112517 - Los Angeles Weekend Edition

November 25-28, 2017 Volume 27 - No. 95 • 4 Sections – 30 Pages

USA

DATELINE LA Consulates General of ASEAN celebrate 50th founding anniversary FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

THE Consulates General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Los Angeles came together on Monday, November 20 in commemoration of the 50th Founding Anniversary of ASEAN at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.

The celebration came nearly a week after the commencement of the 31st ASEAN Summit and related summits held in Manila, Philippines under the chairmanship of the Philippines and President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

Representing their respective countries were the Consulates General and Consuls of Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand.

“It gives me great pleasure to join my fellow ASEAN colleagues to be part of ASEAN’s 50th Anniversary celebration in Los Angeles,” said Consulate General of Indonesia, Simon D.I. Soekarno.

“Together we celebrate ASEAN’s 50thyear journey from its humble beginning as an organization focused on creating stability in the region until it became the global force that it is today,” he added.

ASEAN was founded on August 8, 1967 by its five hailed founding fathers — Foreign

Duterte considers resigning if he ‘can’t control drugs’

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, November 24 said anew that he will consider quitting from his post if he fails to control the problem of illegal drugs in the country.

“If I cannot control drugs, then maybe it is time for me to think about resignation. ‘Pag hindi ko kaya ito, bababa talaga ako (If I really can’t, I’ll step down),” Duterte said in his speech during the 67th Anniversary of the First Scout Ranger Regiment in San Miguel, Bulacan.

Duterte, who won the 2016 presidential election in a landslide victory, vowed to solve the drug problem in country within the first six

months of his term.

However, in August of this year, he admitted that the drug menace “cannot be solved by one man, for a president for one term.”

He then repeated his previous remarks that he has no need for more prestige and power.

“O, why should I be there? Only for the noise? I do not need it. I have enough accolades and praises all my life... Kaya kung hindi ko ito kaya, aalis ako (That’s why if I really can’t, I’ll leave),” he said.

In the same speech, Duterte also reiterated that he is “inclined” to bring the Philippine National Police (PNP) back to his anti-illegal drug campaign.

Last month, Duterte ordered the PNP for Operatives of the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency the second time to stay out of the drug war (PDEA) raid a suspected shabu laboratory in Valenzuela City.

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Inquirer.net photo by Jong Manlapaz

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Defrocked priest in US arrested in Laguna A FORMER Filipino priest wanted in the United States for allegedly molesting two minors in North Dakota between the years 1995 to 1998 has been arrested in Calamba, Laguna, Philippines on Sunday, November 19.

Reports say Fernando Laude Sayasaya was consequently brought to Manila for extradition to the U.S. where he is facing two counts of “gross sexual imposition” filed by brothers Hugo Zamarron and Pablo Zamarron.

Sayasaya faces accusations of engaging the then 15-year-old brothers in sexual contact, both in their home and church, during his assignment as priest at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in West Fargo, North Dakota.

The ex-Catholic priest reportedly asked for the church’s permission in December 1998 to visit the Philippines for Christmas, and said he would return to the U.S. in January 1999 which he failed to do.

“Alam niya na papalabas na ‘yung warrant of arrest [so] nagpaalam siya dun sa Amerika. Nagpaalam siya dun na magbabakasyon siya sa Pilipinas (He knew of the warrant of arrest release in America. He said that he would be going on vacation to the Philippines),” said Laguna Provincial Intelligence Branch chief, Superintendent Vic Cabatingan, according to GMA News.

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte has named Commissioner Sheriff Abas as the new Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman, and former Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera as the chairperson of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

Duterte signed their appointment papers on Wednesday, November 22, which were released by Malacañang on Friday, November 24.

According to his appointment paper, Abas’s term will expire on February 2, 2022.

His nomination, however, has yet to be confirmed by the Commission on Appointments (COA).

Abas is the nephew of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal. He was appointed as elections com-

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Sheriff Abas

Inquirer.net photo

Sheriff Abas named new Comelec chief Agnes Devanadera named ERC chairman

by AJPRESS

TEST FIRE. President Rodrigo Duterte, labeled as a “tyrant” by a top critic, does a test fire on one of the sniper rifles donated by the Chinese government while the troops conduct a sniping capability demonstration during his visit at Fort Magsaysay in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on Wednesday, November 22.

Malacañang photo by Ace Morandante

PH military declares all-out war vs Reds

by DEMPSEY

REYES ManilaTimes.net

THE Armed Forces of the Philippines on Friday declared a nationwide war against the armed wing of the communist movement, the New People’s Army (NPA), after President Rodrigo Duterte’s issuance of an official proclamation terminating peace talks.

Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr., the AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla military spokesman, said troops would ManilaTimes.net photo begin conducting “focused military op-

erations.”

“It is the mandate of the Armed Forces to go after criminals and illegally armed elements, it’s part of our mandate.

We are performing our mandate so whatever term you will use, it is performance of our mandate,” Padilla told reporters in a news conference at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

“You can call it different things but for us, we will fulfill our mandate [by

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8 rescued from US Navy aircraft crash SC begins hearing on in PH Sea, search for remaining 3 ends Duterte’s drug war

by RAE

ANN VARONA AJPress

rescued and are in “good condition.”

THE search for three remainAccording to a U.S. Navy ing sailors who went missing af- statement, the C-2A Greyhound ter a United States Navy aircraft propeller cargo plane crashed carrying 11 personnel crashed into the ocean southeast of Okiinto the Philippine Sea, ended nawa at approximately 2:45 p.m. on Friday, November 24, said on Wednesday, November 22.

Three people are missing after a U.S Navy plane crashed into the ocean southeast of Okinawa the Navy’s 7th Fleet.

“Our thoughts and prayers on Wednesday. The Navy transport plane was carrying 11 crew and passengers when it went The other eight aboard were down.

U.S. Navy photo by Eduardo Otero

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by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

— many of whom supposedly resisted arrest — have been killed since the so-called drug THIS week, the Supreme Court war launched last year. Critics of (SC) began hearing arguments the campaign have claimed that on petitions to declare Philip- summary executions are occurpine President Rodrigo Duterte’s ring during operations, an allecampaign against illegal drugs as gation that the police has repeatunconstitutional. edly denied.

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From the Front Page

Duterte considers resigning...

PAGE A1 t

amid public outcry over alleged police abuses and killings of suspects, including teenagers. Replacing the PNP, he designated the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) as the “sole agency” in charge of his anti-narcotics campaign.

But just days ago, Duterte said

he would soon reappoint the PNP to spearhead his drug war again, saying the PDEA may have been struggling due to the lack of manpower.

“I have not yet signed the executive order But I am inclined to call back the police and join again in the drug war,” said the president.

Duterte first stopped the PNP from implementing his anti-narcotics in January following the death of South Korean businessman Jee Ick-joo allegedly at the hands of police officers. He allowed the return of PNP to the drug war shortly after in February.

‘Ploy to ease outrage’ In a statement, Senator Antonio Trillanes claimed that Duterte’s recent order to remove the PNP from the forefront of his drug war was just the president’s plot to dampen the public’s rising outrage.

“That was always Duterte’s plan. The transfer to PDEA was merely a ruse to appease the public’s outrage over the high-profile extrajudicial killings in August and September,” said Trillanes.

The senator was apparently referring to the cases of teenagers Kian Loyd delos Santos and Carl Angelo Arnaiz, who were both killed by cops in Caloocan City as part of their drug operations.

Trillanes also claimed Duterte’s drug war “was never about eradicating illegal drug.” The campaign, he pointed out, was instead the president’s “instrument to sow terror and fear in the hearts of his own people so they would praise and worship him or at least won’t criticize or oppose him.”

“That is what a narcissistic tyrant like him longs for,” the senator added.

For its part, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) assured the public that it “will closely monitor all actions taken” by the implementers of the of the anti-drug campaign.

“The president as chief executive is required to enforce the laws but when he does so, he must always comply with the constitution and established human rights standards,” CHR Chairman Chito Gascon told reporters at an Integrated Bar of

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PROTECT THE CHILDREN. Filipino children call on legislators to protect their rights and respond to their needs during the commemoration of World Children’s Day at the Museo Pambata in Manila on Thursday, Nov. 23. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and representatives of non-government organizations also launched an anti-child cybercrime campaign to emphasize the importance of child online protection.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma

Sheriff Abas appointed...

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missioner by former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III in April 2015. Prior to his post as the Comelec commissioner, Abas was acting Assistant Regional Director Civil Service Commission in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Abas is replacing former poll chief Andres Bautista, who resigned from last month amid allegations of having unexplained wealth. Bautista’s resignation was supposedly effective by the end of the year, but Duterte accepted it in October.

Devanadera, on the other hand, will serve until July 10, 2022.

During the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Devanadera served as acting justice secretary when then Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez was on medical leave. She also served as the Solicitor Gen-

PH military declares...

eral during Arroyo’s term.

Devanadera is replacing Jose Vicente Salazar, who was dismissed by Malacañang last month after being found guilty of simple grave misconduct in connection with corruption charges.

Unconstitutional?

Asked by reporters if Abas’ appointment does not violate the Constitution—as the law prohibit reappointments in constitutional bodies, such as Comelec, Commission on Audit (COA), Civil Service Commission (CSC)— Comelec spokesman James Jimenez cited the Supreme Court (SC) ruling in the Funa versus Villar case.

In its ruling in April 2012, the high court declared the appointment of then-COA commissioner Reynaldo Villa as acting chairman and then chairman was not unconstitutional.

According to the high court, “a

guidance to our units to be vigilant [and]stay alert, pertaining to the movements of the NPA,” PaPAGE A1 t the siege by Islamic State-linked dilla said. conducting]focused military op- Maute terrorists of Marawi City in Talks at LGU level on erations [that]are in pursuit of our Lanao del Sur. He described the NPA rebels as mandate,” he added.

The military expects the NPA to “criminals” and said all commuFocused military operations will “show off” by intensifying attacks nist fighters would be arrested by be enforced especially in Mind- against government forces in the the government. anao where martial law was or- countryside.

“All who wear arms or not ledered by Duterte in May following “We have already provided gally bearing those arms are not

commissioner who resigns after serving in the Commission for less than 7 years is eligible for an appointment to the position of Chairman for the unexpired portion of the term of the departing chairman.”

SC declared that the “promotion of Villar was legal but he could serve up to Feb. 15, 2011 only because his tenure should not exceed seven years.”

“Such appointment is not covered by the ban on reappointment, provided that the aggregate period of the length of service as commissioner and the unexpired period of the term of the predecessor will not exceed 7 years and provided further that the vacancy in the position of Chairman resulted from death, resignation, disability, or removal by impeachment,” SC added.

As of present, it is unclear if Abas, who will serve Bautista’s unexpired term or until February 2, 2022, has already resigned as Comelec commissioner. n supposed to remain at large. They will endanger our communities and hence, they must be arrested,” Padilla noted.

On Thursday, Duterte signed Proclamation 360, declaring the termination of peace negotiations with the National Democratic Front (NDF), the political arm of the Communist

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

LA Consulates General of ASEAN celebrate...

PAGE A1 t Ministers Adam Malik of Indonesia, Narciso R. Ramos of the Philippines, Tun Abdul Razak of Malaysia, S. Rajaratnam of Singapore, and Thanat Khoman of Thailand — to advocate for peace, unity, stability, security, and prosperity through regional cooperation.

The five nations were then joined by Brunei Darussalam (1984), Vietnam (1995), Myanmar (1997), Laos (1997), and Cambodia (1999), making it the ten-member intergovernmental organization it is today.

Together, the ten-nation bloc covers a total land area of over 1,700,000 square miles, and holds an estimated population of over 646 million people. A majority of its population comes from Indonesia at 261.1 million as of 2016, followed by the Philippines at 103.3 million as of 2016.

Economic powerhouse “ASEAN’s list of achievements and contributions to the world are many,” said Philippine Consulate General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz.

“Despite our diversity, we manage to rise above the barriers of culture, religion, and traditions to cultivate a region of peace, prosperity, and geopolitical stability among our members,” he added.

Cruz joined the other Consulates General and Consuls in emphasizing ASEAN as one of the world’s strongest economic powerhouses.

“Since it’s formation, ASEAN has seen an underdeveloped region blossom into one of the most active and resolute drivers of today’s global economy,” said Cruz.

“Today’s ASEAN is recognized as one of the world’s most successful region of organizations,” he added.

Currently, ASEAN boasts one of the world’s largest economies, and is a preferred destination for both investors and multinational companies. With a combined GDP of $2.4 trillion, ASEAN as a whole has the sixth largest economy in the world, and the third largest in Asia.

With over 646,000,000 people (larger than North America or the European Union), ASEAN countries combined hold the world’s third largest market and third largest labor force, following China and India.

According to the World Economic Forum, 12.3 percent of

ASEAN members and representatives of Consulates in Los Angeles came together on Monday, November 20 to celebrate its 50th year anniversary.

AJPress photos by Rae Ann Varona

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Defrocked priest in US arrested...

of West Fargo, North Dakota, who investigated Sayasaya’s illegal acts, as valid.

PAGE A1 t “This Court gives respect and 28, 2010 found probable cause According to Laguna police to grant the request of the U.S. credence to the foregoing facwho said they received a tip re- Department of Justice (DoJ) to tual findings, which are amply garding Sayasaya’s location, the extradite Sayasaya who then at- supported by the evidence on record,” said the appeals court. It former Catholic priest had been tempted to challenge it. changing his name and resiIn a 23-page ruling, the CA also stated that the Philippine dence for the past 15 years. His through Associate Justice Amy government “has an obligation warrant of arrest was released in Lazar-Javier denied Sayasaya’s to ensure crimes not go unpun2002. petition of reversal and said the ished”.

“Suppression of crimes is the “Kaya nga nagkaroon tayo evidence against his alleged ng tracking dito. Nagkaroon sexual offences “met the stan- concern not only of the state where it is committed but also tayo ng validation sa address dard of probable cause”. na binigay sa warrant of arrest, The CA decision also reiter- of any other state to which the wala siya dun. So trinack-down ated that the RTC found the af- criminal may have escaped,” natin kasi may mga kakilala siya, fidavit of detective Grey Clayton it added. (Rae Ann Varona/AJhanggang ma-landing natin sa Warren of the Police Department Press) Barangay Looc, Calamba City (So we did a tracking here. We got validation at the address given in the warrant of arrest, he was not there. So we tracked him down because he had a lot of acquaintances, until we landed in Barangay Looc, Calamba City),” said Cabatingan.

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Members of the Filipino Kayaman ng Lahi dance company. The ASEAN 50th Founding Anniversary celebration ended with the sharing of cultural foods and cultural dance presentations.

the ASEAN GDP comes from the travel and tourism industry — that’s ten percent of the global GDP. “These accomplishments are the fruits of ASEAN’s hard labor in pushing economic cooperation initiatives for all, as well as the region’s expansion to the global markets,” said Cruz.

Philippine ASEAN chairmanship The 31st ASEAN Summit held in Manila took place on November 13 and 14, under the chairmanship of the Philippines. The country previously held the chair in 2006, 1999, and 1987.

Attendees of the ASEAN summit and related summits included ASEAN leaders like Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and Indonesian President Joko Widodo, and dialogue partners such as Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and U.S. President Donald Trump.

“The Philippines was one of the founding fathers of ASEAN and it was an honor for our country to host this year’s summit meeting for its 50th year,”

said Cruz.

The theme of the Philippines’ chairmanship for 2017 was titled “Partnering for change, engaging the world”.

The Philippine’s six thematic priorities were to create a people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN, maintain a peaceful and stable region, cooperate in maritime security, advance inclusive and innovate-led growth, promote ASEAN resiliency, and promote ASEAN as a model of regionalism and as a global player.

“We fully support the thematic priorities of ASEAN adopted by the Philippines during its chairmanship in 2017,” said Consulate General of Myanmar, Aung Soe Win, commending the Philippines’ chairmanship in 2017.

One of the most significant outcomes from the recent 31st ASEAN Summit was the signing of the “ASEAN Consensus on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers” on Tuesday, November 14 — a follow up document to the “ASEAN Declaration on the Protection

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Duterte considers resigning...

PAGE A1 t the Philippines (IBP) forum.

Gascon said his agency “will not tell [Duterte] what he should or should not do” but will inform him and other key officials “when we see that they transgress human rights standards which he is also obliged to uphold and defend.”

The CHR, he noted, is “mandated to monitor all forms of human rights violations.”

Gascon went on to say, “Whether it’s the PNP or any law enforcement agency that will pursue these efforts of the war on drugs of the administration, we will just continue to do our part as we expect them to do their part in terms of assisting us in ensuring the public is reassured that no human rights violations are occurring.” ■

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Dateline USa

8 rescued from US Navy aircraft crash...

PAGE A1 t are with our lost shipmates and their families,� said Rear Adm. Marc Dalton, Commander, Task Force 70. “As difficult as this is, we are thankful for the rapid and effective response that led to the rescue of eight of our shipmates, and I appreciate the professionalism and dedication shown by all who participated in the search efforts,� he added.

The U.S. Navy ceased search and rescue operations at 10:00

a.m. Japan Standard Time on Friday, according to a U.S. Navy statement released Thursday, November 23.

Both the U.S. Navy and units from the Japan Maritime SelfDefense Force (JMSDF) continued the search and rescue operations for two days, according to the statement. “During the course of two days, eight U.S. Navy and JMSDF ships, three helicopter squadrons and maritime patrol aircraft covered nearly 1,000

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square nautical miles in the search for the missing sailors,â&#x20AC;? said the statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eight Sailors were immediately recovered from the crash and transferred to Ronald Reagan for medical evaluation. All are in good condition at this time,â&#x20AC;? it added.

The names of the sailors are being withheld as relatives are notified.

Cause under investigation The cause of the accident remains under investigation as of Friday, November 24. Tokyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera told reporters following the crash that the U.S. military initially indicated engine failure as a probable cause. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From the U.S. military, we have received an initial report that engine trouble might be the cause,â&#x20AC;? said Onodera.

The twin-engine cargo C-2 aircraft was en-route to the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), which is currently operating in the Philippine Sea. The C-2A Greyhound has been used by the U.S. Navy for over 50 years. According to Military. com, the aircrafts are said to be replaced by MV-22 Ospreys starting 2021 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the C-2 is expected to stop flying after 2026.

Tough year for 7th Fleet The last time a Navy C-2A crashed was in 1973, which resulted in seven people dead due to engine failure shortly after taking off from Chania-Souda airport in Greece. But the latest crash marks the fifth fatal incident experienced by the Japanbased 7th Fleet this year.

Prior to Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crash, 10 sailors were killed in August when the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS John S. McCain collided with an oil tanker near Singapore. The deadly collision came just two months after the USS Fitzgerald, another destroyer of the same kind, crashed into a Philippine-flagged container ship off the coast of Japan in June, killing seven people.

After investigations, the U.S. Navy said that the crashes were preventable, and that the commanding officer exercised poor judgment and leadership of the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training program.

Following the McCain collision, two U.S. Navy commanders were fired due to a â&#x20AC;&#x153;loss of confidence in their ability to commandâ&#x20AC;?. The Navyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top ad-

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SIPA marks 45 years of community service in LA

Apl.de.ap of the Black Eyed Peas shares his experience with SIPA

Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) Executive Director Aquilina Soriano-Versoza (center) with award presenters Roshon Fegan and Asia Jackson

Award presenters Kobe Paras, Asia Jackson, and Roshon Fegan with musical guest Jessica Reynoso AJPress photos Noel Ty Chef Isa Fabro receives the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s empowerment award

Pioneer Spirit Awards were given to outgoing board president (L-R) Dr. Leo Pandac, retired SIPA board members Benito Miranda, Joe Sayas, and Cirilo Pinlac (not pictured)

Los Angeles Mayor of Budget and Innovation Miguel Sangalang, one of the awardees

ed in the future,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a fight to do for the next four years essentially and make sure that everyone has moved in a nation that matters and our voices are heard from Los Angeles to Washington. We really want to support our immigrant communities both within the Filipino community and our friends within [other] communities.â&#x20AC;?

The Kapangyarihang Pinay (Pinay Empowerment) honor was given to Isa Fabro, an award-winning pastry chef considered one of the best in LA known for her mango royal and ube pili nut pies.

In her speech, Fabro thanked her mentors and colleagues and acknowledged her mom as her â&#x20AC;&#x153;greatest inspiration.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Throughout history, Filipina nurses have traveled abroad for work and a better life. My mom is one of many who left their country and loved ones but it was their courage that helped build a foundation and a future for the Filipino-American generations,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And it is their legacy that Filipino-American women like myself can stand with respect, pride, and dignity. And so I accept this inaugural Pinay Empowerment Award not only for myself but for the countless Pinays who are cooks, artists, homemakers, healthcare workers, civil service, teachers, writers, vendors and business owners. We persevere with resilience, grace, and strength. You would not be here without us!â&#x20AC;?

