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O C T OBER 26-NOV EMB ER 1, 2018 Volume 12 - No. 1 • 2 Sections – 16 Pages

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Duterte fires all Customs execs amid ‘shabu’ scandal

by NESTOR

CORRALES Inquirer.net

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, October 25, fired all commissioners and department heads of the Bureau of Customs as the agency was rocked with drug smuggling scandal.

“I am ordering the freezing of all, all section, department units of the Bureau of Customs out,” Duterte said in a speech during the anniversary of the Philippine Coast Guard in Manila.

“Out lahat (everybody out). To the last man, out.

The commissioners are out, the department heads, out,” he added.

The president made the announcement as he moved Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda).

Lapeña is under fire after a shipment of P6.8 billion worth of shabu allegedly slipped past the BoC under Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña

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Inquirer.net photo

USA

DATELINE Fil-Am woman in Orange County killed after large tree falls on vehicle FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

A 34-year-old Filipina-American passed away Monday morning, October 15, after she was trapped in a vehicle that was hit by a large tree.

Dennet Bermas from Tustin, California was identified by officials after rescue crews responded to a report of the accident on the 14400 block of Red Hill Avenue. Also damaged were a carport and power lines.

“Decedent from today’s wind-related tree incident in Tustin is identified as Dennet Bermas, 34, Tustin. Official cause of death is pending autopsy,” tweeted Orange County Sheriff’s Department on Monday, October 15.

“It’s hard to express what words to say about DenDen,” reads a GoFundMe page created by Bermas’ family to cover burial expenses. “She’s a person that I should say was sent from heaven, but taken so abruptly from this world. A person who is an angel,

NEW NATIONAL ARTISTS. President Rodrigo Duterte poses for a photo with the National Artist Awardees following the awarding ceremony at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday, October 24. Joining the President are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chair Virgilio Almario, and other officials from the NCCA. Full story on page A5.

Malacañang photo by King Rodriguez

Benigno Aquino III, Leni Robredo endorse opposition Senate 12

by HELEN

FLORES Philstar.com

MANILA — Betting on their good and clean track record, Vice President Leni Robredo yesterday expressed confidence in the victory of candidates of the opposition coalition in the May 2019 senatorial elections.

Robredo, who chairs the Liberal Party, led the presentation of the Oposisyon Koalisyon (OK) slate in Barangay Parang, Marikina City.

The opposition candidates include former senator Mar Roxas, former Quezon congressman Erin Tañada, Maranao advocate Samira Gutoc-Tomawis, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, human rights lawyer Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno, election lawyer Romulo

Macalintal, incumbent Sen. Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV and former solicitor general Florin Hilbay.

Of the eight candidates, only Aquino, Tañada and Roxas belong to LP. Roxas was not able to attend the event because he is abroad, according to Aquino.

“The eight candidates whom we will field come from different backgrounds but their capabilities are beyond question,” the Vice President said in a speech delivered in Filipino.

Robredo admitted that these candidates are not as popular as some others, but she Former president Benigno Aquino III joins Vice President Leni Robredo and senators Antonio believes they will win as long as the pub- Trillanes and Francis Pangilinan in singing the national anthem during the presentation of the lic would unite for them, relating her own opposition senatorial candidates in Marikina on Wednesday, October 24.

Facebook purges 95 pages and Cabinet ‘good’ rating a nod 39 accounts in the Philippines to govt’s taming of inflation

by AJPRESS

by RALPH

VILLANUEVA ManilaTimes.net

SOCIAL networking site Facebook on Tuesday, October 23, has shut down a total of 95 pages and 39 accounts linked to President Rodrigo Duterte and Imee Marcos, daughter of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos for operating as a “spam u PAGE A3 network.”

According to a statement from Facebook, the said pages and accounts were “encouraging people to visit low quality websites that contain little substantive content and are full of disruptive ads.”

“These pages ranged from political to entertainment content, but all were sharTHE HAGUE – International Criminal Court ing links to the same advertising click (ICC) prosecutor Fatou Bensouda is continuu PAGE A4 ing with her preliminary examination of the Duterte administration’s so-called war against illegal drugs despite the country’s withdrawal from the treaty that created the tribunal.

Speaking before over 1,800 delegates at the One Young World last Saturday, October 20, Bensouda cited the case in the Philippines as among those currently being handled by her office.

“My office as the court’s engine is increasingly delivering on its mandate as we are currently examining atrocity crimes from all Sen. Panfilo Lacson corners of the globe. From Ukraine, Nigeria, Colombia and Venezuela, to the Philippines, Palestine and Iraq, just to name a few,” she said.

“I have asked the ICC judges for authorization to investigate in Afghanistan and we are progressing in the collection of evidence of alleged crimes in the Central African Republic, in Georgia and in Burundi,” she added.

Bensouda said they are also building prosecution cases in Libya, Uganda and

PH drug war still under examination, ICC says

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Philstar.com photo by Michae Varcas

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House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

Inquirer.net photos

Inquirer.net photo

THE “good” rating that the Duterte cabinet received in the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey shows the people’s appreciation of the government’s efforts to address inflation, Malacañang said.

The cabinet’s net satisfaction rating in the SWS poll jumped by seven points, to +32 in September compared with June’s +25.

This was good for a “good” rating, a notch higher than the “moderate” one last quarter.

The survey was conducted from September 15 to 23.

In a statement, Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said the timing of the survey said a lot about the government’s efforts to bring down prices, as well as the Filipinos’ perceptions of official actions of the Duterte administration on the issue.

“Since the survey was conducted during the month of September when inflation was at 6.7 percent, the findings tell us that our people, indeed, recognize and appreciate the efforts of the administration in

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Senators reject PH withdrawal from IPU

by AJPRESS SENATORS Franklin Drilon, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, and Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday, October 23, opposed the proposal of House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for the Philippines to withdraw from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

“I oppose the proposal of Arroyo that we withdraw from the IPU just because this global body of parliamentarians expressed its concern over the political persecution of our fellow Senators Leila de Lima and (Antonio) Sonny Trillanes,” Senate minority leader Drilon said.

“House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo should mind her own and we will mind our own,” the minority leader added.

Lacson also claimed that the country’s withdrawal from the union is “premature” and also on the wrong premise as reported

by The Manila Times.

“The IPU has yet to act on its Human Rights Committee’s recommendation to the IPU Governing Council. Having said that, it is premature, if at all, to denounce the IPU as a whole, much less withdraw membership from the body,” Lacson said.

“Second, by withdrawing, it would imply that the Philippine

Senate acknowledges the political persecution of opposition senators. Third, it is the Senate, not the House of Representatives, that is a member of the IPU, so I’m not sure where Speaker GMA is coming from,” he added.

Hontiveros also criticized the proposal and tagged it as a “virtual admission of guilt on the part of the Duterte government.”

“It only confirms the IPU’s serious concerns about our country’s worsening human rights record. If this goes on, the way it’s going, the Philippines will

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october 26-november 1, 2018 • neW YorK AnD neW JerSeY ASIAn JoUrnAL

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From the Front Page

Duterte fires all Customs...

PAGE A1 his watch. “Si General LapeĂąa will move to Tesda. I will promote you to a Cabinet member position,â€?

Duterte said in a speech during the anniversary of the Philippine Coast Guard.

Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) administrator Rey Leonardo Guerrero, meanwhile, will lead the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Duterte added.

LapeĂąa has been under heavy criticisms because of the P11-billion worth of shabu that was allegedly smuggled inside the country in August. However, MalacaĂąang

said LapeĂąa still has the “full trust and confidenceâ€? of the president.

Duterte went on to warn LapeĂąa that handling Tesda could be “messy at timesâ€? but he said he believes LapeĂąa’s training as a military man will serve him well. “Sid, [LapeĂąa] ‘yung trabaho ng Tesda is quite something of‌ it could be messy at times, but I’m sure your training as a military man just like Jagger [Guerrero] would go well for the country,â€? he said. “That’s the reason why I said time and again. I have nothing against the bureaucracy, pero

pag gusto mong, if you want something done and done fast per your order, you get a military man,� he added.

Duterte noted that he would soon appoint a retired military officer to replace Guerrero in Marina.

The former military official earlier said the four magnetic lifters discovered in Cavite did not contain illegal drugs.

But he later backpedalled, saying that the lifters did contain shabu.

Amid the shabu scandal, he has denied that he was involved in a cover-up on the smuggling of drugs in the country. n

Benigno Aquino III, Leni Robredo endorse...

PAGE A1 experience in the 2016 national election. “Many are saying that this will be a tough fight for them.

But I think I’m the best example.

Many have said that I didn’t have the chance (to win the vice presidency). But because the people united for me, the one percent to vice president became possible,� she said, referring to her initial ratings in surveys prior to the May 2016 polls.

Apart from Robredo, former president Benigno Aquino III, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman and Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo also attended the event.

Robredo said the opposition

remains “very alive� despite being supposedly threatened by the present administration. “In spite of the hardship they face in being part of the opposition now, they still choose to stand firm and continue the fight.

Many are saying that the opposition is silent but it is very much alive,� she said.

For his part, former president Aquino called on voters to look not on the popularity but the good and clean track record of the opposition candidates. “We’re showing eight individuals whom we can be proud of, who have dreams for our country,� he said.

Hilbay, who served as solicitor general under the previous administration, led the Philippines’

case against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague over disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines won the case.

Hilbay topped the Bar in 1999.

As a human rights lawyer, Diokno vowed to improve the present justice system.

Diokno chairs the Free Legal Assistance Group and is the founding dean of the De La Salle University College of Law. Macalintal, a veteran election lawyer, vowed to strengthen the government’s support and benefits given to senior citizens.

Gutoc-Tomawis, a Marawi civic leader, vowed to push for women’s rights empowerment in the Senate. n

Senators reject PH withdrawal...

PAGE A1 soon run out of intergovernmental bodies that it can be part of.

President Rodrigo Duterte cannot withdraw our country from the world,� Hontiveros said.

The IPU is said to be an organization of national parliamentarians worldwide with 178 members and 12 associate members. The union aims to “protect and build global democracy through political dialog and concrete action.�

Drilon, Lacson and Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto were among the senators that were a part of the Philippine

delegation this month to the 139th IPU conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

Other lawmakers included in the said conference were Arroyo, Paranaque City Representative Gustavo Tambunting, Kabayan Party List Representative Ron Salo, Sagip Party List Representative Rodante Marcoleta, and Valenzuela City Representative Eric Martinez. “Arroyo’s proposal is despairing, defeatist and will be seen by the world as a tacit admission that indeed critical lawmakers are being persecuted under the Duterte administration,� Drilon

stated.

Senate President Vicente “Tito� Sotto III, however, declined to deliberately comment on the said rejection from his fellow senators. “I am inclined to concur but after due consultation with my colleagues,� Sotto responded. “Perhaps the IPU’s human rights committee should be reminded that the Philippines is a sovereign state with a working judicial process, and a Constitution that decrees the separation of powers for the executive, legislative and judicial branches,�

Sotto added. n

PREPARING FOR ALL SAINTS DAY. Flower shops at Dangwa in Dapitan St., Manila on Wednesday, October 24 are getting ready for the observance of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2, when Filipinos remember their dearly departed.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

PH drug war still under examination...

PAGE A1

CĂ´te d’Ivoire, and are pushing for convictions for perpetrators of alleged atrocity crimes in Democratic Republic of Congo and in Mali. “Sixteen warrants of arrest are pending against individuals who are believed with reasonable grounds to have committed Rome Statute crimes,â€? she added, referring to the international treaty that created the ICC. The office of the ICC prosecutor has declined a request for interview on the status of the preliminary examination on the Philippines but, in an earlier statement, Bensouda said the examination of the situation in the Philippines will analyze crimes allegedly committed in the context of the war on drugs implemented by the Duterte administration. “Specifically, it has been alleged that since 1 July 2016, thousands of persons have been killed for reasons related to their alleged involvement in illegal drug use or dealing,â€? she said in an advisory in February. “While some of such killings have reportedly occurred in the context of clashes between or within gangs, it is alleged that many of the reported incidents involved extrajudicial killings in the course

ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda addresses over 1,800 delegates in the One Young World forum in The Hague last Saturday. She cites the Philippines as among the countries currently under preliminary examination by her office.

Photo screengrabbed from One Young World live feed

of police anti-drug operations.�

The announcement prompted the Philippine government to withdraw from the treaty, with Duterte repeatedly stating that he will not allow the ICC to place him under its jurisdiction. In a statement in March, Bensouda said the ICC retains its jurisdiction over crimes committed during the time in which a state was party to the Rome Statute. “A preliminary examination is not an investigation. It is an initial step to determine whether there is a reasonable basis to proceed with an investigation.

Specifically, under Article 53(1) of the Rome Statute, the Prosecutor must consider issues of jurisdiction, admissibility and the interests of justice in making this determination,� she said. “In the independent and impartial exercise of its mandate, the Office of the Prosecutor will also give consideration to all submissions and views conveyed to it during the course of each preliminary examination, strictly guided by the requirements of the Rome Statute,� added Bensouda.

