LA Weekend Edition -- April 30 -- May 3, 2016

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E D I T I OE ND I T I O NI T I O N ED

E DITION April 30-May 3, 2016

Volume 26 - No. 35 • 4 Sections – 34 Pages

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DFA cuts by half target turnout for overseas voting Also published in: • Orange County/Inland Empire • Northern California • Las Vegas • New York/ New Jersey

by esTrella

Torres Inquirer.net

foreIGN Undersecretary rafael seguis on thursday, April 28, said the government cut into half its turnout target for overseas voting—from one million or 80 percent of total registered voters to 500,000—due to the lack of enthusiasm on the part of filipinos abroad. ten days before the may 9 deadline

for overseas voting, the turnout remains low at 200,262 as of April 28 or 14.55 percent of the total 1.37 million registered voters, according to seguis.

“We are still hoping to reach as high as 500,000 voters turnout by may 9,” he told the Inquirer. seguis, who chairs the overseas Voting secretariat of the Department of foreign Affairs (DfA), said heads of embassies and consulates have yet to explain the decimal votes in their re-

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countries showed the highest enthusiasm with 90,372 voters turnout or 15.22 percent of the total 593,772 registered voters.

In terms of percentage, filipinos in the Asia Pacific, particularly those in hong Kong and singapore, have the highest voters turnout with 73,766 or 21.39 percent of the total 344,848 registered voters.

In europe, the voters turnout reached 20,468 or 12.66 percent of the

spective jurisdictions.

Asked whether ambassadors and consul generals have responded to the DfA memo on the decimal turnout of votes, seguis said they are “very silent” about the very low voter turnout. filipinos in America remain the least enthusiastic to vote in the may elections as the voters turnout is still the lowest at 15,656 or 5.68 percent of 275,729 registered voters. filipino workers in Arab and African

total 161,718 registered voters. meanwhile, Philippine Ambassador to saudi Arabia ezzedin tago renewed his call to filipino voters in the oil-rich country to cast their ballots before the may 9 deadline for overseas voting. he noted that enthusiasm among filipino voters is high on the social media but it has not translated into high voters turnout in voting centers in saudi Arabia.

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Former Chief Justice Corona passes away

by TeTch

Torres-Tupas Inquirer.net

former Chief Justice renato Corona has passed away, the supreme Court’s Public Information office (sC PIo) confirmed friday, April 29. the sC PIo said the family of the former Chief Justice informed the court of his passing.

Chief Justice maria Lourdes sereno ordered that the flags in the supreme Court and all courts nationwide be flown at half-mast. the family said Corona succumbed to cardiac arrest at 1:48 a.m. April 29. his family appealed for prayers.

Corona served as Chief Justice from may 17, 2010 to may 29, 2012.

Former Chief Justice Renato Corona.

DATELINE

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file photo

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

New report shows olderadult Asian Americans face language, income, educational barriers ALthoUGh Asian Americans are widely perceived as the model minority, a new report containing disaggregated data of older adults in the ethnic group paints a completely different picture.

In Los Angeles County, Asian Americans and Native hawaiian Pacific Islanders (NhPI) aged 50 and older are the second fastest growing racial group, posting a 56 percent and 50 percent growth rate from 2000 to 2010, respectively. Asian Americans and NhPIs fall only second and third to Latinos, who grew at a rate of 60 percent during the same 10-year period.

Asian Americans also account for more

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US Congress: More naval operations in South China Sea

AmID the ongoing territorial dispute in the south China sea, members of Congress asked the Us administration on Wednesday, April 27, to strengthen naval operation in the contested island. the continuous aid is part of the Philippines-Us ties and just this month, the annual Balikatan exercises was held to strengthen military operations. Us Defense secretary Ash Carter also made his first visit to witness the exercises which involved navy ships and military aircraft.

Bob Corker of tennessee, Chairman of the senate foreign relations Committee, stated that the freedom of navigation exercises have

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Binay dares rivals to waive rights to bank secrecy by helen

Flores

Philstar.com

mANILA — Vice President Jejomar Binay reiterated his challenge to fellow presidential candidates to allow the Anti-money Laundering Council (AmLC) to look into their bank accounts, as well as those of their spouses and children. the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) standardbearer Wednesday, April 27, made the call following reports that presidential frontrunner Davao City mayor rodrigo Duterte did not declare in his statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (sALN) some P211 million he allegedly deposited in a local bank.

Last month, Binay signed a waiver allowing the AmLC to open his and his family’s bank accounts. the waiver also stated that Binay was willing to submit himself to a lifestyle and government service and performance check.

UNA communications director Joey salgado said if

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EARLY VOTERS. Members of media cast their votes at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Intramuros, Manila on Thursday, April 28. Journalists, soldiers and policemen who will be deployed on May 9 are allowed to vote earlier than regular voters.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma

Pacquiao shrugs off Sayyaf threat: Our Muslim brothers won’t do that

campaign on thursday, April 28, Pacquiao said he was surprised but he remains confident that sArANGANI rep. and sena- his muslim brothers and sisters torial hopeful manny Pacquiao would not do such a thing on the said he was not alarmed by re- internationally renowned boxer. ports that the Abu sayyaf group “Noong una kong narinig iyan has planned to take him hostage nagulat ako kasi kaibigan naman to attract the attention of the Is- natin lahat especially ang mga lamic state (Is). kapatid nating muslim at tinutuIn an interview in Los Baños, lungan natin lahat ng mga nanLaguna where the United Nation- gangailangan ng tulong,” Pacalist Alliance (UNA) took their quiao said.

by Marc Jayson

cayabyab

Inquirer.net

Businessmen press Duterte on economic team, investment policy, ‘socialism’ by aMy

r. reMo and nancy c. carvaJal Inquirer.net

well as 100 members of the media at a forum hosted by the mBC and management Association of the Philippines (mAP) on Wednesday.

mANILA — Perennial latecomer Davao City mayor rodrigo Duterte arrived on time for his appointment with the makati Business Club on Wednesday, April 27, but despite his punctuality, the businessmen failed to hear what he was invited for — details such as who would be in his Cabinet and his economic advisers, and what he would do to ease business procedures. the leading presidential candidate was vocal about his advocacy to wage a “harsh campaign” against criminality and drugs before roughly 600 businessmen and company executives, as Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte

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Inquirer file photo / Grig C. Montegrande

“Hindi ako naniniwala na gagawin iyan ng ating mga kapatid na muslim,” he added.

Pacquiao said the report prompted him to beef up his security to protect his family from the alleged threats.

“Bali, may mga security naman tayo at dinagdagan natin iyong security pati sa mga bata at pamilya,” Pacquiao said.