Pilipino Workers Center (PWC) Executive Director Aquilina Soriano-Versoza received the Bayanihan (Community Service) award for her work in championing workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rights. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working so that we can work together with SIPA, work together with other Filipino or-

ganizations so we can help build a voice and leadership for Filipino workers and for the whole Filipino community because we are the largest [Asian Pacific Islander] population in California,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And we are like a sleeping giant except we have not yet organized and got to the point where can really utilize our powers, our community to make sure that every one of our needs and everyone one of our community members have their issues addressed.â&#x20AC;?

The last awards for Apo (Pioneer) Spirit Award were given to former SIPA board members, Benito Miranda (regional sales manager for Care 1st health Plan Medicare Division), outgoing board president Leo Pandac (program director of Pacific Asian Alcohol and Drug Program), Atty.

Joe Sayas, and Cirilo Pinlac (accountant). â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have learned many valuable lessons in this journey called leadership. I have known the joy of success and as well have experienced the humility of failure.

The valuable lesson, however, is the one that dictated that a person must rise up and continue to move forward,â&#x20AC;? Miranda said.

Several Fil-Am entertainers were present at the event, such as Grammy award-winning performer Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas, actors Dante Basco, Eugene Cordero, and Roshon Fegan, and NCAA basketball player Kobe Paras. Award presenters included actors Asia Jackson and Leslie Anne huff, along with YouTube stars Megan Batoon and Liane V. Ryan Gallagher, Jessica Reynoso, and Jeserey Sanchez performed musical numbers, with music provided by DJ Icy Ice. Philippine Consul General Adelio Cruz and representatives from the Consulate also attended. n

by AJPress

SEARCh to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA) recently had its annual gala celebration on Friday, November 17 to highlight 45 years of serving Filipino Ameriu PAGE A6 cans in Los Angeles through health, economic, and social service programs.

With over 200 guests present at the Sheraton Universal hotel, the theme of the night was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Embrace, Empower, Evolve.â&#x20AC;?

Emceed by Krista Kleiner and DJ PJ Butta, the program was filled with performances, networking and honoring seven awardees who have positively impacted the Fil-Am community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;SIPA is proud to recognize these passionate and dedicated leaders who share our commitment to Filipino culture and community,â&#x20AC;? said Dorothy Gamoning, interim executive director of SIPA. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Like SIPA, they are dedicated to the enrichment and empowerment of Pilipinos in America and improving the quality of life for everyone.â&#x20AC;?

The first award of the night was Lingkod Bayan (Political Leadership) given to LA Deputy Mayor for Budget & Innovation, Miguel Sangalang, who rose to the position earlier this year.

Sangalang said it is â&#x20AC;&#x153;a real honor to actually be following in [Mayor Eric Garcettiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s] footstepsâ&#x20AC;? who was awarded by SIPA about 13 years ago when he was still councilmember of District 13, which covers historic Filipinotown. Sharing his immigrant story, he highlighted the importance of community services in helping future generations succeed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think this is a really big thing for us especially since weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re coming into the age where we have to make sure that everyone is count-

Silent auction before the gala

Singer Jessica Reynoso (right) sings the Philippine and US National Anthems. She is joined by SIPA gala emcees, PJ Butta and Krista Kleiner

SIPA marked its 45th year of service to the Fil-Am community with a gala on Friday, Nov. 17 at the Sheraton Universal Hotel

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Dateline USa

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A

Diaz, Macrohon test mettle vs world’s top lifters in LA tiff OLyMPIC silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz and upcoming Kristel Macrohon will be competing in this year’s World Weightlifting Championships in Los Angeles from November 28-December.

This competition will be joined by the best in the world and almost equivalent to the Olympics.

Both athletes recently won honors for the country in the Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games in Turkmenistan. Diaz bagged a silver medal while Macrohon took home a bronze. Coach Tony Agustin, PSC’s Mark Velasco and the group are already in Los Angeles for early training in the cold winter climate.

“We’re actually preparing for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the next years Asian Games in Indonesia. Hopefully, we can send at least three or four Lifters to the Olympics and more to the Asian Games,” said Philippine Weightlifting Association president Monico Puentevella.

“We would also like to thank the PSC for giving us a new training gymnasium in Rizal.” (Philstar.com with reports from Philstar.com photo AP)

2016 Olympic medalist Hidilyn Diaz

SC begins hearing...

PAGE A1 t Last month, lawyers from the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) filed a petition before the high court. They argued that the drug war should be declared unconstitutional because it paves way for the police to kill suspects in guise of “neutralizing” them during operations.

“That could be subject to misinterpretation by the policeman on the ground,” Jose Manuel “Chel” Diokno of FLAG said during the course of oral arguments on Tuesday, November 21.

Diokno pointed out that the term “neutralize” could mean “kill.”

“It expressly authorized the police to kill [drug suspects] in the guise of neutralizing or negating them without the benefit of trial and due process of law in violation of the Bill of Rights,” Diokno said.

He added, “The only true and lasting solution to rampant crimes is to strengthen the justice system, not to supplant it with justice that emanates from the barrels of guns.”

In their petition, human rights advocates wanted the SC to declare the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s “Project: Double Barrel,” also known as Duterte’s drug war, unconstitutional.

The campaign aimed “to clear all drug-affected barangays across the country, conduct no let up operations against illegal drugs personalities, and dismantle drug syndicates” by pursuing the “neutralization” of illegal drug personalities and its network backbone.

Petitioners also want the high court to declare as unconstitutional the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)’s Memorandum Circular

Supreme Court justices, led by Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, enter the SC en banc session hall in Manila during the start of oral arguments on the consolidated petitions to declare President Duterte’s drug war unconstitutional on Tuesday, Nov. 21.

Philstar.com photo by Miguel De GuzmaN

PH military declares...

PAGE A2 t Party of the Philippines.

Padilla clarified that the military did not induce the president to end negotiations with the NDF. “The president has his own basis and he independently made this decision which stemmed from the feedback he had received from different agencies [and]not just from the military, but from police and local government units (LGU) as well,” he said.

Padilla said the military had been supportive of Duterte’s move to pursue peace with the communists, but pointed out that the Left had “not shown any sincerity” while talks were ongoing. “[I]n case of the past peace talks, it is now very clear that the behavior of the other side will always lead to the failure of peace talks,” he said.

“There is a bright spot [however]. We will continue to campaign, together with the LGUs, to pursue peace talks because even though the formal talks at the national level have ended, our local [government units]and our forces will be joining forces to give chance to those on the mountains to go back to their normal lives,” Padilla added.

‘NPA crimes increased’ Padilla presented before the media a report on the number of crimes committed by NPA rebels in eastern and western Mindanao from 2016 up to the first quarter of 2017.

In Western Mindanao, there was a 223.67-percent increase in NPAaffected barangay (villages) while in the Eastern Mindanao, a 102.20 percent increase was seen.

Padilla estimated that there were more or less 3,800 NPA members nationwide.

“Relatively, this will not change because their recruitments are continuous so they will not be totally wiped out.”

NPA rebels were involved in various criminal activities, including ambushes, raids, harassment, bombings, kidnapping, robbery, hold-up, arson and sabotage. Arson activities destroyed properties worth about P120 million.

Padilla also disclosed that the “higher organ” of the NPA had issued a directive to all its subregional commands to launch tactical offensives against military forces, citing three reasons.

These reasons were: the government’s rejection of the offer of the communist movement to help the military in fighting the Maute group in Marawi City; participation of US troops in the battle against the Maute group “in which the NPA in Mindanao will also be affected;” and the cancellation of the fifth round of formal peace talks.

Now that peace talks have been officially terminated by the government, the military spokesman said NDF consultants would be rearrested, since their immunities were only in effect while the peace talks were ongoing. “[The cancellation of peace talks] will pave the way for their re-arrest because they were only released for the formal talks,” Padilla said.

Seventeen NDF consultants were freed from imprisonment when Duterte launched talks with the communists last year.

Among the NDF consultants issued safe conduct passes were party leaders Wilma and Benito Tiamzon, Adelberto Silva, Alfredo Mapano, Tirso Alcantara, Pedro Codaste, Porferio Tuna, Concha Araneta-Bocala, Ernesto Lorenza, Eduardo Ganelsa, Ariel Arbitario, Runel Saluta, Jaime Solidad, Keneddy Bangibang and Alan Jazmines.

Lack of sincerity In a statement on Friday, Palace spokesman Harry Roque said Duterte signed Proclamation 360 on Thursday afternoon and directed the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process and the government peace panel to cancel peace negotiations with the CPP-NPA-NDF. “While we agreed to resume peace talks with the aforementioned group and exerted our best efforts to accelerate the signing and implementation of the final peace agreement, the NDF-CPPNPA has engaged in acts of violence and hostilities,” he said.

According to Roque, Duterte had always wanted the talks to continue, but the communist group “failed to show their sincerity.”

“We find it unfortunate that their members have failed to show their sincerity and commitment in pursuing genuine and meaningful peaceful negotiations,” Roque said.

“The president, as we all know, has always wanted to leave a legacy of peace under his administration. He has, in fact, walked the extra mile for peace. Rest assured that he will continuously pray that we may all find the peace that we seek for our beloved country in the fullness of God’s time,” he added.

CPP founder Jose Maria Sison earlier accused Duterte of being the top terrorist in the Philippines, saying the latter was responsible for the “mass murder” of drug suspects, among others.

Over the weekend, the president said he was no longer inclined to resume peace talks with the communist group, whose members he branded as “terrorists” and “criminals.” n

2017-112, which created a system of anonymous reporting of suspected criminals Lawyer Joel Butuyan, who represents another group of petitioners, told SC that it was easy to be included but hard to be removed from the list of drug suspects.

Butuyan, representing the families of 35 victims of antidrug operations carried out by the Manila Police District Station 6 at San Andres Bukid, cited that his clients tried to clear their names but the “police are not allowing them.”

Far from the claim of the police, figures from human rights group say now about 14,000 have been killed since Duterte launched the campaign.

“Never in our history as a people has it happened that state agents, our police, admitted to being responsible for thousands

of civilian killings and never in our history as a country has thousands of killings been justified on the basis of a government circular,” Butuyan added.

On Tuesday, November 28, key officials in Duterte’s drug war will have their turn to defend the campaign before the high court.

The SC has ordered PNP Chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa and Interior officer-incharge Catalino Cuy to appear during the next week’s hearing.

Also summoned were Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Chief Aaron Aquino; Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) officer-in-charge Jose Marlowe Pedregosa; National Police Commission (Napolcom) Chief Atty.

Rogelio Casurao; and PNP’s Internal Affairs Service (IAS) Inspector General Alfegard Triambulo. n

Screengrabbed from Sen. Manny Pacquiao’s Twitter account

Pacquiao luring McGregor to boxing match in 2018?

IS Manny Pacquiao hinting at a boxing fight with UFC star Conor McGregor?

Pacquiao on Thursday, Nov. 23, tweeted a photo of McGregor for Thanksgiving with the interesting hashtags “#realboxingmatch” and “#2018”.

The eight-division world champion is the second boxer this month to challenge McGregor.

Earlier, Oscar Dela Hoya said he is willing to come out of retirement

to fight the UFC star, even saying he can KO him in two rounds.

McGregor had his first boxing match earlier this year against Floyd Mayweather Jr. The match, dubbed as “The Biggest Fight in Combat Sports History,” ended in nine rounds in favor of Mayweather.

Pacquiao, meanwhile, suffered a controversial loss to Australian boxer Jeff Horn last July and hasn’t fought since. (Philstar.com)

Dateline USa

A november 25-28, 2017 • LA WeeKenD ASIAn JoUrnAL

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Getting Clarkson to play for Gilas a ‘complicated’ matter Terror attacks kill 25,000

by Denison

Rey A. DAlupAng Philstar.com

THERE has long been a clamor for Los Angeles Lakers’ Jordan Clarkson to don the Philippine tricolors.

But it’s easier said than done, according to Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes.

“I’m getting a lot of questions regarding Jordan Clarkson,” Reyes said during the Smart-Gilas Pilipinas’ send-off on Saturday in Ortigas. “Jordan is there.

in 2016 — UN report

I just want everyone to understand that it is not as simple as Clarkson wanting to play and us wanting to be here.”

“There is also the matter of Los Angeles Lakers and the National Basketball Association.”

Gilas first toyed with the idea of tapping Clarkson in 2011.

After joining a couple of practices with the national team mid-2015, he was eventually left out from the lineup for the FIBA Asia Championship in China.

“As you can notice, Team USA

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OVER 25,000 people died and 33,000 injured in at least 11,000 terrorist attacks in more than 100 countries last year, according to the United Nations.

Terrorists are losing physical ground in Syria and Iraq, but gaining virtual ground in cyberspace such as Facebook, Microsoft, Twitter and YouTube, the UN said.

“Terrorism is fundamentally the denial and destruction of human rights,” UN Secretary General António Guterres said.

“Terrorism has been unfortunately with us in various forms across ages and continents,” Guterres declared. “But modern terrorism is being waged on an entirely different scale, and notably its geographic span. No country can claim to be immune.”

In 2016, nearly three-quarters of all deaths caused by terrorism were in five states – Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Nigeria and Somalia.

The global economic impact

of terrorism is estimated to have reached $90 billion in 2015. That year, terrorism costs amounted to 17.3 percent of gross domestic product in Iraq and 16.8 percent in Afghanistan.

Recalling how the Magna Carta established the principle of the rule of law 800 years ago, Guterres said human rights are a true recognition of common humanity.

“When we protect human rights, we are tackling the root causes of terrorism. For the power of human rights to bond is stronger than the power of terrorism to divide,” he said.

He stressed the need for stronger international cooperation, announcing that he intends to convene the first-ever UN summit of heads of counterterrorism agencies next year to forge new partnerships and build relationships of trust.

Guterres said focus on prevention, which includes addressing the factors that radicalize young people and make terrorism a fateful option for them, should be another important priority. n

ful, Inclusive, Resilient, Healthy, and Harmonious Society.

“The Philippines concluded its chairmanship on November 14, 2017 at the ASEAN summit and formally turned over the 2018 ASEAN chairmanship to the Republic of Singapore,” said Cruz.

Officially taking over the rotating ASEAN chairmanship was Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong who said ‘resilience and innovation’ would be the focus of Singapore’s yearlong chairmanship.

“The commitment of the Philippines to ASEAN will re-

main steadfast and resolute for the realization of ASEAN’s share of aspirations,” Cruz added. “The Philippines will remain committed to building a strong and resilient ASEAN community.”

The 50th Founding Anniversary celebration in Los Angeles concluded with the sharing of cultural foods from the different countries, and cultural dance presentations choreographed by Baghawan Ciptoning for Indonesia, Maruko Myint and company for Myanmar, and Kayamanan ng Lahi representing the Philippines.

(Rae Ann Varona/AJPress)

Philstar.com

Gilas Pilipinas head coach Chot Reyes during the national team’s send-off. Inset photo shows Jordan Clarkson of the Los Angeles Lakers during his visit in the Philippines in 2015.

Philstar.com photos

has just released their lineup last week and there are no NBA players,” Reyes offered. “Not one. So that means the league didn’t allow any of their players to play in the World Cup qualifiers.”

“I just want you to know why Jordan is not here. So that’s the rundown regarding the national players,” the multi-time Gilas mentor said.

The national team left for To-

kyo, Japan on Tuesday, Nov. 21. They take on the Japanese on Novemver 24 for their first match in the first window of the FIBA World Cup Asian qualifiers.

Gilas is set to return immediately to the capital for their second tussle on November 27 against Chinese-Taipei.

Each region stakes six slots in the global skirmish which will be on Aug. 31, 2019, in China. n

LA Consulates General of ASEAN celebrate...

PAGE A3 t and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers” adopted in January 2007 in Cebu.

The consensus was acknowledged as progress towards better protection of migrant workers through provisions such as prohibiting the confiscation of passports, or prohibiting the exploitation of workers through excessive recruitment or placement fees.

Other commitments from the summit were: the ASEAN Declaration to Prevent and Combat

Cyber Crime, the ASEAN Declaration on Innovation, the ASEAN Action Agenda on Mainstreaming Women’s Empowerment (WEE) in ASEAN, the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Disaster Health Management, the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Fighting All Forms of Malnutrition, the ASEAN Declaration on The Adoption of The ASEAN Youth Development Index, and the ASEAN Declaration on Culture of Prevention for a Peace-

8 rescued from US Navy aircraft crash...

PAGE A4 t

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miral then commanded a fleetwide review of training and seamanship in the Pacific.

Republican Senator John McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee who also served as a U.S. Navy pilot during the Vietnam War, said last Tuesday during a hearing for Defense Department nominees that the Navy was overworking its workforce. He added that more tragic incidents would take

place if changes weren’t made.

“I look you in the eye and tell you a 100-hour work week is too long for a young member of our Armed Forces,” said McCain. “The department is struggling to make do with budgets that are too small, unpredictable and driven by politics rather than strategy.”

“Something’s got to change. I don’t like looking at those mothers whose children’s deaths could have been prevented. This

is a serious issue. It’s pretty obvious, according to the chief of naval operations, that this could have been prevented. And Congress is also complicit in this almost criminal behavior.”

On Wednesday morning, U.S time, McCain tweeted, “Praying for all involved in @USNavy aircraft crash as search & rescue efforts continue. The Senate Armed Service Committee is closely monitoring the ongoing investigation to determine why

this happened.”

According to the Navy, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed fleets with around 50-70 ships and submarines, 140 aircraft, and roughly 20,000 sailors at any given time.

The Fleet’s area of operation covers 38 maritime countries and 50-percent of the world’s population including five U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty Allies being the Philippines, Australia, the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Thailand. n

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOvEmbER 25-28, 2017

Dateline PhiliPPines

A

Pacquiao mulls quitting politics 8 of 10 millennials like Duterte’s

style of leadership—online survey

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PHILIPPINE Senator Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday, Nov. 21 admitted that thoughts of resigning from politics have been crossing his mind.

In a press briefing at the Senate, Pacquiao expressed dismay toward “destabilizers” and politicians with “hidden agenda[s],” saying such feelings have made him ponder if he will still seek a new government post after his term ends in 2022.

“If you would ask me right now about politics, I feel like getting dismayed, discouraged. I’m thinking about quitting, like—so this is politics? Because I don’t know how to play politics. Whichever is correct, whichever I think is right for the nation, that’s what I will push for,” the senator told reporters in Filipino.

He added, “I discovered a lot when I joined politics—things that you wouldn’t know whether it’s true or not. A lot of them are concealing behind a different appearance.”

Pacquiao, more globally known for his boxing career, was elected as Sarangani Representative in 2010. In 2016, he was elected as a member of the Senate.

Asked about his chances of

by JoVic yee ManilaTimes.net

Sen. Manny Pacquiao shakes hands with H.Hendri Zainuddin, S.Ag.,S.H., head of the Delegation of the Ethics Council of the House of Regional Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia, at the Senate in Pasay City on Monday, November 20.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

running in the next election, Pacquiao responded, “You know, I told my wife [Jinkee] that I wanted to resign. But if I quit, who will be left with a heart? Who will provide real service?”

The senator said he was displeased by politicians who pretend to help the poor but have “hidden agenda[s].” He also expressed disappointment toward personalities who try to “destabilize” the government. But when asked whom he was referring to, the senator refused to cite specific names.

Concerning the possibility of running next for presidency, the

neophyte senator said he is looking to God for guidance.

“If I continue my career in politics, whatever responsibility God bestows on me, I will accept,” Pacquiao remarked.

According to him, many have aspired to become the chief executive of the country but “it is impossible to become president without the approval from God.” “There have been a lot of strong people who wanted to become the president. Many have potentials, yet God did not approve. No one can become the president but those whom the Lord anoints,” he added. n

Ernesto Abella to head DFA strategic communications

by Patricia LourDeS Philstar.com

Viray

MANILA — Former Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella will take charge of strategic communications of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Abella, who served as Palace spokesperson from July 2016 until Oct. 27, 2017, was recently appointed as undersecretary of the DFA. DFA secretary Alan Peter Cayetano welcomed the appointment of Abella to the agency.

“As head of strategic communications, which is among the duties he will be assigned to, Undersecretary Abella can be expected to help us more effectively articulate President Duterte’s foreign policy and his directive to serve and protect the millions of kababayan OFWs we have abroad,” Cayetano said in a statement.

In this Oct. 28, 2017, then presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella and then Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano chat before the start of a press briefing at Malacañang.

Malacañang photo

Cayetano added that Abella would serve as an asset to the DFA as “there is much work to be done in the international community.”

The Duterte administration has been pushing for an independent foreign policy, which is mandated

by the 1987 Constitution.

Since Duterte took office, the Philippines has developed closer ties with China despite maritime disputes over the South China Sea while moving away from the U.S., the country’s long-time ally. n

A RECENT poll showed that eight out of 10 millennials not only approve of President Rodrigo Duterte’s handling of his job, but also expressed optimism that the best is yet to come for the country.

In Publicus Asia Inc.’s “Pahayag” online poll released on Friday, it showed that 82 percent of millennials, or those aged 18 to 36, approve of Duterte’s nearly two-year performance as president. His approval rating was highest in the Mindanao region with 94 percent.

