LA Weekend Edition -- August 01 -- 04, 2015

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LOS ANGELES

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EDITION

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August 1-4, 2015

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Volume 25 - No. 59 • 4 Sections – 38 Pages

Also published in: • Orange County/Inland Empire • Northern California • Las Vegas • New York/ New Jersey

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by ALLYSON

ESCOBAR

AJPress

A 15-year-old male has been charged in the murder of an 8-year-old girl in Santa Cruz, California. The Asian Journal learned the teen, Adrian Jerry Gonzalez, Jljg\Zk 8[i`Xe >feqXc\j nXj Xii\jk\[ ]fi is Filipino.

Gonzalez faces one count of murder b`[eXgg`e^# iXg\ Xe[ dli[\i%

DATELINE

with the special circumstance that he allegedly kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and tied up Madyson “Maddy” Middleton before killing her, according to Santa Cruz County District Attorney Jeffrey Rosell. Gonzalez is also accused of lying in wait.

The teen has also been charged with one count of kidnapping and four other

sexual assault-related offenses, according to Rosell. If convicted of the charges, Gonzalez may face life in prison. Because of his age, he is not eligible for the death penalty.

“We have charged this individual as an adult with the crimes for which he is responsible,” he said. “We are going to bring him to justice.”

At his first court appearance on Thursday, July 30, the 15-year-old did not enter a plea. His arraignment was postponed until Sept. 21, most likely to give the defense more time to build a case, said Santa Cruz District Attorney spokesman Paul Mangasarian.

Gonzalez’s lawyer Larry Biggam told

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USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

FBI joins hunt for Fil-Am murder suspect

OLONGAPO CITY – The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has joined the hunt for the Filipino-American tagged as the primary suspect in the killing of a 23-year-old woman here last week.

Mayor Rolen Paulino said the warrant of arrest issued by a Zambales court for Jonathan Dewayne Ciocon Viane, 29, for the murder of Karie Ces “Aika” Mojica was transmitted to the FBI attaché at the United States Embassy in Manila.

Viane, however, would not be brought back to the Philippines, if arrested, Paulino said.

“He will be jailed in the US. [The Philippines cannot apply for extradition] because he is a US citizen,” Paulino told the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Thursday, July 30.

Viane, and a second suspect, Niño de la

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Binay: Roxas’ endorsement will highlight our difference

CITY OF IMUS, Cavite – Vice President Jejomar Binay said the official proclamation of Interior Secretary Mar Roxas as the standard bearer of the administration’s Liberal Party will only “highlight” their difference in terms of experience, governance, and public service.

The LP proclamation also put an end to the party’s “pahele-hele” (playing coy) and drama about Roxas’ candidacy, Binay told reporters here.

Binay was in this city on Friday, July 31 while President Aquino made the announcement of Roxas’ official endorsement at the historic Club Filipino.

From here, Binay is scheduled to visit Dasmariñas City and later the town of Silang to meet with village officials to discuss “barangay anti-disaster programs.”

(Inquirer.net)

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Mar: I accept the challenge

by AUREA

CALICA Philstar.com

and Benigno Aquino Jr. At the same venue Friday, July 31, President Aquino finally announced that he preferred Roxas to succeed him in 2016.

An emotional Roxas accepted Aquino’s endorsement, saying, “Our fight is still on. I am Mar Roxas, I accept the challenge

posed by our bosses: to continue, widen and fight for the straight path.”

“In all humility I thank you (Aquino) and our bosses. I will never ever go astray from the straight path,” Roxas vowed. “I will give my all; I will not leave

Nevada’s lieutenant governor: A supporter of education, a better economy and Filipinos Pinay who preserves Mindanao artistic heritage among 2015 Ramon Magsaysay awardees

IT’S been a busy past couple of months for Nevada’s 34th lieutenant governor.

Since he was sworn in on Jan. 5, Las Vegas native and Republican Mark Hutchison has presided over the consideration of bills as president of the state Senate, enE\mX[X c`\lk\eXek ^fm\iefi DXib gaged in debates,

SALAZAR Philstar.com

MANILA – In the midst of violence and unrest in Mindanao, who would have thought dance could bring together people raised with cultural and religious differences?

Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa did.

And for her dedication to the arts, she is being honored as one of this year’s recipients of the Ramon Magsaysay Awards.

In a statement released Friday, July

PH lagging in assets for territorial defense – Japan

by ALEXIS

ROMERO Philstar.com

MANILA – The Philippines’ limited territorial defense capabilities were evident in a recently released Japanese defense ministry document detailing the military assets of claimants in the South China Sea. The document dated July 28 noted that there is “a vast gap both in the quality and quantity of navy and air force capabilities” between China and the main coastal states in South China Sea, namely the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia.

According to the document, the Philippines has 80 warships but no submarines.

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by CHERRY

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MANILA – Nearly six years ago, Manuel Roxas II announced at Club Filipino that he was forgoing his dream of becoming president and giving way to the only son of Corazon

A Philippine Navy source, however, said the figure includes vessels that are undergoing repairs and maintenance work.

“Any Navy ship can be considered a warship,” the Navy official told The Star.

The document noted that the Philippines has two-Hamilton class frigates, Cannon-class vessel and two Corvette ships.

The frigates – BRP Gregorio del Pilar and BRP Ramon Alcaraz – were acquired recently from the United States Coast Guard.

The Cannon-class ship is the destroyer BRP Rajah Jumabon which was acquired from Japan in 1977.

The Japanese ministry docu-

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31, the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF) said Amilbangsa was selected for “her single-minded crusade in preserving the endangered

artistic heritage of southern Philippines, and in creatively propagating a dance form that celebrates and defends the sense of shared cultural

identity among Asians.”

Amilbangsa, 71, has done extensive research on the dance, music and art

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A AUGUST 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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

From the Front Page

Fil-Am teen charged with murder in…

PAGE A1 t reporters on Thursday, “Our job is to review the evidence, conduct our own investigation, and make sure that the minor—like every citizen accused—receives a fair trial.”

Maddy was last seen around 5:05pm on Sunday, July 26 riding her white Razor scooter in

the Tannery Arts Center on River Street, a public-private nonprofit artists colony in Santa Cruz where both she and Gonzalez lived. Her disappearance prompted a frantic overnight search, and FBI investigators went door-to-door looking for clues. The massive search involved volunteers from neighbors, to officials, to rela-

tives and friends.

Around 250 people live in the Tannery Arts Center complex, including about 50 children.

At 7:55pm on Monday, July 27, a little more than 24 hours after she disappeared, a police detective discovered Maddy’s body—4 feet tall, 46 pounds—lying at the bottom of the recycling bin, which had already been searched once by volunteers.

Investigators reportedly saw Gonzalez standing near the bin, causing automatic suspicion.

Police believe he was watching them as they searched, and said they have evidence tying him directly to Maddy.

The boy was detained and later arrested on suspicion of homicide, and is being held in a juvenile detention facility.

Residents at the eight-acre complex were “stunned” to learn their neighbor was suspected in the killing.

“We’re just devastated. These

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RESCUE DRILL. Rescue volunteers rappel on a building to rescue people acting as victims during the Metrowide Shake Drill on Thursday, July 30.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

Mar: I…

PAGE A1 t

anything for myself. I will leave everything on the floor for this fight.”

Roxas said the fight was not about him and Aquino but daang matuwid or the straight path and the dreams of the Filipino people.

“As the President said, it is worth fighting for. It is worth sacrificing for – and dying for if need be. The straight path transcends me and P-Noy; it is a Filipino ideal that has been there long before we were born, and will remain long after we are gone. We are being challenged by history to live up to this principle, to continue our journey, to fight for our dreams as a race,” Roxas said.

“I owe the Filipino as much; and I owe as much to you, Mr. President. I have never met a President who sacrificed so much for the country. I have never met a President who has been able to inspire so much confidence.

You led by example of what we believe in; you showed what we could achieve with the use of political will, principles and holding on to what is right, no matter

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From the Front Page

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

Mar: I accept the…

PAGE A4 t

STUDENT WOES. Teachers comfort a crying student at the President Corazon C. Aquino Elementary School in Batasan, Quezon City as he goes to school for the first time. Over 1.1 million Filipino students are enrolled in 5,954 public schools that have no access to electricity, according to the Department of Education (DepEd).

Philstar.com photo by Boy Santos

FBI joins…

PAGE A1 t Cruz, were charged with the killing in Zambales RTC Branch 71 in Iba on July 28.

Mojica’s body was found on a dike in San Felipe, Zambales, on July 25. Police described the remains as “partly burned” with the hands tied with a black plastic strap.

Forensic investigators recovered three spent 9-mm pistol shells on the dike.

Paulino said the local government was coordinating with the Department of Justice and the US Embassy to expedite the arrest of Viane, a resident of Anchorage, Alaska.

Viane flew to the US on Sunday, said Paulino.

Mojica was laid to rest here on Thursday afternoon. Her sister, Erika, became emotional during the memorial service.“We don’t know how to move on from this.

When they killed my sister, it felt like they killed all of us in our family,” Erika said.

Josar Mojica, the victim’s father, pleaded for the immediate

Jonathan Dwayne Ciocon Vianne

arrest of Viane and De la Cruz.

He said his daughter might been dragged into Viane’s marital problems, noting that Aika and Viane’s US-based wife were friends.

Viane left his wife in the US, bringing their son to the Philippines in April amid a custody issue, the elder Mojica said.

“My daughter had given the suspect’s wife information on his whereabouts here. I think that’s the real motive behind this,” he said. (Allan Macatuno/ Inquirer.net)

we have to work for. We have to fight for,” Aquino said.

“To my bosses, I tell you today: in my opinion, the one who has shown exemplary work and true integrity, the one fully ready to continue the straight path, is none other than Mar Roxas,” he said.

In his remaining time in office, Aquino said his two major obligations were to ensure clean and peaceful elections and choose a good successor.

“I have said this before: Some people were advising me to extend my time in office to make certain that all that we have achieved will not go to waste.

During the SONA, I explained why I disagreed with them: I do not wish to open the possibility for an individual to stay in power their whole life, whilst only looking out for their own selfish interests. This is no theory; it is already part of our history,” the President said.

“There are also some who advised me not to endorse a candidate, and remain a friend to all.

That seems like the wrong thing to do,” he said.

With the difficulties of the job as pointed out by one supporter in a text message, Aquino said he did feel it was his responsibility to choose a successor so their efforts would not be wasted, even as his vote would only be one among many other Filipinos.

Aquino cited the track record of Roxas as the one who brought the business process outsourcing industry to new heights.

The industry flourished in the Philippines, from having 2,400 employees in 2000 to an P18.9billion industry, employing over one million people in 2014.

“What most of you don’t know: Cubao was one of the last places to join in the growth of the industry, because Mar forbade his family to apply in the ecozones.

Let me emphasize: His own family, who have long been businessmen, he convinced not to take part in an initiative he began as a government official. Here, and in many other instances, the integrity of Mar Roxas is clear,” Aquino said.

Roxas served as congressman, trade and industry secretary under the Estrada and Arroyo administrations, senator and then secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications and Department of the Interior and Local Government.

“In my experience, I know that, whatever orders are given Mar, he will not leave until the situation is stable. Whether in Zamboanga, Bohol or Leyte, even when communication has been cut off because of (Typhoon) Yolanda, I know that everything is in good hands and that he does not need to wait for orders, just to ensure that all needs are met,” Aquino said.

“Let me remind everyone: he did not go to these places on vacation. He was there at a time of crisis; he needed to ensure that all those in the evacuation centers would be able to eat, and that all other immediate needs were met. When we went to

A

Zamboanga, for example, even soap had to be rationed because, should we happen to run out, all the stores were closed. We ended up creating a cottage industry of laundry persons, because there were some of us who thought that we would only be there overnight and consequently failed to bring enough clothes,” he added.

What was puzzling to them, Aquino said, was that in spite of everything that Roxas had done and his sacrifices, “it’s as if there’s an entire industry dedicated to bringing him down.”

In Leyte, Aquino said all that Roxas wanted was to follow the rules but the people that he was talking to, all of whom just wanted to engage in politics, even edited a video just to ruin his name.

Another example was when Roxas chose to ride a motorcycle because roads were not traversible by cars to reach areas in need of assistance, he was even criticized when he slipped.

“And I wonder: is this part of the job description of a good leader – that, even when you exert all effort to do good, those in opposition will only see the bad? What so many don’t know is that at night, when the media’s asleep, Mar himself is the one at the wheel, driving around communities to check on whatever else needed to be done,” he said.

Aquino said they were not comfortable with boasting of their achievements and this perhaps could be the reason why so many people failed to see everything Roxas had done or to recognize his true character.

“That is the fate of those fo-

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A AUGUST 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USA

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

Nevada’s lieutenant governor: A supporter…

PAGE A1 t

been involved in developing bills, reached out to constituents and connected with business owners.

But his activity hasn’t stopped there.

He has also attended to responsibilities as a member of Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval’s cabinet, chairman of the Commission on Tourism, a member of the Board of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, vice chairman of the State Board of Transportation and a member of the Executive Branch Audit Committee.

Despite his busy schedule, public service and a multitude of responsibilities aren’t new to Hutchison. Prior to running for his current role, he served on the Nevada Commission on Ethics for six years (two of which he chaired) and represented District 6 when he was elected to the Nevada State Senate in 2012.

He is also a small business owner, a senior partner at Hutchison & Steffen, among the largest lawfirms in Nevada.

With his resume of experiences and an understanding of various facets that contribute to the Silver State, Hutchison said he felt qualified to run for the position he holds today.

On Nov. 4, 2014, he was elected to become Nevada’s lieutenant governor.

Legislative accomplishments In the past six months that Hutchison has held his current role, he has contributed to the creation of a number of bills.

Among these are two he is particularly proud of: Assembly Bill 161, which provides tax abatements for the aviation industry, and Senate Bill 92, which requires underperforming teachers to be the first to go when schools need to implement layoffs.

While AB 161 was sponsored and led by Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Hutchison said he had crafted a bill similar to the one that passed and that he was fully supportive of it.

Before the measure was approved, Nevada was not competitive when it came to tax abatements for the aviation industry in multiple areas, including manufacturing, maintenance and upgrades. As a result, businesses were taking their aircrafts to other states, such as Arizona, California and Washington.

After the bill was passed, the tide changed for the state in this area.

“It was very rewarding for me to see at our last board of economic development ... several aviation companies coming into Nevada for expanding their business in the state based on the passage [of AB 161],” Hutchison told the Asian Journal.

On a related note, the lieutenant governor said he wants to continue focusing on economic development and job creation in the state, particularly in the aviation and unmanned vehicle industries.

“There’s such promising growth opportunities here in Nevada. Those jobs are good-pay-

ing, stable jobs that our citizens could really take advantage of,” he said.

Nevada is one of six sites designated by the Federal Aviation Administration for testing of unmanned vehicles.

“We have tremendous assets in terms of controlled airspace where these vehicles can be controlled and tested ... we have lots of great airports that really lend themselves to the aviation industry and UAV industry in particular,” he said.

Nevada’s last legislative session, which adjourned on June 1, focused on education, Hutchison said. With that, many education reform bills were passed, including Hutchison’s Senate Bill 92.

It recognized that in Nevada, as in many other states, minority children have been disproportionally educated by underperforming teachers, the lieutenant governor said.

“That’s just not right from a constitutional standpoint. Every student has an equal opportunity to a quality education. It’s not right from a world standpoint in my view and I was going to do something about that,” he said.

SB 92, which went into effect on July 1, requires that layoffs be based on teacher performance rather than seniority. Lower performing teachers are placed back into probation and are provided resources and opportunities for professional development and training. Furthermore, it does not allow these teachers to go back to teaching in schools unless principals agree they are ready to do so.

Having attended Rose Warren Elementary School, Garside Junior High, Bonanza High School and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas – all public schools – education is a topic that hits home for Hutchison.

“I’m truly the product of [the] Nevada education system. It’s been a wonderful asset for me to have and I want to continue to do that for students in the future,” he said.

In addition, all his six children have attended public schools in the state.

A day in Hutchison’s professional shoes When Nevada’s legislature is in session, the lieutenant governor lives in Carson during the week and returns home on most weekends. “[I] eat, and drink and breathe the legislative session as the state’s Senate president. So that’s been a very exciting opportunity for me. I’m very excited to be part of this legislative session, which by all accounts, anybody who follows the legislature closely, [it’s] a historic session, so I was very involved in the legislative session from February through the first part of June,” he said.

Typically once per day, he presides over the Senate when it is considering bills, and engages in debates.

He also has the opportunity to meet with individuals regarding pending legislation and hear their views on various measures.

Among these include his colleagues – both Republicans and

Democrats – with whom he says he has good friendships.

From time to time, Hutchison also participates in commission board meetings.

In the four months of the legislative sessions, these activities occupy his time.

The position of lieutenant governor is considered part-time, and Hutchison remains active outside of the legislature by continuing to practice as a constitutional lawyer.

“Every day I’ve got to prioritize in terms of my responsibilities with my lieutenant governor office. I’ve got responsibilities with my clients and I’ve got to keep a very good calender and record all the events. But I never let my professional obligations interfere at all with my lieutenant governor duties,” he said.

Hutchison also takes time to meet with his constituents to keep them updated on what’s happening within Nevada’s government and with entrepreneurs to discuss business developments, and asks them what the government can do to better serve them. Furthermore, he has given speeches at a number of educational organizations.

On top of his professional obligations, Hutchison is a husband, father and grandfather. When time permits, he helps coach the football team at Palo Verde High School, where his youngest child is a member. He and his family are also active in their church.

How does he do it all?

“The No. 1 reason I’m able to do it is because I’ve got a great family and the greatest most beautiful wife on planet earth who supports me and who is so kind and understanding of someone who’s got a very busy life like I do,” he said. “And she is the absolute bedrock of our family and without her I couldn’t do any of this.”

In addition, Hutchison credits his colleagues in the legal professional for being understanding of his multiple responsibilities.

Significance of Filipino Nevadans In the Silver State, Hutchison notes that the Filipino community is one of the largest segments of the Asian Pacific American community. “[It’s] a growing, robust, dynamic, exciting community,” he said.

Hutchison has mingled with the Filipino community at various Asian Pacific American community events – such as those held by the Asian American Chamber of Commerce and an Asian Pacific American heritage month event – both while he campaigned and since he assumed office.

“I’ve spent time in different events, different celebrations, and what I think are just invaluable contributions to the state of Nevada are the Filipino community’s involvement in tourism. Tourism is the lifeblood of Nevada and the Filipino community is such an important part of that industry and has done a great job taking care of our visitors and making sure they have a tremendous experience when they come to Las Vegas or Reno

OUTSTANDING STUDENTS. The 2015 national awardees of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) attended the awarding ceremony on Thursday, July 30 in Malacañang Palace. The awards are presented by TOSP founder businessman Jose Concepcion Jr., his son Joey Concepcion III, Commission on Higher Education secretary Patricia Licuanan and Cabinet Secretary Jose Almendras. TOSP is an awards program seeking young role models who have personified academic excellence, exemplary leadership and deep sense of social responsibility, all anchored on good moral values.

Malacañang photo by Joseph Vidal

or anywhere else in the [state],” he said.

Filipinos, he added, are “inspiring” because they do well as entrepreneurs, which contributes to job creation.

“They are some of the greatest businessmen and businesswomen in the state of Nevada.

They provide job opportunities to support their families, to put bread on the table, to send their children to school and colleges,” Hutchison said.

The lieutenant governor said he specifically ensures that he and his staff reach out to the Filipino Nevadans.

“I want to know ... what is it that I can do as Lt. Gov in my role as chairman of the Commission of Tourism, [a member of the] Board of Economic Development, within the state senate, what laws can we pass that will really support the Filipino community [and] what they’re trying to do in all those areas?”

With the growth and contributions of Filipinos in Nevada, Hutchison said he wants to continue attending events important to the community.

“Every one of them is my constituent and I’m committed to making sure their voice is heard and that we promote their interests as much as we possibly can,” he said.

Looking ahead With the conclusion of Nevada’s 78th legislative session, Hutchison has been focusing his efforts on other areas where the state can flourish.

One of these is in promoting new economies, such as electric cars – specifically Tesla – and the data storage industry. Switch, a data storage company, announced in January that it would invest $1 billion to expand its business in Northern Nevada.

As chair of the Commission on Tourism, Hutchison is also investing time into Nevada’s lifeblood industry. The commission, for instance, recently announced $1.1 million in grants for rural communities throughout the state to promote tourism in those areas.

Aspects of rural tourism that are

Mar: I accept the…

PAGE A5 t

cused on true change, instead of on photo-ops and on putting their names and faces on novelty items. For my part: the triumphs of one person do not vanish into thin air, just because he does not broadcast them. And in choosing, I, like you, do not consider those who are clearly credit mongers, and those who have clearly strayed from the straight path,” Aquino said.

Aquino said during his first campaign, whenever he went around Tarlac, there were so many areas that seemed to make no progress since the 1960s, during the time when his father was governor.

“I asked, where is growth?

Why are things like this? This is likely the result of what we call traditional politics: the work of politicians who seem to want to keep our countrymen in dire need, so that they will be approached for everything – from food and medicine, up to weddings, baptisms or wakes. These, in turn, are the debts of gratitude they rely on during election season, so that they can perpetuate the poverty of the many, and the growing wealth of the few,” Aquino said.

“That is why, in the coming elections, the question is: who should we support? Those who will continue along the straight path and fully break the system of patronage, or those who are always looking for a way to bring us back to the cycle of corruption and poverty?” he asked.

Aquino called on voters to examine what candidates had done; “the longer their experience, the better, because it is in their experience that we will see evidence of their being true and excellent partners along the straight path.”

Support Local officials have expressed their support for Roxas.

“There is no doubt about Secretary Roxas’ integrity, character, u PAGE A8 qualifications and commitment to continue the daang matuwid governance, which had already resulted to higher growth rate and faster economic progress.

Because of the daang matuwid, we also earned the confidence of foreign and local investors and respected financial institutions all over the world,” Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. said.

Officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are supporting President Aquino’s endorsement of Roxas as his preferred successor.

“We are supporting P-Noy’s choice of Secretary Mar,” ARRM Gov. Mujiv Hataman said.

“We owe the numerous development and poverty alleviation projects in our region to President Aquino. He has extended to the region the financial support it needs,” he added.

Rep. Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar said Aquino’s endorsement “is expected to propel the

candidacy of Roxas to greater heights as it will define the battle lines between continuity and uncertainty.”

“The President’s decision to anoint him clearly shows that Secretary Roxas is highly qualified because of his integrity and selflessness,” he said.

Former senator Panfilo Lacson said President Aquino made a good choice in Roxas for the presidential elections in 2016.

Lacson said Roxas is qualified to be president of the country.

“If we go by his credentials like his educational attainment and extensive experience in the executive and legislative branches of government,” he added.

Lacson also pointed out Roxas has not really experienced being on the saddle by himself, making his own decisions without seeking guidance from superiors.

“I can only hope and pray that his good attributes can be translated into positive action if and when he becomes the next leader, if only for the sake of our beloved country,” the former senator said.

Former Albay congressman Edcel Lagman also supported Aquino’s choice of Roxas.

“I was with Mar in the 9th and 10th Congresses. I find him hardworking, competent, honest and earnest. His vast experience as a legislator, both as representative and senator, and as an executive in the Cabinet of two administrations, has extensively prepared him for the presidency,” Lagman said.

