La midweek edition may 10 12, 2017 by Asian Journal Community Newspapers

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Janet Lim-Napoles acquitted in illegal DATELINE USA US, PH launch first detention case, eyed as state witness Balikatan under FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Duterte admin

THE Philippines and United States formally launched their 12-day Balikatan war games on Monday, May 8. In its opening ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim underscored Balikatan as an “important military exercise” that has become a “meaningful embodiment of strong partnership” between the two countries. Balikatan, which literally means “shoulder to shoulder,” is considered the biggest military joint activity bound by the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the U.S. “Balikatan is always a very important exercise. It is a very special and meaningful embodiment of our robust bilateral relationship and reflects not only our strong military partnership but also the deep friendship between our two peoples, mutually beneficial economic

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

THE Philippine Court of Appeals this week acquitted alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles from her serious illegal detention case. In a 35-page decision by its Twelfth

Division, the CA reversed the earlier ruling of the Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC) and said that prosecutors failed to prove that Napoles detained her cousin and pork barrel scam whistleblower Benhur Luy against his will. Earlier in 2014, Napoles was sen-

tenced to reclusion perpetua—or an imprisonment term of 21 to 40 years—when the Makati Regional RTC found Napoles guilty of detaining Luy from December 2012 to March 2013. The CA, however, ruled that Napoles’s guilt was not proven beyond

US reiterates commitment to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea

UNITED States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim has reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to preserving freedom of navigation and flight in the South China Sea. Kim made the statement amid reports that U.S. President Donald Trump is disregarding China’s supposed incursions in the disputed sea as part of pursuing the country’s cooperation in stopping North Korea’s nuclear activities. “I have not seen such reporting but what I can say is our basic position has not changed,” Kim told reporters on Sunday, May 7 on the sidelines of the 75th anniversary of Corregidor’s fall during World War II. Kim stressed that the freedom of navigation and flight in the South China Sea is not only a concern of the U.S. but of the international

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by ALEXIS

ROMERO Philstar.com

STOP THE KILLINGS. Activists pose as victims of extrajudicial killings during a rally at the Chino Roces Bridge in Manila on Tuesday, May 9. An alliance of human rights organizations monitoring the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the country’s rights situation by the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland has criticized the Philippine government for misleading the rights body. The UPR Watch said the Philippine report submitted to the UNHRC did not reﬂect the realities on the ground. Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman

PH delegation defends Duterte’s drug war in Geneva

MANILA - The Philippine government is still awaiting United States President Donald Trump’s formal invitation for President Duterte to visit the White House, a foreign affairs official said. Acting foreign affairs spokesman Robespierre Bolivar said Duterte could only give a response once a formal invitation has been sent. “When the formal invitation comes, if the President accepts we will formally convey the acceptance and then we will work out the details,” Bolivar told reporters in Malacañang. In a phone call last April 29, Trump invited Duterte to visit the White House, drawing flak from critics who believe that leaders linked to human rights violations should not be welcomed to America’s seat of power. The phone conversation, which was described by officials as “warm” and “friendly,” also touched on the bilateral ties of Manila and Washington and the threat posed by North Korea. Duterte previously said he could not yet make a commitment on Trump’s invitation because of his other planned foreign trips. “I’m tied up. I cannot make any definite promise,”

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Cayetano questions Callamard’s fairness before UN

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

AMID international criticism, the Philippine government on Monday, May 8, defended its drug war and other policies before the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. During the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on the status of human rights record in the country, the Philippine dele-

gation, co-lead by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, refuted the alleged existence of state-sponsored killings of drug suspects and criminals in the country, asserting the government’s high regard for human rights and rule of law. Cayetano lamented how critics and the media’s supposed “alternative facts” and “fake news,” ruined the country’s image before the international community. “There is a deliberate attempt

to include all homicides as state-sponsored extrajudicial killings,” the senator argued, assailing reports that label deaths under investigation as part of Duterte’s drug war. “[Fake news] created a domino effect of the foreign media, picking up from news reports in the Philippines, which also alerted human rights groups, which are also getting the wrong information,” he explained.

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‘Excited’ Pacquiao starts training for Horn fight by AJPRESS

A THRILLED Manny Pacquiao formally started his training on Monday, May 8, in preparation for his upcoming match against Australian Jeff Horn. The Filipino boxing champion is set to defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight title against Horn on July 2 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia. “I am excited to go back to the gym after about a six-month’s lay off. I really miss training at the gym with the members of Team Pacquiao and fans around,” Pacquiao told PhilBoxing. com. Pacquiao, who is also a member of the Philippine Senate, has apparently Manny Pacquiao on Monday, May, 8 has began his preparation for his WBO welterweight been busy with his legislative duties championship defense against Jeff Horn on July 2.

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Palace: No formal invite yet for Duterte from Trump

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U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim

“reasonable doubt.” “We hold that the evidence against [Napoles] is not sufficient to establish her participation or culpability in the alleged criminal conspiracy. The prosecution has not discharged its burden of proof in establishing

Photo by Wendell Alinea

since his unanimous win against Jessie Vargas last November 5. But even with almost six months of inactivity, his childhood friend and cotrainer Buboy Fernandez is confident that the boxer-senator will be in his best form during his July fight. “He trains hard at the gym and keeps himself in good shape even when there’s no fight. So, we expect him to be in tip-top shape during the scheduled fight,” Fernandez said. Pacquiao is training at Elorde Boxing Gym near the Mall of Asia commercial complex until May 31. Fernandez and Nonoy Neri are overseeing the initial phase of his training. Meanwhile, coach Freddie Roach is

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Jose de Venecia Jr., special envoy for inter-cultural dialogue of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

De Venecia named special envoy for intercultural dialogue by NESTOR

CORRALES Inquirer.net

FORMER Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. was named as a special envoy for inter-cultural dialogue of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Malacañang said Tuesday, May 9. De Venecia was among the presidential appointees announced by Malacañang. DFA spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar said De Venecia would serve his new post until September 2017. Bolivar said this was “in recognition of his active role in promoting inter-cultural and inter-faith dialogue for many years.” “As Special Envoy, his duties are basically to advise the government regarding inter-cultural dialogue issues and to make recommendations to the govt on how to advance PH interests as regards this issue,” he said in a text message to reporters. De Venecia served as Speaker from 1992 to 1998 and from 2001 to 2008. ■

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From the Front Page Palace: No formal invite yet for Duterte... PH delegation defends... PAGE A1 t

PAGE A1 t

Cayetano clarified that for every 100 legitimate police operations, only five people were killed for supposedly resisting the police. He added that there are “more deaths due to police operations because law enforcers are now conducting operations every day.” “If only there was a less political, more unbiased and fair way of describing what is happening in the Philippines, we will be having a more constructive discussion rather than groups throwing alternative facts and fake news,” he said. While there may have been killings, “there can be no compromise on human rights and dignity of human life,” he said. The senator went on to say, “illegal drugs can easily destroy a whole generation… Unless we recognize the relationship of illegal drugs, especially crystal Meth or Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, to violent crimes

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano

and poverty, we will not understand the Philippine situation.” Citing the achievements of anti-illegal drugs campaign, Cayetano cited that 1.266 million pushers and users have surrendered, while 64,917 have been arrested. In its presentation of the country’s human rights-based development programs, Cayetano also affirmed government’s

commitment “to real change, to peace and development and to addressing the problems of poverty and inequality.” Likewise, he reaffirmed the Duterte administration’s commitment to various international treaties ratified in the previous years. “The Duterte administration has vowed to integrate the human rights agenda in its development initiatives to protect all, especially the most vulnerable sectors, including but not limited to, the indigenous people, children, women, migrant workers, elderly, domestic workers, persons with disabilities, farmers, laborers and members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community,” Cayetano further added. The UPR aims to improve the human rights situations of its member states. The Philippines’ first and second UPR reviews took place in 2008 and 2012 rePAGE A4

he told reporters in Davao City last May 1. The Chief Executive is scheduled to go to Cambodia, Hong Kong, China and Russia this month. He is also expected to visit Israel but details of the trip have yet to be released. The relationship between the Philippines and its traditional ally the US has been rocky since Duterte assumed office because of differences on the President’s crackdown on illegal drugs. The US under then president Barack Obama had called out Duterte for the spate of killings tied to his anti-drug campaign, a move that the Philippine leader viewed as an intrusion into his country’s internal affairs. Duterte has repeatedly denied condoning extrajudicial killings but has repeatedly advised policemen to shoot drug suspects

President Duterte takes a call from US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of a gala dinner for leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations at the Sofitel Hotel in Pasay City last April 29. Holding the phone for Duterte is presidential assistant Christopher Go.

who pose threats to their lives. While Duterte was antagonistic towards Obama, he is opti-

mistic that he would be able to work well with Trump, whom he described as “pragmatic.” n

‘Excited’ Pacquiao starts training... PAGE A1 t expected to arrive in the Philippines later this week. By the end of the month, Pacquiao said he’ll start training at his own Wildcard Boxing Gym in General Santos City until the third week of June. Despite being a heavy favorite, Pacquiao said that he’s not going to underestimate Horn. Pacquiao’s nine-week training schedule against Horn is

apparently his longest since his match against to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2015, during which he trained for more than two months. “Katunayan yan na (To be honest) I’m not taking this fight lightly as some sectors think I am,” Pacquiao said. “At hindi ko rin ina-underestimate and kalaban ko (And I am not underestimating my opponent).”

Pacquiao, 38, has a record of 59-6-2 win-loss-draw. He won his last match via unanimous decision and defended his WBO welterweight title against Jessie Vargas last year. On the other hand, 29-yearold Horn has a record of 16-0-1 and 11 KOs. The Philippine Congress will start its month-long break on June 1 and will resume its session on July 2. n

By the end of the month, Pacquiao said he’ll start training at his own Wildcard Boxing Gym in General Santos City until the third week of June. Photo by Wendell Alinea

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Dateline USa

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US, PH launch first Balikatan under...

PAGE A1 ties and very importantly our shared history and shared interest,” Kim said. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who assumed office in June last year, previously threatened to scrap military games with the U.S. amid his administration’s pivot to China and Russia. While Duterte has been persuaded to continue joint exercises, adjustments, however were made upon his orders. This year’s Balikatan, the first bilateral exercise under the Duterte administration, involves only 2,600 American soldiers and 2,800 of their Filipino counterparts—which is less than half the total of 12,000 participants in 2015. The two militaries will also focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) and fighting terrorism instead of the usual boosting of maritime defense capabilities, particularly in South China. Despite the scaled down Balikatan exercise, both its U.S. and Philippine directors expressed the mutual importance of the military exchange and are still expecting a “very productive” outcome this year. “We’re looking forward to a very productive 33rd Balikatan Exercises and this year’s themes were discussed and will touch on the humanitarian and disaster relief and counterterrorism. And so we are looking forward to a great

Philippine and American security and foreign affairs officials on Monday, May 8 opened the annual Balikatan exercise which focuses on humanitarian and disaster relief this year. Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV

couple of weeks,” Lt. Gen. Lawrence Nicholson, U.S. co-director for Balikatan. Nicholson also remarked that working with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is a privilege for U.S. troops. “So whether it’s during other exercises, whether it’s Balikatan, whether it’s smaller individual efforts, when we get a chance to train with the AFP that’s great for us’” Nicholson said. AFP chief General Eduardo Año also underscored the mutual benefits of the exercises, citing the two countries’ long history of cooperation. “Our armed forces have continuously shared ordeals that have

strengthened our bond. It is an avenue for us to enhance cooperation between our military forces and an opportunity to test and validate our forces’ inter-operability,” Año said. While this year’s Balikatan just commenced, Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, Philippine co-director for the Balikatan, revealed that plans for next year’s drills are already being discussed. “The planning exercise for Balikatan ’18 is already being discussed,” Lactao said, without further elaboration. Lactao also expressed confidence that this year’s Balikatan would be “a very successful exercise.” (AJPress)

PH delegation defends... PAGE A2 t spectively. ‘Rapporteurs must be factual and fair’ Cayetano also questioned the impartiality and fairness of Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard over her statements against Duterte’s drug war before the UN Human Rights Council. “Please look at the tweets and statements of this special rapporteur, your excellencies. If you were Filipino and you read these slides, would you think that the rapporteur is factual, is fair?” Cayetano asked. The senator emphasized that it is essential for rapporteurs to “always appear to be” factual, fair and just. “The system of sending special rapporteurs has oftentimes been effective. But sometimes this could create more harm than good especially when human rights is politicized,” he

said. In her recent criticisms against the Duterte administration’s drug campaign, Callamard warned that “ill-conceived drug policies” would not only fail to address the drug menace, but would also foster a “regime of impunity” that leads to fear and despair. Cayetano stressed that a dialogue is only effective when “there is mutual trust and respect and the aim is constructive engagement.” “As a general rule, engagement should not be adversarial,” he added. Duterte previously invited Callamard to come to the Philippines and investigate the claims. The invitation, however, comes with conditions: these include a public debate with Duterte and that the UN special rapporteur should take an oath to “confirm her intention to be truthful.”