The survey, conducted from Nov. 5 to 12 and used a non-probability sampling method on 1,200 respondents, was produced by the political management firm to establish a baseline for Filipino millennials on their brand of politics, economics, media habit, lifestyle choices and socio-political engagement.

Amid the criticisms hurled at the administration, the survey showed that a big majority of millennials still feel good about Duterte, said Publicus founder and CEO Malou Tiquia.

According to Tiquia, 74 percent of millennials said that Duterte makes them feel “optimistic,” while 71 percent said that he makes them “feel proud.” Only 16 percent said that they are “disappointed” with the President and another 11 percent said that he makes them “feel angry.”

They also see Mr. Duterte as someone who “represents change” (72 percent), a nationalist (69 percent), and believe that his “policy of no-frills lifestyle for public officials should be praised,” (68 percent).

Tiquia noted that millennials are optimistic of the country’s future, with eight out of 10 millennials saying that the Philippines’ “best years are ahead of us.”

Millennials are also not that concerned with Duterte’s crude language and unrefined behavior.

Sixty-five percent of millennials agreed that the President’s “unbridled tongue or crude language is natural and honest.”

They also agreed (71 percent)

that his “folksy ways is natural and honest.”

Lilibet Amatong, Publicus’ co-founder, said that despite the millennials acceptance of the President’s behavior, this doesn’t necessarily follow that

they share the same values as those espoused by Duterte.

She added that this can only mean that millennials “perceive this attitude as what we need in the leadership.”

u PAGE A10

A8 NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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OPINION

FEATURES

A law to cut red tape

WITH President Rodrigo Duterte often saying that he detests corruption and wants red tape eradicated, his congressional allies should speed up the passage of a measure that aims to make it easier to do business in the country.

The House of Representatives recently gave a unanimous formal nod to Bill 6579. Among other things, the measure aims to reduce processing time for business permits and other documents to one working day for barangay units, and three working days for other local government offices as well as national agencies. For “complex” issuances, the processing time will be from 10 to 30 working days.

The bill, approved on third and final reading, also aims to create an Ease of Doing Business Commission, to be headed by government officials and with representatives from micro, small, medium and big business enterprises. All local and national agencies will be required to post in their offices and on their websites the requirements and detailed procedures for securing permits, licenses, clearances and other official documents. Government agencies are advised to set up one-stop

shops for such issuances.

The measure is long overdue and will likely be signed into law soon. But the problem, as in most of the laws in this country, is sure to be enforcement.

For violators, the House bill proposes penalties ranging from suspension without pay to dismissal and permanent disqualification from holding public office as well as the forfeiture of benefits. Penalizing violators should not remain a best-efforts pledge.

Another likely problem is that investigation and the resolution of complaints will follow the agonizingly slow pace of the country’s notoriously inefficient criminal justice system. Seeing no one suffering the penalties of breaking the law, bureaucrats who thrive on red tape will have little incentive to mend their ways. This measure will work best only if it is matched by similar reforms in the justice system. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Fil-Ams break up with turkey this Thanksgiving

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THANKSGIVING dinner’s star in America is the roast turkey carving. Like most Filipinos in America, I felt so very much part of American culture and tradition when I roasted my family’s first turkey during our first Thanksgiving celebration in America, some 16 years ago.

I served it complete with all the traditional fixings and side dishes — mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, green beans, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce,

and pumpkin pie for dessert.

Every year this has been a tradition in our family until this year’s celebration. My husband and I looked at each other in the eye and became real and authentic with what we really feel in the past 16 years — we both have never ever really enjoyed eating turkey with its bland taste and weird texture.

We both never had the gastronomic satisfaction of eating this bird and all that motivated us in serving this meal is the American tradition.

Yes, the turkey dinner looks so good and photogenic, great for posting on Facebook and

Instagram, but this is just not us. Now we realize we do not need to pretend we love the turkey dinner to feel being part of this adoptive country that we now call home. The truth is: we are now American citizens who have been raising our family in the United States for almost two decades now. We do not need the tasteless turkey spread to validate that. It is time to be real.

We are breaking up with turkey during Thanksgiving beginning next year.

Looking at posts of friends on social media, I am pleasantly surprised my husband and I are not alone. Now I see a lot

Mon David’s integrity of heart in his Mark Murphy’s tribute

Rhizomes

PROSY ABARQUEZDELACRUZ, J.D.

of kababayans turning to our traditional comfort and fiesta fare to celebrate Thanksgiving — lechon, kare kare, adobo, nilagang bulalo, crispy pata, lechon manok, caldereta, menudo, Filipino spaghetti, pancit bihon/canton, lumpia, sugpo, alimango, laing, latok, buko salad, leche flan, ube, and more.

It feels liberating to come to terms with this realization and acceptance of who we are. We do not have to pretend to enjoy eating turkey just because it is very American. The truth is — America is a nation of immigrants. Turkey may have been what was available during the

Peace Maker

times of the early immigrants of America but that was their time.

We now live in a different time and we have our own cuisine that we enjoy eating especially during Thanksgiving — the time of the year when Americans gather together with family and be grateful for all the graces we have been blessed with. Part of that is who we are as immigrants, our unique attributes, culture and heritage that we bring with us as we built our new life in America. That includes our delicious food that reflects our heart, soul, and tummies as Filipinos in America. We, in fact,

Mark Winkler doing a duet of Stay Hip with Mon David

Mon David with Cathy Segal-Garcia

was known for his use of vocalese and improvisations with both melody and lyrics. Murphy was the recipient of the six Grammy award nominations for best Vocal Jazz performance. He was a prolific singer with published albums, almost successively each year, from 1956 to 2017.

David’s repertoire included these songs and he provided extensive notes for the readers: “‘Boplicity (Bebop Lives!),’ is a jazz classic written by Miles Davis with the vocal version closely linked to Mark Murphy. ‘Stolen Moments’ is an Oliver Nelson classic with lyrics by Murphy and this is his most known piece.

‘Beauty and the Beast’ was written by Wayne Shorter with the poem and lyrics by Murphy.”

David eloquently delivers

Photos by Rick Gavino

them, with the opening line, “We see the world through faulty eyes.”

He wrote to me: “‘Milestones’ is another instrumental jazz favorite written by Miles Davis and made famous by Murphy’s interpretation. He did his own improvisation and added words, based on Steve Job’s philosophies, while retaining some of the original lyrics. “‘Ballad of the Sad Young Men’ was written by Tom Wolf and Fran Landesman and was first recorded by Mark Murphy.

The repertoire is 80 percent inspired by Mark’s spirit, artistry and vision. and I thought it would be good to include a bit of varied spices like our very own classic ‘Minamahal, Sinasamba’

u PAGE A9

MORE than ever, perhaps the time has now come for President Rodrigo Duterte to initiate and expedite the convening of a “Global Anti-Drugs Summit” in Manila to help address the narcotics crisis in the country which is also a raging global problem.

This way, we could let the Filipino people fully understand that the drug crisis at home is not just a domestic problem but indeed a deadly worldwide scourge.

Parents and their families, universities, civil societies, and media all over the world would heartily welcome and support such a global gathering and agree with governments and concerned public agencies in mobilizing to defeat the deadly narcotics syndicates operating in most cities of the world.

Their members and agents, at home and overseas, must be pursued and punished severely but the less guilty in their midst must also be accorded the benefit of rehabilitation.

We were invited to a dinner last week organized by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairperson Andrea Domingo, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Chairman Gen. Dionisio Santiago, Malacañan Undersecretary Dale Cabrera, Columnist and PAGCOR Director Chit Pedrosa and other officials of related agencies to consider our proposal for a Global Summit, and who unanimously agreed that the time for such a meeting is now urgent, and that they would urge the President to give the go-signal for an Inter-Agency Team to plan and set the date for the Summit in Manila to address the Philippine problem and work as well with anti-drug leaders and organizations in the global community.

The drug crisis in Metro Ma-

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

More than ever, the need for a global anti-drugs summit

JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.

[Disclosure: The writer is a wedding godmother to Nicole and Jake Yalong.]

“The process is the person.

And if you do not allow the dictates of formula to rule over you, your Indio-genius blossoms.”

– Kidlat Tahimik to Randolph David, in his book, “Silence,” co-authored with Jaime Zobel, 2004.

MON David’s November 9 concert was his tribute to Mark Murphy.

“Before Mark Murphy transitioned to a peaceful place,” David said, “I did an arrangement and wanted to submit it to Mark.

Who knows he might be up there now, listening to this Glenn Miller piece, ‘Moonlight Serenade.’”

Onstage, David was accompanied by an A-list band: Andy Langham, who deftly played the piano, receding at times, to give Mon the almost full measure of the sound space; Abe Lagrimas, Jr., both a drummer and ukulele player, with fans swooning in China and Hawaii, and Dominic Thiroux on bass, who mesmerized us with his solos.

David elaborated on his intentions for this tribute, saying, “Mark Murphy was all about beauty, truth and honesty and throughout his entire career, he never wavered in his vision – always taking music to its highest creative level, whether through the quality of the pieces he chooses to interpret or through their lyrics and arrangements.

Any song that reflects his life experiences and consciousness he renders in his own unique, creative fearless ways. He was a beautiful risk-taker in his approach, always finding new and fresh ways to express his emotions and I can relate to that very much.”

Wikipedia described Murphy as an NY-based jazz singer who

enrich the culture of America as we take part in sharing this with our fellow Americans.

So what to do with the leftover turkey? I will cook sopas, turkey pot pie and pasta —para walang sayang (so there’s no waste).

But next year, I will cook what we really want to dine and wine with. What a great authentic Thanksgiving that will really be! ***

Jose de Venecia Jr., Special Envoy for InterCultural Dialogue

nila and various parts of the country has triggered an outcry in civil society and the religious community, with widespread coverage in multi-media and accusations of occasional police abuse aired at home and abroad, inspite of President Duterte’s genuine antidrugs crusade.

But his determined and bona fide efforts backed by national police are at times unfortunately undermined by occasional reports of extra-judicial killings by a few but apparently unpunished policemen or by unidentified killers.

On another note, at our next meeting with the Inter-Agency Group led by Andrea Domingo, we hope to inform her that we plan to invite the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), based in Seoul, with its more than 300 ruling, opposition and independent member political parties, and the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), based in New York, representing international parliamentarians to perhaps extend their support to the Philippine initiative once it is launched. The IAPP is composed of many current and former members of parliament, from

some 100 national legislative bodies in Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas and Australia. We are fortunate to be Chairman of ICAPP and Co-Chairman of IAPP, based in Washington, D.C., the latter, with former U.S. congressional leader Dan Burton as CoChairman.

The Universal Peace Federation (UPF), based in New York City, under the leadership of its founder Madame Hak Ja Han Moon and its American President Thomas Walsh, with UPF’s more than 100 branches worldwide, and its U.S. affiliate, Washington Times, might also be interested to join and support a genuine worldwide anti-narcotics crusade, once organized and launched. UPF has more than 30,000 members in the Philippines under its President Julius Malicdem.

In our earlier column, we recalled that we met in Mexico City a few years ago with Mexico’s then newly elected President Enrique Peña Nieto in our capacity then as Election Observers in the presidential elections there, together with our ICAPP Secretary General Korean Chung Eui-yong, with our Latin-American friend, Gustavo Carvajal Moreno, former Mexican Speaker of Parliament, who unfortunately recently passed away. The Mexican President-elect expressed interest then in a global summit either in Manila or Mexico City, because of the continuing flow even today of illegal drugs to the U.S. market, through his country.

Indeed, at that time many realized that efforts to make trafficking more difficult in one locality—one region—or even one continent—simply shift trafficking to another venue. We were informed that the escalation of counter-narcotic campaigns in Mexico and Central America had been driving Latin-American traffickers to use West Africa to

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Mon David’s integrity of heart in...

OPINION & FEATURES

PAGE A8 t

(Beloved, Adored) by Tito Arevalo.

“Sometimes Murphy would use his voice as another instrument like the sax or trumpet but always retaining that ‘in the moment’ quality. I consider him one of my inspirations along with Bill Evans, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk…his artistic range is so wide just like his voice.”

Looking at the mirror: David sees his heart Jazz critic Roger Crane described David as “like Mark Murphy, whose singing he, at times, resembles. Mon David can swing you into bad health and then, turn around and break your heart with a ballad.”

Don Heckmann of the International Review of Music describes David as “a rarity; a male jazz vocalist with a distinctly original style of his own – a remarkable voice able to leap octaves in a single bound, combined with a world-class scat singing style.”

Mark Winkler, a song composer, asserted that David is the best male jazz vocalist. Wearing a dark navy blue suit, David’s radiance is palpable onstage.

Winkler and David sang Winkler’s “Stay Hip,” and the lyrics resonated: “One Note played in the silence can be symphony/ Stay True, Stay young, Stay hip,” while they playfully danced.

Winkler also co-wrote “Land of the Loving” with David Benoit, recorded by Diane Reeves and later sung by Lea Salonga.

It made for an upbeat moment, along with David’s duet with Cathy Segal-Garcia of “Desafinado” by Antonio Carlos Brasileiro de Almeida Jobim, aka Tom Jobim, to Bossa Nova tunes. David got Segal-Garcia quite relaxed by sensitively asking her first, “What Key?” and they sang, not the standard F, but E flat key.

Their smooth interplay of

Mark Murphy with Mon David, in 1999

words in Tagalog and English and scatting were quite enjoyable that we wished they could have done another song.

I loved this part, “What you don’t know, nor even forsee/Is that those who sing out of tune also have a heart/I took a picture of you with my Rollei-Flex/It exposed your huge ingratitude.” It made me recall my ingratitude toward a female singer who bravely sang to show support for suicide prevention, but missed her high notes.

Tonight, only love and gratitude prevailed, mostly to God’s perfect timing.

Indio-Genius in the David’s family Indio-genius is another word for Sariling Dwende, Lorca’s term for the creative force in every man, writes Randolph David in “Silence” (2004). That creative force has animated every David concert, including his two children, Carlo and Nicole.

Two days before David’s 64th birthday, one saw tears from him, about to stream down, yet he did not fully let go, when he sang “That’s What God Looks

Nicole David Yalong with Andy Langham, Dominic Thiroux and Abe Lagrimas, Jr. Photo by Rick Gavino

Photo courtesy of Nicole David Yalong

Like to Me,” composed by Lan O Kun and words by Lois Irwin.

David attributed his composure to the influence of Aurelio Estanislaus (his voice teacher and mentor at the University of the Philippines’ College of Music).

When David sang “One day as I walked with my son hand in hand/ He said, there are things that I don’t understand/How high is the sky? What makes it so blue?/And tell me, dad, what does God look like to you?” I could feel him personally singing to Paolo (in the audience), and Carlo (expected to arrive from the Philippines the next day).

David’s singing these lyrics resonated well: “His heart like a mountain so vast and so strong/ That’s why all his children have room to belong/ His smile is the morning we waken to see/But you, my son, you are what God really looks like to me.”

Unbeknownst to the audience, Carlo David won the Grand Prize as the best Song Writer of the ASOP (A Song of Praise) Competition, with his original composition, “Dahil Sa Iyo,” on November 13.

Jungee Marcelo, a judge, critiqued Carlo’s composition during the April 2017’s semi-finals.

“It is very up and about, joyful, masaya, uncommon style, thanksgiving and gives credit to the One who gave you everything. I like the imagery, naglalakbay, journey, asking the Lord as you reflect, and consider cause and effect in song writing. I wished I was the one who wrote this song [of Carlo David],” Marcelo said.

Judges Trina Belamide, found the rock aspects unique and

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017

A9

A10 november 25-28, 2017 • LA WeeKenD ASIAn JoUrnAL

Dateline PhiliPPines

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Ombudsman unfazed amid looming impeachment rap

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio morales remained unfazed by reports of looming impeachment complaints against her.

“Everybody is at liberty to file any complaint against anybody including me,” morales told reporters on Wednesday, nov. 22, when asked to comment the reported impeachment complaint to be soon filed against her by the Volunteers against Crime

and Corruption (VaCC).

Earlier, Ferdinand Topacio of the VaCC said their group would file an impeachment complaint against morales this week before the House of Representatives.

Topacio cited morales’ supposed “inordinate delays” in conducting an investigation on several complaints, which according to him, resulted in the dismissal of several high-profile cases before the sandiganbayan.

In addition, Topacio said their

complaint would also cover the Ombudsman’s alleged partiality on her office’s investigation into the botched mamasapano incident that led to the deaths of 44 members of the special action Forces (saF).

Topacio claimed that the Ombudsman rushed her filing of graft and usurpation cases against former President benigno aquino III to block the graver charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicides. some families of the saF 44 accused the Ombudsman of downgrading the case when she junked their complaint about reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicides against aquino due to the “lack of probable cause.”

Topacio, who also serves as the legal counsel of the saF families, said some congressmen already expressed intent to endorse their impeachment complaints against morales, especially when President Rodrigo duterte called for her impeachment.

“We are garnering more and more support in the lower house… We have two or three already confirmed,” Topacio said last week. a complaint needs the endorsement of at least one congressman before it can be heard by the House of Representatives.

Earlier in October, duterte said he will file an impeachment complaint against morales for her supposed selective justice. asked about the allegations against her, morales only said: “no comment, I go by the evidence.” morales likewise declined to comment when asked on the status of her office’s investigation on the alleged unexplained wealth of President Rodrigo duterte and his family.

“I have inhibited myself there and I wouldn’t know its status,” the Ombudsman reiterated. morales previously said she has inhibited herself from acting on any case filed against the duterte family as her nephew, lawyer manases Carpio, is married to duterte’s daughter, davao City mayor sara duterteCarpio. she instead authorized deputy Ombudsman arthur Carandang Carandang to investigate the bank transactions of the duterte family based on senator antonio Trillanes’ complaint. The senator has accused the president and his family of having billions of illegally amassed wealth. n

A GATHERING OF MAYORS. President Rodrigo Duterte poses for a photo with the Mayors who joined the 65th League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) General Assembly at the Shangri-La at the Fort, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City onTuesday, November 21.

Malacañang photo by Richard Madelo

Groups to hold Nov 30 rally against ‘revgov’

by MaRy

GLeefeR JaLea ManilaTimes.net

militant groups merged on Friday, nov. 24, to urge Filipinos to join a nationwide rally on november 30 to reject President Rodrigo duterte’s alleged plan of declaring a “revolutionary government.”

Kilusang mayo uno (Kmu) and bagong alyansang makabayan (bayan) said thousands of workers and members of other sectors are expected to converge at Liwasang bonifacio as early as 11 a.m.and march to mendiola to hold a program that will also commemorate the birth anniversary of Filipino revolutionary leader andres bonifacio.

“Our anti-dictatorship action on november 30 becomes necessary and urgent. We invite all freedom loving Filipinos to join us on that day in rejecting duterte’s looming dictatorship. In the spirit of bonifacio’s revolution, let us persevere in the struggle for genuine

freedom and democracy,” bayan and Kmu said.

The President recently said that he would initiate a “crackdown” against bayan for allegedly uniting with communist rebels to destabilize the government.

The group, however, denied the allegation. bayan’s Teddy Casino said that a declaration of a revolutionary government would only serve as a threat to the executive, legislative and judiciary powers of the administration. ”The threats against Chief Justice sereno, the Ombudsman, intensified military operations, the crackdown on the opposition — all of that are elements of a fascist dictatorship, this is only a ploy to violate rights, continue the drug war and enforce economic policies that will benefit the allies of the President,” Casino said.

The two groups are among the vocal critics of the duterte

administration on several issues including delays in the resumption of peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-new People’s army-national democratic Front (CPPnPa-ndF).

Palace spokesman Harry Roque said that duterte had signed Proclamation 360 on Thursday afternoon and directed the Office of the Presidential adviser on the Peace Process (OPaPP) and the government peace panel to cancel peace negotiations with the communist group.

Over the weekend, the President also declared that he was no longer inclined to resume peace talks with the communist group, whose members he branded as “terrorists” and “criminals.”

“With his termination of the peace talks with the ndF and his constant hype for a ‘revolutionary government’, duterte is rapidly establishing his fascist dictatorship,” the Kmu added. n

Ombudsman: Evidence vs Jinggoy strong

by Reina Leanne

ToLenTino ManilaTimes.net

THE Office of the Ombudsman is confident of the cases it had filed before the anti-graft court sandiganbayan in connection with the Priority development assistance Fund (PdaF) or pork barrel scam, despite the grant of bail to former sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada.

“We are confident, we have never been more confident about the evidence that we have,” Ombudsman Conchita Carpio morales told reporters in a chance interview on Wednesday after delivering a speech at the university of santo Tomas.

The sandiganbayan’s special Fifth division, in a resolution promulgated on november 10, maintained its grant of bail to Estrada despite the plunder case he is facing. asked on the court’s affirmation of the grant of the bail to Estrada, morales said “the lens of the court, the sandiganbayan is different from our lens…”

“Well the panel of investigators and prosecutors are still meeting on the matter,” she said when asked if the Office of the Ombudsman intends to elevate the matter to the supreme Court.

