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JUNE 6-12, 2019

T H E F I L I P I N O –A M E R I C A N C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R

Volume 30 - No. 23 • 16 Pages

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USA

DATELINE US will require social media info from visa applicants FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Palace OK with US presence

by CATHERINE

VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

THE United States’ presence in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) will be helpful, but China’s involvement is still necessary to ensure longterm stability, government officials said.

“The Philippines would want stability in this part of the world, in that part of the world,” Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said on Tuesday, June 4, following renewed rhetoric from both Washington and Beijing at a just-concluded regional security forum in Singapore.

“[The] Philippines’ position is that every country has the right to use the waters in the South China Sea, as well as the air space and we want peace and quiet in that area. So, anything that will provide such kind of atmosphere, we are for it,” he told reporters in a briefing in Malacañang.

“If the presence of the U.S. will make it so, then that’s good for all of us, all of the claimants.”

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who attended the Shangri-la Dialogue held in Singapore from May 31 to June 2, said he supported the US’ freedom of navigation operations, but added this would not be enough to keep disputed waters free

THE United States State Department on Friday, May 31, issued a policy that requires visa applicants to provide the details of their social media accounts including their usernames, previous email addresses and phone numbers.

In an article from Rappler, the U.S. embassy’s visa application portal was revised to cover the “social media identifiers” that would aid the administration to enhance the screening process of potential visitors and immigrants.

“Do you have a social media presence?

Select from the list below each social media platform you have used within the last 5 years. In the space next to the platform’s name, enter the username or handle you have used on that platform. Please do not

by CATHRINE GONZALES provide your passwords,” it stated.

Inquirer.net The social media platforms listed were Ask.fm, Douban, Facebook, Flickr, Google+, MANILA — As the Muslim community celebrates Instagram, LinkedIn, MySpace, Pinterest, the Eid al-Fitr on Wednesday, June 5, to mark the end u PAGE 5 of Ramadan, a Muslim leader urged President Rodrigo Duterte to fast-track the rehabilitation of war-torn Marawi City.

Datu Bashir Alonto, chairman of the Metro Manila Muslim Community for Justice and Peace, said Muslim brothers continue to pray for the restoration of Marawi, which was heavily damaged by the five-month-long battle between the ISIS-inspired Maute Group and state forces in 2017.

“Ako mismo ay umaapela sa ating Pangulong Duterte na sana agaran [‘yung rehabilitation] kasi kung isipin mo gaano [na] katagal naghihintay ‘yung mga mahihirap na tao. Ang tanong dito [ay] ‘yung sino ‘yung nagH.R. 6 would give millions of sasacrifice? Sila pa rin, ‘yung mga mahihirap na tao undocumented youth and other eligible (I am appealing to President Duterte to fast-track the immigrants under TPS and DED a rehabilitation. Come to think of it, how long should the

and open.

“It’s not sufficient because we have to get the cooperation of China to keep the South China Sea free and open in the long run,” Lorenzana said during a question and answer session at the security forum. “[Y]es, China’s role in the South China Sea is very much welcome, but it should display a lot of… [being a] responsible major power and not using might to force its way in the South China Sea,” he added.

The Defense chief said a code of conduct — still to be agreed on by all claimants — was also criti-

u PAGE 2

On Eid al-Fitr, Muslim leader appeals to fasttrack Marawi rehab

Bill to protect undocumented immigrants passes in the House

path toward permanent resident status

ON Tuesday, June 4 Democratic-led House of Representatives passed legislation that would eliminate deportation proceedings against certain undocumented immigrants — including youth identified as DREAMers — and grant them permanent residence status.

The permanent residence status would apply to eligible individuals who illegally came to the United States as minors — some of whom identify as DREAMers — as well as immigrants under the Temporary Protected Status) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) programs.

The bill would grant eligible immigrants 10 years of legal residence status, and after that period they would receive permanent green cards after working for three years or finishing at least two years of higher education or military service.

The vote was 237 to 187, with seven Repub-

u PAGE 2

u PAGE 5

IN PRAYER. Filipino Muslims kneel in prayer in celebration of Eid al-Fitr at the Rizal Park in Manila on Wednesday, June 5. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Duterte tells military: I’m ready to die with you

by NESTOR

CORRALES Inquirer.net

President Rodrigo Duterte leads the distribution of goods to the enlisted personnel of Joint Task Force-Sulu (JTF-Sulu) during his visit to Camp Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo on Tuesday, June 4. Accompanying the President is Senator-elect Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go. Malacañang photo by Albert Alcain

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte has assured soldiers he is ready “to die with you” as he gave recognition to 11 wounded soldiers in a ceremony held at Camp General Teodulfo Bautista in Jolo, Sulu.

Duterte visited the military camp on Monday, June 3, and conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu with rank of Kampilan to 11 soldiers wounded during the May 31 encounter with the Abu Sayyaf Group at Barangay Pansul, Pati-

kul, Sulu.

The recipients of the award were Cpl. Arsenio Opaco Jr., Cpl. Sonny Jumoc, Pfc. Edwin Yurong, Pfc. Edeson Alom, Pfc. Abduhasad Baladji, Pcf. Joevertt Ramirez, Pvt. Dominic Osorio, Pvt. Jeric Peñaredondo, Pvt. Raymund Balambao, Pvt. Ramil Diaz Jr., and Pvt. Albert Daligdig.

Duterte also awarded the Gold Cross Medal to Lt. Col. Abdulmoel Alamaia, Lt. Col. Ronaldo Amteo, 1st Lt. Romel Pacer, 1st Lt. Geronimo Vergara, Cpl. Ariel Sanchez, Cpl. Engelbert Tañan, and Cpl. Reylan Busmeon.

The president also led the donning of ranks to Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo and Brig. Gen. Andres Centino.

“Sa panahon na kailangan ninyo ang inyong (during the times you need your) commanderin-chief to be with you, beside you, and to die with you, nandito ako sa mga panahon na ‘yan (I am here during those times),” Duterte said in his speech before the troops.

The president, who has doubled the salary of the military, vowed the payment of soldiers’ hazard

u PAGE 2

Palace to reject moves to AAPI communities urged to participate in 2020 Census block Marcos jewelry sale

by CHRISTINA

M. ORIEL

AJPress

by NATHALIE

ROBLES

would still push through with the auction even if the Marcos family attempts to block the said MALACAÑANG assured the sale. When asked if the spokespublic on Monday, June 3, that man believed that the Marcoses it would oppose any move by would oppose, he said “that’s for the kin of late dictator Ferdinand them to respond.” He noted: “If Marcos to block the sale of the they do, then we will oppose it.”

“Well, as far as we are conjewelry trove labeled as the “Hacerned, these properties have waiian Collection.”

Presidential spokesperson Sal- been declared to be ill-gotten, vador Panelo earlier announced that’s why precisely it is to be that Philippine President Ro- sold. If that was the court decidrigo Duterte gave his go-signal sion then we have to abide by it. to sell the Marcos jewelry and That’s the right thing to do. We has ordered officials to ensure feel that, as the president says, that the proceeds of the auction the proceeds have to go to the Filipino people who are in urwould benefit Filipinos.

Panelo then clarified that they u PAGE 5 AJPress

ASIAN American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), which are considered the fastest-growing minority group, are encouraged to participate in the upcoming 2020 Census despite concerns about privacy and language barriers.

During a panel at the Asian American Advertising Federation’s (3AF) annual summit, stakeholders discussed the importance of AAPI communities filling out the questionnaire — such as the data used to determine congressional districts and to allocate federal funding.

“The census isn’t just about how many people live in the

United States. It’s about where they live too and that’s what gets used to draw the lines for things like congressional districts, voting precincts, school districts and zone for public safety,” Julie Lam, Los Angeles regional director for the U.S. Census Bureau, said. “Census data determines how many percentages each state will get in Congress…[and] provides vital information for you and your community.”

The 2020 Census will mark the first time U.S. residents can respond online in addition to the traditional phone or mail options.

Lam emphasized that the process is “easy, safe and important.” Every household will re-

u PAGE 3

Julie Lam, director of the Census Bureau’s LA Regional office; Neil Ruiz, associate director of global migration and demography at Pew Research Center; and Daphne Kwok, vice president of AARP’s Multicultural Markets and Engagement speak about the 2020 Census at the Asian American Advertising Federation (3AF)’s annual marketing summit.

AJPress photo by Noel Ty

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

JUNE 6-12, 2019 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

Bill to protect undocumented...

From The FronT Page

would direct the departments of Homeland Security and Justice to Introduced by Rep. Lucille Roy- cancel removal, or deportation, PAGE 1 licans joining all 230 Democrats in bal-Allard (D-Calif.) — who repre- proceedings. sents the East Los Angeles area Those qualified for these protecvoting in favor of the bill.

“Today’s historic passage of the — the bill could provide protec- tions must have continuously been Dream and Promise Act is a land- tions to the 628,700 immigrants present in the U.S. and have enmark victory for our DREAMers in California who would be eligible rolled or completed certain educaand TPS Holders,” U.S. Rep Gil for the bill’s benefits, according to tional programs. Undocumented Cisneros (D-Calif.) of Fullerton, the left-leaning Center for Ameri- immigrants who were eligible for the Deferred Action for Childhood California said in a statement fol- can Progress (CAP).

In a press release, CAP said that Arrivals (DACA) program and are lowing the vote. “They deserve the opportunity to live in the country 2.1 million immigrants in the Unit- still qualified for renewal would they love and call home without ed States would be eligible for pro- also qualify. tections laid out in the bill, which “Dreamers and TPS or DED fear of deportation.” holders are immigrants who have lived much of their lives in the United States,” the organization noted. “The average TPS recipient has lived here for 22 years, the vast majority of that time in lawful status, while the average Dreamer potentially eligible for protection under the bill came to the United States at age 8,” CAP said, noting that “given their long-term resident in the United States, many of these immigrants have families here.”

The move to maintain protections and benefits for undocumented youth and TPS beneficiaries is a bipartisan effort. The bipartisan research and advocacy firm New American Economy broke down the economic impact of DACA recipients and TPS holders to the U.S. Among the findings in a recent report include that in 2017, 93% of “DACA-eligible immigrants and 94% of TPS beneficiaries” were employed and pay more than $5 billion in federal income, state and local taxes.

“For years now, DREAMers and the communities that depend on them have been trapped in a terrible limbo, wondering if they’ll be allowed to stay in their homes,” John Feinblatt, president of New American Economy, said in a statement. “It’s long past time for Congress to end this destructive uncertainty and pass the American Dream and Promise Act.” The bill was passed in the House weeks after President Donald Trump announced plans to gut protections for hundreds of thousands of TPS and DED beneficiaries and put in place a more restrictive, merit-based immigration system, as previously reported in the Asian Journal.

Following the bill’s passage in the House, it will now be referred to the Republican-led Senate. According to the New York-based political research firm Skopos Labs, HR 6 has a 38% chance of being enacted into law. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

EASY CATCH. A fisher gathers dead fish in the Taal Lake in Laurel, Batangas. Fishers in the province were hit by a massive fish kill attributed to low oxygen levels in the lake.

ManilaTimes.net photo by DJ Diosina

Palace OK with US...

PAGE 1 cal as he added that the Philippines’ claims were far superior to China’s.

Pointing to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and a 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling that upheld a Philippine complaint, he said China’s so-called “historical records” do “not exist.”

He also expressed concern that a “face-off” between the U.S. and China could find the Philippines caught in the middle.

“Anything that they do, if there is a conflict, there is a shooting… if the trade war continues then we are affected, so it impacts us,” Lorenzana said.

Panelo, meanwhile, said the Philippines would only object to a U.S. presence if this was conducted “without our consent.”

“We will object if they will come to our area because we are supposed to be a sovereign country. No country should come to

our country without our consent and knowledge,” he said.

At the Shangri-la Dialogue, Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said Washington would not ignore China’s aggression in the South China Sea. Gen. Wei Fenghe, China’s minister of national defense, countered that his country was well within its rights to deploy troops and weapons in the disputed area.

“Where there are threats, there is defense. In the face of heavily armed warships and military aircraft, how can we stay impervious and not build some defense facilities?” he declared.

Panelo said both Washington and Beijing appeared to be “just posturing,” adding, “We will let the giants do their thing.”

President Rodrigo Duterte, the Palace spokesman declared, had not changed his position that the West Philippine Sea — Manila’s preferred name for the South China Sea — “is ours.”

“As far as he is concerned, parts of the South China Sea are ours per the arbitral ruling,” Panelo said.

Duterte sought to downplay Manila’s maritime dispute with Beijing in exchange for improved ties with the world’s second-largest economy. He also set aside the 2016 PCA decision at the start of his presidency, claiming that Manila could not stand up to Beijing.

He adopted a more aggressive tone this year, however, warning of “suicide attacks” following reports that China vessels had surrounded Philippine-held Pag-asa (Thitu) Island.

Speaking in Tokyo last week, Duterte again criticized Beijing by saying, “I love China, it has helped us a bit. But it behooves upon us to ask: Is it right for a country to claim the whole ocean?” (With reports from Dempsey Reyes/ManilaTimes. net)

Duterte tells military: I’m ready to die...

PAGE 1 pays for the recent months.

He then reiterated his call for the Moro people to make peace with the government, saying his administration is ready to extend

assistance to them.

He said Malacañang would ask the National Housing Authority to build shelters for the Moros, especially the Tausugs.

Despite his offer of assistance,

the chief executive assured the public he would not tolerate brutality as he said that Islam is a great religion but has been corrupted by the Islamist extremists. n

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Dateline USa

AAPI communities urged to participate...

PAGE 1

ceive one census form but must include everyone living in that household in their response.

In past rounds, language barriers have hindered various groups from participating, however, the 2020 form will be available in five Asian languages, including Tagalog, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese. Language guides are also accessible in a total of 59 non-English languages.

The census, which is done every 10 years, will become available in March 2020. Field takers will start visiting residents from mid-May to August if they haven’t responded through any of the three options. The official counts are scheduled to be delivered to the president by December.

Over 4 million people could be missed in the next census round, according to a study released by the Urban Institute on Tuesday, June 4. It also found that AAPIs, in addition to other groups like Black and Latino, are at risk of being undercounted in populous states such as California, Florida, New York and Texas.

Asian Americans are the least familiar with the census and the least likely to report their intention to fill it out, according to a Census Bureau study released in January.

The analysis also found that there are five main barriers that might prevent people from participating: concerns about data privacy and confidentiality; fear of repercussions; distrust in government; lack of efficacy; and belief that there is no personal benefit.

With the ongoing debate about whether the “citizenship” question will be included, ethnic groups across the country are already skeptical about what the data will be used for.

Asian Americans (42%) are the most concerned that the Census Bureau would not keep answers confidential.

However, Lam said that under Title 13, Census Bureau employees take an oath to protect the information. She also assured that information will not be shared with immigration enforcement agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), law enforcement agencies such as the FBI or police, or be used to determine eligibility for government benefits.