“Naniniwala naman kami na

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A APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

Former Chief Justice Corona passes…

PAGE A1 t

He was the 23rd Chief Justice of the Philippines.

His appointment as Chief Justice was marred with controversy after it was made within the appointment ban or a month before President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term expired. Critics branded it as a “midnight appointment.”

The appointment was de-

nounced by then presidential candidate and now President Benigno Aquino III. After Aquino won, he refused to recognize Corona, bumped off tradition and took his oath of office before then Supreme Court Associate Justice, now Ombudsman, Conchita Carpio-Morales.

But the SC, in the case of Arturo M. De Castro v. Judicial and Bar

Council, affirmed the President’s right as an incumbent president to appoint the Chief Justice. Voting 9-1, the high court said the 90-day period for the President to fill the vacancy in the SC is a special provision and that the appointment ban does not extend to the SC. Corona was the first official to be removed from office by impeachment, ending a two-year rift with President Aquino.

The former Chief Justice attributed his impeachment to the SC’s decision unanimously awarding Hacienda Luisita—a 6,400-hectare sugar estate owned by the family of President Aquino–to its tenant farmers who had been demanding for decades that the property come under the agrarian reform program.

A year after he was impeached, Senator Jinggoy Estrada revealed that lawmakers received their respective Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), or pork barrel, ahead of Corona’s conviction, which the Palace has denied. n

MOBBED. Vice presidential candidate Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. was given a rockstar welcome when he visited the University of Eastern Philippines in Catarman, Samar where thousands of people warmly received his message for national unity.

Senate photo

Binay…

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the Vice President’s rivals really have nothing to hide, they should submit themselves to AMLC probe.

Salgado also urged Binay’s opponents to release their SALN and income tax returns.

“Sadly, none of them responded,” he said.

Salgado said Duterte’s camp had earlier claimed that the mayor had signed a waiver that would allow his bank accounts to be examined.

Last March 14, Duterte and his runningmate Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano signed a manifesto stating that they “pledge to open all our bank accounts in local and foreign currencies both here and abroad in the interest of transparency and accountability.”

“But Duterte now refuses to sign a waiver for the AMLC to look into the existence of a joint account in the Bank of the Philippine Islands he allegedly shared with his daughter Sara Duterte,” Salgado said.

“Is this (waiver) only a press release?” he said.

AMLC already investigated Binay’s bank accounts. n

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From the Front page

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016

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US Congress: More naval operations in…

PAGE A1 t

not slowed China’s land reclamation efforts in the South China Sea. “Neither the rhetoric nor the freedom of navigation operations have deterred or slowed down China’s land reclamation activities, including the stationing of military-related assets on these artificial islands,” Corker said.

According to him, an international court rule can make China take further actions in seizing the disputed islands and could place American interests at risk. China claims most of the territory in the South China Sea which hosts

several islands like the Spratlys, Paracels and the Scarborough Shoal despite the protests of other countries like Taiwan, Vietnam and most especially, the Philippines.

China’s claim had included more than 3,000 acres of land and constructing airstrips, ports and radar stations. Recent reports by The Washington Post and The Wall Street says China might be considering plans to develop other areas beyond Spratlys Island.

“As long as the United States remains fully present in the region, any tactical advantage

that China derives from some of these outposts will be vastly outweighed by the net effect of surrounding itself with increasingly angry, increasingly suspicious neighbors who are increasingly close to the United States,” Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

A tougher US support would hamper China’s plans for the disputed islands according to the Congress—at the same time nurturing more the relationship between the United States and the Philippines.(Ian Jamotillo / AJPress)

Pacquiao shrugs off Sayyaf threat…

PAGE A1 t ang Panginoon ay gagabayan kami at saka hindi namin maisip iyan dahil kaibigan naman namin ang lahat. Ang ginagawa namin is tumutulong sa mga mahihirap na tao especially ang mga brothers natin na Muslim,” he added.

Pacquiao said that the alleged plot should have been told to him

by President Aquino much earlier and in secret.

“Sa akin lang, kung iyan ang talagang intelligence report dapat sinabi sa akin nang sikreto at hindi i-aannounce at sabihin sa akin in advance. May doubt pa rin ako pero di naman natin binabalewala. I doubt na magagawa yan ng mga brother Muslims natin,” Pacquiao said.

Aquino first revealed the alleged plot of the Abu Sayyaf to abduct Pacquiao and presidential sister Kris Aquino after the bandits beheaded Canadian John Ridsdel.

Aquino said the Abu Sayyaf, whose leaders pledged allegiance to the IS, also planned to execute him and stage bombings in Metro Manila to attract the attention of the international ter-

Manny Pacquiao

rorist group and gain access to the funds of the jihadists.

The president said government forces were able to thwart the Abu Sayyaf’s plans.

Ridsdel was one of four people abducted by the Abu Sayyaf on the Island Garden City of Samal island off Davao City in September 2015.

His head was found wrapped in a plastic bag on the streets of Sulu on Monday.

The terrorist group earlier de-

DFA cuts by half target turnout…

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“I was initially encouraged by the fervent enthusiasm of many Filipinos about this year’s national elections as represented on social media. Unfortunately, increased activity on social media does not elect national leaders.

I challenge all overseas voters to go out and cast their votes as soon as possible and before May 9,” said Ambassador Tago in a

statement issued by the DFA. The Philippine embassy in Moscow has allowed Filipino overseas voters to cast their ballots there even if they were registered in Hong Kong.

The new Commission on Elections rule provides that all Filipino registered overseas voters with active status may vote in any of the embassies and consulates near their current residence or work. n

manded a P300-million ransom for each of the hostages.

For his part, UNA standard bearer Vice President Jejomar Binay said he is one of those protective of Pacquiao who recently placed third in the opinion poll results.

“Lagi ako nasa kaliwa tinitignan ko dahil sa Pacman yata ito at nagbigay ng malaking istorya sa Pilipinas,” Binay said of Pacquiao, his lone senator bet who has a big chance of securing a seat in the Senate.

Binay said, as a graduate of a degree on national security, he found it suspicious that the administration failed to inform Pacquiao early on about the plot to take him hostage.

The vice president said the administration may be bringing up the issue to bury reports that they were giving out money to voters one week before the elections.

“Alam mo, mayroon akong, I have to say, a Master’s degree in National Security Administration. Katataka-taka ang ganyan.

Government official iyan at saka talagang mahal ng Pilipino iyan.

Noong unang mangyari, iyan, noong unang lumabas iyan, dapat ininform nila kaagad ang end niya. Kung may nadisgrasya at totoo pala, biro mo naman iyon, hindi nila sinabihan kaagad iyong tao. There is something fishy about it,” Binay said.