The sandiganbayan’s Fifth

Former Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada

division conducted bail hearings beginning in July 2014 after Estrada filed a bail petition. In January 2016, the court denied his bail petition, citing strong evidence.

This prompted Estrada to file a motion for reconsideration. In may 2016, the court maintained its ruling that denied his bail petition.

Estrada filed an omnibus motion in september 2016 asking the court to, among others, dismiss the plunder case or grant him bail in light of the high court’s decision, which dismissed for lack of evidence the plunder case that was filed

Philstar.com photo

against former president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria macapagal-arroyo in connection with the alleged misuse of Philippine Charity sweepstakes Office funds during her presidency.

Voting 3-2 in a ruling promulgated on september 15, 2017, the sandiganbayan’s special Fifth division allowed Estrada to post bail over the plunder case but denied his plea for case dismissal. He posted bail on september 16, 2017.

The prosecution filed a motion for reconsideration, but the court denied the motion for lack of merit in a resolution promulgated on november 10. n

8 of 10 millennials like Duterte’s style...

PAGE A7 t

In fact, amatong said that 36 percent of millennials expressed concern that the human rights situation in the country is already a “very serious problem,” while another 38 percent said that it’s a “fairly serious problem.” duterte has repeatedly lambasted human-rights organizations and activists who criticized his administration’s war on drugs which led to the killings of thousands of suspected drug users and peddlers. most millennials described the extrajudicial killings in the country as either “critical” (43 per-

cent) or “serious” (18 percent). It is interesting to note though that despite this figure, 72 percent of millennials are still satisfied with the government’s crackdown on the illegal drug trade. and despite allegations of excesses in implementing the anti-drug campaign, the Philippine national Police (PnP) still enjoyed a “very favorable/mostly favorable” rating of 52 percent.

The PnP previously helmed the administration’s war on drugs before it was stripped of the responsibility due to mounting criticisms on drug-related killings, several of which in-

volved teenagers. duterte, however, said on Wednesday that he would soon return the task from the Philippine drug Enforcement agency to the PnP. amatong said that the administration should take the findings in the poll as an instrument to guide them in setting the country’s policies. she added that since the President’s approval ratings are buoyed by those from mindanao, changes should already be felt in the region by the midterm for duterte to retain the high ratings. n

In this file photo, President Rodrigo Duterte extends his hand to his son Sebastian who showed a gesture of respect to his father during his visit to the resting place of his departed loved ones at the Roman Catholic Public Cemetery in Davao City last November 4.

Malacañang photo

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Dateline PhiliPPines

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOvEmbER 25-28, 2017

A11

DOJ orders probe on Aquino over DAP, pork barrel scam Marawi mayor: P90 billion needed to rebuild city MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation has been tasked with investigating malversation allegations against former President Benigno Aquino III over budget scandals during his administration.

The Department of Justice has ordered the NBI to form a special task force to investigate the alleged anomalies in the Disbursement Acceleration Program and the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF).

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II ordered the investigation into the issues reopened following the submission of supposed evidence by groups led

by Manila Councilor Greco Belgica, a supporter of President Rodrigo Duterte and a candidate for senator in 2013 and 2016.

The NBI was also tasked to look into the complaint Belgica filed against Aquino, former Budget Secretary Florencio Abad and former Budget Undersecretary Mario Relampagos.

In September, Belgica’s coalition of anti-pork barrel groups asked the DOJ to open a fact-finding investigation on the submitted records against Aquino, Abad and Relampagos.

The documents allegedly showed that P6.5 billion from the P144-billion DAP funds of the Aquino administration were allocated to local projects not item-

ized in the budget.

Aguirre earlier hinted that former Sen. Jinggoy Estrada might become, who has admitted receiving extra funding for projects through the DAP, a witness in the investigation into scheme that the Aquino administration said was meant to spur government spending.

Estrada, who made the disclosure about DAP in a privilege speech in 2013, said the extra funding was an incentive for voting to convict impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona.

“I will leave it to the people to create their own conclusion, whether this is true or not,” Estrada said in 2013. “But I can reveal that after the conviction of the former chief justice, those who voted to convict the former chief justice, those who voted to convict were allotted an additional P50 million.”

Estrada voted to convict Corona.

The senator had been granted bail in his plunder case related to the PDAF scam.

In March, the Office of the Ombudsman cleared Aquino in a graft complaint over the DAP but found Abad liable for usurpation of legislative powers.

Since the administrative complaint was filed against Aquino after his term as president, the ombudsman dismissed the charges

by Ian

Former President Benigno Aquino III Philstar.com photo

for lack of jurisdiction.

Relampagos was also cleared because, the ombudsman said, the complaint against him lacked merit.

The Office of the Ombudsman found that by issuing National Budget Circular No. 541, Abad unlawfully encroached on the powers of Congress by effectively modifying the provisions on savings of the 2012 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

“NBC No. 541 provided the principal bases for the withdrawal of unobligated allotments which were declared as savings and used to fund PAPs (programs, activities and projects) under the DAP. The issuance of this circular is an act of usurpation. This is contrary to law,” Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales said. (Patricia Lourdes Viray with reports from Edu Punay/Philstar.com)

More than ever, the need for a global...

PAGE A8 t

smuggle cocaine into Europe.

In recent years, it was reported that the U.S. was already training elite counter-narcotics police in Ghana, while planning similar units in Kenya and Nigeria.

We pointed out that carrying out police measures was not enough. We noted that in the emerging nations, weak states themselves had to be strengthened, and social institutions built up, to prevent trafficking groups from establishing themselves— and turning transit countries into consumer countries.

We said: “Stand-alone national programs can no longer suffice.

The global war on narcotic drugs as in the Philippines—cocaine, heroin and chemical amphetamines—now requires group intelligence and concerted action that only a supranational body focused on resolving the problem can supply.”

We declared then as we declare

today: “The war against narcotics, with its powerful private armies, is not a singular problem of Manila. Indeed, it is an intercontinental problem; it is a global problem.” Thus, our plea for a Global Summit in Manila.

Indeed in Asia, we have serious problems with the large growing of poppies and opium by warlords in Afghanistan (perhaps the biggest grower); in the Golden Triangle along the banks of the Mekong River, in Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, and in the various transhipment points of various countries.

And some of the populous migrant workers of Asia including a few Filipinos are being corrupted to serve as “drug mules”, sometimes condemned to the death penalty or serving long sentences in prison when caught, as witnessed our unfortunate countrywoman presently languishing in Indonesian prison. As in the Caribbean in the 1980’s, poor,

small, vulnerable countries, officials and impoverished citizens have succumbed to and been victimized by dirty money.

At our dinner meeting, we noted that already for a start, while still in the planning stage, Chairperson Domingo and Gen. Santiago and their staff already identified at least sixty (60) global leaders, active in international efforts against narcotics, who might be invited to journey to Manila for the conference, once called.

It is our hope indeed that governments and civil society organizations all over the world would attend the Manila conference once approved and announced, and extend support to the Philippine Government. There will be some critics of the conference because of some of the extra-judicial killings here but we believe overall the conference will be a big-plus for President Duterte and for the Filipino people. n

nIcolas cIgaral Philstar.com

MANILA — A hefty P90 billion is needed to bankroll the restoration of battled-scarred Marawi, the city’s mayor said on Friday, Nov. 24.

Marawi City Mayor Majul Usman Gandamra said the P90 billion emerged from an initial estimate indicated in a “consolidated master plan” that was submitted “several weeks ago.”

“If we will rebuild Marawi, we will not just restore the city.

But of course, we will make it better than it was before,” Gandamra told a press conference in Malacañang.

“And of course, no amount

of money that can compensate what happened in Marawi,” he added.

In a rousing address to troops, President Rodrigo Duterte last month declared Marawi—which was stormed by heavily-armed militants on May 23—liberated from proISIS extremists after two terrorist leaders were killed in a targeted military operation.

Four days after the president’s announcement, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana declared an end to combat operations in the besieged city after five months of intense fighting that left the city in ruins.

Lorenzana earlier said the Budget Department allocated “about

P5 billion” this year for Marawi’s rehabilitation. For 2018, the defense chief said the government is looking into a budget of P10 billion to restore the city.

But according to Gandamra, an initial proposal of at least P30 billion is being considered for the start of Marawi rehabilitation in the first quarter of 2018.

Meanwhile, Gandamra also said the whooping P90 billion is not just for repair of damaged infrastructures and restoration of livelihood in Marawi, but also for the revival of the city’s economic operations.

A total of 70,000 individuals have so far returned to their homes in Marawi, the government said. n

Mon David’s integrity of heart in...

PAGE A9 t laudable, while Mon Del Rosario considered Carlo an advanced songwriter and commended him for the lyrical chorus for easy recall by the listeners.

On Nov. 13, Jay R sung “Dahil Sa Iyo,” Carlo’s original composition, which became the Song of the Year for ASOP 6th Year. The competition finals were watched by 16,500 at the Araneta Coliseum. As if a Thanksgiving gift, God’s perfect timing was spot on.

When Nicole David Yalong joined her father onstage, she said: “I asked my dad what is his blessing and his curse? ‘Jazz,’ he responded.” She credits him as her example of consistency, righteousness, love of family, and sustained professionalism towards his craft.

Nicole, dressed in a sexy black lace outfit, hit her first notes in perfect pitch. Her smooth, velvety voice gently rocked us to a serene, soft spot with Johnny Mandel’s “A Time For Love”: “A time for climbing hills/For leaning out of windowsills/Admiring daffodils above/A time for holding hands together/A time for rainbow colored weather/A time to make believe that we’ve been dreaming of.”

I imagined her breastfeeding her twins, 9-month-old Leo and Nico, both vibrant and thriving under her care, as observed by this writer, on a visit one sunny morning.

Nicole shared how her father took his gentle approach of asking her about the song – did she like it, and in between breastfeeding, changing diapers, catch-

Mon David’s family (the complete set) - First Row: Nicole with Leo (on stroller) and Jake Yalong; Second Row: Mon, Ann, Mika, Joanna Marie, Nico (held by Hanika Oyco); Third Row: Carlo (in white), Paolo holding Noah.

Photo courtesy of Nicole David Yalong

ing up on sleep, nature walks with the twins, cooking, baking, washing dishes, even gym exercises and lifting weights, she learned the lyrics. She took extra steps of posting them on her bedroom wall and kept singing to her twins. Her approach plus her dad’s worked.

David sang Tito Arevalo’s “Minamahal, Sinasamba,” a song of love and courtship to his wife, Ann that many of us, wished for similar romantic gestures from our partners. His public show of affection (PSA) elicited tears from his wife, who was visibly touched, particularly when he declared: “She is my co-pilot in life and as it turns out, a much stronger one than me!”

Happy birthday Mon David — your life speaks loudly about the integrity of your heart!

This Thanksgiving, Nov. 2017, Mon David’s family table

is complete.

From their table to yours, I dare say Happy Thanksgiving to you, our loyal Asian Journal (AJ) readers. This year marks my 10th year of writing this column for AJ, dakal a salamat in Kapampangan, the language of the birth province of Mon David and family. *** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.” She has been writing for AJ Press for 9 years now. She contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Japan, Mexico and 22 national parks in the US, in pursuit of her love for arts.

A12 november 25-28, 2017 • LA WeeKenD ASIAn JoUrnAL

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SHOWBIZ&STYLE

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Journal

Filipino designs take center stage Is Ellen Adarna not allowed to get pregnant? at Miss Universe 2017 pageant

by C.

To shed light on reports about actress ellen adarna carrying the child of fellow â&#x20AC;&#x153;home Sweetie homeâ&#x20AC;? star John lloyd cruz, ellenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manager has spoken to explain the actressâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; side.

Pia campos, ellenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manager, told aBS-cBN entertainment correspondent Mario Dumaual that the actress is â&#x20AC;&#x153;happy and well.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;at the moment, I can assure you that ellen is well and happy. and if there are rumors to be admitted or dispelled, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s her story to tell when she is ready to do so,â&#x20AC;? Pia further stated. ellen and John lloyd flew out of the country because they allegedly violated their endorsement contracts â&#x20AC;&#x201D; John lloyd for alleg-

Mendez Legaspi Philstar.com

Rachel Peters, Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bet at Miss Universe, was ravishing in her Val Taguba gold-flecked, bustier gown. her flawless performance in that round, plus her stunning turn at the swimsuit portion, all but assured her spot among the Top 16 on finals night on Sunday, November 26 at the axis Theater at Planet hollywood in las Vegas.

But Taguba is not the only Filipino designer getting impressive notices for his evening gown creation. another world-class couturier helping three of the delegates move on the finals is leo almodal. almodal is responsible for the gorgeous gown of Miss Guam Myana Welch, Miss Japan Momoko abe and Miss Great Britain anna Maria Burdzy. The designer celebrated in a Facebook post: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Fierce, The Beautiful, The elegant: leo almodal haute couture Muses in the Miss Universe preliminary evening gown competition! cheering for these beautiful women! God bless!â&#x20AC;?

Burdzy, who is gaining fans for

The evening gowns of these Miss Universe 2017 candidates are reportedly designed by Filipino designers.

Photos courtesy of Miss Universe Organization

her beauty and brains, gushed about her red and nude gown: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Up close with my dress. So glad my idea came to life by leo almodal and I was able to wear such an original dress on an incredible night.â&#x20AC;? according to reliable sources, Miss Singapore Manuela Bruntraeger ostensibly borrowed from another Filipino couturier.

Miss Russia Ksenia alexandrova was also supposed to wear an-

other immaculate creation by yet another amazing Filipino designer.

Reigning Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere is also rumored to be wearing a scintillating number when she turns over her crown.

Finals judge Pia Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2015, will also be sure to be clad in Philippine couture, so the obvious big winner in at the 66th Miss Universe is the Filipino designer!

edly breaking his wholesome image for viral videos showing him in drunken behavior, and ellen for being allegedly pregnant, which breaks her covenant with her endorsements that allegedly prohibit her from getting pregnant while the contracts are still in effect.

Philstar.com asked a lawyer if not allowing a person to get pregnant is legal, and the legal counsel, who requested to remain private, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There could be a possible violation against the Magna carta for Women.â&#x20AC;? according to the legal counsel, if the womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nature of work, or endorsements in ellenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, asks her to preserve her body and image, then her employers can â&#x20AC;&#x153;stipulate

Ellen Adarna

Philstar.com photo

for a limited timeâ&#x20AC;? that she avoids pregnancy while the project is still ongoing. (Deni Rose M. AfinidadBernardo/Philstar.com)

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Philstar.com

Philippine bet Mary Eve Adeline Escoto was named Miss Asia Global 2017.

The winning streak of Philippines in international pageants continued as Filipina bet to Miss asia Global 2017 won the pageant title last Tuesday.

Philippine bet Mary eve adeline escoto was named Miss asia Global 2017. The coronation night was held in Kerala, India last Tuesday. She took home a crown and 1 lakh Indian Rupees.

Miss asia Global pageant sought to find the â&#x20AC;&#x153;most beautiful and talented women from the asian regionâ&#x20AC;? organized by the PAGE B3

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B November 25-28, 2017 • LA WeeKeND ASIAN JoUrNAL

Features

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Sylvia Sanchez, Arjo Atayde test mother Pho Saigon 1: Authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the Valley and son relationship in new teleserye LOCAteD in an assuming strip mall in Chatsworth, California, Pho saigon 1 is filled with plenty gustatory surprises. the family behind Pho saigon 1 — which opened nearly five years ago — carries on the recipes from their great-grandmother who had her own restaurant in Vietnam. the menu itself is a few pages long and may be overwhelming for the first-time customer.

However, with quintessential Vietnamese cuisine staples from spring rolls to pho to bún, customers will never leave unsatisfied as portions are substantial and filling.

For starters, the Vietnamese eggrolls are a must. Filled with crab meat, shrimp, pork, mushrooms and vegetables, they have rice paper shells and are deep-fried until they are crispy. they are served alongside lettuce leaves to be wrapped around before dipping into fish sauce. the Filet Mignon Pho is perhaps one of the restaurant’s standout dishes at only $9.95 for a generous serving. For an extra large size — perfect for more than 2 people — it’s only $1 extra. Pho is easy to come by in southern California, but what makes Pho saigon 1’s soup dishes extraordinary is the cooking process to get let the meat’s flavors really emerge in the broth. the filet mignon is thinly sliced, but comes in several generous pieces. When the pho reaches the table, it is served with a fresh plate of bean sprouts, lime, green peppers, and basil leaves.

For those who are not in the mood for soup or want another dish to supplement the experience, the Com Gá sái

Just how far will a mother’s love push her to protect her child’s life? this is the premise of “Hanggang saan,” ABs-CBN’s newest drama series, which will present an unconventional take a mother’s love, while bringing together real-life mother and son sylvia sanchez and Arjo Atayde in their first team-up.

After her remarkable portrayal of the character Gloria in “the Greatest Love,” sanchez portrays sonya, a brave mother who will do anything for her children.

Atayde, meanwhile plays the smart and reliable Paco, a law The stars of ABS-CBN’s “Hanggang Saan”: Arjo Atayde, Sylvia Sanchez and Yves Flores.

ABS-CBN photo student and sonya’s dedicated son. at the show’s press launch. ing Josef, Anna Luna, Mercedes the story will see sonya get“We will shatter the image Cabral, Rubi Rubi, Viveika Rating herself in a perilous situa- of the ideal mother. We will see vanes, sharmaine suarez, Ces tion where she ends up killing an how a person can love another Quesada, Arnold Reyes, Maila innocent man to prolong the life who is extremely flawed,” Atayde Gumila, and Junjun Quintana. of her son. added.

Hanggang saan is under the “sonya will definitely create an Rounding up the cast in this direction of Mervyn Brondial and argument between mothers and powerful drama are teresa Loyza- Jeffrey Jeturian, and premieres on children. she will raise questions ga, sue Ramirez, Ariel Rivera, Monday, November 27 on ABsin mothers like ‘Will I also do what Yves Flores, Maris Racal and CBN’s afternoon block Kapamilya sonya did?’ ‘Did she have to com- Marlo Mortel, as well as Nikko Gold, after “Pusong Ligaw.” (Mamit the crime?’,” sanchez related Natividad, Rommel Padilla, Nand- nilaTimes.net)

Gón (saigon Chicken) is a go-to.

For $8.95, the dish is a whole marinated chicken. the chicken is crisped to perfection but is not too oily or greasy. It comes with a sour dipping sauce that completes the flavors with the rice and side vegetables. the restaurant also prides itself on being friendly for vegetarians and pescetarians as there are options for non-meaters as well. the newest menu additions are the Cajun-spiced seafood such as shrimp, crawfish, oysters and other shellfish. though customers may be full by the end of the meal, finish

off and cleanse the palate with a sweet drink or dessert, such as a Vietnamese coffee frappuccino or grass jelly with coconut milk dish.

For Filipinos, the các loåi ché is a Vietnamese version of halo halo with coconut milk, brown, green and red beans, tapioca and shaved ice.

Pho Saigon 1 is located at 21701 Devonshire St., Suite A, Chatsworth, CA 91311. It is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.To place an order or for more information please call (818) 709-2066 or visit http:// www.phosaigon1.info/.

(Advertising Supplement)

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age gracefully

By Rae

ann VaRona

All hail Sunshine -the new ‘Daytime Drama Queen’

by LhaR

Santiago ManilaTimes.net

suNsHINe Dizon took a very quick trip to the us last week to receive her the Gawad Amerika Award as Outstanding Actress for the highly successful GMA Afternoon Prime series “Ika-6 Na utos.” It is her second time to receive the award, with the first in 2006 for her performance in the original “encantadia.” sitting down with showbuzz before she left, sunshine recalled hearing about the award anew, “I was so surprised! I thought malabo na akong manalo because I was already an awardee, but they said the choice always depends on the performance. I feel so honored to receive this again because it comes from fellow Filipinos in the united states.”

Although sunshine was scheduled to stay in the states for only four days, she was still looking forward to the short getaway.

“I’m not just excited about receiving the award because I’m also looking forward to having some bonding time with my dad.

He’s based in California where I’m going, and I’ll be staying at his house while I’m there.” the reason why sunshine can’t stay long in the u.s0 is because she’s scheduled to go to Japan with a couple of friends. the trip had been scheduled long before

AGreat Pairing:

by Jan

MiLo SeVeRo Philstar.com

Pears & Apples

KAPAMILYA actor Piolo Pascual expressed support for his friend and star Magic co-actor John Lloyd Cruz (JLC), who is rocked by recent intrigues, including the alleged pregnancy of his rumored girlfriend ellen Adarna. “same thing with tin (toni Gonzaga), we only want what’s

Apple Tart. Not only is it loaded with fiber from the pears and apples, but it contains pecans and cinnamon, which are high in antioxidants. It is worth noting that when used in sufficient amounts, cinnamon also has anti-blood-clotting agents and antiinflammatory properties and may help stabilize blood sugar levels. You’ll find fresh pears in season August through February.

In this dessert, I take the recipe for the classic French dessert tarte tatin–with its quercetin-containing apples–and add pears for their copper content and pecans and cinnamon, which are high in antioxidants.