(Patricia Lourdes Viray/Philstar. com)

Pilgrimage to Some of ITALY’s Highlights and Miracles of the Eucharist 6SLULWXDO 'LUHFWRU 5(9 -2(/ %8*$6 ĹĄ 1RYHPEHU WR 1RYHPEHU 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 0RQ Ĺ&#x; 86$ 520( 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7XHV Ĺ&#x; 5RPH Upon our arrival in Rome, our Tour Escort will welcome us to Italy. Rome is the heart, home and the spiritual capital of over one billion Catholics all over the world. After a short panoramic orientation of this Eternal City to us Roman Catholics, we will have our dinner and overnight rest at this great ancient City.

DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY :HG Ĺ&#x; 5RPH 3DSDO $XGLHQFH 5RPH This morning before we continue with our tour, we will have a Papal Audience.

Then after, we will visit the famous Coliseum and see the Forum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, one of the best preserved ancient monuments in the world. Celebrate the Holy Eucharist at St Peter Basilica St Joseph Chapel .Short stop in Trevi Fountain, before heading to our Hotel. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D)

'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7KXUV Ĺ&#x; 5RPH %DVLOLFDV We will visit the Vatican Museum this morning and the Sistine Chapel to admire the awesome masterpieces of Michaelangelo, and even ancient Greek and Roman artists. the largest church in Roman Catholicism, St. Peter’s Basilica. Holy Eucharist at ST Mary Major, Followed by visit of the Basilica. We continue to visit the rest of the major Basilicas within the walls of Rome, and St. John Lateran, St Paul Outside the Wall. We will also pray at the Scala Santa or the Holy Stairs. St. Helena transported the steps from Jerusalem; the same steps that Christ ascended to receive Pilate’s unjust condemnation.

DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN ROME (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY )UL

Ĺ&#x; 5RPH 6DQ *LRYDQQL 5RWRQGR 2018 is the 100th Anniversary of the stigmatization of St Pio. Church Will have Monthly Pastoral Program of Activities for the whole year. San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of St Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July, 1916 until his death on 23 September, 1968. Enjoy the drive going to San Giovanni, after we check in our Hotel. vWe visit the Shrines of St Padre Pio of Pietralcina as well as the places associated with him, such as the Shrine of Our Lady of Grace that contains his tomb. Here, we spend some time meditating, see his room, his confessional box and the cruciďŹ x that gave him his supernatural Crucifying stigmata, Celebrate Holy Eucharist (Hotel Gran Paradiso) DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN San Giovanni Rotondo (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 6DW Ĺ&#x; 6$1 *,29$11, 52721'2 This Morning we visit the new and Modern Basilica of St Padre Pio, See his uncorrupt body. Celebrate Holy Eucharist Spend some time meditating in this awesome Basilica. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO (Hotel Gran Paradiso)

'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 6XQ Ĺ&#x; 6DQ *LRYDQQL 5RWRQGR /DQFLDQR /RUHWR MASS AND BREAKFAST. We arrive at Lanciano, famous for the Miracle of the Eucharist. Near the Piazza Plebiscito, the Miracle is inside the Sanctuary of the Eucharistic Miracle. The miracle took place during the 8th century when a Basiline monk doubted the Real Presence of our Lord in the Eucharist. He found himself holding the host that had changed into Real Flesh and the Wine on the altar had changed into Real Blood. We continue our pilgrimage to the great Marian shrine of Loreto to see the famous sacred home of the most Holy Family, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Since 1294 the holy home has been located inside the Basilica of Loreto. Celebrate Holy Eucharist in Lanciano. DINNER AND OVERNIGHT IN Assisi.

'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 0RQ Ĺ&#x; /RUHWR $VVLVL Today we explore the hilltop birthplace of St Francis of Assisi. In the Crypt of St Francis Basilica lies the tomb of one of the most humble and beloved Saints of all times, St. Francis of Assisi, Holy Eucharist at the Crypt of St. Francis See the Basilica of St Clare, with her incorrupt body, and the little Church of St. Damiano and its CruciďŹ x from which Jesus spoke to Francis about his mission in 1206: “Go, Francis, and rebuild my house, which as you see is falling into ruin.â€? We visit the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, located in the lower plains of Assisi, and the place where the miracle of the Eucharist of Assisi took place in 1240. The small Church of the Porziuncola is inside the Basilica itself. Pope Honorius III granted a plenary indulgence for those entering this humble Church on August 1st and 2nd every year, with Confession, reception of the Eucharist and no attachment to venial sins. (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7XHV Ĺ&#x; $VVLVL 6LHQD )ORUHQFH We will spend half day in Siena. Begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of the Renaissance art and dedicated to St Catherine of Siena. You will learn about the city’s history while admiring it’s cathedrals, Museum, and libraries .Also you will admire the famous piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares. Continue to Florence. (BB,D) We start with a guided walking tour of Florence, this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist.

Rest of the day free (BB,D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY :HG Ĺ&#x; )ORUHQFH 5RPH Leave Florence around 2PM Arrived Rome almost dinner time (BB.D) 'D\ Ĺ&#x; 1RY 7KXUV Ĺ&#x; 5RPH 86$ End of our wonderful Pilgrimage

Please call QTS Tour and Travel NOW at 1 (714) 288-0800 or (714) 761-6280 1095 N Main St. Suite O, Orange, CA 92867

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Dateline USa

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL •

OctObER 26-NOvEmbER 1, 2018

Pacquiao to speak at Oxford

by Joaquin

Henson Philstar.com

CHRISTMAS LANTERNS. Christmas decors and lanterns have been lighting up stalls in malls including at SM Megatrade Hall in Mandaluyong City starting on Wednesday, October 24. As a tradition, Filipinos begin the countdown to Christmas on the onset of the ‘ber’ months.

PNA photo by Rico H. Borja

The Battle of Leyte Gulf, the greatest naval battle ever

by GPP

THE Battle of the Leyte Gulf (October 23 to 26, 1944) which followed the successful Leyte landing on October 20, 1944 is considered the greatest naval battle of all time (Military History. Norwich University. Retrieved March 7, 2015; William Manchester, American Historian).

It was considered as the greatest naval battle of all time for the following reasons: • Impact on history and final outcome of the Second World War The outcome of the naval battle that happened on October 23 to 26, 1944 off the Gulf of Leyte, Philippines resulted in the final destruction of mighty Imperial Japanese navy, paved the way for the invasion of Japan and its surrender in September 1945, ending the Pacific theatre of the Second World War.

• Extent and geographic size of battle The battle of Leyte Gulf involved thousands of square miles of the Pacific Ocean, from as far down as the Surigao Straight on the south, Guam on the East and the Batanes Islands strait on the North.

• Units and strength of the naval forces involved The battle involved about 370 ships from both sides (Japan/ Australia 300 versus Japan 67+) and more than 1,800 planes (US 1500, Japan 300+). It took the U.S. Navy several months to report what happened at the Battle of the Leyte Gulf because the battle “had been too large, involved too many U.S. military personnel, and had resulted in too much loss of life just to ignore.” It involved the last of the only 2 “battleship-to-battleship” shooting engagement during World War II (the first one involving the battle at Guadalcanal).

Cabinet ‘good’ rating a nod to...

PAGE A1 stabilizing the prices of basic commodities and bringing a comfortable and dignified life for all,” Panelo added.

The 6.7 percent inflation rate was the highest in nine years.

Malacañang blamed rising oil prices in the world market as one of the main drivers of inflation, prompting the Duterte administration to float the possibility of suspending the second tranche of the fuel excise tax under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. The possible suspension, however, will result in about P40 billion in revenue losses for the government, the Department of Finance said.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the record-high inflation was mainly brought about by the heavily weighted food and non-alcoholic beverages index, as well as alcoholic beverages and tobacco.

To address the rising inflation, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Administrative Order 13, which removes non-tariff barriers and streamlines administrative procedures on the importation of agricultural products;

Memorandum Order 26, which directs the Departments of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to adopt measures to reduce gap between farmgate prices and retail prices of agricultural products; MO 27, which also directs the DA and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to adopt measures to ensure efficient and seamless delivery of imported agriculture and fishery products from ports to markets; and MO 28, which further directs the National Food Authority to immediately release existing rice stocks in its warehouses.

On Friday, October 19, Panelo voiced confidence that the Filipinos will experience a “disinflationary” trend this month.

Despite the higher net rating, he said, members of the cabinet would not be complacent and will continue to work hard.

“Notwithstanding the favorable survey numbers, the members of the official family of the president will not grow complacent in addressing national issues,” Panelo added. n

Fil-Am woman in Orange County...

PAGE A1

whose heart is ever filled with love for the people around her. A person who brings joy on every moment that you share with her.

A person who I wish was not taken at an early age, who could have spread and shared her love to more people that she could have met.”

On the GoFundMe page, friends, family members, and community members shared their condolences, describing Bermas as kind, generous, downto-earth, and always showering people with kindness and gregariousness.

Officials said that Bermas was pulling her car out of a carport, when the tree fell onto and crushed the vehicle, downing power lines in the process.

Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Captain Tony Bommarito said OCFA technical rescue teams were sent to scene at around 9:00 a.m., and pronounced Bermas deceased shortly after.

A neighbor of Bermas told KTLA that he saw the eucalyptus tree fall while he was walking his dog.

“I saw the lady close her door and lock it,” said Bermas’ neighbor, Danny McCabe. “I said, ‘Good morning, have a good day.’

And before I got to my house, I heard the tree snap and I turned around and watched it fall.”

“I started ripping tree branches up, trying to get to her,” added

Dennet Bermas from Tustin, California was killed after a large tree, caused by strong winds, fell on her vehicle on Monday, October 15.

Photo from Facebook.com

McCabe. “And then I was like, ‘Ma’am? Can you hear me?’ And I shook her arm, there was no movement. I checked her pulse in her wrist, there was nothing.

I check her pulse in her throat, and there was nothing.”

The fatal accident came as Santa Ana winds brought heavy gusts throughout Southern California that lasted Monday through Tuesday, reaching nearly 60 mph in some areas. Meteorologists expected the winds to be among the strongest in years. (By Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)

• Losses and casualties U.S. casualties – 3,000 U.S. losses: 1 light carrier, 1 fleet carrier, 2 escort carriers, 3 light carriers, 2 destroyers, 3 battleships, 1 destroyer escort sunk, 10 cruisers, 200+ planes.

Japanese casualties – 12,500 Japanese losses: 1 fleet carrier, 3 light carriers, 3 battleships, 10 cruisers, 11 destroyers sunk, 300 planes. (Info from Wikipedia)

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WBA welterweight champion Sen. Manny Pacquiao has accepted an invitation to speak before the Oxford Union, the university’s prestigious debating society, in Oxford, a city in southeast England 51 miles from London, on November 5 and the event will precede a likely U.S. press tour to announce his fight against Adrien Broner.

A source in Pacquiao’s camp said negotiations and contracts are being finalized to lock in the Broner fight, tentatively in Las Vegas on Jan. 19 but even as it’s 90 percent sure, there is no absolute certainty at the moment. Pacquiao is expected to leave for the UK on Nov. 3, speak in Oxford then return to Manila before embarking on the press tour.

“If the fight is on Jan. 19, Sen. Manny will be right on schedule,” said the source. “He’s staying in shape, playing basketball and running. Sen. Manny will be fine entering camp. After he speaks in Oxford, he’ll do the press tour then open camp. Training period will be a little over two months.”

Oxford Union secretary Tom Brown forwarded the invitation from society president Stephen Horvath to Pacquiao who will join the ranks of several distinguished speakers in the past. Oxford Union was established in 1823 and is the third oldest student union in the UK. Oxford is known as the oldest university in the Englishspeaking world. Previous speakers included Winston Churchill, Robert Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, Mother

Sen. Manny Pacquiao

Philstar.com photo

Teresa, Benazir Bhutto, Margaret Thatcher, Henry Kissinger, Madeleine Albright, John McCain, Yasser Arafat and Albert Einstein.

From show business, among the past speakers were Johnny Depp, Morgan Freeman, Clint Eastwood, Orson Welles, Elton John, Michael Jackson and Warren Beatty. From sports, the roster listed Roger Bannister, Diego Maradona, Boris Becker, George Foreman, David Haye, Vitali Klitschko and Chris Eubank.

Horvath said Pacquiao’s presence will continue the “fine tradition” of the society hosting world leaders in various fields. “As the first and only eight-division world champion and the winner of 11 world titles, your legacy as a world champion professional boxer is unmatched,” said Horvath. “Your strategic brilliance and your remarkable speed make you a truly legendary fighter. We would be delighted to hear more about how you stood above the characteristic trash-talking of big fights to stay focused on winning.

You have applied this determination and endurance to your politi-

cal career as well, overcoming an initial setback in your first election to become a widely-popular and respected senator.

“At a time where there is such international interest in the politics of the Philippines, our members would be intrigued to hear more about your views on President Duterte and the war on drugs. On top of your success in politics and boxing, it is impressive that you are so involved in basketball as a player, owner and coach. We would be truly honored to host you and learn from your immensely rich life.”

Horvath said Pacquiao’s appearance will be filmed for the union’s YouTube channel which has received over 60 million views since its recent relaunch.

Pacquiao was asked to choose a date in the school’s autumn term from Oct. 8 to Dec. 1 to speak before the society.

Brown said “it would be an honor to host Sen. Pacquiao and hear him discuss his career, both about his epic boxing journey and his career in Filipino politics, something which many of our members are watching closely.”

He called Pacquiao’s coming visit “a fantastic highlight of our termly program.”

