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w w w. a s i a n Volume 24 - No. 46 • 2 Sections - 16 Pages

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

DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 Also published in LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

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Palace tells Duterte supporters, critics: DATELINE USA Over 200 companies Revolutionary government ‘not needed’ FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

urge FCC to maintain net neutrality

MORE than 200 businesses and organizations have signed and released a joint open letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Monday, November 27, urging it to maintain net neutrality regulations.

The letter comes three weeks ahead of December 14, the date during which the FCC intends to vote on rolling back current net neutrality rules. Advocates of net neutrality say doing so will remove protections that ensure a free and open internet.

Included in the letter’s large list of companies are Airbnb, Automattic (owner of WordPress), Codeacademy, Github, Pinterest, Tumblr (despite being owned by Verizon), Sonos, Square, Squarespace, and Twitter to name a few. These companies join other giants like Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google who have openly advocated for net neutrality.

The letter was fittingly released on Cyber Monday, a day the letter called a “testament to the power of the free and open internet”. It cites that $400 billion in online sales were made in

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

AS far as Malacañang is concerned, both supporters and critics of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte were making a “big deal” out of the revolutionary government issue.

“So it’s actually a combination of some supporters of the president and the opposition making a big deal out of this revolutionary government,” Palace Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

During the 145th birth anniversary of Filipino hero Andres Bonifacio

on Thursday, November 30, groups with clashing views on the idea of establishing a revolutionary government staged rallies in several parts of the country.

While the president “appreciates” his supporters’ gestures of solidarity with him, Roque underscored that Duterte himself “has repeatedly said there is no basis and there is no need for a revolutionary government for now.”

“Even if there are government officials there, that is their personal PAGE A2

Vice President Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo (2nd from left), Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (left), Dr. Rene Escalante (3rd fom left), Mayor Oscar Malapitan, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero and other government officials lead the flag raising ceremony during the 154th birth anniversay of Gat Andres Bonifacio held at the Caloocan Monument on Thursday, Nov. 30.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

PAGE A4

Republican tax bill discussions continue, inches closer to passage

Sen. Grace Poe

Poe to Duterte: Don’t step down, finish your term M A by

Experts warn against the repercussions of yet another “trickle-down” system

AFTER the failed attempts to reconstruct the American healthcare system, Congressional Republicans might be closer to their first major legislative victory in the Trump era with their overhaul of the tax system.

On the morning of Thursday, November 30, the Senate convened to continue discussions of the bill after it passed the preliminary vote through the Senate Budget Committee on Tuesday, as previously reported by the Asian Journal.

The original House bill — the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act — was met with much criticism upon introduction earlier this year. The bill detailed major tax cut for corporations, whose tax rate would drop from 35 percent to 20 percent.

The Senate version retains the seven-bracket system for individuals (currently: 10 percent, 15 percent, 25 percent, 28 percent, 33 percent, 35 percent, and 39.6 percent.), but lowers the rates for all but two thresholds (10 percent, 12 percent, 22 percent, 24 percent, 32 percent, 35 percent and 38.5 percent).

PAGE A2

Inquirer.net photo

MEDAL OF HONOR. President Rodrigo Duterte confers the Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal to the wounded soldiers at the Army General Hospital in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday, November 21. The president awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal to the wounded soldiers who took part in the anti-terror operations in Marawi City and to those who were wounded in separate encounters with lawless armed groups. During his speech, Duterte reiterated his assurance that he will improve the operational capabilities of the military.

Malacañang photo by Ruji Abat

AILA GER Inquirer.net

SENATOR Grace Poe has this friendly advice to President Rodrigo Duterte, who has repeatedly expressed his readiness to resign from his post: Just finish your term.

This after Duterte made a remark on Tuesday, Nov. 28, that he would like Poe to become president someday but the Constitution must be amended first to allow foundlings like her to run for the post.

PAGE A2

Revilla: Plunder evidence points to Napoles and Cambe, not me FORMER Senator Bong Revilla Jr. has asked the Sandiganbayan to dismiss his P224.5-million plunder case, saying the Ombudsman’s evidence could only implicate his chief-ofstaff Richard Cambe or businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles – but not him directly.

Revilla through his lawyer, former SolicitorGeneral Estelito Mendoza, raised these arguments as he asked the First Division to grant him leave to file a demurrer and release him from detention after three and a half years.

The actor-politician was accused of receiv-

ing kickbacks, through Cambe, in exchange for his endorsement of Napoles-linked nongovernment organizations for projects funded by his Priority Development Assistance Fund.

In a 57-page motion, Revilla said the “ones solely responsible” for what turned out to be “ghost projects” were “Benhur Luy and his fellow whistleblowers under the direction and management of Napoles.”

He said there was “not a scintilla or iota of evidence” regarding his part or knowledge

u PAGE A2

Former Senator Bong Revilla and his lawyer Estelito Mendoza at the Sandiganbayan.

Inquirer.net photo

PH, US soldiers hold Salaknib exercises PH, US begin discussions on bilateral free trade

REINFORCING the decades-long military partnership between the Philippines and the United States, Filipino soldiers and their American counterparts recently conducted a 12day joint exercise in different parts of Luzon.

The Salaknib exercise was conducted from November 16 to 27 in preparation for the annual Balikatan military exercises in May next year, according to the U.S. Embassy in Manila.

In a statement on Tuesday, November 28, the U.S. Embassy said the Philippine and U.S. troops hold 12-day lessons and exercises in Salaknib, a program that troops “participated in subject matter expert exchanges and practical exeraims to boost the decades-long military alliance between Manila and Washington.

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy in Manila cises.”

“The American and Filipino soldiers shared information such as gunnery procedures and maintenance for the M113 Armored Personnel Carrier, artillery tactics and processes,” the embassy added.

The two forces also had a study and validation of the PA Sustainment Functional Concept Document, which “establishes a common framework to guide developments for sustaining future Army operations.”

To demonstrate their new skills, the Philippine troopers then fired artillery and M113 gunnery.

“These exchanges of information

u PAGE A2

by AJPRESS SEVERAL weeks since the conclusion of the first bilateral meeting between Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and United States President Donald Trump, officials begun exploring the proposed bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Manila and Washington.

In a meeting held under the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA), officials on Thursday, November

29, discussed how to enhance the economic relationship between the two countries.

According to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo, who led the Philippine delegation to the TIFA meeting, among the topics discussed during the meeting include the Philippines’ proposed bilateral FTA with the U.S. PAGE A2

A

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

december 1-7, 2017 • Oc/Ie ASIAN JOUrNAL

From the Front Page

Palace tells Duterte supporters...

PAGE A1

belief. I am the spokesperson of the president and I am conveying to you the president’s position. There is no need for a revolutionary government,” he added.

Concerning the opposition’s view on the matter, the Palace official encouraged the president’s critics to “move on” and

just “find other issues” to tackle.

Roque also dismissed rumors that Duterte would declare a revolutionary government on November 30.

“For the opposition, wala na ba kayong isyu pagdating dito sa (don’t you have other issues except for this) revolutionary government? Dahil di umano at

ayon sa kanila, ngayong araw daw magdedeklara ng (Because according to them, today will be the declaration of the) revolutionary government,” Roque remarked.

He then stressed: “Wala pong revolutionary government (There’s no such thing as revolutionary government).”

Roque likewise told Vice President Leni Robredo that there is no reason to be alarmed by Duterte’s call to revamp the government.

“With all due respect to the vice president, I do not see what is alarming because the president has time and again said that he will only resort to revolutionary government kapag (if) supposed, kapag lupaypay na iyong gobyerno, ‘pag naghihingalo na iyong gobyerno (the government became weak, crestfallen),” the Palace official noted.

“And of course, hindi naman ganyan ang nangyayari sa gobyerno ngayon (the government is not in that condition right now),” he added.

Earlier on the same day, Robredo expressed alarm over rallies supporting a revolutionary government as she noted that such declaration violates the Constitution.

“Nakakabahala ito, kasi... kapag sinabi kasing revolutionary government, gusto mong isantabi iyong Konstitusyon (This is alarming because when you say revolutionary government, you want to set aside the Constitution). Ito, ano ito, laban ito sa mga existing na batas, kaya nakakabahala na (This is against the existing laws, so it is alarming),” the vice president said.

Several times in his public remarks, Duterte has warned that he would declare a revolutionary government if the country descends into chaos amid what he believes are efforts of his political opponents to topple him from power.

But early in November, Duterte said he would not declare a revolutionary government after the military expressed against supporting his plan. The president then said that Robredo was “correct” and that the military must “listen” to her regarding the issue. n

MAKING TRAFFIC LIGHT. Ramiro Hinojas dances as he directs traffic along Macapagal Ave. in Pasay city on Tuesday. Metro Manila residents are bracing for headache-inducing traffic jams as the Christmas holiday nears.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Bob Dungo Jr.

Poe to Duterte: Don’t step down, finish your term PAGE A1 “Unang-una ako ay nagpapasalamat sa tiwala ng ating Pangulo. Malaking bagay yan personally at politically at salamat sa pagpapahalaga sa mga foundlings. Pero ang ating Pangulo ang pinili ng ating mga kababayan at dapat tapusin nya ang kanyang termino. (First of all, I thank our president for his trust.

It’s a big thing, personally and politically, and thank you also for putting importance on foundlings.

But, the president was chosen by the people and he should finish his term),” Poe told reporters on Wednesday, Nov. 29.

The senator reminded Duterte that he was elected by Filipinos for a six-year term and that he

should finish it.

So when asked if the President should just drop his Charter change (Cha-Cha) initiatives so he could step down, Poe said: “Basta ako kasi naniniwala ako na sagrado ang boto ng ating mga kababayan. So kung ikaw ay itinalaga ng anim na taon, dapat talaga na tapusin mo yung termino na yun. (I believe our people’s votes are sacred. So, if you were voted into leadership for six years, you should finish your term.)”

“Kung kelangan talaga natin magkaroon ng Charter change, sabi ko nga dapat hindi padalosdalos at siguro pagkatapos na ng kanyang termino. (If we really need a Charter change, I said that it should not be rushed and

maybe do it after our president’s term),” she added.

Poe said her being a foundling should not be used as a reason to change the entire Constitution.

Besides, she pointed out that no less than the Supreme Court had already ruled that foundlings like her could run for the post.

“Pagdating sa mga ampon na katulad ko at mga foundlings, sa tingin ko naman malinaw na ang naging decision ng Korte Suprema. Ako’y nagpapasalamat dito na mismo na rin ang ating Pangulo ay iginagalang ito. (When it comes to adopted children like me, and foundlings, I think the decision of the Supreme Court is clear. I am thankful that even our president acknowledges it),” she said. n

Revilla: Plunder evidence points to Napoles...

PAGE A1

that the NGOs would not implement his PDAF-funded projects.

The motion claimed the Ombudsman investigators asked local government officials “leading questions” portraying Revilla himself to be the one who gave away the agricultural projects.

Kickbacks from Cambe?

As for the kickbacks, Revilla claimed that “no evidence” was presented that these amounts really ended up with him even if Cambe allegedly received kickbacks on his behalf.

“The answer is apparently not disputed: ZERO,” read his motion.

For him, the prosecution only “endeavored to prove… the amount of ‘kickbacks or commissions’ received by Cambe and that the amount was received in behalf of Revilla,” without tracing the money trail.

“Revilla does not admit the amount allegedly received by Cambe, and empathically denies that whatever that amount may be, that Cambe received it in his behalf,” the motion read.

The motion also cited the court’s Dec. 1, 2014 resolution denying Revilla’s bail petition.

It was quoted as saying “there are no direct proofs that [he] received commissions/rebates out of the proceeds of his PDAF… but the circumstances persuasively attest that accused Revilla on several occasions received money from the illegitimate deals.”

Focusing just on the lack of direct proof, Revilla took this to mean that the court made “a finding only as to the amount received

by Cambe,” but not him.

No criminal act?

The motion also argued that the Ombudsman failed to meet the requirement of Republic Act No. 7080, or the plunder law, to show the “overt and criminal act” through which Revilla could have amassed ill-gotten wealth.

On the contrary, he reiterated that his act of endorsing PDAF projects could not be “criminal” because this was authorized and required by pertinent legislation and regulations of the Department of Budget and Management.

Among the evidence that could be robbed of “probative value” on this ground was the testimony of Anti-Money Laundering Council bank officer Leigh Von Santos, Revilla said.

Prosecutors cited the AMLC report on the Revilla family’s bank transactions in claiming they made numerous deposits of at least P87.63 million from 2006 to 2010 within 30 days from the dates when the senator allegedly received his commissions as listed in Luy’s ledger.

The former legislator also argued that AMLC never asked the Court of Appeals to issue a freeze order on his or his family’s accounts on the ground of unlawful activity.

Below P50-million threshold?

Revilla added the case would be hard-pressed to meet the P50-million threshold for a plunder conviction.

The bail ruling earlier stated that P103 million of the amount was “strongly proven” thanks to the whistleblowers’ testimony on personal knowledge.

Yet, Revilla argued this could be pared down to only P36.5 mil-

lion, as the other P66.5-million tranches were not supported by his endorsement letters or Special Allotment Release Orders.

Napoles and Cambe already filed their respective motions for leave to file their demurrers ahead of Revilla on Nov. 24.

A demurrer tests the sufficiency of the prosecution evidence without rebuttal by the defense. If the court grants the demurrer, the trial would be cut short and the accused would be acquittal without having to present his own evidence.

While Revilla is the sole politician to remain detained for plunder since the Ombudsman began filing the serious charges in June 2014, four other plunder cases remain pending in the Sandiganbayan.

The other cases were filed against Estrada (P183.8 million) and former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile (P172.8 million), as well as former Association of Philippine Electric Cooperatives party-list Rep. Edgar Valdez (P95 million) and Masbate 3rd Dist. Rep. Rizalina Seachon-Lanete (P108.4 million).