“He has an enviable political pedigree. I am certain the voters will truly appreciate these sterling qualities, and will give him the mandate. Mar’s anointment by the President will help catapult him in the ratings. An outgoing President’s residual political power and influence cannot be underestimated,” he said.

Apparently alluding to Sen. Grace Poe, daughter of the late actor Fernando Poe Jr., Lagman said sheer popularity should never be a qualification for public office.

“The ‘box office’ should neither be equated with nor supplant the polling precinct. Perceived ‘electability’ is a poor substitute for qualification and experience,” he added.

“The problems of the country cannot be solved by one who may be buoyed only by a popularity bubble. Our country needs a steward equal to the requisite standards and compelling demands of the highest public office,” Lagman stressed.

With its overseer Roxas set to run in the presidential elections next year, the Philippine National Police will remain apolitical, non-partisan and professional, national police spokesman Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor said.

“We will remain focused on our mission to enforce the law and maintain peace and order,” Mayor said. (With reports from Jess Diaz, Danny Dangcalan, Cecille Suerte Felipe)

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Dateline USA

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

A

Mental health experts respond to mass killings with concern and sensitivity Over 9 million US adults experience serious mental illness in a broken health system

by Allyson

Escobar

AJPress

SENATE VISIT. Senator Vicente C. Sotto III and Atty. Levito Baligod meet Aetas tribe leaders from the province of Zambales. The indigenous people went to the Senate to visit the institution. Atty. Baligod has been helping the Aetas as part of his advocacy to extend assistance to the unprivileged people.

Senate photo by Ramon Lopez

Congress passes short-term highway bill

by Allyson

Escobar

AJPress

BOTH houses of Congress have deliberately been moving toward passage of a three-month patch to keep federal highway and transit aid flowing to US states, while lawmakers seek the right policies and achievable revenue for a long-term transportation deal.

Congress sent President Barack Obama the three-month bill plan on Thursday, July 30, a day before the deadline for the cutoff of funds, when authority for the Department of Transportation to process aid payments to states was set to expire.

The House passed the shortterm, $8-billion bill before leaving Washington for Congress’ August recess. Earlier on Thursday, the Senate also made a move, passing a sweeping longterm transportation bill, setting up discussions with the House this fall on what the future course of transportation policy should be and how to pay for programs.

The Senate approved the bill by vote of 91 to 4.

Lawmakers said they were wary to take up yet another short-term transportation funding extension, the 34th extension since 2009. But Republicans and Democrats don’t want to see transportation aid cut off, and are eager to pass an amendment attached to the extension bill that fills a $3.4 billion hole in the Department of Veterans Affairs’ budget. The money gap also threatens to force the closure of hospitals and clinics nationwide.

The legislators hope the threemonth patch will be Congress’

last.

The three-month patch puts off House action on a long-term transportation bill, adding one more battle to this fall’s crammed legislation agenda. Twelve annual spending bills face a fastapproaching deadline in September, but are being held up by the national debate over the Confederate flag. Congress must also decide whether to approve or disapprove President Obama’s Iran deal, and whether to pass a contentious defense policy bill facing a veto threat from the White House. Another fight is certain over raising the nation’s borrowing authority.

The $350 billion, long-term Senate bill cleared a procedural hurdle on Wednesday, July 29, by a vote of 65 to 35.

The bill would make major changes to highway, transit, railroad and auto safety programs, but only provides enough funds for the first three years of enactment. It provides $8 billion to shore up the federal Highway Trust Fund through mid-December.

The bill also renews the Export-Import Bank, which makes low-interest loans to help US companies sell their products overseas. The bank’s charter expired on June 30, in the face of opposition from conservatives calling it corporate welfare.

Though the funds are limited, the propoal was enough to win the support of many state and local officials, transportation related industries, and labor unions who have been imploring Congress for years to pass to bill that will provide states the certainty that they can count on federal aid as they

plan major construction projects.

“The House needs to make its voice heard and put forth its own priorities for such a significant piece of legislation,” said Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, before the vote was made Thursday.

The bill’s passage is “a win for our country,” said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (RKy). “Many thought we’d never get here, but we have.”

It has been a decade since Congress last passed a long-term transportation bill, although lawmakers in both parties generally support highway and transit aid.

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LONG before the July 23 shooting at a movie theater in Lafayette, La., which killed two young women and the mentallyill shooter, psychological health remains an important and relevant topic in the US. One psychiatry professor calls it “the conversation we’re stuck with,” a teachable moment that grew out of horror.

When mental illness is cited as a possible factor in a high-profile mass killing, there’s a collective sigh among mental health professionals, the Associated Press reported. Even as they see an opportunity for serious national discussions of ongoing problems and possible remedies, they also worry about setbacks to their efforts to destigmatize mental illness.

“Most people who suffer from mental illness are not violent, and most violent acts are committed by people who are not mentally ill,” said Dr. Renee Binder, president of the American Psychiatric Association.

“If, hypothetically, everyone with mental illness were locked up, you might think you were safe, but you are not,” Binder

said.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health’s latest estimate from 2012, there were an estimated 9.6 million adults in the US—4.1 percent of the total adult population—experiencing serious mental illness over the previous year.

“If you look at that large pool of people, only a tiny proportion of them will eventually commit violence,” Binder said. “How are you going to identify them? It’s like a needle in a haystack.”

Still, public perceptions can be hard to shake. Of the high-profile mass shootings in the past 10 years that are most “ingrained in America’s psyche,” officials say the mental health problems of the perpetrator became a central part of the narrative in several cases: most notably the rampages at Virginia Tech in 2007, at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, at an Aurora, Colorado, movie theater in 2012, and near the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 2014.

Earlier in July, a grand jury convicted James Holmes of the 12 murders in Colorado, after he shot up a movie theater in 2013 and the months-long, emotional trial that followed, delving deeply

into his mental problems.

In two recent rampages, the perpetrators also have been described as mentally troubled.

After the killing of four Marines and a Navy sailor in Chattanooga, the family of slain assailant Muhammad Abdulazeez said he had been in and out of treatment for depression, starting as an adolescent.

John Russell Houser, 59, who was responsible for the shooting deaths and injuries at the Lafayette, Louisiana movie theater on July 23, also had a history of mental health illness and domestic violence. Houser had been involuntarily hospitalized to receive psychiatric care, and was denied a concealed weapons permit in 2006 because of a previous arrest connected to an arson plot.

“If [Houser] is adjudicated as a danger to himself or others, or not able to handle his affairs due to his mental capacity, he is also barred from having a firearm,” said Him Cavanaugh, a security analyst and former Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agent.

“He should have never been able to buy that gun,” said Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal on July 26. “That should have never

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A AUGUST 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USA

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50 members of BAYAN USA Southern California, Anakbayan Los Angeles, Anakbayan Long Beach, Anakbayan Inland Empire, Anakbayan San Diego,Habi Arts, Migrante Los Angeles, National Ecumenical Forum for Filipino Concerns, Gabriela Los Angeles, and National Alliance for Filipino Concerns protest President Aquino’s final State of the Nation Address Photo courtesy of Chando Kem

Filipino Americans in Los Angeles protest Aquino’s last SONA World Journal- Statement of Apology Regarding a Report about H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, posted in Page B5, Southern California/Eastern United States News, Monday, July 6, 2015

Statement of Apology Regarding a Report about H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III On April 21 of this year, a news report about H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was published on the “Southern California News” page of the San Francisco edition of World Journal. The article was translated from a local English news medium in southern California. Because of the time pressure of publishing the article and careless mistakes made in proofreading and checking the article, our newspaper was unable to investigate and verify the contents mentioned in the article before it was published. We hereby express our sincere apology to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, who is broadly revered by believers and who was commended by a resolution passed by the United States Congress.

Our newspaper has always upheld the principle of “Publishing a Newspaper in an Upright Manner.” We believe in justice, freedom, and other basic values of a civilized world.

Besides defending freedom of speech and people’s right to know, we respect freedom of religious belief and all normal religious activity. Our newspaper has always done its utmost to report and condemn incidents of religious persecution

occurring in various places around the world, especially acts of political intervention and suppression that violate freedom of faith in regions inhabited by Chinese people.

Based on our mission of serving our readers, our newspaper does all that it can to timely report and publish activities and information associated with various Chinese religious organizations in the San Francisco Bay area. We do so to meet the needs of all types of believers and form bonds of kindness. The editorial and reporting teams of our newspaper strictly abide by the moral code and duties of journalists. Regarding the above-mentioned careless mistakes in our work, we have completed a serious review and implemented a more rigorous editorial and checking process to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

We sincerely thank the International Buddhism Sangha Association for pointing out and correcting our mistakes.

According to material provided by the International Buddhism Sangha Association, believers, and readers, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is “the highest leader of Bud-

dhism, who has been unanimously recognized and corroborated as such by dharma kings, regent dharma kings, and rinpoches of various sects of Buddhism.” Although He has undergone persecution and attacks, He has over a long period of time served a vast number of Buddhists and is held in great esteem by them. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has received many awards, including the World Peace Prize, the United States Presidential Gold Award, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Award for International Service and Leadership, and many others. The United States Senate passed a resolution that affirmed and commended the service rendered by and contributions made by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III. To help readers know more about H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, we are publishing below the complete translation of Resolution No. 614 passed by the United States Senate in 2012: (Please refer to: https://www.congress. gov/bill/112th-congress/senate-resolution/614 for the original text of Resolution No. 614 passed by the US Senate)

US Senate Resolution 614 Celebrating the World Peace Corps Mission and the World Peace Prize.

DECEMBER 12, 2012 Whereas the World Peace Corps Mission is an international organization that operates according to the core spirit of advancing peace, justice, and inter-religious collaborations; Whereas the World Peace Prize is a prestigious award presented by the World Peace Corps Mission that celebrates individuals who have contributed tremendously to peace and enlightenment for humanity; Whereas past recipients of the World Peace Prize include President Ronald Reagan of the United States, President Abdurrahman Wahid of Indonesia, and President Nakamura of Palau; Whereas in 2010, the World

Peace Prize Awarding Council recognized His Holiness Dorje Chang Buddha III (referred to in this preamble as ‘‘H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III’’) for his devotion to an immensely wide scope of humanitarian activities directed at individuals from different communities throughout the world; Whereas H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has received numerous awards, including the United States Presidential Gold Award, which the Chairman of the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders presented on behalf of President George W. Bush to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III for the outstanding contributions of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III to the arts,

medicine, ethics, Buddhism, spiritual leadership, and United States society; and Whereas in 2010, the World Peace Prize Awarding Council also recognized the Honorable Benjamin A. Gilman for being a life-long champion of human rights who has fought world hunger, narcotics abuse, and narcotics trafficking: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Senate— (1) commends the World Peace Corps Mission for advancing peace, justice, and inter-religious collaborations; and (2) celebrates the World Peace Award and the recipients of the World Peace Award.

Kin of soldiers killed in action to get new homes

MANILA - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will soon distribute housing units to qualified heirs of soldiers killed in the line of duty under its newly approved “Killed-inAction (KIA) Off-Base Housing Program.”

Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP Public Affairs Office chief, said the military’s new housing scheme is in coordination with the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) and the National Housing Authority (NHA).

“In recognition of their selfless sacrifices, families of the fallen soldiers of the AFP will soon get new houses for only P200 monthly pay that is payable in only 10 years,” Detoya-

to said.

These housing units in the form of 36-square meter row-houses, with a floor area of 24 square meters, are currently being developed in Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

Detoyato said that in order for the slain soldiers’ beneficiaries to avail of the housing units, all they have to do is to submit the necessary documents to the AFP Housing Management Division, showing proof that they are the real beneficiaries of the fallen soldiers.

“The KIA beneficiaries simply have to submit their names, registered mailing address, contact numbers and

preferred sites among the housing sites to the AFP housing board for endorsement to the NHA,” Detoyato said.

AFP chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri has directed the commanders of the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines to notify the respective KIA beneficiaries about the new government housing programs for slain soldiers.

The government launched the new military housing program to ensure that the widows of soldiers, especially those who don’t have their own houses, would finally have their own permanent and secure dwelling. (Jaime Laude/ Philstar.com)

LOS ANGELES, CA -- Fifty Filipinos from across Southern California held a rally in front of the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles to protest against President Benigno Aquino III’s final State of the Nation Address on July 27, 2015.

BAYAN USA, an alliance of progressive Filipino organizations, mobilized community members from Los Angeles, South Bay, Inland Empire, and San Diego to conduct a “roast” protest of Aquino for failing to address human rights violations, pork barrel corruption, labor export of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), and the defense of Philippine sovereignty. A lechon-themed effigy displaying Aquino’s face and star spangled top hat was the main attraction of the rally, which included speeches, artwork, theatre, song, and poetry.

Nikole Cababa of BAYAN USA Southern California explained, “The Filipino people are fed up with Aquino’s lies and self-serving politics. It’s important we host a real state of the nation address to reflect the harsh realities and aspirations of Filipinos and migrants around the world.”

Trafficking survivors of Migrante Los Angeles, a Filipino migrant organization organizing for their rights and welfare, also attended the rally. The group performed theatre skits to portray the situation of OFWs, highlighting the case of Mary Jane Veloso, a single mother of two and a human trafficking victim facing execution in Indonesia who has been incarcerated since Aquino took office in 2010.

Nap Pempeña of Anakbayan Los Angeles said, “In the five years of his regime, he has done

nothing respectful. There is nothing respectful about the state of Mary Jane, the state of OFWs right now, along with 80 other OFWs on death row right now.”

Pempeña continued, “There’s nothing respectful about billions of dollars that are still in the coffers of politicians right now instead of being distributed to the victims of Typhoon Haiyan.”

Anakbayan Los Angeles helped recruit 30 Filipino American students to volunteer for the Kapit Bisig Kabataan Network’s ongoing typhoon relief and rehabilitation mission in the Philippines.

Activists held placards criticizing government neglect in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda with $33 million worth of relief money left unused in the bank accounts of Philippine government agencies.

The activists welcomed Filipino leaders from Mindanao who recently testified at the International People’s Tribunal in Washington D.C., which ruled that Aquino and the U.S. government, represented by President

promoted include cowboy poetry and the winery industry, which the lieutenant governor noted is developing in Douglas County.

The commission is also finalizing its fall and winter campaign to promote out-of-state tourism.

The focus of the campaign is largely on the state’s outdoor offerings, including skiing in Lake Tahoe and cycling in Nevada.

With his full plate of responsibilities, Hutchison remains in the present, focused on his du-

ties as Nevada’s lieutenant governor. One thing he’s not thinking about is whether he will run for re-election two years from now.

“Right now, all I’m focused on … [is] being the best elected official. [With] all these things I’ve got going, I’m handling a lot of balls in the air right now, so I’m really focused on serving as well as I possibly can. And then we’ll think about the 2018 election,” he said. (Agnes Constante/AJPress)

PAGE A7 t

whether or not those people have a mental illness of any degree. By broadening firearms bans to include people who have been convicted of violent misdemeanors or domestic violence, Swanson believes public safety could be enhanced while avoiding further stigmatization of mental illness.

Another topic of concern pertains to information sharing.

After some of the recent mass killings, there were accounts of mental health professionals becoming aware that the eventual perpetrator might pose a threat, and questions about whether such information could be shared more effectively.

Dr. Renee Binder said some universities—such as the massacre at Virginia Tech in 2007— have since formed threat management teams to “evaluate possible risks posed by students and employees, and, if necessary, take appropriate steps to prevent violence.”

“Teams generally include lawyers, law enforcement officials and mental health professionals, and their options include putting a potentially violent individual under close observation and arranging protection for potential targets,” she said.

As for individual psychiatrists, the accepted protocol obliges them to take action if they believe patients pose an imminent threat of harm to themselves or others.

If the level of threat is difficult to evaluate, a psychiatrist should consult with a colleague in a way that does not violate patient privacy, Dr. Binder said.

Early intervention can be crucial in enabling a person to get proper mental health treatment before problems get out of control, she added. To combat this, the American Psychiatric Association introduced a program

called “Typical or Troubled” in more than 2,000 schools nationwide. The program aims to train teachers to notice early warning signs and, if necessary, make referrals.

Paul Gionfriddo, CEO of the advocacy group Mental Health America, says school officials and other adults should think carefully about how to respond when young people do exhibit behavioral problems.

“They are frequently suspended or expelled from school, and the isolation that begins then contributes to further isolation as an adult,” he said. “What these kids need is even greater socialization at this time in their lives.”

In some states where mental illness was clearly a factor in highprofile violence, crucial steps have been taken to improve mental health programs, but not always as aggressively as advocates and victims’ families had hoped.

For instance, in Virginia, emergency mental health services have been re-strengthened, but Republican legislators have blocked the state from expanding Medicaid, which would enable more low-income people to obtain mental health care.

“We know there are tens of thousands of people who are walking time bombs, probably more dangerous to themselves than anyone,” said Virginia State Sen. Creigh Deeds—who was stabbed in 2013 by his own psychologically-troubled son, Gus (who committed suicide hours after he was released from emergency custody)—and is now leading the state’s efforts to expand mental health treatment.

Sen. Deeds added, “I want to make sure that anyone who needs care receives it.” (With reports from The Associated Press, NBC News, USA Today)

struction has risen.

The gas tax brings in about $35 billion a year for highway programs, but the government is spending about $50 billion.

Obama and many lawmakers say even $50 billion is far too little.

Although Congress could raise the gas tax, lawmakers fear a voter backlash. Obama and House Republican leaders want to change corporate tax laws that

encourage US companies to park profits overseas, and use the resulting revenue to fully pay for a six-year transportation bill.

But there is no consensus on the details of the corporate tax changes, and Mitch McConnell said he is skeptical they “can be shoehorned into a multiyear highway bill by the end of the year.” (With reports from The Associated Press and Fox News)

Barack Obama, are guilty for conducting human rights violations and crimes against the Filipino people.

“He practically bragged about everything except the truth,” stated Amirah Lidasan, of Suara Bangsamoro or Voice of the Moro People. “He did not say anything about the Mamasapano incident, how the US government has masterminded, planned, and pushed the Philippine government to implement an experimental war on terror program called the Oplan Exodus.”

A guest speaker from the Mindanao-based typhoon relief organization BALSA-Lanao, Vennel Chenfoo said, “Sa huling SONA, dito natin maipapakita ang lakas ng mamamayang pilipino na kung tayo’y magkakaisa, makakamit natin ang tunay na hustisya at tunay na kalayaan para sa ating bayan.” (“In his final SONA, we can show the strength of the Filipino people, that if we are united, we can achieve genuine justice and liberation for our country”) n

Nevada’s lieutenant governor…

PAGE A6 t

Mental health experts respond to mass…

been able to happen.”

“While these incidents seize public attention, there’s far less focus on the serious, systemic problems besetting America’s mental health system,” says Jeffrey Swanson, a professor of psychiatry at Duke University School of Medicine.

“Forty percent of people with serious mental illness are going without treatment—our systems are fragmented and overburdened,” Swanson said. “When do we pay attention to this? We pay attention when there’s a horrifying mass casualty shooting, and then people say: Let’s fix the system.’”

That puts mental health professionals in a bind, Swanson added.

“We’re trying to debunk the stigma that people in the mental health system are dangerous, and yet refocus attention to how do we improve the system,” he continued. “That’s the conversation we’re stuck with and we need to use it to educate the public that the vast majority of people with mental illness are not violent.”

Swanson and many of his colleagues, while committed to combatting stigma, acknowledge that some people with serious mental illness are more likely to commit violence than people who are not mentally ill.

“There’s a long way to go in developing treatment that works for more people,” he said. “It’s not just about getting better medications—it’s about providing the supportive services, jobs, access to housing.”

Swanson has been working with other researchers and mental health professionals on steps that could be taken to reduce access to firearms by people who pose a high risk of violence,

Congress passes short-term highway…

PAGE A7 t

The main roadblock has been finding the funds to pay for such programs, in a way that doesn’t increase the federal deficit.

In past decades, highway and transit programs were paid for with gas tax revenues and other transportation taxes and fees.

But the federal 18.4 cents-a-gallon gas tax has not been raised since 1993, while the cost of con-

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Dateline USA

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

A

TSA head vows to close security breaches at US airports

by Allyson

Escobar

AJPress

RESTIVE. A corn farmer crosses the makeshift wooden bridge in Barangay Tukanalipao, Mamasapano town in Maguindanao province six months after the tragedy that killed 44 Special Action Force members. Residents here remain restive and wary of massive violence that could disrupt their lives anew.

Inquirer.net photo by Richel Umel

LA City Attorney Mike Feuer meets with Philippine Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim LOS ANGELES City Attorney Mike Feuer met with Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim at the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles on July 27, 2015.

Attorney Mike Feuer in his first two years as City Attorney has nearly tripled the Neighborhood Prosecutor Program, launched a broad neighborhood school safety initiative, formed a strike force to combat illegal dumping, taken on wage theft, tackled substandard housing, cracked down on patient dumping, closed more than half the City’s unlawful medical marijuana dispensaries, instituted a program to protect immigrants from fraud, targeted polluters and advanced environmental justice.

Attorney Feuer among his initiatives created a Gun Violence Prevention Unit, Community Justice Initiative and jointly-authored the Homeowner’s Bill of Rights and the Iran Contracting Act. He wrote the Crime Gun Identification Act and the Sargent Shriver Civil Counsel Act, as well as the nation’s most comprehensive law to remove cancer-causing chemicals from consumer products.

During the meeting, Consul General Herrera-Lim expressed Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim meeting with LA City Atty Mike Feuer. his appreciation for the visit of stronger network with the Philip- Filipino-American Community of Attorney Feuer aimed at building pine Consulate General and the Los Angeles City. n

THE new leader of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said on Wednesday, July 29 that his top priority would be to close security gaps at airport checkpoints, where an internal report showed 96 percent of undercover tests failed.

The recent Department of Homeland Security (DHS) report found that investigators could sneak fake bombs and weapons fairly easily through security with a 95 percent success rate.

The report, led by Homeland Security Inspector General John Roth, also found that the TSA failed to detect at least 73 people with links to terrorism who were hired by US airports.

Peter Neffenger, the agency’s newly-appointed administrator, told a congressional panel that front-line TSA employees would be trained as soon as September to avoid the pitfalls that led

to those failures.

“My highest priority is to ensure solutions to the recent covert testing failures,” Neffenger said.

Lawmakers opened the US House of Representatives hearing with references to the report, which found airport screeners unable to detect banned weapons in 67 of 70 tests at dozens of airport checkpoints. The findings prompted widespread criticism that the TSA was emphasizing speed over security.

“These findings shatter public confidence,” said Republican Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee. “What are you planning to do as the new TSA administrator to address this enormous failure?”

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson reassigned the acting TSA administrator last month, and announced crucial steps to improve security at airports.

Neffenger said the agency would also improve its expe-

dited screening procedures and tighten oversight of security badges.

The former Coast Guard vice admiral, who has been in the job four weeks, will become head of a poorly-efficient, “struggling” security agency.

Rep. Bennie Thompson, the committee’s senior Democrat, cited multiple breaches caused by airport employees exploiting security gaps and personnel problems within the agency.

“TSA is plagued with very low morale and an extremely high turnover rate,” Thompson said.

Rep. John Katko also cited control over who gets access to airport’s secure areas as a “major, gaping hole” in airport security nationwide.