It won’t be Pacquiao’s first visit to the UK. In 2009, he did a press tour to promote his fight against English hero Ricky Hatton who was knocked out in two rounds in Las Vegas. In 2015, he was invited by Prince Harry to visit London for dinner and a tour of Buckingham Palace. Pacquiao presented Prince Harry with a pair of autographed Cleto Reyes boxing gloves. n

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october 26-november 1, 2018 • neW YorK AnD neW JerSeY ASIAn JoUrnAL

Fil-Am gets grant to document stories of Filipino nurses in the US A FILIPINO-American graduate student in nursing at the University of Virginia won a Virginia Humanities grant for an oral history project on Filipino nurses in the United States.

Ren Capucao, the son of a nurse from the Philippines, received a grant of $6,500 to videotape interviews with nurses from the early batches of immigrant health professionals and mount a show at the Philippine Cultural Center

in Virginia Beach next summer.

“Filipino Americans are the largest internationally educated group of nurses in the United States. That trend traces back to the early 20th century when this country took control of the Philippines, taught residents English, and began training women in the newly created field of nursing,” Capucao told Virginia public radio WVTF. In the United States “they

Facebook purges 95 pages...

PAGE A1 farms off Facebook,” Facebook said as reported by The Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Although Facebook did not deliberately named all the pages and accounts that were taken down, it did include other ProDuterte pages as examples.

Among those were Duterte Media, Duterte sa Pagbabago BUKAS, DDS, Duterte Phenomenon and DU30 Trending News.

Some of the pages with similar links did not directly refer or relate to the president. Among those were Hot Babes, News Media Trends, Bossing Vic, Pilipinas Daily News, Like and Win, Manang Imee and Karlo ang Probinsyano.

One of the pages that was closed down by the said social networking site even had 4.8 million followers.

“We don’t want this kind of behavior on Facebook — and we’re investing heavily in both people and technology to keep bad content off our services,” Facebook said.

Facebook said it used reports from the social media community and machine learning and artificial intelligence “to detect bad behavior and take action more quickly.”

“We’re monitoring for a range of abuses on Facebook, including spam behavior, and will remove any account or page that breaks our rules,” the Mark Zuckerberg-led company said.

‘More avenues’ aside from Facebook - Palace Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo denied the claims that the pages that were taken down reflect those that support the current administration.

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could earn more in a day than they’d make in a month back home,” he added.

“After the Second World War some of their brothers joined the U.S. Navy as stewards and mess hall attendants. Many ended up in Norfolk, making weekend trips to find brides in East Coast hospitals,” taking two Greyhound buses to Philadelphia where there were many Filipino nurses they could court and start a family with. (Inquirer.net) n

“Not necessarily,” Panelo said as he denied the allegations that the government sponsors bloggers and so-called “trolls” in order to spread false news on the popular social media platform and attack critics and those who do not favor Duterte.

Instead, the presidential spokesperson expressed his respect with regards to the decision of Facebook to shut down the pages and accounts they deemed inappropriate.

“Facebook must have its rules and regulations. If they are implementing that, then that’s their own rule,” Panelo said.

“Now, if the concern is, there will be no more avenues, there are so many avenues. We have Twitter, Instagram and many others where the advocates can express themselves in support of this administration,” he added. n

FRIENDLY VISIT. President Rodrigo Duterte checks the condition of the wounded soldiers he visited at the Universidad de Sta. Isabel-Health Services Department in Naga City on Tuesday, October 23.

Malacañang photo by Alfred Frias

CDC warns parents of a polio-like disease that’s spreading among children

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

A POLIO-LIKE “mystery” disease has been rapidly spreading across the country, with most cases affecting children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said this week.

Although rare, acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a serious condition that affects the nervous

system and causes the body’s muscles and reflexes, especially the legs and arms, to weaken. It also causes sudden paralysis in patients, especially in children.

Of the 127 patients who reported an AFM case in 2018, 62 AFM cases have been confirmed in 22 states.

The average age of confirmed AFM patients over the past five years is 4 years old, and of the confirmed cases, 90 percent are children, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, Director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said in a press briefing on Tuesday, Oct. 16.

“There is a lot we don’t know about AFM,” Messonnier told reporters. “The reason why we don’t know about AFM — and I am frustrated that despite all of our efforts we haven’t been able to identify the cause of this mystery illness — we continue to investigate to better understand the clinical picture of AFM cases, risk factors and possible causes of the increase in cases.”

Symptoms of AFM include drooping of the face and eyelids, difficulty with eye movement and swallowing and slurred speech.

In more severe cases, patients might have difficulty breathing and may require a ventilator for muscle weakness.

Messionner said that AFM outbreaks tend to occur in the late summer and fall in a phenomenon she called “seasonal clustering,” and, so far, has only been detected in the United States. Since the outbreak has impacted many states, there is no evidence that the disease is concentrated on specific regions of the U.S., also known as geographic clustering.

Messonnier added that that although researchers have tested the disease extensively

in laboratories, they have not determined the exact pathogen or immune response caused the weakness in arms and legs and paralysis in most patients.

There is one report of a child dying of AFM last year.

Since 2014, the rate of AFM diagnosis is less than one in a million. Medical and public health professionals are currently looking into whether environmental agents could be a factor in AFM, but confirmed that poliovirus is not the cause of AFM; none of the patients’ stool specimens tested positive for poliovirus.

“We know this can be frightening for parents,” Messionnier said. “This is a mystery so far and we haven’t solved it yet, so we have to be thinking broadly.”

While there is no specific treatment for AFM, neurologists might recommend treatments and interventions — such as physical or occupational therapy — on a “case-by-case basis,” according to the CDC. Doctors may perform a series of tests, including a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the brain and spinal cord. Messionnier recommends seeking medical right away if a patient is exhibiting AFM symptoms.

“We want to encourage parents to seek medical care right away if you or your child develops symptoms of AFM, such as sudden weakness and loss of muscle tone in your arms or legs,” Messionnier said. “As we work to better understand what is causing AFM, parents can help protect their children from serious diseases by following prevention steps like washing our hands, staying up to date on recommended vaccines and using insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.” n

ASEAN, US to hold joint maritime drill in 2019 SOUTHEAST Asian nations and the United States will be holding joint maritime drill in 2019 as a way of enhancing their relationship.

In a joint declaration, defense ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) said they welcome the exercise with the U.S., as well as an ongoing joint drill with China in Zhanjiang. “[We] welcome the conduct of the Asean-China Maritime Exercise in 2018, and intention to conduct the Asean-United States Maritime Exercise in 2019, which will enhance friendship and confidence between Asean member states’ navies and the People’s Liberation Army Navy and the United States Navy,” the declaration read.

The ASEAN defense chiefs were all gathered in Singapore for the 12th Asean Defense Ministers’ Meeting and the ASEAN Plus Defense Ministers’ Meeting, which will be attended by defense heads from the U.S., Russia, China, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand and India.

In a separate statement, the Singapore Defense Ministry said Singapore’s Minister for Defense Ng Eng Hen and U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis held an informal meeting among Asean defense chiefs. The exercise, it added, was in conjunction with the U.S.’ Exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (Seacat), with Ng and Mattis also welcoming it as a “useful” confidence-building measure that would “build the capacity of and enhance cooperation between regional navies.”

The ASEAN defense ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to abide by laws and regulations that would observe the order and avoid incidents within the seas surrounding Southeast Asia.

In the joint declaration, the Asean defense ministers pointed out the commitment to “fully and effectively” implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in disputed waters of the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea).

They reiterated the importance of the freedom of navigation within the contested waters. “[The exercise of this freedom calls for] confidence-building measures and, through practical maritime cooperation, [promotion of] peace and stability,” the declaration said. “[We] reaffirm the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, safety and freedom of navigation in and overflight above the South China Sea,” it added, noting that the resolution should be in accordance with international laws, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The defense chiefs adopted guidelines for air military encounters and the operational annexes on observing existing aviation conventions and rules, among others.

The guidelines, drafts of which were provided to reporters, recognize the safety and security of air lanes as “important” for the growth and prosperity of countries in the ASEAN region. They stressed the “safe and smooth” conduct of encounters between the ASEAN militaries’ aircraft.

The defense ministers also welcomed positive developments in the Korean Peninsula such as the inter-Korean summits and the recent summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.| “[We also reiterate] our support for the complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula,” the declaration further read. (Dempsey Reyes/ManilaTimes.net)

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OctObER 26-NOvEmbER 1, 2018

A

Duterte bans ‘thank you’ streamers in Boracay Duterte confers Ryan Cayabyab, 6 others as National Artists

by Catherine

talavera ManilaTimes.net

MANILA — Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat has been instructed by President Rodrigo Duterte to tell stakeholders not to post streamers and billboards thanking him for the rehabilitation of Boracay, as he does not want to be glorified.

“I saw a post — someone sent it to me — which says, ‘Thank you PRDD for Saving Boracay’,” Puyat said, adding, “It was even nailed to a tree.”

When she reported this to the president, he got angry.

“He said that is corny. He doesn’t like it. He doesn’t want to be glorified,” she said.

Puyat was then tasked by Duterte to remind the Boracay Interagency Task Force (BIATF) to put a stop to this.

She added that she has informed heads of other concerned agencies such as Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu, Interior and Local Government officer-incharge Eduardo Año and Public Works Secretary Mark Villar of the President’s wishes.

Duterte had ordered earlier the six-month closure of Boracay from tourists after calling it a “cesspool.”

The island is set to be reopened on Friday, October 26. Puyat had earlier stressed that this is only the first phase of Boracay’s rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Wednesday, October 24, announced that it has facilitated the training of around 2,100 tourism frontline workers in anticipation of Boracay’s soft opening.

“Since the island’s temporary closure, we have been providing free training for our frontliners or the ones who will work face to face with our tourists,” Puyat said.

The DOT Regional Office VI, Boracay Field Office and Boracay Compliance and Monitoring Office conducted training sessions

BORACAY REHAB. Some structures in Boracay occupying the 12-meter government road rightof-way were demolished as part of government efforts to rehabilitate the island. Boracay is set to reopen on October 26.

PNA photo by Jay Rome Pablo

and seminars for porters, receptionists and hotel and resort front office staff from May up to this month.

“Frontliners, including boatmen from Caticlan, Tabo, Cagban and Tambisan Ports; jetty port checkers; ticket collectors; land transport drivers; tour guides and travel and tour operators are undergoing training to become ambassadors of the island,” the DOT said.

Also included in the training are hotel and restaurant waiters and food servers, massage and spa therapists, manicurists, vendors, souvenir gift shops salespersons and water sports activities frontliners.

To ensure the safety and security of tourists in Boracay, the DOT said it is set to conduct two batches of the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection Awareness Training for over 100 Philippine National Police personnel.

“While Boracay is still a work in progress, we are optimistic that these frontliners will help us in showcasing the ‘Better Boracay’ we are working toward,” Puyat said.

Four to five batches of seminars on the Filipino brand of service handled by the DOT’s Office of Industry Manpower Develop-

ment for frontliners and stakeholders are also being planned.

Regional director Helen Catalbas said the training sessions and seminars will continue even after the soft opening of the island.

For November, training courses in community local guiding for Mabuhay hosts are being rolled out.

Sustainable tourism best practices, including promotion of eco-friendly facilities, transportation and commodities; energy and waste management; and water and biodiversity conservation are also part of the training courses.

“We encourage everyone who sets foot in Boracay to be the best and most responsible tourist that you can be. Practice sustainable tourism and respect the island, and you’ll just keep it more fun for the generations to come,” Puyat said.

Meanwhile, the BIATF has created an oath for a Better Boracay, which calls on tourists visiting the island to act more responsibly, according to Puyat.

“I hereby solemnly swear, as a visitor of Boracay island, that I will, to the best of my ability, help ensure its preservation and sustainable development, and follow/ observe environmental laws and regulations,” the oath reads. n

68 candidates face disqualification cases Moreno, who is seeking the top post in the country’s capital, filed a disqualification case against MANILA — At the end of the another mayoralty candidate — filing of certificates of candidacy Onofre Estrada Abad. on Oct. 17, the Commission on Re-electionist Marikina MayElections (Comelec) Clerk of the or Marcelino Teodoro also filed Commission received a total of disqualification cases against ri68 petitions for disqualification. vals Marjoy Villoso and Lorderito Former senator Mar Roxas Nebres. leads the pack of petitioners, as Another re-electionist, Caloohe has asked the Comelec to dis- can Mayor Oscar Malapitan, qualify Katipunan ng Demokra- sought the disqualification of tikong Pilipino senatorial bet Je- opponents Rufino Bayon-on, sus Roxas.

Maximo Tonelino, Edgardo SeSen. Loren Legarda, on the villa, Ronnie Malunes and Emil other hand, is facing two disqual- Trinidad. ification cases filed by former Bacoor Mayor Lani MercadoAntique governor Exequiel Javier Revilla filed separate disqualifiand a certain Robin Rubinor. cation cases against mayoralty Legarda, who is serving her last aspirants Tranquilino Estrada term in the Senate, aims to repre- and Emelita Villar. sent the lone district of Antique.

Cebu Third District Rep. GwenFormer Manila vice mayor Isko dolyn Garcia, who is running for

by Mayen JayMalin Philstar.com

governor, faces two disqualification cases filed by Edgar Gica and Norma Pozon.

