the people I am representing, then that’s what I’m going to do.”
‘Explore Islands Philippines’ asks tourists to discover, experience and explore PH tourism event highlights country’s 7,641 islands
ing along with guests from the Philippines – Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Cesar Montano, Deputy COO Maricon Ebron, Philippine Airlines VP for Marketing Ria Domingo, among others. A gala event, attended by more than 200 travel and tourism professionals in New York, was also held at the Roosevelt Hotel where lucky guests won round trip tickets to the Philippines, hotel accommodations in El Nido and Coron in Palawan, Panglao Island in Bohol and resorts in Cebu. The evening’s highlight was the 45-minute fashion show Continued on Page 4
Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia and Serbia wearing a Filipiniana Teodoro Locsin, Jr. (third from left) with Ambassador Mario L. de Leon, Jr. terno created by Renee Salud with Ambassador Mario L. de Leon, (second from left), Mrs. Eleanor de Leon (left) and Ms. Loida Nicolas-Lewis Jr. and Mrs. Eleanor de Leon at the Unity Gala of the Friends of the Philippine Society USA. Photos by Boyet Loverita
Jerry Sibal, DOT-NY Tourism Attaché Susan Del Mundo, Ms. Louie Locsin, Ambassador Teodoro Locsin, Jr., Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia and Serbia, Tourism Promotions Board Cesar Montano, Carl Nelson, TPB Deputy COO Maricon Ebron, Loida Nicolas Lewis, ABC-7’s Nina Pineda and Edwin Josue after the ribbon-cutting ceremony opening Explore Islands Philippines at the Grand Central Terminal in New York City.
Ruben and Janet Nepales, the only Filipino members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, receive their award from Miss Saigon star JonJon Briones at the Unity Gala celebrating the birth of the Friends of the Philippine Society USA led by Jerry Sibal and Edwin Josue. Also in photo are the evening’s co-hosts - ABC-7’s Nina Pineda and Sandra Bookman. Photo by Boyet Loverita
Ruben and Janet Nepales
FOR four days last week, the world-famous and iconic Grand Central Terminal in New York City was the home of the 7,641 islands of the Philippines – as “Explore Islands Philippines,” a major project to promote Philippine tourism was held at the Vanderbilt Hall after a grand kickoff celebration opening the expo on Wednesday, May 9. Philippine Mission to the United Nations Permanent Representative, Ambassador Teodoro Locsin, PH Department of Tourism New York attaché Susan del Mundo and Economic Affairs Minister Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga from the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC led the open-
Immigration Corner
June 2018 priority dates Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
October 8, 2007
March 22, 2006
September 22, 2017
June 8, 2016
(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder
September 8, 2007
January 15, 2007
Third Preference
Married sons and daughters of US Citizens
July 22, 1995
April 8, 1995
Fourth Preference
Brothers and sisters of US Citizens
October 15, 1995
February 22, 1995
Application Filing Date
Visa Issuance Date
Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)
First Preference
EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card.
(2A) Spouse and Second Preference minor children (below 21 years old) of green card holder
LABOR CERTIFICATION:
Second Preference
Advanced Degree (Masters)
Current
Current
Third Preference
Professional/ Skilled Workers
July 1, 2017
January 1, 2017
Other Workers
Non-Skilled Workers
July 1, 2017
*** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a
January 1, 2017
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 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
Fraud Waiver Denial turned around to Approval with No Fraud Waiver Required, on this Sunday’s CITIZEN PINOY! Wilma entered the U.S. on a C-1 “transit” visa, on her way to work in Guantanamo, Cuba. She remained in the U.S., married a U.S. citizen, and filed for adjustment of status. A “consultant” gave her hope and said he would take care of Wilma’s papers. Unfortunately, the consultant altered Wilma’s documents and put down false information (that she entered on a visitor’s visa), to cover up that she actually entered on a C-1 transit visa. Her case ended up being denied because of fraud! Wilma then consulted with the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel, who took over the case, and filed an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) in Washington, DC. Atty Gurfinkel convinced them that Wilma committed no fraud, and was eligible for a green card, despite her entry on a transit visa. Watch how Atty. Gurfinkel’s determination won the day for Wilma, when her name was cleared, and she got her green card with no fraud waiver required, on an encore episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.
Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond
(Advertising Supplement)
Gary V on a break to get his groove back by MJ Marfori
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY M AY 1 8 , 20 1 8
The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: FAMILY CATEGORY:
Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ
Monette AdevA MAGlAyA (Continued from last week …)
TRUST your own instincts. Your own personal experience SHOwBIz and the rest of the will color the lens with which you nation were shocked exactly a view and relate with your personal week ago when news broke out guardian angel. God so loved the that beloved OPM singer Gary world, He sent His only son to Valenciano had undergone an redeem us from sin and death so emergency heart surgery from a we may gain eternal life. Angels blocked artery. are sent to help us during our who would have thought time here on earth towards this that Mr. Pure Energy, a cyclist arduous journey to eternal life. and fitness buff to boot, would The Holy Spirit cameto guide have to endure such a scare? us and enlighten us. But on the Like he said in his open micro, day-by-day level, God letter, even he was surprised sent us our personal guardian when he found out about his angels from conception, birth, condition, more so his family. throughout our life and our Continued on Page 4 Gary Valenciano with his wife Angeli and sons Paolo and Gab. Photo from Instagram/@angelipv passage from death to eternal life ManilaTimes.net
3
An Asian Journal Magazine
Angels among us (Third of 4 parts)
“ I think we all do have a guardian angel. I believe they work through us all the time, when we are thoughtful and good and kind to each other” – Roma Downey as a constant presence. Come to think of it, every time an unborn life is cut down, the murder deprives an angel of his purpose. There must be some cosmic angst and turmoil in the heavens. There must be anguish and pain, a disturbance, not only on earth but also in the celestial realm. Some say God created so many angels, one cannot count the number of angels that can stand on the head of a pin. But there is a caveat to this gift from the Almighty. One must
accept the gift and use the gift of the presence of angels in one’s life for good and only good. One must be humble of heart to know that by ourselves we can do nothing of real value to ourselves or our loved ones and ultimately find God in our lives without asking in earnest for help from the spiritual, unseen realm of angels. Yes, the key is to ask for help for one to receive it. Also, one must never take the gift of a personal guardian angel Continued on Page 4
An Asian Journal Magazine
4
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY m AY 1 8 , 20 1 8
On the PEP Front
People, Events, Places BoBBy T. yalong THE strange fading in the number of entertainment producers hereabouts gave diminished leisurely activities around town leaving concertgoers with no choice but to settle for home movies and outdoor fun. The unexpected paucity of concert producers could possibly be due to the high cost of production packages that previously incurred voluminous pecuniary loss
Ogie and Melissa Mendoza: Destined to a lifetime partnership on their part and the indolence of others to take that excruciating travel time to the concert venues. Call it ambitious and ruthless but dipping one’s hand into concert production is one hell of an investment. Just like any other businesses, it takes a heart of stone and a strappingly driven will-power to be able to sustain the painstaking demands of this trade… not to mention the related convolution and intense day-to-day quandaries one has to face. All these and more await on the
Edwin Josue, Ruben Nepales, Janet Nepales and Jerry Sibal
‘Explore Islands Philippines’... From Page 2
Entertainment producing couple Ogie and Mel Mendoza
A souvenir shot from MEP’s latest producton with Sarah Geronimo, Mark Bautista and Sam Concepcion.
Photo by Boyet Loverita
lap of the producer concerned and to minimize the pressure of burden, a production is normally operated by more than one individual. Investors or partners are invited to form a solid power to activate and control the established entity. Since the dawn of time, the partnership of husband and wife had existed and “living” together beyond the environs of their domicile wasn’t new at all. The
couple’s tandem builds a more intimate relationship that becomes the paramount foundation to accomplish amazing things and achieve unimaginable success drawn from a common interest. Despite the current bleak trend and dubious scenario, husband and wife tandem of Roberto “Ogie” Mendoza and Melissa Rubio Mendoza dauntlessly faced the Continued on Page 6
called Philippine Tapestry where models paraded on the runway wearing gowns and barong Tagalog designed by world-renowned designer and Philippine Ambassador of Fashion Renee Salud using indigenous weaves, fabrics and materials. Explore Islands Philippines celebrated arts and culture on the final two days, Friday and Saturday, May 11-12, showcasing artists and artisans from the U.S. and the Philippines. Day 3’s program included presentations from the Cultural Center of the Philippines, a performance by Kinding Sindaw, culinary tourism, Philippine weavers, artisans and fashion. Hollywood power couple Ruben and Janet Nepales also talked about trends in films and location sites in the Philippines. Friends of the Philippines Society USA Makes Its Debut Later that evening, the Nepales couple received an award at the Unity Gala of the Friends of Philippine Society USA held at Cipriani’s on 42nd Street. Ruben Nepales, former Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Janet Nepales, current Executive Secretary of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association were honored alongside Governor Andrew Cuomo for his contribution to diversity and inclusion in the state of New York. Miss Saigon and The Assassination of Gianni Versace star JonJon Briones presented the award to the power couple and paid tribute to the couple’s efforts in promoting Filipino artists across America. “Ruben and Janet may have left the Philippines a long time ago but they have never forgotten their bayanihan spirit. They will lift you up so you can be
PH Tapestry Fashion Show at the Unity Gala
standing here you should be,” Briones said, explaining further that the couple always supports Filipino Americans in the entertainment business in whatever way they can. “I am deeply grateful and honored for this award,” Janet Nepales exclaimed as she received her award. “I am very proud to be standing here as a Filipina, a woman, a minority, representing the Philippines at the Hollywood Foreign Press as executive secretary and I am proud of that.” “I thank JonJon because it is Filipinos and Filipino American talents like him inspire Janet and me to tell their stories because we have to spotlight the Filipino talent,” Ruben said. “I often say that if nobody writes these stories, who will? So while we write about Hollywood talents, I am happiest when I am writing about Filipinos and Filipino Americans making it on the world stage.” Committed to empowering diversity and integrating multiculturalism, the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization aims to promote understanding and cross-cultural collaboration in the global milieu. Proceeds of the Unity Gala will support programs designed to provide meaningful exchange of opportunities, connections and information in educational, cultural, business and social context enhancing appreciation of the Philippines and United States and strengthening national and international alliances. Among the highlights of the evening were the mini-fashion shows that highlighted the creations of two of the most famous names in the Philippine fashion industry – Renee Salud and Rocky Gathercole.