Mendoza had previously secured the freedom of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, whom the Supreme Court acquitted of plunder in July 2016, and Enrile, whom the SC allowed to post bail on humanitarian grounds on August 2015 while his plunder case is pending. Another high-profile client, resigned President Joseph Estrada, was convicted of plunder in September 2007 but pardoned by Arroyo a month later. (Nestor Corrales/ Inquirer.net)

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy in Manila

PH, US soldiers hold Salaknib...

Part B of the exercise is set for April 2018. and practical exercises serve as According to Philippine Army a foundation for future training,” spokesman Lt. Col. Rey Tiongson, the U.S. Embassy said.

Salaknib is an Ilocano word meanThe Salaknib exercises were ing “Protector”. held different venues—among of “This is just a small scale exerwhich include Camp O’Donnell cise. It deals on the interoperabilin Capas, Tarlac; Fort Magsaysay ity of both Armies, a small-scale in Palayan City, Nueva Ecija; and Balikatan,” added Tiongson.

Fort Bonifacio in Taguig.

Balikatan, which means “shoulPAGE A1

der to shoulder,” is considered as the largest joint military exercise between the Philippines and U.S. bound by the Mutual Defense Treaty.

It focuses on “partnership, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities, Philippine capability development and military modernization.” (Dana Sioson/AJPress)

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Dateline USa

Republican tax bill discussions continue, inches...

PAGE A1 By contrast, the House bill condenses the system into four brackets: 12 percent, 25 percent, 35 percent and 39.6 percent; this would raise the tax rate for the lowest income-earners.

In accordance to Senate rules, the Senate bill eliminates the individual tax provisions that help the middle class, including the child tax credit and lower tax rates at each income bracket, as a way to avoid driving up the deficit.

However, the Joint Committee on Taxation said on Thursday that the Senate bill will add $1 trillion to the deficit over the next ten years, even with economic growth.

Moreover, the committee said that any form of economic growth will offset only $407 billion of the $1.5 trillion cost, further muddying the Republican stance that the bill will not add to the federal budget.

Much like the Reagan-era “trickle-down” economics, Republicans promise that passing the biggest corporate tax in American history will catalyze an economic boom that will generate more jobs and more income for the middle class.

To the event in which the economy doesn’t grow fast enough for the GOP’s projections to flourish, several GOP senators pushed for a “trigger” which would automatically boost taxes, as previously reported in the Asian Journal.

Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) said on Thursday that a trigger would “avoid a situation where you’re not creating deficits should the projections that have been laid out not be real.”

Additionally, the trigger would hopefully stop the federal deficit from increasing, which many lawmakers are afraid the GOP bills would do.

Economists, however, argue that lowering the tax rate won’t necessarily ignite a jobs boom that will boost the incomes of middle-class Americans. Instead, a likely scenario could involve returning the extra revenue to corporate shareholders.

“Frankly, I think they are bonkers,” David Mendels, former CEO of software firm Brightcove, told Politico. “It doesn’t really work that way. No CEO sits there and says, ‘When my tax rate goes down, I’m going to hire more people and pay them more.’”

How likely is it to pass?

Democrats are currently fighting to halt the bill’s passage, but due to the Republican control of

both chambers, their efforts carry little weight.

Since the debate on the legislation is only limited to 20 hours of deliberation, a Democratic filibuster is unlikely, a feat Republicans were seeking to bypass.

Contents of the bill are expected to change within that 20-hour window with Republicans looking to compromise differences held by party leaders.

Republicans remain confident that the bill will pass, but have yet to hear confirmation from a few key Republicans who have committed support.

Previously, the passage of the bill was a concern due to misgivings by key Republican lawmakers, including Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska); all three had rejected several versions of the rebuffed GOP health care bill.

However, on Tuesday, McCain, who previously wavered on his support, confirmed that he’d vote “yes” on the bill.

“I believe this legislation, though far from perfect, would enhance American competitiveness, boost the economy and provide long-overdue tax relief for middle-class families,” the 2008 Republican presidential candidate said in a statement.

Murkowski is also expected to vote “yes.”

Collins, who (like McCain) hasn’t shied away from voting against her party, said she remains concerned about the effect to repeal the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) mandate. She also remains unsure about the provision that ensures that taxpayers can deduct some state and local taxes, a measure known as SALT. The current version of the bill eliminates the Obamacare mandate and doesn’t clearly state whether the SALT amendment will remain.

“The SALT amendment is extremely important to me,” Collins said. “The health care agreement is extremely important for me. It would be very difficult for me to support the bill if I do not prevail on those two issues.”

The GOP tax bills have been deliberated with almost no bipartisanship collaboration, which has unanimously angered Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) who oppose giving corporations and the most affluent tax breaks with the hope of positively affecting the middle class.

“So here’s my suggestion. In-

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.)

stead of giving corporations a big tax cut, let’s give the middle class a real tax cut. Instead of giving America’s most fortunate more tax breaks, let’s ask them to make a contribution a little bit more to help invest in infrastructure, job training and making college more affordable,” Harris offered at a Senate Budget Committee hearing on Tuesday. “Instead of playing politics with people’s lives, let’s listen to the American people who have spoken loud and clear.”

It’s not only Democratic lawmakers who oppose the bill. A majority of Americans also expressed unfavorable opinions of the bill, which is slowly becoming one of the least popular tax proposals since the Reagan era.

According to a Quinnipiac University survey, only 25 percent of voters approved of the plan.

Other surveys conducted by ABC News/WaPo, CNN, Morning Consult and YouGov found approval at 36 percent or lower; voters found that the bill disproportionately favors the rich while providing little to no help for the middle class.

A majority of small businesses also oppose the bill, saying that the plan will benefit wealthy corporations the most.

A poll from the Public Policy Polling taken from Nov. 17-18 found that only 34 percent of small businesses support the GOP tax bills while 51 percent opposed it; nearly 800 small business owners across the nation were surveyed.

As of press time, the Senate vote has not been completed.

(Klarize/Medenilla/AJPress)

Havan�, Cub� May 22 to 29, 2018

May 22, 2018 (Tuesday - Day 1) Los Angeles to Havana, Cuba Depart from LAX to Havana, Cuba. Upon arrival in Havana, meet our guide and transfer to the hotel for dinner.

May 23, 2018 (Wednesday - Day 2) Havana, Cuba Our day will begin with mass at the Cathedral of Havana located in the center of Old Havana. After mass, proceed for a city tour of Old Havana with an experienced local tour guide. The tour will take place on foot and you will visit all the squares of Old Havana. Take in the astonishing beauty of the historical buildings, sculptures, and monuments. After lunch you will have free time to bargain at the San Jose Craft Market. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • dECEmbER 1-7, 2017

A

Statement of former Speaker Jose de Venecia during the Fujian Normal University’s 110th anniversary FUZHOU — Former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia said last Nov. 18 that Philippine national hero Jose Rizal, considered “Pride of the Malayan Race,” which includes the peoples of Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, had “Fujian, Chinese roots, and if alive today would be in the forefront of seeking inter-Asian reconciliation in the South China Sea.” Here in Fuzhou, Fujian’s capital city, for the 110th Anniversary of the Fujian Normal University, with hundreds of members of Filipino-Chinese and Asian alumni in attendance, 81-year-old de Venecia, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s Special Envoy for APEC and Intercultural Dialogue, told newsmen: “With the recent decision in ASEAN to begin the drafting of the China Sea Code of Conduct, key principles would include free navigation, open skies, common trade, tourism, hopefully joint exploration and joint development of petroleum resources, to be equitably shared, and taking into account contributions to oil drilling and development costs.”

De Venecia, 5-time Speaker of the Philippine House of Representatives, and former President of the Petroleum Association of the Philippines, said under Presidents Xi Jinping and Rodrigo Duterte Philippine-Chinese relations “had improved considerably and major Chinese investments are beginning to flow in the Philippines and major Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs have established branches in various cities of China.”

In 2005, joining then President

Jose de Venecia Jr., Special Envoy for Intercultural Dialogue

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s state visit to China, then Speaker de Venecia proposed in Beijing a “tripartite oil seismic agreement in the South China Sea among the Philippines, China, and Vietnam which was approved by the three governments,” led to the launching of a commonly financed 3-nation seismic ship survey which he said found a “number of drillable structures in the South China Sea.” In his speech yesterday at the Fujian Normal University anniversary rites, de Venecia said the great Chinese and Asian leader Deng Hsiao Peng said at the time that “we must consider suspending the issue of sovereignty” and

proceed to drill for the region’s most urgent energy requirements and share the fruits of oil production. He said President Duterte and Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano have been successful so far in improving the situation in the South China Sea. Earlier in the 1970s in a speech before the Philippine Jaycees, de Venecia proposed multi-national drilling in the China Sea to include China and the U.S. He now adds that the U.S. has the most advanced oil drill ships in the world and today China has the largest oil drilling vessel in the sea.

In his speech followed by the Indonesian Ambassador to China, de Venecia said President Xi Jinping’s noble 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, following the pre-Marco Polo journeys across Central Asia, Eurasia, and to the Mediterranean, has now led to the Maritime Silk Road which goes all the way to Africa.

De Venecia proposed a “Third Route” across the China Sea to the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand to Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the U.S., in a New Age of Circumnavigation and Globalization.

He added the time has also come for the Latin Americans to journey across the South Pacific to trade with and invest also in Asia.

He said the recent APEC and ASEAN Summits in Vietnam and Manila had further improved Philippines-China and U.S. relations. n

PH, US begin discussions on bilateral...

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“Building on the productive bilateral meeting of our leaders in Manila recently, we have also begun discussions on negotiating and concluding a possible bilateral free trade agreement with the United States,” Rodolfo said in his remarks after the meeting held in Washington, D.C. Earlier in November, Filipino officials suggested a bilateral free trade agreement be concluded with the U.S. during Duterte’s meeting with Trump.

The U.S. is the third biggest

trading partner of the Philippines in 2016 after China and Japan. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), U.S. accounts for the 11.6 percent or $16.427 billion total trade of the country last year.

Data from PSA also showed U.S. exports to the Philippines increased 9 percent to $8.3 billion in 2016.

Overall, Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez described the recent TIFA meeting as “productive and frank.”

“This TIFA meeting came barely

a fortnight after the successful bilateral meeting between Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte and U.S. President Donald J. Trump in Manila, where the two leaders affirmed their commitment to further deepen the extensive United States-Philippines economic relationship,” Romualdez said.

“This early follow-up is a clear demonstration of the two countries’ shared resolve to enhance our long-standing partnership for mutual prosperity,” he added.

The next TIFA meeting in 2018 is expected to be held in Manila. n

Italia� Pilgrimag� Ho�� Wee�

Ho�� �hursda� - Go�� Frida� - Eas�e� Vigi� March 23 to April 3, 2018 Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Chin Van Dang Day 1 - March 23, 2018 (Fri) Los Angeles, California to Venice, Italy Trans-Atlantic flight from LAX to LHR connect to our flight to Venice. (Meals served in-flight)

Day 2 - March 24, 2018 (Sat) Venice, Italy

After we clear Immigration & Customs, we will meet our Tour Director and driver for our transfer to our hotel, Dinner at the hotel. (Dinner) If time permits, discover the most romantic views of Venice on foot and from the comfortable seats of a gondola, spend some time gliding through the cities peaceful canals.

Day 3 - March 25, 2018 (Sun) Venice, Italy

The greatness of Venice has always been reflected in the richness of St. Mark’s Basilica, the perfect synthesis of Venetian art and a unique blend of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic elements. Five Orientallooking domes crown the shadowy, mysterious interior gleaming with May 24, 2018 (Thursday – Day 3) Havana, Cuba golden mosaics, colored marbles, precious stones and pearls, and This morning, we will visit the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. This religious complex is the guarded by the four gilded bronze horses that stand proudly atop the central entrance. The glittering mosaics of the interior tell the story of St. Mark and episodes from the Bible. It’s most famous treasure stands most extensive of those surviving in Old Havana. Here you will attend mass. After mass, you will meet with the behind the altar in the sanctuary - the Pala D’Oro, a golden altar screen encrusted with jewels. nuns and assist with projects of the day. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the evening you will assist Holy Mass at St. Mark’s Basilica a Cuban cultural demonstration. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) We’ll visit theDoge’s Palace, the magnificent Venetian-Gothic building from where the leaders of the former Venetian Republic ruled until the late 18th century. Head inside and explore the grandiose public chambers that the doges lavished with fine art and ornamentation.

May 25, 2018 (Friday – Day 4) Havana, Cuba You will have mass at the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. After mass, you will Masterpieces by Renaissance champions. (BB, D)

continue to assist the nuns. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. This evening in Havana, we will plan an exciting tour of the historical complex of Castillo del and La Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana. If the timing and weather conditions permitted, you will witness the special nightly cannon at the fortress. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) May 26, 2018 (Saturday – Day 5) Havana, Cuba Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. After, you will visit the Abel Santamaria School for the blind, located on the grounds of an old military base. The school aims to integrate the children into mainstream schools as soon as the child is ready through an outreach program which continues to support children at their secondary schools. You will spend time meeting the students and teachers. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Cintio Vitier Community Project Center, where arts Programs of all types including painting, ceramic and dance hosted. You will learn about this community project and hear from the director of the program, Pedro Pulido. End your day with a panoramic drive through Modern Havana riding in old classic cars from the 1950’s. Be sure to have your camera ready for this unique experience. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4 - March 26, 2018 (Mon) Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July, 1916 until his death on 23 September, 1968. Sit back, relax and enjoy the drive and take in the picturesque scenery along the way. We will reach our hotel in San Giovanni Rotondo in the afternoon. Will have panoramic sightseeing on the way to our hotel, (BB, D).

Day 5 - March 27, 2018 (Tues) San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

We begin the day by celebrating Holy Eucharist, followed by a short film about St. Padre Pio. Done by our local guides who are very knowledgeable about the life of St. Padre Pio. We’ll start our visit with the Old Church.