For non-partisan fact tank Pew Research Center, the Cen-

Julie Lam, director of the Census Bureau’s LA Regional office, speaks about the importance for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities to take part in the upcoming Census during a panel at the Asian American Advertising Federation (3AF)’s annual marketing summit.

The panel was moderated by Tim Wang, founder and principal of TDW+Co, while other panelists were Neil Ruiz, associate director of global migration and demography at Pew Research Center and Daphne Kwok, vice president of AARP’s Multicultural Markets and Engagement.

AJPress photo by Noel Ty

sus data would allow it to do a deeper analysis on AAPIs, such as their income and education levels.

“The Census allows us to understand the diversity within Asian American groups,” said Neil Ruiz, associate director of global migration and demography at Pew Research Center.

“A lot of people usually lump all Asian Americans as one category but there’s also so much diversity... Not everyone has high income or is highly educated.”

Data from the last census allowed the fact tank to do more research, finding that the U.S. Asian population grew 72 percent from 11.9 million to 20.4 million, making it the fastest growth rate of any major racial or ethnic group. Chinese, Indians and Filipinos are the top three largest Asian groups in the country.

While Asian American data tends to get aggregated together, Pew has found a “huge income inequality that is growing among Asian Americans, Ruiz said. The Asian population does well on economic well-being compared to the entire U.S. population, but there are disparities among the Asian subgroups — the median annual household income of households headed

by Asian Americans is $73,060, compared with $53,600 among all U.S. households.

For example, Indian households have the highest median income ($100,000), followed by Filipinos ($80,000), while groups like Bangladeshi ($49,800) and

Hmong ($48,000) are below the median household income for the general American population.

“We hope the Census will give an accurate count. That way we can use the demographic and do more analysis in terms of tracking how AAPIs are doing in the United States,” Ruiz added.

In addition to data being used to allocate government funds, corporations like AARP, which serves Americans 50 and above, use the information to identify target audiences and to supplement in-house research.

Daphne Kwok, vice president for AARP’s multicultural markets and engagement, said that based on 2010 numbers, AARP developed Chinese and Filipino outreach, given that they were among the largest Asian subgroups.

Kwok added that AARP will be educating older respondents with filling out the form, especially those having difficulty with technology, as well as awareness campaigns around fraud related to the census.

As 2020 approaches, the Census Bureau is working with community organizations, like those in AAPI communities, to debunk myths about the process and to help recruit employees to be field representatives.

“It only comes once every 10 years. If we don’t get it right this time, we have to wait 10 more years in order to get it right…,” Lam said. “The Census is too important for us to not be part of it.” n

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 6-12, 2019

JUNE 6-12, 2019 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

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Dateline USa

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 6-12, 2019

UN fetes PH on 30th anniversary of UN child rights convention

IN 1989, world leaders made to protect children against all commended countries, including a historic commitment to the forms of violence and harm, and the Philippines, for having a high world’s children by adopting the to nurture them in every stage of minimum age of criminal responsibility.

United Nations Convention on the their life.

The Committee has pointed out In particular, the United NaRights of the Child.

Thirty years later, 196 countries tions commends the Philippines in its authoritative interpretations have become signatories to the for having set the minimum age of that State Parties should not reconvention. It’s the most widely criminal responsibility (MACR) at duce the minimum age of crimiratified human rights treaty which 15 in the JJWA, which aims to ad- nal responsibility, if its current illustrates clearly the universal dress erring children through re- penal law sets the minimum age character of the norms, values habilitation and restoration rather higher than 14 years.

Retaining the MACR would and principles of the rights of the than imprisonment.

San Diego Honorary Consul Audie De Castro, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator child.

However, recent suggestions to also appear to stand in unity with Hans Leo Cacdac, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Administrator Bernard Olalia, Labor Attaché Angela Librado-Trinidad, The Philippines, as a state party lower the MACR to 12 would un- a majority of Filipinos who are in and Consul General Adelio Cruz hold a meet and greet with the Los Angeles Fil-Am community.

AJPress photos by Ding Carreon to the convention, committed to dermine the gains in setting up a favor of the MACR remaining at develop and implement a com- restorative, child-sensitive system 15 according to the latest Social prehensive juvenile justice policy, that seeks not to detain children Weather Stations national survey which came in the form of the but to reintegrate them back to and many other stakeholders en2006 Juvenile Justice and Welfare the society without criminalizing gaged in the current debates.

On the occasion of the 30th anAct (JJWA), seen as an example them.

Retaining the MACR at 15 years niversary of the Convention on the of good legislation by the internaStates aside from an engagement would show leadership and com- Rights of the Child, the United National community.

by AJPress at the Philippine embassy in As the world celebrates the 30th mitment to children and put the tions joins the Philippines in celWashington. anniversary of the convention, the Philippines at par with countries ebrating the successes and gains PHIlIPPINe labor Secretary Also joining the labor secrePhilippines has reasons to cel- leading on this issue around the in fulfilling children’s rights, in the Silvestre Bello III announced that tary on his trip were Overseas implementation of the JJWA, and ebrate with pride. Child-friendly world. the Consulate in los Angeles will Workers Welfare Administration The United Nations Commit- we hope in refraining from lowerlaws and policies introduced over soon get its own overseas labor (OWWA) Administrator Hans leo the years reflect the commitment tee on the Rights of the Child has ing the MACR. (Inquirer.net) office during a recent town hall Cacdac, Philippine Overseas emmeeting with the local Filipino ployment Administration (POeA) American community.

Administrator Bernard Olalia, “Pretty soon, upon the instruc- and labor Attaché Angela libPAGE 1 tion of your consul general, we rado-Trinidad.

Qzone (QQ), Reddit, Sina Weare going to put a Philippine With the recent midterm elecibo, Tencent Weibo, Tumblr, Overseas labor Office (POlO) tions in the Philippines, Bello told Twitter, Twoo, Vine, Vkontakte here. You will have your own la- the Asian Journal that his depart(VK), Youku, and Youtube. bor attaché,” Bello told the audi- ment “can say with confidence “If you have used more than ence. He added that Philippine that most of those elected are one platform or more than one Ambassador to the United States very, very qualified.”

Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez “We are looking forward to a Consul General Adelio Cruz welcomed username or handle on a single ordered that there should be la- good working relationship be- Philippine Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III platform, click the ‘Add Another’ button to list each one sepabor representatives for both the tween the president and the leg- at the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles. rately. If you have not used any east and West Coasts. islative body,” he said. of the listed social media platWhile Bello did not specify Among the major announce- another country. when the POlO would be estab- ments Bello shared was the cre“Considering that this will be forms in the last 5 years, select lished, he hinted that it will take ation of a P550-million hospital, servicing our OFWs for free, it ‘None’,” it added.

The account information reabout a month, which includes under the supervision of the De- will not only be a preventive, but quirements were added to both the training of an attaché. partment of Health, for overseas curative remedy for our overseas The office would work under Filipino workers (OFWs) in San workers who can now afford to immigrant and non-immigrant the office of the labor secretary Fernando, Pampanga. The hospi- have their examination for free forms. Such account informaand monitor and assist Filipinos tal will offer medical services for courtesy of the OFW hospital,” tion would give the government access to photos, locations, working in the West Coast. Cur- OFWs and their families, whom Bello told the Asian Journal. rently, there are 34 POlOs glob- President Rodrigo Duterte wantThe bill, authored by House dates of birth, dates of mileally, according to the Department ed to honor for their contribu- Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Ar- stones and other personal data The U.S. Embassy in Manila Inquirer.net photo of Foreign Affairs. tions to the country’s economy, royo establishing the hospital commonly shared on social memechanisms to improve our additional information from This visit on Friday, May 24 Bello said. Another service would was approved by the Philippine dia.

“National security is our top screening processes to protect more applicants “will strengthmarked Bello’s only official en- be medical examinations for Fili- House of Representatives on priority when adjudicating visa U.S. citizens, while supporting en our process for vetting these counter with Filipinos in United pinos before they leave to work in Monday, June 3. n applications, and every pro- legitimate travel to the United applicants and confirming their identity.” A total of 710,000 imspective traveler and immigrant States,” it added.

In the past, social media, migrant visa applicants and 14 to the United States undergoes extensive security screening,” email and phone number histo- million nonimmigrant visa apthe State Department said as re- ries had only been sought from plicants will be affected by the

by Ritchel Mendiola AJPress ported by the Associated Press. applicants who previously trav- revision, including those who “We already request certain elled to areas or countries un- want to come to the U.S. for TWO months after being grantcontact information, travel his- der the control of terrorist orga- business or education. Only aped asylum in Canada, Filipina tory, family member informa- nizations. More or less 65,000 plicants for diplomatic and offiVanessa Rodel and her 7-yeartion, and previous addresses applicants annually would be cial visas can be exempted from old daughter Keana, who helped the rule, the AP said. (Nathalie from all visa applicants. We recorded in that category. shelter whistleblower edward The department said that the Robles/AJPress) are constantly working to find Snowden in Hong Kong, are settling into life in Montreal.

May 28 Tues. Minker Sports 275 N. Mojave Rd. / Stew9am-5pm Karagdagang kaalaman sa Filipino (Tagalog) Complex art, LV “For the first time I got a credit ay makikita rin sa website ng Lalawigan ng May 28 Tues. Sahara West 9600 W. Sahara Ave. / Grand 10am-6pm card and permanent residence, so Clark Kagawaran ng Halalan sa: Library Canyon, LV I’m so happy,” 42-year-old Rodel www.clarkcountynv.gov/votetag.

May 28 Tues. SkyView YMCA 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy., NLV 9am-4pm said Wednesday, May 29, at a May 29 Wed. Lieburn Senior 6230 Garwood Ave., LV 9am-5pm NOTICE OF EARLY VOTING FOR news conference in Montreal.

Ctr. THE ENTIRE CITY OF BOULDER CITY; LAS VEGAS’ “Now I’m going to French class, 9am-5pm May 29 Wed. Minker Sports 275 N. Mojave Rd. / StewWARDS 1, 2 AND 3; AND it’s amazing, because I already got art, LV Complex NORTH LAS VEGAS’ WARD 4 May 29 Wed. Sahara West 9600 W. Sahara Ave. / Grand 10am-6pm my student ID,” she added.

2019 MUNICIPAL GENERAL ELECTIONS AND Library Canyon, LV Despite her gratitude, how- Canada granted Filipina national Vanessa Rodel and her seven-year-old daughter, Keana, asylum CITY OF LAS VEGAS’ WARD 2 SPECIAL ELECTION May 29 Wed. SkyView YMCA 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy., NLV 9am-6pm ever, Rodel expressed her worry after her unexpected role in providing refuge to American whistleblower Edward Snowden.

May 30 Thu. East Las Vegas 2851 E. Bonanza Rd., East of 10am-6pm Inquirer.net photo over the five other members of NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that early voting for the June 11, Library Eastern, LV the group dubbed Snowden’s The group hid Snowden, a 2019 Municipal General Elections and the City of Las Vegas’ May 30 Thu. Lieburn Senior 6230 Garwood Ave., LV The remaining “Angels” have 9am-5pm “Guardian Angels” who remain in been identified as a couple origi- former CIA employee and U.S. Ward 2 Special Election will take place in the cities of Boulder Ctr. City, Las Vegas and North Las Vegas.

Hong Kong. nally from Sri lanka named Su- National Security Agency (NSA) May 30 Thu. Sahara West 9600 W. Sahara Ave. / Grand 10am-6pm Together with her lawyer who pun Kellapatha and Nadeeka contractor, after he stole a trove of Library Canyon, LV RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT May 30 Thu. SkyView YMCA 3050 E. Centennial Pkwy., NLV 9am-6pm sponsored their asylum claims Dilrukshi, and their two young highly classified NSA documents May 31 Fri. Albertsons Village Ctr. Cir. / Trails Ctr., LV 9am-5pm in March — Guillaume Cliche- children. The last one is a Sri revealing the existence of global Voters who are registered to vote in any area of the City of May 31 Fri. East Las Vegas 2851 E. Bonanza Rd., East of 10am-5pm Rivard of the nongovernmental lankan soldier who deserted the surveillance programs run by the Boulder City, in the City of Las Vegas’ Wards 1, 2, or 3, or Library Eastern, LV group For the Refugees — Rodel military.

NSA in cooperation with partners in the City of North Las Vegas’ Ward 4 are eligible to vote in May 31 Fri. North Mesa Plaza 1601 W. Craig Rd. / Martin L. 9am-6pm made a new plea to the Canadian Supun Kellapatha is Keana’s Australia, Britain and Canada. this election. You cannot vote in these municipal and special (trailer) King Blvd., NLV government to take the remain- father, according to Rodel.

Snowden, who was charged in elections if you are registered to vote in unincorporated ar- May 31 Fri. Rainbow Library 3150 N. Buffalo Dr. / Chey10am-6pm ing “Angels” in as refugees, say“My daughter should not be June 2013 in the United States eas of Clark County or any other area that is not specifically enne, LV ing they were being persecuted in growing up in Canada without with espionage and stealing state indicated.

June 1 Sat. Albertsons Charleston / Rainbow, LV 9am-5pm Hong Kong for their role in help- her father, and her half-sister and secrets, is currently living in MosJune 1 Sat. Albertsons Village Ctr. Cir. / Trails Ctr., LV 9am-5pm VOTING BY MAIL ing Snowden.

June 1 Sat. East Las Vegas 2851 E. Bonanza Rd., East of 10am-5pm cow. n her half-brother,” she said.

Philippine Labor Secretary Bello announces overseas labor office in LA during town hall with Fil-Am community

US will require social media info from...

Filipina seeks asylum for sheltering Snowden

On Eid al-Fitr, Muslim leader appeals to...

PAGE 1 poor people wait? The question here is, who was sacrificing? It’s still them, the poor residents),” he said in an interview with the Inquirer.

Alonto said some locals in Marawi have been questioning why the government is taking too long to restore the Islamic city since it is not too large anyway and funds are available.

“May mga iba dito ang hina-

hanakit nila, ang sinasabi nila, kung hindi man mangyayari na maibalik agad ang Marawi, sabihin lang para hindi na umasa, para hindi ‘yung pag-asa palagi na lang nasa isip nila (Some people here are saying that the authorities should tell them if Marawi City will not be restored soon so that they will stop hoping and so that they won’t think about it),” he said.

If Marawi is not restored any-

time soon, the locals may then consider migrating to other areas and start a new life, he added.

Alonto said that two years after the Marawi siege, some residents still suffer from its aftermath, as in the case of evacuees still waiting to return to their homes.

Alonto said he fears the rehabilitation is not forthcoming and if the government is not pushing for it, Marawi may be forgotten. n

Palace to reject moves to block...

PAGE 1

gent need of government aid,” Panelo added.

The presidential spokesperson said that the Marcos family could freely submit their offer to the auction once the public bidding commences. However, he maintained that they must pass the qualifications should there be any.