“Kahit magtanong ka sa mga intelligence officer, ang security kaagad ng taong may threat. Sasabihin, ‘Mag-ingat ka, mag-lie low ka muna…’ Baka naman sila ay may pinagtatakpan na pangyayari kaya naman pinapalitan ang topic… Kung paano sila mamigay ng pera. Pera ng bayan kapag halalan,” he added. n

LABORACAY. As certain as the deadline of the filing of tax returns every April 15 is this event just around the corner, “Laboracay,” which is held on the weekend closest to Labor Day. It is dubbed the “spring break of the Philippines,” and people flock to the pristine blue waters and stretching shoreline, and the sleepless clubs and hotels in Boracay.

Inquirer.net photo

Businessmen press Duterte on economic…

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The MBC and MAP said the gathering was bigger than the presidential dialogues with Mar Roxas and Sen. Grace Poe. The business community, however, found that Duterte did not mention plans for the economy and his policies regarding investments, foreign ownership, measures to ease doing business in the country, among other things.

MBC chair Ramon del Rosario said he would like to hear more about Duterte’s economic policies and programs.

“I think what he said to us is that he was very clearly passionate about doing things in the law and order side, which we already know, but he chose to spend his entire time focusing on that practically.”

“He will go in and out on education, but he kept going back to the theme of dealing with criminals in a very decisive way. I think that message came across strongly in a way that’s positive that criminals will be on the lookout if he becomes President. But I think we have to also be concerned about making sure that the rule of law continues to prevail,” he said.

He also talked about the uncertainty of the business community in a Duterte presidency.

“We wanted to know what kind of economic team he will put together and where he will bring the economy. This was an opportunity we hoped for him to talk about his economic policies and programs but he chose to focus totally on law and order.

So that was the part that was not

completely fulfilled,” Del Rosario told reporters when asked to comment on Duterte’s speech.

Del Rosario said he also wanted to be clarified on Duterte’s claims of being a socialist as he sought to better understand what the role of the private sector would be under a Duterte presidency.

“But the way he was talking about bringing in business for infrastructure development and assistance in health programs, I think in his mind, it was very clear that he’s willing to work with the private sector. The important thing is for him to accept our friendship and support if we get that opportunity to work together if he does become our President,” Del Rosario said.

PLDT chair Manuel V. Pangilinan described Duterte’s speech as good. “I thought it was OK.” “This is the first time I’ve heard him speak and give a speech. It’s very interesting. I just listened and I think he’s trying to reveal himself… He is a decisive person,” Pangilinan added.

MAP president Perry Pe said Duterte was clear about his agenda on peace and order.

“He was passionate about his advocacy, close to being emotional about it…. But I would have wanted him to expound more on agriculture, on ease of doing business, among other issues. I guess, as far as he’s concerned, those (issues) will automatically (be resolved) if criminality is solved,” Pe said.

Ernesto M. Ordoñez, who chairs the Alyansa Agrikultura, was relieved that agriculture “was not forgotten.”

“He said it was No. 3 on his agenda and we like that,” Ordoñez said.

Del Rosario is quite concerned about the kind of people who will be in Duterte’s Cabinet, who will surround him in power and who will advise him on the economy.

“We are all going to wait and see how things unfold. A lot of it will be about the kind of Cabinet, for example, that he will form.

Who are his key advisers, who are really not known to us, and who are the people whom he will rely on for advice on things like economic programs and social programs of government. When we know those things, I think we will be in a better position to figure out how his administration will perform and the things to look out for in his administration,’’ Del Rosario said.

Del Rosario said that the stock market has been reacting “with some degree of anxiety because … he is not a well-known personality and not a very well known factor.’’

“A lot of people are really waiting to find out more about him and what he will actually do if he does become president of this country. I think the things we talked about earlier, like the team he will form, will be very critical. It will either assure people or get people more worried … Who will be his economic team, who will be his main adviser, who will be his executive secretary, who will be the people around him and what kind of advice are they likely to give him. Those are the kinds of things that people will watch out for,’’ Del Rosario said. n

A APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

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US Navy turns over research vessel to the Philippines

CONSUL General Leo HerreraLim represented the Philippine Government at the Handover, Christening and Commissioning Ceremonies of the BRP Gregorio Velasquez (AGR 702) held at the 52nd US Naval Base in San Diego, California on Wednesday, April 29.

The simple ceremonies were attended by Department of Defense Undersecretary Jesus C. Milan; Commander US 3rd Fleet V/Adm Nora Tyson; Scripps Institution of Oceanography Director Dr. Margaret Leinen; Philippine Fleet Deputy Commander Commodore Narciso Vingson; Commander Sealift Amphibious Force Commodore Rene Medina; BRP Velasque Commanding Officer Commander Edwin Nera and Defense Attaché Eric Calip.

Consul General Herrera-Lim in his remarks, highlighted the significance of the handover of the vessel during the year that we celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the US and as we renew our mutual commitment to our shared values of democracy, furtherance of scientific research and the preservation of our way of life.

Vice Admiral Tyson in her remarks, highlighted the strong relationship between the Philippines and the United States, particularly their Armed Forces, and the Mutual Defense Treaty con-

Photo shows signing ceremony represented by Commander US 3rd Fleet Vice Admiral Nora Tyson and Consul General Herrera-Lim officially handing over of BRP Velasquez to the Philippine Government.

tinues to be the bedrock of the two countries’ relationship.

“The Philippines is and will remain a vital strategic ally in the region for the foreseeable future, and I am proud to play a part in that relationship,” said Tyson. “Today, we not only transfer a platform that will enhance the Philippines’ environmental research and law enforcement capabilities but will also contribute to the security and stability of the region.”

Commodore Vingson, in his keynote speech, highlighted the significance to the Philippine Navy of the newly acquired ves-

sel in terms of carrying out its mandate. He also gave the historic orders on the assumption

by CDR Edwin Nera of the Command of BRP Velasquez and the Setting of the First Watch.

The BRP Velasquez, an oceanographic research ship was acquired by the Philippines under the US Excess Defense Articles (EDA). The new vessel is named after National Scientist and eminent UP Professor Gregorio Velasquez.

The BRP Velasquez has 9 officers and 20 crew members led

by CDR. Edwin M. Nera. n

GRADUATION SYMBOL. A plot of sunflowers—a sign that another batch of students on the University of the Philippines campus in Diliman is about to graduate—thrives under the watch of Robert dela Cruz who makes sure that they get plenty of sun and water.

Inquirer.net photo by Edwin Bacasmas

New report shows older-adult Asian Americans…

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than 480,000 of LA County’s 50and-older population. Yet despite popular belief that the heterogenous ethnic segment is wealthier and more educated, a report released Wednesday, April 27, by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Los Angeles (Advancing Justice – LA), recorded findings that indicated otherwise.