BOMB SCARE. Members of the Explosives and Ordnance Disposal Unit of the Manila Police District inspect a package abandoned at Quezon Bridge on Sunday. The area was near the site of an explosion on Saturday that killed two persons and injured six others. ManilaTimes.net photo by Rusell Palma

Janet Lim-Napoles acquitted in illegal...

PAGE A1 the commission of the crime charged and in identifying [Napoles] as the malefactor responsible for it,” the decision, dated May 5, 2017, read. While the CA’s ruling indicates that Napoles should now “be immediately released from detention, unless she is confined for any lawful case,” the businesswoman remains detained for separate plunder charges against her. Following her acquittal, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II revealed that Napoles is now being considered as a state witness in the planned reinvestigation of the multibillion-peso Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) anomaly.

Callamard, however, rejected the conditions, saying these were inconsistent with the Special Rapporteur Code of Conduct and Terms of Reference for country visits. She also suggested having a joint press conference instead of public debate. Several UN-membering states—Bulgaria, France, Ger- PAGE A1 many, Ghana, Hungary, Lithua- community as well. nia, Latvia and Peru—urged the “We continue to believe proPhilippines to allow Callamard tecting freedom of navigation is conduct an investigation into not just a U.S. issue but it’s for the alleged extrajudicial killings the whole international commuin connection with the drug war nity,” the envoy said. without any conditions. Last week, the New York Times Australia, Brazil, Chile, Costa reported that the Pentagon had Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, turned down a U.S. Pacific ComVatican City, Iceland, Luxem- mand request to permit U.S. warbourg, the Netherlands, New ships to sail within 12 nautical Zealand, Portugal, Sierra Leone, miles of the Scarborough Shoal Spain, Slovenia, Switzerland, in the South China Sea. United Kingdom, and the UnitThe newspaper also said in its ed States have also expressed report that no U.S. ship has gone concern over the alleged sum- within 12 miles of any of the dismary executions. n puted islands in the sea since

Legal experts, however, doubt Napoles’s qualifications as state witness since she was in fact accused of being the mastermind of the anomalous distribution of the PDAF, also referred to as pork barrel, from 2004 to 2010. Napoles’s camp expressed confidence that she would also be dismissed from the plunder and graft cases filed against her before the Sandiganbayan. “I’m very happy that finally, the truth has triumphed. We knew then that there was no truth to (Luy’s) claim of illegal detention,” Stephen David, her lawyer, told Inquirer. Highlighting her need of protection, he said they would also seek the house arrest of Napoles “if she would be made

state witness.” In a statement, Malacañang said that the government did not interfere with the cases involving Napoles and dismissed claims that President Rodrigo Duterte made a deal with her. “Government is clear that there is no policy shift on how we deal with Napoles. Neither there is an agreement forged between the Duterte administration and Napoles,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said. Abella maintained that Duterte respects the independence of the court and “has vowed not to interfere with the decisions of the judiciary or legislature.” Malacañang also guaranteed PAGE A5

US reiterates commitment... Trump assumed the presidency earlier this year. Quoting a certain analyst, CNN reported that this may have been part of Trump’s strategy to get China’s support against North Korea’s nuclear threats. Kim, however, dismissed such reports, saying that Washington’s stance “has not changed.” “Freedom of navigation and freedom of flight…these are very fundamental rights not just strategically but in protecting the flow of international trade…so our position has not changed,” Kim said. Sought for comments, Philip-

pine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana doused speculations that the decreased American forces would affect the presence of Filipino troops in the Philippine-controlled Spratlys in the South China Sea. “I don’t think so. We can still go to our [forces] in Pag-asa,” Lorenzana said. Also referred to as Tithu Island, Pag-asa is the largest Philippine-controlled island among the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the Spratlys. “We hope that freedom of navigation is maintained there,” Lorenzana added. (AJPress)

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DATELINE USA

LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 10-12, 2017

Clock is ticking on GOP bill: 5 ways health care tug-of-war may play out ROVNER Kaiser Health News

THE House may pass its bill to repeal and replace parts of the Affordable Care Act. But Republicans’ pathway to fulfilling their seven-year effort to undo the federal health law is getting narrower by the day. “As of now, they still don’t have the votes,” said Rep. Pete King (R-N.Y.) as he was leaving a meeting of GOP members Tuesday. King has been a target for those pushing both for and against the bill. The latest snag is over whether people with preexisting health conditions should have guaranteed access to affordable coverage, as the ACA mandates. An amendment that would let states waive some of those requirements has garnered the votes of reluctant conservatives but left more moderate Republicans concerned. By Wednesday, however, the combination of pressure from House leaders and President Donald Trump himself seemed to be turning at least some votes. Following a White House meeting, Rep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.), a former chairman of the House committee that handles most health issues, said he would vote for the bill if it added an additional $8 billion to help those with health problems pay for coverage. That same promised amendment also changed the vote of Trump supporter Rep. Billy Long (R-Mo.), who said earlier in the week he planned to vote against the measure. House leaders stressed that they are still working to muster a majority to pass the bill, which

was originally scheduled for a full floor vote in March. Here are some possible ways the effort could play out. 1. The House passes its bill soon. Approval in the House would send the measure to the Senate, where the fight will be very different. Congress is using a special budget procedure that allows the bill to pass with 51 votes. There are only 52 Republicans in the Senate, so they can’t afford to lose more than two GOP votes, assuming every Democrat opposes the measure. In that case, Vice President Mike Pence would be needed to break a tie. While this special procedure makes the bill easier for Republicans to pass, the Senate’s budget “reconciliation” process must follow a series of specific rulesthat exclude provisions that don’t directly affect the federal budget. Various parts of the House bill, including a recent change to let states waive some coverage rules that has ignited concerns about preexisting conditions, have been mentioned as possible violations of those Senate rules and would have to be taken out in order to qualify for the protections of reconciliation. The Senate may also amend the bill and the House would have to approve those changes, which could again break the delicate coalition of House GOP support. 2. The House walks away from the debate. In theory, if the GOP votes necessary to pass the bill continue to be elusive, the House could just leave health care for

another day — or another year. That would be a huge setback for President Donald Trump, who campaigned on a pledge to “repeal and replace” the health law, as well as for congressional Republicans, who have been promising to do the same since the bill became law in 2010. But if the law truly implodes for 2018, meaning insurers drop out of so many areas that millions of people have no insurance options, it could trigger an entirely different health debate. 3. The House decides to switch gears to tax reform. Health care is not the Republicans’ only high priority. So is an overhaul of the federal tax code. But Republicans want to use the same budget reconciliation procedure to pass their tax plan. That’s a problem. In order to make sweeping tax changes under expedited budget rules, the House and Senate would have to move on to a fiscal 2018 budget resolution, which would override the 2017 budget blueprint. But as soon as it does, the protections for the health bill would expire. There is another option. Each budget resolution can allow one spending bill and one tax bill to be protected by reconciliation rules. So Congress could simply start the process over in a 2018 budget resolution that would allow it to move on tax reform and changes to the health law simultaneously. 4. Congress tries to overhaul health law incrementally. The House could abandon the budget process and simply pass bills without regard to whether they have an effect on the budget. The first step, though, would

likely be for the House to repeal the ACA wholesale — giving Republicans political cover. Then they could take up smaller pieces of legislation, such as a bill that would allow health insurance to be purchased across state lines, a favorite idea of Trump’s. Those bills, however, would require 60 votes in the Senate, which seems unlikely given Democratic opposition. If the GOP efforts to bring wholesale change to the ACA are exhausted, though, it may be possible for some moderate Republicans to craft legislation with Democrats to fix some of the issues that both parties see in the law. 5. The Senate gets rid of the legislative filibuster. The Senate earlier this year abolished the need for 60 votes to fill a Supreme Court seat, which got Trump’s nominee, Neil Gorsuch, approved. Trump has been calling for Republicans to also get rid of the filibuster for legislation. “Either elect more Republican Senators in 2018 or change the rules now to 51%,” he tweeted on Tuesday. But the legislative filibuster is the last protection for a Senate minority party, and Republicans know they will someday be that minority again. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has said repeatedly he has no intention of taking this step, telling reporters Tuesday it “would fundamentally change the way the Senate has worked for a very long time.” And even if he changed his mind, he might have trouble persuading some of his Republican colleagues to go along. ■

Janet Lim-Napoles acquitted in illegal detention case... PAGE A4 that Napoles’s acquittal from the serious illegal detention case does not affect the plunder cases lodged against her. “The Court of Appeals acquitting Ms. Janet Napoles involves her illegal detention case. It has no direct impact on her porkbarrel cases,” Abella said. Meanwhile, Akbayan Rep. Tom Villarin remarked the bar of justice has “gone to the dogs.” “The standard of justice under the Duterte administration Janet Lim Napoles is serving her life sentence at the Correctional Institution for Women in has gone to the dogs,” he said. Mandaluyong City. Philstar.com ﬁle photo “We are witnessing how big-

time plunderers are being acquitted by the courts.” Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate also expressed “grave dismal” over the CA’s decision, saying, “we must be very wary of this development because as things stand now, many of those who have been charged [with] plundering the people’s coffers are getting off the hook.” “Dapat na magbantay at sabayan ng protesta ng taong bayan ang mga pangyayaring ito (We should keep watch and meet with people’s protest this latest development),” he added. ■

WHEELS ARE ALL YOU NEED. May is Bike Month.

Bike Month 2017 Join Metro in celebrating one of humanity’s greatest inventions: the bicycle. The festivities take place throughout May, and there’s a lot to get excited about. Learn how to repair your bike at informative workshops, participate in Bike to Work Day on May 18th, and check out Bike Night at Union Station on May 26th for food and fun. Learn more at metro.net/bikemonth.

Metro Seeks Input on 2018 Fiscal Year Budget Metro’s annual budget sets transportation priorities across LA County for the coming year. Metro will gather comments on the 2018 >scal year proposed budget at a public hearing on May 17th, before formal adoption by the Board of Directors. For hearing information or to provide your comments, go to metro.net/budgetcomments.

Metro Protects Our Operators At Metro, safety is our number one priority. We strive to keep our passengers safe, as well as our operators. Our bus operators pride themselves on getting riders to their destinations smoothly. An assault against an operator will not be tolerated. Please, if you see something, say something and call 888.950.SAFE.

Take a Tour of Metro Rail Did you know you can ride directly to popular Southern California destinations, such as downtown Santa Monica, Universal Studios and Grand Central Market on Metro Rail? Learn how to get started with a FREE guided tour of the Metro Expo, Red or Purple Lines. You’ll get useful tips on how to plan your trip, buy a pass, and ride the Metro Rail and bus system. To reserve your spot, visit metro.net/tours.

metro.net @metrolosangeles losangelesmetro

by JULIE

A6 MAY 10-12, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

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OPINION

The PDAF queen is back

FEATURES

AFTER managing to stay under the radar while being incarcerated for one of the biggest scandals in Philippine politics, pork barrel or Philippine Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles is back under intense media scrutiny. Napoles, who is currently detained at the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong City since 2015, was recently acquitted by the Court of Appeals in the illegal detention case filed by whistleblower Benhur Luy. However, the PDAF queen will remain behind bars while still facing the string of non-bailable plunder and graft cases charged against her by the Sandiganbayan. In its decision to reverse the 2015 ruling which sentenced Napoles to life imprisonment, the Court of Appeals’ 12 Division said that the evidence presented by the prosecutors were “grossly insufficient to sustain a conviction” and falls below the required proof of crime beyond reasonable doubt. After her recent legal victory, Napoles is now being considered as a state witness in the government’s planned reinvestigation of the multibillionpeso controversy. Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II revealed that his team is already planning to meet with Napoles to review the PDAF cases. “She should have knowledge of everything because it all came from her. If what she would say will be coupled with documents, then there is no reason why she should not be credible,” Aguirre

explained. If she becomes a state witness, Napoles is not only guaranteed government protection, she would also be free from all the charges that had been filed against her. Malacañang assured that there has been no policy shift with regard to the PDAF scam and that Napoles will not be used to persecute the current administration’s opponents. “The Duterte administration has never, will never and can never enter into sweetheart deals. It’s very strict on the observance of the rule of law and following constitutional due process,” presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo told reporters. As one can recall, at the heat of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee’s investigation into the alleged misuse of public funds in November 2013, Napoles had the perfect opportunity to implicate more personalities into the PDAF scam when the Senate threw her to the deep end, with hard-hitting questions to reveal the truth on her alleged collusion with lawmakers and other government officials to funnel huge sums from the PDAF. Instead of spilling the beans, Napoles stuck to her legal strategy by continuously invoking her right against self-incrimination and remaining tight-lipped throughout the grilling session.