“I do not know of any law prohibiting any person from bidding, if you are qualified. Unless there are requirements for a qualification specified by the auctioneer, then you will have to pass through the qualification,” the spokesman said.

The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG), the body mandated to recover the ill-gotten wealth of the Marcos family and their cronies, asked Duterte in a letter dated Sept. 7, 2018 to approve the sale of the P704.8-million Hawaii jewelry collection.

The rights group Samahan ng mga ex-Detainees laban sa Detensyon at Aresto (SelDA) expressed their doubts that the proceeds of the auction will truly benefit the public. SelDA vice chairman Danilo dela Fuente said that the beneficiaries must include victims of Martial law.

“While the Marcos family and the Duterte government cannot deny anymore that there are billions of pesos worth of ill-gotten wealth by the Marcos dictatorship, the question now is how do we make sure that this benefits the Filipino people,” dela Fuente said.

“They come from the poor and underprivileged, from faraway provinces who do not have access to the reparation process for rights victims. They deserve to benefit from these funds. Not doing so defeats the purpose of recovering all ill-gotten wealth from the Marcoses,” he added as reported by The Philippine

Star.

The group voiced out the concerns of the victims of human rights violations during the Marcos regime. In return, they promised to monitor the continuous recovery of Marcos ill-gotten wealth, including where the funds will go after auction.

“At present, victims cannot fully access the non-monetary assistance provided for them because of alleged non-availability of government funds.

Proceeds from the sale can be directed to this, and agencies involved should make sure that this will be accessed and availed of by the victims,” Dela Fuente stressed.

“There will certainly be individuals or parties who will prey upon these billions of pesos.

Who knows that with Duterte’s alliance with the Marcoses, the ill-gotten wealth recovered from the thieves will just go back to their hands?” he added. n

Any registered voter who is eligible to vote in these elections may choose to vote by mail. A written request for a mail ballot must be received by 5:00 p.m. on June 4, 2019. Mail ballot requests may be obtained from the Clark County Election Department at 702-455-8683 or online at www.ClarkCountyNV. gov/vote. If you received a ballot by mail, you may surrender that ballot at any early voting site and vote in person.

EARLY VOTING VOTING IS EASY! Eligible voters may vote at any of the convenient early voting sites listed below OR on Election Day at any of the City of Boulder City, Las Vegas, or North Las Vegas Vote Centers, which replace the traditional municipal election polling places.

LONG-TERM MALL AND SHOPPING CENTER EARLY VOTING SITES MEADOWS MALL - JCPENNEY COURT, 1ST FLOOR 4300 Meadows Ln. / S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas Saturday-Friday, May 25-June 7 (every day) . . . . .10am-6pm DEER SPRINGS TOWN CENTER - TRAILER IN PARKING LOT NEAR MICHAELS N. 5th St., South of CC-215 / W. Dorrell Ln., North Las Vegas Saturday-Friday, May 25-June 7 (every day) . . . . . .9am-6pm LONG-TERM PUBLIC BUILDING EARLY VOTING SITES BOULDER CITY, CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 401 California Ave. / Arizona St., Boulder City Wednesday-Thursday, May 29-30. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 7am-6pm Friday-Saturday, May 31-June 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8am-6pm LAS VEGAS CITY HALL, 2ND FLOOR, CITY CLERK’S OFFICE 495 S. Main St. / E. Clark Ave., Las Vegas Tuesday-Thursday, May 28-30. . . . . . . . . . . 7:30am-5:30pm Monday-Thursday, June 3-6 . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30am-5:30pm SHORT-TERM NEIGHBORHOOD EARLY VOTING SITES DATE

DAY

LOCATION

ADDRESS/ CROSS STREETS

TIME

May 25 May 25 May 25 May 25

Sat Sat. Sat. Sat.

Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Cardenas Market

9am-6pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 10am-6pm

May 26 May 26 May 26 May 26

Sun. Sun. Sun. Sun.

Albertsons Albertsons Albertsons Cardenas Market

Ann / Simmons, NLV Buffalo / Vegas, LV Charleston / Town Ctr., LV 4421 E. Bonanza Rd. / Lamb, LV Ann / Simmons, NLV Buffalo / Vegas, LV Charleston / Town Ctr., LV 4421 E. Bonanza Rd. / Lamb, LV 6230 Garwood Ave., LV

May 28 Tue.

Lieburn Senior Ctr.

9am-6pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 10am-6pm 9am-5pm

June 1 Sat. June 2 Sun. June 2 Sun. June 2 Sun. June 2 Sun. June 3 Mon. June 3 Mon. June 3 Mon. June 3 Mon. June 4 Tue. June 4 Tue. June 4 Tue. June 4 Tue. June 5 Wed. June 5 Wed. June 5 Wed. June 5 Wed. June 6 Thu. June 6 Thu. June 6 Thu. June 6 Thu. June 7 Fri. June 7 Fri. June 7 Fri. June 7 Fri.

Library North Mesa Plaza (trailer) Albertsons Albertsons East Las Vegas Library North Mesa Plaza (trailer) Albertsons East Las Vegas Community Ctr. North Mesa Plaza (trailer) Veterans Memorial Leisure Ctr. Aliante Library

Eastern, LV 1601 W. Craig Rd. / Martin L. King Blvd., NLV Charleston / Rainbow, LV Village Ctr. Cir. / Trails Ctr., LV 2851 E. Bonanza Rd., East of Eastern, LV 1601 W. Craig Rd. / Martin L. King Blvd., NLV Charleston / Rainbow, LV 250 N. Eastern Ave. / Stewart Ave., LV 1601 W. Craig Rd. / Martin L. King Blvd., NLV 101 N. Pavilion Ctr. Dr., North of Alta, LV 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, East of Aliante Pkwy., NLV East Las Vegas 250 N. Eastern Ave. / Stewart Community Ctr. Ave., LV Lakes Lutheran 8200 W. Sahara Ave. / Church Cimarron, LV Veterans Memori- 101 N. Pavilion Ctr. Dr., North al Leisure Ctr. of Alta, LV Aliante Library 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, East of Aliante Pkwy., NLV East Las Vegas 250 N. Eastern Ave. / Stewart Community Ctr. Ave., LV Lakes Lutheran 8200 W. Sahara Ave. / Church Cimarron, LV Veterans Memori- 101 N. Pavilion Ctr. Dr., North al Leisure Ctr. of Alta, LV Aliante Library 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, East of Aliante Pkwy., NLV East Las Vegas 250 N. Eastern Ave. / Stewart Community Ctr. Ave., LV Veterans Memori- 101 N. Pavilion Ctr. Dr., North al Leisure Ctr. of Alta, LV West Charleston 6301 W. Charleston Blvd., East Library of Torrey Pines, LV Aliante Library 2400 W. Deer Springs Way, East of Aliante Pkwy., NLV East Las Vegas 250 N. Eastern Ave. / Stewart Community Ctr. Ave., LV Lieburn Senior 6230 Garwood Ave., LV Ctr. Veterans Memori- 101 N. Pavilion Ctr. Dr., North al Leisure Ctr. of Alta, LV

9am-6pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 10am-5pm 9am-6pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 9am-6pm 10am-6pm 11am-7pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 10am-6pm 11am-7pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 10am-6pm 11am-7pm 9am-5pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 10am-6pm

To find nearby sites during early voting, go to www.ClarkCountyNV.gov/vote for a link to an interactive, mobile device enabled early voting site map.

DATED: May 16, 2019 Joseph P. Gloria Registrar of Voters PUB: May 16, 23, 30 and June 6, 2019 Las Vegas Asian Journal

6

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

JUNE 6-12, 2019 • LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL

OPINION

Improving competitiveness

FEATURES

AFTER falling nine notches last year, the Philippines saw its global competitiveness ranking recover slightly by four steps in the 2019 World Competitiveness Report. Out of 63 economies included in the annual report prepared by the Switzerland-based International Institute for Management Development or IMD, the Philippines now ranks 46th – an improvement from its 50th spot in 2018.

The country saw its rankings improve in all four factors that are used for gauging competitiveness: economic performance, government efficiency, infrastructure and business efficiency. There are 235 indicators grouped under the four factors. The improvement for the country, according to the IMD, was driven by solid economic performance backed by sustained real GDP growth as well as increases in employment levels and the labor force.

It was mainly a partial recovery, however, and the country remains near the bottom of economies in the Asia-Pacific.

Singapore and Hong Kong placed first and second, both globally and within the region. China and Taiwan ranked third and fourth regionally. Three other founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations also ranked ahead of the Philippines in the Asia-Pacific rankings: Malaysia placed seventh,

Thailand eighth and Indonesia 11th. The Philippines placed 13th among the 14 Asia-Pacific economies included in the study. Globally, the United States, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates occupied third to fifth places.

The study details the areas where each economy needs improvement. For the Philippines, infrastructure has been a perennial weak point, with the country improving by only a notch from last year’s 60th ranking.

Also needing improvement are the subsectors of education, where the country ranked 58th, and development of human capital (60th). The country placed 44th in terms of risk of political instability.

Even slight improvements are welcome.

The challenge for the country is to sustain reforms across all the four factors, not only to catch up with its neighbors but also to excel. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Congress should grow a spine and impeach Trump after revelations in the Russia probe

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS ROBERT Mueller finally broke his silence on Wednesday, May 29 to announce that he was ending his tenure as special counsel and that he was resigning from the Department of Justice. He clarified the truth behind the investigation that probed any links or coordination between the Russian government and individuals associated with the Trump campaign.

The short surprise statement Mueller gave did not offer additional information beyond what was already stipulated in the 448-page report his office turned into the DOJ, but effectively dispelled the lies and misrepresentation made by Trump appointee

PeaceMaker FORMER SPEAKER JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR. WE congratulate Indonesian President Joko Widodo for his reelection as President of the world’s third largest democracy and hope he would reach out to his defeated rival Probowo Subianto, a retired general who has ran a second-time against him.

Observers note a record 245,000 candidates ran for public office, from the presidency and parliamentary seats to local positions, all undertaken in one day. The Indonesian polls perhaps represent the largest democratic electoral contest in Southeast Asia.

There will be accusations from the losers of largescale cheating but our friends in the diplomatic community in Jakarta indicate the polls were largely clean.

The modest soft-spoken Widodo, who has launched a largescale infrastructure program, visited Manila in April 2017, ahead of the ASEAN Summit then, on invitation of President Rodrigo Duterte and they discussed security of sea lanes, cross-border traffic and patrol, and economic cooperation.

We hope in President Widodo’s second term there would be more meaningful and concrete

Philstar.com photo

Attorney General William Barr, and by President Trump himself and his administration, in connivance with their Republican cohorts in Congress.

Let the facts speak for themselves: The Mueller investigation debunks Trump’s characterization of the probe as a “hoax,” concluding based on hard evidence that Russia made “multiple, systematic efforts to interfere in our election.”

“That there were multiple, systematic efforts to interfere in our election, and that allegation deserves the attention of every American,” Mueller said at the end of his statement.

However, as it relates to the Trump campaign’s involvement in those efforts, the report said

there was “insufficient evidence to charge a broader conspiracy.”

Mueller, however, did NOT exonerate Trump on the issue of obstruction of justice. He explained that he could not bring charges against Trump because of a DOJ policy that does not allow indictment of a sitting president, and therefore it would be unfair to potentially accuse somebody of a crime when there can be no court resolution of the actual charge.

In the report, however, Mueller outlined at least 10 different cases where Trump obstructed justice. While the mandate given to him would not permit him to indict Trump, Congress has been mandated to investigate on the blatant abuse of power

with corrupt intent, and file appropriate charges to make the President accountable according to the provisions of the Constitution and the rule of law.

WHAT IS CONGRESS WAITING FOR? Why not impeach Trump when strong evidence just grow by the day?

Both Republicans and Democrats in Congress are just not doing their jobs because of their own selfish political reasons. The Constitution is very clear about consequences to assault to our democracy, our democratic institutions and processes, and yet our spineless Members of Congress are prioritizing what is political expedient looking forward to the 2020 elections.

This is why Trump has been emboldened to further stonewall all investigations against him because he knows how the Democrats are just like him and the Republicans — all want to hold on to power and win their elections.

Because of this moral corruption, we the American people lose. The Constitution and our democracy lose.

Democrats should remember that their chances of winning the votes of responsible and law-abiding Americans in 2020 actually depend on their political will and conviction to uphold and defend the Constitution, no matter what the cost.

CALL YOUR Senators and Representatives.

IMPEACH

TRUMP! Let your voices be heard.

Nobody is against the law, not even the President of the United States of America. If we give Trump a pass, we breed a dictator in him, and this sets a precedent for the future leaders of the United States.

Let us do our own role in protecting our democracy, which is, after all, the “government by the people, for the people, of the people.” *** 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

President Widodo re-elected in world’s third largest democracy; active peace organizations in Asia economic exchange between Indonesia and the Philippines and with the ASEAN partners.

It is also the hope of Indonesia’s friends in ASEAN that perhaps after a decent interval, efforts will be undertaken to reach out to the defeated rivals.

It would be an excellent idea if Subianto, who also lost a presidential battle with Widodo in 2014, would perhaps be invited to serve as Indonesian Ambassador to Washington D.C. or to the European Union, and which could eventually lead to the beginnings of a much-desired government of national unity in Indonesia.

This columnist, who serves as President of Centrist Asia Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI), and of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and other Asian senior officials of our organization had the privilege of conferring with President Widodo in Jakarta in February 2015, where we exchanged views on possible ways of cooperation in the common battles against poverty, terrorism and extremism, climate change and environmental degradation.

With us in the meeting then with President Widodo were our very own Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Chairman Emeritus of

Centrist Asia Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI); then Vice President Jusuf Kalla of Indonesia, CAPDI Chairman; Deputy Prime Minister Sok An of Cambodia, CADPI Vice Chairman,now deceased; Sen. Mushahid Hussain Sayed of Pakistan, CAPDI Secretary General, who is considered a credible aspirant for national leadership in Pakistan; and CAPDI officials and business leader Tan Sri Datuk Chen Lipkeong of Malaysia and Cambodia, Erwin Aksa of Indonesia, and Asian and Filipino business and civic leaders Alex Fu, Michael Chen, Fernando Pena, Lito Jimenez, my son Joey de Venecia III, and Francis Manglapus.

CAPDI is an organization in the Asia Pacific bringing together political parties and key institutions of civil society, think tanks, business leaders, media, women and youth groups. It has offices in Manila and Jakarta.

CAPDI works closely with other active organizations, the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) and the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP). *** We met last Thursday in Manila with Dr. Chung Sik Yong, Chairman for Asia of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF); Dr. Robert Kittel, Director for

Indonesian President Joko Widodo

Peace Education of UPF Asia; and Dr. Julius Malicdem, UPF Philippines President, to discuss a forthcoming UPF World Summit in Phnom Penh, and a larger event in Manila at the turn of the year, 2020.