Pear and Apple Tart Serves 6–8 1/2 cup sugar, combined with 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 4 apples (Braeburn, Granny Smith, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and cut in half 2 pears (Bosc), peeled, cored, and cut in half 1/2 lemon, seeds removed 1/2 cup toasted and coarsely chopped pecans 1 9-in. whole-wheat pie crust

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

2. In a cold 8-inch cast-iron skillet, lay 1/2 of the butter pieces, evenly spaced. Sprinkle 1/2 of the sugar mixture over the pan. Lay the fruit, cut side up, over the butter and sugar, covering the entire pan. Pack the fruit tightly to avoid shrinking during cooking.

GMA photo

she won the Gawad Amerika.

“Naka-block na talaga ‘yang dates na ‘yan. We already have our tickets so we have to use them. We’ve also taped advance episodes for ‘Ika-6 Na utos’ so everything’s been arranged.”

When sunshine gets back, she will buckle down to work immediately since she is just as excited to know what will happen in the

Piolo Pascual to John Lloyd Cruz: I got your back

AJPress

BY GRACE O Pears are a fiber super star with 5.5 grams in one medium specimen. Fiber plays an essential role in your digestive, heart, and skin health, and may improve blood sugar control, weight management, and more.

People who ate a diet high in white-fleshed fruits like pears or apples also had a 52 percent lower risk of stroke, according to an American Heart Association study, likely due to their fiber and phytochemical content.

Pears are also rich in potassium, vitamin C and copper. For a delicious and elegant dessert that contains a number of nutritious ingredients, I use pears in my Pear and

Sunshine Dizon

story like the viewers. “the entire cast is always excited every time a new script arrives. Minsan nagugulat din kami sa mga twists and turns ng story. “ With the continued success of Ika-6 Na utos and sunshine’s awards for her performance, the press have started calling her the “Daytime Drama Queen.”

Reacting to the news, she said, “Sa akin kasi, I am very flattered but it’s also kind of scary because I really have to work hard to prove to everyone that I’m worthy of the title.”

“Ika-6 Na utos” is now on its second year and the show just keeps getting better and better. the latest showbuzz heard is that it will continue to air what with many possibilities available for the storyline.

“When we’re on the set and we talk about the story, ang daming nabubuong suggestions. Pag dumarating ang bagong script, tanungan kami kung ano ang mga new developments in the story.”

And whenever people see sunshine, they always ask her what’s going to happen to her character emma—an indication how the show is affecting the viewers.

With ratings rising, there’s no doubt that “Ika-6 na utos” is now a daily habit on Philippine tV.

3. Squeeze the juice from the lemon over the fruit. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 of the sugar mixture over the fruit. Dot with the remaining butter.

4. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fruit mixture until the butter melts and the sugar caramelizes, about 20 minutes. If hot spots develop, rotate the pan but do not stir the fruit.

5. Remove pan from heat and sprinkle the pecans over the fruit.

6. Top with the pie crust, folding edges into the pan so no crust is hanging over. Bake at 425 degrees until the pastry is golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

7. Cool the pie until the caramel thickens without sticking to the pan, about 10 minutes. Turn out onto a plate before cutting and serving.

GRACE O – Combining her passion for food and a commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, GRACE O has created FoodTrients®, a unique program for optimizing wellness. Grace O is a fusion chef with a mission: to cook up recipes for a long and joyful life that are built on a foundation of anti-aging science and her 15 years in the healthcare industry. Visit FoodTrients.com to learn more. Email us at info@FoodTrients.com © 2015 by FoodTrients.com

John lloyd Cruz and Piolo Pascual

the Kapamilya network.

When asked if he will be a permanent replacement for John Lloyd, Piolo said there is still no word from ABs-CBN if he will be a regular cast in the sitcom.

“It’s not for me to say. When they asked me to guest because of the current situation, of course, you know, being an ABs talent and I have a very good relationship with my network, who am I to say no?”

Piolo shared that according to toni, the show’s ratings remain the same and the audience accepts what is happening on the show as the advertisers are still there. “the show has been there for three years kaya may solid na siyang foundation. I’m just there to fill in. ‘Yun lang ang alam ko for now.”

Piolo is also now the face of Mober app, an instant and ondemand platform for same-day delivery solutions at affordable prices. the app aims to provide start-up businesses with safe and cost-effective logistical serABS-CBN photo vices.

best for him. It’s not for us to even comment or say anything about him because that’s his decision.

We’re always gonna be here as a friend, as a brother, as a family.

I’ll protect him as a brother and as a friend,” Piolo said.

Piolo temporarily replaced John Lloyd in JLC’s ABs-CBN sitcom “Home sweetie Home,” in which John Lloyd stars with toni. the blockbuster actor is still in his indefinite leave from

Piolo proud of son Inigo’s performance at Bench show KAPAMILYA actor Inigo Pascual flaunted his abs at the recent Bench under the stars fashion show, making his dad, Piolo, a “proud stage father.”

“Bente anyos kasi ako n’ung pinanganak siya eh. Bente anyos s’ya ngayon. Buti nga wala pa siyang anak eh. Pero y’ung pagpapakitang abs, kung meron ka namang ipapakita, okay lang.

Pero kung wala, itago mo,” Piolo jokingly said in a media interview during the launch of Mober where he is the ambassador.

Piolo also said that he is very happy and excited with the way his son’s career is going.

“I’m so excited for what’s in store for him. Just watched him on ‘AsAP,’ nakita ko talaga how he’s improved a lot. He’s so much better now.” the actor said he is proud for his son as the young Pascual is back in school even though he has a lot of showbiz commitments.

“Kahit kulang ang tulog niya, nag-aaral pa rin tapos dire-diretso pa rin yung mga work niya. Masipag na bata.”

During Inigo’s upcoming thanksgiving concert “Dahil sa’yo” on December 1, he wanted Piolo to guest in his concert, but his father said “no” because his father wants Inigo to have his own identity. “even the management naman, star Magic, has been trying to avoid us being together and being associated to each other because we want him to have his own identity, but for sure I’m gonna be there. Parang he’s gonna stand on his own. He’s a better artist than me. ‘Di na ko kailangan dun. I’m just gonna watch him.”

On Inigo’s love life, Piolo said Inigo can do whatever he wants.

“Bahala siya. Magre-react lang siguro ko kung hindi na tama ‘yung ginagawa n’ya. He’s in an age wherein, in the point of his life, na I don’t think he’s gonna be serious, even if he got serious to anyone, that’s not for me siguro to make pakialam or anything because for me, lalaki naman ‘yung Singer and actor Inigo Pascual showed his wellbata eh. ‘Di mo siya pwedeng sculpted abs during the recent Bench Under the i-baby.” (Philstar.com) Stars fashion show.

Philstar.com photo

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOvEmbER 25-28, 2017

B

‘JoWaPao’ relishes back-to-back projects

The ups and downs, and The biTTersweeT ending of a special case abouT a special son who had auTism on This sunday’s ciTiZen pinoy! when norma immigrated to the u.s., she had to leave behind their autistic son, michael because he aged out. The separation broke her heart. norma and husband Joy (left) went to three other attorneys who were unable to deliver results, until they decided to retain leading u.s. immigration attorney michael J. gurfinkel, who was finally able to bring michael to the u.s., to be reunited with his parents. watch the heartfelt journey of michael and his family that led to a pleasant reunion, but with a painful ending, on a brand-new episode of ciTiZen pinoy – on sunday at 6:15 pm (psT) on Tfc.

A rollercoaster of emotions on a brand-new ‘Citizen Pinoy’!

Norma and Joy had to leave behind their autistic child michael when they immigrated to the U.S. because he aged out. It was a very painful decision for the couple. Visits were also rare, as Norma also had to care for her blind mother and her father who had Parkinson’s Disease.

In their desire to bring michael over the soonest, Norma and Joy has seen three other lawyers who were unable to deliver results. In the end, they

decided to retain leading U.S. immigration attorney michael J. Gurfinkel, who had also successfully handled their daughter’s immigration case.

When michael’s priority date became current, atty. Gurfinkel wrote the U.S. Embassy to request special accommodations, that michael’s caregiver/guardian be allowed to accompany him to the interview. atty. Gurfinkel briefed the caregiver days before michael’s interview.

michael passed the interview and entered the U.S. as a green card holder in September 2014. michael’s parents had a tearful reunion with their son and a truly merry Christmas that year.

But then tragedy struck.

See how the events turned from pleasant to painful on a brand-new episode of CITIZEN PINoY this Sunday at 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

JoSE manalo, Wally Bayola and Paolo Ballesteros are happily discovering that their wit and comedic chemistry go beyond “Eat, Bulaga!”

Spin-off characters from the highly successful “Kalyeserye” that concluded with alDub’s [alden richards and maine “Yaya Dub” mendoza] wedding and newfound family life, Lolas Tidora, Nidora and Tinidora have been making waves weekday mornings on Gma Network with “The Lolas’ Beautiful Show.” airing just before Eat Bulaga, the noontime show’s loyal viewers are treated to 30 minutes of fun talk about life and love and everything in between by the trio of JoWaPao; that is, Jose manalo, Wally Bayola and Paolo Ballesteros.

“The show, in a way, is an extension of what we’ve done in Kalyeserye. With the same characters we try to interact with different people from all ages, while trying to impart life lessons to the viewers,” said Bayola. admittedly, The Lolas’ Beautiful Show came as a surprise for all three of them. Ballesteros reveals they were only given two weeks to prepare for their pilot episode in late September.

“We’re very happy with this opportunity but at the same time, we feel that we have an bigger responsibility to the audience,” Ballesteros explains. “We take time to plan and discuss what we’ll feature in every episode because we only want to give them the best. after all, it’s not every day that your bosses will gift you with a project this big.” manalo, the original Lola Tinidora of Kalyeserye what with the characters of Nidora and Tidora introduced later into the concept, says for his part he is simply overwhelmed that two years since the

aldub phenomenon, the public is still hooked on the Lolas. right now, TV’s successful trio are counting on the same support from their fans for their first major film “Trip Ubusan: The Lolas vs Zombies” from aPT Entertainment and m-ZET TV Production.

(See banner story).

“This project is different from Kalyeserye and ‘Lolas Beautiful Show’ because this is an actionadventure movie. We’ve never done anything like this together,”

Bayola relates.

“They will see our characters’ personal adventures, while we show them that despite age, the Lolas—just like their grandparents—still have that sense of adventure in them,” manalo adds.

Busy as can be what with the morning talk show, “Eat Bulaga!” and movie promos, the trio agrees they will not have it any other way. after all, how many people can actually say their job is a whole load of fun? (ManilaTimes.net)

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Miss Philippines wins Miss Asia Global...

PAGE B1 house of Pegasus.

Escoto who hails from Nueva Valencia, Guimaras is reportedly bagged special awards such as Best in National Costume, Best in Formal Wear and the missosology Choice award.

During the national costume competition, Escoto wore a black and white modern Filipiñana with

trumpet-shaped skirt.

China’s Honey Tian mi was crowned miss asia 2017, while Basgkortostan’s regina mukhamadieva and India’s akanksha mishra were named First runner-up and Second runner-up, respectively.

For November alone, several Filipina beauties gained victory in international pageants.

Filipina beauties Karen Ibasco

and Teresita Ssen “Winwyn” marquez were hailed miss Earth and reina Hispanoamericano title holders. miss Philippines Nelda Ibe also finished as first runner-up at the miss Globe 2017. also a recent international pageant winner is Jodel mesina who was crowned miss Top of the paolo ballesteros, Jose manalo and wally World Plus Size 2017. bayola gma photo

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B November 25-28, 2017 • LA WeeKeND ASIAN JoUrNAL

Features

Nine Seafood in Cerritos expands its Thai cuisine menu fOLkS in Cerritos, California already know about Nine Seafood’s scrumptious take on Cajun-style boil-in-bag seafood.

But what some people may not know is that Nine Seafood also serves up some of the tastiest thai cuisine dishes in town. from Pad thai to a wide variety of curries and other classic options, Nine Seafood recently introduced some new dishes to the thai menu, and they size up very well among all other thai cuisine establishments. the tom Yum Goong soup is now available and perfect for the chilly winter months. Served with shrimp, seafood or chicken, this thai classic features a rich broth and that pairs well with the fresh meat options available.

Also available are two staples that are sure to satisfy every thai cuisine enthusiast. first, the savory thai B.B.Q. Pork Spare ribs were introduced this November and they are sure to please all lovers of ribs. each serving includes sizable pork ribs that are generously glazed with decadent B.B.Q. sauce that makes this dish impossible to overlook.

Refreshing Thai Iced Tea with boba

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Experiences from day two in the historical Holy Land

by Emil

Nine Seafood’s Thai menu gets some new additions. (l-r clockwise) Tom Yum Goong (offered with shrimp, seafood and chicken), Thai B.B.Q. Chicken and Thai B.B.Q. Pork Spare ribs.

the other new addition to the menu is the thai B.B.Q. Chicken and to anyone who is familiar with thai cuisine knows that thai B.B.Q. is to thai culture as Chicken Adobo is to filipino culture; it’s essential and when done right, it’s exquisite.

And Nine Seafood does it right. the chicken is cooked to perfection: not too dry, not undercooked. each serving features four chicken cuts all perfectly doused in a rich blend of B.B.Q. sauce. this selection is definitely a must-try for your next visit to Nine Seafood.

New appetizers on the menu include edamame, Nine Seafood Salad, Spicy Beef Salad, Larb and Spicy Seafood Salad among others.

Nine Seafood’s staff wants to make sure you get enough bang for your buck and have introduced new promotions that allow you to try out more of their tasty options.

Available for lunch only from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31, 2018, if you buy three pounds of shrimps you get one free order of sweet potato fries and if you buy any two combo sets, you get a free 1 lb order of mussels. Additionally, bring a copy of the coupon listed in this issue to redeem a free thai iced tea.

Nine Seafood accepts take-out orders and even offers catering for your next big party. You can call them at (562)-865-8990 or order online at www.eat24.com or www. grubhub.com. the unique dining experience at Nine Seafood promises a wide range of Cajun and thai flavors that will satisfy any customer.

Nine Seafood is located at 11818 South Street, Ste. 108, Cerritos, California 90703. It is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. for more information, visit www.nineseafoodrestaurant. com.

PErito

We started off our second day with a drive to the picturesque coastal town of Haifa, which with nearly 280,000 inhabitants, is the third largest city in all of Israel. Up until 1104, Haifa was the most important port in the Latin kingdom.

Yet as beautiful as Haifa was, rising in splendor from the sea, the purpose of the trip was to visit the Carmelite Monastery Stella Maris, a monastery dedicated to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. It is located over the cave known to be Prophet elijah’s place of refuge, and now current grotto.

Some crusaders in the 12th century settled in the western slopes of Mount Carmel, in order to live a hermit-esque lifestyle like the Prophet elijah. this marked the beginning of the Carmelite Order of monks. the prophet elijah was one of the people in the Bible who God used to oppose a wicked king and bring revival to the land during an important time in Israel’s history.

We then continued on to Nazareth to visit the Basilica of the Annunciation to view the blessed cave, where the angel Gabriel appeared before Mary. We also had a chance to see Mary and Joseph’s house and carpentry shop where Jesus spent the first 30 years of His life. this was followed with a visit

to Cana where Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine as recorded in John 2:1-11. this was highlighted with the renewal of wedding vows for couples at the beautiful Wedding Church at Cana. established in 1995, Air Plus

travel specializes in religious travel. Join us in one of our organized trips to the Holy Land in March and October 2018. for more information, contact Air Plus travel at (562) 863 - 0624, or visit us at www.airplustravel. net.

The anatomy of Mocha Uson’s ‘popularity’

(Advertising Supplement)

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After much thought and her staggering ‘virality,’ I have decided to put into writing the curiosity that’s been building up in me regarding this entertainerturned-blogger-turned-government official Margaux ‘Mocha’ Uson. Yes, friends, it has come to this: that I dedicate a column for the purpose of analyzing what the fuss is and why this woman is gaining popularity – for contradictory reasons.

I do not know Uson personally but my newsfeed is filled with news about her – some good but most of it are not-so-good, all the while leading to my ultimate question: who is Mocha Uson?

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve read that she was an entertainer (she also did a few movies) who became a blogger and has about 5.4 million followers on facebook, then became a government official specifically the appointed assistant secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO).

Apparently, the ‘giant leap’ from her former career to her present role was met with much controversy not only because of her reputation as a former ‘sexy star’ but because of her relentless devotion to President rodrigo Duterte during his presidential campaign – which some said was the reason why she was appointed in the first place. there were also allegations that she has been spreading false information and that did not sit well with the mass majority. Another reason she is drawing flak is because of her blog, which they say, “glorifies President Duterte and sends the message that the President can do no wrong.”

But before we dig deep into whether these observations are factual or not, I wanted to allocate some writing space for these information I’ve put together about Mocha Uson.

Born Margaux Justiniano Uson on May 17, 1982 in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, she is known professionally as Mocha Uson or by her stage name Mocha. She is a filipino singer, dancer, model, blogger best known as the lead vocalist of the Mocha Girls. Her mother, estrellita Uson, was a pediatrician in Dagupan. In 2010, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer but is now cancerfree after undergoing treatment.

Uson first gained popularity as the leader of the Mocha Girls, an all-female dance group. they have released a couple of albums and performed in various venues throughout the Philippines, United States, Dubai, and Guam.

She also had a series of online videos giving sex tips. She once stirred controversy for the ways she showed her support in causes like breast cancer awareness and the passage of the then-reproductive Health Bill.

Uson started as a solo singerdancer blogger performing in bars around Metro Manila. She was popular for her sexy image & on-stage antics, which included

Mocha Uson

lap dances. for a time, she served as the lead vocalist of the rock band Mocha With Spin Art. Unbeknownst to most people, Uson earned a degree in medical technology from the University of Santo tomas, she then attended medical school in the same university for two years before dropping out to pursue a career in the music industry. She attended the Mother Goose Special School System for her elementary and high school education.

Uson maintained a blog which made her one of the most widely read commentators in the Philippines. She uses her blog to provide commentary and advice on sex-related issues and to host online video chats. the blog has over 20 million hits as of June 2016.

During the 2016 Philippine presidential elections, Mocha’s blog posts started to focus on politics. Her facebook page, MOCHA USON BLOG, contained posts actively supporting President rodrigo Duterte and his anti-drug campaign. the blog also criticizes the Philippines’ top newsgroups - ABS-CBN, GMA Network, the Philippine Daily Inquirer, and rappler which she has labeled as “Presstitutes” – a portmanteau of press and prostitute. She has also criticized Vice President Leni robredo, Senators Leila de Lima and Antonio trillanes, and the Liberal Party.

One of the reasons behind Mocha’s support for Duterte, whom she believes would end criminality in the country, was the failure of justice in the assassination of her father, Judge Oscar Uson.

On May 8, 2017, Uson’s fearless attack on President Duterte’s detractors and her unyielding campaign for President rodrigo Duterte paid off. the president later on appointed Uson as assistant secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), handling the social media department of the PCOO. Before taking on the PCOO post, she was a board member of the Movie and television review and Classification Board (MtrCB).

Her term at the censor’s board started in January 2017 and was supposed to end on September 30, 2017.

Sometime in March, Mocha Uson’s twitter account got suspended. According to twitter, the common reasons for suspending an account include spam, account security is at risk or abusive tweets or behavior from the user.

After the suspension, hashtag #MochaUsonIsOverParty became the top trending topic in the Philippines. She went live after to criticize supporters of the Liberal Party, who she claimed

Inquirer.net photo

was responsible for reporting her account. Her account went back immediately in the afternoon.

Why the hate the question is rhetorical for some people. for them, “who wouldn’t hate this piece of trash?”

But is she really what they accuse her of? Or are we being too judgmental just because she dresses sexy? Well for some people it has more to do with her blog, which they find disconcerting because its main message is that President Duterte can do no wrong.

As if to add fuel to the fire, her articles contain stories about the president being bullied and maligned for doing his job. She is quick to name names and call out government officials and the media for being “pro-Pnoy” or “Maka-dilaw.” the majority claims that Mocha Uson is the epitome of antiintellectualism. A netizen twitted: “Mocha Uson is the epitome of Pinoy anti-intellectualism. regardless of what she does w/ her body, she invites filipinos to disregard facts.”

But more often than not, those who are against Uson are not necessarily assailing her validity as a political commentator, rather, are merely challenging her assertion that citizens should just accept and support everything that the President says and does.

Where’s the love coming from the irony here is that filipinos actually love her for the same reasons she is criticized for. I mean, who doesn’t love a classic story of rising from the ashes or (to put it plainly), “a sexy star-turnedgovernment official?”

Uson is your classic “beenthere-done-that-and-look-atme-now.” Many believe that she represents the minority and they can identify with her being judged and bashed for being passionate and fighting for what – or who – she believes in.

Well, I do not speak for any party but I am hoping that if she is fighting for a good cause, that she remains steadfast and succeed. And maybe, just maybe, we would see her beyond the sexy persona that she’s being condemned for. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns.

Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

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Health@Heart

FEATURES

Fascinating history in heart surgery, Dr. Denton A. Cooley, founder and surgeon-inchief of the Texas Heart Institute in Houston.

The management of heart diseases was still in the Dark Ages during my undergraduate years in the late 50s. Physicians then did not know how to treat heart diseases, much less, save the lives of patients with these ailments. Looking back, the physicians at that time did not even know that simple aspirin had any potential role in the prevention or treatment of heart attacks. Treatment was mainly symptomatic, using pain pills or pain shots. The

most sophisticated pill was the nitrate pill, a vasodilator that “relaxes open” the coronary artery, PHILIP S. CHUA, since the “current” knowledge MD, FACS, FPCS in physiology then said angina pectoris (chest pain) was due to (Part 1 of 2) spasm in the coronary arteries AS the year comes to a close, which supply the heart muscles allow me to take you back in time with oxygen and nutrition. to revisit some of the great moThe first milestone that started ments in medical science which it all was in 1628 when an English made possible the great strides physician first described blood man has made in the treatment circulation. Inspired by that, of cardiovascular diseases that these historical events followed: benefit all of us today.

I had \ 1706 - Raymond de Vieusprivilege in 1972 to have trained sens, a French anatomy profesas a fellow in Cardiac Surgery sor, first described the structure under one of the world’s giants of the heart’s chambers and vessels.

1733 - Stephen Hales, an English clergyman and scientist first measured blood pressure.

1816 - Rene T. H. Laennec, a French physician, invented the first stethoscope.

1903 - Eillem Einthoven, a Dutch physician, developed the first electrocardiogram.

1912 - James B. Herrick, an American physician, first described heart disease resulting from hardening of the arteries, a fundamental concept that led to the modern therapy of today.

1938 - Robert E. Gross, an American surgeon, performed the first heart surgery (closeheart, not open-heart).

1951 - Charles Hufnagel, an Erich Gonzales (left, photo via Instagram/Erich Gonzales) and Myrtle Sarrosa (right, photo via American surgeon, developed a Instagram/Myrtle Gail) have been tapped as new calendar girls of different liquor brands. plastic valve to repair the aortic valve.

1952 - F. John Lewis, an American surgeon, performed the first successful open heart surgery.

1953 - John H. Gibbon, an si San Miguel mismo, the angel.

by JAN MILO SEVERO Bawat brand na meron sila, guPhilstar.com mawa kami ng new characters na ABS-CBN actress Erich Gon- pwede ko i-cosplay at puwedeng zales has just been launched as mag-represent ng bawat brand,” the Tanduay calendar girl on she said.

Wednesday, while barely two The iconic calendar, which weeks ago, actress, cosplayer and featured Solenn Heussaff, GeorUniversity of the Philippines cum gina Wilson, Marian Rivera, Ellaude Myrtle Sarrosa has been len Adarna, Arci Muñoz and Kim introduced as the new calendar Domingo in the past, puts a new girl for Ginebra San Miguel. flavor in the 2018 edition.

Does this mean that the two are “This one, instead na magnow open to sexier roles in movies take off kami ng clothes, nag-put and television? on kami ng iba’t ibang costume.

“Ako naman ‘pag dumarating Gusto namin i-bring out ‘yung sa akin ang project, I take it on mas millennial ‘feels.’ Kasi usually as a role so hindi ko sya tinitig- ine-equate nila ‘yung pagiging nan kung sexy ba siya or hindi. sexy sa pagiging trashy. So we Tinitignan ko siya na kung ano want to put out na you can be sexy ba ‘yung character at kung anong and confident and unique and klaseng role ba ‘yung pinoportray you can put out new characters,” ko,” Myrtle said in an interview Myrtle explained. with the media during the Ginebra Myrtle also told the media that event. she almost quit showbiz. After her The “Pinoy Big Brother Teen graduation, she did not know what Edition 4” Big Winner, however, to pursue in her life. said that she has her limitations.

“After graduating, unsure ako “As long as may moral ‘yung dun sa darating sa career ko. ‘Di story, I would always take on the ko alam kung ano ba talaga – kung role. Basta ‘wag lang magpakita mag-pursue pa ko ng showbiz ng topless or anything.” kasi after kong grumaduate di ko In her calendar, Myrtle donned na alam kung ano ang susunod the brand’s iconic angel costume. sa akin. Pero grateful ako na She also looks out of this world in after graduating, pinili ako ng a cyber chic outfit, and channels Ginebra,” Myrtle emotionally told an illusionist persona. In some members of the media. images, she transformed into a Just like the ladies who graced forest enchantress, and as the the calendar in the past, Myrtle lady boss. hopes that this is the start of “Gumawa kami ng iba’t ibang something good in her career. unique characters sa bawat brand “Sana this would open new na meron ang Ginebra. Isa sa doors for me in the showbiz pinasikat na ginawa ko is ‘yung world.”

Battle of the calendar girls: Erich Gonzales versus Myrtle Sarrosa

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017

American surgeon, introduced the heart lung machine (which he published as a concept in 1937) and first used this mechanical heart and “blood purifier” to do the first “real open heart surgery” utilizing the heart lung machine, precursor of the modern day cardiopulmonary bypass machine.

1950 - John Hopps, a Canadian, invented the external heart pacemaker. That same year, Willem Greatbatch introduced the concept of an implantable (internal) heart pacemaker.

1960 - The first self-contained implantable heart pacemaker made by Medtronic was inserted

by W. C. Lillihei. Over the years, this has been improved, made more versatile, smaller, better, and longer lasting.

1961 - J. R. Jude, an American cardiologist, led a ream in performing the first external cardiac massage to re-start the heart, the foundation for today’s CPR. 1960s - Denton A. Cooley of Houston, Texas, rose to fame for his extraordinary dexterity in performing thousands of congenital heart surgeries in infants, and for being the first to successfully remove pulmonary emboli (clots in the lungs).

1965 - Michael De Bakey and Adrian Kantrowitz, American surgeons, implanted mechanical devise to help the diseased heart.

1967 - Christian Barnard of South Africa, performed the first whole heart transplant from one person to another.

1968 - Denton Cooley performed the first heart transplant in the United States on a 47-yearold man, using a donor heart from a 15-year-old. The patient

lived for 204 days. He had done 22 heart transplants over the next year, a record at the time.

1969 - Denton A. Cooley implanted the first artificial (mechanical) heart on a man to “tide him over” and keep him alive while waiting for a donor heart.

1972 - In the field of clinical application, Denton A. Cooley had, by this time, performed more than 10,000 open-heart surgeries, more than any other surgeon in the world. That year, in his honor, the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society was founded. Its members are the more than 800 heart surgeons from 50 countries around the world whom he trained at the Texas Heart Institute (THI) in Houston. (As a Filipino-American heart surgeon, I was truly humbled to be elected as its first president.) The THI has been doing more than 30 open-heart surgeries per day since then.

1970s - Michel Mirowski, M.D., and his associates, Morton Mower, Stephen Heilman, M.D., Alois Langer, PhD, and a company called Medrad in Pittsburgh, developed the automatic implantable cardiac defibrillator.

In 1980, the prototype AICD was implanted at Johns Hopkins to prevent sudden cardiac death.

1982 - Willem DeVries, an American surgeon, implanted a permanent artificial heart, designed by Robert Jarvic, also an American physician. O. H. Frazier and his team under Dr. Cooley at the Texas Heart Institute has performed more than 600 heart transplants, and doing extensive works on artificial (mechanical) hearts. Someday, they will be available on the shelf like pace-

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makers today, and heart bypass and cardiac valve surgeries would be a thing of the past.

A crazy idea A most worthy pioneer was Werner Forssmann, who, as a surgical resident in Germany in 1929, experimented with himself by inserting a catheter through a vein in his arm and into his heart. He walked to the basement where the X-ray machine was, and x-rayed himself to prove that the catheter was in his heart. In another experiment, he injected dye to his heart through that catheter and took x-ray film.

Many of his fellow physicians were outraged by his “daring and insane” acts.

This, by the way, was the origin of what we know today as coronary or heart angiogram or cardiac catheterization that made possible life-saving procedures, like angioplasties and heart bypass surgeries all over the world.

Thanks to Forssmann’s “crazy idea.” In 1956, Forssmann was awarded a Nobel prize, shared with Dickinson Richards and Andre Cournand, physicians in New York who studied heart function and physiology using catheters.

(To be continued next week) *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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

Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

B November 25-28, 2017 • LA WeeKeND ASIAN JoUrNAL

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Immigrating as a fiancé(e)

Your Immigration Solution DEVIN M. CONNOLY AND NANCY MILLER IT is nearly a universal dream to be happily married. To be with the person that you consider to be your soul mate, the person with whom you can share life’s joys and happy moments.

Though this dream is not limited to U.S. citizens, what is limited to U.S. citizens is the ability to file a petition for their fiancé(e) to join them in the U.S. This ability is extremely important because, as anybody who has been in a long-distance relationship can tell you, telephone calls and text messages are just not the same as seeing your significant other on a daily basis.

It is commonly known that both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can petition for their spouses to join them in the U.S. But if there is not a legal marriage between the parties, green card holders are unable to petition their significant other. And no, neither the duration of the relationship nor the strength of the commitment is relevant. Only U.S. citizens may file petitions for a fiancé(e)! This petition is filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).

Once approved, it may lead to the issuance of a fiancé(e) visa, commonly referred to as a K-1 visa.

There are several requirements that must be met by the U.S. citizen petitioner and his or her fiancé(e). The U.S. citizen petitioner and his or her fiancé(e) must intend to marry within 90 days of the foreign national’s entry to the U.S. This intention must be sincere; it is not permissible for a person to enter the U.S. simply to decide whether they actually want to marry their petitioner. There also must not be any legal impediments to marriage. This includes the re-

quirement that any and all prior marriages have been legally terminated through divorce, death or annulment.

In addition, the U.S. citizen petitioner and his or her fiancé(e) must have met, in person, at least once in the two-year period preceding the filing of the petition. There are exceptions to this requirement if an in-person meeting would violate strict and long-established customs of either party’s foreign culture or social practice, or if the in-person meeting requirement would result in extreme hardship to the U.S. citizen petitioner. The mere inconvenience to have to travel to a foreign country, or to take time off from work or

to avoid immigration requirements and enter the U.S. .

Following the foreign national’s entry into the U.S., they must marry their petitioner within 90 days of entry. It does not matter if this marriage is before many friends and family members or a small civil ceremony, so long as it occurs within 90 days of entry to the U.S. After this timely marriage, the foreign national may then proceed to file an application for a green card.

Yes, that entails more applications, more documents, and likely a second interview, but the process should hopefully be more enjoyable since now you are able to go through it while living in the same house as your beloved spouse.

Finally, a fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen may also be eligible to bring their children with them to the U.S. The children will only be allowed to enter the U.S. if they are unmarried and under 21-yearsold.

Immigrating to the U.S. with a fiancé(e) visa can be complex.

There are some unique aspects to K-1 visas about which many people are unfortunately not aware. Be sure to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney so that you can be reunited with your significant other as soon as possible. ***

“ This intention must be sincere; it is not permissible for a person to enter the U.S. simply to decide whether they actually want to marry their petitioner.” purchase an expensive airline ticket will not qualify you for an exception to the in-person meeting requirement.

After the USCIS approves the petition, the foreign national must apply for the fiancé(e) visa.

Following submission of the application and required supporting documents, the fiancé(e) will be required to appear for a personal interview at the U.S. Embassy in their home country. At this interview, they will be questioned extensively by a Consular Officer who must be convinced that the relationship is not one that has been entered into solely to obtain immigration benefits. To assist in that determination, the Consular Officer will need to see documentary evidence of the true, actual relationship. The inability to submit sufficient proof or correctly answer questions may lead the Consular Officer to deny the application for a fiancé(e) visa if they believe that the application was being submitted solely

Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Pasadena, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Manila and China.

Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com website: www.rreeves.com *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017

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C NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon YOU’VE probably seen a lot of these ads: “Settle your debts for pennies on the dollar!”, “Reduce your debts legally without filing bankruptcy!” “Stop bill collectors now and pay them only what you can!”

Are all these just exaggerated claims? Or are any of these ads true? How can you protect yourself from being scammed?

If you’ve accumulated a lot of credit card and other debts and have found it difficult to make your payments, perhaps you would like to find a way out of debt without having to file for bankruptcy as much as possible.

After all, bankruptcy is often the last resort for most people when no other options exist.

But how do you know who to trust before giving anyone your hard-earned dollars?

Unfortunately, bad things happen even to good, honest and decent people. And when you are in a situation where your bill collectors are hounding you day and night for payment, you may be tempted to accept the first offer of help from someone who comes along, although you may not really understand what you are get-

Tax Tips victoR sy, cPA, mBA

IF you are not satisfied with the results of your IRS audit, go to Appeals. You have a choice of either ending your misery by paying up or by continuing to fight at the Appeals Office. The appeals process is an administrative means to resolve your problems without resorting to legal action. It’s a good way to resolve disputes. It is less strenuous than the audit process and is less costly than Tax Court. You also have better odds of settling your case.

Let’s discuss basics of the appeals process: 1. If an IRS agent with an attitude had just put you through a treadmill, go to appeals. If you feel that there were mistakes in handling your case or that you were not adequately represented, go to

Community Journal

Debt forgiveness without bankruptcy ting into.

FACT: Debt settlement companies are everywhere, often telling you things that are not true. You see them advertising in newspapers, on TV and on the internet.

I am sorry to say but a lot of these companies are “scams” for the lack of a better term. They will tell you whatever you want to hear and make promises that they can’t keep.

Once you hire one of these debt settlement companies, your phone will never stop ringing and they have no way to legally protect you because they are not attorneys (although a lot of them lie to you and claim that they are somehow affiliated with law firms).

Don’t believe a word of what they tell you and be very careful especially if this is a company that you have not met with face to face. A lot of these companies are out of state and once they have your money, you may not hear from them again.

Does this mean that all debt settlement companies are dishonest? No, that’s not what I’m saying. But you need to be very careful as there are a lot of unscrupulous and deceitful companies out there who want to take advantage of your misfortune.

Before you hire a debt settle-

ment company, make sure that you understand the agreement that you are signing. Over the years, I have heard hundreds of horror stories from clients who have put their faith and trust in a debt settlement company who made a lot of big promises that they could not eventually deliver.

They charge large up-front fees before they do any work and in a lot of cases, they don’t explain to you exactly what services they will be providing. Most of them also do not tell you that the credit bureaus will still report your accounts as “late” on your credit report. Thus, if your credit will be ruined anyway, wouldn’t you just be better off filing for bankruptcy so you can get out of debt much quicker without spending so much money?

This doesn’t mean that debt settlement is not an alternative to filing bankruptcy. In some cases, it is better than bankruptcy if settling your debts is the best way to protect your assets without having a bankruptcy on your record.

Remember, however, that settlements are only available on unsecured debts like credit cards, medical bills and department store cards, auto repo and foreclosure deficien-

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10 basics of the IRS appeals process appeals. It is faster, cheaper, and more equitable. You go before an experienced Appeals Officer who has a better understanding of life, one who has a broader mind than the agent who put you through a ringer.

2. You have a fairly good advantage. The Appeals Officer acts like a mediator. You have another advantage: your opponent is not there. It is just you and the Appeals Officer. It frees you from adversarial feelings against the prior agent and creates an atmosphere that is conducive to settlement.

3. Remember that your objective is to settle, not to triumph.

Your goal is to rectify something wrong. And if a broadminded tax veteran can see it your way, your chance to settle increases.

4. Of course, bear in mind that this Appeals Officer is a CPA, law-

yer, or both, who may find critical issues that may have been overlooked by the prior agent. If this is your case, stay away from appeals.

5. After the audit of your returns, you receive a notice from the exam division asking you to agree or disagree. They send a 30-day letter. This is your ticket to appeals.

6. Your first step is to prepare a written protest. Be persuasive.

Maximize issues in your favor.

Counter arguments on issues that are not in your favor.

7. The protest will be forwarded to the original agent who will file a response. Get a copy of that response from either the Appeals Officer or through FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) so you can prepare for rebuttal.

8. Prepare well for the confer-

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Is the ‘S’ Visa available to you if you testify for the FBI?

Estate Corner Atty. BriAn Lerner QUESTION: I have been notified by the FBI that they want me to testify against some very bad people. Is there anything I can do for my lack of immigration status?

Answer: It may be possible for you to get the S Visa. An S nonimmigrant is an individual who has assisted a law enforcement agency as a witness or informant.

A law enforcement agency may submit an application for permanent residence (a green card) on behalf of a witness or informant when the individual has completed the terms and conditions of his or her S classification. Thus, not only can you get a temporary ‘S’ Visa, but you can also get a permanent residency if the proper requisites are met.

Question: So what must I do?

Answer: First, you would have to file Form I-854, Interagency

The Prophetic Voice ReveRend Rodel G. BAlAGtAs WE often speak of “the bottom line” — the bottom line of a financial report, an educational program, or a political speech. In the grand perspective of life, however, a bottom line does not merely refer to a result or profit. Rather, it’s about the crux or the heart of the matter, the essence of who we are or what we’re called to be.

On this Thanksgiving weekend, we might ask ourselves about the bottom line of our existence, our relationships, our beliefs, and our Christian faith. In the end, what are we called to be in this world? Why do we exist? What’s the purpose or the meaning of our lives here on earth? What and why do we believe? What’s the essence or the heart of the matter of our Christian faith?

It’s good to think about these questions as we spend these somber season of autumn when we see fallen leaves on sidewalks and drive home from work on a cold evening when the days are short. It’s a good time to reflect on our accomplishments, our goals, and our heart’s desires. And as

Alien Witness and Informant Record. This form is to be completed by the federal or state law enforcement agency or the U.S. Attorney’s Office that initially filed for the S nonimmigrant status on your behalf.

Evidence that the witness or informant has fulfilled his or her obligations as an S nonimmigrant and provided information about all potential grounds of inadmissibility must be included with the completed and signed Form I-854 application. Failure to disclose all grounds of inadmissibility may result in you being removed (deported) from the United States.

There are many more grounds that are waivable under the S Visa versus many other types of visas.

Question: What is the next step?

Answer: After Form I-854 is approved, file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. You should check box “h” in part 2 of

the I-485 application and write “S Nonimmigrant” or “S-Qualified Family Member” on the line next to box “h.” Thus, the S Visa is not only available to you, but to family members as well.

Question: When I submit the adjustment package, what evidence should I submit?

Answer: You should submit the following: Two passport-style photos; Form G-325A, Biographic Information, if you are between 14 and 79 years of age; Copy of birth certificate; Form I-693, Report of Medical Exam and Vaccination Record; Copy of Form I-94, Entry/Exit Record (if you have it); Copies of all pages in your passport. If you do not have a passport, you should submit an explanation of why you do not have a passport; A list showing the dates of all arrivals and departures from the United States while you were in S nonimmigrant status with an explanation for each departure of why you left the United States;

we heard in the Gospel readings these past Sundays, it’s the proper time to give an account to God about how we have become faithful and wise stewards of our lives.

On this Sunday of the Solemnity of Christ, the King, the end of the liturgical year, the gospel presents to us the “bottom line” of our faith through the following dialogue that cuts to the heart: “I was hungry, and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I was naked and you gave me clothing. I was sick and you took care of me. I was in prison and you visited me.

“When was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? When was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you or naked and gave you clothing?

“When was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?

“Truly, I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these…you did it to me.”

Jesus tells us frankly the bottom line of our Christian faith.

It’s how we have loved and cared deeply and generously, how we have helped people and made a difference in their lives, how we have done our duties and responsibilities to the people that

God has entrusted to us. Indeed, it’s how we have become Christ to one another.

So the bottom line is not a lofty idea but a practical matter. It’s a meaningful life spent in real actions of service to our loved ones and neighbors, especially to those in want. It’s heroic charity in times of inconvenience and difficulty when some people test our patience.

This Thanksgiving weekend is a time for family reunions, eating, shopping, relaxation, and planning for Christmas and New Year. As we do these things, may we never lose sight of the bottom line, the heart of the matter of all these activities, which is grounded in the words, life, and mission of Jesus Christ! *** From a Filipino immigrant family, Reverend Rodel G. Balagtas was ordained to the priesthood from St. John’s Seminary in 1991. He served as Associate Pastor at St. Augustine, Culver City (1991-1993); St. Martha, Valinda (1993-1999); and St. Joseph the Worker, Canoga Park (19912001). In 2001, he served as Administrator Pro Tem of St. John Neumann in Santa Maria, CA, until his appointment as pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Los Angeles, in 2002, which lasted 12 years. His term as Associate Director of Pastoral Field Education at St. John’s Seminary began in July 2014.

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(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Remedies for victims of human labor trafficking Q. MY employer brought me to America to work as live-in nanny for their youngest child. I would be paid $1,000 per month with weekends off. When we arrived in Los Angeles, my employer took my passport. At their home, I work 7 days a week, 14 to 16 hours per day.