Other prominent candidates who have filed disqualification cases against their rivals are Quezon City vice mayoralty bet Gian Carlo Sotto, Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña and Isabela Rep. Antonio Albano.

Meanwhile, Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon on Wednesday, October 24, reiterated that the poll body is no longer accepting Certificates of Nomination and Acceptance (CONAs).

Guanzon explained that party-list groups that were unable to submit their CONAs on time would be considered as independent candidates. “(They) were told of the deadline way in advance,” Guanzon pointed out. n

Too early to recommend martial law extension in Mindanao — CHR by

Gaea Katreena CabiCo Philstar.com

MANILA — It is still premature to recommend the extension of martial law in Mindanao, the Commission on Human Rights said on Thursday, October 25 In a statement, CHR spokesperson Jacqueline De Guia said a close assessment of the effectiveness of martial law and a clear response to alleged human rights violations are needed.

“There is a need to be cautious of compounding justifications for its extension, considering that a state of national emergency on account of lawless violence was also declared in Mindanao prior to the martial law declaration,” De Guia

said.

The mouthpiece of CHR added the commission trusts the police and military forces in addressing lawlessness and threats of violence in the southern Philippines without martial law.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Carlito Galvez on Wednesday said that while it is sensible to extend the military rule in Mindanao given the upcoming election and expected plebiscite in the area, he said that it is still too early to call for martial law extension.

For his part, Philippine National Police chief Dir. Gen. Oscar Albayalde said it will back the extension of martial law in Mindanao if the government is inclined to extend it.

President Rodrigo Duterte

placed the whole of Mindanao under martial law on May 23, 2017, after terrorists linked with the Islamic State laid siege to Marawi City.

The Congress twice voted to approve the extension of martial law, which is expected to last until December 31, 2018.

Human rights group Karapatan had documented at least 49 cases of extrajudicial killings in Mindanao since the declaration of martial law.

It added there were 22 cases of torture, 116 victims of frustrated extrajudicial killings, 89 victims of illegal arrest and detention and 336,124 victims of indiscriminate gunfire and aerial bombings. At least 404,654 individuals have also reportedly been displaced largely because of these bombings. n

JPE shrugs off move to bring him back to jail FORMER senator Juan Ponce Enrile on Wednesday, October 24, shrugged off moves to bring him back to jail.

“I leave it to the good judgment of the Ombudsman and the Supreme Court. They (petitioners) have not done so much for the progress of the province, but just talk and talk,” Enrile, who is seeking a Senate seat in next year’s elections, said in a forum in Quezon City.

He was referring to Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba and former Buguey mayor Ignacio Taruc who filed a petition before the Office of the Ombudsman on Monday, October 22.

Mamba and Ignacio said Enrile should be sent back to jail

because he is not fit to launch a nationwide campaign. They said Enrile, who is facing plunder charges in connection with the alleged misuse of his Priority Development Assistance Fund or “pork barrel,” was granted bail because of his old age and deteriorating health.

The former Senate president said his health deteriorated when he was detained at Camp Crame.

“They hate me. They do not say anything good about me. The [Mamba] family is an ingrate. I recommended the appointment of Mamba as mayor,” Enrile said.

If he wins, Enrile said he would support the shift to federal form of government.

Former senator Juan Ponce Enrile ManilaTimes.net photo

“I read the proposed constitution that will replace the 1987 Constitution. I find some loopholes and I want to contribute on how to make it better,” he told reporters. (ManilaTimes.net)

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday, October 24, handed National Artist awards to seven individuals led by popular composer and musical director Ryan “Mr. C” Cayabyab.

Duterte conferred the Order of National Artist (ONA) upon recommendation by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CPP).

ONA is the highest national recognition given to Filipinos who made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts.

Cayabyab received the title of National Artist for music, recognizing his works ranging from commissioned theater musicals, choral pieces and orchestral pieces to commercial recordings of popular music.

Other ONA awardees include: Lauro “Larry” Alcala for visual arts, Francisco Mañosa (Architecture and Allied Arts), Ramon Muzones and Resil B. Mojares (Literature), Amelia Lapeña Bonifacio (Theater) and Eric de Guia a.k.a. Kidlat Tahimik (Film and Broadcast Arts).

In his speech, Duterte called on the awardees to share their skills and knowledge to the younger generation amid the fast-paced, highly technological and modern world.

“I urge our awardees to never hesitate to pass down their knowledge and skills to the younger generation because it is only by educating and training the youth that the legacy and work of our artists can live on,” Duterte said.

“To this year’s awardees, I laud you for the passion and dedication to your chosen craft. Your outstanding work does not only inspire self-determination, but likewise instills patriotism and brings prestige to our beloved country,” he added.

Duterte also gave Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awards to Ambalang Ausalin, Estelita Bantilan and Yabing Masalon-Dulo; and 2018 Philippine Heritage awards to winners in four categories.

These are Adaptive Reuse award won by Rizal Park Hotel; Heritage Education and Interpretation: local government unit (LGU) of San

Nicolas, Ilocos Norte; Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage Award (LGU of Magalang Pampanga); and, Heritage Program Support Awardee (LGU of Angeles City).

The GAMABA has been insti-

tuted as a national tribute to the creative and technical genius of the Filipino traditional artist.

On the other hand, the Philippine Heritage awards is an annual conservation recognition program PAGE A7

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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2018 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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FEATURES

OPINION

Successful rehabilitation

IN polluted, overcrowded Metro Manila, good news comes rarely on the environmental front. Last week saw one of those rare moments, as the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission became the first recipient of the Asia River Prize Award conferred by the International River Foundation.

The PRRC bested the Yangtze River rehabilitation effort in China.

The honor, conferred during the 21st International River Symposium in Sydney, Australia, considered the scale of the problem and recognized the response of the PRRC. Fidel Ramos, whose wife Ming was among the ardent movers of the river cleanup during his presidency, may still not want to swim in the Pasig as he says he used to do in his youth. But those who haven’t taken a close look at the river for some time should try taking the ferry today. They may be pleasantly surprised. Floating solid waste has become a rare sight and water lily is not allowed to proliferate.

The water does not stink like a cesspool, and children fish along the banks in certain areas.

It wasn’t just the water cleanup that was recognized. The awards body noted that the PRRC, from 1999 until last year, resettled in decent homes 18,719 families living along the banks of the 27-ki-

lometer river. The PRRC dismantled 376 private structures encroaching on the river, established nearly 37,500 meters of environmental preservation areas and developed 17 of 47 identified Pasig tributaries.

The challenge for the country is sustaining the rehabilitation effort and further improving the state of the river. National hero Jose Rizal wrote about fishing and picnics along the Pasig. Other countries have shown that rivers can be restored if not to a pristine state, then at least to a much cleaner one.

Another challenge is to apply the principles behind the successful rehabilitation effort to other bodies of water in Metro Manila and in other densely populated and polluted urban centers across the country. This is a success story that must be replicated. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Who you will vote for is a reflection of your values — and your children are watching The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS IT’S LESS than two weeks before the consequential midterm elections and already, the fiery and toxic battle for your votes has already been revealing the true color of the candidates, the politicians they choose to associate with, and the party they represent.

They are who they are, but the question is who will you vote for? Your answer may very well reveal who you are, what you are, what values you hold dear, what principles you stand for. As this transpires, your children are watching.

Will you vote for a politician who just tells you what you want to hear, entertains you, arouses your emotions, gets you fired up, gives you empty promises, knowingly fabricates stories, manipulates you, and lies to you — just to win. Win. Win. Win. And money.

All without regard for the truth, without respect to your sensibility, decency and intelligence, and without consideration of the greater good.

WILL YOU VOTE for a politician who used to trade personal insults with a former rival in politics — calling them names, convincing the American people

why that candidate is BAD for America — only to kiss each other’s behinds because of political expediency to win, win, win. Just like how Trump labeled Ted Cruz “Lyin’ Ted” during their battle for the Republican nomination in 2016, insulted the latter’s wife, defamed his family, and suggested his father was a co-conspirator in the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy.

Cruz fought back and called Trump a “sniveling coward” a “pathological liar.” That was then, now they need each other.

Trump needed Cruz to defeat the popular Democrat Beto O’Rouke so the Republicans could continue to have control of the Senate, and so he would now campaign for Cruz, labeling him as “beautiful Ted”. Cruz, of course, needed Trump’s support and endorsement in Texas to win, and so he now sings only love songs for the president. Politics at its worst.

WILL YOU VOTE for a politician who capitalizes on your baser emotions like FEAR, to cause you to hate and be afraid of other people? Just like how President Donald Trump would scare you about the thousands of people from Central America — men, women, children who are fleeing violence, hunger, pain; fathers, mothers, grandparents who only want to give their children and grandchildren a better and safer life just like what you did when you decided to immigrate to the

United States?

They walked thousands of miles from their country to do a legal recourse. That is, to go to the border and apply for asylum.

U.S. laws allow this, and each asylum seeker would have to be screened and evaluated, and then their application will either be accepted or denied. But they had to at least try to save their family.

But what did Trump do? He demonized them and called them criminals, violent gang members, drug peddlers who are coming to destroy America. He even added another layer to the fabricated story, that these asylum seekers are NOT just people from Central America. Trump said there are “unknown” people from the Middle East — aka Muslim or terrorists in his language — who will do us harm, just as he had labeled Mexicans and Muslims even before he became president. When asked by reporters if he has proof, he flatly said “No proof.”

Sadly, this is not just happening now. It has been part of plan’s goal “to make America great again” -- vilifying and discriminating against immigrants, especially people of color; demonizing all of the Islam faith, limiting not only illegal immigration but also legal migration — when this great nation is built and enriched by immigrants.

WILL YOU VOTE for a politician who cares more for money than the truth, life of a human being and justice? Like Presi-

Why I am a Republican and why Filipinos should vote for Republicans

Commentary

EMMANUEL SAMONTE TIPON, ESQ. REPUBLICANS have treated Filipinos better than the Democrats. After the Spanish American War, President William McKinley, a Republican, decided to take the Philippines instead of giving them back to Spain or to a third nation like China or Japan. If the Democrats who opposed McKinley had prevailed, Filipinos would now be eating with chopsticks. Susmariosep.

Democrats double crossed Filipinos. When World War II broke out, Democratic President Franklin D. Roosevelt called on Filipinos to join the war, promising them American citizenship and full veterans benefits. But after the war, a Democrat-controlled Congress broke the promise, leaving more than 200,000 Filipino soldiers who survived with an empty bag.

Que lastima. The Rescission Act of 1946 signed by President Harry

Truman, a Democrat, provided that the service of Filipinos in the U.S. military should not be considered to have been in active military service for the purpose of any law conferring rights, privileges, and benefits by reason of such service.

Despreciable.

It was a Republican-controlled Congress that granted U.S. citizenship to Filipino WW II veterans. I drafted the bill for my friend Republican Congressman Thomas J. Campbell of Palo Alto, California, who sponsored it. Muchos gracias.

President Ronald Reagan, a compassionate Republican, whom I met while campaigning in California, granted amnesty to more than three million illegal aliens.

The Obama administration went to the Supreme Court to prevent Filipino immigrant children who turn 21 while their visa petition is pending from using the priority date of their parents. The Court of Appeals had sided with the children. Thus, their parents would have to file new petitions for them with a new priority date.

Republican values are the same as Filipino values Republicans favor life, liberty,

and the pursuit of happiness.

Many Democrats support assisted suicide and the perpetuation of violent and filthy-mouthed confrontation. Republicans are religious, hardworking, self-reliant, and thrifty. Many Democrats do not believe in the Almighty and rely on welfare benefits at the expense of honest taxpayers.

Republicans are conservative and want fewer taxes. Democrats are liberals and like to tax and squander. Republicans hate illegal drugs and dislike abortion. Many Democrats love illegal drugs and like abortion. Republicans want a strong military to protect America. Many Democrats do not give a damn.

“If Democrats had any brains, they’d be Republicans,” writes Ann Coulter.

I say, “If Filipinos had any brains, they’d be Republicans.” ***

Emmanuel Samonte Tipon, Esq. is a Yale and University of the Philippines graduate and practices law in Hawaii specializing in immigration and criminal defense. He is the Founder and Chairman of Legal Immigrants for Trump (LIFE) whose motto is “We respect the good laws.” He can be contacted at filamlaw@ yahoo.com.

were criticizing former President Barack Obama for “massive spending,” which was intended by the previous administration to stimulate an economy struggling to recover from the deepest recession.

Trump’s spending, on the other hand, was to give welfare to the richest of the rich, in permanent tax breaks, when this approach was what drove the U.S. into the deepest recession since the Great Depression.

What is worse — the Republicans are now blaming the deficit to “welfare programs” like Social Security and Medicare — social benefits that we all already paid for deducted from our paycheck, as an investment toward our retirement and healthcare needs.

These politicians are proposing to cut funding for social services and would want to touch our retirement money in Social Security and Medicare, but not their own lifetime entitlement.

WOULD YOU VOTE for politicians who enable, condone, support these political tactics?

Do these politicians reflect your own values, principles and aspirations? If so, how would you explain your decision to your children and grandchildren? ***

dent Donald Trump who again peddles a new conspiracy theory that terrorists infiltrated the botched interrogation of Jamal Khashoggi, a brave Saudi national who was a legal U.S. resident who wrote for the Washington Post.