“[Asian Pacific Islander] older adults are incredibly vulnerable,” said Connie Chung Joe, executive director of Korean American Family Services, during the launch of the report on Wednesday at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles. “They face enormous barriers to access and care due to many of the reasons we saw today – language, education lack of health care, stigma, etcetera.”

Among findings include that among seniors, Asian Americans are the most likely of all racial groups to rely on Supplemental Security Income, with 35 percent of Cambodians and 34 percent of Vietnamese at the top of the list.

Older Asian Americans are also less likely than Whites to be homeowners; nearly 300,000 older-adult Asian americans in LA County are limited English proficient; older-adult Cambodians and Vietnamese have the lowest levels of educational attainment; and Korean and Cambodian Americans are more likely to live below the poverty line and have low-income status.

“Without this data, we’re kind of blind to what are the real issues,” said Stewart Kwoh, president and executive director of Advancing Justice - LA. “That’s why AARP and Advancing Justice - LA teamed up. We thought by disaggregating this data and collecting the data, we could give educators, faith-based groups

[and] non-profits the information they need to better educate and advocate your broader constituencies.”

For the Filipino community, housing for older adults is among one of the bigger challenges. Thirty-nine percent of the group spends more than 30 percent of its income on housing costs, while 20 percent of Filipinos in LA County spends more than 50 percent of its income these costs.

As a result, the group resorts to temporary solutions while waiting for affordable housing.

Amy Phillips, director of senior services at the Little Tokyo Service Center and co-chair of the Asian Pacific Policy and Planning Council’s Older Adults Task Force, said Filipino seniors often room together and even live with their children and grandchildren.

“But they see the economic pressure that their adult children are under and there’s quite a bit of pressure on the seniors to earn their keep. And sometimes it affects their health and mental health because they feel so much burden, so much pressure to do everything they can for the family. Even in retirement, it’s definitely not any kind of retirement as people imagine,” Phillips said.

Filipinos were also the second most populous Asian American

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016

A

Call for nominations to the 2016 Presidential Awards NOMINATIONS for the 2016 Presidential Awards are still ongoing! The Awards seek to honor and recognize overseas Filipinos and organizations who best exemplify the time-honored Filipino values of pakikipagkapwa (empathy), pagtutulungan (cooperation), and pagkakaisa (unity).

Four hundred thirty-seven (437) overseas Filipino individuals, organizations and foreign partners have been conferred with the Presidential Awards.

There are four categories to which an individual or organization may be nominated, namely: • Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) Award – This award is conferred on Filipino associations or individuals for their exceptional or significant contribution to reconstruction, progress, and develSLIDEFEST. Last April 16 and 17, 2016, over 9,000 people flocked to Filinvest City, Alabang, for a weekend of worry-free fun under the sun. Thousands came to slip, slide and experience Nivea Slidefest. The Nivea Slidefest featured big, bouncy inflatables that look like a giant obstacle course.

Philstar.com photo

Dateline PhiliPPines

PH’s first microsatellite Diwata-1 now in orbit to observe weather patterns

by Michael Joe

T. Delizo

ManilaTimes.net

DIWATA–1, the Philippines first microsatellite, has started its duty as the country’s eye in the sky after it was successfully deployed into space Wednesday night.

It was released into orbit at around 7 p.m. from the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM), nicknamed “Kibo,” where it was housed since it reached the International Space Station (ISS) late last month.

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (Jaxa), in Tsukuba Space Center, said the deployment of Diwata-1 marks the first foray of a 50-kg (size of a “balikbayan box”) class satellite from the JEM. Acknowledging this historical milestone, Jaxa noted that “the deployment of the microsatellite combines the only air lock

and robot arm in the ISS used in ‘Kibo’ operations, which, in the future, is expected to be one of the important means to meet the launch needs of microsatellites.”

The microsatellite was released by the JEM Small Satellite Orbital Deployer at an altitude of 400 kilometers from the earth’s surface.

Its mission is to capture photos and images from its main payload consisting of high precision telescope, spaceborne multispectral imager and wide field camera.

The telescope produces high resolution imaging for observing large-scale weather patterns while the imager is used for monitoring bodies of water and vegetation.

The camera, on the other hand, is used in observing large-scale weather patterns.

Diwata-1 is historic as it is designed, developed and assembled by Filipino scientists.

Binay, Poe lead in ad spending

by Tina

SanToS Inquirer.net

VICE President Jejomar Binay (left) and Senator Grace Poe. INQUIRER FILE PHOTOS Two presidential candidates have already breached half of the campaign spending limit set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), according to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ).

Citing Nielsen Media’s monitoring reports on campaign spending, the PCIJ said that from Feb. 9 to March 31, Vice President Jejomar “Jojo” Binay of the United Nationalist Alliance is the biggest spender so far among the presidential candidates in terms of campaign ad placements which had reached nearly P345 million.

Nielsen’s latest report covered the first 50 days of the official campaign and was based on the published rate cards for TV, radio, print, and outdoor ad placements.

Sen. Grace Poe, who is running as an independent candidate, came in second in campaign ads spending with P331.4 million for the same period.

“By the end of last month, thus, both Binay and Poe had managed to breach half the official spending limit for presidential bets based on Nielsen data alone, with Binay at 63.44 percent and Poe at 60.97 percent,” the PCIJ report said.

The official 90-day campaign period for national candidates began on Feb. 9.

The campaign-spending limits set by Comelec—P10 per regis-

tered voter for presidential and vice presidential posts; P5 per registered voter for independent senatorial candidates, as well as for political parties and party-list organizations; and P3 per registered voter for Senate bets from political parties—are in effect only during this period.

Comelec records show that as of Jan. 7, the country has a total of 54,363,844 registered voters.

“This means that for the May 9 polls, the campaign-spending limit for presidential and vice presidential aspirants is P543,638,440 per candidate; P271,819,220 for independent senatorial candidates, political parties, and party-list organizations; andP163,091,532 for senatorial candidates fielded by political parties,” PCIJ report said.

Former Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II of the Liberal Party (LP) was the third biggest spender on campaignad placements during the first 50 days of the campaign period. He spent a little more than P200 million on ad placements, or some P100 million less than what Poe spent.

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte of PDP-Laban spent a total of P110.36 million for campaign ads during the period.

“Then there are the ads featuring yet another candidate for president, Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, which cost the People’s Reform Party P59.14 million. Recorded by Nielsen as having aired from Feb. 9 to Mar. 31, the ads do not have Defensor’s name as payor,” the PCIJ said. n

New report shows older-adult…

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group for those aged 50 and older, with about 117,800 residing in LA County in 2010, according to data from the US Census Bureau. Data from the Bureau from 2009 to 2013 further indicated that foreign-born Filipinos were the largest Asian American ethnic group to enter the United States in 2000 or later.