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

Now that she is given a second chance, will truth afford Napoles the constitutional protections she wants? Will she be a valuable asset in revealing more truth—and justice at the end of this pork barrel saga?

From here on out, the Philippine government and its members stand in a parlous position. Every riveting detail of the pork barrel saga will further bring consciousness to the nation that has been subjected to this hullabaloo. (AJPress)

The ‘war on drugs’: Saying too much is saying nothing

Street Talk GREG B. MACABENTA SOCIAL media have been abuzz over a tweet attributed to Dr. Agnes Callamard, Special Rapporteur from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, who was recently in Manila as a keynote speaker at a forum organized by the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG). The controversial tweet reads: “@AgnesCallamard - Prof Carl Hart: No evidence Shabu leads to violence or brain damage. #Philippines drug policy forum” It should be clarified that the “Dr.” attached to Callamard’s name has nothing to do with being a medical specialist or psychiatrist. She has a PhD in Political Science, thus the “Dr.” appellation. Her official position in the UN is Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions. Wikipedia describes her as “an expert on a number of international and UN human rights

initiatives.” No mention at all of any expertise on the effects of drugs like shabu on people. Of course, Callamard didn’t claim that the tweeted opinion was hers, but if she has any understanding of the dynamics of communications, she should have known that quoting a third person’s opinion could be misunderstood as endorsing it. Not surprisingly, that led people to assume that the opinion was her own. Callamard’s tweet on shabu reminds me of a screening in California of a movie that had Manny Pacquiao in the lead role. Having been invited to the event, I was asked what I thought of Pacquiao’s performance. My response: “As an actor, Manny Pacquiao is an excellent boxer.” I was too polite to suggest that he should not quit his day job. With due respect to Callamard, she should have limited her social media postings to the subject of ”extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions”—conceivably, her area of expertise.

In advertising, there is an axiom: Saying too much is saying nothing. By making that needless tweet, Callamard shifted the discussion to her debatable familiarity with the effects of shabu, and away from the very serious problem of extra-judicial killings. I’m guessing that Philippine Ambassador to the UN, Teddy Boy Locsin, welcomed Callamard’s tweet, because it gave him respite from a defensive and indefensible position at the UN. He must have relished calling Callamard an “idiot” and, by extension, implying that she had been dispatched to the Philippines by fellow idiots in the UN. I have one more point to make, and this is on the opinion of Prof. Carl Hart that there is “no evidence shabu leads to violence or brain damage” and his findings that “85-90 per cent of people who used illegal drugs do not become addicted.” Has Hart tried to play Russian Roulette? Cocking a six-shooter with only one bullet loaded means that the odds are five-

to-one that he will not blow his brains out. But will he take that chance? At any rate, all of these innuendoes unnecessarily draw attention away from the real issue at hand. Extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions. No amount of legalistic somersaults by the apologists of President Rodrigo Duterte and no amount of childish namecalling by his die-hard fans can justify the number of questionable killings perpetrated during Duterte’s first year in office. Like Callamard, Duterte’s apologists have been saying too much and really saying nothing. They have made a big thing of the “inconsistency” in the number of deaths reported, ranging from 3,000 to 8,000. And they have pointed to Singapore’s harsh anti-drug policy – death by hanging - to justify the killings. Note, however, that there were only 259 drug-related executions in Singapore from 1991 to 2017 or a period of 26 years, according to statistics compiled by Amnesty International.

Pray tell, is there any comparison with Duterte’s thousands in only one year? Indeed, Singapore has been unforgiving in its campaign against drugs, but in a March 2017 speech, Minister for Home Affairs K Shanmugam asserted: “The death penalty is applied only and strictly in the context of an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. In fact, you could argue that a prerequisite is an unwavering commitment to the rule of law, resting on a strong and independent judiciary. There must be fair and transparent laws and due process… Capital punishment is carried out only after due judicial process and in accordance with the law.” Even Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo, known to also take a hardline against the drug menace, has expressed reservations about a “shoot on sight” policy: “If it was allowed by law then I would order the National Police and the BNN [National Narcotics Agency] chief to do so, but luckily it is not.” Can Duterte and his Chief of Executioners, Philippine Na-

tional Police Director General Ronald “Bato” de la Rosa say as much? Have the police killed alleged drug users or pushers “in the context of an unwavering commitment to the rule of law” as Singapore insists it does, and “only after due judicial process and in accordance with the law”? Are people supposed to believe that everyone killed in the course of a drug raid “resisted arrest” and “tried to draw their guns” at the police? Are people supposed to believe that this was what happened when Albuera, Leyte Mayor Rolando Espinosa and a cell companion, Raul Yap, were shot in cold blood inside their jail cell by elements of the PNP? Can Ambassador Teddy Boy Locsin and Duterte apologist Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano attribute to “due process” the killing of Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo inside Camp Crame, near the office of De la Rosa, after a “tokhang” raid? Is it humane for Duterte to dismiss the deaths of young

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CHR head Gascon now the biggest threat to human rights rule. IRONIC as it may • Gascon and the seem, it is Jose “Chi- Commentary CHR he leads now to” Gascon, the Comhave therefore lost mission on Human their credibility as Rights chairman that human rights (HR) President Benigno champions, with their Aquino 3rd appointed accusations of HR vioin June 2015, who has lations received with emerged as the big- RIGOBERTO TIGLAO such suspicion and gest stumbling block to the development of institutions and a cynicism, that little has been done to political culture that would defend hu- develop respect for human rights in the country, and to instill fear in those who man rights in this country. I base this conclusion on the follow- would violate such rights. Because of his politicized stance, Gascon has been ing arguments: Gascon, the last straggler of the Yel- unable to get the cooperation from othlow Party still in government, has politi- er government agencies, to the detricized the issue of human rights in the ment of human rights in the country. Every time I see a photo of Gascon, I Philippines, and has transformed it into a propaganda weapon against Presi- can see either former President Aquino dent Duterte. He is the very first CHR 3rd or Mar Roxas or Sen. Franklin Drilchairman since the agency’s establish- on at his back as ghosts whispering to ment in 1987 to do so, to have adopted him, how to hit the government. Gascon is, as it were, the Liberal Paran openly belligerent stance against the ty’s remaining ranking cadre still enincumbent administration. • As such, Gascon’s thrust and ac- sconced in a government agency with tivities since Duterte took power hasn’t a budget of P500 million yearly, and been to build up the institutions neces- which has been paying him P4 million sary to propagate a culture of respect annually. (His salary grade of 31 is just for human rights. It has been to paint two notches lower than the President’s this administration as a wanton violator 33.) He was the executive director of the of human rights, mainly by convincing foreign bodies to believe so. His real Liberal Party’s think tank, the National agenda is to convince Filipinos to rise Institute for Policy Studies, the director up against Duterte and restore Yellow general of the Liberal Party from 2008

to 2011, and the political director of its 2010 electoral campaign. After that, he was at Aquino’s beck and call in the Office of the President at the same time that he was a board member of the Bases Conversion Development Authority. As Yellow as can be In short, Gascon is as Yellow as can be, and the Yellow Cult’s big hope of killing Duterte with a thousand humanrights-violations cuts. Not only has his party loyalty determined his stance and actions. Gascon has that kind of Manichaean and messianic world view so typical of activists who went against Marcos only when it was clear the dictatorship would be collapsing. As Marcos was the Evil Lord he helped defeat, Duterte is now for Gascon the Dark King he will overthrow, as he practically stated in his oh-so melodramatic speech at the CHR’s recent anniversary: “We have entered a period of darkness, the sun is gone, night has fallen. Although we are a tropical country, winter has come. It is in this period of darkness that we shall all be tested as we fight for human rights. “ This is a guy who must have watched too many Game of Thrones episodes, or think of himself as the Aragorn who would defeat the Dark Lord Saruman. That line “night has fallen”, if you will

remember, was exactly the headline of Time magazine cover story that was one of the first hatchet jobs abasing Duterte. My sources have informed me it is Gascon himself who has been feeding the foreign and a section of the local press, mainly the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Rappler (both of which have had puff pieces on him), with material they could use to portray government as waging a ruthless war against illegal drugs and grossly violating Filipinos’ human rights. Gascon also teamed up with the Free Legal Aid Group (FLAG) lawyers to assist former Davao police officer Arturo Lascañas in his campaign to claim that Duterte himself participated in the Davao Death Squad. One can’t underestimate Gascon’s skill in conspiracies: He was the Liberal Party operator that plotted the breakaway from former President Gloria Arroyo of the traitorous Hyatt 10 which, if not for that President’s grit would have meant the collapse of her government. Gascon and Callamard It was Gascon who invited UN Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard to give a speech at the CHR’s anniversary event. Callamard has been so obnoxiously critical of the country’s war against drugs there is a tsunami of outrage against her. It was even the CHR that

paid Callamard’s air fare and five-star accommodation. One demonstration of Gascon’s propaganda expertise was when his staff brought media to a cell in a precinct in Tondo which was blown up to be portrayed as “secret cells”. The connotation of course was that since the detainees were concealed, they would be executed soon. The “raid” was undertaken in the evening when it would be dark outside the window, which therefore made it appear closed, necessary for such a cell to be kept secret. Daytime photos of the cell though show a huge window with bars. And that operation was timed during the Asean Summit. Such an issue of course wasn’t new, as the nation has been shocked in the past several months by photos of horrific overcrowding in jails not only in Manila but in Cebu City. But if Gascon was authentically concerned about this, he could have asked his staff to prepare a detailed study on how much there is of such overcrowding, and propose a plan to be submitted to Congress which can fund the building of more jails. The task of creating institutions and a political culture that upholds the rights of each individual is a daunting and really tedious one, which took the West generations to achieve. Who wouldn’t want such respect for human rights?