The Turkish government’s investigation has proven that Khashoggi was brutally murdered by Saudi officials who are close to the Crown Prince, reportedly because of his writings that call for freedom of the press and freedom for the people of Saudi Arabia.

While Trump awaits the results of the investigation of the murder of Khashoggi by the Saudi government, who were named by the Turks as the suspect in the killing, Trump’s administration keeps on stressing the strong alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia, in the fight against Iran. This, despite the fact that a big majority of the 9/11 terrorists who attacked America in 2001 were Saudi nationals.

“With all that being said though, we have $450 billion, $110 billion of which is a military order, but this is equipment and various things ordered from Saudi Arabia, $450 billion,” Trump said in defense of Saudi Arabia. “I think it’s over a million jobs. That’s not helpful for us to cancel an order like that. That hurts us far more than it hurts them.”

But according to the reporting

of Politifact, “The $110 billion in arms sales to the Saudis would be eye-popping enough, but this was the first time we heard the $450 billion total that included everything else. Nor has Trump said that 1 million jobs are on the line.”

Or could there be stronger ties that bind Trump’s business empire and his son-in-law Jared Kushner with the Saudis?

WILL YOU VOTE for a politician who, on the eve of the midterm elections, fearful of losing control of the House, would say he will unveil a resolution pledging congressional action sometime after elections on a 10 percent middle-class tax cut, claiming his administration has been working with Rep. Brady on the plan “very hard for a pretty long period of time.” This statement by President Trump took his own White House staff and the Republicans in Congress by surprise, not knowing what Trump was talking about.

The problem with this “Hail Mary” attempt that looks like a desperate attempt to “buy” votes for his cohorts in Congress was that Trump’s earlier permanent tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and corporations had already caused the U.S. deficit to balloon to $779 billion in the fiscal year 2018, up 17 percent from last year, according to final data released by the Treasury Department.

That’s the biggest spike since 2012 when the Republicans

Commentary

Immigrants built this country

GIL CISNEROS FOR centuries, the United States of America has been a shining beacon of freedom and hope for millions of people around the world. Immigrants have come to this country in search of the American dream, and in return they have built the America that we live in today.

When the Pilgrims famously settled in Massachusetts in the 1600s, they came to practice their religion freely and start a new life. When the potato famine struck Ireland in the 1840s, thousands came and took low-wage jobs to feed their families. After the Vietnam War in 1975, many came to escape violence and starvation. In all of those cases, immigrants traveled to America knowing there was a good chance they could perish along the way amidst dangerous conditions. Still, they persisted.

Millions have come to America, each with their own reasons and their own story to tell. In America, they have worked hard to improve their own lives. In the process, they have bettered the

lives of all those around them.

Immigrants often take the most difficult and laborious jobs, toiling for long hours and making little money. They make an immeasurable impact on our country, contributing to our economy and paying taxes.

One needs to look no further than Southern California to realize the value of immigrants. Here, our community thrives because of our diversity. We are a melting pot of cultures, strengthened by the different experiences that each of us brings. There are few places where one can drive for a few miles and see the world.

Southern California is one of those few.

Numerous studies also show that immigrants are far less likely to commit violent crimes. They’re not here to make trouble. They’re here because they care about this country and what it stands for.

Every year, thousands of immigrants join the U.S. military and risk their lives to defend this country. Since 9/11, nearly 300 immigrants have died in the line of the duty. Many of them were still waiting to become U.S. citizens, but they all made the ultimate sacrifice for this country and the U.S. Constitution.

Today, immigrants make up

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

17 percent of the U.S. workforce. In Southern California, they are even more important.

California’s 39th Congressional District lies at the intersections of Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino Counties. Here, nearly a third of the district was born outside the United States, not to mention the thousands who are second or third generation immigrants whose parents and grandparents came to this country not long ago.

The immigrants of today are not so different from those first came to America. They, like many before them, are coming to the United States to build a better life for them and their children. They are seeking the American dream, a promise of opportunity that has uplifted millions of people who now call this land home. That is still the promise of America today, but only if we work to keep it that way.

On November 6, voters will cast an important ballot that will influence whether America continues to be a welcoming place for all. The stakes have never been higher.

In Congress, I pledge to always advocate on behalf of our immigrant families and to fix our PAGE A7

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

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL •

OctObER 26-NOvEmbER 1, 2018

A

Napoleses seek court nod for US trip JO Christine and James Christopher Napoles, children of pork barrel scam prime suspect, have asked the Sandiganbayan’s Third Division to let them travel to the United States on November 15 to face charges filed in courts there.

A U.S. grand jury indicted LimNapoles; her children Jo Christine, James Christopher and Jeane; Reynald Luy Lim; and Ana Marie Lim on Tuesday, October 23, for alleged money laundering.

A motion filed before the Sandiganbayan stated that Jo Christine and James Christopher “most respectfully ask that they be allowed to travel to the United States of America on November 15, 2018 and to stay in the United States of America while they are defending the civil and criminal cases filed against them.”

The Napoles siblings said that similar to the case before the Sandiganbayan, they “are required to personally appear during arraignment, hearings on motions, and trial in the U.S.” or the rights and privileges available to them as accused would be waived.

The siblings assured the antigraft court that they would return to the Philippines not only to bolster their innocence, but also to perform their duties as accused in this case.”

Jo Christine and James Christopher are among the individuals facing charges of graft and of malversation through falsification before the Sandiganbayan’s Third Division — which is enforcing a hold departure order against the accused — over Malampaya funds in 2009 to 2010.

They are also among the individuals charged with graft along with former Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile in connection with the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel scam.

Lim-Napoles is detained at a Bureau of Jail Management and Penology facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City over plunder and graft charges in connection with the PDAF scam.

According to the motion, the undersigned law office received a letter dated Oct. 11, 2018 from Jo Christine and James Christopher Napoles’ U.S. lawyers.

“The reason we are contacting you is to seek your assistance in gaining permission from the prosecutors and/or courts in the Philippines for them both to travel to the United States to appear and defend the criminal indictment and also the civil forfeiture case. Specifically, we are seeking for you to obtain permission on their behalf to travel and reside in the United States while they are

defending the two cases,” lawyer Patrick Hall wrote.

“In order to defend the criminal case, both James and Jo Christine would be required to appear in the United States and be arraigned on the criminal indictment. That case would then be scheduled for motions and a trial date. Given the complexity of the case and the nature of the charges, we would anticipate that it would take a minimum of 12 months to defend the case at trial, during which time James Napoles and Jo Christine Napoles would most likely be either detained without bond or restricted not to travel outside of the United States. In other words, the United States courts would most likely not permit their return to the Philippines until the case was concluded,” he said in part.

Meanwhile, according to the letter, the civil forfeiture case is not set for trial until January 2020.

“Thus, at a minimum, we would be seeking permission for them both to travel to the United States until that trial is concluded. Nonetheless, we would like to defend the criminal case first and we are seeking your input on how best to obtain permission for them to come to the United States to defend the charges,” Hall said.

(ManilaTimes.net)

Study: PH a great place for expats to find love, raise kids; but not the best to live, work by ian

nicolas cigaral Philstar.com

THE Philippines is becoming a more popular expat destination in Southeast Asia, especially for those seeking a partner and finding a place to raise their children.

However, the Philippines is not the best country to live and work in, and the best-paid workers live elsewhere.

Based on results of HSBC’s 2018 Expat Explorer Survey, the Philippines was among the countries ranked at the “bottom,” sliding to the 28th spot from last year’s 17th place. Thirty-one economies qualified to the poll this year.

The survey — which polled 22,318 expats, including 300 residing in the Philippines, from 163 economies — said the Philippines’ tropical climate, emerging economy and its increasingly influential role in Asia and beyond make the nation “extremely” attractive to migrants.

64 percent of respondents found love in PH Broken down, 56 percent of expats said the Philippines has brought them closer to their partner, 64 percent of whom found their significant other here.

Fifty-six percent said raising children in the Philippines is less expensive compared to their home country, while 42 percent

believe the overall quality of life needs all make an expat’s money for their kids is better here than management more demanding,” HSBC said. n elsewhere.

Despite cultural differences, 69 percent of respondents said they are integrating well with the local people and feeling like they are “family” in the Philippines.

“Expats here also say that they have been welcomed by the Filipinos regardless of faith, race, gender or sexual orientation, which is not a surprise, given the Filipinos’ warmth and hospitality, and the vibrant and friendly local culture,” HSBC added.

Income Singapore is rated the best expat destination for the fourth year in a row, beating New Zealand, Germany, Canada and Bahrain.

But the highest expat salary is in Switzerland, where migrants earn an above global average salary of $202,900 per year. But in the overall survey, Switzerland ranked only eighth, amid higher cost of raising children and difficulty in making friends there.

In the Philippines, 56 percent of expats said they have more disposable income here and 20 percent qualified that they have less. The rest said they earn about the same as in their home country while 58 percent said they are able to save more here.

“Some may have more to save and invest but tax challenges, currency risk and different spending

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada talks to persons arrested for violating ordinances of the city government.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

Erap eyes reclamation ahead of 2019 polls

by Francis

Earl cuEto ManilaTimes.net

MANILA Mayor Joseph Estrada, who is facing a tough reelection campaign next year, is pushing through with his reclamation project at Manila Bay in a bid to increase property tax collections.

Estrada, in a statement, announced a memorandum of agreement between Manila and Pasay cities “to cooperate with each other and extend mutual assistance,” as well as advance their separate partnerships with private groups to reclaim huge swathes of the Manila Bay. The signing of the agreement was led by Estrada and Pasay City Mayor Antonino Calixto. Other

signatories were representatives of three groups with reclamation proposals in the Manila Bay area, namely Manila Goldcoast Development Corp. (MGDC), SM Prime Holdings Inc. and the Pasay Harbor City consortium.

The Manila and Pasay reclamation projects are: – MGDC’s 148-hectare joint venture with Manila, involving the southern parcel of the Manila-Cavite Coastal Road and Reclamation Project – North Sector, or the “Solar City Project”; – SM Prime Holdings Inc.’s 300-hectare and 60-hectare projects in joint venture with Pasay; and – Pasay Harbor City consortium’s 265-hectare reclamation project in joint venture with Pa-

Despite cultural differences, 69 percent of expats polled by HSBC said they are integrating well with the local people and feeling like they are “family” in the Philippines.

Philstar.com photo

Duterte confers Ryan Cayabyab...

PAGE A5 which aims to promote cultural preservation and conservation of Filipino cultural heritage.

Duterte underscored the need to preserve and protect the country’s cultural sites.

“In ways more than one, art has been a witness to this storied history of our nation. It gave rise to the revolutions and served as a voice to those who fought for democracy and emboldened the spirit of the Filipino during the turbulent times,” the President said.

“Indeed, art has gone as a general service and we recognize

this by supporting our local and traditional artist and spearheading initiatives to safeguard, preserve, and protect our cultural sites,” he added.

Duterte, together with Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, also conferred the Presidential Medal of Merit on Filipina painter Araceli Limcaco Dans.

“As we celebrate Filipino excellence in all forms, may your creativity and artistry continue to inspire our people to become positive in building a more progressive and vibrant Philippines,” Duterte said. (Jelly Musico/PNA)

Immigrants built this country PAGE A6 country’s broken immigration system. We are stronger when we work together to build a better future. I’ll fight to ensure we end the detention and separation of families, we keep our promise to DACA recipients, and I refuse to fund the administration’s senseless border wall.

I am proud of my MexicanAmerican heritage, and I come from a family of service. My father fought for our country in Vietnam, and I followed in his footsteps serving in the Navy for 10 years. I have seen firsthand the contributions that immigrants make to our armed forces and our society. The immigrants who have woven the fabric of America have made tre-

mendous sacrifices. I will defend the United States as a welcoming land of opportunity, so that future generations can find the same strength in America that we and our ancestors have. ***

Gil Cisneros is an independent leader running for Congress to ensure our children are provided with the same ladder of opportunity that the Navy provided him. Son of a cafeteria worker, Gil is not a career politician, he is a veteran, philanthropist, and education advocate, who pledges to stand up to the insurance and pharmaceutical industries to lower healthcare costs, protect education funding, and work to create good-paying local jobs. Gil refuses contributions from PACs because he believes the government should work for the people – not corporate special interests.

)ROORZ XV RQ

say, or the “Pasay Harbor City project.”

Estrada said Solar City Manila’s reclamation project would generate an estimated P50 billion in revenues and create 500,000 jobs once the Philippine Reclamation Authority issues a notice to proceed.

The Solar City Reclamation Project is supposed to start early next year. It will occupy 3.5 kilometers of Manila Bay’s shoreline.

“As a positive consequence, the [property tax] share of barangay (villages) will increase accordingly. In the first year, expected additional share will amount to P5 million, and P15million per barangay after five more years,” Estrada said. n

A

october 26-november 1, 2018 • neW YorK AnD neW JerSeY ASIAn JoUrnAL

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

OCTOBER 26, 2018

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 26 , 20 1 8

Gina Ortiz Jones could be the first Filipina in Congress

by MoMar

G. Visaya /AJPress

FOUR Filipino Americans have a chance to make history and be elected to the United States Congress in the upcoming midterm elections next month.

Jennifer Zimmerman, who immigrated to the United States 25 years ago, will face Republican Matt Gaetz for Florida’s District 1 seat.