Here you can see his cell, his confessional box, the crucifix from which he received the stigmata, and nearly everything he owned or touched, carefully preserved and labeled. Then will visit the New Basilica, Santa Maria delle Grazie (Our Lady of Grace) dedicated to Padre Pio. (BB, D)

Day 6 March 28,2018 (Wed) San Giovanni Rotondo

Holy Eucharist in the Morning in the New Basilica. Followed by Station of the Cross. Rest of day spend praying and meditating (BB, D)

Day 7 – March 29, 2018 (Thur) San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena, Italy

After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena. We will begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of Renaissance art and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena. You’ll learn about the city’s history while admiring its cathedrals, museums, and libraries. Then admire May 27, 2018 (Sunday – Day 6) Havana – Las Terrazas – Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. Then you famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares.(BB, D) Continue to Assisi overnight/Dinner

will be transferred to Las Terrazas for a tour of the community. Visit the neighborhoods, their schools, artists and community projects in the area. You will then continue to Vinales. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check in and rest. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8 - March 30 2018 (Fri) Assisi to Florence (Good Friday)

May 28, 2018 (Monday – Day 7) Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Vinales. Then you will have a sightseeing tour. There is an opportunity to visit a Tobacco Farm and learn how to expertly roll a cigar. You will also have the chance to visit an interesting site called the Prehistoric Wall and to take a Boat Ride through underground caves known as The Indian Caves. Then visit Finca Agroecolgica El Paraiso where you will have lunch. After you will visit the gardens with the breath-taking views. Return to the hotel where you will have dinner. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

2 hrs. early walking tours of Florence, before we continue to Rome We will have a guided walking tour of this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist, Continue to Rome.

Upon our arrival in Rome,Lunch break near the Vatican , followed by Guided tours of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. See the Largest church in Roman Catholicism, St Peter Basilica, see the Crypt of St Pope John Paul (BB, D) Transfer to the Hotel/Overnight

May 29, 2018 (Tuesday – Day 8) Vinales – Havana – Los Angeles Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home as your trip comes to an end. (Meal: Breakfast)

Celebrate Holy Eucharist in the Crypt where the tomb of the most beloved saints is located, after Mass visit the Basilica of St Francis, we’ll also visit the Basilica of St. Claire. After Lunch continue to Florence Best known for its leather goods, the best in the world Leather (BB, D) Free time in the afternoon. Dinner/Overnight

Day 9 - March 31, 2018 (Sat) Florence to Rome

Day 10 April 1, 2018 (Sun ) Rome

EASTER SUNDAY MASS, VATICAN SQUARE FOLLOWED BY PAPAL BLESSING Visit the Major Basilicas like St Mary Majors. John Lateran, the Holy Stairs, St. Paul Outside the Wall, St. Peter’s in Chain, Santa Croce of Jerusalem, afternoon see Imperial Rome, and short visit to the Trevi Fountain on the way to the hotel (BB, D) Dinner in the hotel

Day 11 April 2, 2018 (Mon) Rome Free time in Rome ( BB,D)

Day 12 April 3, 2018 (Mon) Rome – USA

Transfer to the airport for our flight back to USA, End of our memorable Pilgrimage

A

Dateline USa

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Palawan’s El Nido is 14th among the world’s 50 best beaches

LIFE’S a beach, so why not enjoy some of the World’s 50 Best Beaches?

The list was recently compiled

by FlightNetwork after consulting over 600 of the world’s best travel journalists, editors, bloggers and agencies.

Number 14 on the list is El Nido in Palawan, once described

by Lonely Planet as the Gateway to the Sublime. Named after the tiny swiftlets that build out of their saliva the edible nests (el nido in Spanish) found in the immense limestone cliffs surrounding the town, El Nido belongs to mainland Palawan that in January 2016, was declared the World’s Best Island by Condé Nast Traveler, a U.S.-based lifestyle and luxury magazine.

El Nido in Palawan, southwest of Luzon Island in the Philippines, joins the world’s best beaches,

here listed according to rank: • Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos • Whitehaven Beach, Australia • Anse Lazio, Seychelles • Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas • Navagio Beach, Greece • Baia Dos Porcos, Brazil • Playa Paraiso, Mexico • Hyams Beach, Australia • Hidden Beach, Mexico • Trunk Bay, US Virgin Islands • Maya Bay, Thailand • Pig Beach, Bahamas • Blue Lagoon, Fiji • El Nido, Philippines The number 15-50 spots list Muri Beach, Cook Islands, as well as Saltwhistle Bay, St. Vincent and Grenadines; Half Moon Bay, Antigua; Lucky Bay, Australia; Flamenco Beach, Puerto Rico; Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland; Île aux Cerfs, Mauritius; Fulhad-

hoo Beach, Maldives; Vaeroy, Norway; Cayo Coco, Cuba; Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands; Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles; Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda; Honokalani Beach, USA; Turquoise Bay, Australia; Elafonissi Beach, Greece; Champagne Beach, Vanuatu; Tunnels Beach, USA. Kaputas Beach, Turkey; Dhigurah Island, Maldives; Île aux Nattes, Madagascar; Cala Goloroitze, Italy; Los Roques, Venezuela; Long Beach, Canada; Grand Anse, Grenada; Boulders Beach, South Africa; Lanikai Beach, USA; Cala Mitjana, Spain; Shoal Bay, Anguilla; One Foot Island, Cook Islands; Ao Nang, Thailand; Radhanagar Beach, India; Eagle Beach, Aruba; Ageeba Beach, Egypt; Diani Beach, Kenya; and Cannon Beach, USA. (Inquirer. net)

Apple removes games that imitate bloody war on drugs TECHNOLOGY giant Apple has removed mobile games that imitate the Philippine officials shooting down and catching criminals from its application store.

In a statement, the Asian Network of People who Use Drugs (ANPUD) announced that the following games can no longer be downloaded from the Apple app store: • Duterte knows Kung Fu: Pinoy Crime Fighter • Duterte Running Man Challenge Game • Fighting Crime 2 • Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba The said games featured Presi-

dent Rodrigo Duterte and Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, police chief, shooting down criminals.

ANPUD said that it has not directly received a direct response from Apple or its team, but reported that the games could not be searched in its application store now.

In its letter sent to Apple, ANPUD said that the games are “unacceptable.” The group said they are “disappointed as well as offended having to witness such a disgusting attempt to normalize mass murders and impunity through virtual games available in the App store.”

PNP chief Bato Dela Rosa during the launch of “Tsip Bato: Ang Bumangga Giba!”

Photos courtesy of PNP

Dela Rosa, at a chance interview at the Supreme Court, lamented that ANPUD may have had a wrong idea about the government’s drug war that only involves killings.

He said: “Mali man yun na interpretation sa Tokhang. Hindi naman patayan ang Tokhang.

Makikiusap lang. Kakatukin ang bahay ng person of interest, na please itigil mo ang involvement sa drugs.”

(That is a wrong interpretation of Tokhang. Tokhang does not involve killings. Police will only knock at the house of a person of interest and request the resident to stop being involved with drugs.)

Dela Rosa, during the launch of the game October last year, was seen enjoying the mobile application.

The endless runner game titled, “Tsip Bato Ang Bumangga Giba” allows you to catch criminals (in green masks), while avoiding obstacles like pedestrians and other vehicles. You can move the character by swiping on your phone screens.

Duterte easily won over more than 16 million votes in the campaign last year with a promise to ruthless rid the country of drugs.

Duterte’s campaign courted criticism from local and international human rights groups due to the more than 12,000 deaths under the continuing drug war.

(Philstar.com)

ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ 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.

CYBER-LIBEL CHARGES. Senate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III files a cyber-libel complaint before the Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday, Nov. 28 against Edward Angelo “Cocoy” Dayao. Sotto said Dayao, reportedly the person behind the “Silent No More PH” blog, in a post criticized seven senators for not signing a Senate resolution urging the government to end drug-related killings.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

‘Social media being used to ruin democracies including Philippines’

by Audrey

MorAllo Philstar.com

THERE is an increasing worldwide pattern of social media use to aid repressive regimes and undermine democracy, a digital diplomacy expert said Wednesday, Nov. 29.

Damien Spry, a digital diplomacy researcher and consultant, said things had greatly changed since the “bliss” spawned by the Arab Spring which made people see YouTube, Facebook and Twitter as vehicles that could strengthen civil society and the public sphere.

“Maybe they weren’t wrong then, but things are different now. Social media has achieved pariah status.

Like Saturn, the internet revolution is devouring its children,” Spry wrote in a commentary on the Interpreter, an online publication of the Lowy Institute which is an independent, nonpartisan think tank based in Sydney, Australia.

Spry said that Freedom House’s latest Freedom on the Net report detailed declines in internet freedom for the past seven years.

Other reports have also catalogued the breadth, variety and impact of social media manipulation in different countries including the Philippines through the use of paid and unpaid online agents and automated accounts (bots) that would post, share, like, quote and re-post

content to influence politics.

In its 2017 Freedom on the Net report, Freedom House discussed how an army of social media commentators were paid to manipulate the information landscape in the Philippines to support President Rodrigo Duterte.

Freedom House said that there was an increase in reports of commentators being paid to manipulate social media information from June 2016 to May 2017.

“News reports citing individuals involved said the commenters, which they characterized as part of a ‘keyboard army,’ could earn at least P500 ($10) a day operating fake social media accounts supporting President Rodrigo Duterte or attacking his detractors,” Freedom House said.

The report also noted that overall internet freedom in the country slightly worsened during the covered period.

There were also technical attacks targeting media groups such as the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines from June last year to May, according to Freedom House.

One of the bases of the Freedom House Report was an Oxford University study which found that the Duterte campaign spent around P10 million to hire trolls who would spread propaganda mate-

rial online.

The study said that Duterte’s team of 400 to 500 cyber troops posted nationalistic and pro-government comments and harassed online dissenters.

According to Spry, these are just some of the main tactics used in manipulating information found on the internet.

He said that manipulators would feign grassroots support (astroturfing), smear opponents and disrupt online campaigns through distractions.

“The use of bots greatly amplifies impact: one human user can direct hundreds of bots to automatically generate thousands of posts and comments,” he wrote.

The large amount of content and interactions, Spry said, would push it to the top of the pile and would make it more likely to appear on social media feeds of others.

A common tactic in countering an anti-government hashtag campaign is by promoting alternative hashtags or by posting nonsense using the critical hashtag, he noted.

Spry said that some of the countries affected by this were Sudan through its “Cyber Jihadists,” the Philippines with its “keyboard army,” Turkey through its 6,000 trolls and Mexico with its 75,000 automated accounts known as ‘Peñabots.’ n

Social media are increasingly being used to prop up repressive regimes and undermine democracies worldwide, according to a digital diplomacy expert.

Philstar.com photo

Over 200 companies urge FCC to maintain...

PAGE A1 2016 — $3.5 billion alone were from Cyber Monday.

“The internet is increasingly where commerce happens,” the letter says.

Under current net neutrality rules enacted by the 2015 Open Internet Order under the Obama administration, internet service providers (ISPs) — Comcast, Verizon, AT&T, Cox, Charter, etc.

— are prohibited from blocking, throttling, or charging consumers to pay for “fast lane” access to certain sites.

The idea of net neutrality generally describes a free and open internet where everyone gets equal access to the same content, or in the case of the Cyber Monday letter, have equal opportunity to compete for consumers.

“This economic growth is possible because of the free and open internet,” the companies said.

“Our current net neutrality rules support innovation and gives all businesses the opportunity to compete equally for consumers,” they added.

Without the rules, the companies and supporters of net neutrality argue that ISPs would be able to put businesses into “slow lanes”, require them to pay a toll to reach customers, or even block them.

“This would put small and medium-sized businesses at a disadvantage and prevent innovative ones from even getting off the ground,” said the open letter. “An internet without net neutrality protections would be the opposite of the open market, with a few powerful cable and phone companies picking winners and losers instead of consumers.”

Yet despite the many urges

to keep net neutrality regulations, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai — who was appointed by Trump in 2017 and once served as an attorney for Verizon — has remained steadfast in his stance to revoke the regulations. His final draft proposal was released on Wednesday, November 22.

There are a number of arguments net neutrality supporters have against Pai’s proposal, but an argument most are focusing on has to do with the reclassification of broadband internet.

Whereas current net neutrality regulations classify broadband internet as a “utility”, Pai’s 210page document proposes it be reclassified as a “telecommunications service”, essentially giving ISPs more control over how their customers get access to the internet, according to his opponents.

This would also put ISPs under the watch of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rather than the FCC. The FTC would thus be in charge of making sure the companies adhere to a set of “open internet” principles.

Pai said that under his proposal, the FTC “will once again be able to police ISPs, protect consumers, and promote competition, just as it did before 2015.”

But critics of Pai’s proposal argue that unlike the FCC, the FTC will not be able to protect consumers and users before they become victims. They also point out that the extent to which the FTC has on policing broadband providers remains ambiguous.

Pai has also repeatedly argued that the current rules have been stifling ISP companies, thus preventing them from growing.

In a statement, he said that the regulations “depressed invest-

ment in building and expanding broadband networks and deterred innovation.”

He reiterated his stance in a Wall Street Journal op-ed on Tuesday in which he said, ”In the two years after the FCC’s decision, broadband network investment dropped more than 5.6 percent — the first time a decline has happened outside of a recession.”

Those for net neutrality say otherwise. Back in May, pro-net neutrality advocacy group Free Press released a report that cited ISPs saying that they had not been hurt by net neutrality.

“We found that not a single publicly traded U.S. ISP ever told its investors (or the SEC) that Title II negatively impacted its own investments specifically,” the report said.

ISPs cited in the report include AT&T whose CEO told investors that the company would actually “deploy more fiber” in 2016, and Charter whose CEO told investors, “Title II, it didn’t really hurt us; it hasn’t hurt us.”

With less than three weeks to go until voting time, advocates for net neutrality maintain that the regulations are necessary for a democratic, open, and competitive market.

Just recently, Comcast — aware of public fears — told CNET that the company currently has no plans to offer fast lanes on the internet if the rollback were to happen.

“Comcast hasn’t entered any paid prioritization agreements. Period,” said the company’s spokeswoman Sena Fitzmaurice in an email. “And we have not plans to do so.”

The FCC will note on the new rules on Thursday, December 14.

(Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)

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A

Dateline PPHhiliPPines laments North Korea’s continued weapons use

by Patricia LourDeS Philstar.com

PAILAW SA UP 2017. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes surrounding the Oblation statue, the iconic symbol of the University of the Philippines, brighten up the premises of its campus in Diliman, Quezon City.

PNA photo by Noel D. Veloso

Gov’t officials defend drug war before SC

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

Government officials on Wednesday, november 29 defended Philippine President rodrigo Duterte’s controversial anti-illegal drugs campaign before the Supreme Court (SC).

During the resumption of the oral arguments on petitions challenging the constitutionality of Duterte’s drug war, Solicitor General Jose Calida maintained that the killings of drug suspects were not sanctioned by the state. “there were no findings that the killings were state-sponsored killings and that they were committed with the State’s acquiescence,” Calida said.

He also claimed “petitioners have a skewed interpretation” of the government order to neutralize drug suspects. “‘neutralization’ was defined under CmC no. 11-2017 as referring to the arrest or a surrender of an illegal drug personality.

Likewise, it refers to the death of a drug personality during legitimate drug operations,” the solicitor general noted. “viewed in their purely legal contexts, these terms should not be construed as synonymous to extrajudicial killing but as a com-

prehensive term that includes to subdue, incapacitate, arrest and in the most extreme case when the life of the police officer is endangered, to kill,” he added.

Supporting Calida’s statement, PnP chief Director General ronald Dela rosa also denied that he has given any order to kill drug suspects. “never. neutralize means arrest, having the suspect surrender or killing suspect only at very extreme situation as a result of legitimate police operations,” Dela rosa said.

Last month, rights groups Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) and Center for International Law (CenterLaw) headed by Aileen Almora and Sister ma. Juanita Daño respectively filed separate petitions seeking to nullify Duterte’s drug war.

In their petition, FLAG argued that the Philippine national Police (PnP)’s Command memorandum Circular (CmC) 16-2016 or “Project: Double Barrel” should be declared unconstitutional because it paves way for the police to kill suspects in guise of “neutralizing” them during operations.

CmC 16-2016 states that PnP’s Project: Double Barrel aims “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.

FLAG also assailed the legality of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) memorandum Circular 2017112, which establishes a system of anonymous reporting of suspected criminals.

FLAG lodged the petition for two victims of alleged extrajudicial killings identified as ryan Dave Almora and rex Appari and a survivor, Jefferson Soriano.

CenterLaw, on the other hand, filed the petition for the families of 35 alleged drug suspects killed in drug war operations and residents of San Andres Bukid in manila who asked the SC to issue a writ of amparo in order to protect them from the alleged harassment of police.

But Calida insisted that the “unfortunate deaths” attributed by the petitioners to the antidrug campaign “cannot be classified as potentially unlawful.”

He pointed out that “the 27 out PAGE A7

Viray

mAnILA — the Philippine government called on north Korea to commit to making meaningful progress to resolving the tensions in the Korean Peninsula. manila also lamented Pyongyang’s continued weapons testing following the latter’s launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile on tuesday, nov. 28. the Philippines expressed serious concern as such development increases tensions on the Korean Peninsula. “meaningful dialogue can only happen when the DPrK ceases such provocative and highly dangerous actions,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said.

Cayetano also reiterated the readiness of ASeAn to play a constructive role to help reduce tensions and promote peace in the region.

the ASeAn foreign ministers had released statements earlier this year urging Pyongyang to halt its weapons development and return to negotiations. the Philippines’ foreign service posts in Seoul, tokyo and osaka are closely monitoring the situation and providing up-to-date information to Filipino communities in South Korea and Japan.

Pyongyang launched another intercontinental ballistic missile from Sain ni, north Korea and traveled about 1,000 kilometers before landing within 370 nautical kilometers of Japan’s coast. the United States also strongly condemned north Korea’s launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile which threatened its neighbors, the region and global stability. “together the international community must continue to send a unified message to north Korea that the D.P.r.K. must abandon its WmD programs. All nations must continue strong

economic and diplomatic measures,” U.S. State Secretary rex tillerson said in a statement.

Washington also called on the international community to take additional measures to enhance maritime security aside from implementing all United nations sanctions against Pyongyang. the U.S. and Canada are set to convene a meeting with the Un Command Sending States, which includes Japan, South Korea and other key affected countries to discuss how to address north Korea’s threat to international peace.

“Diplomatic options remain viable and open, for now. the United States remains committed to finding a peaceful path to denuclearization and to ending belligerent actions by north Korea,” tillerson said. north Korea, meanwhile, confirmed that it has successfully tested new intercontinental ballistic missile capable of “striking all of U.S. continent.” n

Gascon: Destabilization not CHR’s cup of tea by ian

nicoLaS cigaraL Philstar.com

mAnILA — the Commission on Human rights is not in the business of destabilizing the government, rights chief Chito Gascon said Wednesday, nov. 29, amid attacks on the constitutional body for criticizing the mounting killings in the Duterte administration’s deadly drug war.

“Hindi po tayo nasa larangan ng pamumulitika. ‘Di po tayo nasa larangan ng destabilization. tayo po ay nasa larangan ng rule of law. tayo po ay nasa larangan ng justice,” Gascon said in a speech at a forum organized by the Constitutional Fiscal Autonomy Group.

(We’re not into politics. We’re not into destabilization. We’re into rule of law. We’re into justice.)

“Ang panawagan natin sa lahat ay gawin lamang ang sangayon sa batas gawin lamang ang sangayon sa ating konstitusyon,” he added.

(Our plea to all is just do what’s allowed by the law and our constitution.) to note, security officials had repeatedly said they had not monitored any destabilization plots against the current government.

President rodrigo Duterte is facing strong criticisms from human rights watchdogs for his war on drugs that has killed thousands of suspected drug traffickers in police operations.

But Duterte has rejected allegations that cops are summarily executing suspected users and dealers while most Filipinos back the brutal crackdown.

Duterte earlier described Gascon as a “pedophile” because of the CHr chief’s focus on the killing of teenagers in the government’s bloody war on drugs that sparked rare street protests. the firebrand leader had also accused Gascon of being a spokesman for the opposition and criticized his scrutiny of police anti-drug drive.

“Ang mga naitakdang karapatang pantao ay ‘syang gagamitin natin para siguraduhin na matigil na ang extrajudicial killings, ang torture and forced disappearances at arbitrary detentions sapagkat lahat ng ito ay pinagbabawal ng ating saligang batas,” Gascon said.

(We will use human rights guaranteed by the constitution to stop extrajudicial killings, torture and forced disappearances as well as

arbitrary detentions because these are prohibited under the law.)

“We extend our hand of solidarity to our CFAG colleagues as well as to the other servants in government in the executive and the legislative department.

Please look at us as institutions that are supposed to guarantee that our democracy will strive,” he added.

Last September, the House of representatives, which is dominated by Duterte’s allies, favored the move to slash the budget of the CHr to a thousand pesos from the Department of Budget’s proposed P678 million. the rights commission’s budget was later restored after lawmakers were criticized for their attempt to cut the body’s funding. the CHr, as a constitutional body, enjoys fiscal autonomy and cannot be defunded or be given a budget of only a peso, a way for some lawmakers to punish some government agencies.

In August, Duterte said security forces should shoot CHr personnel if they are found to be obstructing justice. this was after his threat to abolish the body, a remark later dismissed as a “joke.” n

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DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 • OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL

OPINION

Toothless law

FEATURES

BEFORE President Rodrigo Duterte classifies communist rebels as terrorists and wages war against them, he should make sure his security forces are prepared to apply the law against terrorism — Republic Act 9372 or the Human Security Act. RA 9372 was enacted way back in 2007, but lawmakers inserted into the measure several provisions ostensibly meant as safeguards against human rights abuses, which left little room even for honest mistakes on the part of counterterrorism forces and virtually defanged the law.

The measure makes intelligence gathering transparent, allowing the person under police surveillance that must be court-approved to challenge the court order, and requiring the identification of the police officers involved, including their full names and addresses. The New People’s Army and Abu Sayyaf would be delighted to obtain such information. Failure to submit to the Court of Appeals a detailed report on the types and number of wiretapped recordings made can earn law enforcers from 10 to 12 years behind bars.

The law also requires the identification of police informants. And while the provision against the use of torture is in keeping with constitutional

guarantees on human rights, counterterrorism forces may not want to be imprisoned for 12 to 20 years for using “threat, intimidation” or “mental, moral or psychological pressure” on a terror suspect.

If RA 9372 had been applied in liberating Marawi from the clutches of Islamic State-inspired Maute terrorists, many members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines could end up behind bars for up to 20 years. The government did not even follow the procedure under RA 9372 for classifying the Mautes as terrorists.

The government may have to go through that process if it intends to classify the Communist Party of the Philippines, the National Democratic Front, their armed wing the NPA and their front organizations as terrorist groups. President Duterte may want to take a different route in dealing with these groups. Or he may ask his congressional allies to review the law that government forces avoid enforcing. (Philstar.com)

Editorial

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS PRESIDENT Donald Trump has been touting that he will be giving Americans a great Christmas gift when he signs the Republican tax bill into law before the holidays.

What is he talking about? Who among the American people will pop the champagne for Trump’s tax plan? Unfortunately, it will not be you and me and most hardworking Americans. It will be Trump and people like him.

Don’t take my word for it. Take it from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report that analyzed and projected the impact of the tax bill on the American people and the financial health of the nation. This is the reason why the Trump Administration continues to scramble to get enough votes even among Republicans.

The way it works is pretty much how we do our family budget. We need to work so we have the income to spend. As much as possible, we live within our means to pay our bills. If we run short of money to spend, we use our credit

Peace Maker

Trump’s tax bill: Good for the richest, bad for the middle class and the US card or get a loan from the bank.

We try to be frugal and only pay for essential basic needs, unless we need to invest on needs that will bring great return on investments in terms of better income, way of life and standard of living for our family members in the future. To save money, we either increase income/revenues and/ or cut on expenses.

In looking at the tax bill issue, the GOP plan boasts of the biggest tax cuts in the history of America.

As taxes are the sources of the nation’s income/revenue, then that means we have less money to spend for our needs. Spending more without the revenue to pay for it because of tax cuts means we add to our debt and budget deficit. Who benefits most from the tax break and who hurts most because of cuts in budget reflect what is important in this administration.

Based on the CBO study, the ultra-rich — the top 1 percent — will benefit most from this tax reform bill.

Who will suffer? According to the report of The Guardian based on the CBO and Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), “starting in 2021, a year after the next election, Americans earning $10,000

to $30,000 a year or less would pay higher taxes if the bill passes thanks to plans to repeal a core element of Obama’s Affordable Care Act. The JCT also calculates that most Americans earning $75,000 or less would be paying higher taxes by 2027.”

The middle class, especially those living in high-tax states, who deduct their local property, income and sales taxes from their tax due could lose out from the complete or partial repeal of the deductions. Moreover, about 13 million Americans could lose health insurance coverage over 10 years under the Senate bill.

Add to these will be the social services that benefit the poor, the vulnerable and the middle class which are always the ones slashed to spend money.

The Guardian further reported that based on the studies, “paying for the tax cuts is likely to mean cuts to social security and Medicare, the federal program that provides health insurance to those 65 and older.”

“The House bill is also proposing to eliminate tax deductions for medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of a taxpayer’s total income. More than half of the 8.6 million people who claim

the deduction are older than 65, 49 percent had income less than $50,000, and 69 percent earned less than $75,000, according to AARP, the lobby group for older Americans, which has 38 million members.”

And how will this affect the economy of the United States?

Contrary to Trump’s claim that this tax bill will reduce the debt and deficit of the country, the CBO estimated that this Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would cost $1.4 trillion. With the Senate version, the trillion-dollar deficit would return by 2020, debt would exceed the size of the U.S. economy in just over a decade.”

Who will celebrate if this tax bill is passed? One of the sources of our nation’s income is the estate tax. This tax bill eliminates that from the revenue column to help “people who leave a fortune of $5.49m or above to their heirs. Parents can leave $11m to their children without paying the tax. The House bill doubles that exemption until 2024 and then eliminates it entirely at a cost of $151bn to the taxpayer over the next decade.”

According to The Guardian, “The cut would save the Trump family $1.15bn when he dies, ac-

cording to the Center for American Progress Action Fund.”

The Guardian further reported that with thus GOP tax bill: “Gone also would be the alternative minimum tax (AMT), introduced in 1969 to prevent the rich from escaping paying their fair share of tax via tax loopholes.

AMT mainly affects those earning over $500,000, according to Tax Policy Center. In 2005 the rule was responsible for $31m of the $38m Trump paid in federal taxes, according to leaked documents.

Lowering taxes on passthrough businesses will also help the rich. Pass through businesses are businesses taxed at the rate of the business owner. The current proposals would cut the top rate these companies pay to 25 percent, far below the 39.6 percent highest rate of personal income tax.

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities some 80 percent of the benefit of these cuts would go to those earning $1-M or more – giving them an average increase of $50,000 in 2018. A similar plan in Kansas led to a budget crisis after the state’s tax revenues plummeted and promises of increased economic

activity failed to materialize.

Trump controls some 500 pass-through entities and he would save about $16m a year from the cuts, according to the New York Times.

Trump’s plan would cut the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent, the lowest point since 1939. The idea is that lower taxes will allow business leaders to increase capital investment and create more jobs.

But the fact is that most US corporations pay far less than 35 percent tax already, many of the most profitable pay nothing and lower taxes have not been shown to create jobs. There is also little evidence that the current system is harming business given that both stock markets and corporate profits are at record highs while employment is at lows unseen since the turn of the millennium.”

TELL ME: How would this bill help YOU? *** 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. 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

Philstar.com photo

Jose de Venecia Jr., Special Envoy for Intercultural Dialogue

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 InterAgency 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 Manila 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 Presi-

dent Duterte’s genuine anti-drugs 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 Co-Chairman.