AJPress photo by Troi Santos
Angels among... From Page 3 for granted. An angel is an invisible presence that must be acknowledged to become ever stronger. God sends angels to keep watch over human beings and help them in every human challenge. There is, however, the element of free will in humans. You can acknowledge the presence of angels or deny it. It is your choice ultimately. The
more angels are acknowledged and become a conduit to heaven, they become a hovering, guiding reality in one’s life growing ever stronger in their influence to shape every thought, word and deed in one’s life. (To be continued …) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com
Gary V on a break... From Page 3 Gary V.’s eldest son Paolo, who is now a successful concert director, told In the Know that it was the most alarming thing that has happened to them. “We were used to dad taking care of us, being there for us, so it definitely felt different to see him on the hospital bed especially after the operation,” he began. “When we were kids, he would be the one to dote on us when we got sick.” Paolo and his siblings are also amazed how their mom Angeli is handling the situation. “My mom, she’s really the strong one in the family right now. She was there right before the procedure, and since it was the first time in our family to have that serious a problem, it was my mom who kept us all together—Gab, Kiana and I. This whole challenge really strengthened this family.” It was Gary V. who decided to go for a check-up when he suddenly felt a different kind of pain in his chest following a
performance. According to Paolo, it was good his dad listened to his body and saw a doctor. “We’re very thankful that he didn’t have a heart attack. We’re very thankful that we caught it early, and that’s what the doctors are telling us. Buti na lang he felt a little tightness, kung hindi, it would have been a different story.” As the family saw to arrangements for the emergency operation, Gary V.’s staff went ahead to cancel dozens of shows lined up in his calendar both here and abroad. According to his doctors, recuperation time is very important and it will take Gary V. at least four months to get his groove back. If there’s one lesson they learned from the whole ordeal, it’s how early detection can really make a difference, said Paolo. He shared his dad also promised to talk about what he went through when he’s all better.
Melania Trump’s ‘grace 5 under pressure’ through the president’s controversies Heart Evangelista looks forward to being a ‘better mom’ An Asian Journal Magazine
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY M AY 1 8 , 20 1 8
BY MONET
LU
MELANIA Trump’s ‘grace under pressure’ through the president’s controversies I guess it is fair to say that 2018 has been a tough year for Melania Trump. Well, who am I kidding; it must be really hard to be President Donald Trump’s wife. Period. Since her husband’s campaign up to his election as president, controversies seem to follow Trump everywhere. And just recently, an unprecedented FBI raid on the office, home and hotel room of the president’s personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, was done to execute a search warrant seeking incriminating documents. It ended in verbal and Twitter fisticuffs between the president and former FBI Director James Comey. The release of Comey’s new book and memos which he wrote last year has plunged the United States of America into yet another round of speculation about whether the Russian government taped Donald Trump watching prostitutes urinate on a hotel bed in Moscow in 2013. The allegation is that in 2013, Trump hired “a number of prostitutes to perform a ‘golden shower’ (urination) show in front of him,” aimed at “defiling” the bed of the Ritz-Carlton’s presidential suite, because Barack and Michelle Obama had previously slept in that bed. (Note that the claim is not that Trump participated in this display, but rather that he requested and watched it). Then the implication — although it’s not explicitly stated — is that Russia’s intelligence service, the FSB, recorded all this with “microphones and concealed cameras” so it could later be used for “kompromat” and “blackmail” material over Trump if necessary. And let’s not forget the revelations surrounding the president and adult film star Stormy Daniels. Ms. Daniels alleges she and Mr. Trump had an affair starting in 2006, and that he has been trying to keep it quiet ever since. A lawyer for Ms. Daniels made claims of a cover-up, and others have raised questions about potentially illegal campaign payments. The president denies all the allegations but this controversy was
Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS PART of a healthy lifestyle that we have been discussing all along in this column the past two decades is the maintenance of proper dental care. Today, more than ever, people who are cosmetic-conscious are taking advantage of the “miracles” of dental veneers. What are dental veneers? Dental veneers are very thin pieces of custom designed porcelain, or plastic teeth laminates or “jackets or shells” (very precisely tailored to match individual patient’s needs) that are glued over “honed-down and prepared” teeth, often an alternative to crowns. Sometimes, only the front of the tooth needs porcelain laminates for a cosmetic look. The resultant naturally looking, well-aligned, whiter, more evenlyspaced teeth provide for that much sought-after cosmetically perfect smile. Dental veneers are most popular among people of all walks of life and profession who are aesthetic-conscious, and not only among actors and actresses and other public performers. Dental veneers are made of either very thin porcelain (more expensive but has greater longevity, 10-15 years or more) or plastic or composite (cheaper and lasts 5-7 years). Who are candidates for dental veneers? Dental veneers are cure for crooked, odd, or misshapen (too big or too small) teeth, chipped teeth or those with pits or holes, severely discolored enamels, or for uneven or unwanted spaces. Not everyone is a candidate for dental veneer. If confused, get a second opinion, to avoid regrets later for not having it done or for having it done. What causes dental discoloration? The discoloration of the teeth enamel can be due to chemical damage, staining or aging. Common causes are medications
by CLARIZEL ABANILLA
were having twins during her first ultrasound; however, they IF there’s one thing actress unfortunately lost one of the Heart Evangelista had learned twins. about motherhood this early on Evangelista posted a photo in her pregnancy, “it’s that it won’t of her ultrasound showing two always be sunshine and butterflies, embryos and their development. sometimes there will be cloudy “Unfortunately one of the moments,” she shared on her embryos was smaller and behind Instagram account on Thursday, in terms of development and May 17. so we lost one of the twins. Our The actress revealed that hearts were heavy at the thought she and husband Sen. Francis but we knew we had to focus on “Chiz” Escudero found out they the good,” she wrote. Inquirer.net
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump on Monday, May 7 pose with children following the announcement of the first lady’s “Be Best” initiative, an awareness campaign Official White House photo by Andrea Hanks dedicated to the well-being of children.
reported as having been the final straw and has sparked reports that the Trump and his wife first were effectively living separate lives, and Melania was said to be on the brink of leaving her husband. Though I have yet to confirm the truthfulness of the latter. Meanwhile, as Trump’s supporters have ignored the story, along with allegations of sexual assault and the infamous Access Hollywood tape, the Stormy Daniels case, I cannot help but admire how Melania Trump handles the situation, and her marriage, to say the least. I have to say that what saves this administration is the ‘grace under pressure’ that Melania has exhibited all these years. Come to think of it, the first lady’s marriage to Donald Trump has been through heavy scrutiny because of these allegations of extramarital affairs that the president has repeatedly engaged in during their 15 years of marriage. Yet while most of America knows about the state of their marriage and the ‘life under scrutiny’ that comes with being Donald Trump’s wife, the former model kept a fairly low profile during the election campaign, and we see surprisingly little-to-noviolent reactions from her amidst these scandals – how’s that for a real-life Olivia Pope? I can’t imagine how she can still look poised and composed when I would have been fed up with all these shenanigans. Can somebody please give this woman a trophy? I also admired how the first lady conducted herself when she and her husband welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Bridgette. As CNN put it: “Without
speaking a word, dressed in a white Michael Kors Collection asymmetrical blazer and skirt — and an eye-catching, custommade Hervé Pierre hat — Melania Trump spoke volumes. This was her house, her dinner and her terms…. In many ways, the events showcased Melania Trump’s contrasts with her husband — where he is impulsive, she is meticulous; where he is combative, she is compassionate.” I had no doubt that this is how the first lady would handle the visit. After all, she is wellacquainted with the Bushes, Clintons and Obamas, which for me, is a very wise decision on her part. She may not be as articulate (as others kept saying) compared to Michelle Obama, but she is at par with them in terms of composure, grace and most of all, fashion sense. I cannot stress it enough – the well-known adage that “behind every man’s success is a woman.” And while I do not condone the ‘alleged’ infidelities that our dear president is involved in, I can only wish that we give credit where credit is due and take a look at this fine young lady who (for all I know) is doing everything she can to keep it together for the sake of the country she swore to lead alongside her husband. *** 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 allnatural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com