Zimmerman — or Dr. Z as she is known in her community — was born in the Philippines to a father who was a prisoner of war during World War II and a mother who was not allowed by her father to attend school.

The eldest of six children, Zimmerman received a full academic scholarship to attend the University of the Philippines, where she majored in Zoology.

She obtained her medical degree at the University of the East before moving to the United States where she completed her residency training in Pediatrics at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New York. Zimmerman has been a resident of Florida since 1997.

TJ Cox, another congressional candidate, is up against a three term Republican for California’s 21st Congressional District, which covers a large part of San Joaquin Valley in Central California.

Cox’s mother Perla De Castro migrated from the Philippines, while his father, who is mixed Chinese and European, migrated from China.

Also running for a congressional seat in California is Cristina Osmena, a great granddaughter of Sergio Osmena, the second President of the Philippines. She and her family moved to California when she was only 6 years old. Her family opposed, then fled the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos, according to her website.

Osmena is running against a Democratic stalwart, Jackie Speier, whose political career spans nearly four decades. Speier has been representing California’s 14th Congressional District, which includes most of San Mateo County, since 2008.

Making History Gina Ortiz Jones will be up against incumbent, two-term Representative Will Hurd in Texas.

If she wins this tightlycontested battle, she will make history in the United States by becoming the first FilipinaAmerican to be elected to the US Congress and the first openly gay, first Iraq War veteran and first woman House representative from the 23rd District of Texas.

Gina Ortiz Jones with (from left) actress and martial artist Diana Lee Inosanto and restauarateur and White House appointee Billy Dec. AJPress Photos by Momar G. Visaya

Gina Ortiz Jones is running to become the first Iraq War veteran (who served under Don’t Ask Don’t Tell) and Filipina American to represent the 23rd Congressional District of Texas.

Gina with Jersey City Council President Rolando Lavarro, Aries dela Cruz, Manhattan Regional Representative for Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and Gil Quiniones, President and CEO of the New York Power Authority at a reception in New York City.

AJPress Photo by Momar G. Visaya

“This is an election that is going to be based on our values.

If you think your values align with a president who calls immigrants animals, somebody that is okay with separating families at the border and holding them like animals,” said Ortiz Jones as she delivered a short speech recently before members of the Filipino American community in New York.

Since winning the primaries, Ortiz Jones has been through an extremely busy schedule, raising funds and campaigning for votes.

“This is a district that Hillary won by three points and so that means we have to travel the district extensively and we will continue travelling this massive district to talk to as many voters as possible, explaining to them what is on the line, the real choice that is available to them in November and why I am best suited to represent them,” she explained.

The candidate also expressed to feeling a little pressure, specially knowing what’s on the line if she wins.

“I would be honored to be the first but it is important that I am not going to be the last because I am only here because of the opportunity my community, my country afforded for me. This is very much about protecting those opportunities for others that are just as talented, just as hungry and need a little bit of help,” Ortiz Jones said.

Ortiz Jones believes that it is districts like theirs, which is key to flipping the House.

The 23rd District runs from San Antonio to El Paso and about 538 miles across, roughly the distance from Manhattan to Raleigh in North Carolina.

Forty percent of the US border with Mexico is in this district. It is a majority minority district, something that this country will be in 2040.

On October 1, former President Barack Obama endorsed Ortiz Jones and other Texas Democrats.

“Our incredible array of

candidates up and down the ticket, all across the country, make up a movement of citizens who are younger, more diverse, more female than ever before,” Obama said in a news release. “They’re Americans who aren’t just running against something, but for something. They’re running to expand opportunity and restore the honor and compassion that should be the essence of public service.”

Why She’s Running Ortiz Jones’ story started 40 years ago when her mother, Victorina Ortiz came to the United States.

A graduate of the University of the Philippines Diliman, she became a domestic helper because that was the available opportunity for her then to chase her own American dream.

“Like so many people that you and I know, they humbled themselves and came here in that capacity. She would go on to raise my younger sister and I by herself and we were reminded every single day that our trajectory in life was in so small part to be born in this country,” she said.

This is why she went into public service while her younger sister is in the US Navy, a proud member of the “Filipino mafia” there.

Her current beliefs, she says, were shaped by how she was raised.

“Why do I think reduced lunch is important? Because I needed it at some point. Why do I think subsidized housing is important?

Because I needed it at one point. All of those were critical investments - not handouts, investments - that allowed me to earn a four-year Air Force/ROTC scholarship that took me to Boston University,” Ortiz Jones said.

She then went to the Air Force to serve as an intelligence officer and was deployed to Iraq in the time of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”.

She also served in the intelligence community for a decade advising on operations in Africa and Latin America.

Photos from ginaortizjones.com

Ortiz Jones recently wrapped up her career in the Executive Office of the President working on economic and national security issues.

“I’ve been honored to serve our country in and out of uniform in a number of different ways the frontline in Iraq, the frontline in Africa and the frontline of what I think to be the most important portfolio moving forward, how do we understand our economic and national security interests,” she said.

While working at the White House, she would sometimes pinch herself when she would walk into the Executive Office because she knows that not a lot

of kids would go from reduced lunch to the Executive Office of the President.

“I studied hard and worked hard but my country and my community invested in me. That is what this race is about,” she emphasized.

One of her earliest memories is quizzing her mom on her naturalization test and right to this day, she says she remembers Patrick Henry said ‘Give me liberty or give me death.’

“We are being tested as Americans. What does it mean for us? What kind of future do our children deserve? I am stepping up to serve again. I look forward to winning this race,” she said.

Janella learns from her bad experience, moves on Rodjun and Rayver By riCky lo Philstar.com

KEEPING distance, growing apart.

With those four words, Janella Salvador summed up her relationship with Elmo Magalona in an interview with Funfare, one month after that incident in which she sustained bruises in her arm and leg (photos shown during the interview).

“It was not an accident,” Janella finally broke her silence letting her mom, Jenine Desiderio, initially speak for her (mostly on social media), answering what “the other camp” (Janella’s words) was posting against her. “I decided to speak up now because I want to stop the lies,” added Janella with conviction.

That “incident” happened when Janella and Elmo got into an argument after attending a party hosted by Janella’s friend. Elmo reportedly had one drink too many and Janella admitted that she did drink, too… “Social drinking,” she qualified, recalling that she fought back by slapping Elmo because she felt “disrespected.”

“It was not the first time that he hurt me,” confessed Janella.

“The first time happened months earlier. He claimed that he didn’t remember what he did, maybe because he had a drink, and he

asked for forgiveness and I gave him a chance. I told him, ‘Next time, don’t bring yourself to the point that you will hurt someone.’

He promised naman that he wouldn’t do it again.”

Putting no label to their relationship, all Janella said was that they were “exclusively dating” and “going out,” although she dismissed rumors that “sleeping over” was involved. Janella has been living independently at a house that mom Jenine bought from Janella’s savings. Known as ElNella, the loveteam has done a TV show and a movie together but after that incident, they were

problem and he’s addressing it.”

In the next breath, she explained, “My purpose in speaking now is not to shame him or to put him down; I just want to correct the lies being spread against me and my mom, and to let the truth out. I thought long and hard before I decided to speak out. I gave (Elmo) the chance to speak up and own up to what he did but it seems that somebody is stopping him from doing it.”

During the interview, Janella said that she has stopped wearing the “friendship necklace” given to her by Elmo.

“For two years,” she continued, “I focused on Elmo and myself. This time, I am giving more attention to Photo from Instagram/@superjanella myself. He hurt me and I cannot, can never tolerate that.” told during a meeting with Star She said that she’s happy that Magic’s Mariolle Alberto that her relationship with her mom is from now on, they would have to improving. They used to bump work separately (after a project in November that was closed before heads…that is, if you believe Jenine’s soc-med postings to heart. that incident).

“We are fixing things,” assured Janella admitted that she has stopped seeing a psychiatrist who Janella. “We are talking. I may not agree with the extreme way she had told her that she’s “feeling expresses her feelings but I realized well,” but she decided to resume that her intentions are good. At the the session two weeks after that end of the day, I now know that my incident. Nothing “mental” about mom is there for me.” that, she clarified.

Asked pointblank if she still “I know that Elmo has also been seeing a psychiatrist,” added loves Elmo, Janella was quiet for Janella. “He’s seeking professional a while and said, “I did say na love ko siya. Hindi naman ganoon kabilis help. I support him on that. It’s mawawala ‘yon.” good that he recognized the

on growing up together in showbiz By anGel JaVier Philstar.com

Cruz

SHOWBIZ, similar to any other business, is a quest for the most bankable personality, showcasing his or her acting, singing, dancing or hosting talent. Many are lured into this world of limelight and aspire to be well-respected artists in show business, thereby keeping the competition stiff. However, having a family member in the same business has its advantages, as in the case of brothers Rayver and Rodjun Cruz.

Although youngest in a brood of three, Rayver first entered showbiz as a young talent. His love for dancing paved the way in forming an all-male dance group Anim-E. Years later, brother, Rodjun, joined the group. Dancing is just one of the many favorites both brothers love to do together.

Growing up, let us find out how this sibling bond developed.

During childhood, what memorable moments did you have among your brothers?

Rodjun: “As a kid, we would always spend the summer vacation and Christmas together, especially when our Papa was still

around. Since we are all boys in the family, we would always play basketball and even Counterstrike.

We are always together in everything that we do.”

Rayver: “We would always have special gatherings as a family.

My cousins would sleep over in our house and vice versa.”

Between the two of you, who was the naughtier one? Who was more behaved?

Rayver: “Si Rodjun talaga! (laughs)” Rodjun: “Dati tahimik ako, pero noong nag-GMA ako, naging makulay ang buhay (laughs).

When I’m with my loved ones, I would show my funny side and even crack jokes. Ako talaga yung makulit kasi masayahin ako.”

Rayver: “Rodjun is the life of the party.”

What do you both usually fight over or fight about?

Rayver: “Since we’re both guys, there are times when we have misunderstandings but not the serious ones. We talk and resolve it right away.”

Rodjun: “We just have small fights, pikunan lang. Pero wala talaga, mabait kasi siya. Rayver Continued on Page 6

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 26 , 20 1 8

I came to the US under a different name, is there hope for me?

Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel gurfinkel, eSQ

SHE TRIED TO COMPLY, BUT HER CASE WAS DENIED…A MOTHER’S DESPAIR AND AN ATTORNEY’S RESCUE ON AN ENCORE EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Rowena and Mike came to the US in 2010 to build a better life. Rowena was sponsored as a teacher. As she was filing her third extension for her H1-B visa in 2016, the shocking news hit her. She was denied! Then her adjustment (green card) application was denied because, according to the USCIS, she worked a mere 14 days without the necessary DHS authorization. Three lawyers tried handling her case, to no avail, and her family was urging her to “give up” and return to the Philippines. She finally decided to consult with “the attorney of last hope,” Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel, in a last-ditch effort to be able to provide a better life for her children. Watch how Atty. Gurfinkel was able to solve the problem in a record 43 days, turning a disastrous denial into green cards for the entire family, on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement)

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA (HERE’S an abbreviated version of a fascinating story from Greek mythology. This is a redux.)

Long ago in the island of Crete, there lived a man named Daedalus, who was famed for his skills as an inventor. He worked for King Minos. Foremost among his many achievements was building the labyrinth in which the king kept the Minotaur, a fearsome, legendary beast which was half-man and half-bull that fed on human flesh. It was said that anyone who went into the labyrinth never came out of it again because of its complex, undecipherable winding walls and corridors.

Daedalus was brilliant and this was a problem for the king.

Although Daedalus had been giving the king great and loyal service all his life, Minos was deeply insecure and feared that Daedalus who was wise,

Children Just Like You (1 of 2 parts)

“The deepest definition of youth is life as yet untouched by tragedy.”

—Alfred North Whitehead celebrated and ingenious would, one day challenge him to become king. As a preemptive move, Minos imprisoned Daedalus and his son, Icarus in a prison tower. The king underestimated Daedalus, for one dark night, father and son escaped from their prison tower.

They found out however that it was well nigh impossible to escape the island with the paranoid King Minos sending out an all points bulletin to his mindless minions. Minos’ soldiers carefully searched every boat that left the island.

Father and son took cover in a remote cave along the shore hidden from the watchful eyes of Minos’ soldiers while Daedalus figured out a way to escape.

Watching the seagulls for hours soaring and diving for food on the shore, Daedalus was struck with the idea of flight as an escape route. He caught one bird

and studied the structure and form of its wings and after careful thought, decided to copy how a wing is made. He instructed Icarus to catch seagulls and pluck their feathers. When there were enough feathers, he sewed them together and used melted wax to bind the feathers on a wooden framework. He created the contraption so skillfully that they looked like a giant replica of a bird’s wings. He customized two pairs of wings for himself and for his son, careful to take each of their individual body weights into consideration.

But having wings was one thing, knowing how to use those wings to fly was another.

So Daedalus strapped his wings and still taking his cue from the seagulls on how to soar, swoop, dive and glide, he proceeded to learn how to fly so that the wings felt like a seamless part Continued on Page 5

DEAR Atty. Gurfinkel: I came to the U.S. on a visitor’s visa under a different name. The passport and visa had my picture, but somebody else’s name. I still have that passport.

I recently married a U.S. citizen for love, and want to get a green card. Is there hope for me, since I entered the U.S. under a different name?