The report, “A Community of Contrasts: Asian Americans 50 and Older,” provided an overview of the largest group of Asian Americans 50 years old and above in the United States.

However, among its limitations was that it did not provide more disaggregated data for the NHPI beyond basic demographic sections. (Agnes Constante/AJPress)

Aside from the microsatellite’s use in disaster-response mechanisms, agriculture and tourism, among others, it also marks a milestone in the country’s developing space program and a testament that local scientists can make their own microsatellite.

“The Diwata-1 might be a small satellite, but it represents

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opment in the Philippines; • Kaanib ng Bayan Award – This award is conferred on foreign individuals or organizations for their exceptional or significant contribution to Philippine reconstruction, progress, and development, or have significantly benefited a sector or community in the Philippines, or advanced the cause of overseas Filipino communities; • Banaag Award – This award is conferred on Filipino individuals or associations for their significant contribution to advancing the cause or promoting the interests of overseas Filipino communities; and • Pamana ng Pilipino Award – This award is conferred on Overseas Filipino individuals who, in exemplifying the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought

the country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession.

The CFO Awards were institutionalized in 1991 under E.O. 498, issued by former President Corazon Aquino, to help identify and recognize those who have selflessly supported relief, rehabilitation, and/or development programs in the Philippines.

Nominations must be submitted on or before May 27, 2016 to the Awards Committee at the Philippine Consulate General, 447 Sutter Street 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108. For rules on filing out of nominations, nomination forms, evaluation forms and other information about the awards, please visit www.cfo.gov.ph or email presidentialawards@cfo.gov.ph. n

Filipino student among the winners of NASA’s design challenge

TUASON (pictured holding the certificate of recognition) poses for a photo together with his professor and teammates from the University of Illinois.

Another talented Filipino has made waves internationally, as college student Jose Mari Tuason was among the awardees of the first Breakthrough, Innovative and Game-changing (BIG) Idea Challenge hosted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) earlier this week.

Tuason, together with his teammates from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, bested other competitors from top US colleges including Georgia Tech, The State University of New York at Buffalo and Purdue University, inside NASA’s Lang-

ley Research Center.

Citing reports from The Filipino Times, the contest solicited innovative ideas which would help increase the lift-to-drag ratio of NASA’s inflatable spacecraft invention, the Hypersonic

Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (HIAD).

Tuason and his crew clinched victory after convincing a panel of space exploration experts with their flawless version on how to

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Dateline PhiliPPines

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Headless body turned over to Canadian embassy

by CeCille

Suerte Philstar.com

Felipe

MANILA — The headless body of a man who looks like a Caucasian, believed to be Canadian John Ridsdel, has been turned over to the Canadian embassy.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ricardo Marquez said the headless body, which was found in Barangay Gata, Talipao in Sulu, was flown to Heritage Park in Taguig yesterday morning.

Marquez said police Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) conducted the autopsy on the body at the Heritage Park.

Ridsdel was one of four hostages held by the Abu Sayyaf since last September.

The kidnappers had issued a ransom deadline that lapsed Monday. His severed head was found in a plastic bag along a street in Jolo town.

On Wednesday, a headless cadaver of a Caucasian male was found in Talipao but authorities have yet to confirm if it was Ridsdel’s.

There was no indication that the victim was beheaded in the area where it was found “due to the absence of blood stains in the scene,” according to a police investigator.

Ridsdel was among four hostages taken by the Abu Sayyaf in Samal Island last September.

The three remaining hostages – fellow Canadian Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sikkengstad and Filipina Maritess Flor – are still being held by the bandit group, along with other foreigners, including 14 crewmen of an Indonesian tugboat. Four Malaysian seamen are also being held.

President Aquino has promised to devote his remaining days in office to crushing the Abu Sayyaf. Fourteen bandits have been killed in continued shelling of their stronghold in Jolo since Tuesday, a military spokesman said.

The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) yesterday condemned the murder of Ridsdel.

“AmCham extends its deepest condolences to the Ridsdel fam-

Image from an undated Abu Sayyaf video shows Canadians John Ridsdel (right) and Robert Hall.

ily, friends and others close to this remarkable man,” the group said in a statement.

AmCham said Ridsdel was well known to the American business community in Manila, where he was based for many years.

“He was a strong believer in the development of the Philippines, to which he contributed as the senior executive of a mining company known for its highly responsible practices,” AmCham said.

“John Ridsdel had decided to retire in the Philippines. He made many friends among many nationalities and loved to sail among the islands from his base at Puerto Galera. It was when he responded from his boat moored on Samal Island to a call for help from a neighboring boat that he was seized,” it said.

AmCham joined the call on the government to bring the killers of Ridsdel to justice and to implement policies that will bring improved security and peace and development to areas in Mindanao where the Abu Sayyaf and other criminal elements operate.

Officials, on the other hand, are discussing coordinated naval patrols on its southern maritime borders with Indonesia and Malaysia to protect shipping after attacks and kidnappings by Islamist militants.

Foreign Secretary Jose Rene Almendras said the government is proposing separate but coordinated patrols to identify safe corridors where ships can travel.

Indonesia last week called for joint maritime patrols with the Philippines and Malaysia. Joint patrols would involve ships from the three navies patrolling together and crossing into each other’s territorial waters.

Officials from the three sides

PROOF, HE SAYS. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte deals in hundreds of millions of pesos, records of his bank transactions show.

Transactions amounting to P2.407 billion and involving 17 accounts of Duterte in three banks (two in Metro Manila and one in Davao) were recorded over a nine-year period, documents provided by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV to the Inquirer showed.

Inquirer.net photo by Lyn Rillon

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Robredo biggest ad spender: P237.2M

by Jaime

r. pilapil

AMLC sues Philrem for money laundering by patriCia lourdeS Philstar.com

Viray

ManilaTiames.net

D E SPITE her claim that she has no money to fund her campaign, C a m a rines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo emerged as the big- Leni Robredo gest advertising spender among the six vice presidential bets.

A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism that quoted Nielsen Media’s monitoring data said Robredo had spent P237.2 million since the start of the campaign period in February until the end of March.

The P237.2 million advertising expense also covered ads with Liberal Party presidential bet Manuel Roxas 2nd. The money is equivalent to 43.63 percent of the allowed amount for her entire campaign.

Under the rules of the Commission on Elections, a presidential and vice presidential candidate are each allowed to spend P10 for each registered voter. With 54,363,844 voters, the spend-

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Filipino student…

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improve HIAD’s lifting capabilities on space stations.