That perfect smile (tetracycline, etc.), cigarettes, coffee, tea, cola drinks, red wine, and “dark” foods. Genetics also plays a role. Some people are born with darker enamel and others with brighter teeth. How are the teeth prepared? After detailed inspection and evaluation, the cosmetic dentist will discuss the plan and the actual procedure with the patient. Whether only one tooth or two, or both the upper and lower front sets, are involved, it usually takes about 2 to 3 visits to complete the office procedure. After the patient understands and agrees, a dental mould (an impression of the patient’s teeth) is taken. This will create a 3-dimentional replica of the patient’s complete upper and lower sets of teeth and gums, representing the status of the teeth pre-veneer implants. Topical anesthesia is then applied with a cotton swab over the areas of the gums to be anesthetized. This numbs those areas in a minute or two. Injection with lidocaine anesthetic agent into the appropriate gum area involved is subsequently performed using a very skinny 30-gauge needle to properly render the teeth involved totally pain-free when manipulated or drilled, or even extracted (if necessary). The problem teeth are buffed, honed down, and reduced in size to accommodate the veneer jacket over the teeth, maintaining the original over-all size and natural bite of the original teeth. After the reduction/preparation of the teeth, another impression mold is taken, which will be used in custom designing and creation of the permanent veneer. What are temporary veneers and metal casings? After the preparation and the second mold (which is the impression of the honed-down teeth), a temporary set of veneers made of plastic is made and available in about 4-6 hours. The patient comes back that same afternoon for the temporary veneers, which is to be worn over the prepared teeth while waiting
for the creation of the permanent veneers. The subsequent implantation many times includes a Talladium metal casing that is placed and glued over each honeddown tooth. Over this metal shell, the wafer-thin porcelain veneer (which will have the appearance of the final tooth) is glued (using glass ionnmerluting cement) and capped onto it like a deep hat, completely hiding the metal. This Talladium component provides added strength and durability to the veneered tooth. The perfect fit will maintain the normal bite and normal dental comfort of the individual. How long do veneers last? The veneers are strong and durable, and if properly cared for, they could last up to 10 to 15 years. They cost less than crowns, won’t stain, and come in various shades of colors that will brighten dark teeth and will not change or fade. Porcelain veneers cannot stand excessive forces or sharp impacts. Biting on hard objects, like hair pins, fingernails, battle caps, bones, or any other hard items, are to be avoided because this could crack or dislodge veneers. Those into sports must wear a protective mouth guard. Those who clench and grind their teeth (termed “brux”) must control this habit of bruxism. A plastic night guard for the teeth can be worn to protect the porcelain veneer from breaking during sleep. What are the color choices? The usual goal is to have whiter teeth, if discoloration is the reason for the veneer. If only one or two teeth are involved, the color of the veneer should obviously match the color of the other teeth. If both the front upper and lower sets are to have veneers, the choice depends on the complexion of the person, hair color, eye color and the color of your natural teeth. The idea is to have the brightest and yet naturally-looking teeth, and not fake or artificial looking super white teeth. The orthodontist has a shade chart (Vita Shade Guide) for patients to choose from. The Continued on Page 6
Heart Evangelista with husband Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero Photos from Instagram/@iamhearte
“This is the first photo of the twins where you can see the other embryo who is healthy and showing more positive signs of development,” she added. But instead of focusing on the heartbreaking news, the actress channeled the pain into positivity and regarded the experience as something she could learn from to be a better mom. “We now have a little angel up there and I trust that God is with us on this beautiful journey. I have to thank my wonderful husband Heart shared on her Instagram that her first ultrasound showed two embryos, however, they who really has been my partner through it all,” she wrote. lost on of the twins because “it was smaller and behind in developmnet”.
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The Asian American Group to celebrate first annual Asian Culture Day in Las Vegas On Friday, May 18, the Asian American Group (AAG) will celebrate the first annual Asian Culture Day. The event will be held at the Conference Center of Las Vegas (6590 Bermuda Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119), and will start at 6 p.m. There will be a variety of Asian dishes and cultural performances at the celebration. The primary goal of the Asian Culture Day celebration is to invite and unite the Asian nations of the world, and to educate and share their respective cultures in order to achieve greater understanding and fellowship between nations. The annual Asian Culture Day was established by Senate Bill 175, which proclaims every 18th of May as Asian Culture Day in the state of Nevada. The bill was introduced and authored by State Senator Scott Hammond, and was signed into law by Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval last year. The bill gives recognition to the Asians and Asian-Americans who were instrumental in the settlement and early development of the State of Nevada; the culture and traditions shared by Asians and Asian-Americans; and the Asian and Asian-American communities that continue to make important contributions to the cultural, religious, political, and business environment. To purchase tickets visit https://www.asianamericangroup.org/saac-2/.