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 Presidentelect 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 LatinAmerican traffickers to use West Africa to 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 inter-continental 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. ■

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

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OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEmbER 1-7, 2017

A

PH Senate passes bill to exempt De Lima receives rosary from Pope Francis millions of Filipino from income tax by dAnA

SioSon AJPress

by Audrey

MorAllo Philstar.com

MANILA — The Senate on Tuesday, Nov. 28, approved on third and final reading its version of the government’s tax reform package aimed at providing more tax relief to millions of Filipinos and funding the administration’s ambitious infrastructure projects.

Senate Bill 1592 sponsored

by Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, is expected to exempt around 6.8 million workers from paying income taxes.

Seventeen senators voted to approve the proposed law while only one cast a negative vote.

“In the history of our country’s taxation, this is the biggest income tax relief that we can give to our workers,” Angara said.

“We’re putting more money in the pockets of Filipinos. We want a fair income tax system which has become inequitable over the years,” he added.

Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Bill, the

first p250,000 annual taxable income will be exempted from tax, plus the p82,000 tax exemption for 13th month pay and other bonuses. This translates into an approximate tax-free monthly income of p21,000.

Based on data from the Bureau of Internal Revenue, almost all or 99 percent of the estimated 7.5 million individual income taxpayers will enjoy lower income tax rates.

The proposed law will also triple to around 6.8 million the number of tax-exempt minimum wage earners, from the current 2 million.

Under the proposed tax scheme, a government educator with the rank of Teacher I with a monthly income of p20,179 will already be exempted from paying taxes and have a monthly savings of p2,393.

The proposed measure is aiming to impose additional taxes on fuel, some sugar-sweetened beverages (excluding milk and three-in-one coffee), automobiles and coal.

Small business with annual sales

of p3 million or below are still exempted from paying the valueadded tax while the VAT threshold was increased to p3 million.

The Senate’s version would also impose a 10-percent tax on cosmetic products and other body-enhancement procedures for aesthetic purposes.

The new tax scheme is expected to generate up to p130 billion based on department of Finance estimates which will be used to fuel the government’s massive infrastructure program.

According to pimentel, the proposed tax scheme is necessary to raise funds needed for the government’s long-term investments in infrastructure, education and health care.

Based on the Senate-proposed tax reform package, 60 percent of the revenues to be generated will go to infrastructure programs, 27 percent will be channeled to social protection initiatives such as the unconditional cash transfer scheme to the poorest 10 million Filipino families and 13 percent will be used to fund the military’s modernization. n

Aquino denies LP hand in destabilization plot by dAnA

SioSon AJPress

FoRMER philippine president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino on Monday, November 27, dismissed allegations that the Liberal party (Lp) is working on a plot to destabilize the current administration.

Aquino, who is also the party’s chairman emeritus, clarified that the Lp is not behind any plans to oust president Rodrigo duterte after the latter mentioned that the “yellows” are among those who wanted to unseat him.

“Wala kami pina-plano na ganyan (We’re not planning anything like that),” Aquino told reporters after the mass held at the Manila Memorial park in parañaque City for the 85th birth anniversary of his father—Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Aquino remarked that if duterte is doing a good job, any destabilization plot against him will not succeed. “pero kung hindi tama ang mga nangyayari, hindi natutupad ang mga pinangako, hindi maintindihan ang sinasabi—yan ang nagki-create ng dissatsifaction (But if what has been happening were improper, promises were not kept, and words were unclear—these create dissatisfaction),” the former president added.

Instead of pointing at the Lp, Aquino suggested duterte to also “look at people around

him.”

Lately, duterte has been issuing warnings that he might declare a revolutionary government if things have gone “out of control” and if the government is at risk of being overthrown violently amid the alleged destabilization efforts by his political enemies.

Aquino, however, noted that a revolutionary government could only be established after a complete system failure that makes the government no longer able to carry out its functions.

The former president also said he found no reason for duterte to declare a revolutionary government.

‘No psychological issues’ during his interview with reporters, the former president also insisted that Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno is mentally stable when he assessed her qualifications for the post.

“I didn’t see anything that would have made me think twice [in appointing her] during my interactions with her,” Aquino said.

He then asked, “We see her speaking in forums. Have we seen anything that should have made us nervous about how she comported herself?”

Sereno reportedly failed her psychological exam taken during her application for chief justice in 2012 after supposedly getting a score of 4—the highest of which is 1 and the lowest

Gov’t officials defend drug...

PAGE A5

of the 35 deaths in daño, and the two deaths in Almora, were the result of legitimate police operations.”

“The remaining eight incidents in daño involve four homicides currently under investigation and four others that have not been reported,” Calida added.

Claiming that the petitions are “disingenuous moves to destabilize the duterte administration and sow anarchy,” Calida asked the high court to dismiss them.

“The petitions intend to drive a wedge between the president on the one hand, and the pNp and dILG on the other, inciting disobedience to the Chief Executive and depriving him of his powers and prerogatives; and emasculate the government’s police powers by rendering inutile the pNp’s sworn mandate to enforce the law and maintain peace and order,” he said.

The solicitor general went on to say, “The court should not let these happen because they will have long-term, catastrophic ef-

fects on the nation’s stability and security.”

But for SC Associate Justice Francis Jardeleza, there is enough evidence to suspend the drug war.

Referring to the section 3 of CMC 2016-016, which is the double barrel project’s “highlight,” Jardeleza noted that the house-to-house visitations of the police “is not a purpose allowed under the bill of rights.”

“To my mind, and not examining the mass of facts presented by both petitioners, there is a prima facie case to issue a TRo (temporary restraining order) against section 3, only section 3, of the provisions on house-tohouse visitation of [the] CMC ,” Jardeleza said.

“Effectively, the person is not secure in his house, and for any reason, and above reason, which is to confront, even if I accept your formulation which is to persuade the person to stop his evil ways, is not a purpose allowed under the bill of rights,” he added. n

PARU-PARO’ FESTIVAL. Elementary students, in colorful butterfly costumes, join a street dancing competion during the 6th “Paru-Paro” festival 2017, held at the City Hall of Dasmarinas City in Cavite on Sunday, November 26.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

is 5.

According to Lawyer Lorenzo Gadon, the complainant in Sereno’s impeachment case, the two psychologists who performed psychological examinations on her were supposedly terminated after she was appointed as the chief magistrate. n

A “dEEpLy, deeply touched” Senator Leila de Lima on Sunday, November 26, said she received a rosary from pope Francis.

In a statement, the detained senator said the philippine National police (pNp) chaplain personally handed her the gift enclosed with a letter from the pope last Wednesday, November 22.

“This gift will constantly remind me that, despite the political persecution I am experiencing right now at the hands of a vengeful president, I should keep the faith and fight tirelessly for the welfare of the Filipino people,” she said.

She also described the rosary as “beautiful.” de Lima, a top critic of president Rodrigo duterte, has been detained at the pNp Custodial Center in Camp Crame since February 2017 for her alleged involvement in the drug trade at the New Bilibid prison when she was Justice Secretary from 2010 to 2015.

The senator said she sent the pope a letter before her 58th birthday August to ask him to pray for her and the Filipino people.

Calling herself duterte’s “political prisoner,” the senator also asked the pope’s blessing to give the the “strength to continue the fight against the injustice that is happening not only to me, but to thousands of Filipinos who are victims of extrajudicial killing.”

“According to the Chaplain, pope Francis was able to read my

Sen. Leila De Lima

letter and assured that he is praying for me,” de Lima said.

Commenting on pope Francis’ giving of a rosary to de Lima, duterte on Tuesday, November 28 joked about showing the pontiff the senator’s alleged sex video.

Without mentioning de Lima, duterte said said in jest that he would show the pope a “video” that would prod him to step down from the papacy should he watch it.

“Tapos ‘yung isa, ‘yung hambog binigyan pa ng rosary ni pope (Then one of them, the arrogant one, was even given a rosary by the Pope),” the president said during an anti-corruption summit in pasay City.

“Si pope naman o… Hanapan mo nga ako ng video ng ano, pak-

Senate photo

ita ko kay pope. Baka magtingin pa si pope, baka umalis pa sa pagka-pope yan (Find me that video. Once the Pope sees it, he may leave the papacy),” he added. duterte did not elaborate on the video he was referring to, but de Lima was rumored to have had a sex video with her former driver Ronnie dayan—which the senator denied.

The president later clarified that he was just joking. He, however, warned that he could also use his right to freedom of expression to criticize the pope back.

“That’s a joke. Aabot ng ano ‘yan (It might reach them). I am joking, pope. If you criticize me, I can criticize you ten times over,” duterte said. n

A

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Filipino filmmakers Allan Ibanez, Dexter Hemedez deliver laughs and tears in ‘1st Sem’ Coming-of-age story explores complex family dynamics between a single mother and her eldest son BY

T

KLARIZE MEDENILLA / AJPRESS

HE coming-of-age story has become a staple in independent cinema, beautifully and artistically told from filmmakers spanning the globe. Typically geared towards young adults, these stories explore the growth of a protagonist, pulling from often-comedic experiences that have strengthened our hero.

The first feature film by Philippine writer-directors Allan Ibanez and Dexter Hemedez “1st Sem” tells the story of the eldest son of a widow who sets off to study at a prestigious university in Manila only to return home the next day.

The son, 16-year-old Maru (played by newcomer Darwin Yu), tells his mother, Precy (Lotlot De Leon), that he felt lonely and missed his family.

Angry that her son disobeyed her wishes to receive a college education, Precy orders Maru to help around the house. Their relationship begins to deteriorate as they face challenges that further divide the family. The story explores the dynamic between the hard-working but crass mother and a well-meaning, trepidatious son.

“1st Sem” is a modern com-

ing-of-age story, but rather than building experiences out in the world, he learns them in his own household. The film also discusses the very relatable experiences of being young and curious, and negotiating that precociousness with a demanding parent who only wants what’s best for her children.

But what comes out of the woodwork is the relentless love between a mother and son who overcome pride and allow love and resilience to win. The story is charmingly funny, but deals with very serious, but common familial disputes.

“I think whether you’re a Filipino or a person of a different nationality, the themes that the movie explored are universal and there’s a way you can relate to the characters and the experiences,” co-director and co-writer Ibanez told the Asian Journalafter the film’s premiere at the American Film Institute in Los Feliz.

Hemedez and Ibanez met in 2014 when they were both writers for soap operas on ABS-CBN. Both made short films in college and knew they would eventually want to create feature films.

As writers for the teleserye

In the movie, Lotlot De Leon plays a struggling single parent to three siblings in the throes of adulthood played by newcomers Darwin Yu, Miguel Bagtas and child actor Sebastian Vargas.

Written and directed by Allan Ibanez and Dexter Hernandez, “1st Sem” is a coming-of-age comedy-drama.

“Nasaan Ka Nang Kailangan Kita,” they had gotten close, often co-writing episodes together and pondered the idea of creating a feature length film together.

Somewhere in that collective brainstorming came the idea of “1st Sem.” “Our strongest asset going into filmmaking was that we had experience writing and we know how to tell the stories that are character-centered,” Ibanez said.

“That was our strength. But when it comes to creating, directing and producing a feature-length film, that’s a totally different game.”

As an independent film with a very tight budget, the filmmakers faced a slew of commonly-experienced problems on set. But one of the biggest obstacles came in the form of an unnamed producer who stopped showing up to the set and had stolen money from an already meager production budget.

This matter lost them two very crucial filming days and

delayed the pay of many of the film’s production crew and equipment. Stressed out and nervous for the film’s future, Hemedez and Ibanez did everything they can to, at the very least, get the film completed.

“I couldn’t get up for two months because of it. I got really depressed,” Ibanez said. “We really needed those two shooting days.

We went to the bank to inquire if they would give us a loan. That’s how desperate we were in making this film.”

“No matter how big the problems we really tried to finish it in the best possible way because without the finished product it will be a lot worse.

Thank God there are people in the Philippines who championed our film and posted about it on social media. It’s the start, it’s the little buzz that started everything for us.”

The buzz then got people talking about the film, which led to its release. Then a miracle happened. After one of their first screenings, an investor

Photos courtesy of Allan Ibanez and Dexter Hemedez

approached them after the screening to tell them he loved the film. He proceeded to pay off all their debts, which have allowed them to bring the film to the international stage and has been noticed by many film festivals.

Despite that period of chaos, the filmmakers said they feel lucky to have experienced the harsh reality of filmmaking and are working on another project together. Throughout the struggles, they remain smiling and proud of the finished product. In a way, the creation of this film was the filmmakers’ very own coming-of-age journey.

“This film, in a way, was like our first semester in filmmaking,” Hemedez remarked. “I feel like we grew a lot throughout this. We learned a lot and we were able to push through despite all the hardship.”

Since opening last year, the “1st Sem” has enjoyed great success, screening around the world and garnering several international cinema accolades

including the Grand Jury Prize at the San Diego International Kids Film Festival, Special Jury Award at Festival Angaelica and Best Debut Feature at the All Lights India International Film Festival among several others.

Receiving awards for a first feature film is not uncommon, but on the international stage, it’s a totally different game, Hemedez said. But in a world that’s becoming more accepting of films from a wider variety of nations, the filmmakers knew the story — “a small film with a big heart,” fans have told them — would be universally relatable.

“The awards surprise us, but at the same time we knew from the beginning it was a story that is necessary to be told,” Ibanez said. “So when people approach us saying they loved the film, we are very thankful, and we’re very proud that we’re bringing a Filipino movie to these festivals.

In a way, Filipino cinema is being appreciated abroad and that’s something we’re very proud and thankful for.”

Dexter Hemedez, Lotlot de Leon, Allan Ibanez and Darwin Yu during the closing ceremonies of the All Lights India International Film Festival where “1st Sem” won in the Best Feature Film of Debut Directors Category.

PH takes pride in Rachel Peters’ Top 10 finish

by ARLO

CUSTODIO ManilaTimes.net

HOPES were high for the Philippines’ Rachel Peters who advanced to the Top 10 of the 2017 Miss Universe pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday, Nov. 26 Just as quickly, however, the biggest night of her life came to an end when she failed to make it to the Top 5, stunning as she was in her ash blue long gown by designer Val Taguba.