The New York- and Seoulbased Universal Peace Federation (UPF), of which we are Chairman Emeritus, is a global network of individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing the cause of peace through cooperation and dialogue among countries and peoples, pioneered by its late Founder Rev. Sun Myung Moon and his

Philstar.com photo

active widow Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, and currently under the active leadership of “Mother” Moon and New Yorker Thomas Walsh, with members in 180 countries.

UPF, which has a general consultative status with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), carries out humanitarian programs, service-learning projects, character education, and sports programs.

Lately, it has launched some peacemaking initiatives.

We have alerted them to the possibility of joining a journey

to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to contribute with other Asian political leaders hopefully to peace-making efforts in the North Korean peninsula where we made an unforgettable journey to Pyongyang in April, 1990. Among those in our team were the late Congressman Miguel Romero, former Philippine Education Undersecretary Nestor Kalaw, and Japanese Journalist Kiyoshi Wakamiya.

We conferred with then North Korea Founder Kim Il Sung, which immediately led to the establishment of Philippine-North Korean diplomatic relations. ■

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

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Dateline PTo graduate hiliPPines in the Philippines, students have to plant 10 trees by ritChel

Mendiola AJPress

A BILL requiring students to plant trees as a prerequisite for graduation has been approved by the Philippine House of Representatives on its third and final reading.

“Graduation Legacy for the Environment Act” (House Bill 8728) would require all elementary, high school, and college students to plant 10 trees each before they can graduate.

“To this end, the educational system shall be a locus for propagating ethical and sustainable use of natural resources among the young to ensure the cultivation of a socially-responsible and conscious citizenry,” the House bill, which was authored

by Representative Gary Alejano, This June 2019 photo shows Senate Minority members Senators Risa Hontiveros, Franklin Drilon, Antonio Trillanes IV, Bam Aquino, and Francis stated.

Alejano estimated that the bill Pangilinan.

Photo from the Office of Sen. Francis Pangilinan will be responsible for 525 billion trees planted over the course of one generation.

The number comes from the 12 million students graduating from elementary school each year, 5 million from high school and 500,000 from college, equaling 175 million new trees planted annually.

The bill provides that trees should be planted in: forests, mangrove and protected areas, ancestral domains, civil and military reservations, urban areas under the greening plan of the local government units, inactive and abandoned mine sites, and other suitable lands.

The trees planted should also match the specific area’s climate and topography. A number of internal agencies within the Philippines government will give assistance in establishing nurseries, seedling production, site identification, monitoring and evaluating and technical help.

The Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education are mandated by the

bill to implement the Act, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Health, Department of Transportation and Communications, Department of National Defense, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Justice, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.

Aside from Alejano, the bill was authored by Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, along with Deputy Minority Leader Joseph Stephen Paduano, Reps. Strike Revilla (2nd District, Cavite), Noel Villanueva (3rd District, Tarlac), Mark Go (Lone District, Baguio City), and Pablo Ortega (1st District, La Union). n

Drilon boasts passage of landmark laws authored by minority bloc amid criticisms Duterte lifts official travel ban to Canada — Palace

MANILA — As the 17th Congress adjourned its third regular session on Tuesday, June 4, the six-member Senate minority bloc took pride in the passage of a number of landmark measures.

Senate minority leader Franklin Drilon, who leads the Senate Minority, hailed the accomplishments of the opposition bloc despite some challenges it encountered.

Drilon admitted that the 17th Congress was not an easy feat for the opposition.

“It is hard to be in the opposing side these days,” Drilon said in a release.

“We saw our colleague Sen. De Lima detained. All of us in the minority were subjected to criticisms and attacks,” he added.

De Lima, known critic of President Rodrigo Duterte and his administration, has been detained since February 2017 for allegedly protecting and coddling drug traders “Despite all these, we soldiered on and remained focused on one goal: to get things done for the people,” the minority leader furthered.

The opposition bloc is behind the following landmark laws:

• Revised Corporation Code – Drilon • Free Tuition Act – Sen. Bam Aquino • Mental Health Act – Sen. Risa Hontiveros • Sagip Saka Act – Sen. Francis Pangilinan • Magna Carta of the Poor Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV • Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Institutionalization – De Lima For his part, Drilon did not only pave way for the passage of Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines. He authored two other major laws, including Amendments to the Revised Penal Code, and the Philippine Identification System Act. Drilon also authored the New Central Bank Act. He is one of the authors of the Department of Housing law.

Aside from these measures, Drilon played a part in ensuring the Bangsamoro Basic Law would be constitutionally compliant.

Drilon also helped propose the solution to the budget deadlock, preventing a reenacted budget.

The opposition leader enumerated the measures accomplished by his allies in the Senate:

Sen. Bam Aquino Outgoing senator Aquino, who is one of the youngest senators, was the principal sponsor of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (Free College Act).

He is set to leave the Senate Committee on Education, Arts and Culture, which he chairs.

As part of his advocacy which include the youth’s welfare, Aquino was behind the laws: Masustansyang Pagkain Para sa Batang Pilipino Act and Balik Scientist Act. “On the economic front, Aquino wrote and sponsored measures such as the Personal Property Security Act that allows personal properties, and not just land titles, as collateral for bank loans,” Drilon said.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros Drilon cited that women and children’s rights advocate Hontiveros crafted and defended a number of landmark pieces of legislation like the Universal Health Care Act, 105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law and Mental Health Act. Hontiveros is the chair of the Committee on Women, Children, PAGE 8

by Catherine

S. Valente ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte lifted his order banning government officials from traveling to Canada, Malacañang said on Tuesday, June 4, after tons of trash were shipped back to its place of origin.

In a text message, Executive Secretary Salvador Media said the order was “now on the way to MRO (Malacañang Records Office).”

Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said the travel ban was imposed because of “that waste issue” and was “the very reason for the recall.”

“Since that has been resolved, it goes without saying that memo will be recalled… unless there is another serious issue. But I don’t think there is one,” he said during the Palace press briefing.

Medialdea, by authority of the president, signed on May 20 a memorandum directing “all department secretaries and heads of agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations and government financial institutions to refrain from issuing travel authorities for official trips to Canada.”

The memo also directed heads

Environmental activists from the Ecowaste Coalition, Greenpeace, Ban Toxics and Break Free from Plastics hold a rally in front of the Subic Freeport on Thursday, May 30. ManilaTimes.net photo

of government agencies to “reduce official interaction with representatives of the Canadian government.”

These directives “are consistent with our stance on the diminished diplomatic relations with Canada,” Panelo said in a previous statement.

Duterte in April said he wanted the trash shipment returned to Canada and warned that the issue may spark a war.

In 2013, the Philippines found that Chronic Incorporated, a private firm in Ontario, shipped a total of 103 container vans of garbage mislabeled as “recyclable plastic materials” to Manila. The ship-

ment was consigned to Philippine company Chronic Plastics.

The Philippine government discovered that the 18 inspected containers consisted of mixed waste such as adult papers, waste paper and other household trash that needed to be immediately disinfected.

The other 26 container vans were illegally dumped into a landfill site in Tarlac.

The shipment of Canadian waste was deemed illegal, as provided by the Basel Convention signed by the Philippines and Canada prohibiting the trade of toxic and hazardous wastes, unless a country would give its consent. n

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june 6-12, 2019 • LAS VeGAS ASIAn jOuRnAL

Dateline PhiliPPines

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

No more PH participation in climate change conferences — DFA chief ferences requiring air travel,” the foreign affairs chief said over Inquirer.net Twitter on Wednesday, June 5.

“We’ll just vote Yes to radical MANILA — Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. said proposals. No more talk,” he he would turn down all official added.

Locsin’s tweet comes after participation of the Philippines in climate change conferences that President Rodrigo Duterte’s “answer to UN’s (United Nations) would necessitate air travel.

“I am rejecting all official par- plea for yet another stronger stand ticipation in climate change con- against climate change—which he

by Christia

Marie raMos

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr.

branded as more hot air.”

During the President’s visit in Japan for the 25th Nikkei International Conference on The Future of Asia last week, he stressed that the destruction inflicted by natural disasters “is more painful for developing nations and for the poorest of the poor.”

Duterte, according to Malacañang, also “urged for greater accountability among developed countries stressing that ‘when the lives of millions hang in a balance, there has got to be a way.”

In 2017, Duterte signed the Paris Agreement on climate change despite earlier misgivings.

The pact seeks to strengthen the international response to the threat of climate change by keeping the global average temperature rise to well below two degrees celsius above preindustrial levels.

The Philippines also earlier pledged to cut 70 percent in emisnquirer.net photo sions by 2030. n

Internet use highest in Metro Manila in 1st quarter of 2019 INTERNET use is still the highest in the Natonal Capital Region (NCR) and urban areas for the first quarter of the year, according to a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.

The poll from March 28 to 31, 2019 said the number of Internet users in Metro Manila was at 64 percent, higher than the 59 percent recorded in December 2018.

It saw a spike in Mindanao at 39 percent this quarter compared to

the 32 percent last December.

The figure, however, went down in Balance Luzon, at 48 percent this quarter, from December’s 56 percent.

It dipped in the Visayas at 34 percent from December’s 35 percent.

While the number of adults using the Internet in urban locales decreased, it is still higher than those in the rural areas.

The survey said that 56 percent of adults were Internet users,

CALL FOR NEW SIN TAX. Two leading groups of medical professionals in the country have joined the call for Congress to prioritize the proposed increase in taxes on tobacco products. Representatives from the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) and the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP), were joined by hundreds of health advocates from the youth, senior citizens, urban poor communities, and other civil society groups who went to the Senate in Pasay City on Monday, June 3.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

CHR on bill protecting human-rights defenders: Wave of fresh hope

by Darryl John

esGuerra

Inquirer.net

down from the 62 percent recorded in December last year.

The survey said that internet users in rural areas registered a record-high 38 percent from the 37 percent in the previous quarter.

The survey was conducted among 1,440 Filipinos aged 18 years old and above.

It has sampling error margins of ±2.6 percent for national percentages, and ±5 percent each for the regions. (Ralph Villanueva/ManilaTimes.net)

MANILA—The passage on Congress’ third and final reading of the bill that would define and protect the rights of humanrights defenders (HRDs) provides a “wave of fresh hope” for the human rights community which has been faced with hostile sociopolitical climate.

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said this on Wednesday, June 5, after 183 House members voted to approve House Bill No. 9199 or the Human Rights Defenders (HRD) Protection Bill on Monday. No one opposed or abstained.

“This move from the lower of Filipino seafarers. house provides a wave of fresh As of 2018, he said, there are hope for the human rights commore than 400,000 Filipino seafar- munity that continue to steadfastly ers overseas, which is 30 percent pursue the human rights cause of the total global maritime labor amidst these challenging times,” force.

CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline “We can proudly recognize that these seafarers are well-educated, well-trained, and well-equipped to man internationally flagged vessels,” Vingson said.

He said the Philippines remains compliant with the SCTW convention and remains on the IMO’s

by Maila aGer whitelist.

Inquirer.net “We don’t have problems with the whitelist. We still are in the MANILA, — It might have been whitelist. We are not removed. We said in jest but Senator Nancy are compliant,” Vingson said. n Binay has offered her erstwhile foe, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a teaching job at the Makati University plus free hospitalization at the Ospital ng Makati.

Senator Panfilo Lacson shared this in a Twitter post on Wednesday, June 5.

Senate camaraderie at its best in the 17th Congress: Sen Nancy Binay offered graduating Sen Trillanes a teaching job at the University of Makati with 24-hr free parking at the Makati parking lot, plus free admission to the Ospital ng Makati and free burial in the Makati cemetery,” Lacson wrote.

In various media interviews, Trillanes mentioned about the possibility that he would join the academe to teach after his term in the Senate expires on June 30.

Lacson, in a text message, confirmed that the teaching job and free hospital offer to Trillanes was real, except the free parking and free burial, which he only added in the story.

“Totoo yun pero katuwaan lang sa (Senate) lounge,” he said. “Sen. Binay has informed us that she

PH gov’t aims to remain world’s top source of seafarers

by Daphne

Galvez Inquirer.net

MANILA — The Philippine government is aiming to retain the country’s status as the top provider of well-educated and welltrained seafarers worldwide.

“We have the facilities, we have the people, we have the process, we will remain to be the number 1 producer of mariners and seamen in this world,” Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade said in a speech during the Maritime Industry Authority’s 45th anniversary.

To achieve this, Tugade said the Philippines must remain on the “whitelist” of the International

Maritime Organization (IMO).

The “whitelist” is a list of countries that comply with the STCW Convention 1978, the international standards of training, certification, and watch-keeping for seafarers.

“Kailangan ‘wag tayo ma-blacklist. kailangan magcontinue tayo sa IMO, kailangan magcontinue tayo sa whitelist (We should not be on the blacklist. Wen need to continue being in the whitelist of the IMO),” the Transport secretary said.

Meanwhile, Marina Officer-InCharge Administrator Narciso Vingson Jr. said the agency will continue to provide “quality education and quality skill training”

Ann De Guia said in a statement, noting that the human rights community faces “demonization, stigmatization, and various threats and harassment — some even culminated to killings.”

De Guia also claimed that the measure’s approval reflects the commitment of our legislators to human rights as they accord legal protection to those championing for it.

“We look forward to the same expression of support from the Senate,” she added.

The bill, however, will not become a law anytime soon as the 17th Congress adjourned on Tuesday.

The Senate version of the bill, which was filed by Senator Leila De Lima, has been pending at the committee level since February 2018.

HB 9199 guarantees HRD rights and freedoms including rights against vilification; mandates the

State and public authorities to respect, protect, and fulfill these rights and freedoms; and imposes appropriate sanctions to counter impunity, among others.

The measure also seeks to create a Human Rights Defenders Protection Committee which will be chaired by a CHR Commissioner and six members who will be jointly nominated by concerned civil society organizations.

De Guia also underscored the importance of a measure that will provide concrete protection and ensure a system that will enable prosecution of those that will do harm or commit violations against HRDs. She then expressed hope that the bill will progress expediently, given the urgency of the matter.

“Prioritizing the welfare and rights of the human rights defenders extends to the protection of the most vulnerable sectors, which they serve,” De Guia said. n

Nancy Binay offers Trillanes teaching job, free hospitalization in Makati offered graduating Sen. Trillanes a teaching job at the Makati University and free hospitalization at the Ospital ng Makati.”

“Dagdag ko na lang yung free parking and free burial kasi si Sen Trillanes, (and Sen Cayetano) pursued to the hilt the Senate investigation on the UMak and parking lot issues, if you recall,” Lacson added.

Trillanes and former Senator Alan Peter Cayetano had initiated and pursued the Senate probe on corruption allegations against Binay’s father, former Vice President Jejomar Binay, and her brother, then Makati Mayor Junjun Binay.

Among the subjects of the probe were the alleged overpriced parking building in Makati as well as the alleged questionable deals of the Makati University with private corporations.

The probe against the Binays took place ahead of the 2016 elections where the former Vice President ran and lost to President Rodrigo Duterte.