Makati Nights in Los Angeles On Friday, May 18, the Asian American Group (AAG) will celebrate the first annual Asian Culture Day. The event will be held at the Conference Center of Las Vegas (6590 Bermuda Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89119), and will start at 6 p.m. There will be a variety of Asian dishes and cultural performances at the celebration. The primary goal of the Asian Culture Day celebration is to invite and unite the Asian nations of the world, and to educate and share their respective cultures in order to achieve greater understanding and fellowship between nations. The annual Asian Culture Day was established by Senate Bill 175, which proclaims every 18th of May as Asian Culture Day in the state of Nevada. The bill was introduced and authored by State Senator Scott Hammond, and was signed into law by Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval last year. The bill gives recognition to the Asians and Asian-Americans who were instrumental in the settlement and early development of the State of Nevada; the culture and traditions shared by Asians and Asian-Americans; and the Asian and Asian-American communities that continue to make important contributions to the cultural, religious, political, and business environment. To purchase tickets visit https://www.asianamericangroup.org/saac-2/.
Case for Kids Fundraiser in Tracy, CA The Mountain House Rotary Club and the Central Valley Oil-Am Business Club will host a fundraiser for Case for Kids on Friday, May 18 via “The 6ix, A Comedy Show” at The Grant Bar & Lounge (2706 Pavilion Parkway, #101) in Tracy, CA. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Case for Kids is a nonprofit organization that donates a customized case for kids run foster care. The customized cases are packed with new clothes, bedding, toiletry items, stuffed animals and ageappropriate Christian books for each child. Hosted by TV/radio reporter and anchor Yvette Fernandez, the featured comedians performing in this event include Dennis Gaxiola (Comedy Central/BET/Fox), Joe Hughes, Frankie Marcos, Jason Sohm and Pryanka Wali. Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.com; for more information on the event, call event coordinator Leilani Opiana at (209) 221-1158 (lanfon0610@gmail.com) or Joe Hughes at (925) 727-9996 (thevinylthought@yahoo.com).
M AY 1 9
Long Beach community health fair On Saturday, May 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the public is invited to the Long Beach Community Health Fair. All services are free, including mammograms, HIV/STI tests, Hepatitis B & C testing, blood pressure. It will be at the Cambodian American United Methodist Church (1700 Temple Ave., Long Beach, CA 90804). For more information, please contact Koy Parada at (818) 599-9132 / kparada@apu.edu.
Pan Asian Citizenship Event in LA Come to the Pan Asian Citizenship Event on Saturday, May 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at East Los Angeles Service Center (133 N. Sunol Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90063). Appointments are required. No walk-ins. Start your application today to be a U.S. citizen! Visit www.citizenshipnow.net or call: Tagalog: (855) 300-2552 or English: (888) 349-9695.
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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An Asian Journal Magazine
Ogie and Melissa Mendoza...
The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY M AY 1 8 , 20 1 8
Jake Zyrus embarks on a new musical journey By Jerry
Donato Philstar.com
IN “I Am Jake Zyrus”, he has introduced a new singer — a stark contrast from that power-ballad old self. With “Music & Me”, Jake gives audiences a sneak peek into his now musical journey, banking on his beautiful raspy, deeper voice (“Boses nagbibinata” as one puts it in the vernacular). “It will be more specific with (music) genres,” Jake gave media friends a heads-up of his (26th) birthday-and-(10th) anniversary concert on May 25 at the Skydome. “If we do jazz, the arrangement will not be fused with pop. It will literally be jazz,” he said. “If we do classical, we’ll stick to it.” This speaks of his eclectic musical preference these days. “I enjoy singing different genres,” Jake clarified. “With the record label that I’m working with now, I trust them (the people behind it) with what genre they think will fit me (my voice).” Since he is transitioning into a full-fledged transman, Jake feels like he is starting all over again. Part of that phase is his vision of himself as a recording artist. Jake would like to be a “recognizable” artist, yes with a distinct voice and a body of work, similar to that of Michael Jackson (the King of Pop) and Nirvana (a rock icon). “Singing different genres, I enjoy it because I’m also exploring (my musicality),” he said. “If I will be asked to choose (what genre)… I enjoy the most — although everybody knows me as a pop singer — is madamdaming kanta (emotional songs). Pop-ballad or ballad, I enjoy singing either of the two.” With his low-register voice, Jake listens to such artists as Josh Groban, Martin Nievera, Frank Sinatra and Shawn Mendes. “My inspiration, especially his song In My Blood,” Jake said of the Canadian singer-songwriter. “I’m still transitioning, the raspy voice remains there, (and it is) definitely deeper. I enjoy playing with my lowregister notes.” One can think of Jake crooning Josh Groban’s “You Raise Me Up” and “To Where You Are”, and
Jake is banking on his beautifully raspy, deeper voice in his recent musical journey,
Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight” and “Fly Me to the Moon”. According to Jake, his tale as a singer is “a struggle and challenging.” He quickly added, “I enjoy (my voice) because I get to sing the songs that I want. I have to be careful with keys (my vocals) and (I have to) adjust (place) my voice in comfortable keys.” Like everyone else, Jake has had his own fair share of highs — and lows in life. “I reached that point in time when I had difficulty opening it up to even friends,” he said of his bout with depression. “Thinking about it now, it was my mistake (for not being vocal about it). It’s really important that you talk about it. (When I was) in the U.S., I also struggled opening up even to my therapist (psychologist). Parang may wall… (you know) you’re afraid of what people might think about you. (It’s) better when you meet someone who has experienced
what you’re going through.” Jake has recovered from that through a circle of friends that encourages him to share his stories, listens to him without any judgment and understands his plight. “Sabi nga nila na once you talk about it, it gets better,” he said. Depression, Jake shared, is common to some (if not most) members of the LGBT community because they seek for acceptance and respect. With that, Jake is excited to share a soon-to-bereleased song that will inspire those who are in the same situation and want to overcome it. Jake, hands-down, is one of those artists that represent the LGBT community and can use their status to get to know more about this sector of society. As for “Music & Me”, Kyla, Jessica Sanchez and Iñigo Pascual will join Jake on stage. Director is Calvin Neria while musical director is Adonis Tabanda.
ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ
From Page 4 challenge, unmindful of dispiriting words from fretful associates, and hand-in-hand they established Mountaintop Productions, LLC. “Actually it was somewhat to give way to my husband’s inclination towards music. He has that innate fascination and love of music… although we were already involved in a few concert productions earlier,” Mel shared, readily clearing the air in between sips of iced tea. “We started as merely coproducers with Luxen Entertainment, an LA-based production company owned by a friend… just to test the waters. We have staged concerts that featured Basil Valdez, JaDine loveteam, Erik Santos and Angeline Quinto, and The Stylistics… and found out it was emotionally fulfilling and lucrative, as well,” Ogie said, instantaneously augmenting his wife’s statement. Commonly, silent competition and power struggles often arise between people in cases like this but not with Ogie and Mel. The dynamics and tensions of working together could swing out of control at any given situation especially upon coming home from work and family matters have to be addressed simultaneously. How does the Mendoza couple face such situation? “In times like these, we tried to keep our cool and prioritize what is best. We handle it with utmost caution and keenness,” Mel replied glancing at Ogie who merely cast a wink in conformity. It is inevitable to incur conflicts between couple partners where addressing it is indispensable in order to keep communications open for harmonious set-up and smooth implementation and operation. What could be their secret formula to relentlessly staying pleasantly together? The couple exchanged meaningful momentary looks as if trying to gauge who’d react first… then Ogie took the table. “There’s no secret formula in harmoniously handling a partnership business, it’s all about knowing each other’s capability, aware of each other’s responsibility, setting together the company’s aims and goals, and acknowledging each other’s idea and suggestions.” Mel, who was zealously all ears to every word her husband had to say, couldn’t just remain silent and blurted in a low but audible tone. “If I may add, we both have to swallow our own ego and pride sometimes and realized how much better the business would be with each other’s input. We also try - not really try - but earnestly compliment one’s strong point,” she added to fortify her hubby’s pronouncement. Many would want to believe that the couple behind Mountaintop has good organizational dexterousness instinctively equipped with a diplomatic demeanor and great marketing skills due to the unprecedented successes of their produced concerts: Regine Velasquez-Ogie Alcasid at the Townhall in Times Square and just recently, “This 15 Me” (Sarah Geronimo) at the Colden Auditorium in Queens, NY. Personally, I guess their inherent charisma and tactful interpersonal relations facilitated a lot to catapult them where they are as the current most thriving show producers. Although this writer has long been aware how concert production runs but for the benefit of acquiring more information and personal know-how, I curiously queried about how the enterprising duo operates the business. “Actually, we rely on our instincts and initially figure out the concept and full repertoire of the show being offered by the promoter before greatly relying on concert-goers’ opinion,” Mel started with exactitude and calmness, and continued: “I believe the public’s pulse has to be taken with utmost consideration since they are the ones who would patronize the show. Then, once cleared with the possibility of accepting the offer we scout for the perfect venue that is accessible to the public and that meets the demands of the production.”
Celebrity couple Ogie and Regine Velasquez Alcasid with producer couple and their children.