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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MAy 10-12, 2017

Dateline PhiliPPines

De Lima backs limits to sale of US guns, ammo to PH US, UK warn citizens against travel to Palawan by MArlon

rAMos Inquirer.net

MANILA — Detained Sen. Leila de Lima has thrown her support behind a move in the US Senate to restrict the sale of guns and other war armaments to the Philippines amid the unabated killings that has characterized President Duterte’s brutal drug war. “I support the bipartisan efforts in the US Senate to introduce such important piece of legislation to hold our law enforcement authorities accountable to the thousands of human rights violations committed under the all-out war on drugs,” De Lima said in a statement. “This is a vital step forward in ensuring that the rule of law and respect (for) human rights prevail in modern democracies such as the Philippines. We cannot allow the state to oppress its critics and from using arms to curtail our fundamental rights,” she said. While the Duterte administration and its allies were claiming that the government’s take-noprisoners strategy against illegal drugs had made the country more peaceful, she said “our people are living in fear that they or someone close to them might fall victim to extrajudicial kill-

by Audrey

MorAllo Philstar.com

Sen. Leila de Lima

ings.” De Lima, who has been indicted for drug trafficking after speaking against Mr. Duterte’s war on drugs, said the proposed measure, introduced by US Senators Ben Cardin and Marco Rubio, would help “put an end to this national nightmare.” De Lima stressed: “Under our modern democracy, it is important and necessary that governments around the world impose strict measures against arms and weapons from falling (into) the hands of unscrupulous individuals, especially among rogue law

The ‘war on drugs’... PAGE A6 children, in the course of drugrelated shootings, as “collateral damage” Are people supposed to believe that the PNP has absolutely nothing to do with the thousands of killings attributed to “vigilantes”? Vice-President Leni Robredo has been accused of “shaming the Philippines” for her video message to the 60thannual meeting of the UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs in Vienna in which she reported that “more than 7,000 people (had) been killed in summary executions.” Robredo has been accused of “lying to the world.” But if she was lying about the killings, wouldn’t that make Duterte a liar too? After all, he is the one who has been bragging about filling

Manila Bay with dead bodies in his war on drugs. In a December report by AFP News Agency, Duterte was quoted as follows: “In Davao I used to do it personally. I’d go around in Davao with a motorcycle, with a big bike around (sic), and I would just patrol the streets, looking for trouble also. I was really looking for a confrontation so I could kill.” Did Robredo’s report to the UN shame the Philippines more than Duterte has done with his boasting about personally killing people and his assertion that “Hitler massacred three million Jews…Now, there are 3 million drug addicts. ... I’d be happy to slaughter them”? As to the “shaming of the Philippines” ostensibly caused by Robredo and by those who

officers.” Once enacted, the proposed bill, titled “The Philippines Human Rights Accountability and Counternarcotic Acts of 2017,” would impose restrictions on the sale of US-made defense articles to the Philippine National Police. But Sen. Panfilo Lacson, a former PNP chief, said the Philippine government could always look for other sources of firearms and military hardware. “There are other sources of guns aside from America,” he said in a radio interview. n have brought the issue of extrajudicial killings to the attention of the UN, it may serve a good purpose to recall the preface (English translation) of Dr. Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere where he justified his frank exposure of the social cancer afflicting his beloved country: “Desiring thy welfare, which is our own, and seeking the best treatment, I will do with thee what the ancients did with their sick, exposing them on the steps of the temple so that everyone who came to invoke the Divinity might offer them a remedy. “And to this end, I will strive to reproduce thy condition faithfully, without discriminations; I will raise a part of the veil that covers the evil, sacrificing to truth everything, even vanity itself, since, as thy son, I am conscious that I also suffer from thy defects and weaknesses.” (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

MANILA — The American and the British embassies in Manila issued on Tuesday, May 9 a travel advisory for their citizens who plan to visit the province of Palawan just days after two bombs rocked the capital city of Manila. In its latest travel advisory, the US Embassy advised citizens to be vigilant and carefully consider traveling to Palawan, including Puerto Princesa and areas surrounding the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, following information it received that terrorist groups were planning to kidnap foreign nationals in the said locations. “The US Embassy has received credible information that terrorist groups may be planning to conduct kidnapping operations targeting foreign nationals in the areas of Palawan province, Philippines, to include Puerto Princesa City, and the areas surrounding Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park,” the advisory read. It added: “U.S. citizens are advised to carefully consider this information as they make their travel plans and to review personal security plans, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and remain vigilant at all times.” The UK, citing the American travel advisory, told its citizens to carefully consider their travel plans and exercise heightened vigilance in the said areas. It said: “You should carefully consider travel plans, and exercise heightened vigilance in these areas.” This travel advisory is the latest

The U.S. and the British embassies in Manila warned Americans against traveling to Palawan, including Puerto Princesa and the areas surrounding Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, following information it received that terrorist organizations were planning to target tourists there. Philstar.com file photo

issued on the Philippines in recent weeks. On Sunday, the United Kingdom also alerted and told its citizens to avoid the Quiapo area after two explosions there killed two people and hurt six others. During a summit of the leaders of Southeast Asian nations, another explosion shook the area and injured more than a dozen. The so-called Islamic State (IS or ISIS) claimed responsibility for the blasts, but security officials insisted that the explosions were not related to terrorism. Central Visayas advisory In April during one of the busiest travel seasons in the country, several governments including the U.S., Australia, New Zealand and France warned their citizens against traveling to central Philippines after receiving information that a terrorist organization was planning to kidnap tourists there. The American embassy said that

based on their Worldwide Caution issued on March 6 there was an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens abroad including the Philippines. It said that these groups had targeted venues where large crowds gather such as sporting events, theaters, markets and mass transportation systems. “U.S. citizens should be mindful of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines,” the embassy said. The travel warning comes as the Philippines is trying to request several governments to lift the advisories they issued in the past month in an effort to reenergize the country’s tourism which is reeling from falling tourist numbers and visit cancellations due to recent security-related issues. n

CHR head Gascon now the biggest... PAGE A6 But this cannot be done in the way Gascon assumes that Duterte has adopted a state policy of violating human rights, so that his response would be to discredit him so much he would be toppled, to be replaced by a lover of human rights, who of course would be a Liberal Party loyalist. Such a task requires painstaking work outside the glare of news media. Among these: working with the police to undertake continuous education on the importance of human rights;

the strengthening of the police internal affairs offices (or even the establishment of human rights desks, as in the case of their women’s desks); working with Congress so it could pass the laws necessary for human rights (or just allocate a bigger budget to build proper jails); and most importantly, the rigorous investigation and prosecution of cases of human rights violations as a deterrent. But that won’t seem to be glorious enough tasks for Gascon. If he still has an ember of pa-

triotism and has real concern for human rights, Gascon should resign as CHR head, before his term ends in 2022. I’m sure with his talent, he can recoup elsewhere the P4 million he is getting from the agency. If he decides to be kapit-tuko, to use that Filipino term, I hope the other four commissioners and even the CHR staff revolt against this Yellow straggler. Duterte I’m sure can find many Filipinos with a real concern for human rights. (ManilaTimes. net)

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LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 10-12, 2017

BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY OURNAL

Asia-Pacific banks compliant with international

standards— Fitch by CATHERINE

TALAVERA Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines - Banks in Asia-Pacific (APAC) countries are “largely compliant” with international standards in line with the Basel III framework, but a possible delay in its implementation is seen as APAC regulators follow the pace of their global peers, Fitch Ratings said. In its May 2017 update of the APAC Banks Regulatory Compendium, Fitch Ratings said most APAC countries were compliant with the international standards set by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS), based on the regulatory consistency assessment programmes (RCAP) it conducted. Despite the overall large compliance, Fitch said APAC coun-

tries, including the Philippines, could see a delay in the second wave of Basel III rules. “Implementation of the second wave of Basel III rules might continue to be delayed in the Asia-Pacific by a lack of progress in other markets, as regulators in this region have remained reluctant to take a lead in implementing requirements ahead of their global peers, Fitch Ratings said However, Fitch Ratings said the credit profiles of APAC banks are unlikely to be significantly affected. “We expect most APAC regulators will continue to push ahead with consultations, and plan to be ready to meet scheduled deadlines, even if implementation is likely to be contingent on international progress,” Fitch Ratings said. ■

New Asia financial crisis now less likely

by MAYVELIN

U. CARABALLO ManilaTimes.net

THE likelihood of another Asia Financial Crisis (AFC) in the future has been reduced by the efforts of all economies in the region to work together to install mechanisms for financial support, Philippine Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said. Dominguez made the remark at the opening of the Host Country Seminar in Yokohama organized by the Japanese government, the Philippine Department of Finance (DoF) said in a statement released in Manila on Friday. The seminar is part of a series of events organized by Japan as host country of the 50th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This year’s meeting held May 4 to 7 focuses

on the region’s increasing need for infrastructure as a critical element toward achieving sustainable and inclusive growth. Dominguez cited the Asian economies’ successful efforts over the past two decades to improve corporate governance and develop regional mechanisms to ensure financial stability and avoid a repeat of the economic crisis that buffeted the region in 1997, the DoF said. “That does not mean, however, that our regulatory authorities should let down their guard,” Dominguez was quoted as saying. “The 1997 crisis tells us that lax regulation and poor policies could cause a quickly spreading crisis. I trust we will always be in constant conversation, such as this one, to spare our

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Government to sell PAGCOR casinos by BEN

O. DE VERA Inquirer.net

YOKOHAMA, Japan—The government will sell the casinos of state-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) before yearend in line with moves for the staterun firm to stick to its regulatory mandate and let go of commercial functions, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III said. Dominguez noted that Pagcor-run casinos

could no longer compete with private-led casinos. “If our casinos were to replace a glass that’s broken, I think it will take ages as compared to what Okada and Solaire can do. It’s better [for the government] to move out of [casino operations],” Dominguez told reporters on the sidelines of the Asian Development Bank’s 50th annual meeting. “And secondly, of course, it will remove the conflict of interest when you are the reg-

ulator as well,” Dominguez added. The finance chief said the casinos’ licenses as well as facilities would be bid out before the end of the year. Feelers from firms Dominguez said the Privatization Council was studying how to price the casino assets. So far, the government has yet to receive feelers from firms that may bid for

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Max’s eyes expansion to Europe

by IRIS

GONZALES Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines - Max’s Group Inc. (MGI) plans to continue strengthening its international presence and may even make its foray in Europe, its top official said. MGI president and CEO Robert Trota told reporters following the company’s annual stockholders meeting yesterday that they remain on the lookout for opportunities overseas.

“There’s continued interest. The international market alone is making waves and gaining ground as we expand. Our reputation and promises have been delivered so that is why we are getting inquiries,” Trota said. At present, the company is already in the Middle East, North America and Asia. Trota said these areas have room for expansion and the company may finally make its debut in Europe. “We are in China, Singapore, Vietnam so that particular area

has room for expansion…Europe is still under penetrated but the clamour for Europe is there so hopefully, we can get there pretty soon,” Trota said. Among the company’s brands include Max’s, Pancake House, Yellow Cab and Teriyaki Boy. Last year, the company reported a net income of P561.74 million, up 12 percent. Trota said the growth from delivery has been growing double digit and is likely to continue

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Business news

B MAY 10-12, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

Bifurcation and status only divorce

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrsUA reyes THE decision to terminate one’s marriage typically brings to the forefront many issues all at once. Issues pertaining to property, support, and child custody need to be addressed in a divorce proceeding. In a long term marriage especially, these issues are often heavily litigated between the spouses, and can take a significant amount of time to resolve. Frequently, a spouse would like to “move on,” and re-attain single status as soon as possible, but has a perception that to become divorced, issues concerning property, support, and child custody first need to be resolved. Many erroneously believe that getting a divorce prior to resolution of property, support, and custody issues is like putting the “carriage before the horse”—an impossibility. Under the Family Code, a spouse can “bifurcate” the issue of marital status and terminate the marriage without having to wait until the issues pertaining to property, support, and child custody are resolved. A judgment dissolving the marriage need not resolve all issues raised in the divorce petition. If there are issues set forth in the petition with regard to property, support, and custody, the Court may nonetheless separate the issue of dissolution of marriage status and grant an early trial on that issue (a “status only”

“

judgment). Obtaining a “status only” judgment is most beneficial to those persons who want his or her marriage terminated as soon as possible. Through a “status only” judgment, a person is restored to single status more quickly, enabling a person to remarry even if other issues concerning the marriage have yet to be resolved. It is important to note, however, that a judgment terminating the marriage itself also brings

indemnifying the other spouse from loss of rights to a probate homestead or probate family allowance, 4) indemnify the other spouse for loss of benefits under employee benefit plans, 5) joinder of an employee benefit plan, and 6) any other condition that the court determines is just and equitable. With a “status only” judgment, the Court reserves jurisdiction to adjudicate any other issues concerning the marriage, including division of property, award of support, and custody issues. Accordingly, if you would like to obtain a “status only” judgment, and resolve any other issues pertaining to the marriage later, it is advised that you consult with an experienced attorney.

”

Government to sell PAGCOR...