I take care of an infant and also cook, clean, and laundry for the entire family. I am not allowed to leave the house without my employer. Instead of the promised $1,000, I was paid $300 per month. When I complained, my employer told me I was lucky that I have free room and food. I was then told that if I leave, I will be deported because my visa is expired.

What should I do?

A: Call the police. Or have someone call the police for you. It is better to ask law enforcement for help because what is being done to you may not only be illegal but also criminal. You may be a victim of human trafficking, specifically, labor trafficking.

Human trafficking is obtaining labor by the use of force, fraud or coercion in order to subject a person to involuntary servitude or slavery. Human trafficking is a criminal offense. However, the laws also allow the victims to obtain civil remedies (i.e., money) against the traffickers.

Why should victims care about civil remedies? Because restitution in criminal proceedings is often not enough to compensate a victim for all her/his damages. Victims of

Center (NHTRC), there is no single profile for trafficking victims – they can be any age, from any economic background, with varied levels of education, and may be documented or undocumented.

They can be foreign nationATTY. C. JOE SAYAS, JR. als or American citizens. For as long as they are compelled labor trafficking may be paid by force, fraud, or coercion to only the equivalent of wages provide labor or services, they owed to them. But what about are victims of labor traffickthe victim’s physical or emo- ing. tional injuries while living unHuman trafficking violates der the control of the trafficker? criminal and employment For these types of injuries, only laws. Thus, while trafficking civil remedies are available. victims continue to cooperIn California, trafficking vic- ate with law enforcement and tims are allowed to sue their so- other government agencies called “employers” for “forced regarding their situation, it labor,” which means labor or is also equally important for services obtained or maintained them to consult with an expethrough force, fraud, or coer- rienced employment attorney cion. Trafficking victims are en- to help them obtain all availtitled to: able civil remedies against Actual damages (proper wages their traffickers. owed under California law, in*** cluding overtime pay, interest, and penalties) The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Damages for emotional distress Jr. welcomes inquiries about this Treble damages (which means topic. All inquiries are confidential the victim’s actual damages and at no-cost. You can contact multiplied by three) the office at (818) 291-0088 or Punitive damages visit www.joesayaslaw.com or our Attorneys fees Facebook page Joe Sayas Law. [C. Trafficking victims do not have Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced to be physically restrained (or trial attorney who has successfully locked up) by the “employer.” recovered wages and other monetary They may be able to go outside damages for thousands of employees the home of the “employer” but and consumers. He was named Top the “employer” still maintains Labor & Employment Attorney in psychological control over them California by the Daily Journal, by threats of harm to them or consistently selected as Super Lawyer their family, or threats of being by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is arrested by police or of being the recipient of PABA’s Community deported.

Champion Award for 2016.]

According to the National Human Trafficking Resource (Advertising Supplement)

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights

Calendar of Events across

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 N OV E M B E R 29

13th annual mayor’s luncheon in Woodland Hills, CA The United Chambers of Commerce of the San Fernando Valley presents the 13th annual mayor’s luncheon with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti on Wednesday, November 29 at the Warner Center Marriott - Grand Ballroom (21850 Oxnard Street, Woodland Hills, CA 91367).

Registration opens at 11 a.m. and the program is from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There will be complimentary self-parking, while valet is $16. For questions or sponsorship opportunities, please call (818) 981-4491 or email marian@unitedchambers.org.

N OV E M B E R 3 0

Immigration forum in Anaheim, CA Global Law Centers in association with Civicminds Recruitment presents an immigration forum on Thursday, November 30 at the Brookhurst Community Center (2271 Crescent Ave., Anaheim, CA 92801). Candidates and employers with H-1B, TN, F-1, OPT & other visa issues are encouraged to attend this FREE Q&A session from 6 to 8 p.m. Civicminds Recruitment will offer tips on how to find employers for green card and work visas after graduation, job placement assistance for qualified applicants and free resume evaluation. To register, please email admin@globallawcenters.com or call (714) 657-7460. For more information, please visit www.globallawcenters.com.

D EC E M B E R 1

Historic Filipinotown parol parade and festival in Los Angeles The Historic Filipinotown Neighborhood Council (HFNC) announced that the annual parade and festival will be on Friday, December 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event will start with the assembly of parols and vehicles at 250 N. Union St. at the Our Lady of Lorreto Catholic Church courtyard. The parade will start at 5 p.m. and will go westward from Union to Beverly, and will eventually end up at the FCC/FACLA compound at 1740 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90026. The HFNC is calling for volunteers who will serve as security, ushers, for registration and monitors for the parade. To volunteer, please call Art at (213)318-9065.

For more information, please contact Cecile at (213) 503-8176.

D EC E M B E R 2

Pasko Na Naman in Glendale, CA The Federation of Filipino Rosary Groups will sponsor a fundraiser entitled “Pasko Na Naman 2” on Saturday, December 2 at the Glendale Civic Auditorium (1401 N. Verdugo Road, Glendale, CA 91208) starting at 4 p.m. The presentation’s theme is Salo-salo at Pagdiriwang” which means “getting together joyfully.” The show will provide a glimpse on how Filipinos celebrate Christmas in the Philippines, which will be depicted through choral singing and folk dancing. The performers are Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts, St. Lorenzo Ruiz Parish Choir, Monique Magpayo and Kurt Winterhalter. Benefactors of proceeds include but are not limited to: Channel of Charity, Filipino Priests Association of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, feeding programs and FFRG faith formation events. Come one! Come All! Feel the scents and sights of Filipino Christmas. The audience will also enjoy “merienda cena” during the intermission. Ticket donation is $45.00 per person. For souvenir ad and ticket information, please contact Tess Domingo at (909) 855-2208 or Carol Evangelista at (909) 969-3316.

Free oil filter exchange in Alhambra, CA Attention all Alhambra residents! Free oil filter & motor oil recycling event on Saturday, December 2! Everyone is invited to bring in their used motor oil and used oil filters. All those who recycle their used oil filter will receive one FREE new oil filter. Recycling motor oil and filters helps save our environment and keeps our water clean. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at AutoZone located at 1100 W. Commonwealth Ave., Alhambra, CA 91803.

6th annual grand reunion of the UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America in Whittier, CA Join the 6th Annual Grand Reunion of the UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America on Saturday, December 2. UP High, UP Prep, Elementary and Integrated School alumni are welcome. The reunion will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at DoubleTree by Hilton Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave, Whittier, CA 90602). Tickets cost only $60 per person. Registration starts at 10:30 a.m. Come early! There will be a buffet lunch and entertainment. Seating is limited, so make your reservations now! Contacts: Alice Cabel-Ramos (aramos.us@gmail. com), Bobby Canseco (562-607-8839) or Ellery Atienza (323-497-3492). Find the association on Facebook by searching UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America.

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

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017

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AC 21: Changing the employer of your employment-based greencard application DEAR Attorney Tan, I have an approved I-140 immigrant petition which was filed by Company A on my behalf.

Company A would like to employ me as a bookkeeper. Based on that approved I-140 petition, I filed an application for green card (I-485 adjustment of status) in August 2014. Since that time, my green card application has been pending, as USCIS has requested additional documents in support of my application. Recently, another company, Company B, has expressed interest in hiring me for a payroll clerk position. Company B is a more established company based in the Midwest and pays $10,000.00 less but offers much better benefits. Is there a way I can substitute Company B as the employer in my green card application? --P.T. Dear P.T. Under INA Section 204(j), commonly referred to as AC 21, an approved I-140 employmentbased immigrant petition filed by one employer can be used by or “ported” to another employer providing certain requirements are met. First, a green card (I-485 adjustment of status) application must have been filed and must be pending for at least 180 days.

Second, the “new” job offered by the second employer must be in the same or similar occupational classification as the job for which the first employer filed the I-140 petition.

In your situation, you meet the first requirement in that your application for green card (I485) was filed in August 2014. Your application has been pending for over 1 year, which is more than the required 180 days under AC 21.

In depth analysis in your case is needed as to whether Company B’s job of “payroll clerk” is considered a “similar occupational classification” to Company A’s job of “bookkeeper,” for which Company A petitioned you. In determining whether one job is similar enough to another job for AC 21 purposes, the USCIS takes into account the totality of the circumstances, including the job duties of both positions, the Standard Occupational Code (SOC) from the approved I-140 and the SOC code for the job offered by the new prospective employer, as well as the offered wages for each position.

In your case, analysis would begin with the job duties of each position. The more similarity in job duties between bookkeeper and pay-

roll clerk, the greater the likelihood that USCIS would consider them similar.

Also, the SOC code for the 2 jobs would be taken into account.

In addition, the wages offered by each employer would be considered.

The existence of a big disparity in wages offered by each employer is Darrick V. Tan, Esq. not by itself a reason to conclude that the jobs are not similar. In your case, the fact that Company B is offering $10,000 less than Company A has to take into account the fact that the Midwest has a lower cost of living, as well as the fact that better benefits are being offered by Company B. If it is considered a “similar occupational classification,” Company B may be substituted in as the employer in your pending green card application, and Company B will not have to start the process from the beginning by filing a labor certification application and by obtaining an approved I-140 petition.

The analysis of whether you can use or “port” your approved I-140 requires additional analysis, and consulting with an experienced attorney is recommended. ***

“Under INA Section 204(j), commonly referred to as AC 21, an approved I-140 employment based immigrant petition filed by one employer can be used by or ported to another employer providing certain requirements are met.”

Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philipp ine American Bar Association. *** 3LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: (323) 639-0277.

Email: info@dtanlaw.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

C NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Community Journal

What to do with conditional green card status in troubled marriages

MARRIAGE for many persons is the culmination of one’s life.

Getting married signifies the beginning of a new phase in life, both socially and economically.

For those persons who lack permanent residency in the United States and have married a United States citizen, marriage also presents an opportunity to obtain permanent residency. However, although the opportunity to obtain permanent residency arises in such situations, one must be aware of and comply with procedures in existence to obtain such status. Due to concerns that persons were becoming married to United States citizens merely to obtain permanent residence status, a two-step procedure under the Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments of 1986 (IMFA) was set up to ensure such status was given to those only in marriages that are bona-fide and not entered into simply for immigration purposes.

Under step one of the procedure, if a person is petitioned by his/her U.S. citizen spouse within 24 months after becoming married, that person is given only conditional permanent residence. Such conditional permanent residence status lasts for two years from the date on which it is granted.

Step two of the procedure involves the removal of the conditional label to permanent residence status. Removal of the conditional label is initiated by filing an I-751 Joint Petition to Remove Condition to Permanent Residence (“Joint Petition”). The Joint Petition provides an op-

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes portunity for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) to inquire as to the legitimacy of the marriage after conditional permanent residence is granted. Accordingly, documentation evidencing that the marriage was entered into for bona-fide reasons should be submitted as part of the Joint Petition. The Joint Petition must be filed with the USCIS service center in the 90 days immediately prior to the second anniversary of the granting of conditional permanent residence.

Typically, upon the filing of the Joint Petition, a one-year extension of the conditional permanent residence is granted. The extension affords the USCIS time to schedule an interview with the person seeking permanent residence, and to make a determination as to whether unconditional permanent residence will be granted for a ten-year period.

In cases in which documentation submitted as part of the Joint Petition clearly show that the marriage is bona-fide and not merely for immigration purposes, INS may approve a Joint Petition without an interview.

The procedure described hereinabove applies in situations where the marriage has not been

terminated. Often, the Joint Petition cannot be filed or approved because the marriage, although bona-fide when entered into, has been terminated by divorce. May aliens become threatened of falling out of status once their marriage is in trouble because the spouse often refuse to cooperate or has filed a divorce petition. In such cases there is still hope and the prospect of obtaining unconditional permanent residence status still remains. A waiver of the joint petition requirement may be sought in such cases. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation.

*** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Is the ‘S’ Visa available to you if you...

PAGE C2 t Evidence of the relationship to the principal S nonimmigrant witness or informant (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate) if you are filing for a green card as a derivative beneficiary of an S nonimmigrant; Proof of employment and applicable fees.

Thus, as you can see, the S Visa can give great benefits if you qualify. In response to the terrorist acts of September 11, 2001, Congress passed legislation making permanent a provision that allows aliens with critical information on criminal or terrorist organizations to come into the Unit-

ed States to provide information to law enforcement officials. This legislation (S. 1424) became P.L. 107-45 on October 1, 2001. The law amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide permanent authority for the administration of the “S” visa, which was scheduled to expire on September 13, 2001. On November 29, 2001, Attorney General John Ashcroft announced the “Responsible Cooperators Program” to reach out to individuals who may be eligible for the S visa. The S visa quota allows 200 criminal informants and 50 terrorist informants to be admitted annually to

the U.S. Since FY1995, almost 900 informants and their accompanying family members have entered on S visas. *** Atty. Brian D. Lerner has been an Immigration Attorney for nearly a quarter of a century. He is married to a Filipina and has helped thousands of Filipino families all over the country. In addition to his offices in Southern California in Long Beach and Carson, he has an office in Quezon City. He is a certified specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law by the Legal Board of Specialization, California State Bar. The initial consultation is free. Call (562) 495-0554 and/or send an e-mail to blerner@californiaimmigration.us.

(Advertising Supplement)

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Debt Relief

Atty. LAwrence yAng

THE client is 74. Her husband passed away two years ago. Her only source of income is social security of $2,000 a month, which was her husband’s social security. Her own social security was $1,500 a month. So how come she only has $2,000 of social security and not $2,000 plus $1,500?

Because when you are married to each other, the widow or widower, gets to keep only the higher of the two. Since her social security was $1,500 and her husband’s social security was $2,000, when her husband died, she got to keep the $2,000. However, her own social security disappears! Sad but true — it sucks.

That’s the unfair way that it works.

The client and her deceased husband owned a house with $100,000 of equity. It had a fair market value of $450,000 and a first mortgage balance of $350,000. The mortgage payment was $1,600 a month. So you can see immediately that there’s a problem. Since client inherits the higher social security benefit of $2,000 but loses her own social security benefit of $1,500, after paying the mortgage of $1,600, there’s only $400 left for expenses. The other problem is the client owes $40,000 of credit cards. She needs $1,300 a month of minimum payments to keep these cards current.

Well obviously, she wanted to keep living in the house. So right after husband died, she tried to get a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage pays off the balance of your mortgage like a refinance, but unlike a refinance, she would not have to pay a monthly mortgage payment. She gets to live in the house until she dies.

The balance of the mortgage gets bigger every month because even though she doesn’t have to pay the monthly mortgage, the unpaid mortgage payment is added to the outstanding balance of the loan. If she actually did get a reverse mortgage, she would not have to pay $1,600 a month for mortgage, she can pay zero every month and she can live in the house until she dies.

The problem of getting a reverse mortgage is that there is a maximum limit that it will pay off. That maximum limit is about $300,000. Since client owes $350,000, she is over by $50,000.

Senior needs bankruptcy relief. But Chapter 7 or 13?

This is resolved by paying down the $350,000 to $300,000. In other words, she has to get $50,000 from somewhere then pay down the mortgage to $300,000. After that, the reverse mortgage will pay off the $300,000. It is quite easily done when you are able to get $50,000 from somewhere, however, it is impossible to do when you have no sources to resort to. The client was not able to produce $50,000 so she couldn’t get a reverse mortgage.

So why not sell the house and rent a room for $500 a month?

She doesn’t want to do this.

She’s lived in the house with her husband and children for most of her life, so she wants to live the rest of her life in the house.

Since the client is still perfectly healthy at 72, she may still live to 90, another 20 years. So what does she do? A relative who lives out of state wants to buy a house in California as an investment. She is willing to sell the house to the relative for $100,000 below market and in exchange, the relative agrees to let her stay in the house without paying rent for as long as she wants, or until she passes on.

This is a good deal for the client because she gets to live in the house without having to worry about a mortgage or rent payment. Just as a caveat, if you are thinking of this kind of arrangement, make sure that you create a life estate and record it with the recorder’s office. A life estate is a right to live in the house until you die. Whoever buys the house cannot evict you because of the life estate. The client did not create a life estate but merely relied on the goodwill of the relative who purchased the house. What happens if the relative sells the house? Since there is no life estate, the client will most likely have to start paying rent to the new owner. But let’s hope this never happens until after the client has left this world and spend the rest of eternity with Jesus, God the Father and God the Holy Spirit in heaven.

In Heaven, she can live in a mansion for free because Jesus said that in His Father’s house, there are many mansions where she can stay for free: “In my Father’s house there are many mansions, and if not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?” John 14:2 Our problems on the earth are so many and myriad. Even a place to stay and live is a problem.

In heaven, our loving God provides us with everything for free!

Now that client has lived in the house rent-free for a year, she’s getting tired of using $1,300 from her $2,000 of social security benefits. In the last 12 months, $16,000 from her $24,000 of social security to keep her $40,000 of credit card debts current. Is this a financially sound thing to do for the rest of her life? I don’t think so. She just paid $16,000 in one year, yet she owes the same $40,000 of credit card debt.

If she lives another 20 years, she would have paid her credit card masters $320,000 yet she will still owe the same $40,000!

She’s thought the whole thing over and wants to get rid of the $40,000 cards with a Chapter 7 petition. I would certainly file a Chapter 7 for her to discharge the $40,000, but its really not that simple. The problem is that she sold her house to the relative for a lot less than market value. This is a red flag in Chapter 7. In Chapter 7, the trustee can sue the relative to get the house back. It’s a big problem.

The alternative is a Chapter 13 with the lowest plan payment possible, maybe $250 per month for 60 months. After paying $15,000 of principal, no interest in Chapter 13, the balance $25,000 would be discharged.

She can still have $1,750 of social security left for what she wants to do after the plan payment. Maybe she can take a cruise in Southeast Asia. That’s a good thing to do and enjoy when you’re 72 and still healthy.

If you need debt relief, set an appointment to see me. I will analyze your case personally.

“THE LORD IS NEAR TO ALL WHO CALL ON HIM, TO ALL WHO CALL ON HIM IN TRUTH.” PSALM 145:18 *** Disclaimer: The foregoing is an expression of opinion and is not meant to be legal advice to any reader. There is no attorney-client relationship established by this article with the reader. If you want to discuss your situation, you have to set an appointment to consult with the attorney. The first general consultation is free. *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California.

Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803 or at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789.

(818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 • http://www.asianjournal.com

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 25-28, 2017

People and Events

Applications for $1.2-M Edison scholars program due December 1

High school seniors can pursue $40,000 scholarships ROSEMEAD, Calif. — The clock is ticking, but there’s still time for high school seniors — the makers of tomorrow — to apply for Edison International’s $1.2 million Edison Scholars Program.

Now through Dec. 1, students who dream of making a difference and powering the future using science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) ingenuity, are invited to apply for a $40,000 scholarship — paid over four years — to 30 scholars enrolled in a four-year accredited U.S. college or university after high school graduation. Edison International, the parent company The 30 Edison Scholars in 2017 celebrate their accomplishments with their families at Edison International headquarters.

File photo by Southern California Edison of Southern California Edison, awards the scholarships.

Edison Scholars program.

Applicants must live in SCE’s service terriSince 2006, Edison International has awarded tory and plan to be a full-time undergraduate more than $7.5 million in scholarships toward student majoring in one of the following STEM 580 students’ higher education through the Edifields: mathematics, engineering, computer and son Scholars Program. Edison International is one information services, management information of the largest charitable contributors in Southern systems, natural resources and conservation and California, investing $20 million in local commuphysical sciences. Eligible students must also be nities annually. a high school senior, have at least a cumulative Edison International’s support of charitable 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. The top causes, including the Edison Scholars Program, 100 finalists will be required to submit a short is funded entirely by Edison International sharevideo. Dependents of Edison International and holders. SCE customers’ utility bill payments do SCE employees and retirees are not eligible. not fund company donations. For more informaIn 2017, there were 1,226 applicants for the tion, please visit www.edisonscholars.com. ■

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If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com.

And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice.

The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.

6th annual grand reunion of the UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America

DARE TO INSPIRE. DARE TO LEAD. B E L E G E N D A R Y. DID you attend the UP High, UP Prep, Elementary or Integrated School? (It doesn’t matter whether you graduated or not!) Join the 6th annual grand reunion of the UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America and experience the joy of giving back to your alma mater.

It will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2017 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave, Whittier, CA 90602). Tickets cost only $60 per person. Registration starts at 10:30 a.m. Come early!

Listen and dance to the awe-

some live music of the AMFM Band. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch. Get a chance to bond with your own classmates or get acquainted with other alumni.

Dress code is smart, holiday casual or with UP logo or come in your own batch theme attire!

Seating is limited, so make your reservations now! Contacts: Alice Cabel-Ramos (aramos. us@gmail.com), Bobby Canseco (562-607-8839) or Ellery Atienza (323-497-3492). Find the association on Facebook by searching UPHPEIS Alumni Association of North America. ■

Debt forgiveness...

PAGE C2 t

cies. Also, you may need to file bankruptcy right away if there is an immediate threat to your property or income such as a lawsuit, wage garnishment, bank levy or foreclosure.