It was only last year when Trillanes and Nancy Binay decided to put their differences aside.

Trillanes was among the six outgoing senators along with Senators Gringo Honasan, Loren

Senator Nancy Binay

Legarda, Francis “Chiz” Escudero, JV Ejercito and Bam Aquino.

“In all my 15 years in the Senate, this batch is above par in camaraderie, and that includes both the majority and minority, regardless of some tense moments on the floor,” Lacson said after the outgoing senators bid them goodbye before Congress adjourned sine die Tuesday night.

“I attribute this atmosphere mostly to the leadership style of SP Sotto, and I am not trying to be generous to him when I say this,” he added, referring to Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III. n

Drilon boasts passage of landmark laws...

PAGE 7

Family Relations and Gender Equality and the vice chair of the Committee on Health and Demography.

She recently pushed for the passage of the Safe Streets and Public Spaces Act which seeks to protect everyone, especially women and LGBT, from sexual harassment in the streets, schools and workplaces. She also led the passage of the landmark Anti-Hospital Deposit Law and the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy Act. According to Drilon, Hontiveros also participated in the enactment of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. Sen. Kiko Pangilinan Drilon cited that Pangilinan, the Liberal Party president not just principally authored and sponsored the recently enacted Sagip Saka Act or RA 11321 that aims to increase the farmers’ income. He also principally authored the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act and also filed other bills like the anti-political dynasty measure, as well as the coco levy fund measure, among others.

The veteran senator, who was formerly chair of the Senate Committee on Food and Agriculture, pushes the passage of Coco Levy Trust Fund Bill and the strengthening of the Philippine Coconut Authority bill, twin measures eyed to advance the interest of the coconut farmers. These measures were, however, vetoed by the

president.

Drilon said Pangilinan, current chair of the Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes led the hearing on the proposed Charter change.

Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV Meanwhile, Drilon also commended Trillanes who sponsored Magna Carta of the Poor on behalf of De Lima.

Drilon said if not for Trillanes, “there would be no Magna Carta of the Poor that protects and upholds the rights of the poor to adequate food, decent work, education housing and health.”

Trillanes, chair of the Committee on Civil Service, Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation, worked into law the Speech Language Pathology Act, Philippine Occupational Therapy Law of 2018, Philippine Criminology Profession Act of 2018, Philippine Food Technology Act, among others.

The outgoing senator is also co-author of the enacted Philippine Identification System Act, as well as the amendments to the Ombudsman Act and the amendments to the police recruitment and training system law.

Sen. Leila de Lima Last but not the least, Drilon touted De Lima who despite her detention managed to craft a number of proposed legislation like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Act and the Magna Carta

of the Poor.

“As former secretary of justice, De Lima has been very active in filing resolutions calling for investigations of alleged corrupt practices and irregularities, particularly in the drug war,” Drilon said.

Drilon said the Senate minority bloc is proud of what it has done.

“We can look people in the eye, critics or otherwise, because we know that we did not fail them,” Drilon said.

“It proves that the opposition has not been a hindrance in the passage of meaningful legislation and policy formulation,” he added.

The opposition bloc leader credits the “healthy working environment” at the Senate for their success.

“What the minority has accomplished is a testament to our desire to serve and prove our worth to the people. At the same time, I would like to think that it is also a manifestation of a healthy working environment in the Senate, which we hope to see in the next Congress,’” Drilon said.

Two of the Senate Minority members, Aquino and Trillanes bowed out of the 17th Congress Tuesday. They will be returning to their private lives come June 30 as the new set of senators who won the 2019 polls are set to assume their posts. (Rosette Adel/Philstar.com)

Dateline PhiliPPines

(702) 792-6678 â&#x20AC;˘ http://www.asianjournal.com

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 6-12, 2019

Legal basis needed to ditch Smartmatic Arroyo leaves â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;legacy of supportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for Duterte as House honors â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;graduatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in closing rites

by Glee Jalea ManilaTimes.net

IMPLEMENTING President Rodrigo Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s call to ditch Smartmatic as the Commission on Electionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (Comelec) technology provider should undergo the proper process, a spokesman for the poll body said on Monday, June 3. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There has to be legal basis. Smartmatic, right now, had nothing to do with the counting of votes,â&#x20AC;? Comelec spokesman James Jimenez told reporters following a House of Representatives hearing on glitches that marred the May 13 midterm elections. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The issue goes beyond just that â&#x20AC;Ś Kailangan nating sundin â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;yung proseso (We need to follow the process),â&#x20AC;? he added.

Duterte last week told Filipinos in Japan that he did not want Smartmatic, which had been in-

volved in the past four automated elections, to be around in 2022 when Filipinos choose a new president. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would like to advise Comelecâ&#x20AC;Ś dispose of that Smartmatic and look for a new one that is free of fraud,â&#x20AC;? Duterte said last Thursday, as he pointed to cheating claims by the opposition after May 13 and lost votes in the 2016 presidential polls that he won.

Jimenez said Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remarks did not mean that fraud had been committed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hindi niya tinutukoy na meron talaga, [sinasabi niya lang na] kailangan walang ganoong klaseng pagdududa (Duterte did not indicate that there was fraud; he is only saying that no one should cast doubt on the electoral process). And we agree with that,â&#x20AC;? he said.

At the House hearing, Minority Leader Danilo Suarez zeroed in

on malfunctioning vote counting machine provided by Smartmatic.

This was echoed by Senior Deputy Minority Leader Lito Atienza who claimed that Smartmaticâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s system was â&#x20AC;&#x153;old, broken and defective.â&#x20AC;?

To further ensure transparency, party-list Representatives Ariel Casilao of Anakpawis and Carlos Zarate of Bayan Muna called for a hybrid system where votes are manually counted at the precinct level and then automatically canvassed.

The Comelec, meanwhile, also said that it would review the ballot format given complaints that the placement of party-list choices at the back had led to fewer votes this year.

AKO Bicol Party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin noted that only 27 million out of 63 million registered voters cast votes for party-lists, 9 million less than the 36 million in 2016. n

Hot air balloons landing in vacant lots stun cops, villagers in Pangasinan

by Gabriel

CardinOza Inquirer.net

DAGUPAN CITY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Hot air balloons landing in vacant lots in Pangasinan have baffled local policemen and villagers.

Alcala police Chief Master Sergeant Marcos Bautista said they are always caught by surprise whenever a hot air balloon lands in their town because they were not informed about its arrival.

Bautista said a hot air balloon manned by foreigners landed in vacant land in Barangay Laoac, Alcala town at around 6:54 a.m.

Police responded to the site to check on its passengers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We just saw it descending as we manned a police checkpoint in the town,â&#x20AC;? Bautista said.

The hot air balloon carried its pilot American Jonathan Trappe, co-pilot Australian Will Smith, and trainee Janet Smith, a Filipino.

Trappe later told policemen that the hot air balloon took off from Nampicuan town in Nueva Ecija province.

Trappe said they also flew the balloon on Tuesday and ended up landing in Barangay Vacante in neighboring Bautista town.

On April 9, a hot air balloon made an unexpected landing in a cornfield in Barangay San Juan, also in Alcala town.

The pilot, who was not iden-

by Glee Jalea ManilaTimes.net

THE House of Representatives formally adjourned on Tuesday, June 4, and paid tribute to its â&#x20AC;&#x153;graduatingâ&#x20AC;? third termers and outgoing Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo whose â&#x20AC;&#x153;concernâ&#x20AC;? during her brief term was â&#x20AC;&#x153;to support President Rodrigo Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy.â&#x20AC;?

After the sine die adjournment rites, lawmakers with three terms went up the stage of the plenary hall to receive their certificates of recognition and have their photos taken.

In her farewell speech, Arroyo thanked her colleagues for helping the 17th Congress achieve â&#x20AC;&#x153;genuine milestones that will benefit both the present and next generation of Filipinos.â&#x20AC;?

Arroyo lauded the lawmakers for their â&#x20AC;&#x153;tireless work and dedication,â&#x20AC;? which paved way for the passing of 250 House bills into law since July 23, 2018.

Arroyo fulfills mission to support Duterte legacy Despite having the shortest term as the 25th speaker, Arroyo reiterated that her primary mission as head of the House was to support the legacy of President Rodrigo Duterte. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My concern has not been on my legacy as Speaker â&#x20AC;&#x201C; my con-

cern as Speaker was to support President Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy in the year that I had as the head of this House,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Through House Resolution 2600, Majority Leader Fredenil Castro and Minority Leader Danilo Suarez lauded Arroyo for passing â&#x20AC;&#x153;several vital socioeconomic measures,â&#x20AC;? including the priority measures enumerated by Duterte during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in 2018.

Among these measures were Republic Act (RA) 1105 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (House Bill 6475), RA 11203 or an Act Liberalizing the Importation, Exportation and Trading of Rice, Lifting for the Purpose the Quantitative Import Restriction on Rice (HB 7735), and RA 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act (HB 5784).

The outgoing speaker urged the House to continue helping Duterte in â&#x20AC;&#x153;harvesting the fruits of the seeds plantedâ&#x20AC;? under his term. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the first three years of President Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Administration, many good seeds were planted by way of Executive decisions, the legislative agenda, strategic foreign engagements, and bold reforms.

In the remaining years of his

term, we just all need to help in the implementation to harvest the fruits of those seeds within President Duterteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s term,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Arroyo also lauded younger lawmakers for demonstrating exemplary work attitude in Congress. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am also very gratified that as House Speaker, I was given more opportunity to work with our younger politicians. From what I have seen of them, their generation will serve our country very well indeed when their time comes. Congratulations, young ones!â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are all on a journey together. As our nation moves forward, let us all join hands in unity and walk confidently towards a better tomorrow. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for giving me the honor and privilege of serving you,â&#x20AC;? Arroyo ended.

The outgoing members of Congress include Minority Leader and Quezon governorelect Danilo Suarez; Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Rodolfo FariĂąas, and former Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. who are both set to retire from politics.

The 18th Congress will formally convene on July 22 when Duterte delivers his fourth State of the Nation Address. n

ness-as-usual.â&#x20AC;?

This despite his revelation in 2017 that Customs officials and employees collected payola, known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;taraâ&#x20AC;? of up to P71,700 for each shipment smuggled through the BOC. LapeĂąa, who served as Customs chief for more than a year said Lacsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s privilege speech also did not mention the existence of â&#x20AC;&#x153;taraâ&#x20AC;? during his watch at the BOC. According to LapeĂąa, he reformed the policies of the BOC during his term. This was the reason the BOC posted a high revenue collection in 2018, he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Noong privilege speech ni Senator Lacson, wala siyang nabanggit na nag-tara during my time. I would like to state that during my time, we have

the highest revenue collection in the history of customs,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yung ginagawa namin na pamamaraan para mareporma ay naging epekibo by the revenue collection alone. That would indicate na naging epektibo yung aming sistema by that time,â&#x20AC;? he added.

It will be recalled that the President removed LapeĂąa from the BOC in October 2018 and transferred him to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) as its Director General.

Prior to his transfer, LapeĂąa came under fire because of the P11 billion worth of shabu that was allegedly smuggled into the country and was allegedly not detected by Customs in August last year. n

LapeĂąa: Lacsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s claim on existence of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;taraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; system in BOC has basis

by Faye

Orellana Inquirer.net

MANILA â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The claim of Senator Panfilo Lacson that the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;taraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or payola system is still active at the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has basis, former BOC chief Isidro LapeĂąa said on Wednesday, June 5. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yung privilege speech ni Senator Lacson, I would say na has basis, yung sinabi niya,â&#x20AC;?

LapeĂąa when asked to comment on Lacsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revelation last week.

LapeĂąa added that the situation inside the BOC is â&#x20AC;&#x153;hardâ&#x20AC;?

This hot air balloon piloted by American Jonathan Trappe lands in a vacant lot in Barangay but it is something â&#x20AC;&#x153;that can be Vacante in Bautista town in Pangasinan.

Photo from the Facebook page of the Municipal addressed and reformed.â&#x20AC;?

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Bautista town In his privilege speech last tified, informed residents that Pampanga province, prompting May 29, Lacson said the â&#x20AC;&#x153;taraâ&#x20AC;? strong winds blew his balloon him to make an emergency land- system is still being practiced northward after he took off from ing. n by the agency like it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;busi-

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10

June 6-12, 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ LAS VeGAS ASIAn JOuRnAL

http://www.asianjournal.com â&#x20AC;˘ (702) 792-6678

VEGAS&STYLE Journal

Jo Koy inâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Cominâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;In Hotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;: When truth is funnier than fiction Fil-Am screenwriter Michael Golamco on What the hot-to-trot Fil-Am comic remembers about new Netflix film â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Always Be My Maybe,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; his six-year stay in PH as a preteen and on seeing ourselves on screen

by Rito

P. asilo Inquirer.net

JO KOYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S astute observational skills and vivid recollections of growing up Filipino in an American household in Washington and Las Vegas are the potent tools that inform the hot-to-trot stand-up comicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offbeat humor.

The son of an American father and Filipino mother gives his jokes a measure of authenticity and lived-in pertinence by drawing upon his own experiences and insights. As his laugh-out-loud gags demonstrate, truth is funnier than fiction, indeed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I speak highly of the Filipino culture because of my mom. But the awareness of doing that wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really what I [initially] planned to doâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;everything just fell into place,â&#x20AC;? Jo Koy told the Inquirer during our one-on-one phone interview with him last Friday, May 31. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get me wrong. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m honored that Filipinos identify with it and have embraced it. But what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really, really happy about is that even non-Filipinos are appreciating these stories and relating to them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What I love the most is that people are loving my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s characterâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;because sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just being a mom! More than that, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re learning about the Filipino culture. My whole life, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always encouraged people to try Filipino food, or just meet my mom. Now here I am doing that on the world stage!â&#x20AC;?

Jo Koyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s themes may be universalâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;about the joys and difficulties of raising a millennial, measuring up to an immigrant parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expectations, or our cultural idiosyncrasiesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but his shows unwittingly introduce the Filipino way of life to mainstream audiences in Hollywood and around the world.

He pokes irreverent fun and self-deprecating humor at Pinoy

by Rae

Astute observational skills and vivid recollections inform the Fil-Am comicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offbeat humor.

Photo from Instagram/@jokoy

culture and identity without denigrating the things that make them unique and endearing.

Despite the absence of a cocky attitude, the performerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feat is nothing to scoff at: The Fil-Am stand-up comic, whose real name is Joseph Glenn Herbert, is on the shortlist of comedians who had received a standing ovation on â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Tonight Show.â&#x20AC;?

Last seen on Netflix in 2017â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jo Koy: Live from Seattle,â&#x20AC;? heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s set to tickle viewersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; funny bone again beginning June 12 in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jo Koy: Cominâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; In Hot,â&#x20AC;? his second comedy special on the streaming giant.