In addition, the New York Republican-sponsored legislation to tighten security standards for airport employees after recent incidents involving the trafficking of drugs and guns by employees. (With reports from Reuters, AFP)

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OPINION

FEATURES

A call to action

MARY Jane Veloso remained on death row as Philippine officials flew to Indonesia yesterday in a continuing effort to save her from execution. The single mother of two, who fled Dubai following an attempted rape and was promised a non-existent job as a maid in Malaysia, is just one of the numerous Filipino victims of human trafficking.

Jakarta deferred Veloso’s execution after her recruiter in the Philippines turned herself in to authorities. This bolstered Veloso’s defense that she was tricked by a crime ring into smuggling 2.6 kilos of heroin in her suitcase when she entered Indonesia from Malaysia five years ago.

Legal experts in Indonesia, which has tough laws to deal with a serious drug problem, have warned that the execution may still push through.

Veloso is one of tens of Filipinos facing death in several countries for acting as drug mules. China has executed some of the convicts in recent years.

The problem is aggravated by the proliferation of human trafficking rings in the Philippines that promise workers like Veloso non-existent jobs abroad, making them vulnerable to recruitment by drug rings.

The US government estimates that global human trafficking, which it likens to modern slavery, is a $150-billion industry. In its 2015 traffick-

ing in persons report, the US State Department has retained the Philippines for the fifth straight year in the Tier 2 list of countries that have not fully complied with minimum standards for eliminating human trafficking, although it has intensified efforts to do so. The US described the report as a call to action.

The US report took note of the conviction of 53 sex traffickers in the Philippines and compliance with several recommendations to fight human trafficking. The Philippine criminal justice system, however, is notoriously slow and inefficient. This emboldens human traffickers to continue preying on the vulnerable, particularly those from impoverished communities or in desperate need to earn a living such as Mary Jane Veloso. The government must do more not only to save her from death but also to prevent more prospective workers from being victimized by human traffickers and suffering the same fate.

(Philstar.com)

Guest Editorial

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Oras Na! #RoxasNa! Tara Na! SUCH a catchy title posted on Facebook by my dear friend from Manila, Dr. Vivian Sarabia, a staunch supporter of President Noynoy Aquino and now of the Liberal Party’s official nominee, DILG Secretary Mar Roxas.

Aquino’s anointment of Roxas could not have happened at a better place, as Club Filipino in the Greenhills area in San Juan had been a silent witness to Mar’s message, as depicted in two important historic moments that happened in this venue.

As ABS-CBN News reported, it was at Club Filipino that the late President Corazon Aquino took her oath as President of the Philippines after she took on the challenge of running against Ferdinand Marcos in a snap election in 1986, to help liberate the Filipino people from his dictatorship and usher in a new era of true democracy trampled during the Marcos regime.

After Philippine democratic icon Ninoy Aquino sacrificed his own life to fight against the Marcos dictatorship, his widow Cory left the comfort and safety of her life as a private citizen to continue the cause that her husband fought and died for.

“Bayan bago sarili” was the underlying message of the sacrifices made by both Ninoy and Cory.

In 2010, Club Filipino also witnessed how “Bayan bago sarili” came alive, when Roxas -- the then-Liberal Party presumptive nominee -- gave way to the candidacy of Noynoy Aquino following the death of President Cory Aquino. Cognizant of Noynoy’s singular capability to unify the Filipino people clamoring for an end to corruption and abuse of power in government, Mar supported Noynoy as the Liberal Party’s standard bearer.

Without Aquino, deposed PresiPamilyar sa akin ang dinaanan dent Erap Estrada, who placed sec- The Fil-Am ni PNoy; nauunawaan ko nang ond in the 2010 elections, would buo ang pagninilay na kinailanPerspective have been President (again). gan niyang gawin noong 2009.

And finally on July 31, 2015, Labas sa mga kilala talaga ako, which coincidentally was a “blue kakaunti ang nakakaalam na moon”, Mar’s time came to run hindi ko rin binalak pumasok sa for President, after having been gobyerno. May kapatid ako, si G EL SANTOS-RELOS endorsed by PNoy to be his sucDinggoy; namatay siya noong cessor. Aquino said he knows and 1993. Siya sana ang ambag ng believes it is Mar who will and can continue and aming henerasyon sa prinsipyong pamana ng akbuild on what his administration has started in ing lolo: “Bayan bago ang sarili.” Kakambal na ng reforming the government toward “daang matu- dugo namin ang kaisipang ito. Ito ang idiniin sa wid”, attesting to Mar’s integrity and self-sacrifice akin ng ama kong si Gerry at ito rin ang idinidiin for the good of the country. ko sa anak at sa aking mga pamangkin: May obAquino also trumpeted Roxas’ proven track re- ligasyon kang magsilbi; unahin mo ang kolektibo cord in governance, citing that Mar is the “father” kaysa personal; palagi kang mag-ulikid sa mga of the multibillion-peso business process outsourc- kababayan mo.” ing industry in the country.

Roxas became tearful as he shared the signifiPNoy also defended Roxas against criticism over cance of PNoy’s endorsement for him to be his his performance in the Yolanda (Haiyan) opera- successor: tions, and the Zamboanga siege, and said Roxas “Mr. President, kung maaalala po ninyo, noong did his best in both instances.

2009, nag-usap po tayo, bago po ninyo tinanggap Mar Roxas became emotional, and spoke from na tatakbo po kayo. Nagkasundo tayong isantabi his heart about how humbled and honored he is ang personal na interes, at isipin kung para saan ba to accept President Aquino’s endorsement. He talaga tayo nagsisilbi. Sabi mo sa akin noon, “Hindi shared the profound meaning of this moment to mo puwedeng talikuran ang panawagang ipagpatuhim, as it relates to his own family’s mission. loy ang laban ng iyong mga magulang…Sa pag-en“Maraming ginigising na alaala itong Club dorsong ito, ang pakiramdam ko, ipinapasa mo sa Filipino. Dito nanumpa si Pangulong Cory noong akin ngayon ang mga ipinaglaban nila.”

1986. Nabanggit na rin ni PNoy kanina, dito niya Vice President Jejomar Binay, however, remains tinanggap ang panawagang mamuno; at dito niya unfazed by Aquino’s anointment of Roxas, touting unang sinabing puwede na muli tayong manga- that he has defeated Mar in the 2010 Vice Presirap. Dito ko unang sinabi ang mga salitang “Bayan dential race. bago ang sarili.”

In polls leading up to Aquino’s endorsement of

Roxas, Mar has been placing third in Presidential polls, lagging behind Sen. Grace Poe and VP Binay.

PNoy explained: “Kung mapapansin ninyo, laging ‘tayo’ ang tuon namin at hindi katulad ng iba na panay ako ang gumawa nito at ako ang gumawa niyan. Marahil hindi rin mulat ang mga tao sa nagawa at tunay na pagkatao ni Mar. Sadyang ganyan ang kapalaran ng mga nakatuon sa tunay na pagbabago imbes na sa mga photo opp at doon sa paglalagay ng mukha sa novelty items.”

The President also said that there had been an orchestrated and tactical effort from Mar’s detractors to pull him down because they knew Mar was totally committed to “Daang Matuwid”, but affirmed that they just could not put a good man down. PNoy said it is time for the people to really know who the real Mar Roxas is.

“Kung mababa man ang kanyang mga numero sa ngayon, ibig sabihin kailangan pa nating paghusayan ang pagpapakilala sa kanya (If his current numbers are low, this only means we have to work harder on making him more well-known),” President Aquino said.

Who is the real Mar Roxas? The Filipino people would like to know. He has about nine months to bare his soul, lay down his vision and programs for the country, and win the hearts of the Filipino people. *** >\c JXekfj I\cfj `j k_\ XeZ_fi f] K=:Ëj È9Xc`kXe^ 8d\i`ZX%É M`\nj Xe[ fg`e`fej \ogi\jj\[ Yp k_\ Xlk_fi `e k_`j Zfclde Xi\ Xi\ jfc\cp k_fj\ f] k_\ Xlk_fi Xe[ efk f] 8j`Xe AflieXc Xe[ 89J$:9E$K=:% =fi Zfdd\ekj# ^f kf nnn%K_\=`c$8dG\ijg\Zk`m\%Zfd# _kkgj1&&nnn% ]XZ\Yffb%Zfd&>\c%JXekfj%I\cfj

Racism should be museum artifact, not in our hearts and minds!

“THIS is a lesson for each of us, but Rhizomes also for the church of our time: If we let ourselves be led by the Holy Spirit, if we are able to mortify our selfishness PROSY ABARQUEZto make room for the DELACRUZ, J.D. Lord’s love and for his will, we will find peace, we will be builders of peace and will spread peace around us.”—Pope Francis, address, June 3, 2012 Pulitzer-prize winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas and MTV recently created a documentary, White People. It illustrated how whites define themselves as “the default race, the norm, the good thing.” The 2010 census revealed that whites live in a bubble, where more than 77 percent are white, and with friends that are 91 percent white. The documentary continues, “whites are raised by white people, who are oblivious to race and issues that affect other people,” while another informs us about “where we live is all white people, they are all nice people, but at the end of the day… they are close-minded.”

Much of what we saw on television prior to 2014 were shows about white folks. While some of us, subscribe to GMA and ABS-CBN to see and hear teleseryes in Tagalog, our native tongue. In our native tongue, we get a sense of home, feeling safe in seeing familiar places that we frequented in the

provinces, comforting us that we are home, even if in an adopted place, called America.

Notice though that if whites stay in a bubble, we too, stay in our bubble of ethnicitiesspecific activities: our neighborhood Catholic Church, local Catholic School and even our favorite weekend foods of lechon, menudo, pancit and lumpia. Even birthday celebrations and special family moments of bonding are limited to our family members and friends.

How then do we increase our knowledge and awareness of one another and each other’s issues? How can whites become more aware of issues affecting us, people of color? How do we, folks of color, become more aware of issues affecting whites in our midst and the folks of color around us?

Should we be concerned that Ku Klux Klan groups are popping up more?

Should we be concerned that our mainstream television news channels are no longer filtering hate messages, and instead, amplifying them to the point of popularizing these messages?

Should we be concerned that our own cable television shows contribute to that ignorance and without any discussions on race and racism as modern issues of the day?

How do we mortify our selfishness as a modern, developed, first world,

that gave birth and nurtured a young 21-year-old Dylann Roof to be so filled with hate, and one who captured the world’s attention when he took the lives of 9 members of the Emmanuel African Methodist Church in Charleston, South Carolina, during a bible study at 9pm?

Eight died at the church, while another died on the way to the Medical University of South Carolina. Did you know that Dylann was welcomed by the bible study group, which he joined for an hour, before he took out his gun to kill folks?

Did you know that Dylann Roof revered the Confederate flag, a flag that was flown by the states who opposed freeing the slaves, and fought for the imposition of slavery against African Americans? Did you know that to this day, young white folks choose to fly this flag in their vehicles, even while camping in Northern California? When I saw this flag, it gave me eerie feeling of chills, as I saw hatred embodied, and the flag symbolized the hatred and the racial subjugation of African Americans as America’s second-class citizens.

Granted it is just a flag, and to some, they argue it is part of their heritage, but, to claim slavery as your heritage, is to claim something wrong as part of what was done in one’s history.

Should we now ask television network owners to be mindful of the content of their television shows? Should we watch our words around each other so we are not conveying hatred? Should we be-

come “correction police” for what we hear are distastefully racist around us?

Huffington Post’s Erin Whitney writes that 2014 became one of the most diverse in television history, “old shows sparkled too. Netflix’s ‘Orange is the New Black’ continued to lead a progressive movement on television and even found time to celebrate women of different body types. And a conversation about the growing diversification of the television industry wouldn’t be complete without praise of Shonda Rhimes, queen of Thursday night. Rhimes is not only a powerhouse figure on her own, being one of the few women, and women of color, behind the camera, but she’s also brought us two hit shows led by black actresses. With ‘Scandal,’ Kerry Washington became the second African-American female to lead a network drama since Diahann Carroll starred in 1968’s Julia and ‘How to Get Away With Murder’ not only stars Viola Davis, but also features a racially diverse cast of young actors.”

Should we celebrate that it took 47 years for Kerry Washington, an African American, cast as the female lead in a mainstream television show? Should we also celebrate that Jennifer Lopez, a Latina, as one of the American Idol’s judges, though its 15th upcoming season is its last? What about ‘Dancing with the Stars’ where we saw our very own Cheryl Burke, a Filipina-American professional, as one of the lead dance choreographers and instructors in 18

seasons, and who bagged the championship in two seasons? Should we feel like celebrating everytime we see a Filipino/a talent participate in ‘The Voice’ or even ‘American Idol,’ wherein Jessica Sanchez came in second?

Or what about our Filipina dermatologist, Dr. Tess Mauricio, who regularly appears in mainstream talk shows to discuss about how to be “skin-well”?

Should we celebrate that we have Giselle Tongi-Walters as the host of ‘Kababayan Today,’ the only television show for and of Filipinos in America that is now going to be watched nationally, including Hawaii? Should we celebrate that we have many more plays and musicals now being showcased at mainstages throughout the US? That our very own internationally-acclaimed Lea Salonga (Miss Saigon, Mulan) will be starring in a Broadway play, called Allegiance, inspired by the true story of its star, George Takei (Star Trek, Heroes) this fall? Would that be enough?

Being comfortable with being uncomfortable The first time I covered Air Force One with the big-time male photographers and male newscasters of major television channels, mostly whites, and few Latinos, I was so uncomfortable. It took a burly White man to help me out and he literally walked me through and what to expect.

When I was first invited to attend a Seder at a Jewish family home, I felt un-

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

Philstar.com/File photo

UN notes waning attention on Yolanda survivors

by Rainier

Allan Philstar.com

Ronda

MANILA – After a 10-day visit and assessment of evacuation areas in the country for people displaced by disaster and conflict, a United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) said the attention on helping survivors rendered homeless

by Super Typhoon Yolanda was “waning.”

Chaloka Beyani, in a press briefing to give an initial report

on his 10-day visit in the Philippines, said “regrettably, it appears that funding and attention to IDPs is waning.”

“The national government, together with its local government partners, must ensure that it follows through on the assistance that it has provided to date to ensure that it truly meets the needs and rights of all those displaced,” Beyani said.

“While the government is to be commended in terms of its immediate responses, its attention to ensuring sustainable, durable

solutions for IDPs remains inadequate to date. I believe that profiling, full needs assessment and verification exercise is required during this crucial transition period between early recovery and the attainment of durable solutions,” Beyani said.

He observed that Yolanda survivors were generally satisfied with the temporary shelters given to them but pointed out basic utilities like electricity and water were not provided in these transition communities. (With reports from Rhodina Villanueva)

Racism should be museum…

PAGE A10 t

comfortable. It took my friend to walk me through as to what to expect: hours of discomfort, long hours of prayers, simulating the suffering of their ancestors, before dinner is served. It started at 6pm and dinner was served at close to 10pm.

But, when I covered another event, predominantly African Americans, near the airport, I did not feel the need to be walked through nor the need to know what to expect. I felt at home, simply because the organizers warmly welcomed me and ushered me to a seat.

Isn’t that what home is about, to warmly welcome someone into? Should we not do the same in making others comfortably at home in our midst, so we can educate ourselves about others, outside of our daily bubbles?

Notice how you feel when you are in Hawaii, you are welcomed at the airport with a lei and introduced to the hang loose sign of the natives? In Hawaii, it is Aloha for all!

Jose Antonio Vargas is right: we can all be uncomfortable at the same time in this journey to remove racism from our hearts and minds.

By asking the questions of what makes us uncomfortable, by starving our selfishness, we can perhaps shed light on dark issues of racism embedded in the recesses of our hearts and tinges of biases that we carry in the back of our minds. *** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.” She has been writing for Asian Journal Press for 8 years now. She contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in the field of science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium and Mexico and 22 national parks in the US, in pursuit of her love for arts.

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A11

A12 AUGUST 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Dateline PHILIPPINES

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

A13

UST, Aquino battle over flood project After mentioning a “particular university” in Manila in his last State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27, as among those blocking the development of infrastructure projects, President Benigno Aquino III gained the ire of University of Santo Tomas alumni and students.

Although he did not specifically mention the university’s name, it was easy to identify that it was UST because apart from its rich history and strong legacy, it is also known as the most floodprone school in Manila.

The solution to the problem, according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), is to construct a “catchment basin” underneath the university to lessen the flooding in the area. However, since it is within the university’s property, UST has to give permission to the DPWH to be able to do the construction.

Catch and release Since 2011, the DPWH has proposed to dig out a retarding tank under UST’s open grounds.

This, they say, will serve as storage for water during heavy rains and can be pumped out to waterways after a downpour. Also known as a “catch basin,” a similar structure is in place underneath Burgos Circle in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

The five-story structure is a water-impounding system that stores floodwater and later releases it into Manila Bay. In 2012, the DPWH looked into the possibility of using the same system for parts of Metro Manila like Marikina and Camanava (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela) who have to deal with perennial flooding especially during the rainy season.

With the case of UST, among the flood prone roads near it is the Espana-Antipolo-Maceda area. According to a scientific study published by a team of scientists led by Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay of Project NOAH and the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences, the Espana area near the university is a lowlying area, and should be either elevated, or construct a retention (or catch) basin big enough to hold the volume of flood water in the area.

The study also added that the basin must be designed to directly drain into the nearest stream channel.

Public safety over National Treasure

NATIONAL TREASURE VS PUBLIC SAFETY. Shown in photo is the University of Santo Tomas’ Open Field at night, which is the center of debate by citizens after Philippine President Benigno Aquino III indirectly commented in his last State of the Nation Address (SONA) that a “particular university” refused to cooperate with the government’s infrastructure projects. The university, which is prone to flood especially during the rainy season, has turned down the proposal of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to put a “catch basin” underneath the field.

Photo from Tripomatic.com

In 2013, the UST administration rejected DPWH’s proposal citing “security concerns” and the “expected disturbance of the university’s activities.”

Apart from those concerns, it is also pointed out that the university’s open spaces and other buildings (Open Field, Main Building, Central Seminary and Arch of the Centuries) were declared by the National Museum in 2010 as National Cultural Treasures. This means that the government is obligated to protect these areas and provide funding for conservation and restoration.

Many have chimed in about the issue.

In a television interview, Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda defended the President’s statement.

“The interest of the many should prevail over the interest of the few. Maraming nababaha.

Doesn’t it make sense that we need to attend to the welfare of so many—not just adults, but schoolchildren, kids who traverse those roads in times of storms?

Would you forego safety over a prized soccer field,” he said.

The Open Field, which Lacierda referred to, was the venue of several historical events, particularly the 1995 World Youth Day, as well as visits of three popes: Blessed Paul VI, Saint John Paul II and Pope Francis.

Although UST has no official statement about the matter, students and alumni have expressed their disappointment over Aquino’s indirect criticism on the university’s supposedly disapproval of the project.

“Other than the argument of being a national and cultural treasure, there are factors into play.

For one the area is inhabited and (it’s) about safety and reliability of the grounds and structure,” posted Larry Tobias on The Varsitarian’s (UST’s official student publication). “I wish the govern-

ment can think thoroughly before speaking irresponsibly. And why UST? Because they want the easy way out, bakanteng lote eh…at least (that’s) how they see it. There are other options I am pretty sure. Seems we did not learn enough from the Rizal Monument issue. Leave UST alone. Period.”

San Francisco-based writer and producer Julius Fernandez wrote in his blog (https://fernandezjrp. wordpress.com) that it was unfair for Aquino to imply that UST was unwilling to do its part and work with the administration.

“To imply that UST is not willing to sacrifice and is not doing its part is hurtful on the part of the Tomasino community who has always been a partner of the Philippine government in many of its projects—especially within the heavily-congested City of Manila,” Fernandez wrote. “Why does UST have to take blame for poor urban planning and management?”

Both sides have stated their cases and still most believe that it is more than just protecting the heritage and a national treasure.

Majority have expressed that they do not have confidence that the government will be able to pull through the project in spite of what might be a solid plan and proposal of the DPWH. Rapid urbanization and migration has been blamed as the cause of deterioration of its waterfronts and drainage system. Metro Manila is estimated to have an overall population of 12 million in 2014.

From 1998 to 2012, there had been about 10 different flood control projects for Metro Manila, funded by the Philippine government, Asian Development Bank, JBIC, JICA, the World Bank, AusAID and other international agencies. (With reports from GMA News, Rappler, The Varsitarian and ABS-CBN News)

Philippine Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China Erlinda F. Basilio (left) and Ms Li Hongmei (right), Executive Deputy Director of the International News Division of China Economic Net. Photo by gov.ph

PH envoy to China highest paid exec in 2014

MANILA - Philippine Ambassador to Beijing Erlinda Basilio was the highest paid government official in 2014, according to a report on salaries and allowances (ROSA) released by the Commission on Audit (COA) on Friday, July 31.

Records show that she received over P16.439 million last year, including a basic pay of P947,352 and allowances reaching P15.345 million along with bonuses, incentives and benefits amounting to P146,318.57.

Named to the Beijing embassy in December 2012, Basilio was not on the list of COA’s top 10 highest paid government officials

in 2013.

The emoluments of a diplomat include not only their basic salary but also allowances for overseas assignment, according to Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose.

“Allowances, which are provided in our regulations, are commensurate to one’s rank and position,” he said.

The cost of living in the post where diplomats are assigned are also taken into account, Jose said.

Second to Basilio in the 2014 list is Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) president and general manager Robert Vergara, who received P12.567

million last year.

Those in the third to eighth spot in the ROSA are also diplomats, led by Ambassador to London Enrique Manalo, who received P12.342 million.

Lourdes Yparraguirre (Vienna) follows with P11.745 million; Maria Teresa Taguiang (Tokyo) with P10.905 million; World Trade Organization (WTO) permanent representative Esteban Conejos Jr. with P10.701 million; Philippe Jones Lhuillier (Lisbon) with P10.564 million; and Maria Cleofe Natividad (Berlin) with P9.863 million. (With reports from Michael Punongbayan, Pia Lee-Brago)

GenSan sets new Guinness record

GENERAL SANTOS CITY: This thriving port city is now the record holder for the world’s largest fish display.

Organizers of the annual Tuna Festival said on Thursday, July 30 that the Guinness World Records has finally approved the city’s display of around 25.5 metric tons (MT) of tuna on Sept. 11 last year as a new world record.

The world record bid was the highlight of the 16th Tuna Festival, which was co-organized by the city government and the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA)-General Santos Fish Port Complex (GSFPC).

Paris Ayon, GSFPC food safety chief and festival assistant director, said they learned about Guinness’ decision in a note posted at its website.

“We saw it in its dashboard so we immediately verified it with Guinness,” he told PNA. The festival’s secretariat noted that a Guinness representative later confirmed the matter in re-

sponse to an email inquiry.

“I can confirm that your record is approved with the following text: The largest fish display consists of 25,594.49 kg (56,426 lb [and] 3 oz) of yellowfin tuna and was achieved by the City of General Santos (Philippines) in General Santos City, South Cotabato, Philippines, on 11 September 2014.

A certificate was sent to you,” read Guinness’ email confirmation as posted in the festival’s Facebook page.

Guinness, however, has not yet made an official announcement of the feat that is usually posted in its website.