PAGE B1 t

Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng

CLIENT no. 1 is 50 years old and the manager of a big retail store. He’s been working there for 30 years. Spouse got into an accident and is now on disability. He owns a house with $200K of equity. He has believe it or not, 11 children from age 2 to 18. Just imagine his food expense every month! He owes $60K of credit card debt. Since his wife became disabled, he applied for a loan modification of his first mortgage. His first mortgage payment is $2800. His gross income is $80K. With wife’s disability pay, they gross $100K a year. But with 11 kids, and $60K of credit card debt, something has to give. He can’t pay the minimum credit card payments of $1800 anymore. So he wants a Chapter 7 to get rid of the $60K credit cards. But does he qualify for a Chapter 7 discharge? Well, in terms *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified of the means test, there certainly with it the consequence of ter- Family Law Specialist. He was President of is no presumption of abuse beminating rights associated with the Philippine American Bar Association. He marriage. To address the fore- is a member of both the Family law section and going, the Court may impose Immigration law section of the Los Angeles conditions on a “status only” County Bar Association. He has extensive judgment, to preserve rights CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW PAGE B1 t which normally would exist if OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located economies the trauma of finanan early dissolution of marriage at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, cial uncertainty,” he said. In his remarks at the seminar, status were not granted. These CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail conditions are contained in Fam- kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Dominguez noted the old fisKenreyeslaw.com. cal and corporate practices that ily Code Section 2337. The Court plunged Asia into a crisis 20 may require a spouse seeking *** early dissolution of marriage sta- Please note that this article is not legal advice years ago and the subsequent tus to do any of the following, all and is not intended as legal advice. The article is changes that were made to build designed to protect the interests intended to provide only general, non-specific legal up the region’s resilience against of the spouse who is not seeking information. This article is not intended to cover financial market volatilities: The region’s major economies early dissolution: 1) indemnify all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the other spouse for adverse tax the outcome different than would be anticipated by used to maintain fixed foreign consequences resulting from the you. This article does create any attorney client exchange (forex) rates, but toearly termination of marital sta- relationship between you and the Law Offices day nearly all countries in Asia tus, 2) maintain the other spouse of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a have flexible rate regimes that on existing health insurance, 3) solicitation. (Advertising Supplement) allow market conditions to define currency values to prevent borrowers and lenders from underestimating forex risks. Before the 1997 Asian fireau of the Treasury. These funds first three months of this year, nancial flu struck, corporaare used in community and so- Pagcor recorded a 26.75-percent tions were highly leveraged, cial projects of the government. jump in year-on-year net income with balance sheets that had currency mismatches. Conflicts of interest. President to P1.3 billion. It reported gross high “Today, our economies are Duterte had told Pagcor last year income from gaming operations that it had to privatize its casinos of P14 billion compared with P11 better governed, having introduced corporate and finanto raise funds for state coffers. billion in the same period in 2016. Pagcor paid a total of P7.37 cial restructuring measures. It followed concern from private Our corporations understand casino operators who suggested billion in gaming taxes and con- the importance of good govertributions to the government in that there might be possible conthe first quarter of 2017. Pagcor nance procedures. They appreciflicts of interest as Pagcor was Chair Andrea Domingo attrib- ate prudent regulations,” he said. both regulator and operator. Dominguez recalled the masuted the increased profit to the Pagcor is one of the big- effects of an improving market sive capital outflows triggered by gest money-making companies and newly implemented in-house the 1997 crisis: owned by the government. In the efficiency measures. n The outflows made it neces-

Under the Family Code, a spouse can “bifurcate” the issue of marital status and terminate the marriage without having to wait until the issues pertaining to property, support, and child custody are resolved.

Pagcor’s casinos, he said. “Personally, I haven’t gotten [offers] because they haven’t set out the terms of the privatization. You have to set out the terms, then people will come. Of course, we will make it attractive since we do want to raise the revenues from this and remove the conflict [on interest] that’s ongoing and existing,” Dominguez said. Pagcor operates 46 casino properties nationwide and is required by law to give half of its annual gross earnings to the Bu-

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Store manager needs bankruptcy relief cause he has 11 kids. But in a Chapter 7, there is going to be a problem with the residence. The homestead exemption for client is $100K but his equity is $130K. So, there is $30K of nonexempt equity. Theoretically, Chapter 7 could work for client because there is almost no viable nonexempt equity to speak of if you factor in the cost of sale of 6%. The house is current valued at $500K. 6% of $500K is $30K, which is the amount of nonexempt equity. A Chapter 7 trustee would have nothing to administer and theoretically client should be able to keep his house in Chapter 7. The problem is that real estate prices in Los Angeles are still going up. An aggressive Chapter 7 trustee can file an adversary proceeding to have the house sold because of the $30K nonexempt equity. The adversary case may take 18 months to reach trial. By that time, the house value could have

increased by another $50K. The increase in value is justification in favor of the trustee’s argument that there is viable equity for him to administer. Nobody wants this kind of problem in bankruptcy but it happens. I have this exact situation with another client whose case was filed two years ago. The trustee filed an adversary complaint to get his house because the nonexempt portion, according to the trustee was $100K. Our defense was that there was no viable equity for the trustee to administer because there was a judgment lien for $97K. This adversary was due for trial on April 26, 2017. But a week before trial, trustee offered a settlement to enable client to keep his house. Trustee argued that the value of the house had increased “substantially” in the last 18 months resulting in viable nonexempt equity. So this kind of problem does happen in

sary for Asia’s economies to gather fiscal resources to shore up productivity and spur growth, which, in the process, made them fully appreciate the importance of maintaining fiscal deficit ceilings, limits to their respective debt-to-gross domestic product ratios and a diversified tax base. The crisis also made Asia more prudent in regulating banks and supervising corporations, and Dominguez recalled the measures taken by the governments: “We introduced risk-based approaches to regulation and supervision. Our banks have learned to be efficient under a more stringent regulatory regime that raises loan-to-value ratios, increased risk weights, reserve and capital requirements,” he said. “Before the crisis broke out, we were all complacent in the way we did things. We were all surprised when the financial meltdown happened. It hit our economies like a wayward typhoon, punishing companies that underestimated exchange risks and penalizing governments that mistook stable currencies as a measure of the economy’s strength,” Dominguez pointed. “The crisis was a misfortune.

But from it we drew strength. In the twenty years that followed, the economies of this part of the world instituted important reforms that built up resiliency against financial market volatilities,” he added. On top of adopting more prudent practices, Dominguez pointed out that countries in Southeast Asia have also come up with mechanisms for improved cooperation to assure financial stability. Among these mechanisms was the establishment of the Asean + 3 (Association of Southeast Asian Nations and China, Japan, South Korea) Macroeconomic Research Office to enable regional surveillance and the close monitoring of regional trends. Dominguez also cited the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilaterization (CMIM), which established a network of bilateral swap agreements to help limit currency volatility, and the introduction of the CMIM-Precautionary Line, which serves as a crisis prevention facility. The CMIM evolved from the Chiang Mai Initiative, the first regional currency swap arrangement launched by the Asean + 3 countries in May 2000. n

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New Asia financial crisis...

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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA ONE man’s junk is another man’s treasure. Just for a little fun, go garage “sale-ing.” There aren’t as many in the summer season as there are in spring. Many old-timers have to deal with their stuff gathered over the years, a lot of which have long ago outlived their usefulness. For practical purposes, many just want to reclaim the spaces occupied by junk and clutter and re-use the space for some other purpose other than storage. Some simply want to make a few extra bucks. If you have too much stuff and would like to simply reclaim your breathing space or to get rid of what has become dust catchers, you can have fun clearing out your stuff and convert them to cash by becoming the seller. The pace could be faster than selling your stuff on ebay. Don’t just kibitz if you are a

What’s New

On how not to become a pack rat Why do we do it? Why do we encumber ourselves with possessions?. - Alice Thomas Ellis buyer. Enter the flow. Don’t forget to bring along a few kindred souls and some cash. A note of caution is in order. Garage “saleing” is one fun activity that can get out of hand if you let it. Particularly during tough times, a good number of people are becoming creative on how to stretch the dollar and are looking at garage sales, either to sell or to buy. Particularly for newly arrived immigrants or newly married couples starting a new life who are wary of getting into a whopping financial burden by going into debt at the outset, going to garage sales particularly in affluent areas might be an option. Cash remains king. With a little cash, you can go to garage sales, tag sales, estate sales, swap meets and thrift shops to find practically everything that you will need, and more besides, to set you up in your new place — practically for pennies on the dollar, at

least during the beginning years, when you are conserving your resources to prep yourself for the big purchase decisions, e.g. like buying a car or a condo or house, when the time is right.You will be amazed at what you can find. Newer communities with yuppies as residents will have newer, modern, mass-produced plastic or vinyl stuff, the kind that you get at Ikea while older communities will have items from the past, perhaps still in working condition but in outdated styles. Unless those wily antique collectors and estate handlers beat you to estate liquidations as they most often will, if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon treasures or heirloom pieces that you only get to see on “Antiques Roadshow” ringing up unbelievable appraisals. Be warned. Appraisals are just benchmarks of value given

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Tips to protect your company from worker classification audits PART 1

Arlene Al-os, CPA, MBA THE focus of an audit is whether independent contractors should actually be treated as employees. The unpaid taxes for misclassified employees include income taxes, federal unemployment, and FICA withholding and you are on the hook. Here are some TIPS of what you can do now to help mitigate from worker classification audit: • If you are confused if a worker is an employee or an independent contractor, complete Form SS-8 prior to or at the onset of services. Either the business or the worker can file the Form SS8 with the IRS to determine the worker status. This should be considered at the onset of services and NOT months or years later. • Document why a worker is treated as a contractor. Does the contractor offer the same services to other businesses? • Keep competitive bids on file as part of the selection process of independent contractors. • Independent contractor agreement must be in writing

and should specify: maintain own equipment, supplies, software, or pay his own business expenses; scope and timing of work; independent work hours; goals to accomplish; timeline; deliverables; terms of payment; tax obligations, etc. • For each contractor, maintain duly completed and signed Form W-9 with full name, social security or employer identification number, and address. • Maintain a copy of independent contractor’s business liability insurance. If the independent contractor have employees also maintain a copy of workers’ compensation coverage for its workers. • Obtain a copy of current professional license. • Require regular submission of invoices per project and progress billings. There should be no indication of time cards or time sheets. But instead require submission of bids in the performance of each project. • There should be no indication that the independent contractor is part of the company benefits such as medical insurances, sick leave, expense reimbursements,

etc., which a business usually provides to its employees. • Refrain from paying advances or loans to independent contractors instead pay on per progress billings. • Maintain independent contractors files separate from employee records. • Independent contractors files should include: 1) Form W9; 2) Contracts and bids; 3) current business or city license from where the contractor is operating; 4) Business liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance certificate; 6) current professional license; l5) Documented times when work was turned down by the worker. • File Form1099 timely. This is a key to Section 530 relief and access to the Classification Settlement Program. • Require the independent contractor to file the appropriate tax returns. *** Al-os & Associates Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities. The Firm has a niche in defending.

LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL • MAY 10-12, 2017

Calendar of Events across

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS M AY 8 -1 1

FilAm ARTS and Philippine Expressions Bookshop to host art exhibit in San Pedro, CA The Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) and Philippine Expressions Bookshop in partnership with the Croatian Cultural Center of Greater Los Angeles proudly present BUKLOD: A Gathering of Filipino and Filipino-American Art and Artists from May 4 to 11. Over 50 works of art by Filipino and Filipino-American artists are featured in this exhibition, which aims to reassert the presence of Filipino-Americans in the Western canon. Although many Filipino-American artists have been recognized in the art world, their cultural heritage is rarely highlighted nor has there been a body of work categorized as Filipino-American masterpieces in the 600 years of the history of painting. The artists of BUKLOD strive to fill that void with works that instill culture, dignity, and imagination to a cultural landscape that seldom acknowledges and habitually denies them their shared humanity. This exhibition gathers contemporary LA-based artists who anchor their work with their heritage and have an active community involvement to further their respective passion projects as artists. The BUKLOD exhibit opened to the public beginning on May 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., coinciding with the San Pedro’s First Thursdays Artwalk. The exhibit will run until Thursday, May 11 at the Croatian Cultural Center (510 W 7th St, San Pedro, CA 90731).

M AY 1 2

AMBOY presents Filipino Dessert Night in LA AMBOY & Chef Isa Fabro present Filipino dessert night on Friday, May 12 where she and guest chefs will showcase their favorite Filipino sweets and treats. This dessert experience will show why the current breakout in Filipino desserts is something you need to be a part of. It will be held at the second floor of Far East Plaza (727 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012) at 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m., and 10 p.m. It is $48 per guest. To book online, please visit www.universe.com/amboydessertnight or email eatatamboy@gmail.com for any inquiries.

M AY 1 3

Thomasian Engineers Club to hold Gala Ball in Long Beach, CA The Thomasian Engineers Club (The University of Sto. Tomas College of Engineering Alumni Association) will hold its gala ball on Saturday, May 13 at the Long Beach Marriott. The association is headed by President Elsa Camacho. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. For other related questions, please call Norma de los Reyes at (310) 508-1477. The Long Beach Marriott is located at 4700 Airport Plaza Dr., Long Beach, CA 90815.