Very truly yours,

ES Dear ES: Yes, there could be hope for you, despite having entered the U.S. under a different name.

(Please note I said there is “hope”, but as an attorney, I cannot, and do not, “guarantee” success or approvals.)

In your case, you could be eligible to file for adjustment of status (be interviewed in the U.S. vs Manila) because you were “inspected,” meaning you presented yourself to an immigration officer who checked your visa or other papers, and admitted you to the U.S. (or allowed you to enter). Even though you were inspected under a different name, that

still constitutes “inspection.”

The fact that you saved that passport provides evidence of your inspection. This is critical to a person’s ability to file for adjustment in the U.S.: proving you were “inspected.”

Many people who entered the U.S. under a different name eventually wind up either losing or misplacing the passport they used to enter the U.S., or they mailed it back to the agency in the Philippines. If they don’t have proof of inspection, it could be considered that they entered the U.S. without inspection (or are “EWI”), and they would not be eligible to adjust status in the U.S., even through marriage to Continued on Page 5

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 26 , 20 1 8

PACCAL honors 21 outstanding Fil-Am highfliers and trailblazers On the PEP Front

People, Events, Places BoBBy T. yalong IT was, indeed, an indisputably far-fetched fete that ineradicably marked the elegant celebration of PACCAL’s 26th Founding Anniversary and Awards Night at the posh ballroom of the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Newark, New Jersey last Sunday, October 21, 2018.

PACCAL, (Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League, Inc.) in its effort to relentlessly endorse the truest essence of its mission and vision, never left a single stone unturned and conscientiously scrutinized every aspect of the awarding process and production progression to fully guarantee a well-conceptualized and perfectly implemented program…honoring twenty-one of the most distinguished personalities who are successful in their chosen fields.

Grandiosity and effervescence were already set at stake as in the past PACCAL events but last Sunday’s occasion proved to surpass them all with a myriad of world-class talents that more than added magnificence to the

EMPLOYMENT

Photo from Instagram/@jodistamaria

Jodi Sta. Maria: ‘I enjoy solitude’

by Cody Cepeda already lavish setting.

Consider these: to justify the recognitions they received, fastrising teen band TakeTheStage (who recently was tied down to

a contract by Universal Records, Philippines) performed with gusto two oldies-but-goodies-up beat numbers; most in-demand saxophone virtuoso and Doctor of Physical Therapy Kevin Obate enthusiastically showcased his vocal and sax aptitudes to the delight of the crowd; while sultry rock vocalist Michelle Pross (better known as Michelle Michelle) wowed the audience with her crystal-cracker vocal dexterity.

As if the first three vocal production numbers weren’t enough to entertain the fullcapacity hall during dinner time, the electrifying performance of musician-composer Lirazen Rose effortlessly raised the bar to an

EMPLOYMENT

unprecedented level only to be pushed farther beyond when WCOPA (World’s Championship of Performing Arts) 2018 Best Female Pop Vocalist of the World Jenn Cuneta gamely rendered a powerful number whilst merged somewhere midway by equally multi-awarded beauty and sensational singer Alyssa Jade Shoemaker… not to mention Alyssa’s breathtaking solo rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman.”

Former Las Vegas Lions Club President and philanthropist Josie Harrison, whose glistening image was inevitably eclipsed by her ace comedian son Jokoy’s popularity, bubbly graced the Continued on Page 6

Inquirer.net

NOT everyone can truly say they enjoy their own company, but for actress Jodi Sta. Maria, solitude and introspection are non-negotiables when it comes to her self-care routine.

Sta. Maria recently took to social media to share to her fans what she does during alone time. In her Instagram post on Wednesday, Oct. 24, Sta. Maria showed a picture she took of an empty movie theater.

“As part of my self-care routine, I watch a movie by my lonesome and take myself out on a dinner,” she said.

Sta. Maria further shared that solitude and being alone with her thoughts are things she

SERVICES

find enjoyable. “I love to watch and observe people. I do a lot of introspection.”

It seems, however, that she took alone time to the highest level when she revealed that the movie theater she went to at the time only had one customer: she.

“This is taken to a different level when the movie house received its only customer — ME,” Sta. Maria said in amusement. “Wow. I feel special.”

Sta. Maria didn’t reveal to her fans just what film she watched that rendered her all by herself in the vast void of the movie theater—ghosts notwithstanding, for believers of the supernatural. But one thing is for certain: She sure had a lot of room for headspace.

Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS LOSING weight on a diet that is high in fat is dangerous for overall health. The risk of coronary heart disease has been found to increase significantly among those individuals who stayed on a high protein red meat diet to lose weight. While these subjects became slimmer, their cholesterol levels were high, leading to a higher rate of heart attacks. The object of dieting is not only to maintain a normal weight but also to be healthier all around.

Nothing beats abstinence from red meat and eggs (eating only fish, vegetable, fruit, highfiber), combined with daily exercise and abstinence from tobacco as the best formula for maintaining good health. *** Persons getting a flu shot to prevent influenza may even experience an added benefit from it. Studies have shown that flu vaccination appears to be associated with a reduced risk of stroke, especially among those who are 60-75 years old. *** Forget all old worries and past problems, if you want your blood pressure not to shoot up.

It is a medical fact that recalling previous sad or morbid events, or emotional trauma, raises the blood pressure during the moment of recollection. If these spikes in blood pressure happen often, they could adversely affect the heart. All of us should let go of these painful experiences of the past and not dwell on them.

Anything not within our control should be left to God. Life ahead of us is so precious we ought to leave our miserable baggage behind and have a more positive outlook, at the same time protect our heart and health as a whole. *** If you love tuna, which is a good fish, it is better to eat canned light tuna because its mercury content is much lower than fresh or frozen tuna, especially large albacore tuna, which is higher in mercury content. Short-lived and younger tuna is used for canning. *** You do not really have to run or jog for health. Jogging is actually no longer encouraged because of the damages it causes on the spine, hip, knee, and ankle joints. Brisk walking can lower the incidence of heart disease by 18 percent, as effectively as any of those more vigorous exercises, minus the injuries to the various joints. *** Oil of oregano: an “antibiotic”? It seems so, to a

Medical pearls

certain extent, anyway. It has been found that oil of oregano, which is used in salad dressing and for cooking, reduces harmful food pathogens. This oil has been found to inhibit e.coli and listeria monocytogenes.

Hydrogen peroxide (H202), which splits into water (H20) and an extra “H’ ion, is good for washing (rinsing) food items, like fruits and vegetables, etc., and effective in inducing root formation when plant branch cuttings are soaked in it for about 30 seconds before planting them for propagation. Rooting hormone powder also speeds up rooting. *** Mustard is a popular condiment, used in a variety ways, especially with hotdogs.

The compound that imparts yellow color in mustard is curcumin, component of tumeric spice, and curcumin has been found to slow down the progression of cancer. *** Also a cancer inhibitor is raspberry because of its content, ellagic acid, a cancer-inhibitor.

All vegetables and berry fruits are great anti-oxidants. Also with oats, grains, nuts, and spices in general. *** Which cooking oil is the best for us? Here is a list of the most commonly found ones on the grocery shelves, including the calories (Cal), fat contents in grams (F), saturated fat in grams (SF), cholesterol (Ch), per tablespoonful: Canola: Cal-121, F-13.6, SF-1; coconut: Cal-118, F-13.6, SF-11.8; corn: Cal-121, F13.6, SF-1.7; olive: Cal-119, F-13.5, SF-1.8; peanut: Cal-119, F- 13.5, SF- 2.3; soybean: 121, F- 13.6, SF2.0; palm: Cal-121, F-13.6, SF-6.7.

All of these have zero cholesterol and sodium. Coconut has the highest saturated fat content. One coconut has about 1349 calories and 127.7 grams of fat, 113 saturated fats and 76 mg of sodium. Eating a lot of coconut oil or food items made of, or with, coconut, is not really healthy.

Our choice is, of course, virgin or extra-virgin olive oil, proven for centuries to be a healthy oil. *** While imbibing alcoholic beverage (one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men) was considered “healthy,” new studies have shown that there is no safe limit for alcohol intake. Any amount of alcohol, even a shot or a can of beer has a deleterious effect on health, no matter how subtle or unobvious it is. *** Homocysteine is a substance within our body that is implicated in the development of arteriosclerosis (hardening of the artery), leading to blockages in the carotid (causing stroke)

and coronary arteries (causing heart attack), including the aorta in the chest and abdomen (causing aneurysm/ rupture and bleeding), and arteries in the legs (causing gangrene). The Framingham studies showed that the more elevated the level of homocysteine in the patient, the higher the finding of blockages in carotid and coronary arteries.

Those with low folate (folic acid) to metabolize the harmful homocysteine have 3 times higher risk of developing heart attack. Folic acid in B complex vitamin is prescribed to these patients. This substance is found in green leafy vegetables, like spinach, lettuce, chard, whole grains, yeast, peanuts, wheat germ and dry beans. *** Is genetic a more important factor than diet in the development of coronary heart disease/heart attack?

Familial hyperlipidemia (super high serum cholesterol due to a genetic defect) is seen in one in 500 persons. Except for this type of individuals, and all “unhealthy habits” (smoking, inadequate, or lack of, daily exercise) remaining equal, diet is a very significant factor in the causation of coronary heart disease. It has been shown that even if the parents had coronary heart disease, the children did not necessarily develop the disease, if these offsprings lived a healthier lifestyle than their elders. Keeping the cholesterol level low by not eating red meat and eggs, and concentrating on fish, vegetables, fruits, hi-fiber diet, coupled with abstinence from cigarettes, doing daily exercises, properly treating high blood pressure and or diabetes, if present, is the best strategy to ward off coronary heart disease/ heart attack and stroke.

The caveat: simply because we cannot choose our parents, does not mean we are trapped in this genetic dilemma, and, therefore, are hopeless. Far from it. If we are disciplined enough to live a healthier lifestyle than our parents did, we can outsmart those particular defective genes they gave us. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indianwa and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; comments questions: scalpelpen@gmail.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Children Just Like You...

From Page 3 of his arms and his body. He studied wind currents, the waters of the sea and the heat of the sun. Having gained the skill, he proceeded to teach his son patiently. At first, Icarus stumbled and fell and when he got past the first few fumbles, the youth learned quickly, his lithe, svelte form seemingly destined for flight.

He learned to fly like a bird, swooping and diving, gliding and circling about, looking down below at the blue waters and their island prison, now a mere speck from above, and frolicking about overhead, chasing the seagulls and rolling in the clouds.

Freedom was a heady drink.

Icarus felt complete elation, knew the incredible lightness of being and tasted the sweet freedom of flight.

Then came the day when Daedalus and Icarus were to fly out of Crete. The sun was up, and the wind was mild and Daedalus decided it was an auspicious day to make the great escape.

Daedalus sat his son down and looked him in the eyes for serious pre-flight instructions knowing that once in the air, there would be little chance for communication.

“Pay attention, Icarus. Stick close behind me and watch your altitude. Fly too low and the sea

with its moisture will make your wings too heavy. Fly too high and the heat of the sun will melt the wax in your wings. Take heed and stay close.” Icarus nodded agreement but he was far too excited and his mind was already in the sky.

(To be continued …) *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@asianjournalinc. com. To read past articles, click on the link Online: http://issuu.com/ asianjournaldigitaledition or you can do searches in the least invasive search engine duckduckgo or bing or yahoo even before google.

I came to the US under a different...

From Page 3 a citizen, unless they have the benefit of Section 245(i). This was a law allowing people who entered without inspection to still get a green card in the U.S., provided they were petitioned on or before April 30, 2001.

However, in your case, you also committed fraud by entering the U.S. under a different name. Therefore, you would be required to submit a fraud waiver, demonstrating “extreme hardship” to a “qualifying relative”, who would either be a spouse or parent who is a U.S. citizen or immigrant (legal permanent resident). Moreover, in your case, you would not be eligible for a provisional waiver, because you committed fraud.

What would need to happen in your case is your citizen spouse

could petition you, and you could also file for adjustment of status and fraud waiver. Of course, no guarantees can be made, but there could be hope in your case, despite having entered the U.S. under a different name.

If this situation applies to you, you should seek the advice of an attorney, who can evaluate your situation and determine your eligibility, guide you through the process, and help prepare the documentation and represent you at your interview. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars of California and New York.

All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different and

results may depend on the facts of the particular case. The information and opinions contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories”, endorsements and re-enactments) are of a general nature, and are not intended to apply to any particular case, and do not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: 1-866-487-3465 (866) – GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 26 , 20 1 8

Most Influential Filipina: Ms. Maria Victoria M. Acosta THE Filipina Women’s Network, a non-profit professional global organization that recognizes women of Filipino ancenstry, recently awarded Ms. Maria Victoria M. Acosta the distinction of being one of the world’s most influential women. It is an honor that befits Ms. Acosta, whose lifelong journey in her corporate and personal life can be summarized in two words: faith and service. These values make Ms. Acosta influential.

With steadfast faith, she serves God, her family, community and country. At home, she is the ideal wife and mother. Within her community, she serves at Villa San Miguel as the Head for the Education and Formation Ministry. At work, she promotes the Philippines, inviting investments from all over the globe.

Ms. Acosta entered corporate life with a challenge to take on—one given by Dr. Andrew L. Tan, Megaworld Corporation’s Chairman and CEO. She went on to spearhead the marketing of Megaworld to the global market.