Crowned Miss Universe was Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters from South Africa, who bested

First Runner-Up Miss Colombia Laura Gonzalez, and Second Runner-Up Miss Jamaica Davina Bennett. Nel-Peters succeeded 2016’s winner Iris Metenaere of France, who was crowned in Manila in January.

Even before the pageant ended, Binibining Pilipinas Charities Incorporated (BPCI) chairman Stella Marquez Araneta issued the organization’s congratulatory statement on Facebook, lauding Peters “for her phenomenal representation of the country in this year’s Miss Universe pageant.”

The Top 5 finalists: Miss Colombia, Miss Jamaica, Miss Thailand, Miss Venezuela and Miss South Africa.

“The Universe is livelier with you as a shining star. More than your poise and beauty, you are a cut above the rest with your grace and elegance that exemplifies a true woman of substance and an inspiring Filipina.

We are proud to be a part of your journey,” Araneta said.

Filipino fans and supporters, touted as the most avid followers of the pageant, shared the same sentiments.

New mechanics This year saw a new system in choosing the first set of finalists or the Top 16. Landing a spot were four candidates from three geographical groups, while the remaining four (regardless of geographical representation) were chosen as “wild cards.”

From Africa and Asia-Pacific, the finalists were Thailand, Sri Lanka, Ghana and South Africa; from Europe, Spain, Ireland, Croatia and Great Britain, and finally from the Americas were Colombia, USA, Brazil and Canada.

Peters was chosen as one of

Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters

the wild cards along with Venezuela, Jamaica and China.

The Top 16 then advanced to the Swimsuit Competition, and the candidates were whittled down to the Top 10 with Venezuela, USA, Canada, South Africa, Spain, Brazil, Colombia, Thailand, Jamaica, and the Philippines.

Peters was unable to take part in any question-and-answer portion, as they were only

Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Rachel Peters

given out to the Top 5, and again the Top 3.

No clear advocacy As Filipinos began moving on from Peter’s loss at the Miss Universe pageant, some

Photos courtesy of the Miss Universe Organization

observers were quick to note that as beautiful, graceful and confident the half-British-half Filipino candidate was, she seem to have paled in compariContinued on Page 3

What you should know about the #Hashtags

by Ricky Lo Philstar.com

WITH the advent of social media, talents are discovered and launched overnight via YouTube(Charice/Jake Zyrus, et al.) such as the ABS-CBN’s #Hashtags that launches bunches of guys who both sound and look good, and are gifted with fancy footwork to boot.

Here are the 11 first batch of #Hashtags, courtesy of the book #hashtags Journaledited by Kuiejor Garces and published by ABS-CBN Publishing Inc. Meet them (with some quotable quotes from the book), according to how they are arranged in the pictures: 1. Zeus Collins, 23 (March 19, 1994),#KingOfTheDanceFloor (5’11”, 183 lbs.): What are you looking for in a girl? Mabait, mapagmahal sa magulang, singkit, sweet at may takot sa Diyos. What turns you off?

Madumi ang kuko at maitim ang kili-kili. What kind of a boyfriend are you? Malambing, ma-kwento tsaka honest. I’d rather tell the truth than hurt someone with a lie.

2. Ryle Santiago, 19 (Oct. 1, 1998), #YoungestOfThemAll (5’9”, 140 lbs.): What turns you off? Selfcenteredness. Someone who has a lot of issues and is fond of making flimsy arguments just so I’ll make “suyo” to calm her down. I also don’t like someone who doesn’t know her priorities. We all know someone

december 1-7, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

3

Rufa Mae Quinto proudly bares figure before and after apregnancy at 40

by Niña

GuNo Inquirer.net

Ronnie Alonte, Zeus Collins and Jon Lucas

who would dump you for a pair of free shoes. I hate liars and flirts.

What kind of a boyfriend are you? Very seloso, but I’d really go out of my way to cherish a girl.

3. Luke Conde, 28 (Oct. 29, 1989), #MamasBoyCutie (6’0”, 180 lbs.): What do you look for in a girl? Someone with a sweet smile, family-oriented, at God-fearing.

What turns you off? Bad breath,

Mccoy de Leon, Jameson Blake, Tom Doromal and Nikko Natividad

dirty toes at bad-smelling hair, Wahehe! One line from a movie that you can’t forget. “Love is like the wind. You don’t see it but you feel it,” from A Walk to Remember.

4. Jameson Blake, 20 (June 17, 1997), #ResponsibleSon (5’9”, 138 lbs.): Tell us about your first heartbreak. I cried in front of her. I tried to win her back but she didn’t love me anymore. What are youlooking for in a girl? Someone who is fun to be with, easy to talk to.

Not a jealous and clingy type, sakto lang at simple. What turns you off?

Naninigarilyo at puro party ang alam. Hehe!!!

5. Paulo Angeles, 20 (Oct. 27, 1997), #CharmingHottie (5’9”, 145 lbs.): Tell us about your first heartbreak. Secret. Hahaha!

Joke lang. High school crush ko ‘yon tapos naging girlfriend ko, peronagkagusto siya sa best friend niya. What turns you off? Wala eh. Basta maging totoo lang siya sa sarili niya. Lahat naman ng tao may kanya-kanyang flaws and imperfections kaya respeto na lang siguro. Hindi rin naman ako perfect.

Continued on Page 5

RUFA Mae Quinto showed off pictures of her body before and after she had her first child, Athena Alexandria.

The comedienne gave birth back in February this year and has since bounced back, confident and sexy in one-piece body suit seven months later.

It’s no mean feat given her age. “Yes I am 40 years old!

Before and after 7 months post partum body,” she said.

She shared that she gained over 80 pounds during her pregnancy—some photos show her with swollen ankles and feet—but that it was worth it.

Quinto shared that her nose, legs, and ankles were swollen during her pregnancy.

She also said that she would be sharing her experiences on a blog and that she wanted it to be a channel for other moms

to share tips on “losing weight, “Pinakamasarap na nangyari fighting post partum depression, sa buhay ko bilang babae… career, food and finances.” mag-asawa, mabuntis…

Through all the difficulties maging INA (The best thing like losing her fit figure, that’s happened in my life as a hormonal changes, and even woman was to become a wife, hair loss, “go go go lang!”

PH takes pride in...

From Page 2 son with the winners in terms of advocacy.

Nel-Peters, who had been held at gunpoint and robbed, took her advocacy for self-defense among women to the pageant, while others talked about championing the deaf, mental health and HIV Awareness among other weighty issues.

The 2017 Miss Universe Pageant was held at The Axis, Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, the same venue where host Steve Harvey fumbled in announcing Pia Wurtzbach as the winner in 2015.

Photos from Instagram/@ruamaequinto

to get pregnant, and become a mother).”

She celebrated her first wedding anniversary with FilAm husband Trevor Magallanes on Nov. 25.

december 1-7, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

4

Kris defends ‘Ate’ Ballsy, threatens ‘Aquino haters’

QUEEN of all media Kris Aquino on Tuesday, Nov. 28, took to social media to defend her eldest sister Ballsy Aquino-Cruz after being implicated in a multibillion-peso road right-of-way scam.

In a lengthy Instagram post with a photo of quote “she’s a Queen with a little bit of savage,” Kris said Ballsy is her favorite sibling.

Kris narrated how she got disowned when she was pregnant with her first child Josh, and her eldest sister was the only sibling who was there with her in the hospital when she gave birth to Josh.

“That’s just how she is- she has loved me unconditionally. No judgment, just a reassurance that I’d never be alone because she always believed I’d manage to right my life’s wrongs—that is FAITH,” Kris wrote.

Kris then said she would “take a bullet” for Ballsy amid the allegations linking her eldest sister and brother-in-law, Eldon Cruz in a road right-of-way scam.

“So this is me saying- HURT HER by spreading more unfounded lies about her & her husband and you will really push me to my very worst,” the actress-host said.

The Megastar is happy to be back on a movie set after her seven-year hiatus from showbiz.

Erstwhile ‘Bad Boy of Philippine Cinema’ is honored as ever to share the screen with his ‘Ma’am Sharon’.

Photos from Star Cinema

Robin Padilla: ‘I’m here because Sharon needed me’

by Tessa

Mauricioa-arriola ManilaTimes.net

too and flattered by her good friend, then could not help but lavish the WHILE it was clear Megastar Sha- magnanimous actor with just as In this October 2017 file photo, Kris Aquino faces the media for an interview. much importance.

Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Christopher Toledo IV ron Cuneta would rather not recall “It’s was 1991 when we did her botched reunion movie with edly signed by Eldon endorsing one “I mean it when I say for my Ate I ex-husband Gabby Concepcion, she our first movie together [the will take a bullet. Or worse, make the of the projects secured through fake could neither hide how touched she blockbuster hit, “Maging Sino Ka worst nightmare of all Aquino haters land titles.

Man]and I think 16 since our last was that an ex-boyfriend-turnedBallsy and Eldon’s son, Jiggy Cruz, come true,” she added. [t[the equally successful “Pagdatlifetime ally came to save the day.

Kris noted that her Instagram post however defended his father and ing ng Panahon”]and up to now, I Over the weekend, Star Cinema said allegation that Eldon is involved is a “simple, clear, and real” message always, always enjoy working with held the grand media conference in the anomaly is “absurd and vouching for her family.

Robin. Like I’ve said before, we are for “Unexpectedly Yours,” its latest ridiculous.”

On Monday, Nov. 27, Ballsy and the other gender’s versions of each romantic-comedy opening today, He said that the letter presented Eldon were tagged in an P8.7 bilother—we have the same sense of with the Mega sharing lead billing by the Department of Justice at a lion road right-of-way scam after humor, we treat other people the with action star Robin Padilla. press conference on Monday shows whistleblower Roberto Catapang Jr. same way, and masaya lang talaga, Candid as ever, Robin suddenly showed to the media a letter suppos- a fake signature. (Philstar.com) blurted out, “Hindi ko naman talaga so doing this movie with him was really a treat for me,” she cheerfully pelikula ito eh. Pelikula ng Sharonsaid.

Gabby ito…”

Officially marking her return to And just as Sharon tried to shush

by Gaea KaTreena cabico Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS last mainstream cinema after a seventhe delightfully rough and rugged Philstar.com May, emphasized that being gay is idol of the male masses—squealing, year hiatus from show business MISS Universe 2015 Pia Wurtznot a crime and living with HIV is not [she] did an indie for Cinemalaya, “We totally scrapped that project!” bach slammed the Philippine Drug a punishment.

“Ang Pamilyang Lumuluha” in almost in panic—Robin, as usual, Enforcement Agency and some “Sa aking mga kababayan, ‘wag gallantly made his leading lady feel August]aron clearly missed the members of the media for disclosing po tayo maging judgmental. Hindi movie set, and despite lacking sleep like the most important woman in the HIV status of one of the suspects immoral ang maging bakla, hindi from shooting the night before, the world. in a buy-bust operation in a hotel in dapat ituring na kaparusahan ang looked invigorated and gratified in “Pero nakarating sa akin kaiBonifacio Global City, Taguig.

HIV. At lalong hindi ito biro na dapat being able to act for the cameras langan mo ko,” he turned to his Wurtzbach, an HIV/AIDS awarepag-pyestahan at pagtawanan,” flustered showbiz icon, calming her again. ness advocate, said it was unnecesWurtzbach said.

“Unexpectedly Yours is definitely down almost instantaneously, and sary to bare the identities of the men She added: “To my beloved LGBT finally setting the tone for an enjoy- in my Top 3 favorite movies that I’ve and publicly shame them. community, stay strong. We’ll win able and animated Q&A for the rest done, with our director Cathy Gar“What has been done has not this.” cia-Molina also in my Top 3 favorite of the sitting.

Pia Wurtzbach only traumatized the men that were Moreover, she urged the PDEA directors now,” she enthused.

“Ginagawa ko kung ‘Bad Boy Photo from Instagram/@piawurtzbach involved; it has also worsened the and the news outlets to “take steps One of the story’s writers, Vanes3’ at ‘Marcelo del Pilar’ para sa HIV situation in the Philippines,” she to mend the situation.” awareness advocacy groups and sa Valdez [“Se[“Seven Sunday”]hile, produksyon ko, pero tinawagan ako said in her Instagram post Tuesday, PDEA, on Tuesday, Nov. 28, netizens. affirmed Sharon’s fervor for movieni Cory Vidanes [of Star Cinema] at Nov. 28. apologized for the disclosure of the Under Republic Act 8504, or the making, to the extent that she was sinabing, ‘Kailangan ka ni Sharon,’ The beauty queen added: “Besuspect’s HIV status, saying “there Philippine AIDS Prevention and gratefully surprised the Megastar kaya nung sumulpot ako, ‘nun sila cause of what PDEA and the news was no intention to shame much less Control Act, a person’s HIV status was very willing to essay a role other gumawa ng konsepto para sa amin. outlet have done, some people are single out one person.” is confidential except in specific Ito na nga yung ‘Unexpectedly Yours’, showbiz icons might be hesitant now associating drugs and immoralWurtzbach was the latest person- medical situations and if subject to a ako lang ang makakagawa nitong to do. ity with being gay. It’s ridiculous.” ality to condemn the baring of one subpoena from a court. Violation of “I’m so happy that Ma’am Sharon role na ito—wala nang iba!” Robin Wurtzbach, who was assigned of the suspects HIV status joining confidentiality is penalized by from was willing to star in a story about completed his speech to rousing as the Goodwill Ambassador of Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, six month to for years in prison as a 50-year-old menopausal woman’s applause and laughter. the regional branch of the United Commission on Human Rights, HIV well as fines.

The Megastar, clearly entertained adventures in dating to show the

Pia calls out PDEA, media for baring suspect’s HIV status

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

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audience how it is to be in love at that age,” Valdez elaborated.

And much as the Megastar, ever the transparent darling of show business, squirmed in her seat at the mention of the word “menopausal,” she happily addressed The T-Zone’s question on how she feels about the prospect of going into the generally dreaded stage of a woman’s life.

“It’s a reality we all have to face at this age,” Sharon began. “In fact two friends of mine have also gone into menopause and we always talk about it. If only we could have snow here by the time I go into mine, I’ll be OK,” she added laughing. “Kasi mainitin talaga ako, and even in the movie, we made a big show of how my character Patty is always holding one of those battery-operated fans.”