“We’re also waiting for the copy of the certificate so we can make an official declaration,” Ayon said.

He confirmed that the city officials have initially signified to put up a marker of the world record at the city fish port complex in Barangay Tambler.

The world record bid was

made last year by fish port workers who were able to display and weigh around 33,610 kilograms or 33.61 MT in about 15 minutes.

Guinness has no specific world record for the largest fish display but it acknowledged the largest seafood display established

by Schmidt Zeevis and Wichter Steller of Schmidt Zeevis in Rotterdam, Netherlands on June 26, 2011.

The display consisted of 2,271.7 kg or 5,008 lb of seafood that was achieved with the help of executive chef Erik Troost and his team on the Lido deck of the SS Rotterdam, Guinness said.

Dubbed the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” the city is currently the country’s top source of fresh and processed tuna exports.

It is home to six of the country’s seven tuna canneries and other related ventures that generate average annual export receipts of nearly USD300 million. n

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B

Journal Tateng Katindig’s piano playing with jazz royalties

by Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. AJPress

“Similarly, the violinist [pianist] who plays a work from memory may convey—if he is playing the piece with the conviction and intelligence and understanding it requires, and if he has mastered his instrument—rapturous improvisation to his audience, as if those notes which he has studied for so many years still reveal, at the very moment when he is playing them again, a new secret, something which has just come to him, a new meaning which is particularly relevant to that very audience, new meaning which is particularly relevant to that very audience, to that very moment. This is perfectly pos-

sible, but to achieve this quality of communication with a great classic it is necessary to enter completely the composer’s mind, to follow his thoughts and his pen as he wrote those notes down, to follow evolution and impulses which carried him from one note to the next.”

- Yehudi Menuhin and William Primrose.

Tateng Katindig, on the piano and two keyboards, performs with an innate electricity enlivening the audience, that with any headlining artist -- be it Warren Hill, Michael Paulo (virtuoso saxophonist), Mon David (an internationally awardwinning virtuoso jazz vocalist with

Duet with Ramon M. Delacruz and Tateng Katindig at LA Rose Cafe

Photos by Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz.

singers onstage. It was at the Ford with many enthusiasts in the audia new CD to be launched this Au- Someone to Watch Over Me)—he Amphitheater, while playing with ence, including this writer. gust), Pauline Wilson (Grammy— ups his game and becomes one Michael Paulo’s A-list band that This September, he will be tourwinning artist who has popularized with the audience, the band and the Tateng’s performance got seared PAGE B2 Tateng Katindig

‘Freeman’ Chris Brown snubs preliminary investigation

by Tetch

Torres-Tupas Inquirer.net

International singer Chris Brown failed to send a counsel or representative to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to face the US$1million estafa complaint filed against him and his promoter by Maligaya Development Corporation (MDC).

During Friday’s preliminary investigation, only Brown’s promoter Filipino-Canadian John Michael Pio Roda and his counsel appeared before the DOJ. Records of the preliminary investigation showed that Brown did not send a representative or counsel and no one received a subpoena sent by the DOJ. Based on MDC’s complaint, MDC through J. Williams Management Group (JWMGI) negotiated with Roda’s Pinnacle Live Concepts Limited to bring Brown into the country. They agreed to the amount of $1,006,250 so that Brown can perform at the Philippine Arena on Dec. 31, 2014.

By Dec. 1, 2014, JWMGI has already paid in full the agreed amount of which $700,000 were deposited directly to Brown’s

Chris Brown

account.

“As a result of Chris Brown’s nonappearance, the complainant corporation suffered not only financial damage but also damage to its reputation and embarrassment. It should be noted that hard-earned money from the public was used to purchase tickets in consideration for Mr. Brown’s performance. Since the complainant’s name was exposed in all marketing collaterals and its representatives even offered to sell the tickets themselves, the

public’s outrage and disappointment were inevitably directed against the complainant,” the complaint stated.

“It is only just today that we were able to receive a copy of the complaint. We fully intend to address all allegations during the next hearing when we file our complaint,” Roda’s counsel Sarah Abraham said.

Last July 24, Brown was allowed to leave the country after securing an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) to show that he has no obligation in the Philippines.

The Bureau of Immigration explained that it considered that Brown has no derogatory record despite the complaint filed by MDC because it is still pending before the Prosecutors’ office.

Roda, on the other hand stayed in the Philippines after the BI detained him for working without the appropriate permit, for defrauding his creditors by absconding, and for undesirability.

Both Brown and Roda, according to State Prosecutor Christine Marie Buencamino, have until Aug. 17 to submit their counteraffidavits.

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Where have all the soldiers gone?

by MYLAH DE

LEON

IT was time once more to honor the men and women who died during moments of celebration despite the bloody cost, on Tuesday, July 28, inside the protective cocoon of =`c`g`ef Nfic[ NXi @@ M\k\iXej _fefi\[ Yp Cfj 8e^\c\j :`kp :fleZ`c fe 8 nXid _Xe[j_Xb\ ]fi M\k\iXe =iXeZf 8iZ\YXc ]ifd :fleZ`cd\dY\i GXlc Bi\bfi`Xe% the Los Angeles City Council. k_\ .'k_ Xee`m\ijXip f] k_\ M`Zkfip f] 9\jXe^ GXjj% It wasn’t just about the colors or uniforms. It was just a few moments to show off their medals and remember bittersweet memories.

Many of those who left for World War II were fresh, muscular 20-21 year-old young adults.

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This Summer, We’ve Got You Covered

WHO doesn’t love long, summer days filled with pool time, backyard barbecues and nature hikes? At Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center, we want you to enjoy these moments with your family without the added worry of accidents and injuries. Dr. Brigeli Westerband, M.D., Glendale Memorial’s Emergency Medicine Division Chair shares, “By taking note of a few simple precautions, we can keep our families safe and healthy. Wherever your summer adventures take you, we’ve got you covered.”

In the Pool: Remember to wear sunscreen and sunglasses with both UVA and UVB protection.

Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or 8ik >XiZ`X# `e X _l[[c\ n`k_ k_\ m\k\iXe _fefi\\j% higher at least 30 minutes before to speak to us about the death all 100,000 of them (with only diving in and reapply after you defying dramas they survived oh 75,000 survivors and the remain- swim. ing 25,000 dying at the rate of so long ago!

At the Barbeque: Review grill Craggy faced veterans in their five each day) not given equal acuniforms and garrison caps, be- cess to the benefits long enjoyed decked with medals of valor, stom- by Americans with whom they achs in, shoulders back, faces set fought side by side in the Bataan firm, stood solemnly, occasionally Peninsula, at Leyte Gulf and in the mountains of Luzon? dabbing at their eyes.

As the old veteran saying goes: It was a day of retracing the steps from many year ago, in “They gave up their tomorrows for honor of fallen comrades. The your today!” all now before other We honor in different ways men in their uniforms, the Fil-Am NUMEROUS community, began to clap and WWII veterans and even more calls and orders stomp their feet and some began those that have gone.

Last Tuesday, the LA City Coun- have been coming in to cry.

The people’s applauses were cil, led by Council President recently to reserve special. They weren’t in the pro- Herb Wesson, Councilmen Mitch VIP seats for Basil gram. There was no cue. People O’Farell and David Ryu produced Valdez’ upcoming simply put their hands together, an unparalleled tribute to the concert on Aug. 8 in long sustained ovation for the remnants of WWII veterans. at the Grove of Anabemedaled veterans of a world Councilmember Krekorian, who heim. Geneva Cruz war, who came perhaps for the last sponsored the resolution, present- will be featured as time to pay tribute to the few left ed the certificate of recognition the guest performer among them, and their untucked to surviving veterans, Francisco of the concert.

It only took the Franco Arcebal, who fought in memories.

Why are the Filipino veterans, the Battle of Bessang Pass; Greg famous Filipino balAlbeno, a Bataan Death march ladeer a few weeks survivor; and John Aspiras Jr. of to sell all of the VIP tickets. Fans are JFAV. It was a commemoration of the still calling in and 70th year anniversary of the Battle fighting for the best of Bessang Pass, June of 1945, the seats in the house to only Filipino Military victory over watch their favorite Japan’s Imperial army in WWII in singer perform live.

There is only less the Philippines.

Scores of widows and relatives than a week left to of the veterans, Art Garcia led the reserve tickets for his 9Xj`c MXc[\q JFAV, Bernie Ganon of FASGI, concert. Seats are Silverlake CBAS and SAFACE available for $78, $68, $58, and filled the Hall. It was capped by $48. Don’t miss out on this opa Chinese luncheon hosted by portunity to watch the famous FASGI Executive Director Ms. Yey Filipino balladeer return to sing his well-known songs like “Ngayon Coronel.

safety to avoid harmful burns.

Prevent foodborne illnesses by washing your hands before preparing or serving any food, keeping raw meat away from other food and utensils, and cooking food at the correct temperature to eliminate any harmful bacteria.

On a Hike: Try hiking before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are less strong. Don’t forget to wear long sleeves to protect skin from poison ivy/oak and use insect repellant to prevent harmful bug bites.

And no matter what, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and heat stroke. Want to learn more from our professionals? For a free referral to a Glendale Memorial Hospital-affiliated physician, call our Doctor Finder service at (818)502-2378.

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Tateng Katindig’s piano playing...

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G8>< 9( ing with Warren Hill, one of the best contemporary saxophonists, a composer and an arranger, when Warren performs in South Korea, India, Vietnam and hopefully, the Philippines.

Come August 9, Ted Benito posted on Facebook: “The one and only male jazz vocalist, Mon David who will be launching his new CD, ‘This is All I Ask,’ at the Catalina Bar and Grill in Hollywood at 7 pm.

Accompanying the master will be Theo Saunders, Tateng Katindig, Chuck Manning, Trevor Ware, Nolan Shaheed and Abe Lagrimas, Jr. It’s very, very rare that a Filipino artist plays at Catalina, and with someone as special as Mon, this event is not to be missed.”

Tateng adds that it is an honor to accompany the master vocalist Mon David as he genuinely likes the artist, but also his chosen repertoire of Jazz music.

As I wrote this piece, Tateng performed at the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts with Slim Manicotti, Greg Vail and Craig Davis Chestnut; two weeks before that, at the First Asian American Jazz Festival at the Japanese American Cultural Center’s Plaza.

Musicians are in the family and they are family Tateng hails from Bulacan and Pampanga. He credits his father, Eduardo Katindig, Sr. for exposing him to music at age 7, while his mother, Remedios Hernaez Katindig, nurtured the family, as his father traveled to earn his living through music. His eldest brother, Henry, is a keyboard player in the Philippines, and the youngest is Eugene, called “sticks” a cruise ship performer for 20 years now.

His cousin, Boy Katindig, is a jazz pianist and arranger, whose father was the great Romy Katindig, a well-known band leader, pianist and Philippine jazz legend who passed away in 1990. Tateng played

the circuit in the Philippines and accompanied Martin Nievera, Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, Kevyn Letthau, among others. Tateng performed at the Admiral Hotel with Tata Winston Raval, who was its entertainment manager, and where for each jazz night, the hotel featured new artists. Their life’s theme then was “Jazz or Die,” and with no family to support, Tateng traveled all over the Philippines.

Tateng became part of a quartet: Mar Dizon (one of the best drummers), Tots Tolentino (saxophonist who graduated summa cum laude from UP College of Music), Ernie Severino (drummer of Side A, a pop band, best known for their single, Forevermore) and Lou Ortiz (bassist who plays with Australian Symphony) and whose music was heard in the Philippines.

Tateng toured with Kevyn Letthau in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, whose hit song ‘Sunshine’ got so popular in TV commercials and airlines. He toured with Noel Pointer, a violinist, with hit songs Superwoman and East St. Louis Blues. Then, Eric Mariental, a saxophonist who played with Chick Correa, went to the Philippines to perform and Tateng did a two night gig with him.

As Tateng played jazz music, that branding boxed him inside that genre, even though he could broadly play a repertoire from classical to jazz to blues to pop and more.

Katindig was a well-known brand name for music. The surname Katindig carried Tateng as he went places, and he became grateful of what his father, Eddie K had done to pave the way for him and other musicians. Even today, Eddie K is a well-known saxophonist who has made a name for himself, as the first solo musician to go from backstage to frontstage, elevating himself from being a backup musician. His dad boldly made the move,

and although without any formal training, his pure talent kept him onstage.

Katindigs in national touring concerts In the mid-90s, a Katindig reunion was arranged in Houston, Texas by Tateng’s uncle, Panting Katindig. Out of a planned four-city tour, two concerts were held, but Tateng was overcome by loneliness, so he went home to join his two sons and his wife. A second reunion was planned and in 2000, Tateng decided to stay in the US and pursue full-time being a musician.

I asked him how he sustains his contact with his two sons, now grown, and both graduates in accounting. Skype has helped, but he still yearns to be reunited with his two sons, just as he dreams of a concert featuring all the Katindigs, much like the reunion onstage of Michael Paulo and his father, Rene Paulo.

Who will be part of this dream concert at Disney Hall, I asked Tateng? Eddie K, saxophonist father; Tateng on the piano; Abe Lagrimas, Jr. on vibraphone to play with Eddie K, who also plays the vibraphone; his brother, Henry, on the keyboard; his brother Eugene, on drums and of course, his cousin, Boy Katindig who is a pianist and who inspires Tateng to be on top of his game.

Who will be the vocalists? Tateng is quick to name Mon David and family, Charito’s Voice and a number of great jazz vocalists in the US, including Grammy winner, Pauline Wilson. We hoped that the Higher Universe supports this big dream and perhaps in 2016 or sooner, this concert is actualized or that we see Tateng Katindig and the family musicians as part of the Tokyo-Manila Jazz Fest.

Tateng’s sustained success in mainstream I asked Tateng’s secret to his G8>< 9*

Features

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • august 1-4, 2015

B

Jon Paul Puno and Rox Puno, son of Filipino pop legend Rico J. Puno, at City of Dreams Manila. Coming from a musical family, the cousins are both singers.

Innovative learning at Marian College 2015 has ushered in a new phase for Marian College student life which has made aspects in learning and communication more dynamic.

Marian College continues to adopt innovative practices such as the integration of a virtual library, giving student access to more study material and an improved mobile website that allows future and current students to receive information more effectively.

Moreover we at Marian College understand that with growth and maturation comes the responsibility to more adequately stress the importance of impact driven work both in the health care industry and our local communities.

ENCORE EPISODE ON “CITIZEN PINOY!” My son is a green card holder, but has been in the Philippines since 2010. Will he have problems at the airport when he returns to the US? Can an adopted child petition his biological parents? How can a tourist get a work permit?

These questions, and more, on an encore episode of—“Citizen Pinoy: Your Tanong, My Sagot”—on Sunday, August 2 at 6:15pm PST/EST (9:15pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

Marian happy to work again with Ai Ai

by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

MANILA—Marian Rivera is happy with her reunion project with Ai Ai delas Alas.

They’ll be working together on GMA’s upcoming Sunday variety show “Sunday Pinasaya” which will air on August 9.

“Sobrang happy ko kasi finally magkakasama kami ni Kambal, sa pelikula lang kami nagkasama,” she said, referring to the film “Kung Fu Divas.” Marian talked to the members of the press on Thursday, July 30.

It was early this month when reports came out that “Sunday All Stars” will be replaced by a show with her and Ai Ai as hosts.

“So finally parang nagkatrabaho na kami and ang saya dahil kasama ko siya,” she added.

(Advertising Supplement)

Marian Rivera

Bea Alonzo: Do I look like I’m heartbroken?

by Nathalie Tomada Philstar.com

MANILA—Bea Alonzo has held her own and proven her worth in movies and teleseryes, but she still felt nervous acting alongside Richard Gomez and Dawn Zulueta in the Star Cinema film “The Love Affair.”

“Of course, I felt nervous (acting with them), but the good thing was they were very approachable and they didn’t treat me like I was the younger actress, but equally just like how they treated everyone else. And maganda yung collaboration namin, we talked about our characters… They are very generous actors,” Bea said in a presscon last Monday at the Dolphy Theater for the Nuel Naval-directed family drama that premieres on Aug. 12.

The 27-year-old Bea was all praise for both Richard and Dawn as persons, not just as co-stars.

“Si Kuya Goma (Richard’s nickname), he always makes us laugh on the set, he’s not serious… he’s not serious in life!” said Bea, although she quickly

corrected herself, when her answer drew laughs from the audience. “Let me rephrase that (laughs). He’s just enjoying life, he’s happy with his life. That’s the one thing I don’t like about myself—sometimes, I get too serious about life that I don’t get to enjoy life anymore. That’s what I like about his personality,nainspire ako sa pagiging ganun niya. And he has done a lot in his life, he’s not just acting, he’s also into sports, he loves music, plays instruments, he plays the guitar, and now he wants to learn to play the violin. I told him, how are you able to do all these things? So, I’m really impressed by him.”

As for Dawn, Bea unabashedly confessed, “I’m a fan of her.”

“We can all see how beautiful she is, and I always tell her that.

Si Ms. Dawn, she’s very graceful in everything that she does, she’s such a good actress… I admire how she handles her personal life and her career. I want to be like her someday.”

Bea portrays a young lawyer who will come in between

Bea Alonzo

Richard and Dawn who play a married couple. Her character, who is “in pain and broken” after being cheated on by a fiancé, finds solace in Richard whose character is also enmeshed in the same situation. As they say, misery loves company.

“The Love Affair,” as its trailer teases, explores the cycle of hurt in relationships: You know, if PAGE B6

Tateng Katindig’s piano playing...

PAGE B2 fluidity on the piano, where the keys seem to melt like butter on his fingers.

“It is by practicing and working hard. It is always the hard work before so that by the night of the performance, it is fluid and you are in command. It used to be six to seven hours a day, but now, I ask for the music sheets in advance, so I can practice ahead of time, two to three hours a day,” he said.

As to his inspiration and sustained motivation, Tateng said, his two sons, Third and Carl and his daughter, Ella. “But, when I am onstage, it is the Lord and the musicians. It is always in service of the music, what type of instruments would be needed to support for example, Michael Paulo on the saxophone – is it multi-keyboard playing, where there is a synthesizer, an electric piano sound, strings and brasses sound. I need to level up and work harder to join the A-list band, I have to lead with my energy, as they in turn

lead me with their s . What I do is not unlike what Herbie Hancock or Chick Correa when they play with a stack of musical instruments onstage. There is also an innate competitiveness in me to keep up with my family members who are all musicians but also because I can really feel the love of my wife, Dinah. Dinah is the whole meaning of love, from her I feel the love.”

Lastly, he credits much of his success in the US to his father, Eddie K, who helped Tateng by introducing him to Mike Mediano, who then introduced him to LA-based musicians. Eddie K reminded him that each musician does something unique onstage.

For example, Herbie Hancock plays differently than Chick Correa and Chick has his own unique style and Tateng needs to find his own style as well. Eddie K. reminded him that his theme, Jazz or Die, will not work for his family and to support them, he cannot be picky about projects to take, small or big.

“Go, attack, play music, build your

network!”

With that, Tateng Katindig started to play classical piano at age 7, then moved on to jazz.

In the US, his music has been appreciated for three years at Charlie O’s in Valley Glen, Calif. when he became Earl Palmer Trio’s pianist, frequented by these jazz royalties: Lou Rawls, Carl Saunders, the late great Teddy Edwards, Eloise Laws, Kevyn Lettau, Bill Henderson, David Pomeranz, and he stays busy with the smooth Jazz scene. He also played with Apl.de.ap, Martin Nievera, Ogie Alcasid and Dessa at the Hollywood Bowl. He teaches privately as part of the faculty of the California College of Music, where his teaching philosophy is “to develop each student at his own pace, and pushing them to step outside their boundaries, “ the same way he took that step outside of his comfort zone in the Philippines, to come to try his luck in the smooth jazz scene in the United States.

The Kapuso Primetime Queen also doesn’t want to compare their show with the other Sunday noontime shows.

They’ll be replacing “Sunday All Stars” and will be up against ABS-CBN’s “ASAP.” She just assured the public that the show has many things prepared for fans.

“Marami talaga kaming io-offer at kung makikita n’yo

sobrang fresh po ng cast namin na kasama,” Marian said.

Joining her in the show are Alden Richards, Julie Anne San Jose, Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola, Barbie Forteza, Valeen Montenegro, Joey Paras and Jorald Napoles.

Marian added that she’ll be part of the show as long as she can before she gives birth on September.

Features

B august 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

My Top 5 Best Dressed Women at the SONA 2015

Programming of Kababayan Today, August 3-7, 2015

The Global Kababayan G. Töngi

By Monet

August 3 - Joining us on Monday is Faith Duran who is a clinical nurse educator. She is also the president of the Silliman University Alumni Association of Southern CA. Together with Dr. Joel Gamo, asst. adjunct professor at UCLA School of Medicine, get to know the Silliman Alumni Association of Southern CA and the projects it does to give back to the community.

Get to know the candidates of this year’s Binibining Pilipinas USA! August 4 - Live Show with Immigration Attorneys Aquino & Loew, who will be taking your calls LIVE in Los Angeles!

August 5 - Midweek News Updates from Asian Journal, Mariella Angela Catindig Giovanni Ortega is Kababayan Today’s Art, Activism and Academia Correspondent. He recently returned from India and will share what he is up to on the show! Real Estate Buzz with Mia McLeod.

August 6 - DJ Rhettmatic will be visiting the show. DJ Rhettmatic is a producer, DJ and member and co-creator of Southern California’s first turntable band, the Beat Junkies. Rhettmatic began his DJ career in 1983, with Double Platinum, a DJ group based in Cerritos, CA. Also joining us is Oliver Wang, author of “Legions of Boom.”

Wang is an associate professor of sociology at California State University, Long Beach. He is a frequent contributor to NPR, KCET’s Artbound, KPCC’s Take Two and the Pop Rocket podcast.

August 7- Bernie Targa-Ganon, Assistant Executive Direc-

tor of FASGI and incoming President of the Philippine Institute of Langauage and Arts (PILAC), based in Southern California; and Al P.Garcia, National Coordinator of the Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV), will give us updates on the recent Filipino World War II veterans reunification measure.

General Tony Taguba will also be joining us for through Skype to tell us how to support the national campaign to secure the congressional gold medal for Filipino World War II veterans. *** Giselle “G” Töngi is the host and producer of Kababayan Today, a daily talk show that features relevant topics for Filipino’s living in America. Her aim is to bridge not only the cultural gap between America & the Philippines but to help with the generational gap between our own people. She is married with two children and is based in Southern California and makes frequent trips in the Pacific Rim to Hawaii and Manila to feature fellow kababayans who are empowering the FilAm community.

Advanced women’s healthcare with Dr. Sunaina Sehwani Dr. Sunaina Sehwani, FACOG, is a Board Certified physician who has been practicing in the field of Obstetrics & Gynecology since 2009.

She provides a full scope of obstetric and gynecologic care and is experienced in minimally invasive and Da Vinci robotic surgery.

She is very passionate about what she does and loves her profession.

Originally from the Philippines, Dr. Sehwani completed her medical studies and internship program at the University of Santo Tomas. She then completed her residency training at

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St.Luke’s hospital, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. After residency, she moved to Southern California and was part of a busy practice in Palm Springs for six years before recently moving to Long Beach.

Sunaina enjoys spending time outdoors, dining with friends and spending time with her dog, Lucky. She is very close to her family and loves to travel and participates in a medical mission annually as a way of giving back to the community. She is bilingual and speaks English and Filipino/Tagalog.