13th Annual Archdiocesan Celebration of Santacruzan in Los Angeles The Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles invites you to its 13th Annual Santacruzan on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 2:45 p.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels (555 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90012). There will be a free retreat for key participants, presentation of “Sagalas” – young girls and women comprising the Court of Honor for the Procession of the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Eucharistic Celebration, Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Flower Offering, and a Procession accompanied by a “Banda Musiko.” The theme of the celebration is “Mary, Full of Grace, Virgin of Mercy!” The celebration is capped with a Dinner-Dance (with ticket purchase) at Casa Italiana, 1051 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Please contact: Florie Pimentel at (818) 641-8690 or fpimentel08@gmail.com; Eric Cordeta at (310) 930-5443 or epcordeta@juno.com.

Davao Association USA of Southern California’s inaugural ball in Long Beach, CA The Davao Association USA (DAUSA) of Southern California will hold its inaugural ball and induction of officers 2016-2018 on Saturday, May 13 at 6 p.m. at the Long Beach Marriott Hotel (4700 Airport Plaza Drive, Long Beach, CA 90815). All Dabawenyos and friends are invited to celebrate DAUSA’s 24th year anniversary as well and dinner dance with the Babes n Friends band. Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles Adelio Cruz will induct the 12 officers and 15 board of directors of the association. For further information, please contact Jimmy (818) 667-7242 and Jane (323) 333-9048.

M AY 1 9

National Viral Hepatitis Testing Day Stakeholder Breakfast and Conference in Pasadena, CA National Viral Hepatitis Testing Day Stakeholder Breakfast and Conference, co-sponsored by Hep B Free-Los Angeles and Hepatitis C Task Force for Los Angeles County on Friday, May 19. It will be held at Huntington Hospital (100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91105) from 9:30 a.m. to noon, featuring a hepatitis/liver expert panel and roundtable discussion groups. Continental breakfast will be available. Please RSVP by May 12 to Koy Parada at kparada@apu.edu or (818) 599-9132.

AMBOY presents ULAM dinner in LA AMBOY presents a special night on Friday, May 19 with a six course dinner presented by Filipino chefs who will each make one course using their culinary technique and cultural background. Guests in attendance will also receive a VIP ticket to the preview of ULAM – a Filipino food documentary, showing at the Million Dollar Theatre on Saturday May 20th. It will be held at the second floor of Far East Plaza (727 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012) at 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m., and 10 p.m. It is $75 per guest (includes a ticket to ULAM screening). To book online, please visit www.universe.com/amboydinnernight or email eatatamboy@ gmail.com for any inquiries.

M AY 2 0

Carlos Bulosan book club in LA The Echo Park Branch Library* of the LA Public Library system will host the launching of the Carlos Bulosan Book Club (CBBC) organized by Friends of the Echo Park Library (friendsechopark.org) on Saturday, May 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The first book will be “America is in the Heart” by Carlos Bulosan. The moderators will be James Castillo, Dr. Enrique dela Cruz, Vicky Perez & Jaime Geaga. The CBBC’s mission is to provide a forum to explore and learn about the Filipino-American immigrant experience as reflected through Fil-Am literature. It will be held at the Echo Park Library Community Room (1410 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026). To RSVP or for more info, please contact James Castillo at (626) 241-7010 or admin@friendsechopark.org.

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

Max’s eyes expansion...

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growing, possibly at 20 to 30 percent growth. Sales rose 12 percent to P15.34 billion, bringing topline up 10 percent to P11.44 billion. Restaurant sales increased 10 percent to P9.42 billion as the company opened 77 new stores. Sales from online and delivery came in 24 percent higher at P1.08 billion while commissary sales stood relatively flat at P1.26

billion owing to closures of certain franchised outlets. Of the 77 new stores that opened last year, 16 are located overseas. This brought the group’s total network count to 623 branches with 49 situated abroad. The company is on track to increase its outlets to 1,000 outlets by 2020. Offshore, MGI intends to put up over 140 stores in the coming

years. Last year, it was able to secure eight development agreements for at least 80 stores across various geographies. Among the notable markets penetrated for 2016 include China and Singapore. MGI is pouring in P750 million to P800 million for capital expenditures this year, largely for the rollout of another 60 to 70 new stores for its core brands. n

B MAY 10-12, 2017 • LA MIDWEEK ASIAN JOURNAL

EMPLOYMENT

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EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT

On how not to become a... PAGE B3 t as expert opinions, from which buyer and seller can begin negotiation and arrive at a purchase price, which can be higher or lower than appraisal value, depending on the motivation and time frame of both buyer and seller and the perceived intrinsic value of the item being sold. Simply because manufacturers are not making more of it, good handcrafted furniture pieces made from mahogany and other prized hardwood of over 100 years or porcelain ware, hold up their value comparatively well as sought-after prized antiques than disposable, readyto-assemble furniture made from particle board and melamine mass produced in China. Still, there’s no accounting for taste and individual preferences. The younger ones prefer the sheen and gloss of lacquer or the spanking new, modern furniture of plastic, steel or formica over the patina of old, seasoned wood. Whatever your choice, dare to be different. Be creative. Immerse yourself in the books written about styles you would like to emulate. You can have your own

style with very little money. Let your imagination and a little elbow grease help you create your own unique haven. The really creative ones do it on a shoestring budget and still have great fun along the way while earning themselves some bragging rights in creating treasures out of junk. Also, you’re doing your environmental bit by recycling. America is a consumer society and the amount of discarded things is simply staggering. Out with the old, in with the new. Every season brings new fashions and trends and since closet, basement and garage spaces are limited (most times, bursting at the seams) and public storage units cost money, there is an endless round of garage sales going on in America, more so these days when money is tight for many households. You will find that a lot of items, specially for babies and younger children who outgrow their things pretty fast, look almost new and highly usable. Plates, silverware, kitchen items, small and big appliances, decor, furniture, framed art, clothes, videos, audio and video tapes

and tools are the usual fare. Many items are still new and in their original packaging. Sometimes, there are genuine antiques or priceless works of art hidden in dust and grime. That’s when you hit paydirt. But such instances are few and far-between, so keep yourself grounded. There is no sales tax. Check your local community newspapers or go online for these weekend events. The early bird gets the early worm. The earlier you come during the day, the better the selection but the prices will be marked a tad higher unless the seller wants to seriously dispose of his merchandise fast and pack up early. The later in the day you come — from noon to early afternoon — the prices are cut drastically, practically at giveaway rates, but the selection is much less, with junk a-plenty. Learn to negotiate. Read Donald Trump’s “The Art of the Deal.” In America, what you get is not what you deserve. Very often, it is what you negotiate. If you are uncomfortable with haggling and if you happen to be with someone who can dicker with the seller in a courteous, pleasant way, get

him to do it for you. The key is to be respectful. Never disparage what is being sold in the transparent attempt to get a lower price. Many crafty buyers use this as a tactic and instead of getting a better price, all it does is irritate the seller. If you want a lower price on an item you like, ask politely, “Would you take less for this?” And then state the price you are willing to pay. Very often, the seller will counter with a lower price and then you can proceed from there with the price getting tossed back and forth until you agree on the final figure. Merchandise is sold on an “as is” basis and most of the time, is not returnable. Buyer, beware. Inspect closely. There are more trustworthy sellers than there are hucksters. They will tell you if the item is working or if there is a crack or a flaw on it. If you are uneasy about not being able to return things, buy the item new in a department store which will usually take it back, if it is defective. There are no guarantees when you buy stuff at garage sales. You decide on the spot and there is no turning back — most of the time. If you want to hone and practice your decision-making, buying and negotiating skills as an immigrant, this is one inexpensive (translate that to cheap) way to

go. It is also a lighthearted learning experience of what people value and discard on the material level and a personal and up close method of interacting with people of various cultures no book or classroom can teach you. Above all, have fun garage “sale-ing”. The joy of discovering something that you need or want practically at a price of a song and a dance is part of the whole experience. But as in all things good and bad, do this with balance and moderation. If you become obssessive-compulsive with even as trifling a thing as going to garage sales as a matter of habit, you can become a pack rat. Curb the human tendency to be obsessive. With time and as you accumulate things, you will find yourself holding your own garage sales because you have encumbered yourself with too much stuff. Or you might find yourself renting storage spaces for stuff that won’t fit in your home. When this happens you’ve reached a dangerous tipping point. The time has come to trim your possessions down to size and take back some of that breathing space you used to have. Better yet, when you buy one thing, discipline yourself to get rid of 2 items at the same time. It is a feng shui principle to clear

the pathways in your home. Avoid “plaque build-up” in the spaces of your home. Expedite the flow of “chi” or life force by becoming a minimalist. Toss things out. Less is more. From a practical standpoint, you get back the breathing space you had when you first moved in to your empty abode. Having less stuff also means possibly having more in your piggy bank, that will allow you to have better, more meaningful, fulfilling life experiences at the right time. The ironic thing a recovering pack rat discovers about himself is that as he travels down life’s highways and byways, it is so much more liberating and more fun to travel light, refusing to be bogged down by mere possessions. The bonus is that one gets to journey farther without stressing and straining while loading up instead on life’s precious experiences. In our final journey, the only thing we might bring with us in that big blue yonder, if Alzheimer’s doesn’t wreck our brains first, are our MEMORIES. Stuff, after all, is just stuff. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@asianjournalinc.com

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People and Events

PASCPA to have luau in Arcadia, CA on May 20

THE Philippine - American Society of CPAs (PASCPA) will have a Luau on Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at 2606 Greenfield Avenue, Arcadia, California 91006. Accountants of Filipino decent or

heritage are invited to attend. The Luau is a meet-and-greet opportunity for accountants of all ages – seasoned and young accountants. Accounting students are encouraged to attend. Admission is free. The Luau will

feature games, prizes, lechon, native food, and native fruits. Members will also hold an election for new officers and board members. Please RSVP or send inquiries to info@pascpa.org.

Store manager needs...

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Chapter 7 although not often. To avoid this situation, it is the better part of caution to file for Chapter 13. Why? The Chapter 13 trustee, unlike the Chapter 7 trustee, does not have the power to sell debtor’s house. So, in Chapter 13, there is no risk of losing debtor’s house. But in Chapter 13, client must pay at least $30K over 60 months, or $500 a month. After 5 years, client would have paid the trustee $30K. Upon completion of the last payment, the court will discharge the other $30K. So, in 5 years, debtor will not owe any more credit cards as the entire $60K will be gone. Client no. 2 is 64 years old. He is married but separated. He does not have his own children but he helps his nephews and nieces who live abroad with money for the monthly expenses, which include college tuition abroad. He makes a gross of $90K a year as a scientist. He does not own a house. He owes $50K of credit card debt, which is using up $1500 a month of his

net income. Client also likes to gamble. He seems to be good at it because he had $40K of gambling winnings last year. Client wants a Chapter 7 discharge of his $50K of credit cards. Will he qualify for a Chapter 7 discharge given the fact that he is practically single with $90K of gross income a year? That’s a good question. After doing the means test analysis, it appears that there is no presumption of abuse with Chapter 7. On the other hand, if some deductions we claim are disputed by the trustee, there could be some disposable income that will indicate that client has the ability to pay off a portion of his $50K credit card debt. But note that this case is significantly different from the first case because in this case, client does not own a house. So, even if it’s a borderline case, i.e. client can file Chapter 7 or 13, client can file for Chapter 7 relief as long as the IRS deductions are kosher. Kosher means in this case that he can justify the money

that he sends to his nephews and nieces abroad. If he can justify that expense, it can be argued that the nephews and nieces are his dependents even though they do not live with him. Under the worse case, he can convert his case to Chapter 13. However, he has very good chances of getting a Chapter 7 discharge. This is a no brainer for a gambler like client, so he opts for Chapter 7. If you need bankruptcy relief, please call my office for an appointment and I will analyze your case personally. “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all of you who hope in the Lord.” — Psalm 31:24 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. (Advertising Supplement)

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cover story The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 10, 2017

Single moms in their multi-tasking, complicated world:

THE STRUGGLES AND JOYS OF DOING IT ALONE by MALOU LIWANAG-BLEDSOE/AJPRESS

Margaret Fuetes with daughter Alex

from scratch,” she said. “Income was bleak and expenses were over the roof.” According to Fuentes, her road to being a single mother is a complicated one. After migrating, she explained that Alex’s father became lonely and prompted him to fill his “void,” technically ending their relationship. “His filling his ‘void’ resulted to a baby half-brother for Alex, whom she never met and only heard about, and a wife and four stepkids here in California.” But in retrospect, she said, she actually considered herself a single mom from the beginning, as she made all the decisions, even when she and Alex’s dad were still together. “It was just like raising two kids instead of one.” She also shared that she was too busy surviving and keeping her sanity to worry about what other people thought about single moms. “If I were on the outside looking in, I would say that others might say that it’s not plausible, but that is just their mindset. “We were built to be mothers. We even mother people who don’t need it or deserve it. Mothering comes naturally and there is no right and wrong, no manual but so many judges. “It is not a contest to win, it is a life to live. Its main goal is to nurture to bring up your children the best way you could to give them the strength to push on with their own lives. “It is a selfless act of giving life to another person and giving your life to that person without losing yourself and not expecting anything back.” Dulce Aysip, 50ish: “Learn to sit back, relax and enjoy your time with your child or children.” By choice — Dulce Aysip was sure about being a single mother even before she got pregnant with her son, Timothy, who is now 20. “It was my choice, because I wanted to have a child to adore and share my overflowing and unconditional love,” she said. Not going into details, Aysip also shared that she already explained to her son everything he needed to know about his father, with no doubt or fear. With her choice, came many challenges. “Making fair decisions, learning to trust my child (now that he’s almost and adult) and for my child to trust me, try to be emotionally and physically

U.S. CASIN ST O BE

Fritzie Marie Pascua-Umali with her kids Tritzie Samantha Marie (left) and Marvin Nicklaus (right).

continued, “I explained to them that their father wanted to go back to their parents’ house in the other city but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t love them anymore.” An online English coach and freelance events organizer in Manila, Umali faced the task of raising her kids alone. For her, however, the greatest challenge is that she has to be both parents — father and mother — at the same time. “I face this challenge, head on, and thinking that I would be able to do it even if I am alone.” Another hurdle that she had to surpass was the misconception of people about single moms, and the mentality that the blame falls on them. “Most people think that single parents, most especially mothers, were just tossed aside when the kids came,” she said. “People would start to ask you ‘Why are you a single mom?,’ ‘Did you two do something accidentally and your partner regretted the consequences? (referring to the kids).’ ‘Is he not happy about this new life that’s why he left?’ The point is, for single parents, whether a mom or dad, the society’s weight is always on the women.” Margaret Fuentes, 50+ going old: “We were built to be mothers, we even mother people who don’t need it or deserve it.” Margaret Fuentes and her daughter, Angelique (Alex, who is now 27) moved to the United States almost 10 years ago not only had to face the challenges of being a new immigrant, but being a single mother as well. “I had to face the challenges of studies and tuition (Alex came here just in time for college), and building a career

cially when there is no support from their father), helping with schoolwork, being there when your kids are sick, etc. Then there’s the shame and judgment from other people. Sometimes it doesn’t matter if you’re the best mother in the world, as some are quick to judge. This Mother’s Day as we celebrate all our moms/inays/ nanays, we also put our focus on single mothers — whether it is their choice or not. Fritzie Marie Pascua Umali, 40-something: “There might be struggles in raising your kids alone but you’re not alone and eventually as time pass by, you’d look back and say, ‘I did it alone.’” Fritzie Marie Pascua Umali has been separated from her husband for 17 years. Although their two children — daughter Tritzie Samanta Marie (21) and son Marvin Nicklaus (20) — were still very young when they split, Umali shared that they knew the situation. “...They would ask questions on whether or not their father really loved them (or me), or if they would be living in a separate house and who visits who,” Umali shared and

ONE of my very close friends is a single mother. After a failed marriage, she had an affair with a married man and unexpectedly got pregnant. I didn’t know about the affair — or her pregnancy, until I saw about seven months on the way, during a party. She told me about what happened, how the father of her unborn child at that time didn’t want any kind of scandal, and how she felt alone. She had to give up her job to downplay rumors, and had to depend on help from her siblings. When she gave birth to her son, I saw how she struggled to raise him alone, with no support from the biological father. But I also saw how her strength grew, and how the love for her son made life have meaning. Today, her son is in college, doing well. Being a parent is tough. Although I have no children, I have seen my parents, brothers and friends go through parenthood and all of its perils. Having both parents doesn’t make it easy, so just imagine how it would be for a single mother. There’s having to raise your kid (or kids) by yourself, trying to put food on the table (espe-

& AR ES O RT

Dulce Aysip with son Timothy

Cherie Llorin with son Rockwell

stable, and be a mother that my child could depend on,” Aysip said. She also added that she spends 99 percent of her time with Timothy when she’s not working. “The common misconception of people about single moms is that a child is meant to have a father no matter how hard a single mother plays both roles,” she said and then added, “Single moms should learn to sit back, relax and enjoy their child/children. Bring lots of love around your home for a peaceful ambiance.” Cherie Llorin, 43: “Happiness and love starts with me first before I can give that to my son.” It was a mutual decision for Cherie Llorin, a footwear product developer, and her husband to separate two years ago. In fact, they have an amicable relationship and are partners in taking care for their son, Rockwell, who is now seven years old. “My son was pretty young when we split (four years old). At that age, he didn’t know that it was a major life-changing event that Daddy didn’t live with us anymore. I just calmly explained that we didn’t live together anymore and he was okay with it,” Llorin said. “He does understand that we were married at one time, but doesn’t really ask too much about it.” The biggest challenge for her, however, is asking for help from others. “When I am in ‘Mom Mode,’ I feel the tendency of needing to do everything. I don’t want to be a burden to others, so I try to be ‘Super Mom’ and do everything myself,” she explained and continued, “But there are days that I cannot do it all, and I’m starting to realize it. I am learning to ask family and friends for help, and actually accepting their help when they offer it to me.” Llorin also shared that single moms can spend 99.9 percent of their time taking care of their child/children, plus deal with other things in their life such as work, bills, etc. Because of this, single mothers forget that they have needs and have to take care of themselves. “I felt unhappy and didn’t realize the reasons why. Once I reintroduced things I was passionate about into my life (i.e. dance and yoga) I felt a renewed spirit inside me. Whatever time I could manage, I would fit them in. I felt like I was being a better mother because I was happy inside and my son could feel it,” she said. “I feel more inspiring to him, because he sees me pursuing my passions and he in turn wants to do those things. He has a positive outlook, where as before (when we were still living with his dad), he seemed like he could not do anything. It is still a work in progress with him, but I see so many changes in him. Happiness and love starts with me first be-

fore I can give that to my son.” Her advice to other single moms is to take their time. “You won’t have all the answers right away. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’ll figure it out one way or another. If you fail in your journey, acknowledge it and move on..” Jona Jane Tajonera, 47: “You can’t argue with stupid.” According to Jona Jane Tajonera, a businesswoman, one of the misconceptions about of people about single moms is that they are “failures, losers, immoral” — or all. This, she said, is what makes her upset. “Someone asked me if I go to communion when I go to church, so I said, ‘Yes!’ And this person said, ‘You’re not suppose to do that because you’re a single mom, you’re divorced, it’s a sin.’ I didn’t argue because in my mind, I can’t argue with stupid,” she said. “Most men think that I carry huge baggage until they get to know me. Then either they think they hit a jackpot or they get intimidated by my status.” For Tajonera, it was a bitter journey to single motherhood. Divorced for 12 years now, her marriage crumbled when her ex-husband cheated on her. She was able to get full custody of her two children — Joshua Bailey, 19 and Jason Bailey, 14 — but did allow their father to take them on weekends. “It turned out he was not even around during those times and the kids were left with their stepmother. So, they stopped going there,” she explained. “Since they were still young when we got divorced, they don’t have a good relationship with their father and they don’t ask or look for him even on Father’s Day. “ Because she did get full custody, it was a challenge to be both father and mother to her kids. Balancing work while taking her sons to their sports and extra curricular activities was tiring, so she decided to start her own business. “I decided to start my own business so I can have more time with my kid and have a more flexible time. During the day I make sure it’s all about my kids and at night I worked late to catch up. It was hard but I was able to manage it because I saw my kids happier, and I am happier,” she shared. “Now that they are both teenagers, they don’t demand much of my time anymore but we still do activities together (I feel like I became their older sister).” She also believes that although single motherhood is hard, nothing is more important than giving her kids her love and time. “Those two (love and time) are the things money can’t buy, and they need it badly. I gave up a high-paying salary and started my own business because I want to be there for my boys. It was hard in the beginning, I struggled and made almost nothing, but with hard work, perseverance and faith, nothing is impossible. “Lastly, for single mothers, do not worry about what others will say because it is your life. Your children’s happiness comes first and then yours,” she said. “I wake up everyday and say, ‘Today is another day to be awesome.’”

entertainment

The A to Zia of parenting from Marian & Dingdong by Ching

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 10, 2017

M. AlAno

Vic Sotto, Pauleen Luna ready for baby on the way

Philstar.com

Showbiz couple Marian (nee Rivera) and Dingdong Dantes candidly confess at a media launch that they now face their most challenging role yet as this does not come with a script: being first-time parents to baby Maria Letizia “zia” who turned one last Nov. 23. wearing a dainty powder blue dress adorned with flower patches similar to her daughter’s, Marian goes up the stage carrying the adorable baby zia who grabs the mic from her mom and greets everyone, “hi!” of course, there’s Daddy Dingdong, who looks like he forgot to shave and comb his hair, following closely behind. “Sobrang nag-aalala ako ’pag nilalagay ni Dingdong sa balikat nya si zia (i’m extremely worried when Dingdong puts zia on his shoulders),” Marian tells the young mommies at this lunch affair to launch the Dantes family as the endorsers of Johnson’s #Dadventures. “but i know he’ll take care of zia because he loves her so much.” herself an overprotective mom, Marian sends this message to all anxious moms, “Sa mga nanay na sobrang protective sa anak, puedengpuede na mag Dadventures (To all overprotective mommies, your child can now engage in Dadventures)!” Marian discloses, “Sa totoo lang, mas strict ako kaysa kay Dingdong at hindi ako pumapayag sa rough play noon. Pero ngayon. (Truth is, I’m stricter than Dingdong as a parent and I did not allow rough play before.)” Marian is talking about Johnson’s new line of baby bath and baby lotion products, Milk+Rice and Milk+ oats that harness the healing, balancing and calming powers of oats. Johnson’s Milk + Rice is fortified with 200-percent more skin vitamins while Johnson’s Milk + oats locks in moisture for up to 24 hours so skin feels strong and healthy after just one use. Marian adds, “Medyo oA ang mga mommies (when it comes to protecting their toddlers). Kaba ng mga ina. Kailangan i-balance lahat.” For his part, first-time dad Dingdong declares, “Fatherhood is incredible, it’s very challenging. it’s an ongoing process of learning the proper things to do. Mahirap pero masarap!” For newbie parents like Marian and Dingdong, their little baby’s sleep is one big concern. To compound the issue, there are just too many bedtime myths going around. Johnson’s experts give the facts behind the myths: Myth 1: “My baby is just a

The family in Japan during a vacation.

by Arlo

Custodio ManilaTimes.net

TV host-comedian Vic Sotto announced on Saturday that his wife and “Eat bulaga” co-host Pauleen Luna is pregnant. “Gusto ko pong i-announce sa Pilipinas at sa buong mundo na buntis ako, hindi po ako, ang aking asawa (I want to announce to the Philippines and the whole world that I’m preg-

nant, not me, my wife),” he said on the show the usual way he makes fun of everything. he asked for prayers for his wife’s successful pregnancy. Luna, on the other hand, announced on instagram, “@ pauleenlunasotto: Finally, a bun in the oven! Can’t be more proud and excited to be a mom! Thank you to my handsome for surprising me with

this announcement! Thank you Lord for being so gracious!” Sotto has children from previous relationships—Danica and oyo boy by Dina bonnevie, and each by Angela Luz and Coney Reyes. The couple were married last year with no less than Luna’s close friend Miss Universe 2015 Pia wurtzbach in attendance.