Led by their professor Zachery Putnam, the bright students left the judges in awe by demonstrating a combination of moveable mass and cable system, which morphed the HIAD shape and provided it with direct lift control.

Among those impressed by the groups’ feat was Acting Director of Game Changing Development (GCD) Program, Mary Wusk. n

MANILA — The Anti-Money Laundering Council on Thursday filed charges against officers of Philippine Remittance Co. (Philrem) for its alleged involvement in laundering $81 million stolen by hackers from the Bangladesh central bank.

The council filed a joint complaint-affidavit against Salud Bautista, Michael Bautista and Anthony Pelejo for violating Republic Act 9160 or the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001.

This is the third complaint filed before the Department of Justice in connection with the cyber heist of funds from Bangladesh.

The first complaint was against former RCBC branch manager Maia Santos-Deguito and four other respondents who were the supposed owners of bank accounts where the funds from the Bank of Bangladesh were reportedly wired.

The second case was against businessmen Kam Sin Wong (Kim Wong) and Weikang Xu. Wong allegedly laundered about $21.6 million while some $59.2

Salud Bautista, left, President of Philrem, a remittance company, testifies in the continuing Philippine Senate probe on the $81million of Bangladesh’s stolen funds that were transmitted online to four private accounts at a branch of the Rizal Commercial and Banking Corporation or RCBC Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at suburban Pasay city south of Manila, Philippines. The Government’s Anti-Money Laundering Council received on Monday P200 million pesos more ($4.34 million) from Kam Sin Wong, a junket casino operator in the Philippines, which were allegedly stolen by cyber criminals from the Bangladesh central bank’s account in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and transmitted to fictitious bank accounts in the Philippines.

Deguito is one of the central figures in the ongoing probe. At right is Salud Bautista’s husband Michael also of Philrem. AP/Bullit Marquez

million went to Xu. The DOJ has started its preliminary investigation into the money laundering charges in the first two cases.

The Bureau of Internal Rev-

enue, meanwhile, has filed tax evasion charges against Philrem for its “willful” non-payment of gross receipts and percentage taxes from 2005 to 2014 amounting to P35.61 million. n

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the dreams and aspirations of the Philippines, as far as making space technology work for the Filipino,” said Joel Joseph Marciano, director of the Advanced Science and Technology Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in a press conference at the Tsukuba Space Center.

“A lot of kids in the Philippines before [would] think of space as part of science fiction. But what this means is that for our young engineers and scientists in the Philippines, given enough support, can actually achieve what first-world countries are doing with technology,” Fidel Nemenzo, vice chancellor for Research and Development of the Univer-

sity of the Philippines-Diliman, added.

Meanwhile, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Cuisia, Jr. said the launch of Diwata-1 is “not only a giant leap for Philippine science and technology. It could also provide Philippine policy makers with the scientific data and information needed to formulate policies relating to disaster mitigation, agricultural productivity, and management of land and water resources.”

Diwata-1 is expected to be in orbit for approximately 20 months and will be imaging the country twice daily.

Along with the microsatellite development is the installation of the satellite ground receiving

station, named Philippine Earth Data Resources Observation (Pedro).

Located in Subic, Zambales, Pedro is tasked to receive Diwata-1 imagery, including other images from selected commercial satellites.

Another space-related facility under construction is the UPDiliman Microsatellite Research and Instructional facility which will be the hub of training for future space technology research and development activities.

Philippines’ second microsatellite, Diwata-2, will be deployed in late 2017 or early 2018.

The two microsatellites and the ground station are part of a three-year P840.82-million microsat program. n

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Dateline PHiliPPineS

Larry Pagauitan: putting Santa Maria, Isabela on the map

by Charisse

Trinidad

AJPress

HILARIO “Larry” G. Pagauitan visualizes an upcoming project for the municipality of Santa Maria, located in the Isabela Province within Region II. According to the 2010 census, Santa Maria has a population of 22,939 people, and is known to have the finest pottery in Luzon. “[The purpose of] Pasto Di Apolonio would be to put the province of Isabela on the map as the most preferred world-class eco/agri- tourism destination,” Pagauitan, a developer who is also running for mayor of the town, shared.

Pagauitan’s plan aims to ensure a balance of facilities and a variety of amenities to afford an exceptional guest experience in a sustainable manner with much consideration of the areas of business, operations and the environment.

Pasto Di Apolonio plans to revitalize and grow the local economy, providing diverse employment and training opportunities, and attracting additional quality tourism to the area. The scale and complexity of the development will necessitate breaking down of the overall scheme into several mini-master plans to create smaller scale areas with unique characters.

The development envisions

Headless body…

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are due to meet in Jakarta on May 5 to discuss cooperation.

“The issue is safety and security,” Almendras said.

“It’s called coordinated patrols, we’ll do our patrols and they will have their own patrols in their own territorial waters so there will be no more threats to the movement of ships, including the kidnapping of sailors.”

Two Indonesian coal ports have blocked ships from leaving for the Philippines and Malaysia’s eastern Sabah state due to security concerns.

The growing frequency of maritime attacks has affected coal trade between the Southeast Asian neighbors – Indonesia, the world’s largest thermal coal exporter, and the Philippines, which relies on Jakarta for 70 percent of its coal imports. (With Roel Pareño)

Larry Pagauitan

to capture both local and international tourists attracted to the location and its special amenities will encourage them to stay longer and discover more services available to them.

Pagauitan received his Bachelor of Science in geology from Adamson University, in Malate, Manila. Realizing that pursuing a career in geology would bring about lasting change, his first job was as a geologist for Multi Ore Mines in 1978. Destined to not only work for just one company, Pagauitan expanded his talent by becoming a consultant and trader for various mining companies.

His accomplishments did not stop there. In 1993, Pagauitan was appointed as the CEO and president of several mining companies. This was the best way to show others his hard work and

AJPress photo by Godwin Gasaco

determination.

In addition to developing Santa Maria on a business level, Pagauitan continues to give back to the municipality through public service. In 2014, he was elected barangay captain of Calamagui North, a position that motivated him to run for Mayor of Santa Maria, Isabela.

Pagauitan’s purpose as mayor is not only to help the people of Santa Maria but to build new municipal halls and markets so that the people of Santa Maria do not feel that their town is outdated and obsolescent.

“The province and property will hopefully become an attraction to Balikbayans and tourists,” he proclaimed. “This attraction will be one of a kind, maintaining an eco-friendly environment.” n

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OpiniOn

Features

Waiving secrecy

WITH bank deposits of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in the spotlight, Sen. Grace Poe said she was ready to sign a waiver on the secrecy of her bank accounts. Administration presidential candidate Manuel Roxas II announced the same thing the other day, with his running mate Leni Robredo following suit yesterday. Vice President Jejomar Binay has been daring his rivals to sign such a waiver since the second presidential debate in March. Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, who champions transparency and good governance, can be expected to go along.