Jo Koy, who just turned 48 on June 2, is marking a major milestone in his careerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been 30 years since he began pursuing comedy. He says that cracking jokes, as with other art forms, requires as much hard work as talent. He began honing his comedic

style in 1989. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Right out of high school, I went to an open mic at a nightclub in the corner of Pecos Road and Tropicana Avenue (in Vegas)â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and bombed!â&#x20AC;? he recalled. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where it all started.â&#x20AC;?

Yes, Jo Koy knows a thing or two about falling flat on his face and learning from itâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which he gets to apply in his line of work. Like, when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re stuck with an unresponsive audience, perhaps? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the grim reality about the state of stand-up comedy, man. The audience will let you know if they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the joke,â&#x20AC;? he said matter-of-factly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a singer, people are going to react if you sing their favorite song all day. But in comedy, viewers are not going to respond to something they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not funny, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not funny. So you have to PAGE 12

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ann VaRona AJPress

THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no denying that Asian Americans are having a moment in mainstream entertainment after years of being marginalized or stereotyped into narrow roles.

Last year, Asian Americans rejoiced at the August release of the romantic comedy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Crazy Rich Asians,â&#x20AC;? which was the first major Hollywood studio release since â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Joy Luck Clubâ&#x20AC;? in 1993. Featuring an all-Asian cast, the film proved to be a major breakthrough when it came to representation, receiving a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes soon after it hit theaters.

Also last August, Netflix released on its platform the movie adaptation of Jenny Hanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s young adult novel â&#x20AC;&#x153;To All the Boys Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Loved Before,â&#x20AC;? which featured Vietnamese-American actress Lana Condor. Coming out of Sony Pictures was the thriller â&#x20AC;&#x153;Searching,â&#x20AC;? featuring KoreanAmerican actors John Cho and Michelle La. From each film, Asian Americans found a little bit of something to relate to â&#x20AC;&#x201D; whether it was dealing with potential in-laws, nervously navigating young adult relationships, or simply dealing with cultural identity and conflict.

But in light of the burgeoning screen time both on the big screen and on television, Asian American storytellers see now as high time they make sure their presence in mainstream media goes beyond their ethnic demographic.

Netflixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new original film â&#x20AC;&#x153;Always Be My Maybeâ&#x20AC;? does well in proving that viewers can enjoy funny films featuring authentic Asian American experiences without relying on cheesy stereotypes to do so.

The film further proves that Asian Americans can simply be great romantic-comedy leads and not just great Asian American rom-com leads.

Starring the hilarious Ali Wong and Randall Park â&#x20AC;&#x201D; both writers and producers of the film â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Always Be My Maybeâ&#x20AC;? is a fun romantic comedy set in San Francisco to the throwback tunes of the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The film follows the lives of two childhood best friends Sasha (Wong) and Marcus (Park) from their years spent frolicking around the city and eating homemade comfort food, to their unexpected reunion 15 years later.

In true rom-com fashion, the two end up living out completely different lives during their time apart. Sasha becomes a successful celebrity chef walking red carpets and living her best life in Los Angeles. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engaged to a wealthy man played by Daniel Dae Kim, and is ambitious and fearless when it comes to making her mark in the world and moving to new places.

As for Marcus, not much has changed. He raps in the same band, lives with his dad, and choose to stay in the community where life has always been more comfortable and familiar. Playing his quirky girlfriend is the very funny Vivian Bang.

In further rom-com fashion, life has its way of bringing things together and it does so by placing the characters in often awk-

Fil-Am screenwriter Michael Golamco

ward but also often hysterical scenarios.

For the people behind the making of the film, making â&#x20AC;&#x153;Always Be My Maybeâ&#x20AC;? was really just about telling an authentic and familiar love story.

Making her directorial debut was Iranian-American writer and producer Nahnatchka Khan, also the producer of ABCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sitcom â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fresh Off the Boat.â&#x20AC;? Writing the story alongside Wong and Park was Filipino-Chinese writer Michael Golamco. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that a lot of us these days, as we become adults, think about that one person way back in our past and if there is a possibility there,â&#x20AC;? Golamco told the Asian Journal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think for a lot of us, you want to make sure that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve really given those things a chance and when opportunities pop up again, you have to ask yourself if maybe this was it.â&#x20AC;?

He added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like, people kind of getting over themselves and their own egos and being vulnerable â&#x20AC;&#x201D; opening themselves up and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a hard thing to do. But you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let that hold you back, because when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a chance at real happiness, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to take it.â&#x20AC;?

Golamco â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Manila-born, but moved to Canada and then to the San Francisco Bay Area at the age of 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is not new to telling Asian American stories.

A playwright, Golamco has written a number of stage plays featuring Asian leads and Asiancentric story plots. In fact, Golamco and Park met each other while studying at the University of California, Los Angeles when Park started an Asian American Theater Company and Golamco was a charter member.

Wong and Park called Golamco up when they decided to go ahead and write the film.

Golamco said that during the writing process, there really wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t any conscious intention or strategy in their minds for making sure that the film would

be perceived in any certain way in terms of property representing Asian Americans.

To them, they were just writing from what they knew from their own personal experiences. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It came about organically because these are our lives,â&#x20AC;? said Golamco.

In one scene, for example, visitors to a birthday party are seen taking off their shoes before coming into the house, carrying them through the house, then putting them back once they get to the backyard.

Golamco mirrored that with a recent visit he made to Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house when he naturally chose to wear shoes easy to take off, knowing that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be coming off once at Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural to us because thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how we live, and so when you tell a story about these people, it just comes out organically,â&#x20AC;? said Golamco.

For Golamco, the key to good storytelling â&#x20AC;&#x201D; regardless of primary intention â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is about making sure to convey an emotional journey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The audience needs to be able to access the story, and not just the plot of the story, but the actual emotion so that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there with the protagonist. You put them in the protagonistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point of view and they live that life for a bit,â&#x20AC;? said Golamco.

He said the ability to convey a protagonistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective is especially important for Asian Americans because there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough representation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These days [representation] is growing which is great, but that representation is important because it puts non-Asians into the point of view of an Asian American protagonist. It allows access to that protagonistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emotions and everything that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going through,â&#x20AC;? said Golamco, adding that he hopes that people will ultimately be able to share in each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heartaches and triumphs and grow together. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It helps non-Asians understand Asian Americans better and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to be able to understand your friends and your neighbors better because it helps you understand yourself. Like understanding Black people and Latinx people like white folks and understanding these people better helps me understand myself,â&#x20AC;? added Golamco.

Michelle Buteau, who played Sashaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friend and assistant Veronica, said that for a long time, films got away with having one ethnic person, which often resulted in stereotypical jokes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no time better than now to be like, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hey, guess what? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re people, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out here, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just having conversations and going through [things] like everybody else,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? said Buteau.

Being a child of Caribbean parents, Buteau shares in the hopes that movies will just be known as good movies and not be hyper-focused on an ethnic demographic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be so great to finally have one day where itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a Black movie, but just a movie. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not an PAGE 12

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Abigail’s story

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

Once upon a time series

MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA (Let me introduce to my readers a bit of a background on the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Series that I am launching in this edition and will be running from time to time.

Stories have a power and influence to touch the heart that a cut and dried essay or a report cannot give. Somehow the lessons and insights we learn from stories have a longer shelf life. They stick.

Along the way, I have met many whose stories seem like the stuff of fiction. A lot of what I write are stories told to me. I view them from my personal lens and filter.

I listen quietly, file them away and sort things out. I fictionalize story elements to protect their privacy and like the deft fingers of a tapestry maker, I weave the colorful threads together, conjure a composite character from different, engaging people I have met just to tell a story. Hopefully these series warm and lift the heart just a tad. For as long as we live, we all need a boost daily.

The first of these series is Abigail’s. Abigail is the name of my granddaughter. I used her name for the story of a real live person among us (who shall not be named) whose story is so much more enchanting than fiction only because it’s true. ENJOY!) ABIGAIL thought of her husband who passed away five years ago and her tears fell as though it was just yesterday. People say that time heals all wounds but hers seems to be a stubborn, festering, open wound.

She remembers the one audacious move she made in her entire life. Abigail still squirms at the thought and smiles at the unbelievable chutzpah it took her to say three words that would change her life in a mysterious wy.

Twenty years ago, she came to America as a single person on a tourist visa and overstayed. It was a tough time to be. She was alone in a strange land trying to nurse a broken heart from a guy who just walked away for no apparent reason other than love wasn’t there to hold them together. She was going to deal with the heartache and tune out matters of the heart with tons of work instead.

Although she tried as best as she could to find a company

“Will you marry me? She asked him” sponsor her and work her way to a green card, it just didn’t happen.

She heard about paying a citizen to get hitched on a fake marriage until she got her papers – a pure hushed-up business transaction.

But Abigail wouldn’t live a lie.

Staying true to herself, she would have none of it. If marriage was her route in being allowed to stay in the country, SO BE IT. But it had to be the real thing or none at all.

She would pack her suitcase and leave if it came to that.

She didn’t know how to drive a car and she believed she needed to learn this skill if she were to have a modicum of career success. She picked off numbers of driving instructors from a phone book. She called several until she spoke to one who was the owner and instructor himself. He must have given her a good vibe over the phone. The instructor picked her up from her apartment for the first lesson. The guy was easy on the eyes and her first driving lesson was pleasant and smooth.

She began looking forward to the next lessons. .Mike, her instructor, was tall and quiet. He was from a few generations of a modest, hardworking, immigrant family from Poland. He was always on time, clean-shaven and smelled fresh from the shower each time for her driving lesson. He was polite and kind and — dear heavens – a devout Catholic just like her.

Abigail learned he had long been a widower from a short-lived marriage and had no immediate plans to remarry.

Before she was to take her driving schedule for her license, Abigail prayed hard and while choking on her words in pure embarrassment, asked Mike, “Will you marry me?” He was stunned and so was she.

She didn’t know what got into her. She remembered her face felt hot and flushed and wanting to take back her bold words as soon as they were out. As tiny as she felt at the time, she felt like diving into her purse to hide. She gulped several times and told him of her predicament — the whole enchilada.

She came clean. She wasn’t going

to deceive Mike of the reason she propositioned him. All her cards were out on the table.

To both their surprise, after the shock had worn off, he accepted and they became a genuine item with the traditional rite of passage — romance, marriage and the delicious daily discovery of one another as a gift. They were childless but the gift of each other was more than enough of a heaven-sent blessing.

Abigail never expected their marriage to turn out the way it did.

It wasn’t perfect but they were both quick to overlook things — Mike more than her. That is how good he was. Mike turned out to be the gentle, kind, thoughtful person he was from day one — the type of guy countless women the world over would pray for on their knees.

For her part, she responded in kind. Abigail knew early on that she had won some kind of cosmic lottery because she dared to boldly say three little words. They had a good, wonderful run until one day, Mike didn’t feel right. He had a diagnostic procedure that revealed pancreatic cancer. He was in pain and Abigail ached with him as well through the short, grueling months until the end came.

Abigail didn’t know what hit her. She walked in a daze after the funeral going through the motions like a robot. It has been five years.

Healing would indeed come. With each memory, Abigail realized that Mike was the one marvelous gift to her from the God of love and mercy. In time, Abigail realized and became thankful at the core of her being that Mike was and will continue to be the gift that keeps her going doing good in every way she could for the rest of her mortal life.

She likes to imagine that one day in God’s perfect timing, Mike will pick her up and drive through the clouds through the pearly gates to heaven where they might be together. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Jimmy Bondoc: How not to be you

BY MONET

Calendar of Events across

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS J U N E 6 -J U N E 29

“Tagolilong: Hidden in Plain Sight” exhibit in San Pedro, CA An interactive homage to Indigenous California Habitat will be on exhibit from May 18 to June 29, 2019. Created by LA-based artists-collaborators, champoy and Sarita Doe, it will open on Saturday, May 18th, 2019 from 3:00pm-6:00pm at Pinta*Dos Philippine Art Gallery which is located at 479 W Sixth Street, Suite 108, Historic Arts District, San Pedro, CA 90731.

Tagolilong: Hidden in Plain Sight will be the sixth exhibit at Pinta*Dos Gallery since it was inaugurated in June 2017. The Gallery is open from Wednesday to Friday, 3:00pm to 6:00pm except on First Thursdays when it is open until 8pm. It is also open by appointment. For further information, email Linda Nietes-Little, Founder of the gallery at info@pintadosgallery.com Also visit their website: http://www.pintadosgallery.com , facebook and instagram pages.

JUNE 8

Philippine Independence Day Parade and Fiesta in Historic Filipinotown, LA The Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA), the first and oldest Filipino American nonprofit organization established in 1945, would like to invite the Los Angeles community to participate in the 121st Philippine Independence Day Parade and Fiesta on Saturday, June 8 at Historic Filipinotown in Los Angeles. Community members are encouraged to either walk the parade route or ride in their vehicles. The assembly time starts at 8:00 a.m. at FACLA. The parade promptly rolls out at 9:00 a.m. and will end up back at FACLA at around 11:00 a.m. The two-mile parade route starts at FACLA located at 1740 W. Temple Street, LA, CA 90026 then heads west and makes a left turn at Bonnie Brae Street. Then the Parade turns right on Beverly Blvd. and then right turn again on Temple Street to head back to FACLA. For more information or to get involved, email filamcommunity@gmail.com or please call or text FACLA Director Adrian Lecaros at (818) 634-5564.

JUNE 9

Feast of the Pentecost at St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church in Walnut, CA The St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church invites everyone to join in the celebration of the Feast of the Pentecost on Sunday, June 9. The Pentecost commemorates the event that occurred 50 days after Easter, when believers from different cultures were gathered together and were speaking in different languages but were able to hear each other in their own native tongue. There was a noise of strong wind as tongues of fire from the sky came to rest on each person, as the Holy Spirit descended upon them. Pentecost is a very important event in Christianity as it is considered the birthday of the early Church. The festivities will start with a Mass at 11 a.m. at 747 Meadowpass Road, Walnut, CA 91789.

At the Mass, churchgoers representing about 25 cultures and languages will process in their colorful native attires and will proclaim in their own languages. Led by Pastor Rev. Fr. Tony Astudillo and presided by Bishop Gerald Wilkerson, the Mass will be concelebrated by priests from various ethnicities.

After the Mass, there will be a fellowship where finger foods from different ethnicities will be served.

For Information, please contact: Bong Anonas at bonganonas@saintlorenzo.org or Cara Bermejo at carabermejo@saintlorenzo.org or call (909) 595-9545.

JUNE 15

27th annual Grand Coronation of Our Blessed Mother in Beverly Hills, CA The Heart of Mary Ministry invites everyone to take part in the 27th annual Grand Coronation of Our Blessed Mother on Saturday, June 15 at the Church of the Good Shepherd (504 N. Roxbury Dr. Beverly Hills, CA 90210). The procession will begin at 12 p.m.