A random shot during Sarah G’s finale number
“We are literally hands-on in all aspects and in the entire process of production. I like to believe we are not really good at it but we’re gradually learning the ropes of the trade… and getting familiar with every detail, the pros and cons, and having the real “feel” of it now,” Ogie, who has been just calm and listening, appended with candor. After all has been assessed from project management, booking big name stars, budgeting, marketing, talent procurement, venue, technical aspect, ticketing, security, sponsorship, logistics, legal matters, and other demands of production, Ogie and Mel could not just be in a corner and wait for what will ensue. “Believe it or not but I handled backstage situation to ensure a smooth flow of the show, supervised the technical and staffing aspects and attended to the last minute changes. I could not afford to stay unruffled in a nook. But what gave me a sigh of relief was when I peeped through the curtains and saw a full-packed audience. Instantly I regained strength and my spirits soared high,” Mel said, sounding thrilled but controlled. After an almost five-month project preparation and execution, how does the couple get rewarded? Ogie voluntarily responded hastily. “Being able to achieve our goals, box-office-wise, is already a significant feat we’ll try to replicate in our next project. It was a rewarding accomplishment for all our efforts and hard work. But the sweet feel of success could only be fully appreciated when shared with the people who helped us in the promotion and production. We duly recognized everybody’s effort that contributed to the success of the show. We celebrated it with an intimate gathering at home,” he said. Mel won’t be left unheard. “Upon reaching another significant milestone and as soon as we settled every post-production responsibility we are accountable of, we took a breather and enjoyed the thanksgiving celebration with family, staff, and friends,” she quipped. If there’s one major advice they could give to a couple who want to enter into a business partnership of any kind, what could it be? “Put your trust in each other’s capability … listen and respect each other’s opinion, and enjoy each other’s company, and while working and pitting talents and skills try to discover each other’s strength and weakness,” Mel said, giving her share
That perfect smile From Page 4
If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.
veneer will be made to the final color of choice. Your orthodontist can help guide you in making the right choice to enhance your personality. How are they attached to the natural teeth? The permanent veneers are tried on, usually with water or glycerin on the teeth to ascertain a perfect fit and shade and color. If they feel comfortable and right, the teeth are then cleansed with chemicals to achieve a durable bond. The glue is applied and the veneers placed over, and glued to, the teeth. A light beam is used to harden the glue cement. This permanently bonds the veneers to the teeth. What are the pros and cons of
veneers? The veneers are the easiest way to a perfect smile and a friendlier appearance. They don’t stain or change color. They could be implanted within 2 to 3 office visits, usually about an hour and a half each. They durable and could last from 10-15 years. Except for the usual dental care (brushing, flossing), they do not need additional maintenance. The downside is that although veneers are impressive facsimiles of natural teeth, they are not perfect replacement for natural teeth. A portion has to be “shaved off.” The cost per tooth is not cheap, especially the porcelain veneers. It takes about two weeks or so to adjust and get used to teeth which have been changed in
based from her own experience. “We create our own spaces. Being business partners doesn’t mean we have to be together all the time. We focus on specific spot and worked on it separately. After an argument on a goal, heated or mere petty, we tried to patch it instantly and come up with a productive result that will be beneficial for us and the company. We could not allow atrocious emotions to affect us since we’ll be both retiring on the same bed,” Ogie responded. After having learned about the couple’s business acumen and skillful stratagem, knowing them up-close and personal will indubitably offer a more interesting insight of who really are they in person. Let’s get deeper into the subject. It was easy for the couple to meet since destiny had it that they both went to the same school, UST - he, in the College of Fine Arts (Commercial Fine Arts and Advertising, 1980) while she at the College of Education (BSE-HE, 1982). The inevitable introduction happened in her dorm when Ogie came along with his brass band members one evening… and that ignited the spark. The following day Ogie came back alone aptly armed with his “spotless” intention over Mel and before too long the two became an item after a six-month courtship. Ogie (the eldest son of Salvador and Mamerta Ramirez Mendoza from Lucena City) and Mel (the 4th among the 5 children of Reynerio Rosales Rubio and Monina Madrid Rubio of Pilar, Sorsogon) exchanged “I Do’s” at the Pope Pius Cathedral on July 16, 1977. In 1985 the proverbial search for “greener pasture” enthusiastically induced Ogie to try his luck in NY where he was employed as Logistic Supervisor at Yamato Transport and the following year, Mel followed leaving behind their two kids and her teaching job at the Avanceña High School. Their youngest child saw the first ray of light in 1990 after which their two children came and completed the family picture. Currently, while Ogie and Mel are both with steady jobs, their children are all grown up coping with a lifestyle close to their parents’ and treading the right track Ogie and Mel had traveled…after all, it was them who coined the family’s business entity, Mountaintop Entertainment Productions, LLC. For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com size, shape, spacing and color. The porcelain veneers can break when subjected to excessive force or impact. The advantages and disadvantages of dental veneer, and whether one is a good candidate for it, are important matters that the person should discuss in detail with his/her orthodontist. *** 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)
An Asian Journal Magazine
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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY mAY 18, 2018
An Asian Journal Magazine
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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY mAY 18, 2018