Perhaps the Commission on Elections can seize the moment and institutionalize this kind of transparency at least among candidates seeking national office. If legislation is needed, members of the incoming Congress must not hesitate in passing such a law.

Public officials are already required by law to submit statements of assets, liabilities and net worth. The SALNs are expected to be accurate and truthful, on pain of dismissal from office and criminal prosecution for lying. It’s just a small step from declaring assets to providing more details through the opening of bank deposits.

The waiver of secrecy rules should also allow banks to show the history of transactions of the depositor, in case bank accounts are cleaned out

before being bared to the public.

Since vice presidents automatically succeed in case the president dies or is incapacitated, the same requirement must be applied for those aspiring for the nation’s second highest post. As of Friday, April 29, the Liberal Party’s Leni Robredo was leading the way, announcing she was waiving secrecy laws on her bank deposits.

In the wake of the scandal over the misuse of the congressional pork barrel, the Comelec should also consider including candidates for the Senate in the bank waiver requirement. In this campaign, everyone is mouthing platitudes about commitment to transparency and good governance. Those who win on May 9 must show that their commitment can go beyond campaign rhetoric. (Philstar.com)

Guest Editorial

Philstar.com photo

The Filipino Channel hosts town hall on the Philippine presidential election THERE are less than nine days left before you either go to a Philippine Consulate/Embassy, or mail your absentee voter’s ballot to cast your vote on the next president, vice president, senators, and other elected officials of the Philippines.

Have you made up your mind on the candidates to vote for?

If you are still an undecided voter or may be leaning toward certain candidates but are still doing your due diligence in learning more about them, then please watch The Filipino Channel’s special town hall presentation: The Fil-Am Vote: Halalan 2016.

Get to know the background of each presidential aspirant The Fil-Am through a comprehensive report by our Canada Correspon- Perspective dent Marieton Pacheco. Find out the stands and plans of each of these candidates, in their own words, on how to address the very issues that matter to us Gel SantoS-ReloS Fil-Ams: corruption, the needs and problems of overseas Filipino workers, and the Philippines territorial dispute versus China.

Be informed through the incisive reports on this

issues as presented to us by Balitang America’s broadcast journalists Paul Henson, Henni Espinosa, and Don Tagala.

Watch representatives of each candidate speak on their behalf in a substantive and spirited discussion. Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is represented by Atty. Adnan Alonton, community leader Art Garcia for Sen. Grace Poe, youth leader Julius Fernandez for Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago, Daly City Commissioner Ray Satorre for VP Jejomar

Binay, and Atty. Ted Laguatan for Former DILG Sec. Mar Roxas. Hear the probing questions of the studio audience addressed to these speakers.

I am moderating this town hall forum.

Make an informed decision in this election.

Watch it this Sunday, May 1, at 5:00 pm on The Filipino Channel. Vote wisely. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Celebrating CSUN’s Dept. of Asian American Is Duterte unstoppable, or will Studies: legacy of purpose and love of education Binay or Roxas spring a surprise?

“TO our invaluable founders and distinguished community guests, I want to acknowledge, Rhizomes [as] our student attendees, and everyone in our alumni community. Earlier, I raised the question, “What good is a revolution without a sense of purpose?” Prosy AbArquezWell, I say YOU, our students, DelAcruz, J.D. are the heartbeat of our purpose. You will always be the source of our joy, our reason to get up each morning, and our reason to embrace our calling as educators. I, for one, am proud to embrace all of you not just as comrades, but as dear friends, and members of a community family. On behalf of my colleagues, no matter what happens tomorrow or for the rest of our lives, our hearts are full of joy right now because you’re here, and we love you. Tonight we reverently honor our past as we celebrate our hopes for the future.” –Allan Aquino, California State University, Northridge (CSUN) professor.

“My gratitude goes out to the department for this award. To the faculty who have stimulated me intellectually and have challenged me to be a better student. My family also gets credit too, they’ve helped shape me into who I am today and they’ve given me purpose. To my friends / classmates / colleagues in the department, I deeply value the time I’ve spent with all of you: the good and the bad.

Life wouldn’t be much good if we didn’t [have] the bad things to work out. And in my time, I’ve come to learn that there’s a lot [of] bad in this world to work out. AAS [Asian American Studies] taught me to embrace the bad as a challenge- to not let the bad define me and how I perceive others. Structural and systemic racism is quite the beast and I’ve learned that, in the pursuit of social justice, there may be fear, but there cannot be cowardice. There can only be courage.” – Lorenzo Mutia, CSUN student and recipient of the Enrique Delacruz Social Justice Award.

Provost Yi Li and Dean of Humanities Elizabeth Say attended the 25th anniversary at CSUN on April 23, along with 200 folks. Provost Li, who grew up during China’s Cultural Revolution, asserted that higher education is really a social justice issue.

Justifiably so, for without financial aid, grants, and scholarships, some working students are forced to drop out and not graduate.

Dean Say shared she was the first to go to college and obtain a graduate degree in her family. At CSUN, she “saw the department of Asian American Studies grow out of the grassroots, [where students] see themselves represented in the curriculum, faculty. [It] is one of my great joys and privileges as dean, to support the tremendous faculty and amazing students, who are more commit-

ted and so connected to the community.”

Enrique de la Cruz, Ph.D., professor emeritus and former department chair, attested to Say’s support in growing the department of Asian American Studies. He was recognized by Glen Omatsu, speaking of his journey as an expatriate, going from an immigrant from the Philippines to an Asian American leader and one of the chairs of the department who grew its faculty and curriculum during his tenure.

De la Cruz recognized the real founders of the department, who toiled before him: Kenyon Chan, George Uba, Bob Suzuki and the guidance of his mentors, Jorge Garcia and Elizabeth Say, enabling him to do two faculty searches for several years.

He underscored that the “educational system is the principal socializing system of a society, and if we don’t exist in that society’s curriculum, the rest of the society thinks we don’t exist. Asian American Studies owes it to its students, parents, community, it is really everybody, faculty, deans and staff.”

The department paid tribute to its founders: Bob Suzuki, George Uba, Laura Uba, Warren Furumoto, Gary Mayeda, Enrique de la Cruz, who came. Other founders who could not be there were also recognized: Kenyon Chan, Gordon Nakagawa, Michael Ego and Emily Lawsin.