JUNE 19

Digital marketing workshop in Northridge, CA iMarketing: How To Reach Your Market in the Digital World is the Business After Hours mixer hosted by the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater LA on Wednesday, June 19 at 6:30 p.m. Network and hear from guest speakers at Ninong’s Pastries and Cafe at 19524 Nordhoff st, Northridge, CA 91324. Early Bird pricing until June 14 is $25 for Members and $30 for Future Members. Regular prices starting June 15 are $30 for Members and $35 for Future Members. Food and beverages included. No payments at the door, pre-registration required at www.faccgla.org or https://bit.ly/2HNFyQ8

Fiesta ng Calamba in Carson, CA The Association of Calambeños of Southern California invites everyone to the Fiesta ng Calamba, St John the Baptist Feast Day on Saturday, June 22. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Veterans Sports Complex ( 22400 Moneta Ave., Carson, CA 90745 ). For more information, please contact Ed Lim at (949) 285-1403 or connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/Calambenos/ or the website: www.acasca.org.

Jimmy Bondoc and Angel Locsin

ment? (When you became famous, did you experience sexual harassment?) If yes, I encourage you and all the victims to report this to the police. But generalizing that sexual favor is a prerequisite to success is just wrong.”

On Thursday, May 23, Bondoc took to Facebook to clarify his statement. Calling her “Mam,” Bondoc said: “Why would I be happy for loss of jobs? That is a false assumption. Kayo po ang nag-generalize, hindi ako (You were the one who generalized it not me). When a network (any network) closes, it can mean a change of management or ownership.

“Ibig po sabihin (It means), deserving employees would probably be retained. Therefore, there is nothing in my post that connotes happiness over the termination of employees, but rather, the termination of the network’s system; Thank you for your prayers, although I am not having a bad day. But prayers are always needed especially if sincere.”

To which Locsin replied: “Let me ask: if you acknowledge the imperfection of the network, do you have any comments on the acquisition of ownership by its current owners in light of the allegations that it was transferred to them to the disadvantage of the government?”

In her recent tweet, Locsin said to Bondoc: “As you said ‘when a network closes it can mean a change of management or ownership’ keyword is can. I’m speaking for the thousands of employees that will have no job security if this happens.”

“The assumption I gave I coming from your statement that you are excited for the network to CLOSE. I am not a lawyer nor am I a politician. I have no knowledge of how it was acquired.”

On allegations of sexual harassment and rigged contests, Locsin encouraged Bondoc to report it to proper authorities. “Don’t just rant on Facebook. Your rant discredits the artists the truly worked hard to get to where they are,” she said.

Inquirer.net photos

“Magtulungan tayo at huwag magsiraan (Let’s help one another and not destroy each other). Let’s not wish ill of others rather let’s look for the proper solution. And yes, I was sincere when I said I will pray for you. Have a good day.”

While that was Locsin’s last statement, messages of encouragement and affirmation started pouring in from artists from other TV network and employees of ABS-CBN. I say, if there’s one good thing that’s been brought out by this man’s tirade, that is witnessing the overflowing support of the people who care to defend the station’s goodwill.

But what can you do to never be in Bondoc’s place? How do you not get yourself in situations that you could have easily avoided in the first place? My simple answer is: don’t use social media as an outlet of your personal vendetta and frustrations especially if it’s unwarranted.

Secondly, know your enemy.

Bondoc obviously has some unsettled grudge against the TV network but it would be wise for him to settle that matter privately because apparently, not everybody shares his beliefs. Lastly, whatever you do, do not – I repeat – DO NOT ever pick a fight with Darna.

Just kidding. On a serious note, a blanket statement such as “I eagerly wait for your demise” would inevitably be taken as “a message for everyone” and not to “someone in particular.”

In my experience, the saying “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all” has saved me many times than I can count. Maybe people in a position like Jimmy Bondoc should do the same for his own sake. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

11

America

J U N E 22

LU

A WISE man once said, “Life doesn’t come with an instruction manual.”

But it does come with some pretty basic rules on how NOT to be viral and hated in a span of 24 hours. This involves not wishing unemployment to anyone—or everyone, so to speak (direct or implied); not publicly accusing a major company of alleged sexual harassment and discrimination, or maybe not engage in a twitter/FB dialogue war with “Darna.”

However, it seems that Duterteappointee Jimmy Bondoc didn’t get the memo on this ‘coz he blatantly violated all of the above and has now gotten himself into a position that nobody wants or would ever want to be in.

And so, we ask: how not to be a Jimmy Bondoc?

It started with a post that is, in my opinion, just asking – rather begging – for an expected reaction.

In Bondoc’s own words in a Facebook post: “I AM EAGERLY AWAITING YOUR DEMISE. I know how this sounds. And I know the nasty comments which are bound to come. I don’t care. If you think COMELEC is bad, wait until you see the real machinery that is known as “the biggest network…This is not schadenfreude. This is hope! This is for real change. You have COUNTLESS VICTIMS, from sexual harassment to plain and simple bullying.”

“I am so happy that your time has come.”

It is impossible to ignore that kind of post. And as I have predicted, people would definitely react – and they did! Moments later, ABS-CBN contract artist Angel Locsin posted a comment calling out the singer (who was appointed vice president for entertainment of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation) saying, “Let me be the one to break this news to you so you don’t have to make excuses,” she began, playing on the lyrics of Bondoc’s hit song.

“The network might not be perfect but for you to be happy about thousands of people losing their jobs is pure evil. Maybe you’re just having a bad day. I will pray for you,” she said.

She continued: “Nung sumikat ka ba may na experience ka na sexual harass-

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 6-12, 2019

J U N E 24 -28

SIPA’s Filipino Summer Program in LA Happening from June 24-28, Search to Involve Pilipino Americans’ (SIPA) Filipino Summer Program is a fun, week-long experience that enriches, educates, and engages youth about the Filipino Culture! Youth will get to learn more about Filipino food, language, dance, arts, and music! Children ages 6-13 are able to participate, while older youth can volunteer. The program will be held at SIPA (3200 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026) from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. Drop-offs and pick-ups are at the SIPA parking lot at Dillion St. and Temple St. Each day is $30 for the first child. Every additional child will be $3 less a day (e.g., the second child will be $27/day, the third child would cost $24/day, and so on). If your family cannot fully afford the cost of SIPA’s Filipino Summer Program, the FEE CAN BE LOWERED depending on the financial situation. Families can pay by cash, credit/debit card (2.75% fee), Venmo (1% fee), or check!If interested, contact Maria Carmel Valendez by phone at 213-382-1819 ext. 107 or email at mvalendez@esipa.org.

J U N E 29

UST Medical Alumni Association of SoCal anniversary ball in Garden Grove, CA The UST Medical Alumni Association of SoCal will have its 25th year anniversary ball on Wednesday, June 29 at the Hyatt Regency Orange County (11999 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92840).

Mass begins at 5:30 p.m., with dinner reception at 7:30 p.m. Part of the proceeds will benefit the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and Hospital on Wheels. Tickets are $110 for premier and $90 for regular. Please RSVP by June 1 to Marilou Dichoso, MD at (310) 387-1632.

J U LY 2 0

The Ibaan Association USA-Canada gala dinner in LA The Ibaan Association USA-Canada will hold its 32nd Annual Gala Dinner & Dance July 20, 2019 from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. at the Hilton Los Angeles / Universal City - Ballroom A at 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, California 91608. For reservations call Monica Benitez at (323) 697-3731 / email: monica_benitez03@yahoo.com or Irene May Villafranca at (323) 423-2299 / email: imay02@ yahoo.com. Tickets are $85 for Adults and $40 for Children (3 to 10 years old). Please make checks payable to: Ibaan Association USA-Canada and mail to: Merly Pagunsan at 5025 Heintz St. Baldwin Park, CA 91706. For sponsorship information on our 2019 Souvenir Program please contact President Noli Reyes at homesbynoli@gmail.com or call (818) 458-7888. Please RSVP by April 12, 2019.

J U LY 24 -28

40th annual Philippine Nurses Association of America National Convention in Atlanta, GA The Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) will have its 40th annual national convention from July 24 to 28 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, GA, hosted by the PNA-GA chapter. More information and details TBA. To learn about the PNA-GA, please visit: https://pnaga.wildapricot.org/.

AU G U ST 1 - 9

University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association International Convention & Alaskan Cruise The University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association International, Inc. (UPNAAI) will have its 40th convention on a cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. The theme will be “In the New Millennium - UPNAAI at 40: Evolving and Emerging Nursing Roles.”

On Aug. 1. it will be UPNAAI Volunteers Service Day in Seattle, then 2-9 will be a cruise from Seattle, Juneau, Skagway, Endicott Arm & Dawes, Victoria, and back to Seattle. Convention Fee $100 for Alumni in addition to cruise pricing. No convention charge for friends and family members. Contact Hours will be provided for the educational conference. For more information/to register and view cruise rates, please visit https://www.upnaai.com/.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

12

June 6-12, 2019 • LAS VeGAS ASIAn JOuRnAL

EntErtainmEnt

Daniel leads celebration of all kinds of passion A FUN-filled day of singing, dancing, styling and games for those who live and celebrate their passions, the #PepsiPusoFest became an avenue for everyone to express themselves freely for the love of different passion points through interactive and fun activities.

The main show included musical performances by Unique and Kiana Valenciano, viral star Mimiyuuh featuring Allmost, along with dance numbers from AC Bonifacio and “America’s Got Talent” finalist, Junior New System. Nico Bolzico and Pam Swing also joined in on the fun together with their fans.

Daniel Padilla made a very special appearance to serenade his fans and gave away treasured possessions that have always been close to his heart. He also reminded everyone to go all out and embrace their passions like never before.

Up and coming artists such as Renee Dominique and Dominique Casacop took the stage to show off their vocal prowess while A-Team and Upeepz pumped up the jam with their dance routines. A showcase of out-of-the-box skills were also exhibited throughout the program with basketball tricks by Hype Streetball, pen-tapping by Dineson Caneda, beatboxing by Neil Rey Llanes, freestyle yoyo tricks by champion Miggy Hizon and comical flair by Comedy Manila. Guests were also treated to fun games which got them to play with pro volleyball and basketball stars.

Topnotch performances and different activities also allowed

Cepeda Inquirer.net

MARIEL de Leon excitedly announced to her fans that she has been signed by modeling agency True Model Management in New York City.

De Leon took to social media last May 30 to announce the beginning of the new chapter in her life. As per De Leon’s post, modeling in the US has always been her dream, but being a “bigger” girl made her think it would never happen. De Leon represented the country as Miss International Philippines back in 2017, but has since expressed her dislike of being labeled as a “beauty queen.”

“I grew up being surrounded by + seeing + hearing what the public and media said was ‘model worthy,’ ‘beauty queen worthy’ or even just ‘beautiful’ thinking that I’m supposed to drastically change myself into something

guests to showcase their talents and get lots of fun prizes. For the Love of Stories, guests were able to take the spotlight to shoot their own rendition of Pepsi’s new jingle titled “Sundin Ang Puso,” in collaboration with global pop group NowUnited.

The Love of Style booth then gave guests a chance to temporarily transform their hair to a shade they love from the style menu. The Love of Dance provided the opportunity to dance to the beat of “Sundin Ang Puso.”

Lastly, guests were able to dabble

Contributed photo

into singing and record their performance with their friends in the Love of Singing booth.

“Pepsi’s #SundinAngPuso campaign is all about encouraging Filipinos to pursue the things they have always wanted to do and to be confident in expressing themselves,” said Gutzee Segura, Pepsi Philippines Marketing Manager. “Through the #PepsiPusoFest, we wanted to give Filipinos an avenue to showcase their different passions and embrace whatever they do for the love of it.” (ManilaTimes.net)

Fil-Am screenwriter Michael Golamco on...

PAGE 10 Asian cast, it’s a joke cast,” said Buteau, who is also soon to be seen in the remake of the “First Wives Club.”

One of Golamco’s current projects also coming soon to Netflix is a live-action adaptation of Filipina-American author Erin Entrada Kelly’s Newbery Awardwinning novel, “Hello Universe.”

The book follows the character growth of a young Fil-Am boy named Virgil Salinas who is shy and gets bullied at school, and eventually finds himself stuck in a well where he learns how to speak out for himself and dealing with people in the process.

EMPLOYMENT

Mariel fulfills dream, joins New York-based modeling agency

by Cody

Daniel Padilla

“That’s what I love about this book, that these begin in the story isolated, but the universe brings them together,” said Golamco.

“Going back to what I said earlier, it’s that thing — putting the audience into the point of a view of a kid that normally is not the hero,” he added, referring to the character of Salinas.

As for “Always Be My Maybe,” Golamco said that it’s a must watch because it presents an incredibly familiar community — one we all live in.

“It’s kind of great to see yourself reflected on the screen because it lets you know that your life has merit — that somebody

saw that and decided that these characters belong on the movie screen deserve the full Hollywood treatment to tell their story. You need to see yourself reflected in the culture. All of us do. Every single person in this country.

Their stories are waiting to be told and this is one of them,” said Golamco.

“And it’s really funny,” he added, encouraging people to watch it with their family, make a party out of it, or use it as a “subtle hint to your crush.”

“Always Be My Maybe” was made available on Netflix on Friday, May 31, with limited released in select theaters.

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that I’m not just so I could ‘fit in’ or succeed,” De Leon said via Instagram. “Especially coming from an Asian country wherein the standards are even harder to measure up to…”

De Leon noted, however, that times have now changed and the modeling industry has become more diverse.

“The industry is now more diverse and accepting of different types of women and men! No matter the size, color, race, or background: YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND YOU ARE WORTHY!” True Model Management, founded by model and entrepreneur Dale Noelle, is known for representing models of all sizes and categories. It can be gleaned through De Leon’s hashtags that she will be modeling as a plus-size or curvy model.

“Through the years I have learned to love myself even through rough times and even if

Mariel de Leon Photo from Instagram/@mariadeleonofficial

nobody else did,” she said. “Now, I am the strong and confident woman I’ve always wanted to be. Or should I say ‘confidently beautiful’ and thicc!”

Congratulations, Mariel!

Jo Koy in ‘Comin’ In Hot’: When truth is funnier...

PAGE 10 find a way to make them laugh— and you’ve got an hour and a half to find a way to do it!”

Mentioned in his comedy act with as much prominence as Jo Koy’s mom is his son Joe, who’s now 16 years old. Doesn’t his teenage son get offended by the small penis jokes, especially the long and protracted ones—no pun intended—in “Comin’ In Hot”?

Does Joe still talk to him?

“My mom and Joe love it when I talk about them—they can’t get enough of those jokes,” he disclosed, laughing. “Besides, why would Joe get offended when I also say that about myself? If it doesn’t bother your dad, it shouldn’t bother you. [In my line of work] you’ve got to learn how to get some thick skin.

“It’s funny that you’re asking about that joke, though. Because I did ask my son, ‘Does that joke hurt you?’ He came up to me and said, ‘Make sure you do that joke, because it’s really funny.’”

Asked what it was like getting a standing ovation from Jay Leno’s persnickety audience on “The Tonight Show,” Jo Koy mused, “It changed my life. I was working as a shoe salesman at the time.