After a short pause to gather her thoughts, she continued, “I live a simple life, and I especially did when I took a break from showbiz to be with my children. I missed doing this but that’s an experience that is irreplaceable, but at my age I just feel happy that I’m here again doing a movie, doing what I love all over again, so I think I’ll be OK with whatever else comes along. Menopause included.”

As for Robin, who seemed simply happy to give the floor to the Megastar for her movie comeback, he sweetly said of working with Sharon anew, “Ganun pa rin ako. Hindi na ako naalis sa fan mentality ko kaya ang naiisip ko lang, ‘Wow, nahalikan ko na naman si Sharon Cuneta’.”

Now what woman can say she doesn’t need to hear that even once in a while?

“Unexpectedly Yours” also stars Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia.

DECEMBER 1-7, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

Health@Heart

History: cardiac surgery

ushered in by those past proven concepts and evidence-based discoveries.

PHILIP S. CHUA, The first right heart angiograMD, FACS, FPCS phy in human was done in 1929

by Werner Forssmann on himself.

(Conclusion) He was derided as crazy but was LAST week, we took our readers in a journey back to year 1628, awarded the Nobel Prize in 1956, almost 400 years ago, when blood which he shared with Andre Cournand and Dickinson Richcirculation, as we know it today, was “discovered,” understood, and ards, who introduced diagnostic cardiac catheterization in the accepted by medical science for early 1940s. Selective coronary the first time. This fundamental angiography, which is used today information inspired and led to worldwide to diagnose coronary cascading advances, one after the other, in medicine as a whole, artery disease (which causes heart attack), was introduced by and in cardiovascular medicine Mason Sones of the Cleveland and surgery in particular. One discovery enabled the invention of Clinic in the 1960s. Rene Favaloro more sophisticated diagnostic and of Argentina, also on the staff at the Cleveland Clinic, pioneered in therapeutic measures or procedures. The cutting-edge and state- the technique of coronary bypass surgery in the early 60s, which is of-the-art medical and surgical used today with refinements. procedures available to patients In 1962, autogenous saphetoday were made possible and nous vein grafts were used for

coronary bypass by D. Sabiston.

The first reported use of Internal Mammary Artery (from behind the breast bone) as coronary grafts was performed by R. Goetz in 1960 using sutureless technique. Four years later, V. Kolessov did the first sutured IMA as coronary bypass grafts. IMA grafts are superior to veins grafts.

It was not until the early 70s that the full impact of Forssmann discovery was realized when Marcus De Wood, M.D., of Spokane, Washington, used coronary angiography to search for blockages in the coronary artery. As late as that time, the accepted concept was that heart attacks were “merely the last gasp of a dying heart,” a gloomy and hopeless situation that could not be treated or altered or improved.

His concept and research were

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

The curious case of Stephen C. Davis A ghost story

MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA (Continued from last week)

HALF a lifetime later and half “...he was no more than a lonely soul whose a world away, I have forgotyoung life was cut down so suddenly and so ten much about the murdered American soldier. Buried in the tragically one dark moonless night...” mists of time, his story would have remained shelved, tucked away in comprehend fully. interview for the article I have had my memory banks and promptly Quite plainly, there are things to be careful in how the story is forgotten until I came across an in this world that cannot be presented because I was livaccount of that incident long ago defined, completely understood ing, working and studying in an on the internet. and pegged in a nice, neat box.

Written by Virgilio Lacaba, I read academic environment, which by The curious case of this murdered default should place reason and a long, detailed article, perhaps a American soldier reaching out from reprint, on “Strange Occurrences at scientific explanation on everythe grave is probably one of them. the UP” and like a flood, everything thing that happens in the world.

As a postcript decades later, Paranormal phenomenon is an came rushing back as though it Lacaba updated the account by entirely different ball of wax that happened yesterday. Weeks after verifying the information about supposedly rational beings do not the session, I remember being Stephen Davies with the American normally subscribe to, something interviewed for an article in a then Battle Monuments Commission that would raise skeptical brows. popular weekly magazine, Mr. & (http: //www.abmc.gov/search/deYet I have found that life is not Ms., by Neni Santa Romana Cruz, a tailwwnew.php). Something may Continued on Page 6 well-known Filipino writer who also entirely rational, a lot of things have been lost in the spelling and don’t make sense and we have happened to be the elder sister of translation during the sessions, for a good friend from St. Scholastica’s only begun to chip away at the there were two entries for Stephen College, the kind and gentle Chona great mysteries of life that lay before us. I am thus convinced that Davis (there was no e though in Santa Romana, who incidentally the Davis) — one was Stephen E. and sadly, I learned much later, was quite possibly, I am just one of the Davis, a US Air Force officer who multitudes the world over who herself a tragic victim of murder believe that there are things in the was killed in Hawaii and whose and domestic foul play, sometime remains were never recovered and universe that are far beyond the in the late eighties. I had left the loving our Arcadia store, we will a Stephen C. Davis. The latter was scope of reason and known science country for America by then and prepare hard everyday to serve listed as Seaman, First Class, U.S. to explain and things that are far lost touch. customers and go beyond any Continued on Page 6 beyond human intelligence to I do remember that during the expectations of our opening.”

And added that Hmart Arcadia will be a new destination where alendar of Events customers can truly enjoy ‘Good for all’ H Mart is a 34 years old supermarket chain, which started with first store in Woodside, NY in 1982, offering robust and unique cultural foods that also promote a rich and healthy lifestyle. Today H Mart operates more than 90 stores in 14 states and in one of the leading international supermarket chains in the United States. In 2014, Hmart was recognized as one of the fastest growing retailers in the National Retail Federation’s HOT 100 RETAILERS (#13 Hmart). In 2016, Supermarket News has listed Hmart as one of the Top 50 Small Chains and Independents in the United States & Canada.

H Mart Arcadia Grand Opening Ceremony on December 8

H MART, a leading international supermarket chain has made a final announcement of H Mart Arcadia Grand Opening and is set to open its doors at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 8, 2017.

A number of community leaders and representatives are set to participate and celebrate the Grand Opening. The Grand Opening will feature a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony followed by a Korean traditional Folk dance and Chinese Lion Dance.

A variety of FREE GIFTS will be given out to new and current Hmart Smart Card members (while supplies last) as well as all shoppers, purchasing over $30 (thirty dollars). In addition, facepainting events will be held for children (Weekends only).

H Mart is an upscale supermarket with more than 90 stores in U. S nationwide. It serves both traditional Asian and international food, with fresh

produce, meat, poultry, and fishery. H Mart is also known as the ‘One-Stop Shopping’ place for all shoppers in different ethnicities, backgrounds and ages.

H Mart Arcadia is over 40,000 square feet of retail space and will be placed in 1101 W Huntington Dr. Arcadia, CA 91007. By directly providing products directly from its CA warehouse and local farms, Hmart Arcadia will retain and elevate its freshness to meet customers’ needs.

“On behalf of the residents of Arcadia I welcome H Mart. We are excited and honored that H Mart has chosen our great town for a location for their grocery store. It is a win-win, great for the community and great for H Mart.

I wish them many many years of success here in Arcadia,” said Arcadia Mayor, Peter Amundson.

H Mart President Brian Kwon said, “As H Mart would like to give special thanks to Arcadia and the surrounding communities for

5

C

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

(Advertising Supplement)

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.

D EC E M B E R 27-29

Ateneo de Naga High School Class ’67 celebrates 50th anniversary in Naga City The Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU) High School Class 1967 is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2017 from December 27 to 29 with various activities lined up for its 153 alumni members. (ADNU is a leading Jesuit university in the Bicol region located in Naga City, Camarines Sur, Philippines). The activities include the publication of its 50thAnniversary Yearbook, a coffee table book which features the individual life stories of the class members after high school, tributes to their mentors, and various articles about school life in the 1960s. Also scheduled for the middle of the year is a golf tournament which — aside from fostering camaraderie — will essentially be a fund-raising activity for planned alumni projects such as a medical mission to a remote provincial town, scholarships, and donations for other worthy causes. This year’s reunion will be at the ADNU main campus in Naga City with various fun and commemorative activities lined up for the occasion. All batch members, wherever they are domiciled, including those residing in foreign countries, especially those in the USA and Canada, are enjoined to contribute their life story articles for the anniversary book as soon as possible, to participate in the various identified activities and outreach projects, and attend the grand homecoming in December. For coordination and for details about the events and activities, please email or call up any of the following batch members: Jojo de Jesus (email: jvdejesus6@yahoo.com; cell: 09772114750); Nilo Ezequiel (email: nilo. ezequiel0977@gmail.com; cell: 09257200926; Antonio Sibulo, MD (email: assjrmd@gmail. com).

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

december 1-7, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

6

Profits for doing nothing after Thanksgiving The Metamorphosis

ErniE D. DElfin THE weekend after Black Friday, post Thanksgiving Day, I was still alone in a big house, one of the rare times that I am, as my wife with several friends are in a Holy Land tour while my daughter and her family are vacationing in Denver, Colorado.

It was good that my son EJ, who is also by himself in his place in Arcadia, came home and treated me to a very nice Cuban cuisine in Irvine.

Although the weather was almost summer-like with very pleasant ocean breeze, it made me quite pensive and lazy. It is times like these that I am truly free, to clear toxins from my body as well the weariness of my soul, and do nothing, if I wanted to. It is the best time to be true to myself, doing what my spirit and my mind want, a powerful force that the body just obligingly follows.

And that is exactly what I am doing now: gardening, cooking, eating and now pounding the keyboard to express what my spirit wants me to communicate.

Indeed, with social media and Asian Journal, I am able to communicate with thousands of you out there, wherever the internet is accessible. In so many ways, there is also some “fruits” of being alone, by simply doing some mental or spiritual work, when many are on temporary hibernation except those who are working in hospitals, jails or shopping centers.

Thanksgiving can and should be practiced everyday.

When we wake up and open our eyes in the morning, what you hear and see and what you smell are enough BIG reasons to be grateful. When we are reasonably healthy, inside our own bodies are the most

magnificent creations of an awesome God. When we have the natural appetite and there is enough food to eat is another simple reason to be grateful, as billions of people do not enjoy every day.

On a day with about 80 degrees in Huntington Beach, I decided to mostly spend it acting like a tourist by taking some pictures at the foot of the.

It was an interesting afternoon as I enjoyed conversing with some vendors and even got a good prospect for my financial services business! The longer I live, the more I am convinced that the aspirations of most people are the same: health, happiness and peace of mind for them and their families.

Despite toxic news from TV and newspapers, at the end of the day, what matters most is how you spend your day, happiness and how it affected other people, or if you added your share of “bad news” to the world.

I am reminded of a great retreat master, who told us that to be truly happy is to have JOY (JesusOthersYourself, in that order) in our hearts and live it out daily. Reversing that order will never bring real joy, he admonished. I never forgotten that advice and do my best to follow it as much as I can.

Along the way, true happiness and joy emanate from a grateful heart, and thanking HIM for what we a have, and never comparing ourselves to others who may have more in possessions.

To end my weekend, I passed by Sts. Simon & Jude Catholic Church (the only Franciscan managed church in the Diocese of Orange). The Saturday evening mass was just about to start, so I completed my Sunday mass obligation 20 hours earlier! The homily delivered by the charismatic Franciscan friar was perfect to conclude my leisurely and happy day, as he reaffirmed that indeed there is only one KING worthy of admiration and worth

emulating. The only king that gives us true JOY is Jesus, the King of Kings!

What a great day, the less than a gallon of gas plus 10 quarters in the parking meter and under $10 hamburger lunch was worth a hundred times. Plus the inner happiness that I felt pretending that I was a tourist enjoying. Every weekend this part of Huntington Beach is always full of people especially during summer months! Come, visit this place and if you FB message me in advance, I can even meet you there and buy you a Starbucks or lunch, as your incentive for spending some gallons of your ga$!

Postscript: In just a week is December and the beginning of Advent, in preparation for the birthday of JESUS. As we prepare for these joyful holidays, it is my hope that we do not follow what the secular world wants us to do, to be “politically correct,” by removing Christ from Christmas.

More and more people say HAPPY HOLIDAYS, rather than MERRY CHRISTMAS as it used to be. If we are afraid to manifest our beliefs and faith to others, then we are to be blamed for the decline of our rich Christian faith that our many martyrs and saints gallantly died for. If we are scared to even utter MERRY CHRISTMAS, then we are not worthy to be called Christians, or followers of Christ! As a practicing Catholic, I challenge all my brothers and sisters NOT to ever remove CHRIST in our Celebration of HIS birthday and to make HIM the centerpiece in our homes with HIS Holy Family. Christ is the reason for this Christmas season. Either we are with HIM or we are against Him! Merry Christmas to all!

May you enjoy what Christmas brings to all of us who believe in its true meaning. Peace to all men of goodwill. *** Email: ernie.delfin@gmail.com Website: www.gkerc.org www.gk1world.com

Beating the Big C: Twenty years after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, actress Maritoni Fernandez is a fitspiration role model.

Philstar.com photo

Maritoni Fernandez: This cancer survivor is a fitspiration

by Mylene

Mendoza-dayrit Philstar.com

MARITONI Fernandez is a cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer when she was 31 years old. She courageously fought and inspires others to do the same until now, almost 20 years after that health episode.

To her friends, gym mates, and followers on social media, she is a fitness role model. We bumped into her in the gym and asked her and her long-time personal trainer Carl Sabeniano a few questions.

The Philippine Star: What makes Maritoni Fernandez a fitspiration?

Maritoni fernandez: I think I’m a fitness inspiration simply because of my discipline. I’m 48 years old and I’ve been an athlete pretty much all my life. I’ve loved sports and I don’t think there’s any I haven’t at least tried.

Some I’ve ended up being very good at and others I’ve been awful at, but the secret is that I am open to trying any sport and trying to enjoy it.

How often do you work out?

I work out at least twice a week. I try for three times but the minimum is twice. My workout consists of mostly weights and cross training at Gold’s Gym. I have a great trainer who knows me and my body, and keeps me challenged.