Faith and skills were her capital into turning this vision into a reality.

Like in any start-up organization, Ms. Acosta encountered numerous trials.

She started with only three staff members, and together they faced the whole world as a market to conquer. From deciding which country offices to open, to visa processing, to the legalities of an international office, establishing an international team proved to be daunting at first. But for Ms. Acosta, it was also very motivating. Back then, her drive didn’t stop at selling globally. She also hoped to make a difference in the lives of overseas Filipinos.

At the time, Ms. Acosta’s primary motivation was: how could Megaworld International help Filipinos enjoy the fruits of their labor? She knows that one of the ways to grow one’s money is through wise property investments, a pearl of wisdom she must impart to fellow Filipinos abroad. More importantly, this motivation is guided and driven by the mission and vision of Dr. Andrew L. Tan, Chairman and CEO, as well: to give clients the very best value for their real estate investment. For Megaworld, this is not a mere vision for it has already pioneered the Live-Work-Play-Learn concept in township development, providing

Ms. Maria Victoria M. Acosta, Senior Vice President of Megaworld Corporation and Managing Director of International Sales at Megaworld Corporation

future homeowners a masterplanned and complete community that adds value to a real estate investment.

For the past two decades, Megaworld International has opened several offices abroad, establishing its presence in over 60 territories. More importantly, it has countless satisfied clients, which helped its sales networks to earn extra income and has created employment opportunities for nearly a hundred backroom support employees in the Philippines.

The turning point was during the period of time spanning from 2011 to 2013 when the sales of Megaworld International grew by leaps and bounds.

Inspired by the bible verse: “May your barns be full with every kind of store. May our sheep increase by thousands, by tens of thousands in our fields; may our oxen be well fattened.” Psalm 144:13A (NAB), Ms. Acosta initiated the strategy, I.N.C.R.E.A.S.E. I - INTENSIVE RECRUITMENT N - NEW TERRITORIES C - CUSTOMER SATISFACTION R - RENEWED TEAMWORK E - EXPERT TRAINING A - AGGRESSIVE EXPANSION S - STRATEGIC GLOBAL BRANDING AND MARKETING E - ENHANCED PROCESSES Ms. Acosta, in addition, took a novel approach in managing the division’s structure. She increased the number of Vice Presidents to spearhead selling in four major regions, which are North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. With more VPs, the rest followed. Megaworld International grew its number of sellers, added

Calendar of Events across

new territories and built its team of support staff. The result was the aggressive promotion of the Philippines as a viable investment and retirement choice. This, by extension, led to a jump in sales.

On Megaworld International’s 20th year, Ms. Acosta continues strongly on her path, armed with the Latin phrase ne plus ultra, “the highest point that can still be achieved.” As seen in Ms. Acosta’s performance, any challenge can be overcome through strong faith, as well as sincere service to one’s country and countrymen.

All things considered, Ms. Acosta doesn’t strive to be influential. Rather, her sincere dedication to share her time, energy, talents and faith serves as an inspiration to others.

Ms. Maria Victoria “Marivic” M. Acosta is currently the Senior Vice President of Megaworld Corporation, and has been the Managing Director of International Sales at Megaworld Corporation since September 1999. She has 30 years of marketing experience in real estate and consumer products.

Prior to her appointment in Megaworld Corp., she served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Empire East Land Holdings Inc. from 1997 to 1998 and served as its Executive Director for Marketing from 1996 to 1997.

Earlier, she served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Raffles & Co. Inc. from 1987 to 1995. She graduated from the University of the Philippines with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Major in Marketing.

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America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS O C TO B E R 22 - N OV E M B E R 9

FASGI presents FAIR art exhibit in Los Angeles FASGI is pleased to announce FAIR – FASGI Artists Impressions & Reflections – an art exhibit to be held from October 9, 2018 to November 9, 2018 at the FASGI Bayanihan Center (135 N. Park View St., Los Angeles, CA 90026). FAIR is presented as part of FASGI’s Arts Incubator Program. FAIR will showcase five internationally-acclaimed artists who will unveil new and original artworks: Rafael Maniago, Cesar Devera, Johnny Otilano, Mat Relox, and Tiinz Taruc. FASGI’s Arts Incubator Program was created in 2016 to promote and uplift Filipino and Filipino American arts and culture. The program’s mission is to: (1) help Filipino American artists to be properly recognized and given economic opportunities for advancement; (2) enable Filipino Americans to get in touch with their culture; and (3) to educate mainstream America on Philippine/American art. The program currently includes a permanent gallery, special exhibits, portraiture, parol-making, and an artist-in-residence program. Art workshops, instruction, and live projects are currently being planned for commencement in 2019.

O C TO B E R 26 -28

Wellspring gathering in Palm Springs, CA The creators of Wanderlust bring the first annual Wellspring, a first-of-its-kind wellness gathering, featuring the world’s leading innovators, teachers and socially conscious companies from Friday, October 26 to Sunday, October 28 in Palm Springs, CA. From invigorating workouts and hands-on treatments to inspirational, actionable workshops, Wellspring connects us to a common goal: fostering healthy individuals, a healthy society and a healthy planet. Events will take place from October 26-28, 2018 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Palm Springs Convention Center (277 N. Avenida Caballeros, Palm Springs, CA 92262) and Renaissance Hotel (888 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262). Wellspring Sage badges are on sale now athttps://wanderlust.com/wellspring/. The 3-day badges include unlimited access to all event areas, advance scheduling for all sessions; guaranteed access to any pre-scheduled session, access to lodging at the on-site Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel and select partner hotels (first come, first served), a premium gift bag and more. For a limited time, receive a $150 hotel credit when you purchase your Sage badge. Special savings and scholarships are available for wellness professionals, locals to the Palm Springs area, active students, and active and retired military and their families.

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

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 2 , 20 1 8

Rodjun and Rayver on...

From Page 2 is still the same. He respects me since I’m older than him. Our Mama and Papa have instilled in us to be respectful to our elders, and be patient and understanding with our younger siblings.”

What are your hobbies/ pastime apart from dancing?

Rayver: “Basketball and gym. Si Rodjun mahilig siyang mag-race.”

Rodjun: “Mga Spartan Race, obstacles, sometimes (fun)run.”

When it comes to romantic relationships, Rodjun admittedly first got into a serious relationship since he is the older one. However, both of them agree that Rayver had more relationships in the past than his brother Rodjun. There was even a time when both of them liked the same girl. “It happened in the past but of course hindi yung tipong igi-girlfriend namin,” quipped Rodjun. “We have the same type of girl crushes before.

We both like mestiza girls and siya talaga yung magaling makakita ng magandang babae. Whoever he admires, I admire, too,” added Rayver.

Rodjun is now engaged to his long-time girlfriend, Dianne Medina. In the past, Rayver was romantically linked with celebrities like Sarah Geronimo, Cristine Reyes, a Fil-German Bb. Pilipinas finalist and was recently rumored dating Kapuso actress Janine Gutierrez. As both seem to be happy and contented with their current love life status, the Cruz gentlemen are also quick to say that they both are attracted to God-fearing and family-oriented women.

When the other is down or in trouble, how do you show your support and care?

Rayver: “Rodjun is very supportive. He is always there every time you need him.”

Rodjun: “Since we both grew up together, we know when there’s something wrong, we know when there’s a problem.

Until now, we would always say ‘I love you’ when we talk on the phone. Yung ‘onting usap o yakap,

to have an award someday. I will continue to dance and sing habang bumubuo ng pamilya. After the wedding, I also plan to focus on my dream business na magkagym.”

Rayver: “Hopefully, like Rodjun, I plan to put up my own business.

Five years from now, if I’m already stable in life, pwede nang magsettle down kahit papaano, kung iuukol man ni Lord.”

If you were given three wishes for your brother, what would they be?

Rayver: “First, I hope he would give me a nice birthday present. (laughs) Second, his dream house is going to be finished soon so hopefully I will have my own room.

Third, sana bigyan niya kami ng maraming-maraming pamangkin.”

Rodjun: “Long life so he could achieve all his dreams in life. I’m really proud of him. Of course, the Photo from Instagram/@rayvercruz gift of family, that we would grow old happy together and to travel gumagaan na yung problema around the world with our mom, namin. Our mom is our source our other siblings and our future of strength every time we have families.” problems.”

What is your message for What best advice can you give to your brother at this point your brother?

Rodjun: “I am always here for in your lives? you. Whatever his decisions are, Rodjun: “Always remember we will always be here to support that whatever happens, God is him. We will never leave his side. there to guide you. Be confident, Solid kami forever.” happy and always give back to Rayver: “Don’t ever change. others. Share your blessings to Sana maging close tayo those in need. Even if Rayver is habambuhay, kung paano tayo younger than me, idol ko ‘yan kasi ngayon hanggang pagtanda natin. napakahusay n’yan sa lahat ng I love you very much, bro.” ginagawa niya. Gift ‘yan from God Blessed with good looks and so i-share niya ‘yan and pagbutihin niya lang palagi yung work niya. I’m god-like physique, Rayver and Rodjun have their own unique always here to support him.” characteristics and expertise that Rayver: “Being your younger make them stand out from the brother, I will always have your rest. Undoubtedly, these young back. Follow your dreams and I’m men got what it takes to evolve here to support your plans and and become better actors/talents endeavors kasi mabuti at masipag in the Kapuso network. na tao si Rodjun. Kaya maraming As the Cruz brothers cruise blessings ang natatanggap niya sa their way through this fast-paced buhay.” and ever changing world of show What are your plans in the business, they have each other’s next five years? support to reach their dreams.

Rodjun: “My wedding is Together, their sibling love scheduled next year. I have a lot remains unbreakable and nothing of dream roles and plans for my can loosen the bond of brothers. career. I love my craft and I want

PACCAL 26th Anniversary...

From Page 4 affair as inspirational speaker.

Unassuming in her exquisite straightforwardness while aptly fortified with a compassionately munificent heart, she easily demonstrated her magnanimous openhandedness when she voluntarily donated a boxfull of Jokoy tees as PACCAL’s fundraising source.

Gorgeous and academic Hon. Vice-Consul Tanya Faye Ramiro, with her regally captivating deportment, delivered a less verbose but evocative and eloquent speech and later, in her capacity as an authority from the Philippine Consulate Office (NY), she formally administered the oath-taking rite of PACCAL’s new set of officers for the Fiscal Year 2019-2021.

Exhilaration and interminable thrill seemed to be the foremost essence of the night. Excitement had not yet died down then there was the coronation of the 2019 PACCAL muse in the person of sixteener and PACCAL awardee Sabrina Ramos with dashing Daniel Cabezas as escort. Elegant in her serpentine-cut fuchsia gown embellished with black applique and intricate beadings while outgoing titlist Denine Miess (escorted by debonair Hernan Cabezas) bequeathed her crown following her farewell walk.

The fuchsia and black-themed stage was a fitting backdrop for the well-esteemed awardees composed of: Sabrina Ramos (Teen Beauty with a Purpose); Ruffy Ronas of Kalye Solutions (Excellence in Advertising & Promotions; Ray Maranan (Excellence in Photography); Michelle Pross (Vocal Entertainer of the Year); Peter Marco (Excellence in Visual Arts & Prints); Jan Paul Pablo (Excellence in Teaching Profession); Take The Stage (Most Promising Teen Band of the Year); Cherry Marmes Smyth (Excellence in KIDS Education Advocacy); Kevin Obate, DPT (Excellence in PT & Sax Virtuoso); Ogie and Mel Mendoza (Entertainment Producers of the Year); and Dr. Restituto Estacio (Exemplary Civic & Social Services).

Other recipients of the recognition were: Myrna Young (Excellence in Nursing Profession); Allan Renier Mendez, DPT (Excellence in Physical & Sports Therapy); Dr. Romulo A. Aromin (Excellence in Medical Profession); Dr. Manny & Ditas Malasig (Parents of the Year); and Salvacion Carungay (Senior Citizen of the Year).

On behalf of this year’s Cream of the Crop, the everamiable Dr. Romulo Alcalde Aromin delivered a redolent and heartwarming response following the awarding ceremony after which the traditional Royal Waltz ensued that formally capped the evening’s highlight.

Aside from the symbolic trophies, the awardees were given Certificates of Recognition courtesy of the Office of Jersey City Council President Rolando

Lavarro.

PACCAL Screening and Awards Committee was more than gratified while instantaneously honored to have past awardees and currently esteemed Honorary Chairs and generous donors to the 26th Founding Anniversary Gala and Awards Night: Dr. Francia De Vera, Dr. Rosemarie Parreno, and Mark Alvarez.

Ably hosted by PACCAL resident Masters of Ceremonies, veteran radio announcer and community leader Fiorello Salvo and popular community figure Allah Arcangel, the notable event was thrillingly splashed

with a dash of pleasure by the lavish give away gift certificates courtesy of Miss Mita Quiogue and Je Olaguera’s Infinity Entertainment NYC. Giving credit where it’s due, PACCAL would like to acknowledge the indefatigable services, untiring efforts, and bigheartedness accorded by PACCAL Board of Director Ria Serrano, Maricar Taino, Oscar Printing, Glossy Skinnovation, Asian Journal, JC Council Pres.

Rolando Lavarro, and the committee members of PACCAL. For comments and suggestions please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 26 , 20 1 8

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 26 , 20 1