I didn’t realize how popular ‘The Tonight Show’ was until I ap-

peared in the show and got that standing ovation.

“I went to work the next day, and every other customer said they saw me get that standing ovation. They complimented me as they asked me to go get them a size-eight in their heels (laughs).

It was very humbling and rewarding at the same time.”

If you wonder why Jo Koy’s appreciation for the Philippines is noticeable in his shows, this could also be attributed to his six-year stay in the country as a preteen—which he remembers with palpable pride and fondness. ”I remember everything about it,” his resonant baritone brimming with nostalgia. “I remember the triangle and the watusi (firecrackers often used by Filipinos to greet the new year). I remember Chippy. I remember Sarsi in a bag. I remember wearing flipflops while riding bicycles down a hill.

“I remember eating pandesal in the morning from the guy carrying them in a basket. I remember catching a jeepney, and buying barbecue on a stick for a peso. I remember that part of my life—and it was so good! I remember and love everything about the Philippines.”

SERVICES

It’s hard not to get moved by the sincerity and effusive gratitude in Jo Koy’s voice, thanking us for complimenting him and his shows for helping put the Philippines on the entertainment map.

When will he visit the Philippines again?

“We’re coming back very soon, I promise you—so get ready for it,” he beamed. “I can’t make the announcement just yet, but it’s going to be something very big and something I’m proud of.”

Jo Koy’s “love affair” with his mother’s homeland was even more evident when we asked him what it was like performing for Filipinos in the series of shows that he topbilled in the Philippines in 2017.

“Oh, I cried a lot. I teared up a lot,” he shared. “And it was like a crazy homecoming of sorts, especially for my sister Gemma, who also works for me. We adopted her at a very young age, and she came to the States when she was about 13.

“To go back to the Philippines with her for what I call a ‘dream job’—to provide a beautiful life for her, and take her back to see her family, and also see my side of the family—was just beautiful.

Comedy did it. Comedy got me there!”

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13

Young Fil-Ams share what Philippine Independence Day means to them

BY RAE ANN VARONA / AJPRESS EVERY year, Filipinos both in the Philippines and abroad celebrate Philippine Independence Day on June 12, also known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Araw ng Kasarinlanâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;Araw ng Kalayaan.â&#x20AC;?

In the Philippines, it is observed with a day off from work and classes. Meanwhile, the celebration across the United States often takes form in parades and festivals filled with Filipino food vendors, performances, and parades.

A quick history lesson on Philippine Independence Day traces back over a century ago when the Philippines â&#x20AC;&#x201D; after four centuries under Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rule â&#x20AC;&#x201D; declared independence on June 12, 1898.

But as many historians and Filipinos point out, June 12 didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mark the true liberation for the Philippines as the country in less than a year found itself under United States rule.

Upon losing the war with the U.S., Spain gave the Philippines to the U.S. as part of the 1989 Treaty of Paris Agreement. The Philippines thus became a U.S. territory with the Philippine-American War beginning a year after.

It took years for the Philippines to gain independence from the U.S. Sometime during the Philippine-American War, U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt declared victory over the Philippines ironically on the fourth of July in 1902.

After giving into the pressure of granting the Philippines independence and proclaiming amnesty between the two countries, William Howard Taft was elected as president and decided to put a halt on granting the Philippines independence.

Despite being defeated in 1912

by President Woodrow Wilson, who favored Philippine inde-

Illustration by Jillian PeĂąalosa

pendence, plans for a sovereign Philippines werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t made until the mid-1930s.

After one last set back due to World War II and the Japanese invasion of the Philippines, the Philippines was finally declared independent on July 4, 1946 through the Treaty of Manila.

For 15 years, the Philippines celebrated its independence annually on July 4 until in 1962 when Philippine President Diosdado Macapagal officially changed the date back to June 12.

Now nearly 60 years later, Filipinos in the U.S. continue to honor Philippine Independence Day, with the younger members of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fil-Am generation making their own meanings out of the holiday.

Christine Liwag Dixon, a FilAm writer from New York, sees the irony in its June 12 celebration date and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Philippine Independence Day is a mixed bag for me. On one hand, it marks our independence from Spain, but it also marks the beginning of American colonial rule.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I do, however, appreciate the cultural aspect,â&#x20AC;? added Dixon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the very least, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an excuse to get together with the community with some Pinoy barbecue and halo-halo.â&#x20AC;?

Aaron Jugueta, who works as a project coordinator for a non-profit in Miami, Florida, sees Philippine Independence Day more as a day to recognize the people who were involved throughout the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey to independence. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Philippine Independence Day means to me the liberalization and recognition of the islands as a people and as a nation,â&#x20AC;? said Jugueta.â&#x20AC;&#x153; A great way to celebrate it would be to remember what was fought for and the people who died fighting for it.â&#x20AC;?

Virginia-based Fil-Am rapper Noah-O similarly sees Philippine Independence Day as being an opportunity to honor those who fought for the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; independence.

He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Philippine Independence Day is a time to celebrate our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past and honor those including my grandparents who fought to keep the Philippines

Fil-Am Crystal Tolentino shares photos from the Vallejo Pista Sa Nayon, an annual Philippine Independence celebration, in Vallejo, CA on June 1.

Contributed photos

free.â&#x20AC;?

According to the United States Office of the Historian, over 20,000 Filipino combatants died during the Philippine-American War. Modern sources say that as many as 200,000 Filipino civilians died as a result of the war.

But shared among Fil-Ams was that Philippine Independence Day presented an opportunity to celebrate Philippine culture and what makes the Philippines so unique as a country.

This is especially true for FilAms who grew up in dual American and Filipino households.

Crystal Tolentino, a young FilAm mom who attended this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pista Sa Nayon festival in Vallejo, California with her son, described

Philippine Independence Day as providing an opportunity for people â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including Filipinos â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to learn more about emerging Fil-Am talents looking to promote the culture. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t raised in a traditional Filipino household, so I basically had to rely on articles and books to study my roots,â&#x20AC;? said Tolentino.

Attending Philippine Independence Day festivals have not only allowed her to immerse herself in Filipino culture and see first hand the impact of the current Fil-Am community, but have allowed her to share her experiences with her son. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I do love seeing our Filipino community come together as one big family and support each other

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a lot of undiscovered talent out there from chefs, clothing designers, to musicians,â&#x20AC;? said Tolentino. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And I feel that Filipinos are often overlooked and we have to work twice as hard to be recognized.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a time where we can display our talents, acknowledge each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accomplishments and show each other support,â&#x20AC;? she added.

Tolentino said her son particularly loved the martial arts demonstrations. As for herself, she loved the entertainment lineup. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The dance groups took us all back to our roots,â&#x20AC;? said Tolentino, highlighting the colorful costumes worn by the dancers.

PAGE 14

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Kathryn, Sarah both named Star Awards’Best Actress Rising soon: Heart’s animal shelter in Sorsogon

by Jan

Milo Severo Philstar.com

ACTRESSES Kathryn Bernardo and Sarah Geronimo were both named Best Actress at 35th Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Movies on Sunday, June 2.

Kathryn received the award held at in Resorts World Manila’s Newport Performing Arts Theater for her role in the movie “The Hows of Us” while Sarah bagged the award for her role in the Filipino adaptation of the Korean movie “Miss Granny.”

Kathryn also received the Movie Love Team of the Year award with her on- and off-screen partner Daniel Padilla.

The Best Actor, meanwhile, was received by Ogie Alcasid for his performance in the Cinemalaya entry “Kuya Wes.” “Rainbow Sunset” received the Movie of the Year while “Citizen Jake” bagged the Indie Movie of the Year award.

Here is the complete list of awardees in PMPC Star Awards for Movies.

New Movie Actor of the Year: Ryle Santiago (“Bakwit Boys”) and Danzel Fernandez (“Otlum”) New Movie Actress of the Year: Sanya Lopez (“Wild and Free)

by KriSSy aguilar Inquirer.net

HEART Evangelista is taking her love for animals to another level by building an animal shelter in Sorsogon.

Evangelista shared on Monday, June 3, via Instagram a photo of herself at the site of her soon-torise animal shelter with Sorsogon tagged as location.

“As you all know, I’ve always had a soft spot for animals and it’s a dream of mine to be able to do more to champion their welfare,” Kathryn Bernardo and Sarah Geroninmo ABS-CBN photos” she said.

“This will be the site of one Movie Child Performer of the Letty Celi, Veronica Samio Movie Supporting Actor of the special endeavor that is near and Year: Ken Ken Nuyad (“Liway”) dear to my heart— building a Indie Movie Screenwriter of Year: Arjo Atayde (“Buybust”) Movie Supporting Actress of facility which provides services the Year: Mike de Leon, Atom Araullo and Noel Pascual (“Citizen the Year: Cherie Gil (“Citizen such as spaying, neutering, tagJake”) ging and shots, and a community Jake”) Movie Love Team of the Year: that welcomes animals and treats Movie Editor of the Year: Jay Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Ber- them with love,” she added.

Halili (“Buybust”) The 34-year-old actress also Movie Musical Scorer of the nardo Movie Director of the Year: Joel expressed excitement to finally Year: Len Calvo (“Miss Granny”) Movie Original Theme Song Lamangan (“Rainbow’s Sunset”) see her dream become reality.

Movie Actor of the Year: Ogie “This is step one and I am alof the Year: “Sa’yo Na” from Alcasid (“Kuya Wes”) “Rainbow’s Sunset.”

Movie Actress of the Year: Nora Aunor Ulirang Artista Lifetime Achievement Award: Kathryn Bernardo (“The Hows of Us”) and Sarah Geronimo (“Miss Dante Rivero PAGE 13 Ulirang Alagad ng Pelikula Granny”) Indie Movie of the Year: “Citisa Likod ng Kamera: Laurice “I also enjoyed the musicians zen Jake” Guillen — seeing Fil-Am local singing Movie of the Year: “Rainbow’s groups such as Legaci and One Outstanding Pillars of PMPC: Ethel Ramos, Ronald Constantino, Sunset” Voice perform against after so many years, then to see upcoming Fil-Am artists like Ruby Ibarra and CRSB take the stage,” said Tolentino.

Compared to previous years, Tolentino noticed this year’s to be much bigger and more diverse.

by KriSSy aguilar “Everybody was dancing, inInquirer.net cluding my son. I couldn’t’ stop capturing the moments with my IT felt like “A Whole New World” for singer camera and all I could think about Morissette Amon when she got the chance to meet was, ‘Wow! Great job Vallejo!” actor Will Smith and sing with Disney composer said Tolentino.

Alan Menken.

She plans on taking her son Disney Philippines posted Monday a video of to the Kalayaan Festival, another Morissette meeting the two international personaliPhilippine Independence Day ties as part of the promotion of the Disney movie festival in San Francisco’s Union “Aladdin.”

Square later this month.

“Lea told me about you!” Menken told Morissette For half-Filipina college stuas they met, to which the latter replied, “Lea’s such dent Onike Browne in New York, a sweetheart!”

Philippine Independence Day They were referring to Tony Award-winning has always been an opportunity actress Lea Salonga who was the original voice for her to celebrate her Filipino of Princess Jasmine in the 1992 animated film of Morisette Amon with Will Smith and composer Alan Menken side.

“Aladdin.”

Photo from Instagram/@itsmorisette “Knowing how much the PhilSmith, who plays the Genie in the 2019 version, ippines has suffered through turned the tables and made a wish to hear Amon Jasmine. sing “A Whole New World.”

This garnered applause from Smith and Menken colonialism makes me want to “I know I’m supposed to be the Genie, but you who complemented Amon saying, “You hit some celebrate our independence every year,” said Browne. “The Philipknow, can the Genie have a wish? Because when you great notes there though!” have the master and the lovely voice of Morissette Amon was earlier handpicked by Disney to do a pines has a rich, diverse culture here, I mean I would like to make the wish that I local version of the Disney hit “A Whole New World” and we truly deserve to celebrate and be proud of it.” hear the two of you,” Smith said. alongside Darren Espanto.

She attended the annual PhilipMenken then played the piano and sang the part Espanto, however, did not get to meet Smith and pine Independence Day Parade in of Aladdin, while Amon sang the part of Princess Menken due to prior commitments, said Amon.

Morissette meets Will Smith, sings with Disney composer Alan Menken

Heart Evangelista

ready brimming with excitement for this special project and I can’t wait to finally turn this dream into reality! Doing this one step at a time until we get there,” she said.

Evangelista has been an advo-

Photo from Instagram/@iamhearte

cate of animal protection and collaborates with Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).

Last year, she launched a campaign with PAWS, “Have a Heart for Aspins” urging the public to “#AdoptDontShop.”

Young Fil-Ams share what Philippine...

New York City, and has attended it every year for the past five or so years.

“It’s so nice seeing how the various islands display their cultures.

I get chills every time, honestly,” said Browne.

“I always look forward to the floats with drums and I love the dances dedicated to mangoes,” she added. “I’m Cebuano as well, so of course I get excited seeing Cebu get out there too.

I really loved their performance this year.”

Also attending the parade was Fil-Am William McGuire, who like Browne, saw the celebration as an opportunity to celebrate his mother’s culture and build a connection with other Fil-Ams. “That sense of connection was something I didn’t appreciate enough until last Sunday, (June 2) where many new people met me with kindness and camaraderie,” shared McGuire. “The feeling was unfamiliar to me since I live far away from most family on my mom’s side.”

He added, “After taking my own initiative to celebrate, I can say I learned our capability of building a future where we could eat, love, and laugh together.”

Noah-O — who attended the parade for the first time — further found it to not only be a way for him to experience Filipino culture,

but to actively exercise his voice as a Fil-Am. “It was beautiful to attend and have the opportunity to connect with my roots,” said Noah-O. “To hear my people and see so many Filipino was overwhelming as I live in Richmond, Virginia which doesn’t have a large Filipino population.”

He marched alongside the Malaya Movement organization, which he became involved with in 2017, after they helped him get an interview with ABS-CBN’s Don Tagala after seeing him on the Hip Hop show “Sway in the Morning.”

Noah-O’s music has focused on the struggles of marginalized communities, including racism experienced by African Americans in his home state of Virginia.

Marching with the Malaya Movement was his way of bridging his platform with the Fil-Am community, while at the same time sharing Filipino culture with his close friends otherwise unfamiliar with it.

“I really enjoyed being able to connect with new people, and picking up souvenirs for my loved ones,” said Noah-O. “I really enjoyed the amount of love and unity among our people. And being able to expose some of my friends to our culture and history was great.”

31st Anniversary Celebration of the Feastday of Our Mother of Perpetual Help

Monday June 24, 2019

Tel Nos. (702) 569-5528 Julie 510-3708 Toots (725) 201-3802 Vivian You can park at the left side of the Church and at Douglas Parking garage next to the Rectory Casino Center Blvd. validating ticket available from the ushers please pick it up as soon as you get to the church.

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