Call for an appointment: (562) 595-7709.

(Advertising Supplement) Dr. Sunaina Sehwani, FACOG

Bea Alonzo: Do I look like...

you’ve been hurt, does it give you the right to hurt back?

Bea weighed in, “For me, no.

What kind of relationship do you have, if nag-gagantihan kayong dalawa. You get hurt, but you shouldn’t hurt back. Because for me that pain should teach you to be a better person, and if you hurt that person the same way he hurt you, then you are no better from that person.”

“The Love Affair” features scenes wherein Bea is seen sailing with the character of Richard, who in real life, is a man of various sports, from fencing, volleyball to sailing, even representing the country in some international

competitions.

According to Bea, “This is really the most physically and emotionally challenging film that I’ve ever done because I’m not athletic, I’m not sporty. Sailing requires two things: You have to be alert, you have to be fit.”

The filming underwent hiccups because Bea suffered a few mishaps in the course of learning how to sail. During the 10-day training, the sailboat capsized twice. In the first instance, she landed on the steel portion of the boat that she had bruises and was rushed to the ER. The second time around, she hit her head and was brought again to the ER, “but I guess I’m really accident-prone

(laughs), because it didn’t happen to my companions.”

It was smooth sailing after, with Richard giving her good marks. “(Ten days of training) was more than enough, actually. One time I told her, you run the boat while I sleep,” Richard recalled.

Naturally, Bea couldn’t escape being asked if it was smooth sailing in the other aspects of her life. It was the actress herself who playfully told reporters to ask her pointblank on what they really wanted to know, although prior to the presscon, there were some requests to avoid asking personal questions amidst tabloid reports that Bea’s relationship

Lu

I am not really into the affairs of the Philippine government.

And it is not because I do not care, but my limited interest in politics and the redundant political scams in my country have rendered me indifferent.

However, my fashion expertise has found a place in some of the events of the government. Where might it be, you ask? Well, it is at the congressional “red carpet” a.k.a the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Join me as I round up my top 5 Best Dressed Women at the SONA 2015.

5. Senator Grace Po Placing 5th on my list is Senator Grace Poe’s terno that was created by Rajo Laurel. The yellow and black beading was just magnificent. As the creator described it, “it was hand-painted with a palay motif.” I tip my hat off to Rajo, because the dress is as “graceful” as the one who wore it.

4. Heart Evangelista-Escudero Heart Evangelista-Escudero is just the pinnacle of fashion highlights at every SONA. I still cannot get over her white cage-sleeved dress last year.

And now, she does it again in her Inno Sotto white featheredsleeved ensemble. Oh, be still, my heart.

3. Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez Lucy Torres-Gomez stole the show yet again with her breathtaking and immaculate persona.

Just looking at her and those intricate lace appliques on her pastel ternos will make any twohour speech bearable. All hail to its creator, Randy Ortiz.

2. Dawn Zulueta How can a dress look less than stellar when Dawn Zulueta is wearing it? This woman can wear a sack and still manage to look impeccable. And oh, those sleeves! If Heart Evangelista brought a “feather” up her sleeves, Dawn brought a giant ruffled rose. Designer Cary Santiago indeed knew an elegant white gown would stand out on Dawn Zulueta – and vise versa.

1. Kris Aquino Kris managed to shine even brighter without her usual sunshine-y yellow gown. An interesting yet great choice for the presidential sister looked who glowing in her powder blue Michael Leyva serpentine Filipiniana. With the right hairstyle and the perfect color, Kris Aquino tops my list.

Honorable Mentions And because I just love the sight of stunningly created with boyfriend of four years, Zanjoe Marudo, is in trouble.

“Do I look like I’m in pain and broken?” said a smiling Bea, borrowing a line from her character.

5. Senator Grace Po

4. Heart Evangelista-Escudero

1. Kris Aquino

3. Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez

2. Dawn Zulueta

gowns, let me commend three of my favorites that made it to my honorable-mention list. One would be Vice Mayor Jinkee Pacquiao in her really cute baby pink and green Francis Libiran gown. Then of course, Shalani Soledad-Romulo who stood out among a sea of nudes and pastels in her emerald Anthony Ramirez Filipiana. Another runaway hit was Tootsie Echauz-Angara’s Rajo Laurel creation that is a modern boxy, cropped top paired separately with a full pale dovegray skirt.

There you have it. My top 5 favorite SONA fashionista and

some honorable mentions. If only politics is as beautiful as these lovely ladies, I might be convinced to change careers. But then again, No thanks.

She admitted that they’re going through a rough patch, but, “I’m OK. We’re OK. Yes, we’re going through something (in our relationship). We all go through something in life... but

the most important thing is how you handle yourself after all of it is (over). So there, we’re working it out. We’re happy.

It’s your responsibility to be happy.”

*** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns.

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

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Features

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • august 1-4, 2015

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The Changing Faces of Filipina Americans In Los Angeles, where interracial marriages are prevalent, it is not surprising to see Filipinos embracing other races and ethnicities and further contributing to this melting pot. In this photo essay, the faces of multiracial and multiethnic Filipina Americans are captured. At first glance, these individuals do not adhere to society’s image of a ‘Filipina.’ Some have struggled early on with their identities, while others grew up in communities that accepted their diversity.

However, what they can share is that there is no standard definition of what it means to be a Filipina American.

1. Aiyana Fraser, 8 Black and Filipino Leny Mercado, a FilipinoAmerican mother of two children who are half Filipino and half Black, sees her kids as Americans first.

“Since they were born here they should be called Americans so it’s just a labeling thing. In terms of culture, I want to raise them in Filipino culture as well as Caribbean,” Mercado said.

Her daughter, Aiyana Fraser, shown above is eight years old.

2. Christina Moffitino, 24 Italian and Filipino Growing up in San Diego, Christina Moffitino couldn’t understand why people never guessed she was half-Filipino.

“People are automatically going to judge based off of appearances,” Moffitino said.

They think because they see my hair I’m Latina or because I’m in Southern California that I’m some kind of Latina. People never guess I’m Filipino.”

At a young age, Moffitino recalls a Seafood City store clerk being very rude to her. It wasn’t until Moffitino came up to the counter with her mom when the lady’s tone changed.

“I didn’t know she was Filipino,” the clerk said.

Since then, Moffitino has been lucky, she has not experienced much prejudice.

“I’m a good case in point of being an American kid these days trying to find who they are, but keeping a part of their culture in them,” Moffitino said.

3. Tessie Navarro, 24 Mexican and Filipino As a Filipino and Mexican American growing up in Los Angeles, Tessie Navarro was often called “China,” which means

Chinese in Spanish, by the Mexican side of her family.

To them, she was only seen as Asian.

“When I was younger, I gravitated towards the Filipino group because I always felt more accepted by them. It wasn’t like when I was with Mexicans,” Navarro said. “It was constantly pointed out to me. ‘You’re different. You’re not like a full Mexican.’ I think I actually had my cousins tell me that once. ‘You’re not like a real Mexican.’”

It wasn’t until college when Navarro took an Asian American studies class that she realized she could identify as both.

When asked, Navarro says she still culturally identifies more with her Mexican side, but at the end of the day she sees herself as “Mexapina” -- half Mexican, half Filipina.

4. Maria Hubbard, 24 White and Filipino Growing up with a Filipino mother and white father, Maria Hubbard never struggled with her multiracial identity.

“I think I wanted to be more white because I didn’t identify with the Filipino part. I don’t even speak Tagalog” Hubbard said.

5. Jann Budiman, 23 Indonesian, Chinese, Filipino Jann Budiman feels very honored when people ask her what her ethnicity is.

To others it may seem annoying, but Budiman is excited when people seem interested in learning a bit about her culture.

She has never experienced any prejudice despite her multiethnic background.

When asked, she identifies

more with her Indonesian-Chinese side because she was more exposed to the culture.

6. Aquilina Soriano German, Japanese and Filipino “I look more Filipino, I don’t look as German. I don’t look as Japanese,” Aquilina Soriano said.

It wasn’t until she was 20 years old when Soriano learned Tagalog.

“A lot of my identity now is around the Filipino community because I have been able to go back to the Philippines, I have been able to really delve into the community here, but I definitely am embracing my mixed heritage” Soriano said.

She is currently the executive director at Pilipino Workers Center of Southern California.

7. Farzana Nayani, 37 Pakistani and Filipino There was a knock at the

door.

Farzana Nayani and her mother open the door to see a Filipino deliveryman. They started to speaking Tagalog to him. He did a double take.

“That’s my daughter” Nayani’s mother said.

He did a triple take. He couldn’t believe the Nayani was Filipino.

“When someone wants to measure how Filipino I am they will ask me ‘Farzana, have you been there? Do you speak the language? Do you like the food?

Can you cook the food?’” Nayani said. “We have to remember a person is a person and it can be difficult to answer those questions all the time.”

She is currently an advisory board member at the Multiracial Americans of Southern California (MASC) and programs and membership director of the Asian Business Association of

Los Angeles.

8. Carlene Bonnivier, 75 White and Filipino Carlene Bonnivier has blue eyes, brown hair and fair skin.

Few people would guess correctly, but she is also half-Filipino.

“I think it is still true that people will judge you quickly by your appearance,” Bonnivier said. “In this way, I was very lucky because people assumed I was ‘normal.’ If the kids are dark, they are going to experience a different kind of America.

If they have an accent, they are going to experience a different America. I didn’t really know what I was.”

Bonnivier’s father passed away before she was born, so she never was exposed to her white side of the family.

She decided she either belonged nowhere or everywhere.

Bonnivier decided everywhere.

“I get to understand things. I

am not scared of things people who grow up in just one culture are scared of,” Bonnivier said.

“There are very few circumstances where I feel like, ‘Oh my god, this is new.’ Everything was new. I got the experience of understanding people who would otherwise be scary. It made me a writer.”

Photos and words by Loren Townsley, a recent graduate from California State University, Northridge with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and Asian American studies. This past summer, Loren was an intern for the Asian Journal, researching various topics within the Filipino-American community.

Special thanks to Aquilina Soriano and the Pilipino Workers Center for helping locate subjects for this photo essay and opening up their facility as a photo studio.

B august 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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COMMUNITY Journal

Your Immigration Solution Atty. Robert Reeves May Zhang & Diza & Nancy E. Miller IS it still possible to live and work legally in the US after lying to get here? The answer is maybe. Waivers (forgiveness) for the misrepresentation are possible but they are not easy to get.

Willfully misrepresenting a material fact in order to obtain an immigration benefit makes one either inadmissible or deportable or both. Willful means that the misrepresentation is deliberate and voluntary. A material fact is one that would make the alien inadmissible or shut off a line of inquiry which may have resulted in not being admitted. Common examples are using a false name because you were previously denied a visa or misrepresenting your marital status in order to hide the fact that you are not eligible for a green card (claiming to be single when you are actually the married son or daughter of a green card holder).

All hope is not lost for those who have told untruths to get what they want. It is possible to obtain a waiver for the misrepresentation.

In order to qualify for a waiver that will allow the alien to get a green card, she must have a spouse or parent who is a United States citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Having a United States citizen or a green card holding child will not give you the relationship you need for the waiver.

Once you have proven that you have the necessary relationship, you must further show that the qualifying relative would suffer extreme hardship if the waiver were denied. Various factors are considered to reach the determination that extreme hardship exists. They include: the age of the alien, both at the time of entry and at the time of the application for relief, family ties in the United States and abroad, length of residence in this country, the health of

Living legally in the US after a material misrepresentation the alien and qualifying family members, the political and economic conditions in the country of return, the possibility of other means of obtaining lawful status in the United States, the alien=s involvement and position in his or her community, and his or her immigration history. The alien must also show remorse and that s/he is entitled to a favorable exercise of discretion.

Having good facts are your side is not enough. Effective presentation of the case is essential to a successful result.

Another section of law applies to those aliens who already obtained lawful status in the United States. That section states that any alien who at the time of entry or adjustment of status was within one or more of the classes of aliens inadmissible by the law existing at such time is deportable. Since misrepresenting a material fact at the time of entry is a ground of inadmissibility, the government can try to make you leave even after they have let you in. In order to do that, they issue a Notice to Appear in Immigration Court. Once in those proceedings, the alien can apply for a waiver.

The waiver for this type of misrepresentation is available to aliens who are the spouse, parent, son or daughter of a citizen of the United States or of an alien lawfully admitted for perma-

nent residence. The alien must show that the positive factors in his case outweigh the negative ones. Among the negative factors are the “nature and underlying circumstances of the fraud or misrepresentation involved; the nature and seriousness, and recency of any criminal record (even those matters that did not result in a conviction); and any additional evidence of the alien’s bad character or undesirability as a lawful permanent resident of the United States”. Positive factors to be considered may include “family ties in the United States; residence of a long duration in this country, particularly where it commenced when the alien was young; evidence of hardship to the alien or her family if deportation occurs; a stable employment history; the existence of property or business ties; evidence of value and service to the community; and other evidence of the alien’s good character”. Evidence of the positive factors must be carefully presented to the court through documentation and testimony.

In addition, the negative factors must be thoroughly dealt with and explained.

Being granted a waiver can mean the difference between living in the United States and having to leave. Because so much is at stake, aliens in this situation should seek the advice

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C AUGUST 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Minding Your Finances Atty. Raymond Bulaon ARE you sick and tired of being in debt and having bad credit? Do you want to start over but simply don’t know where to begin? Is filing bankruptcy an option for you or are other options available? As we go past the middle of this year, this is a good time to look at your finances and see how you can leave your debt problems behind and have a better year for yourself and your family.

I find that a lot of people are mostly concerned about the effects of bankruptcy on their credit more than anything else. Most are under the mistaken belief that once they file for bankruptcy, their credit is ruined forever and that they will never be able to buy a house or obtain credit again. Of course, this is simply not true. Let me explain.

Yes, bankruptcy is reported on your credit record for 7-10 years depending on the type of bankruptcy you are filing but a lot of people quickly bounce back from bankruptcy in as little as 2-3

Problem Solved Atty. Kelly O’Reilly AMNESTY, executive orders, federal lawsuits, injunctions are words that have been tossed around frequently this year in regards to immigration. For many immigrants, much of the information is overwhelming. It seems like President Obama’s executive actions to aid unlawful immigrants have been met with strong opposition. Popular items such as extending Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (NEW DACA) and Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA) have been halted by the Federal Court. Despite these lawsuits, good news was revealed last week by USCIS as they are proceeding with the expansion of the I-601A provisional waiver.

On March 4, 2013, the unlawful presence provisional waiver procedure took effect. Tradition-

Community Journal

Get out of debt before this year is over

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Tax Tips

Victor Sy, CPA, MBA and years. I also find that most people credit has suffered as a result, it Arlene Al-os, who are in debt trouble already may be better for you to just file CPA, MBA have bad credit anyway and filing bankruptcy, if anything, can only help them rebuild their credit in the long run. Yes, in most cases that I see, bankruptcy can actually improve credit by allowing the person a chance to start over after wiping out debts.

What most people don’t understand is that creditors look at several factors when evaluating a credit application and that whether or not a bankruptcy shows up on your report is only one of those factors.

For example, when buying a home, banks are not as concerned about it if your bankruptcy is at least 3 years old and all other credit characteristics are appropriate (good character, stable employment, amount of down payment, etc.). And if you are buying a car after bankruptcy, this is usually not a problem although in the beginning, you will obviously pay a higher interest rate or may even need a cosignor until such time you prove creditworthiness.

If you are in debt and your

bankruptcy and start over. Rebuilding your credit after bankruptcy is not as hard as you think and this is often a better strategy than not paying your bills and letting your credit continue to get worse every single month as you are reported to the credit bureaus by your creditors.

If you’ve been struggling with debt for a while now and nothing has changed, when are you going to get so sick and tired of your debt problems to finally do something about it? For a free attorney consultation regarding how you can get out of debt with or without filing for bankruptcy, call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772 to schedule an appointment. We have offices in Pasadena, Valencia and Cerritos. ***

THERE are three basic types of IRS audits: correspondence, office, and field examinations. Today’s topics are correspondence audits, the simplest of the three.

Here are 10 tips for you: 1. Respond promptly. You have 30 days to call or write back.

2. If you cannot, request for an extension of time in writing before the expiration of that 30-day period.

3. Read the exam notice, the list of items that are being examined, and the info document request (IDR).

4. Gather documentation. Create folders for each issue & place checks & invoices inside each folder.

5. Be organized. This is a time when you need to be orderly in None of the information herein is in- gathering and filing. Remember, tended to give legal advice for any specific you will not be there to explain situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully when the agent goes through helped thousands of clients in getting out of your stuff. It is therefore critical debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your that the documents be filed in an situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices orderly fashion to facilitate the at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772. audit.

(Advertising Supplement) 6. Be convincing and persua-

You may now qualify for the provisional I-601A waiver ally, immigrants that were unable to adjust status in the United States must leave the United States to consular process their immigrant visas with a waiver for their unlawful presence. However, many immigrants were wary of the risks. If the waiver failed at the US consulate, they would be unable to return to the United States and reunite with their wife and children. The waiver procedure, known as the I-601A provisional waiver, aimed to relieve such dilemma. It allows for immigrants, physically present in the United States, to file for a provisional waiver in the United States. If the provisional waiver is approved, then the immigrant would proceed with normal consular processing without having to risk denial of the waiver abroad. The provisional waiver will dramatically reduce the risk of leaving the United States to obtain an immigrant visa.

On November 20, 2014, President Obama announced a series

of executive orders aimed to fix our broken immigration system.

Among one of the orders was to expand the I-601A provisional waiver. Currently, a provisional waiver is only available to applicants with an immediate relative petition and with a US citizen qualifying relative. Practically, it only benefited a spouse of a US citizen, a child of a US citizen over the age of 18, but under 21 who has accrued unlawful presence, or in limited cases, an applicant with a 21 year-old (or older) US citizen son or daughter and a US citizen parent. But what about those that are petitioned by permanent residents?

What about those that only have a permanent resident spouse or parent as a qualifying relative?

The new initiative aims to provide relief for those that were not covered.

On July 15, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security issued a draft of the proposed

American Dream Allison Aquino-Silva, Esq

THE USCIS recently issued a policy memorandum that eases the work requirements that a Religious Worker must fulfill in order to be eligible for a green card as a Special Immigrant Religious Worker. The shift in the USCIS’ interpretation of the law may now allow more individuals who are performing religious work to qualify for permanent residency.

There are special immigrant visas given to religious workers who seek to enter the United States or adjust status to that of a permanent resident in order to perform religious activities.

The special category of visas is known as the Special Immigrant Religious Worker category.

To qualify as a Special Immigrant Religious Worker, the following requirements must be fulfilled: 1) The petitioner must be a u PAGE C3

10 tips to handle an IRS correspondence audit sive in your first response. Make it your last response. You do not want a second request or a telephone call that could elicit more audit questions and prolong your agony.

7. Address each issue separately. Back it up with logical explanations and supporting documents.

8. Provide schedules to reconcile differences of unreported income and questioned deductions.

9. Include a copy of the immediately preceding notice to help the IRS personnel match your response with your case files.

10. Send by certified mail with return receipt, especially when responding on the 30th day (some folks find it more exciting to wait for the last minute).

If the audit does not go your way and problems start to unravel, consider getting help from a tax pro for damage control. You probably should have done this in the first place. Remember that a tax practitioner can help you sidestep landmines and save you enough tax, penalties, and interests to pay for his/her fees.

Good luck!

***

Sy Al-os Accountancy Corporation provides accounting and tax services to individuals, corporations, LLCs and business entities.

The Firm has a niche in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS and other governmental agencies. The firm celebrates its 38th anniversary in 2015. *** Victor Santos Sy graduated Cum Laude from UE with a BBA and from Indiana State University with an MBA. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV - Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation in 704 Mira Monte Place, Pasadena, CA 91101. He has 50 years of experience in accounting, consulting, and tax work. *** The Firm proudly welcomes Arlene Al-os in 2015. She obtained her bachelors of Science in Accountancy from Mindanao State University and MBA from Ateneo de Manila University. She teaches intermediate accounting at UCLA and was a professor of Economics at Asia Pacific College. She has over 15 years of experience including member firms of KPMG and BDO Seidman accounting firms. *** Our readers may call (626) 744-0200 or email tax questions to info@victorsycpa.com. Please visit our website for about 300 tax tips at www. victorsycpa.com.

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DHS eases requirements for religious workers bona fide religious organization.

The organization petitioning the religious worker must have a recognized creed, form of worship, and established place of worship.

Additionally, the organization must be legitimate and bona fide.

Lastly, the organization must be incorporated and either have tax-exempt status or qualify as a nonprofit organization.

2) The applicant must have an offer of employment by a US religious organization to work in “a religious vocation or occupation.”

A religious occupation is one that relates to a traditional religious function, such as religious instructors, liturgical workers, cantors, and catechists. A minister is a person who is authorized to conduct religious worship, such as priests, pastors, and rabbis. A professional is one where the religious position requires at least a bachelor’s degree and where the individual has that degree. A nonprofessional is one wherein a bachelor’s degree is not re-

quired.

3) The immigrant must be working in a full-time religious vocation or occupation continuously for at least 2 years before applying for a visa. This requirement may be fulfilled through religious work either in a foreign country or in the United States.

Although the qualifying employment may be compensated or voluntary, the burden is on the individual to prove that he/she has been employed on a full-time (at least 35 hours per week) basis in a religious vocation or occupation.

The recent policy change involves the last requirement of 2 years of continuous full-time work as a religious worker immediately prior to the submission of the visa petition. Previously, the USCIS interpreted the law to require that if the religious work is performed in the United States, that the work must have been lawful and authorized by

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Community Journal

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Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe Sayas, Jr. PATRICIA Hancock was a warehouse worker for Time Warner Cable for 8 years in its Bellflower facility. Part of her job was to pull heavy pallets of cable boxes. In August 2011, she injured her neck and reported it to her supervisor. According to Hancock, the supervisor responded “OK” without looking up from his computer. She continued to work and finish her shift that day. When she came home, she drank a prescription painkiller, which was leftover from a previous prescription related to a prior surgery that she had undergone.

The next day, Hancock called her supervisor to request sick leave to recover from her neck injuries. Instead of granting the leave, her supervisor ordered her to report to work for a drug test. With the painkiller medication running through her system, Hancock allowed herself to be drug-tested. When the employer received the results, the supervisor told the company’s human resources manager that Hancock tested positive for illegal drugs, which was a violation of company policy. Hancock was fired a few days after she reported her disability. She was then 59 years old.

Hancock sued Time Warner for wrongful termination, particularly for failure to reasonably accommodate disability and failure to engage in the interactive process with a disabled employee.

In California, an employer is generally obligated to provide a reasonable accommodation to disabled employees. In order to find out what reasonable accommodation can be extended

Accommodating injured employees at work Employer’s failure may be disability discrimination to the employee, the employer must enter into a good-faith, interactive process to determine if there is a reasonable accommodation that would allow the employee to keep working.

The law provides some guidelines in what constitutes as an “interactive process” between the employer and the disabled employee. These include consulting with the employee to find out what the employee’s limitations are that prevent him or her from doing the job, finding out how the employee could do their job with a reasonable accommodation, and identifying potential accommodations and assessing their effectiveness.