Are you active outside of the gym?

I am very active. I live in a threestory house and so have the stairs to thank for my stamina, but I play badminton and have played it for years.

I’m not as active at it as I’d like to be anymore as my schedule is crazy.

What have you achieved in the

gym so far? What is your new fitness goal?

I think what I’ve achieved in the gym through my regular workouts is strength and a body that kicks ass at my age. Hahaha! My current fitness goal is simply maintenance. To stay as fit as I am today. To be able to maintain my figure without having to worry too much about what I eat.

Do you have a favorite exercise?

How do you keep your workout routines challenging and fun?

Hahahaha ... I don’t think I have a favorite exercise. I have the ones I find easier and the ones I dread, but with regular training, even the ones I dread become easier and it’s mostly in the kind kasi when I’m doing themna, I surprise myself due to the fact na kaya naman pala and I’m actually not dying while doing them — like the one-arm pushup Carl made me do last week.

I keep my routines dynamic and challenging by making sure I have a trainer who challenges me each time.

Carl changes up my routine each time so I don’t get bored and my body is constantly challenged. The change also keeps me engaged and I find that fun.

Do you follow a certain diet?

I eat whatever I like so no, I don’t have a strict diet plan as such. I don’t eat anything in excess though. I just try to have a little bit of anything I like. That way, I don’t feel deprived which is what makes me overeat.

Also I drink my Herb-All IAM Amazing Barley Drink every day. That keeps me detoxified from all the bad stuff we tend to feed our body.

Any wellness wisdom you’d like to share?

Wellness wisdom? Hahaha, okay.

I guess I might say that my secret is simple. Eat what you like but in moderation. Exercise regularly, doing something you enjoy so you’ll actually stick to it. Sleep at least six hours a day. Take naps in traffic. They do wonders for your well-being. Wellness is not a short-term thing. It’s a lifestyle choice so you have to look at it long term. Eat right. Exercise.

Rest enough and always hydrate a lot! Nothing beats that. Lastly, my ultimate weapon and secret? Taking my Herb-All barley every day. It really does keep me healthy and the doctor away! For inquiries, you may text 0917-8103091.

So, how does her PT Carl see her as a client?

“She is a successful businesswoman, a hands-on mother of two, and a breast cancer survivor. The fact that she can balance all these roles with fitness is very inspiring.

So far, she has achieved flatter abs, toned arms, shoulders, and glutes.

We maintain her endurance for her everyday activities and she wants to maintain what we have achieved. She wants to improve her pull-up and be able to do more complex functional exercises,” Carl shared.

“Kettlebell exercises are her favorite. I make her workouts challenging by doing functional multi-joint exercises and mixing two-three exercises in one movement. She has a strict diet of barley, salad, fruits, and fish. She is very diciplined when it comes to her food intake. She advocates that it’s very important to take care of your health, that diet is as important as working out, and that you should always find time to exercise,” Carl added.

Luke Conde, Paulo Angeles, Jimboy Martin and Ryle Santiago

What you should know about the...

From Page 3 6. Jimboy Martin, 20 (Oct. 12, 1997), #HumbleDreamer (5’11”, 165 lbs.): Describe your ideal girl.

Maganda, mabait, at hindi maarte.

How many times have you fallen in love? Maraming beses na. One line from a movie that you can’t forget? “There is knowledge from everywhere. Go get it fromanywhere you can,” from Three Idiots.

7. Nikko Natividad, 24 (Feb. 13, 1993), #GandangLalakiWinner (5’7”, 153 lbs.): How many times have you fallen in love? Five times.

What are you looking for in a girl? Sweet and faithful. Your ideal girl is standing in front of you; whatwould you say or do? Yayakapin ko siya kaagad at sasabihan ko ng “I love you.” What turns you off?’Yung walang faith in God. 8. Ronnie Alonte, 21 (Oct. 26, 1996), #PassionateActor (5’10”,

180 lbs.): What are you looking for in a girl? Simple lang. Maganda, mabait at maka-Diyos. Higit sa lahat, ‘yung kaya akong mahalin ng totoo. What turns you off? ’Yung may bisyo. What kind of boyfriend are you? Responsible, mabait at mapagmahal.

What’s your favorite movie?

Zombieland. What’s your favorite food? Maling. What scares you the most? Ipis.

9. Tom Doromal, 21 (Nov. 28, 1996), #DavaoCutie (5’8”, 152 lbs.): How would you describe an ideal girl? Spontaneous. Parang kung saan lang kami dalhin ng mga paa namin. What turns you off? Pag mahal ko, wala siguro.

How many times have you fallen in love? Three times. Do you believe in second chances? Yes, kasi kahit ako, I was given a second chance.

10. Mccoy de Leon, 22 (Feb. 20, 1995), #BoyNextDoor (5’6”,

143 lbs.): How would you describe an ideal date? Sa simbahan.

Your ideal girl? Basta masayang kasama, kuntento na ako d’un.

What turns you off? Hindi mapagmahal sa pamilya at hindi maka-Diyos. Your favorite movie? Pursuit of Happyness.

Your favorite food? Tocino.

One funny incident from your childhood? Maagang pagtigil sa pagtangkad.

11. Jon Lucas, 22 (Aug. 18, 1995), #Directioner (5’9”, 175 lbs.): What are you looking for in a girl? ’Yung may takot sa Diyos, may respeto sa akin at sa mga magulang ko. May disiplina, atmapagkakatiwalaan. What turns you off? ’Yung palasagot sa mga magulang. What kind of boyfriend are you? Maraming hindi maniniwala dahil sa first impression ng iba sa akin, pero loyal talaga ako, guys! Promise, honest talaga ako.

december 1-7, 2017

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The curious case... Marcos, Manglapus scions wed in Ilocos www.asianjournal.com

From Page 5 Navy, with Service # 3759920 and that he had entered the service in California. The approximate date of death was December 15, 1945 in Manila, Philippines.

Davis earned a Purple Heart Award posthumously. Just like the other Davis in Hawaii, there were no remains recovered. The name of Stephen C. Davis is inscribed in one of the hemicycles on the west side in the American Cemetery near Forbes Park and what used to be Fort Bonifacio, a military camp sold to private real estate developers during the nineteen nineties and now known as The Fort in Global City.

There is absolutely no way to verify every minute detail of this cold murder case unless one is a tenacious private investigator with the mixed pedigree of a bloodhound and a bulldog. One thing that comes across clearly, at least to me, is that the ghost of Stephen C. Davis, whether real or conjured by hypnotic suggestion, didn’t seem to be obsessed with vengeance or justice although he did seem knowledgeable about his killer’s whereabouts. Underneath the bone-chilling poltergeist tactics his restless soul employed to reach out from beyond the grave, he was no more than a lonely soul whose young life was cut down so suddenly and so tragically one dark moonless night. Stuck in a nebulous, nether world between the living and the world beyond, nothing seemed to be as important to this murdered American soldier as being remembered. It didn’t matter even if the remembrance is by a motley crew of curious, total strangers.

With a sigh of relief over the realization that the spirit was neither

malevolent nor malicious, Stephen C. Davis would probably have to deal with an incensed group of total strangers who would gladly take turns putting their hands around his poltergeist neck and choking him, if they could, for scaring them half to death while using the rest rooms.

The ghost simply wanted to call attention to his plight, to being stuck in limbo or trapped in a dimension that defies time and space. Scaring mortals was one heck of a way to do it.

If you remember the movie “Ghost” there was one such paranormal being who was practically forced into mentoring Patrick Swayze’s character in the ways of poltergeists. The movie character is a disembodied soul trapped in one dimension. He inhabited a New York subway because he was pushed on the path of a train and died. He was stuck and could not cross over to the other side because his time had not yet come.

So he spends his time morosely bent on mischief scaring the living daylights out of subway commuters.

Because his approximate death anniversary is supposedly December 15, Stephen C. Davis is again reaching out from the grave one more time from another century, so that he may be remembered and included in prayers just once more until he reaches final closure and eternal rest. Do pray for him if you can.

If Stephen Davis’s story holds up, it is clear that to be forgotten as though one’s life didn’t matter is indeed tragic. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com

History: cardiac...

From Page 5 ostracized and derided. In 1980, De Wood was able to prove by angiography his theory that virtually in every heart attack there was a clot blocking the artery. This was a revolutionary change in cardiology which has led to the modern clot-dissolving therapy to prevent a full-blown heart attack and save heart muscles and save lives.

This has dramatically improved survival from heart attack.

Angioplasty opens new horizons In 1977, the first angioplasty was performed by Andreas Gruentzig, M.D., of Zurich, Switzerland, to “open up” a tight blockage in a coronary artery. This was improved on by the invention of “stent” (a tiny mesh tube of coiled spring, like car shock absorbers) to keep the angioplastied artery from re-collapsing and re-closing.

The stainless steel stents were then improved on with the introduction of drug-coated stents that keep the angioplastied artery patent (open) much longer.

Robotic heart surgery In May 1998, the first coronary bypass using the da Vinci robot was performed with a mini-chest incision. A year later, the first totally endoscopic da Vinci robotic coronary bypass surgery was accomplished with no chest incision, except for small holes, through which instruments were inserted and manipulated. With the more sophisticated da Vinci robots today, cardiac surgery and other specialty surgeries are routinely performed.

There are at least 21 industrial robotic firms and 11 surgical robotic companies in the United States. Robotic surgery is a standard part of the surgical residency training today. It is evident that the use of robots is the trend for most surgeries. The widespread use in the industrial arena is far ahead compared to that in surgery for obvious reasons.

About 400,000 coronary artery bypass graft surgeries (CABG) are performed annually in the U. S. The past decade has seen about 30 percent decrease in CABG operations because of the minimally invasive option called coronary angioplasty and stenting. Around 700,000 coronary angioplasties and more than 1,700 robotic cardiac surgeries are done annually in the U.S. alone.

TAVR: Hope for the rejected Another more recent advance in cardiac surgery is Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) or Implantation (TAVI), which was first performed by Cribier and associates on April 16, 2002. This is a much less invasive procedure to replace a severely diseased aortic

valve (with no chest incision) among old, high-risk patients with other major illnesses, who were, before TAVR was developed, deemed inoperable and hopeless.

The past half a century brought us life-saving knowledge and discoveries in cardiovascular medicine and surgery. Since then, the mortality rate from coronary heart disease, among other illnesses, has coasted down in a steep plunge, from its record peak in the early 1960s. People today are healthier and live longer — thanks to all the dreamers, explorers, and brilliant minds in the various sectors of sciences and technologies.

With the mind-boggling advances in computers, it is apparent that the best is yet to come.

No one discovery or invention could be awarded all the credit for improving the standard of care.

Most of the new innovations have built upon, and improved on the ones before them. Each technology – from computer science to medical science – has made possible the development of better, safer, and more effective diagnostic procedures and/or therapies.

“Insanity and audacity” Many of the great minds in medicine who dared to espouse new concepts or to alter the “status quo” had faced ridicule and contempt of their peers who thought their “ideas and concepts” were inspired by “misinformation”, if not by “insanity and stupid audacity.” However, as medical history shows, these pioneering physicians were vindicated, and humanity was the better for their vision and courage to risk their name and reputation to venture into the world of possibilities to help mankind.

However, the potential positive impact on mankind of all these cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art evidencebased medicine and surgery are dependent on the wisdom, will, personal behavior, and lifestyle of the individual. Beneficial information and bountiful resources are only useful when taken advantage of and wisely utilized to the fullest for ourselves and our family.

As always, our health is, to a significant degree, in our hands.

*** 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

THE grandchildren of 1965 presidential candidates Ferdinand Marcos and Raul Manglapus — political rivals throughout the former’s strongman rule — were wedded in Ilocos Norte on Saturday, Nov. 25, an event the Marcos camp touted as the emergence of an “Ilocano Romeo and Juliet story.”

Michael Ferdinand Manotoc, the second of three sons of Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, married Carina Amelia Manglapus, daughter of Manglapus’ youngest son Francis, at the massive Spanish baroque church of San Agustin in Paoay town.

The pair officially got married in Makati City on Wednesday, November 22, in a private family ceremony.

Following Ilocano culture, Saturday was their “bales,” a traditional celebration held when an Ilocano couple marry outside of their hometown.

Marcos defeated Manglapus and Diosdado Macapagal in the bitterly contested 1965 presidential election.

During Martial Law, Manglapus spent 14 years in exile in the United States, where he founded the Movement for Free Philippines and remained one of the leading Filipino opposition figures alongside Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and Jose Diokno.

Manglapus returned to the Philippines after the 1986 ouster of Marcos, and was named Foreign Af-

Michael Ferdinand Manotoc, son of Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, and Carina Amelia Manglapus, granddaughter of former senator and foreign secretary Raul Manglapus, pose for their wedding photo with the Paoay Church as backdrop.

fairs secretary by President Corazon Aquino. When Marcos passed away in exile in 1989, Manglapus was among those who opposed the return of his remains to the country.

Both shared an interest in culture and the arts, with Manglapus having remained a composer and musical performer until he passed away in 1999. Marcos instituted an age of cultural renaissance during his presidency. Both had also written books exploring democracy and political revolution.

Their grandchildren, Mike and

Cara, met over a decade later in 2014, at the wedding of Luis Marcos Araneta, the son of Marcos’ second daughter Irene. Cara had been a guest of Xandra Rocha, Luis’ wife.

Though an unlikely pair due to the family history and the MarcosManglapus feud, the two nurtured their relationship and produced a baby girl, Amelia Margarita, in March 2016.

In a statement, the Marcos Presidential Center said: “The baby girl has drawn the two families closer together, widening the path for rec-

onciliation of political differences.”

“Neither Mike nor Cara, however, have expressed interest in entering politics. Cara has committed to a singing career, even joining the jazz band that [Manglapus] had founded, and sometimes performing with another contemporary band,” it said.

Cara went to Ateneo de Manila like his grandfather, and graduated with a degree in creative writing.

Mike is a lawyer, passing the bar in 2014 after graduating from the UP College of Law. (ManilaTimes.net)

december 1-7, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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