On raising daughter Maria Letizia, Marian Rivera considers herself an overprotective mom while Dingdong Dantes believes his a strict dad.

poor sleeper. There’s nothing I can do about it.” Fact: There’s no such thing as a “poor sleeper.” The trick is to help your baby get more familiar with bedtime. According to several sleep experts, one of the most effective ways is by establishing a bedtime routine. Johnson’s recently came out with the first scientificallyproven bedtime routine, which consists of three simple steps: bath, massage, and quiet time. when used with the official line of bedtime products — made with Natural Calm aromas and a No More Tears Mildness formula — it guarantees your baby an additional one hour of sleep, after just seven days. Myth 2: “Babies wake because they are breast fed.” Fact: Plenty of factors could affect a baby’s sudden waking in the night — it could be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental age, environment, or even previously introduced sleep habits. Avoid feeding and rocking your baby before putting him/ her to sleep because this may also enforce an unnecessary habit that he/she may carry with him/her when growing up. Myth 3: “If I get my baby tired enough, he’ll be able to sleep through the night.” Fact: babies actually benefit from sleep more than we think, so it’s important that we don’t deprive them of these by trying to desperately get them to sleep. According to Dr. Agnes Tirona-Remulla, ENT-head and neck specialist, who sub-spe-

cializes in sleep medicine and surgery, babies gain three things from sleep: physical, emotional, and cognitive development — stronger immune system, proper weight regulation, improved social skills and mother-child interaction, enhanced learning and memory. Myth 4: “Don’t give your baby a bath at night! He’ll catch a cold.” Fact: This is probably one of the most common bedtime myths Filipino moms hear. Contrary to what our elders say, giving our babies a bath in the evening is actually a good way of preparing them for sleep. The warm bath loosens up their muscles and helps them relax, signaling them that it’s almost time to go off to dream land. Myth 5: “I’ll wait until my baby is a toddler to help him sleep better.” Fact: it’s no easy task to teach your baby how to sleep, so why delay it when you can start early? As Dr. Remulla said, the best thing about establishing a bedtime routine is that it instills good sleeping habits, as well as a good sleep schedule. This, in turn, guarantees both you and your child a longer, more restful slumber in the long run. For more tips on how to sleep train your baby, visit www.johnsonsbaby.com. Certainly, while baby zia may be getting all the zzzs she needs, Marian and Dingdong are not sleeping on the job!

Pauleen Luna with husband Vic Sotto and her ‘baby bump’ (left). (Right photo) With Vic and the growing Sotto family on the exclusive Balesin Island where Vic celebrated his 63rd birthday on April 28. Photos from Pauleen’s Instagram

Christopher and Sandy’s daughter snags title on second attempt by izA iglesiAs ManilaTimes.net

MARiA Angelica “Mariel” de Leon is definitely on her way to making a name outside her famous parents’ showbiz fame after winning the binibining Pilipinas-international last April 30. The 23-year-old, 5’8” stunner is the daughter of veteran actors Christopher De Leon and Sandy Andolong, and is a second-timer in the country’s premiere beauty contest. her beauty undeniable, she also held her own at the allimportant question-and-answer portion when asked to name an activity perceived to be maleoriented, but which she can do just as well if not better than the opposite sex. She replied, “i think i can box better than males,” adding, “i believe i can do anything better than males because it isn’t about gender at all. it’s about your abilities, your strengths, your weaknesses and your confidence within yourself. And with that, you can achieve anything.” with the binibining Pilipinas-international title came a P500,000-contract from binibining Pilipinas Charities, inc. (bPCi), a P500,000 endorsement contract, and complete wardrobe sponsorship from bPCi among other prizes. De Leon also snagged special awards, namely Miss Cream Silk and best in Long Gown. The mestiza beauty first tried her luck in binibining Pilipinas in 2013, achieving a Top 15 finish under the guidance of talent management agency

Mariel De Leon being crowned by Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa as her successor during the Bibining Pilipinas coronation night last April 30.

Aces and Queens. in 2015, she signed up with Viva Entertainment as a member of singing group, The opera belles. According to her biography on the pageant’s website, de Leon finished high school at Southville international School, and took up a culinary course in New zealand where her eldest brother lives. Asked in previous interviews why she decided to join binibining Pilipinas again after four years, she replied, “it was this just this year when i realized that i should try [it]again. i was definitely inspired by Pia [wurtzbach] and i felt some-

Mariel De Leon was joined by her proud family after being crowned Miss Philippines-International 2017. In photo with Mariel are brother Gabriel, mother Sandy Andolong, father Christopher De Leon and sister Mica.

thing in my heart…like a spark that just went off.” Meanwhile, in an interview with AbS-CbN, which carried the delayed telecast of the pageant, de Leon’s famous father admitted he prayed hard for her daughter to win binibining Pilipinas-international. boyet, as he is fondly called in showbiz circles was quoted, “This is the most exciting time of my life. i am so proud of her. i’ve been dreaming of this. i’ve been wanting something really, really good for Mariel.” Meanwhile, her mom who was initially not very keen on the idea of de Leon joining the pageant again, joyfully exclaimed, “She’s a princess. She’s our princess. Now she’s a queen. This is very special. This has been her dream. Second time na nga and finally, she won. She really prepared for this. Talagang determined,” she said. Given her parents’ all-out support, the dutiful daughter took a moment during her victory to acknowledge them: “Thank you nanay, tatay for all the love and support that you’ve given me since birth. i love you so much and this one’s for you,” she said.

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 10, 2017

Pia Wurtzbach unfazed by issues IT seems like 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach has more time to pursue her advocacy nowadays. Just last week, ManilaTimes.net had the chance to chat with the famous beauty queen at the Ateneo de Manila University where she was launched as UNAids Goodwill

Ambassador for Asia. “I get to work with the United Nations now, how cool is that?” Pia enthused. A cause she chose as a candidate to the Miss Universe pageant, she is bent on raising awareness for HIV testing. In particular, she is pushing for the

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Philippine government to fund HIV testing at an earlier age. “Because right now I think the age for testing is 18. Come on, realistically we all start having sex much younger than that,” Pia unabashedly stated, making a roomful of people laugh. Realizing what she just said though, Pia blurted out, “Oh my gosh. I can’t believe I just said that! Magagalit ba kayo sa akin, totoo naman eh! Di ba? The law should mirror what is going on outside. Let’s not try to think we still live in nineteen-something, 2017 na po. I’m going to get bashed [over this statement]but I’m ready for that and for anything for the sake of UNAids.” While on the topic of bashing, Pia was pressed for her reaction regarding two recent controversies that dragged her name into the picture—the discovery that her boyfriend Marlon Stockinger is a father of twins, and her gaffe with Bruneibased businesswoman Kathelyn Dupaya. The ever-graceful beauty quickly responded, “There will be a lot of stones thrown at you but that’s how it is. I think I’ve gone through a lot already and I now know how to handle certain situations.” On a happier note, Pia told In The Know that her New York state of mind will be on hold for a little longer since she just accepted five new endorsements this side of the world. That means more time for the queen here at home! (ManilaTimes.net)

AS a way to better serve the growing Asian American community in the LA area, the 99 Ranch Market in San Gabriel has been renovated and reopened. The San Gabriel 99 Ranch Market hosted a grand reopening on Saturday, May 6, the first of its kind since the branch opened in 1991. 99 Ranch Market—one of the nation’s leading Asian American supermarkets—has always been the Asian community’s one-stop shop for grocery products and pastries. The newly reopened San Gabriel location captures the same home market feel, but with a modern, clean design that complements the fresh, efficient store organization. As a way to celebrate the grand re-opening, the store had fun activities for customers including a DJ Cooking Show, Tuna Show and a balloon artist for younger customers. The store also offered special promotions including: $1 off coupon on meat, produce or seafood with a $10 purchase on meat, produce and seafood Free gift to those who present a same-day receipt of $30 or more

MOONLIGHTING

A roast duck for $9.99 for spending $100 or more (restrictions apply) Free gift to those that “like” the store on WeChat, Facebook and/or Instagram. Despite large changes made to the store, San Gabriel 99 Ranch Market remains the area’s preeminent, Asian American grocery store, offering more than 20,000 high-quality products from domestic and foreign vendors at very competitive prices. Customers may also purchase delicious pastries from BF Bakery and a variety of Asian cuisine options at the Asian Gourmet Kitchen, located in the store. To celebrate the grand re-

LEON

MY first knowledge of the world and about life came to me through my senses. They were directed by my mother. She was the first one I saw, felt and depended on, on the day I was born Everything made me wail desperately — hunger, light and anger. The memory of my mother and her teachings were, after all, what I have made my way. I remember the day I guided her to her flight gate. She turned around, waved at us and smiled blithely. She cheered us with her mirth. She was the most beautiful woman, I have ever seen. It was the last time I saw my mother alive. I missed her until I ached. I missed her steadfast faith in a loving unseen God, her complete love for her family anchored on the dictum “Love one another.” Giving all, asking little and accepting less. There never was a woman like her. She was rich and a treasured gift from God, who taught us what real love means. It means sharing the hurts, hopes, joys and homecomings. When we grew older and went on our separate ways, she said love is about staying when it would be easier to leave, defending when others accuse, holding on when you’re tempted to let go — and most importantly, letting go when you desperately want to hold on. She was an accomplished gardener. Her orchids bloomed in the moonlight, her roses grew even in winter. But her five girls were her fertile field. In the soul of the human heart, she was perfect. In her children’s heart, she had tenderly planted the seed of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control.

(Advertising Supplement)

Songs my mother taught me

by MYLAH DE

opening, Asian Gourmet Kitchen is now featuring tasty promotion items like the Run Bing (steamed spring roll), Marinated Combo and Steamed Bun with pork and vegetables. BF Bakery is also offering a discount on its scrumptious Walnut Raisin Toast, Taro Cake Roll and Portuguese Egg Tart. 99 Ranch Market San Gabriel is located at 140 W Valley Blvd, San Gabriel, CA 91776 and is open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, customers may contact 99 Ranch Market’s Customer Service Hotline at 1-800-600-TAWA or visit the company website www.99ranch.com.

The author with her youngest granddaughter Noelle de Leon.

She courageously protected that precious field from destruction and uninvited strangers. When spiritual or physical tribulations threatened her brood, she worked with a bleeding hand to protect the roots of life from violent storms, as she struggled through seasons of growth, celebrated unharmed growth as she weeded, watered, plowed and prayed. When our hearts got broken or when our dreams fell apart, she would remind us that God holds the key to real happiness — that He is the rebuilder of dashed hopes and shattered dreams. Her cheerful heart and encouragement was a transfusion of courage. Her weekend mornings were meant for special things and anybody who messes with the divine plan placed her health and eternal happiness in great danger. Yet, when the grand and great grandchildren came, she found joy in Saturday and Sunday mornings, filled with scampering feet, raucous laughter and squeals of “Apong!” She relished her home, straightened just yesterday and

now strewn with toys and coloring books. She was always a tender nurse beside the bed of a sick child; a diplomatic disciplinarian, a mighty warrior against the force of evil which threatened her domain. She taught us that laughter would lengthen your life span, improve your marriage and increase your humility. She would have liked her funeral. It had decorum and dash — grief borne nobly, as were her very ways. It was full of children, laborers, lawyers and judges. It had a marvelous eyeful jumble of the mighty and the obscure, with the sounds of the day smashingly appropriate. The tolling of the bells and her loved ones silent lament blended with elegiac Schubert, Tosseli, Romberg, Mendelssohn, Debussy and the lugubrious songs of lost love by Nicanor Abelardo and Buencamino. She would have seen every person she had helped — the simple folks of labor, their employees, her grieving friends. Each one bore tales and evoked her so vividly that tears splashed on the red carpet and benches of the parlor. They all wept, but nobody broke down. I believe that God has a special place for her and that she and her friends are happy and singing “I Love Thee,” Schubert’s “Ave Maria,” “When I Grow Too Old To Dream,” and “Ay, Ay Kalisud.” “Come on,” she would coax me. “You sing alto, it goes like this, and I’ll sing soprano.” She was a coloratura soprano. I’d rush to her with joy because I know how happy it will make her, as I accompanied her on the piano. She would sing a capella, “Trees,” “Indian Love Call,” “Nasaan ka Irog” and “La Golondrina;” “None But the Lonely Hearts” and “On Wings of Song.” They were the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard. Today, she would have been 87. Happy birthday, Mumsy! ***

E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@aol.com

The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 10, 2017

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The Asian Jour nal MDWK MAGAZINE - May 10, 2017