The employer must enter into the interactive process in “good faith.” This means that both employer and employee must communicate directly with each other and provide important information related to the disability. Neither party can delay or interfere with the process. To demonstrate good-faith in the interactive process, the employer should show cooperation by identifying and carrying out an appropriate accommodation for the disabled employee. An employer’s failure to engage in the interactive process in good faith is itself a violation of California law.

In the case against Time Warner, there was little evidence to show that the employer engaged Hancock in an interactive process to find out her physical limitations, and whether she could continue to perform her job. Instead, as Hancock argued, the employer found a pretextual reason for firing her instead.

Hancock’s case was tried be-

DIVORCING couples with children sometimes worry about who is going to pay for their children’s college education after the divorce once their children graduates high school.

They want a guarantee that their soon to be ex-spouse will share in the college expenses of their children. This is specially the case when the other spouse has moved on with a new family.

The old family becomes less of a priority.

In California, there is no legal basis for a spouse to request the family court to order the other spouse to pay for their adult children’s college expenses.

However, the divorcing couple can agree to pay for their adult children’s college education as part of a marital settlement agreement. Family Code section 3587; In re Marriage of Rosenfeld and Gross, 225 Cal. App. 4th 478 (2014). Pursuant to statute and court cases, college expense payment provision in a stipulated marital settlement agreement, as incorporated into *** a Court’s judgment, constitutes The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes adult child support such that inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are court had jurisdiction to modify confidential and at no-cost. Atty. Sayas’ Law the provision in light of the setOffice is located at 500 N. Brand Blvd. Suite 980, Glendale, CA 91203. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www. joesayaslaw.com. *** C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is trial attorney who has obtained several million dollar recoveries for his clients against employers and insurance companies. He has been selected as a Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, featured in the cover of Los Angeles Daily Journal’s Verdicts and Settlements, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum.

(Advertising Supplement)

Dear Attorney Tan, I AM a Filipino who is presently in the US under an H1B visa, working as a bookkeeper/accountant. The employer for whom I am working has indicated that it would like to retain me as a permanent worker. My understanding is that if my employer were to petition me, there would be a wait time of approximately 11 years before I could get a green card. I have a previously approved I-140 petition under the 3rd Preference (Skilled Worker) category that was filed by another company on my behalf, which has a priority date of January 2001. I did not get a green card based on that previously approved I-140 petition since the company closed. If my current employer does petition me, will I have to wait over 11 years before I can get a green card? S.S.K. Dear S.S.K. Under 8 CFR Sec. 204.5(e), the priority date for an approved I-140 employment-based petition in the 1st through 3rd Preference categories can generally be used for any subsequently filed I-140 petition in any of those categories. The only exception to this would be if the previously-approved I-140 petition was revoked due to fraud or misrepresentation. If the previously-approved I140 petition was not revoked due to fraud or misrepresentation, the priority date can be used for your current employer’s I-140 petition.

For Filipinos, retention of the priority date under 204.5(e) can come into play for persons such as yourself. The retention of the priority date of a previously-approved petition benefits those: 1) who are now seeking a green card via an I-140 petition in the 3rd Preference (Skilled Worker) category, AND 2) who have a previously-approved I-140, but did not obtain a green card though that previous I-140 for one reason or another. Under Section 204.5(e), the priority date for the previously-approved I-140 petition can be used for any subsequent employment-based green card case, even if the new petition is with a different employer or a different job.

In your case, you have an approved I-140 through a previous company, but did not obtain a green card because the business closed. The priority date on that previously-approved I-140 is January 2001. If, in August 2015, your current H1B employer begins the process of petitioning you for a green card in the 3rd Preference (Skilled Worker) category, you would have a priority date no sooner than August 2015. You normally would have to wait until your priority date becomes current, which would take approximately 11 years (as of August 2015, the current priority date for petitions in the 3rd preference category is June 2004, which means only persons who have a priority date of June 2004 or earlier can presently obtain a green card). However, under 204.5(e), you can retain the January 2001 priority date of the previous I-140 petition, and use it on the new I-140 petition filed by your current employer. Since the priority date of your previous I-140 petition (i.e. January 2001) is earlier than the current priority date (i.e. June 2004), you will not have to wait over 11 years to get your green card.

It is also worth noting that for those who have an employer willing to petition him/her for a green card, but do not have a previously-approved petition from which he/she can retain the priority date, the possibility of being petitioned under the 2nd Preference (Advanced Degree) category should be explored. For 2nd Preference employed-based petitions, there is currently no wait time. It is accordingly advised that you consult with an experienced attorney if you have an employer who is willing to petition you. *** Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philippine American Bar Association.

LAW OFFICES OF DARRICK V. TAN, 3580 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Tel: (323) 639-0277. Email: info@dtanlaw. com.

(Advertising Supplement)

You may now qualify for the provisional…

changes pursuant to President Obama’s executive orders. The proposed changed would expand the I-601A provisional waiver to cover immigrants in all immigrant visa categories such as familysponsored immigrants, employment-based immigrants among others. Additionally, the qualifying relative has been extended from only US citizen spouse and parents to lawful permanent resident spouses and parents. The proposed expansion will permit any immigrant seeking an immigrant visa who would be eligible for an I-601 waiver of unlawful presence abroad to now apply for a provisional waiver BEFORE leaving the US to attend to his or her immigrant visa interview.

These changes are a step towards the right direction in providing relief for many people currently living in the United States unlawfully. The proposed changes are currently under review and are not applicable until

a final rule is issued. However, it should give people hope.

This expansion could be the difference between devastating family separation and family unity. At Wilner & O’Reilly, we have helped thousands of people and families stay together. Unfortunately, we still see many deserving individuals left without relief who can benefit from reform. This minor, but important change may apply to you. Take advantage and know if you qualify. Schedule your free consulta-

tion today.

***

Kelly S. O’Reilly is a nationally known immigration expert and former immigration officer. He is a highly sought after speaker on immigration and employment compliance issues. Mr. O’Reilly serves as the current chair of the Riverside County Bar Association Immigration section and is a partner in the full-service immigration firm of the Wilner & O’Reilly where he provides free consultations.

Mr. O’Reilly can be contacted at (714) 9198880 and he welcomes email inquiries at kelly@wilneroreilly.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Living legally in the US after…

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and representation of an immigration attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in waiver cases. *** Atty. Reeves has represented clients in numerous landmark immigration cases that have set new policies regarding INS action and immigrants’ rights. His offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas

Atty. Kenneth Ursua Reyes

fore a jury. After listening to both sides, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the employee, awarding her $692,545 in compensatory damages (including $89,267 in lost income, and $53,279 in future lost income). And perhaps, to show to the employer the gravity of the violation, the jury awarded the employee over $2 million in punitive damages. The employer has formally asked the court to overturn the verdict and set a new trial.

There are employers, both large and small, who continue to remain ignorant of their duties and responsibilities towards injured and disabled employees. If injured/disabled employees find themselves in a situation where their immediate supervisors or managers fail or refuse to engage them in an interactive process to find reasonable accommodation for their medical condition or disability, they would be smart to consult with an experienced employment attorney to protect themselves.

Retention of priority date of old employmentbased I-140 petition cuts wait time for green card

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Barrister’s Corner

and Makati City.

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

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To Live With Faith Reverend Rodel G. Balagtas “I’VE got to keep a positive attitude,” I told a group of lay leaders during a meeting last week.

As people continually struggle to keep their jobs and maintain their households while being asked to share their limited blessings with others and their Church, I am tempted to feel discouraged in my prophetic mission of challenging people to give more of the resources they have.

“Five loaves and two fish are all we have!” would be the symbolic response that others may bring to a stewardship meeting. But deep in a corner of my heart is still a flicker of hope that we could still gather more blessings, although they come slowly, often in small

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

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Can a divorcing couple agree to pay for their adult children’s college expenses in their divorce judgment? tlement’s failure to specifically provide that adult child support was not subject to modification.

In re Marriage of Rosenfeld and Gross, 225 Cal. App. 4th at 488 (2014). Providing for payment of adult children’s college expenses is recognized more of an “add on” to adult child support.

Family Code 4062(b)(1).

However, the parties may “opt out” or restrict the court’s jurisdiction to modify an adult child support order (including college expenses) but the parties must expressly and specifically state in their marital settlement agreement that any resulting adult child support order will not be subject to modification or termination by the Court because the adult child support order is rooted in the parent’s contractual agreement. Cal. Family Code Section 3587, 3651(a).

So if you are concerned about your spouse sharing for the college tuition and expenses of your children after the divorce, you should negotiate a provision in your marital agreement that both of you will share on the college tuition and expenses of your children. In doing so, you should also think about whether you want this provision to be non-modifiable or not. In the

absence of a specific provision limiting adult child support as non-modifiable and non-terminable, the default is that child support is modifiable. Sometimes, leaving the adult child support provision as modifiable protects the spouses from unforeseen future events such as a disability or retirement which limits the earning capacity of a spouse and ability to comply with the adult child support provision in the MSA. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com.

*** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.

This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation.

(Advertising Supplement)

Loaves and fishes: Transformed minds and enlightened hearts amounts. But in due time with God’s providence, a miracle will happen. Like the disciples in the Feeding of the Five Thousand, we’ll be astounded by what God can do with our “five loaves and two fish”.

“Somewhere in the mystery of God is an unlimited bounty, whether it makes sense to us or not,” Father John Kavanaugh, S.J., writes in his reflection on the Gospel this Sunday in The Word Embodied. “In the Kingdom there is never scarcity or lack of power to respond to others but always the superabundance of God’s nourishing and satisfying presence among and within us,” the authors of Living Liturgy comment. Both reflections have lifted my spirit of hopefulness. Yes, we could do it. Yes, we can make it happen. Yes, we will never run out

of grace...if only our hearts are changed and our minds are enlightened.

Perhaps the “five loaves and two fish” that we can bring to Jesus are our transformed hearts and enlightened minds.

With these gifts Jesus can make a miracle out of scarcity of the present time. And so, we should never feel dismayed about our prophetic role. We must continue to preach the Gospel of Christ, touching people’s hearts and illuminating their minds to be more loving, kind, generous and just.

People who are changed and enlightened by the Spirit of the Gospel can only realize the Kingdom of God. Governments and world organizations can provide decent living conditions to citizens through the values of love,

u PAGE C5

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Debt Relief ATTY. LAWRENCE YANG ARTICLE I, Section 8, of the United States Constitution authorizes Congress to enact “uniform Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies.” Under this grant of authority, Congress enacted the “Bankruptcy Code” in 1978 and 2005. The new Bankruptcy Code, which is codified as title 11 of the United States Code, has been amended several times since its enactment. It is the uniform federal law that governs all bankruptcy cases.

The Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure (Bankruptcy Rules) and Local Rules govern the procedural aspects of the bankruptcy process of each bankruptcy court.

The Bankruptcy Rules contain a set of official forms for use in bankruptcy cases. The Bankruptcy Code and Bankruptcy Rules (and local rules) set forth the formal legal procedures for dealing with the debt problems of individuals and businesses.

There is a bankruptcy court for each judicial district in the country. Each state has one or more districts. There are 90 bankruptcy districts across the country. The bankruptcy courts generally have their own clerk’s offices.

The court official with decisionmaking power over federal bankruptcy cases is the United States bankruptcy Judge, a judicial officer of the United States district court. The judge is different from the bankruptcy trustee who is responsible for administering the bankruptcy estate. The bankruptcy judge may decide any matter connected with a bankruptcy case, such as eligibility to file or whether a debtor should receive a discharge of debts. Much of the bankruptcy process is administrative, however, and is conducted away from the courthouse. In case of conflict between the debtor and the trustee or creditors, the parties have to bring the matter to the judge for resolution by way of an adversarial proceeding, which requires a trial, or by motion which requires a hearing before the judge. Normally, the debtor only appears at the “341 meeting” which is held at the office of the U.S. trustee and conducted by the Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 trustee.

Creditors can question the debtor about debts and property at this meeting.

:FDDLE@KP AFLIE8C

US Constitution guarantees right to bankruptcy for fresh start in life without pre-existing debt Wildly succesful people who sought fresh start with bankruptcy

Wildly succesful people who filed bankruptcy for fresh start: Disney, Hershey and Walton (Walmart) The fundamental goal of the federal bankruptcy laws enacted

by Congress is to give debtors a financial “fresh start” from burdensome debts. The Supreme Court made this point about the purpose of the bankruptcy law in a 1934 decision: …”It gives to the honest but unfortunate debtor… a new opportunity in life and a clear field for future effort, unhampered by the pressure and discouragement of preexisting debt.” Local Loan Co. v. Hunt, 291 U.S. 234, 244(1934). This case was decided probably way before you were born. Many famous people have filed for bankruptcy to get a fresh start in life. For instance, Walt Disney’s first venture failed causing him to seek bankruptcy relief.

But after he got his discharge, Mr. Disney went on to found Disneyland, which celebrates its 60th anniversary now as a multi billion worldwide enterprise. I don’t think Mr. Disney would have been able to find success if he was saddled with burdensome preexisting debt. He got his “fresh start” and was given a news opportunity in life and a clear field for future effort, unhampered by the pressure and discouragement of pre-existing debt. Another spectacular example of the bankruptcy fresh start is Mr. Milton Hershey, owner of Hershey Chocolates, probably the biggest worldwide chocolate enterprise, now doing billions of business worldwide. He also sought a new opportunity in life unburdened by preexisting debt before he became successful. Mr. Sam Walton, owner of Wal-Mart and the largest retailer in the world has also filed for bankruptcy before he became successful with his Wal-Mart stores. Believe it or not, President Thomas Jefferson filed for bankruptcy not once, but several times.

The fresh start goal is accomplished through the bankruptcy discharge, which releases debtors from personal liability from specific debts and prohibits creditors from ever taking any action against the debtor to collect those debts. However, not all debts are discharged. For instance, debts

obtained through fraud are not dischargeable. The bankruptcy code provides which debts are not dischargeable.

Chapter 7 is entitled liquidation, contemplates an orderly, court supervised procedure why which a trustee takes over the assets of the debtor’s estate, reduces them to cash, and makes distributions to creditors, subject to the debtor’s right to retain certain exempt property and the rights of secured creditors. Because there is usually little or no nonexempt property in most chapter 7 cases, there may not be an actual liquidation of the debtor’s assets.

Experienced bankruptcy lawyers have the expertise to exempt most if not all of your assets, so that you end up keeping most if not all of your assets without any of your pre-existing debts. You can keep your assets, retirement accounts, house and cars, which you need for the fresh start. Cases with no non-exempt property are called “no asset” cases. The debtor normally receives a discharge just a few months after the petition is filed. A “means test” is required to determine whether individual consumer debtors qualify for relief under chapter 7.

If you need a fresh start in life without pre-existing debts, please contact my office for an appointment. I don’t think you have anything to be ashamed of, just ask Mr. Disney, Mr. Hershey, Mr. Walton or Pres. Jefferson. You can look forward to being more productive without the burden of old debt, proven by Disneyland, Hershey’s Chocolates, and Wal-Mart. In fact, Mr. Trump’s businesses have reorganized and gotten rid of pre-existing debt through Chapter 11 bankruptcy several times. I will interview you personally.

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” – Proverbs: 8:10. ! ! !

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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

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Location: Silver Lake Medical Center (1711 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026) Contact: Cecile Ramos at (213) 413-3323

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>f[ K_\ =Xk_\i =\Xjk ;Xp The Spiritual Army of God the Father cordially invites you to attend the GOD THE FATHER FEAST DAY on Sunday, August 2nd at two locations: (1) The Monastery of the Angels Cloistered Dominican Nuns (1977 Carmen Avenue on Gower / Los Angeles, CA 90068). Mass celebration and 8thday Octave Consecration Prayers starts at 11:30 am; (2) St. Bridget Catholic Church (220 N. 14th Street / Las Vegas, NV 89101). Mass and 8thday Octave Consecration Prayers starts at 11:00 am. This is a chance for us to adore, honor, love and ask God to help us survive and be guided through these trying times. The Spiritual Army of God the Father is a community of believers devoted to proclaiming the good news of GOD THE FATHER’S love, sharing and charity through prayers and worship, outreach ministries, missions and spiritual devotions, supporting the mission statement of the Roman Catholic Church. For additional information, please visit www.spiritualarmyofgod.org or call: Evelyn Pua (702) 2744315; Mila Lumba (702) 580-9625; Maria Sheets (323) 868-3054.

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Jk% =iXeZ`j :_`c[i\eËj =le[ (,k_ 8ee`m\ijXip ;`ee\i 8lZk`fe Join us for a night of great food, dancing, fellowship, and answering to God’s call of helping poor children and victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. This special fundraising dinner dance and silent auction will take place on Saturday, August 8th at Griffith Park Visitor Center Auditorium (4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA) from 6 to 10:30pm. For reservations, please call 818-748-7361 or 818-627-3720.

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=`\jkX `e 8d\i`ZX Now on its 17th year, Fiesta in America (FIA) presents trade & cultural show and food festival on Aug. 15 & 16 at Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, NJ. The concert segment features Philippine-based singer-actress Vina Morales and TV personalities Edgar Allan Guzman and Maxene Magalona. On opening day on Saturday, Aug. 15, senior citizens (62 years and above) and children (below 6 years) can enter the expo free of charge between 12 noon and 1pm and can take a free health screening inside. Free seminars on various topics are scheduled. General admission: $25; Seniors $18. To sponsor, exhibit, advertise or attend, call 212.682.6610 or email info@fiestainamerica.com.

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GNL88J: Jldd\i G`Ze`Z The Philippine Women’s University Alumni Association of Southern California invites alumni, family and friends to its picnic Sunday, August 16 from 10 am to 5 pm, at Cabrillo Beach (3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro, CA 90731). Philwomenians continue to give back to their Alma Mater by contributing annually towards the Final Boost Scholarship Program. To date, PWUAASC has had nine scholars at the PWU, Manila. For directions, call (310) 548-2909. Limited street parking is free for early arrivals, and beach parking $9 maximum all day. Varied activities including swimming, fishing, biking, and a play area for kids. Bring your favorite dishes or desserts to add to PWUAASC’S picnic treat. Prizes await game winners. To RSVP, contact Tessie Go-Hoey at (310) 569-1670, Email:tessiegohoey@yahoo.com, or Exal Igidbashian at (562) 447-9783,

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DJ<L= 8clde` ?fd\Zfd`e^ I\le`fe Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation of Lucena City, Philippines to be hosted by MSEUF Alumni Association of California. Announcement to all MSEUF (formerly known as Luzonian University Foundation) Alumni of our Grand Reunion to be held on August 20-22, 2015 at the Gold Coast Resort Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada (4000 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas). Tickets are $80.00/person, including Bowling and the reunion Dinner/ Dance. For additional information and inquiries, please contact the following: Nonato Palomar (818) 209-6881 nonatop@sbcglobal.net; Mercy G. Bruno (310) 686-1421 mercygbruno@ gmail.com; Malou Almadrones (213) 531-7824 marylou616@yahoo.com; and Butch Villarama (916) 600-8472 r.villaram@comcast.net.

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*'k_ Efik_i`[^\ @em`kXk`feXc KflieXd\ek E@K n Student Association is set to host their annual 30th Northridge Invitational Tournament (NIT), one of the most competitive Filipino American sports tournaments in Southern California from August 21-23 at CSUN campus, with over sixty teams and 700 athletes in attendance. The 3-day summer sports tournament will include basketball, volleyball, softball, football, and bowling. Players include high school varsity, junior college, NCAA & NAIA Division 1-3, and some professional players. For more information on participating in or sponsoring NIT, please visit www.csunfasanit.com. Registration payments are due by Friday, August 14. For any questions, please email us at fasa.nit@gmail.com or call the Tournament Director CJ Berina at (818) 458-7446. You can also follow FASA NIT on Twitter @FASANIT2015.

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GNL88J: :Xj`ef Klie$8ifle[ =le[iX`j\i The Philippine Women’s University Alumni Association of Southern California appeals to alumni, family and friends to help in its humanitarian mission with a casino turn-around fundraiser at Harrah’s on Sunday, August 23. First pick up is at 8 am at 1512 E. Amar Rd., West Covina, CA 91792. Bus departs at 8:15 am; please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Second pick-up is at 8:45 am at 7511 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, CA 99621.

Bus leaves at 9 am with a return from the casino at 3 pm. Donation is $20, which includes bus ride and continental breakfast, and a chance to help PWUAASC’s projects like the annual distribution of hygienic packages for homeless men at Skid Row; backpacks for children at Harbor UCLA Medical Center; and donation to American Red Cross for survivors and victims of natural disasters. To sign up, please contact Virginia B. Vivas (714) 397-2976; Puring Worrell (310) 999-9574; Vicky Soong (626) 272-0465, Tessie N. Lightholder (909) 465-5919, or email Marigene Strouse GENIE1705@aol.com.

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LG88>C8 @e[lZk`fe ;`ee\i$;XeZ\ All U.P. Graduates, family and friends are invited to attend The Induction Dinner Dance of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles (UPAAGLA) on August 29, 2015 at 6pm at the Glendale Embassy Suites (800 Central Ave, Glendale, CA 91203). This event shall benefit the Scholarship Fund of UPAAGLA. Tickets are $75 inclusive of dinner. For ticket and sponsorship inquiries, please contact Arnel Joaquin (213) 880-3305 / arnelj@gmail.com, or Dick Cu (562) 547-0560, or visit www.upaagla.org.

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EXk`feXc :fleZ`c f] G_`c`gg`e\ 8d\i`ZXe :XeX[`Xe 8ZZflekXekj )'(, :_Xi`kp >fc] KflieXd\ek Where: Penderbrook Golf Club, 3700 Golf Trail Lane, Fairfax, VA 22033 When: September 4, 2015; 8am-2pm Please contact: Jaena Hermosilla Valles 718-275-1422; jvalles@vallesvendiola.com or Bobby Tamayo 703-615-9451; rgtamayo@verizon.net Visit www.ncpacafoundation.com for more details.

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EXk`feXc :fleZ`c f] G_`c`gg`e\ 8d\i`ZXe :XeX[`Xe 8ZZflekXekj )'(, :fem\ek`fe Where: JW Marriott 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC 20004 When: September 4-6, 2015; from 8am-5pm Please contact: Jaena Hermosilla Valles 718-275-1422; jvalles@vallesvendiola.com or Bobby Tamayo 703-615-9451; rgtamayo@verizon.net Visit www.ncpacafoundation.com for more details.

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

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DHS eases requirements…

the USCIS. This interpretation was challenged in the court case of Shalom Pentecostal Church v. Acting Secretary DHS, 783 F.3d 156 (3d Cir. 2015). In that case, the court ruled against the USCIS, stating that it is beyond their legal authority to mandate that the required work must be authorized.

Consequently, the USCIS issued the recent policy memorandum in order to implement apply the court’s decision nationwide to all religious worker petitions.

The USCIS now confirms that the 2 years of required work experience in a religious capacity can either be authorized or not authorized by the USCIS. If an individual who is undocumented in the US is performing full-time religious work for at least 2 years, the change in policy may now al-

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low them to be classified as a Special Immigrant Religious Worker.