And If it’s going to take more than 12-18 months to negotiate settlements with your creditors, in most cases, bankruptcy might be the better way to go. In such case, you might want to seek the advice of an experienced bankruptcy attorney who can evaluate

your situation and help you decide what is best for you.

For a free attorney consultation, call Toll-Free 1-866-4777772. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. *** None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772.

(Advertising Supplement)

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

GLOBAL AMBASSADOR CATEGORIES

10 basics of the IRS...

PAGE C2t

ence. Read our separate article that is loaded with tips on how to prepare for the conference. We also have tips on how to behave during the conference.

9. Again, the appeals conference is one of negotiation. It is not a place to bully your way into a win. If this is your attitude, skip it and go to court. (Up to this point, your forum has been an informal proceeding, one of mediation. It remains as a non-docketed case).

10. If a settlement cannot be reached, the Appeals Office sends a Notice of Deficiency (also referred to as a 90-day letter). Your case becomes a docketed case.

The chief Counsel of the IRS becomes involved. It becomes more expensive to defend as your case moves from informal mediation to the formal jurisdiction of a court where lawyers and CPAs battle in trial before a judge.

A word of caution: unless you know what you doing, do not represent yourself in Appeals. With all due respect to your courage, you are no match for the experienced officers. You might be trying to save a few hundred dollars in fees only to lose thousands in potential savings of tax, penalties, and interests. *** Victor Santos Sy graduated Cum Laude from UE with a BBA and from Indiana State University with an MBA. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV - Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation in Pasadena, California.

*** He has 50 years of experience in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS, FTB, EDD, BOE and other governmental agencies. He is publishing a book on his expertise - “HOW TO AVOID OR SURVIVE IRS AUDITS.” Our readers may inquire about the book or email tax questions at vicsy@ live.com.

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& Thanksgiving is a

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time for giving thanks

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ Thanksgiving is when people step back and reflect on all of the wonderful things and events to be grateful for, and to give thanks to those people who played such a key role in helping us achieve them. at this Thanksgiving, i would like to once again give thanks to all of the people who have been so kind and supportive of me and my immigration law practice.

Thank you to all of my clients.

You are the reason i am able to remain in business. i also know how important your immigration matter is in your life and in the life of your family. i appreciate your trust and confidence in my office, in allowing us to handle such an important matter.

Thank you to the entire Filipino community. i truly appreciate your warmth and support, and i thank you for all of your letters and emails telling me how you enjoy my articles and television show, Citizen Pinoy. i am happy to be of service to you, and i will continue to support Filipino events and causes.

Thank you to aBs-CBn, TFC, and the entire crew of Citizen

Pinoy, who share my vision of providing a public-service program to the Filipino community concerning immigration information. it makes me so proud and happy when people come up to me, saying they watch Citizen Pinoy every single week, and have learned so much from the real life stories and questions and answers presented. i thank all the crew of Citizen Pinoy for their hard work, dedication, and passion for this worthy public service.

Thank you to all of our friends in the media, who through their prestigious publications, enabled us to reach those who need our services and inform the Filipino community about newsworthy immigration information.

You serve as an avenue to help “BRing FaMiLiEs TOgEThER” and help “MakE ThE aMERiCan DREaM COME TRUE.” Thank you to my staff. Your tireless efforts and dedication to our clients are the main reasons we can continue to provide quality service to our many loyal clients.

Thank you to my wife, Millie.

People say that behind every successful man, there is a Filipina wife. after many years of mar-

riage, i know it’s true. Words cannot express my gratitude for your help, support and dedication to our business. You are the “wind beneath my wings.” and most of all, thank you to the almighty. Without his blessings, benevolence, and guidance, none of this would be possible.

May he allow me to continue to assist people with their problems, and allow the prayers of all people to be answered and fulfilled. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

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Filipinos’ wealth declines in 2017 as inequality widens ManiLa — Filipinos’ total wealth declined in 2017, according to a report by Credit suisse that also shows slightly increasing wealth inequality in the country.

The swiss bank’s annual global wealth report revealed the Philippines’ total wealth depleted to $593 billion in 2017, lower than 2016’s $607 billion.

Credit suisse uses three components to gauge wealth—financial assets (like stocks and bonds), non-financial assets (like property) and debt.

Based on the report’s wealth estimates, financial assets owned by each adult in the country receded to $3,746 in mid-2017 from $3,971 last year. On the contrary,

non-financial wealth per adult climbed to $6,485 from $6,354.

Debt per adult likewise surged to $458 from $447. in terms of wealth distribution, only 0.1 percent of the Philippines’ adult population have fortunes amounting to over $1 million. On the other hand, 86.6 percent of PAGE D2

Business Quote of the Week “People who succeed have momentum. The more they succeed, the more they want to succeed, and the more they find a way to succeed.

Similarly, when someone is failing, the tendency is to get on a downward spiral that can even become a self-fulfilling prophecy.”

- Tony Robbins, entrepreneur and life coach

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6.9% economic growth attainable SMC to sell 30% of food, beverages business

by MayvelIn

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

FuLL-YEAR economic growth could come in just below 7 percent given better-than-expected third quarter results, a Cabinet official said on Wednesday, November 22.

“I would say that maybe a 6.9 percent full-year growth rate is attainable,” Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said in a press briefing in Manila.

Third quarter growth of 6.9 percent surpassed expectations of a 6.6 expansion at most. Results for the second quarter were also revised upwards and year-to-date growth, at 6.7 percent, kept the country on track to hitting the 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent target for 2017.

If correct, Diokno’s forecast would match the 6.9 percent result posted in 2016.

Growth drivers that allowed the Philippine economy to beat market expectations, he said, were ro-

bust government disbursements, strong government consumption and the ambitious “Build Build Build” infrastructure program.

On the demand side, the government’s final consumption expenditure rose by 8.3 percent, higher than the 3.1 percent posted in the third quarter of 2016 and the 7.1 percent seen in the second quarter of this year.

In effect, government spending accounted for 0.9 percentage points of the 6.9 percent growth rate in the third quarter, Diokno said.

He added that the data also indicated that the “Build Build Build” program was well underway.

Infrastructure and other capital outlays reached P142.1 billion, exceeding the P137.8 billion programmed for the third quarter and rising by 15.4 percent yearon-year.

“The economic expansion and growth in government spending

is laudable, especially for a postelection year,” Diokno claimed.

This can be attributed to expansionary fiscal policy and more efficient utilization of resources, he added.

“Looking ahead, the Department of Budget and Management will ensure that government spending will provide a muchneeded boost to economic development,” the Budget chief said.

Fourth quarter expenditure growth, he said, would remain driven by infrastructure and capital spending by implementing agencies, plus personnel services owing to the release of year-end bonuses and higher maintenance and operating expenditures for social protection programs.

“Rest assured that we will exert all efforts to meet our fourth quarter targets, and ultimately, our P2.909 trillion disbursement target for FY 2017,” Diokno said.

Sweden interested in building PH airports by reICelene Joy IGnaCIo ManilaTimes.net

THE Swedish government is committed to partner with the Philippines in building airports, a European union (Eu) official said on Wednesday, November 22.

In a speech during the Philippines-Sweden Collaboration Seminar, Eu Affairs and Trade State Secretary Oscar Stenstrom said Stockholm would reopen its embassy in Manila to show how serious it is about this commitment.

According to him, the partner-

ship aims to show the commitment of the Swedish government to implement its plan on export strategy. The Philippines is one of the Scandinavian country’s 26 strategic markets.

“We hope [Ttransportation] Secretary Arthur Tugade would visit Sweden early next year to formalize the partnership in the area of sustainable airport development,” Stenstrom said.

He also said Tugade and Swedish Minister for Enterprise and Innovation Mikael Damberg had committed to cooperate in

and exchange knowledge on the transportation sector and related infrastructure areas.

For his part, Transportation undersecretary for Aviation Manuel Tamayo encouraged Swedish companies to invest in the Philippines, and assured them of a corruption-free process.

“Now is the best time to invest in the Philippines. We assure you [that there’s no]corruption. The business processes are not only streamlined, but also expedited,” Tamayo said.

by IrIs

Gonzales Philstar.com

MANILA, — The consolidated company for the food and beverage businesses of San Miguel Corp., the diversified conglomerate, will sell up to 30 percent to foreign investors to raise roughly $3 billion which could fund a war chest for future investments.

SMC president and COO Ramon Ang said the sale would be done through a private placement next year.

“We will sell the consolidated company – we will sell 30 percent to raise an estimated $3 billion,” Ang told reporters on the sidelines of the annual stockholders meeting of Eagle Cement Corp., a company owned by his family.

Ang said he is in talks with a foreign company which has expressed interest in investing in the business.

Asked why he was opening the consolidated company to investors, he said it’s to share the benefit to

SMC president and COO Ramon Ang said the sale would be done through a private placement next year.

Philstar.com photo

more people.

SMC is consolidating its food and beverage businesses into San Miguel Pure Foods Co. which will be renamed as San Miguel Food and Beverage Inc. This will be done through a P336 billion swap of its shares in beer and other beverage business.

According to the plan, SMC shall subscribe to 4.24 billion additional common shares of stock of Pure Foods. The common shares will be issued by Purefoods from the increase of its authoritized capital stock.

The transaction value is based on the independent transaction value of ING Bank with Standard Chartered Bank as the transaction adviser.

As full payment for the transaction, SMC will convey its 7.85 billion common shares in its beer subsidiary San Miguel Brewery Inc. EU Affairs and Trade State Secretary Oscar (SBM) and 216.9 million common Stenstrom ManilaTimes.net photo shares of Ginebra San Miguel Inc. to Purefoods.

However, SMC said it would have to file before the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) a request for a tax-free ruling relating to the exchange by the company of SMB and Ginebra common shares for the new shares of Purefoods.

SMC and Purefoods will notify the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), the government’s anti-trust body of the transaction and the non-application of the requirement to obtain PCC approval to proceed with the transaction.

The conglomerate will, likewise, obtain the relevant consents and approvals of the corporate regulator, the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as the Philippine Stock Exchange, related to the listing by Purefoods of the new shares.

As part of the transaction, Purefoods is amending the company’s primary purpose to include engagement in the alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage business.

After approval, from the SEC, Purefoods’ authorised capital stock will be increased to P12 billion divided into 11.6 billion common shares with a par value of P1 per share and 40 million preferred shares with a par value of P10 per share, according to the disclosure of Purefoods.

Purefoods will hold a special stockholders meeting for the approval of the amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and the share swap transaction on Jan. 18, 2018.

Inequality has slightly widened in the past year in the Philippines, where only 0.1 percent of the adult population has wealth of more than $1 million.

Infographic by Philstar.com

Filipinos’ wealth declines in 2017...

PAGE D1 Filipino adults has wealth worth below $10,000.

This brought the country’s Gini percentage—a commonly used measure of wealth inequality expressed as a number from 0 to 100, where a higher number indicates a more unequal distribution of wealth—to 83.9 percent, a tad higher than 2016’s 83.4 percent.

Among high net worth individuals here, only 12 Filipino adults have wealth reaching over $1 billion.

Population rise in the Philippines has also outpaced wealth growth, with the country’s mean wealth per adult falling to $9,773 in 2017 from 2016’s $9,878.

Global wealth Meanwhile, in the year to mid2017, total global wealth rose at a rate of 6.4 percent, the fastest pace since 2012 and reached $280 trillion, a gain of $16.7 trillion.

“This reflected widespread gains in equity markets matched by similar rises in non-financial assets, which moved above the pre-crisis year 2007’s level for the first time this year,” Credit Suisse said.

However, looking at the bottom of wealth distribution, 3.5 billion people—corresponding to 70 percent of all adults in the world—own less than $10,000, the Swiss bank reported.

The world’s top 1 percent held 45.5 percent of all household wealth in 2000. Now, they hold 50.1 percent.

“Those with low wealth tend to be disproportionately found among the younger age groups,

who have had little chance to accumulate assets, but we find that Millennials face particularly challenging circumstances compared to other generations,” the report said.

“While the bottom half of adults collectively own less than 1 percent of total wealth, the richest decile (top 10 percent of adults) owns 88 percent of global assets, and the top percentile alone accounts for half of total household wealth,” it added.

The “Paradise Papers” leaks this month re-ignited heated debates over wealth inequality after it shed light on how some of the world’s wealthiest shelter their fortune in tax havens.

The leaked documents reveal offshore interests, financial dealings and activities of politicians and world leaders not privy to the wider public.

Some of the patterns have exposed tax engineering and shopping sprees of major corporations around the world to reduce taxes in their home countries.

The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, which released the database composed of 13.4 million files noted, however, that there are legitimate uses for offshore companies and trusts.

“We do not intend to suggest or imply that any people, companies or other entities included in the ICIJ Offshore Leaks Database have broken the law or otherwise acted improperly,” the group of investigative journalists said. — Infographic by Jonathan Asuncion

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While ASEAN integration will lead to a large number of industry players, and consequently stiffer competition, bloc members should be able to standardize the quality of the goods and services in a way that these would complement, not compete, with one another. Inquirer.net photo

ASEAN integration to benefit PH printing industry

by AnnA LeAh

e. GonzALes ManilaTimes.net

The Philippine printing industry can take advantage of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASeAN) economic integration with the regional bloc’s members now looking at more trade in this field, thanks to lower tariffs, capital restrictions, and entry barriers in the region, a Board of Investments (BOI) official said on Tuesday, November 21.

“Within ASeAN, we have an economic integration in full swing. As home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world today, there exists a potentially lucrative market opportunity for printing companies” in light of Southeast Asia’s 600 million predominantly young population, BOI Governor Napoleon Concepcion said in a speech at the ASeAN Printing Forum at the City of Dreams Manila’s Crown Towers Manila hotel in Parañaque City. he said that, while ASeAN integration will lead to a large number of industry players, and consequently stiffer competition, bloc members should be able to standardize the quality of the goods and services in a way that these would complement, not compete, with one another.

“As one big regional market, we need to come together to become more cost-efficient and more quality-conscious. We also need to plan and anticipate the demand of goods and services from nonASeAN [members]. We note that various global reports recognize the strong growth in most product categories of printing in Southeast Asia,” Concepcion said.

“With the printing [sector]on a positive growth path, we should be aware of opportunities and challenges, so that we can [take advantage of]the potential for bigger revenues and employment for our respective economies.

Clearly, it is important that we understand that it is only through a positive and cooperative strategy that we can ensure that our

individual countries, and the [Southeast Asian printing industry in general], will remain relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving market,” he added.

The BOI governor, however, said that while there is plenty of growth opportunties for the printing industry, its players should be able to adapt to changing market conditions. he noted that they’re being affected by the rise of digital media.

“On a broader front, [industry players in Southeast Asia] know that if they want to succeed in the long term, they must continue to adapt to ever-changing market and economic conditions. Companies must be able to perform a variety of functions, including printing on paper, plastic, metal, glass and other materials, and typically produce different forms of literature, packaging and labels.

This needs a deliberate approach to efficiency and automation, while at the same time learning new skills and adding new value services,” Concepcion said.

“Like any industry, printing is primarily affected by the dynamics of the supply and value chain, and for ASeAN to be competitive, it is important to examine the quality of human resources, capital resources, and technology utilized in the production of goods or in the delivery of services,” he added.

“There is a need to adopt product mix changes with a greater share of higher-value products in growth areas like packaging, while recognizing that the publication and commercial sectors are transitioning as demand shifts from paper media to digital devices. [In] the past couple of years, commercial printers have faced increasing competition from digital media.

As [they]increasingly replace traditional media and broadband connectivity improves and mobile media connections [increase], we believe that printing companies in [Southeast Asia] must be [adept

in adapting]to the needs of the industry,” Concepcion said. “having said that, we know that there are clear indications of how big the task is to have standardized procedures [and]practices in printing and related services among [Asean members]. We understand that we have a lot of work to do before we bridge the gap between the top-performing nations and the developing economies in [the region]. This is why we need the printing industry in [Southeast Asia] to unite. The leaders of the major printing associations in the region should work together and push for a common agenda and make competitiveness and innovation a priority for the [region’s] printing industry,” he added.

In the case of the Philippines, Concepcion said one of the challenges facing the printing industry is “people not wanting to read anymore.” Other growth-inhibiting factors include managerial and technical personnel lacking formal training, and inadequate investment in new technology.

“For equipment, you buy a new one and then, after a few months, a new one will be released again.

Our industry needs to update.

That’s why we are emphasizing that they need to collaborate, that sometimes you don’t have to buy the latest. You don’t have to be on all the time. Take a breather and then invest again. With the advent of computer technology, things really change fast,” he said.

There is also a need to review the country’s printing industry roadmap to take into consideration the newest trends in the industry.

“The roadmap was already overtaken [by developments].

It’s still relevant, as it gives you direction, but we need to update it,” Concepcion said, adding that Philippine printers should be able to “repackage” themselves. he also assured that the government will address the concerns of local printers, saying that it would help them.

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House OKs bill on ease of doing business

by Jess

Diaz Philstar.com

MANILA — The House of Representatives has unanimously approved on third and final reading a bill that seeks to ease doing business in any part of country.

Bill 6579, “An act establishing a national policy on ease of doing business, creating for the purpose the Ease of Doing Business Commission, and for other purposes, prescribes a processing time of one working day for barangays, and three working days for national agencies and other LGUs in case of simple applications and 10 working days for “complex” issuances.”

Under the measure, national government agencies issuing any kind of permit, license or clearance, and local government units (LGUs), including barangays, shall post in their offices and websites a list of requirements for such issuances, and a step-by-step procedure in applying for them.

For other complicated permits or licenses that require extensive evaluation, the bill fixes a

maximum processing time of 30 working days.

In case the application is denied, the agency or LGU shall state the reason for the denial and remedial measures open to the applicant.

Licenses or permits shall be valid for a period not shorter than one year.

As far as practicable, national agencies and LGUs are mandated to establish a one-stop shop for the processing of business permits or licenses.

The bill creates a sevenmember commission that will oversee the implementation of the proposed national policy on ease of doing business.

It will be composed of a chairperson appointed by the President, and one representative each from the small, micro, medium, and large business sectors.

The Secretary of Trade and Industry and Secretary of Finance would sit in the commission as ex-officio members.

The measure provides penalties for violators: suspension for 30 days without pay for the first offense, suspension for three

months without pay for the second violation and dismissal, perpetual disqualification from public office and forfeiture of benefits for the third offense.

Bill 6579 is a consolidation of seven related measures authored by Vilma Santos-Recto of Batangas, Luis Raymund Villafuerte of Camarines Sur, Ferjenel Biron of Iloilo, Arthur Yap of Bohol, Gus Tambunting of Parañaque, Manuel Zubiri of Bukidnon, and Winston Castelo of Quezon City.

Villafuerte, a businessman before seeking public office, said the country is the 171st in the world out of 185 countries surveyed this year in terms of ease of doing business.

He said most of the reasons cited are difficulties in getting business permits and clearances.

Castelo said investors often encounter problems with the bureaucracy in starting a business.

“The tedious business regulations not only discourage investors but also make it hard for small and medium enterprises to flourish,” he said.

China’s top 3 telcos interested in Philippines

by RichmonD

meRcuRio Philstar.com

MANILA — China’s big three telecommunications companies are interested to enter the Philippine market, a move that could potentially put an end to the “duopoly” that has been a concern among many consumers.

China’s telecom market is currently served by three staterun operators namely China Mobile Ltd., China Telecom and China Unicom.

“They are all interested in the Philippines,” International Chamber of Commerce Philippines founding chairman and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman emeritus Francis Chua told The Star.

“They have visited the Philippines before and are in contact with us,” added Chua, who is in charge of his organizations’ relations with their counterparts in China.

Chua said any of the three Chinese telecom players could be a good contender in the Philippine market.

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“It is up to our government to choose the best one for us,” he added.

All three companies rank among the world’s 25 biggest telecom companies list by Forbes in 2017. China Mobile ranked third, China Telecom ninth, and China Unicom 24th.

During his bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang last week, President Duterte offered China the privilege to operate as the third telecom carrier in the country, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said yesterday, November 21.

Duterte has long been calling for a third telco player in the Philippines so that consumers can enjoy better mobile and internet service.

The entry of a new player, however, is not seen as a problem by businessman Manuel Pangilinan, chairman and CEO of telco giant PLDT Inc., who earlier said his group was open to the entry of new players in the industry.

“We’re not averse to anyone coming in whatever shape or

form. I say that with all sincerity. They are welcome. This is a free economy and we’re not going to take any steps to oppose it because again we don’t want to be accused of maintaining this duopoly because they are tracing that to the poor internet service and complaints,” Pangilinan said.

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), for its part, is also backing the entry of a new telecom player in the country, saying this will result in better quality of service for customers.

The country’s competition authority believes that both industry and the government can implement ways to improve the country’s internet speed.

“On PCC’s part, our role is to foster competition in the telecom market. This means opening up the market to more players and leveling the playing field between incumbents and entrants, between big and small players. This translates to more choices, better quality, and affordable services to consumers,” the PCC said.

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