The new policy regarding Special Immigrant Religious Workers was effectively immediately when it was announced on July 5, 2015. Individuals who have selflessly devoted their efforts for a religious cause should take the opportunity that is afforded to them so that they may find the security necessary to allow them to continue sharing their charitable deeds. *** For further information, please schedule an appointment with an attorney at Aquino & Loew, Certified Immigration Law Specialists; (888) 797-1140 or (626) 799-3089; info@ aquinoloew.com. Please also visit Aquino & Loew at www. aquinoloew.com and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. Aquino & Loew also handles family law and criminal matters. Providing Personalized Service Nationwide & Abroad Since 1996.

(Advertising Supplement)

Loaves and fishes: Transformed…

compassion, service, and justice. Bills, laws, and regulations must reflect these values. Indeed, unless we have permeated the world with the Spirit of the Gospel and have brought about conversion of hearts and minds, we can’t have a world of generosity and abundance.

Let’s keep a hopeful spirit. Let’s bring our “fives loaves and fishes”, with our transformed hearts and enlightened minds.

With these gifts God will make wonders in

our lives and in the world! *** From a Filipino immigrant family, Reverend Rodel G. Balagtas was ordained to the priesthood from St. John’s Seminary in 1991. He served as Associate Pastor at St. Augustine, Culver City (1991-1993); St. Martha, Valinda (1993-1999); and St. Joseph the Worker, Canoga Park (1999-2001). In 2001, he served as Administrator Pro Tem of St. John Neumann in Santa Maria, CA, until his appointment as pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary, Los Angeles, in 2002, which lasted 12 years. His term as Associate Director of Pastoral Field Education at St. John’s Seminary began in July 2014.

Community Journal

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

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Barton Law Office offers solid legal representation IF you are looking for a law office you can depend on for solid legal representation, consider Torrancebased Law Office of Robert O. Barton.

Barton’s law office is highly experienced in resolving business disputes over contract interpretation, partnership agreements, purchase and sale agreements, lease agreements, lender liability, tort liability, foreclosure, debt restructuring and bankruptcy. Family law and personal injury litigation are areas that the law office also represents.

The Law Office of Robert Barton welcomes all in the Filipino American community who might be experiencing legal tussles or languishing in some kind of legal limbo that require the services of a veteran lawyer who can articulate their side of the case and fight on solid footing on their behalf.

Barton is an excellent and dedicated legal counsel with the academic background and professional experience that cuts across multiple disciplines. His credentials are impressive. He earned a BA from Columbia College, MBA from Columbia University Graduate School of Business. Barton then parlayed these Ivy League degrees into a stellar 25-

Atty. Bob Barton welcomes all in the Filipino American community who might be experiencing legal tussles or languishing in some kind of legal limbo that require the services of a veteran lawyer who can articulate their side of the case and fight on solid footing on their behalf. The office understands the Filipino culture and has staff that can speak Tagalog. Call for an appointment: (310) 870-1798 or (310) 320-3122.

year advertising career with various multinational agencies with a global reach. He pursued a law degree at the University of California Hastings College of Law graduating Cum Laude in 2001. Barton is licensed to practice law in California, New York, and the District of Columbia, as well as before the US Supreme Court.

Barton also teaches law and is a

published author, with articles appearing in noted legal publications such as “California Lawyer” and “Los Angeles Lawyer” among others. He has been involved in a wide range of legal cases varying in nature, size and complexity. Notably, Barton was a member of the 3-attorney team, which won a victory in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals with a case commonly known as Fontana Empire Center, LLC v. City of Fontana.

Barton believes that in most cases, a client’s problem can be solved with a few simple phone calls or a letter.

In these cases, Barton believes that filing a lawsuit would be a disservice to the client. When litigation does ensue however, a skilled attorney like himself can resolve the problem through negotiation and settlement.

If trial is inevitable, Barton has the temperament, experience and advocacy skills needed to zealously represent his client. As an experienced litigator, he is well prepared to handle your litigation needs, whatever the nature of the dispute: civil, family law, personal injury, or business. *** For more information, visit www.bartonlawoffices. com. Or better yet, give him a call to discuss the merits of your case at (310) 870-1798 or (310) 320-3122.

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FAITH to hold its first Summit in Richmond, Va.

THE Filipino-American Initiative to Transform our Homeland (FAITH), a subsidiary of the Filipino United Network - USA (FUN8888.com), is holding its inaugural Summit on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at the Double Tree by Hilton in Richmond, Virginia, hosted by the North Central Virginia Association of Philippine Physicians Foundation during its the 32nd Annual Convention led by one of the founders of NC-VAPP, Dr. Sarie Laserna.

FAITH, led by acting director Eustaquio “Boy” Abay, MD, a neurosurgeon in Witchita, Kansas, aims to establish and develop a working partnership with the Philippine government for the necessary transformation of the country for the ultimate benefits of the people, especially the marginalized and those suffering in the gutter of poverty.

This coalition of medical leaders from various parts of the United States also gears itself to connect and collaborate with as many Filipino American organi-

zations in the USA and Canada, and encourage the younger generations of Fil-Ams to visit the Philippines and discover their roots, heritage, and culture, and strengthen their ties abroad.

FAITH, whose membership is open to everyone, even nonFilipinos and non-physicians, who wants to help in the sociocivic-economic reconstruction of the Philippines, is also trying to inspire adults and retirees, Filipinos or foreigners, to visit the Philippines for the first time or revisit and rekindle their love with the Filipino people, a most hospital hosts.

As physicians who do regular medical missions to the Philippines, the members of FAITH, is working with the various agencies in the Philippines, like the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Health, Professional Regulatory Commission, Commission on Filipinos Overseas, Philippine Medical Association, Philippine College of Surgeons, Bureau of Customs, etc., in order to organize, stream-

line, expedite medical missions to the country for the ultimate benefit of those medically underserved poor Filipinos in the rural areas.

For those interested to attend the FAITH Summit or join this humanitarian 501(c)3 tax-exempt United States Foundation or get more detailed information, email abaynsc@gmail.com or scalpelpen@gmail.com Specifically, we aim to: 1) Make Medical/Surgical Missions more efficient and sustainable.

2) Establish and develop working Partnerships with Philippine government and its agencies with clearly defined projects.

3) Connect and collaborate with as many FilAm groups and organizations (US, Canada and elsewhere) as possible.

4) Encourage our Youth and Young Adults to visit the Philippines, discover their roots, learn about their culture and heritage first hand . Be inspired.

5) Encourage FilAm adults and retirees to revisit and rekindle their Love of Country. n

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People & Events

A group of IERC members gather together at Dodger Stadium for a final photo before the start of the 2015 LA Marathon.

Local Running Club kicks off 2016 LA Marathon training program

CHINO HILLS, CA--The Inland Empire Running Club (IERC) kicks off its LA Marathon Training Program Saturday, August 15, 2015, 8 a.m., at 6350 Mystic Canyon Drive in Chino Hills.

This is the eighth year the club has offered a 26-week training program for the 26.2-mile LA Marathon, which is scheduled for February 14, 2016 and will run from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica. “IERC is a club that caters to athletes of all skill levels, and our program is especially good for new runners, walkers, and run/walkers who want to complete their first marathon,” said Karen Ray, IERC Director.

The fee for the 26-week training program is $60 if you sign up by August 31, 2015, and $85 beginning September 1, and includes: • Training targeting brand new to advanced athletes.

• Club membership through July 2016 • Multiple pace groups led by veteran athletes for runners, run/ walkers, and walkers--you are assured to find a pace group to meet your training needs.

• 26 Week Training Schedule so you know what to do each day of the week • Clinics by experts on topics including nutrition, hydration, running apparel, injury preven-

tion, among others • Weekly club trainings using an established training course on the streets and paths of Chino Hills.

• IERC technical training shirt, gear bag, emergency ID shoe tag, and Hydrapouch reusable water pouch for new members • Water/Sports drink provided at water stations throughout the training course including post training snacks and refreshments.

For more information or to sign up for training, go to www. ierunningclub.com or stop by 6350 Mystic Canyon Drive Saturday, August 15, at 8 a.m. n

MSEUF Grand Reunion in Las Vegas

MANUEL S. Enverga University Foundation of Lucena City, Philippines to be hosted by MSEUF Alumni Association of California.

Announcement to all MSEUF (formerly known as Luzonian University Foundation) Alumni of our Grand Reunion to be held on August 20-22, 2015 at the Gold Coast Resort Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

For further information, you may call one of the following committee members: Butch Villarama (916) 600-8472, Mercy Bruno (310) 686-1421, Malou Almadrones (213) 531-7824, Polar Quinto (626) 484-0951, Arnold Bejasa (818) 652-0406, Merci Mallare (310) 837-8312, Romy Puertollano (619) 518-4805, Jose DeLeon (562) 999-6914, and Nonato Palomar (818) 209-6881. n

St. Francis Children’s Fund 15th Anniversary Dinner & Auction Happy 90th birthday Papa Jose Villareal Sr.! May you have many more birthdays to come. A warm greeting from your loving wife, children and grandchildren.

JOIN us for a night of great food, dancing, fellowship, and answering to God’s call of helping poor children and victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.

This special fundraising dinner dance and silent auction will take

place on Saturday, August 8th at Griffith Park Visitor Center Auditorium (4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA) from 6 to 10:30pm. For reservations, please call 818-748-7361 or 818627-3720. n

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 1-4, 2015

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C AUGUST 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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MARKETPLACE SHOWROOM

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ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ THE USCIS has published a proposed rule expanding eligibility for a provisional waiver of the 3\10 year bar. The expanded provisional waiver will include “all aliens” statutorily eligible for the waiver. At present, only immediate relatives of US citizens (spouse, parents, and child) may apply for a provisional waiver of the 3/10 year bar, before they depart the US for immigrant visa processing at the US Embassy, provided they demonstrate “extreme hardship” on a US citizen spouse or parent.

The proposed rule expands eligibility in two ways: • Not only are immediate relatives of US citizens eligible for a provisional waiver, but also other family and employment based categories.

• A person can demonstrate “extreme hardship” not only on a US citizen parent or spouse, but also on an immigrant (LPR) spouse or parent.

A provisional waiver could benefit people who are ineligible to adjust status in the US, such as: • crewman (or jump ships), who do not have the benefit of Section 245(i); • people who entered the US without inspection (EWI), but do not have the benefit of Section 245(i); and • people who entered the US on a K-1 fiancée visa, but did not marry the US citizen who petitioned them, but instead married a different American.

In all these cases, the person is ordinarily not eligible to receive a

green card (adjust status) in the US, but instead must go back to the Philippines for an immigrant visa, which could trigger the 3/10 year bar. The purpose of this regulation is to shorten the amount of time these people are separated from their family members, while they process their immigrant visas overseas at the Embassy.

However, before you jump on a plane for Manila, here are some FAQ’s about this regulation: 1. What is the 3/10 year bar?

The 3/10 year bar is a law, which basically states that anyone who is out of status in the US for more than 180 days, but less than a year, and then departs the US, is barred from returning for to the US 3 years. Anyone who had been out of status for more than one year, and then departs is barred from returning for 10 years. This 3/10 year bar is triggered only when the alien departs the US. 2. What is the procedure currently in place for people who are subject to the 3/10 year bar?

Under current law and procedures, when a person has been found to have triggered the 3/10 year bar (by departing the US after being out of status for more than 180 days), the person must apply for a waiver (or forgiveness) at the US Embassy by demonstrating certain relatives (called “qualifying relatives”) would suffer “extreme hardship” if the waiver is not granted. At present, these qualifying relatives include the person’s spouse or parent who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). A child is not considered a “qualifying relative” for purposes of evaluating the waiver or extreme hardship. However, the alien must apply for the waiver only after he or she departs the

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Torre de Manila developer: Photobombing not against the law

by TETCH

TORRES-TUPAS Inquirer.net

THE photobombing issue against the P2.7-billion Torre de Manila condominium cannot be the basis of a case because even if some sectors consider the building “annoying” or “offending to the senses,” there is no legal basis to use aesthetics as reason to stop the construction of the 49-story structure.

In a 34-page position paper, DMCI Project Developers Inc. told the high court there was no law prohibiting and penalizing the obstruction of the background, backdrop or view of the Rizal Monument in Luneta Park, Manila.

“Torre de Manila is a legitimate residential condominium project that was demonized in the media G8>< ;)

FVR urges realtors: ‘Take action for the common good’

by CATHERINE

TALAVERA Manilatimes.net

FORMER President Fidel V. Ramos on Thursday, July 30 urged a gathering of Filipino and international realtors to start caring for others and to “take action for the common good and sacrifice for the common good” to help build a strong nation.

Ramos was the keynote speaker at the International Realtor Conference (IRC) arranged by the

Chamber of Real Estate Builders Association Inc. (CREBA) held on Thursday, July 30 at the Grand Ballroom of the City of Dreams in Parañaque City.

The two-day conference, in partnership with the National Association of Realtors, consisted of lectures given by real estate leaders from around the world and was attended by delegates from the property sector in the G8>< ;)

US rate hike won’t affect PH MAUREEN Philstar.com

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DHS publishes ‘expanded’ provisional waiver rule for 3/10 year bar

Immigration Corner

by LOUISE

C8 N<<B<E; 8J@8E AFLIE8C 8L>LJK ($+# )'(,

SIMEON

MANILA—Japanese credit rating agency Rating and Investment Information Inc. (R&I) said the impending US interest rate hike won’t significantly affect the Philippines.

“R&I does not believe that the Philippines’ economic fundamentals will deteriorate significantly.

The rating outlook is stable,” the company said in a statement.

With the Philippine economy growing at an average of six percent, R&I said the strong economic

trend together with prices stability and the financial system created a favorable macroeconomic environment.

Brisk investment has also contributed to the continued growth in the past years alongside private consumption which is the primary driver of the Philippine economy.

Risks are also limited in both fiscal and external sectors.

Although share of investments in the gross domestic product (GDP) is increasing, R&I noted it is still G8>< ;)

Business Quote of the Week “The imagination is how things get done.

You have to cultivate creativity.”

- Russell Simmons, African American Entrepreneur

US and applies for the immigrant visa at the Embassy. In addition, the adjudication of the waiver may take weeks, months, or even years to be completed. In the meantime, the family is separated for a lengthy period of time, waiting for the waiver to be processed.

3. Who is eligible under the original\existing “provisional waiver” process?

The only family members currently eligible for the existing provisional waiver are immediate relatives (spouse, parent, or minor child) of a US citizen, and only where a US citizen parent or spouse would suffer extreme hardship.

4. Who is eligible under the proposed expanded provisional waiver process?

In addition to “immediate relatives,” a petition by an LPR (green card holder) relative or an employer would also qualify, or where the “qualifying relative” is an LPR spouse or parent. For example, if you have a USC child and an LPR spouse, you could be petitioned by your USC child (which is faster), and qualify for a provisional waiver by demonstrating extreme hardship on your LPR spouse or parent. Similarly, if you were petitioned by an employer and have

an LPR parent, you could also qualify for the provisional waiver, by demonstrating extreme hardship on your LPR parent.

5. What are the benefits of the “provisional waiver” program?

This procedure would allow qualified aliens, with a US citizen or LPR parent or spouse, to apply for a waiver of the 3/10 year bar, while still in the US, and before they depart the US for immigrant visa processing overseas. If the waiver is granted, they would then depart the US (with the approved waiver in hand), and would not have to wait several months outside the US to process that 3/10 year bar waiver.

6. Would this provisional waiver process apply to other immigration violations or grounds of inadmissibility?

No. This provisional waiver applies only to the 3/10 year bar. If a person has other immigration violations, such as fraud (assumed name entry), criminal convictions, and the like, which also require a waiver, the person would have to apply for all such waivers outside the US. 7. If I’m being petitioned as an immediate relative, do I really need to depart the US? In many cases, people being pe-

titioned as an “immediate relative” can still adjust status (obtain their green card), in the US even if they are out of status, worked without authorization, or do not have the benefit of Section 245(i). If a person is eligible to adjust status in the US, they should not even think of departing the US, and, therefore, trigger the 3/10 year bar. See an attorney, who can determine if you even need to depart the US to obtain your green card. Maybe you don’t need to.

8. Are there any people who could benefit from this proposed “provisional waiver” process?

There are still a few categories of aliens who are not eligible to adjust status in the US, even if petitioned by a US citizen as an immediate relative. These include: (a) crewman (jump ship) without Section 245(i); (b) someone who entered the US without inspection (EWI), such as snuck across the border, and does not have the benefit of Section 245(i); (c) a person who entered the US on a K-1 fiancée visa, but did not marry the American who filed the K-1 petition, but married a different American instead, and the like. So this regulation could possibly benefit them, if they have no other immigration violations, such as fraud,

misrepresentation, etc.

In conclusion, if you think this proposed expansion of the provisional waiver could benefit you, you should definitely seek the advice of a reputable attorney, who can evaluate your circumstances and status, and determine if it is even necessary for you to depart the US, and if so, can assist in preparing and processing this provisional waiver. As you can see, only certain people would be eligible for this provisional waiver. *** D`Z_X\c A% >liÔeb\c `j c`Z\ej\[# Xe[ Xe XZk`m\ d\dY\i f] k_\ JkXk\ 9Xi f] :Xc`]fie`X Xe[ E\n Pfib% 8cc `dd`^iXk`fe j\im`Z\j Xi\ gifm`[\[ Yp# fi le[\i k_\ jlg\im`j`fe f]# Xe XZk`m\ d\dY\i f] k_\ JkXk\ 9Xi f] :Xc`]fie`X% <XZ_ ZXj\ `j [`]]\i\ek% K_\ `e]fidXk`fe ZfekX`e\[ _\i\`e `eZcl[`e^ k\jk`dfe`Xcj# ÈJlZZ\jj Jkfi`\j#É \e[fij\d\ekj Xe[ i\$\eXZkd\ekj `j f] X ^\e\iXc eXkli\# Xe[ `j efk `ek\e[\[ kf Xggcp kf Xep gXik`ZlcXi ZXj\# Xe[ [f\j efk Zfejk`klk\ X gi\[`Zk`fe# nXiiXekp# ^lXiXek\\ fi c\^Xc X[m`Z\ i\^Xi[`e^ k_\ flkZfd\ f] pfli c\^Xc dXkk\i% Ef Xkkfie\p$Zc`\ek i\cXk`fej_`g `j# fi j_Xcc Y\# \jkXYc`j_\[ n`k_ Xep i\X[\i% N<9J@K<1 nnn%^liÔeb\c%Zfd :Xcc Kfcc ]i\\ kf jZ_\[lc\ X ZfejlckXk`fe ]fi Xepn_\i\ `e k_\ LJ1 /-- Ç>LI=@EB<C =fli f]ÔZ\j kf j\im\ pfl1 CFJ 8E><C<J × J8E =I8E:@J:F × E<N PFIB × G?@C@GG@E<J

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PH gov’t ramps up infra spending in 2016 GMA Network expands presence across globe

by Kathleen

A. Martin

Philstar.com

MANILA—The government will ramp up public spending on infrastructure next year to sustain the country’s growth momentum, data from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) showed.

Under the proposed P3.002trillion national budget for 2016, the government aims to spend P766.5 billion for public infrastructure, nearly 35 percent higher than this year’s allocation of P569.9 billion.

According to the DBM data, next year’s budget allocation is about five percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and more than four times the P165 billion infrastructure spending by the government in 2010.

“We implemented bold reforms to ensure that we spend on the right projects at the right cost and with the right quality,” President Aquino said in his budget message following the submission of the proposed 2016 national budget to Congress.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) accounted for the lion’s share of infrastructure budget with P268.4 billion for the pavement of national roads and construction of access roads to airports, seaports, and tourist destinations.

Allocations for the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) amounted to P10.2 billion for the construction and improvement of airports and seaports, and P15.7 billion for the rehabilitation of railway systems.

GMA International, which manages the operations and distribution of GMA Network’s international channels abroad, continues to expand its presence across the globe.

“We continue to uphold our commitment to bring quality Kapuso programming to a wider audience,” said Joseph Francia, GMA first vice president and head of international operations.

Three Filipino channels—GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International—are now within reach of Filipinos living in the United States.

GMA said that since July 1, subscribers of Charter Spectrum TV in the United States have been able to watch and enjoy their favorite Kapuso entertainment and news programs through GMA’s three Under the proposed P3.002-trillion national budget for 2016, the government aims to spend international channels.

P766.5 billion for public infrastructure, nearly 35 percent higher than this year’s allocation Charter Spectrum TV is a leadof P569.9 billion.

“In addition to infrastructure, this budget invests in strategic support services to boost agriculture, revitalize the manufacturing sector, and further expand the tourism industry,” Aquino said.

Budget allocation for the Department of Agriculture stood at P93.4 billion for the construction of more farm-to-market roads and irrigation services, and provide for services that will help farmers diversify their crops and reach the right markets.

The Department of Agrarian Reform’s budget stood at P4.5 billion for the acquisition and distribution of covered lands to beneficiaries.

DBM data also showed the government plans to continue

Philstar.com photo

supporting the manufacturing sector next year with P10.6 billion set aside for technical-vocational and tertiary education scholarships to enhance the quality of the workforce.

Another P780 million has been earmarked for the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading program for 2,150 small and medium enterprises, while P201 million has been appropriated for the creation of 68 Negosyo Centers to assist SMEs. At the same time, the government allotted P24 billion for additional infrastructure to make tourism destinations more accessible under the proposed 2016 budget, while budget for tourism promotion stood at P4.3 billion.

ing broadband communications company and the fourth largest cable operator in the US, which provides a full range of advanced broadband services throughout the country.

While GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV have been available in the US since 2005 and 2007, respectively, this year marks the first time that GMA News TV International will be available for all Kapuso fans in the United States.

According to Allan Singer, Charter Communications senior vice president for programming, “Spectrum TV offers a wide array of diverse, quality content that touches many cultures, and we are pleased to bring GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International to our customers in these communities, and more will follow.”

GMA’s international channels

offer a diverse menu of Kapuso programs which Filipinos abroad will surely enjoy. Regular Kapuso shows in the Philippines can be watched from GMA Pinoy TV, and lifestyle programs can be followed through GMA Life TV. Meanwhile, GMA News TV International serves up the latest news straight from the Philippines and delivered to viewers without much delay.

Besides the US launch, GMA’s flagship international channels have already been widely available in other parts of the world.

PCCW recently carried GMA News TV International and brought it to Filipino viewers in Hong Kong beginning June 2, 2015.

GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International will also soon be available on LycaTV to cater to Kapuso fans in Europe. (ManilaTimes.net)

Torre de Manila developer: Photobombing not...

PAGE D1 as a ‘photobomber’ that would mar the view of the Rizal Monument. However, the concept of photobombing in relation to national monuments and shrines is not in the law,” DMCI told the high court.

“Buildings and high rises, including those around public monuments, are inevitable in metropolitan areas because of the increase in population and the lack of available land space,” DMCI added.

It pointed out that petitioner Knights of Rizal (KofR) could not rely on the zoning ordinance

which limited the maximum gross-floor-area-to-area-of-theplot ration to 4 because it had been suspended by the executive branch.

DMCI added that it was able to secure a formal exemption from the floor area restriction under the zoning ordinance which was subsequently approved by the City Council of Manila. It said that aside from the city council, there were also stamps of approval from the Manila City Planning and Development Office as well as the Manila Zoning Board and Adjustments and Appeals.

“In short, the construction of Torre de Manila bears the stamp of approval of various offices in the City of Manila performing different and independent functions… the official acts of which enjoy the presumption of regularity which petitioners bare and unsubstantiated allegations of irregularities cannot overturn,” DMCI said.

It also said that Torre de Manila could not alter or affect the integrity of the area since it is 870 meters away from the Rizal Monument and around 30 meters away from the outermost edge of Luneta Park.

The developer noted that several prominent Filipinos, such as National Artist for Literature F. Sionil Jose, urban planner architect Felino Palafox Jr. and the Philippine Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations Inc., have independently issued opinions and statements defending Torre de Manila from bashing in the media.

It also warned that a ruling against the construction of Torre de Manila would create a dangerous precedent and result in “economic havoc.”

In particular, DMCI cited the runabout at Bantayog ni Bonifacio in Caloocan City where an SM supermarket and other buildings stood; Bonifacio Monument on J.P. Rizal Street in Makati City where several high-rise condominiums

and commercial buildings had been built, and other monuments such as Edsa Shrine in Ortigas Center; Liwasang Bonifacio in Ermita, Manila; Ninoy Aquino Monument in Makati City, Rizal Monument in Zamboanga City, statue of Arsenio Lacson in Manila and monument of Gen. Pio del Pilar in Makati City.

“A ruling directing the demolition of Torre de Manila will have the practical effect of evicting thousands of residents of highrise condominiums, knocking down malls and public markets, and tearing down banks, hospitals and other industries crucial to business and the national economy,” it explained.

As of May 31, DMCI said it had spent P1.28 billion for the construction of the building and would lose about P4.27 billion in capital investments and unrealized profits should the court order it to be demolished.

“Petitioner seeks to enjoin the construction and development of Torre de Manila and to demolish it to secure for the general public the continued enjoyment of the Rizal Monument and its surroundings, free of the supposed obstructions of tall buildings such as Torre de Manila. This constitutes public purpose within the contemplation of eminent domain,” DMCI said.

Assuming that the government’s act of authorizing the construction of Torre de Manila was void, DMCI said the doctrine of “operative fact” should be applied since it relied in good faith on the permits and licenses issued for the project.

Under the doctrine, a judicial declaration of invalidity may not necessarily obliterate all the effects and consequences of a void act prior to such declaration.

“This is not only the most feasible and realistic resolution, but is one that dispenses fairness and justice to DMCI-PDI and all persons that will be affected by an adverse ruling from this Honorable Court,” it said.

US rate hike won’t affect...

PAGE D1 the lowest among neighboring countries, while per-capita income levels are also low compared with other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

“If the Philippines sustains solid growth and makes steady progress in raising per-capita income, it will likely have a positive impact on its creditworthiness,” the agency said.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas

(BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr., on the other hand, said the country is still in a desired convergence of fast growth and lower inflation.

“We have sufficient buffers against external shocks. The banking sector remains sound and stable. The credit rating agencies recognize these. We all need to ensure that the Philippines keeps its hard-earned investment grade sovereign credit ratings beyond 2016,” he said.

FVR urges realtors: ‘Take action...

PAGE D1 Philippines, as well as from different countries.

At the gathering, Ramos shared his theme of “Caring, Sharing and Daring to make a difference” and reminded his listeners that they have a responsibility to care for the nation by making sure that proper measures are taken and followed in the construction of different property projects.

Ramos, who is also a registered civil engineer, said that people in the property sector who have knowledge of what is proper when it comes to the construction of buildings and houses should share that knowledge with the people concerned.

“Advise the builders what is proper about the soil,” he said.

Ramos also urged the realtors to target sustainability. He emphasized the importance of caring for the next generation.

“We must build a functional and sustainable environment for the ones after us,” he said.

Ramos also stressed the three concepts of unity, solidarity and teamwork to ensure growth of the economy is sustained.

Ramos explained, “We must have unity of purpose to be able to build a better future for ourselves; we must have solidarity in our values by loving God, other

Former Pres. Fidel V. Ramos

people and our environment; and we should have teamwork in order to build a strong nation.”

The former president ended his speech by challenging the leaders of the property sectors to dare to be different by thinking of different ways to change and improve the lives not just of others but of the whole nation, and that improvement starts when they begin to care for the people and for the nation.

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ASEAN integration poses Buying a new car stress-free: Kababayans at bigger challenge for SMEs DCH Toyota of Torrance will show you how

by Louise

Maureen Philstar.com

Simeon

FILIPINO Loyd Aler landed his first job as a produce and MANILA—As the Associavegetable delivery man. tion of Southeast Asian Nations Then he became a fast food (ASEAN) Economic Community restaurant manager, and then a (AEC) draws nearer, Standard quality insurance inspector.

Chartered Bank sees a bigger His father, Edgar, who used to challenge in bringing small and work in wholesale for food and medium enterprises (SMEs) on vegetables, and that inspired board. him to ultimately pursue a career Although larger companies in sales: today, he works as the have geared up for the AEC, Filipino Dept. Manager and fewer than one-fifth of Asean busiSenior Sales Specialist at DCH nesses are prepared, according Toyota of Torrance. to a recent survey conducted by “I really love what I do for the Asian Development Bank and living and I enjoy very much not Institute of Southeast Asia. just selling cars, but making new SMEs generate around 90 perfriends, selling great products, cent of Asean jobs and contribute and helping people get and drive 30 to 50 percent of gross domestic their dream cars,” he says. product (GDP) of the region.

Buying a car is no easy decision.

“While various programs exist It requires careful thought and it’s for SMEs at the country level, we something Aler understands. need a pan-ASEAN framework Since 2002 he has been selling of governmental support, highToyota vehicles, a brand that has lighting the benefits of the AEC been touted for its safety, retail to smaller businesses,” ASEAN value and longevity.

StanChart chief executive officer In addition to the quality Lim Cheng Teck said. brand he sells, Aler works at By the end of the year, Asean an auto dealership owned by will be integrated, allowing a businessman based in Hong Kong. It was established almost a decade ago and is continually growing: since its inception, it has opened more than 20 DCH dealerships across the

by Jess Diaz 15 years on bills that sought United States, with locations in Philstar.com to increase sin taxes, giving Temecula, Oxnard, Simi Valley, MANILA—President Benigno tobacco and liquor companies and on the east coast in New York Aquino III has boasted of doubling a windfall. and New Jersey. The goal of the the amount of taxes collected by Aquino thanked the present company is to exceed customers’ the administration of detained Congress for the enactment of the e x p e c t a t i o n s a n d p r o v i d e former President and Pampanga sin tax reform law. exceptional service to ensure Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

He also gave credit to BIR the highest satisfaction. Among “When we stepped in, the Commissioner Kim Henares for highest collection on record was in the record tax collections.

2008, at P778.6 billion…We sur“I believe that Commissioner passed this by leaps and bounds,” Henares is a kind person, but Aquino said in his sixth and last those against whom she filed casState of the Nation Address. es might have a different opinion.

Aquino said tax revenues gen- Commissioner Henares spared erated by the Bureau of Internal no tax evader: 380 cases have Revenue reached P1.06 trillion already been filed against those in 2012, the first time the agency who attempted to evade taxes. breached the P1 trillion mark. She also made the system for tax Last year, BIR’s tax collections payment more efficient, and made increased to P1.3 trillion. clear to everyone his civic duty to For this year, the Aquino ad- contribute to the development of ministration aims to collect up to our country,” he said.

P1.5 trillion.

For 2016, the BIR is expected “We only needed five years to to collect about P2 trillion while match, surpass, and almost dou- the Bureau of Customs is tasked ble our predecessor’s record high to contribute P400 billion to state – and we did this without impos- coffers. ing new taxes, as promised, apart Aquino is proposing a P3from sin tax reform,” he said. trillion national budget for next The amended sin tax reform year. law raised excise taxes on alcohol What the President did not and tobacco products. mention is the annual budget has Previous Congresses and ad- also doubled since he took over ministrations had sat for at least from Arroyo. the free flow of products and goods, services, and skilled workers across the 10 member-states.

“By growing the economic pie, all member states of Asean should benefit. The AEC could make Asean businesses more competitive on cost, helping to lift the region to the next level of growth. But to realize this potential, everyone has to pull together,” Cheng Teck added.

He said AEC will help the region “create more jobs, attract foreign investments, increase cross-border trade, grow wealth and improve the lives of its citizens.”

Cheng Teck said he wants to see an Asean that allows businesses and its people move with ease across borders and generates growth and prosperity.

“AEC is a journey rather than a destination. While I agree it will take time to iron out differences and reach common ground, if we keep telling ourselves that it is a journey, it may take much longer than it should,” he added.

Aquino brags record tax collections

After a grueling 13,498 kilometers across Europe onboard the Honda Civic Tourer, Fergal McGrath and Julian Warren take a breather upon returning to the Honda office in Aalst, Belgium.

Honda sets new fuel efficiency record

Honda set a new Guinness World Record for the lowest fuel consumption in a car by driving across the 24 contiguous countries of the European Union (EU). The new record posted by Honda now stands at an average of 2.82 liters per 100 kilometers over 13,498 kms in a 25-day drive across all 24 EU contiguous countries.

Behind the wheel of a Honda Civic Tourer 1.6 i-DTEC for the entire journey were two members of Honda’s European Research and Development (R&D) team, Fergal McGrath and Julian Warren, who took on the challenge to demonstrate the impressive real-world fuel economy of the Civic Tourer.

The remarkable distance traveled is similar to the team driving to Australia from their home in the United Kingdom, stopping just nine times to refuel. The car achieved an incredible average 1,500 kms on each tank of fuel, at a total fuel cost for the whole journey of just 645 euros.

The team set out on their epic road trip from Aalst, Belgium on June 1, navigating the continent in a clockwise direction. They returned to their start point on June 25, recording the incredible fuel economy figures that exceed the Tourer’s quoted efficiency of 3.8 liters per 100 kms by more than 25 percent.

The official Guinness World Record title is “Lowest Fuel Consumption – all 24 contiguous EU countries,” measured in liters

per 100 kms calculated over the entire journey.

Guinness rules Under the rules, the same two drivers must be in the car for the whole journey, giving Fergal and Julian, Honda R&D colleagues of some 18 years and based in the UK, the challenge of driving an average of approximately 600 kms, taking around 7.5 hours each day.

Based on strict and rigorous guidelines, the Guinness World Record title attempt required the car to enter each of the 24 countries specified, collecting a range of evidence including a fuel/mileage logbook, GPS readings, video and photographs and independent witness signatures to prove that it has done so.

To ensure accurate monitoring of the route, journey time and distance driven, the record car was fitted with a tracking device, provided by fleet telematics and stolen vehicle recovery expert, Tracker (part of the Tantalum Corporation).

Under the rules of the record title attempt, the car must be a standard model in every respect, with no modifications to create an advantage, to replicate “real world” conditions. This was judged by independent witnesses at the beginning and end of the attempt. Fueling was carried out at regular filling stations, with the tank filled to the maximum at each stop to ensure no weight advantage.

PAGE D4

ways the dealership demonstrates how much customers matter is by delivering luxury services including oil changes, loaner cars, shuttles and much much more.

The dealership also boasts a wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles to meet the broad range of tastes and needs customers have.

Among the customers that visit DCH Toyota of Torrance, Aler says he sees many Filipinos who show interest in a variety of cars, including Highlander, Priuses and Camry models.

Joining Aler in the Filipino Dept. of DCH Toyota of Torrance are Phillip Rivera (Sales & Leasing Consultant), Edgar Relova (Sales & Leasing Consultant) and JP Panganiban (Sales & Leasing Consultant).

Aler as a manager of DCH’s Filipino department, welcomes and looks forward to serving his fellow kababayans. His overflowing friendly personality, as well as that of Rivera, Relova and Panganiban, make the Filipino sales team approachable and easy to talk to.

Aler says he enjoys his job, although one of the bigger challenges he faces in his job is when interested buyers with poor credit or lower incomes are turned down by the bank.

DCH offers special promotions, including low APRs and $0 down payments, but it isn’t always easy to extend these to certain customers.

“But for me, that’s the time I

We welcome all of our kababayan at DCH Toyota Filipino Sales Dept. Simply call us at toll free (888) 443-7619. We can always help you get an affordable car you want to drive that will fit your budget through a very smooth professional friendly super fast straight forward transaction.

Just ask for Loyd, Phillip, Ed or JP. Tawag na kaibigan!

will be more aggressive and shop around for more banks to help them,” he says.

In most cases, Aler is able to pull some strings and find a way to overcome this particular hurdle in the selling process, though interest rates tend to be just a little higher for individuals with credit and income limitations.

“But the important thing is they [have] another chance to get a car loan and that helps build their

credit again,” he says.

DCH Toyota of Torrance is conveniently located just off the 110 at: 2909 Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance, CA 90505.

DISCOUNT CONNECTION HOTLINE for Kababayans Phone: (888) 443-7619.

DCH Toyota of Torrance is open Mondays through Saturdays from 8:30am to 9pm, and on Sundays, from 10am to 8pm.

(Advertising Supplement)

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DOTC backs DOST’s electric road train

by RAINIER

ALLAN Philstar.com

RONDA

MANILA—The Electric Road Train (ERT) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has gained the support of Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya.

With Science Secretary Mario Montejo serving as tour guide, Abaya and Sen. Cynthia Villar went on a 10-minute ride on the ERT bus around the SM Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City yesterday.

The demonstration rides highlighted the celebration of the 2015 National Science and Technology Week.

In an interview with reporters after the ride, Abaya voiced his support for the DOST project, saying it could be an alternative mass transport system to help ease traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

“It’s like an ordinary air-conditioned bus,” Abaya said.

However, the DOTC chief said

ERT buses should be registered first with the Land Transportation Office before these are allowed to operate.

Public utility bus operators said they welcomed efforts of the government to develop mass transport system such as the ERT project.

According to Montejo, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Clark Development Corp. and the local government of Cebu have expressed interest in adopting the project.

Designed by Filipino engineers and made with locally available parts, the 40-meter long trainlike bus is an alternative means of transportation and touted by the DOST as a possible answer to the mass transportation problems in Metro Manila.

The ERT bus can serve 650,000 commuters when fully implemented, Montejo said.

It is composed of five interconnected fully air-conditioned

coaches, four of which can accommodate 60 passengers each for a total of 240 commuters per ride.

The ERT can run at a maximum speed of 60 kph. It is powered by a hybrid engine that runs on diesel fuel and electric battery.

The train is designed to be energy-efficient since it does not need electricity and cables to operate.

The ERT is expected to produce less smoke emission compared to existing mass transport vehicles, making it an eco-friendly mode of transport, the DOST said.

Aside from the ERT project, the DOST is also pursuing an ambitious project to develop an Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) system inside the University of the Philippines campus in Diliman, Quezon City and in Bicutan, Taguig.

The AGT adopts a radial wheel tire technology for a rail line system.

Honda sets new fuel effi ciency...

G8>< ;) Additionally, tires were inflated to the recommended pressures and the wheel alignment set to factory specification to represent the experience of the regular customer.

The team, both amateur driv-

ers, were also keen to show that through adopting some simple but very effective driving techniques, anybody could achieve such remarkable fuel economy.

They simply used some very logical methods including careful and sensible route planning, driving smoothly and consis-

tently without harsh acceleration or braking, anticipating the road conditions ahead, carrying no unnecessary weight, and ensuring that the car was correctly maintained at all times. Driving speed was always within the law and keeping up with traffic conditions. (ManilaTimes.net)

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Showroom

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

Longo Toyota delivers world class experience Being the premiere Toyota retailer in the nation, Longo Toyota aims to deliver a truly world-class experience to our guests on every transaction, everyday. it all starts with our friendly and welcoming staff, a clean and modern environment, and a wide range of services to make your visit pleasant and convenient. Here are some of our key amenities at Longo Toyota: Auto Club of Southern California (AAA) in november 1999, Longo Toyota became the first automotive dealership in the US to have the Auto Club on its premises. For 14 long years, our Auto Club branch has served countless satisfied Longo customers with its wide array of services Today, our on-site branch offers DMV services, airline, car and hotel reservations, discounted movie and local attraction tickets, membership processing, OnBoard Teen Safe Driver Program, and more. Sign up at our Longo Toyota branch and get $13 off the original membership application price. Located in our new car showroom, our AAA branch is open Mondays thru Saturdays, from 11am to 7pm.

Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer Longo Lexus is the first car dealership in the US to provide Verizon Wireless and Verizon Wireless neighborhood services on-site.

Our Verizon branch offers the latest in telecommunications, mobile devices, accessories and services. We also offer complimentary cellphone charging stations for our customers. Our Verizon retailer is located inside our parts retail center. Our Wireless Playground is open Monday-Friday, 7am7pm; Saturday, 7am-5:30pm; and Sunday, 8-4pm. Please call (888) 623-2133 for more information.

Starbucks and Subway While waiting for your car to come out of our car-care service lines, you can enjoy a quick bite at Subway or a nice refreshing drink at Starbucks.

We offer healthy dining options with Subway’s wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and wraps. if you’re thirsty and you’re looking for that quick coffee

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fix, you can grab a refreshing Hazelnut Macchiato or a smooth Caramel Frappuccino at Starbucks. Offering only the finest coffee specialties, teas, juices, and assortment of pastries, there’s something for everybody at our on-site Starbucks branch.

Both our Subway and Starbucks branches are available for catering services.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Longo Toyota also has two enterprise Rent-A-Car offices on its premises. One is located adjacent to the Service Drive in the Pre-Owned Vehicle Showroom, and the other is in the Collision Repair Center.

Customers are welcome to utilize the enterprise rental services, regardless of whether or not they leave their vehicle in Longo for any car service.

Complimentary Vehicle Delivery Service Longo Toyota also offer complimentary vehicle delivery service. Our delivery service is available 6 days a week, Monday thru Saturday, anywhere within a 60-mile radius of Longo Toyota.

Longo Toyota Parts and Accessories Department You can also shop at the Longo Toyota Parts and Accessories Department, which carries a wide selection of genuine Toyota parts and accessories for your vehicle. With thousands of parts and accessories in stock, we definitely have whatever it is you’re looking for. Our boutique also carries a selection of RayBan and Oakley sunglasses, women’s and men’s apparel, and so much more.

Shuttle Service For your convenience, Longo Toyota offers complimentary shuttle service while your vehicles are being serviced.

Our shuttles can take you to virtually anywhere within a 15mile radius of Longo Toyota – be it your home, work, the mall, or even the parlor!

Anywhere!

An engaging stay While we understand that our customer’s time is precious, we realize that many of them may need internet connectivity at all times. As such we are more than happy to provide FRee WiFi throughout our facility, and FRee use of our great business center. in our business center, we provide a quiet setting where our guests can work on our computers or on their own laptops.

We also provide free use of an iPad for Longo guests who are waiting for their vehicles. Our guest Check-in representative will be more than happy to arrange this for you. if you decide to bring the kids to the dealership, boredom will never be a problem. We also offer a variety of video games and DVDs just for kids so that they can also enjoy their visit to Longo Toyota.

For more information on our Longo Toyota guest Services, please log on to http://www. longotoyota.com/dealership/ amenities.htm.

Longo Toyota is located at 3534 north Peck Road, el Monte, CA 91731. Call (626)539-2584 to set up your appointment.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • august 1-4, 2015 D

Longo Lexus offers the ultimate conveniences in customer amenities

We all know that the process of buying a car is not just as simple as buying a new pair of shoes at the mall. It is a long process that involves careful comparison between vehicle models, reviewing the car’s specifications with regards to the needs of the buyer, and of course, the negotiations for the financing packages and promos.

As such, it is very important for Longo Lexus that its customers are supremely comfortable and well-pampered if they are going to make that important decision of which Lexus they will drive home.

As a car dealership, there are many reasons why Longo Lexus has been an elite of Lexus dealer since 1992. One of those reasons includes the ultimate conveniences that they offer in customer amenities. As one of the leading Lexus car dealerships, Longo Lexus provides not only pre-sales conveniences, but also noteworthy post-sales services.

Longo Lexus is known for the unique amenities that they offer to dealership customers.

One of those unique amenities include an on-site Auto Club of Southern California (AAA) center. The AAA branch offers DMV services, airline, car, and hotel reservations, discounted movie and local attraction tickets, AAA membership application processing, OnBoard Teen Safe Driver Program, auto and home insurance, and more. Sign up at our AAA branch in Longo, and you’ll receive a special $13 discount off the original membership price.

Aside from from the on-site AAA branch, Longo is also the first dealership in the US to offer Verizon Wireless and Verizon Wireless Neighborhood services on-site. Offering the latest technologies in telecommunications, mobile accessories, and services, Longo’s on-site Verizon branch makes it even more convenient for customers to stay connected with the world. Our Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer is open from Monday to Friday, 7am-7pm; Saturday, from 7am to 5:30pm; and Sunday, from 8am to 4pm. Please call (888) 8115201.

While waiting for your car to come out of our premium carcare service lines or while you’re going through our wide inventory of luxurious Lexus vehicles, you can enjoy a quick bite at Sub-

way or a nice refreshing drink at Starbucks.

If you want to pamper your car, you can also shop at the Longo Lexus Parts Boutique, which carries a wide selection of genuine Lexus parts and accessories for your vehicle. M`Zkfi I\p\j With over 31,000 parts and accessories in stock, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

The after-sales services of a dealership is just as important as the pre-sales amenities. And it these after-sales services that make buying a vehicle at Longo Lexus a truly rewarding experience.

We offer complimentary loaner vehicles for your use while your car is in our service center. For inquiries, on our loaners, please call our coordinators at 1-800-5970813.

For your convenience, we also offer complimentary shuttle service to take you to your office, home, or even the mall—basically anywhere within a 15-mile radius—while your vehicle is being serviced.

If you don’t have time to make the drive to our dealership, our Longo Lexus Mobile Service Van and Truck can provide routine maintenance services, such as oil changes and tire rotations, right at your home or office. Appointments can be made up to 6 months in advance.

Similarly, if your service requirements need the car to be physically present at our Longo service center, we offer complimentary flatbed truck pick-up and delivery of your vehicle to and from our dealership. Our Longo Lexus Mobile Service Van and Truck, and our complimentary flatbed truch pick-up and delivery service are exclusively for cars that are purchased from Longo Lexus, and are located within 60mile radius from Longo.

Please call 1-800-597-0813 to schedule your appointment.

Also, for every service appointment, each vehicle receives a complimentary car wash in our Longo Lexus Car Spa. For our clients who wish to use other cars, aside from those among our fleet of loaner Lexus cars, they can avail of the services of our enterprise Rent-A-Car offices.

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With two branches on the Longo Premises, enterprise is ready to address all your car rental needs.

Please call (800) 969-6519 for more information.

We understand that life’s daily grind requires our customers to be always on top of everything while keeping up with an onthe-go lifestyle. Which is they are more than welcome to work at our Longo Business Center where they can work on our computer terminals, free of charge.

We also offer complimentary Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) to our customers throughout the facility. This is particularly useful for our customers with mobile devices, laptops, and tablets.

While you wait for your car to come out of our service center, your kids can enjoy and have a good time at our Children Play Area, where we offer video games and other activities for the young ones.

Longo Lexus customers will also be offered complimentary use of our iPads while they are waiting for their vehicle.

For more information on our Longo Lexus Guest Services, please log on to www.longolexus.com/GuestAmenities or call (626) 539-2956.

Longo Lexus is located at 3530 North Peck Road, el Monte, CA 91731.

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D august 1-4, 2015 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

EMPLOYMENT

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