Genesis of the Asian American Studies department at CSUN “The origins of the idea for an ad hoc committee came from Bob Suzuki. Later the ad hoc committee, composed of student leaders including Gary Mayeda, Sindy Saito, and faculty members Drs. Michael Ego, Warren Furumoto, George Uba, Laura Uba, Gordon Nakagawa, and Tim Dagodag drafted a position paper and worked to create curriculum for a new program in Asian American Studies. Typically, a program is created before a department can be instituted. But Chicana/o Studies Professor Jorge Garcia (seeing the battle Chicana/o Studies went through to establish itself) and Warren Furumoto, two faculty members, “insisted on the creation of the Department of Asian American Studies (AAS)”’, according to Professor Edith Chen, Ph.D. Suzuki threw in his full support, as he understood its importance, from his eight years of teaching at University of Massachusetts. Four hundred Asian Americans students, out of 25,000, were enrolled. Of that, about 80 percent of Asian Americans took his class in AAS, reportedly made an impact on their “motivation, identity and education.”

Faculty members then worked with CSUN’s Aca-

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The surveys FOR the most prudent of reasons, I have never accepted Opinion as gospel truth the claims of the paid propaganda surveys on the alleged standing of our national candidates. You don’t have to, either. I have a profound respect for scientific FrAncisco TATAD polling, but not for polls by fraudsters who make a killing every election by shamelessly proclaiming what 105 million Filipinos think of candidates they do not know, on the basis of alleged interviews with 1,200 respondents.

These are mainly “push polls,” “media call-in polls,” “biased interest-group polls,” all of which respectable professionals call “pseudo polls,” or “polls that stink.” They are fudged and manipulated. You could almost smell who’s paying, but they never say who they are. A foolish (stupid) court ruling protects the crooked pollsters from disclosing the identity of those who pay for their services, saying it is all “confidential.”

Thus the sponsors do not have to report to the Commission on Elections the enormous sums they pay for these surveys as part of their election expenses; the fraudsters do not have to report their income to the Bureau of Internal Revenue; and no law protects the public from those whose most harmful deception is automatically disseminated by the sinister and superficial media without critical analysis or judgment.

Now, these surveys threaten to decide the final outcome of the election—assuming elections— whether they accurately measure the candidates’ real popular standing or simply create a false media bubble about them. PDP candidate Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, who is considered the presidential frontrunner, appears to illustrate the first, while vice presidential candidate Leni Robredo seems to illustrate the second.

Duterte Whatever your feelings are about the deliberately provocative Davao mayor, you have to admit he has generated an impressive following, even among those who, on moral and religious grounds, should canonically be rabidly against him. His recent statements on rape and killing have shocked and outraged many, but his fanatical supporters will threaten you with possible martyrdom if you attack him on those statements.

He provoked worldwide furor by saying “the mayor should have been first” when recalling the gang-rape and murder of an Australian female missionary in Davao in 1989. But he continued to soar in the surveys. This remark attracted various interpretations, mostly protesting about his

foul mouth. But one young reader has since suggested that the remark showed, more than anything else, Duterte’s despotic and feudal bent—his subconscious belief in a “right” claimed by feudal lords and monarchs.

Right to be first This is called Jus Primae Noctis, in Latin; Droit du Seigneu (French); Das Recht der ersten Nacht (German); Derecho de Pernada (Spanish); Il dirrito feudale (Italian); the Law of the First Night (English. This means the right of the feudal landlord to sleep the first night with the bride of any one of his vassals. Ancient kings freely exercised this “right”; the Roman Senate gave Caesar absolute right over all the women.

Duterte, according to this view, was talking not as a sexual or violent pervert but as an absolute lord and master who believed in the law of the first night. How would you like someone like that for your President, my young reader asks.

But the survey respondents appear not to bother one bit.

Victory?

Now, whether his apparent popularity will translate into an electoral victory is a different matter altogether. This depends on a number of things.

First, can the Comelec still conduct a free, honest and credible election after its voters’ list has been hacked, and shown to have been padded from 54.3 million to 70 million voters?

The Comelec and the conscript media have tried to downplay the biggest hacking incident in our digital age, and then the padding of the list. But can a valid election ever be held on the basis of a questionable voters’ list?

Second, assuming the May 9 elections are held despite the questionable voters’ list, can the Duterte camp outmaneuver all the other players?

Everyone is trying to cheat everybody else, can Duterte outcheat all the others?

Third, will Duterte be able to sustain his “popularity edge” to support the actual results? On May 6, he is supposed to stage a mammoth rally at the Rizal Park (Luneta); the plan, according to pro-Duterte sources, is to gather at least a million supporters, who will camp there until election day.

Will he be able to do this?

Binay confident From the UNA camp of Vice President Jejomar Binay and LP standard-bearer Mar Roxas, partisans confidently point out that even the most scientific surveys have not always correctly predicted the election results. In the most celebrated polling disaster in US history, three scientific polls of the

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016

Faculty and Founders of CSUN’s Department of Asian American Studies

Celebrating CSUN’s Dept. of Asian American…

PAGE A8 t

demic Senate, while Suzuki worked with the Office of the President.

“It [AAS] did not come without struggles… it was a dark history and there was a lot of overt discrimination on [CSUN] campus, hateful messages and flyers were placed in our cars, it existed in the mid-80’s and it still continues today. We thought we just needed to do more education and raise awareness. With luck, skill, happenstance, and with cultural awareness weeks, food festivals, people understood us better, it became easier to pave the way for Asian American studies,” Gary Mayeda said , who was the first president and cofounder of the Asian Pacific Student Alliance, now project manager of Infrastructure Factor Consulting Vision, Inc. He shared his vision on volunteerism, “that when you keep contributing, something big will grow.”

Folks came to “honor our past, as we reverently celebrate our hopes for the future,” as Allan Aquino said, to the 25 years of the Department of Asian American Studies, second to gain departmental status, the first was San Francisco State University.

Many years ago, ethnic studies came from the struggles of a generation of activists who were “linking their lives to the tradition of militancy of earlier generations of Pilipino farmworkers, Chinese immigrant garment and restaurant workers, and Japanese American concentration camp resisters. Moreover, these Asian American students – and their community supporters—liberated themselves from the prisons [imposed on us by history and geography, of history, society’s social and class structure, and self] surrounding their lives and forged a new vision for their communities, creating numerous grassroots projects and empowering previously ignored and disenfranchised sectors of society, “ Glenn Omatsu wrote in his published essay, “The Four Prisons and The Movements of Liberation: Asian American Activism from the 1960s to the 1990s.”

Today, the students are learning not just to live for themselves, but to contribute to help others grow, to be a peer mentor, a tutor, a teaching assistant, a group leader, an educational researcher, and where at CSUN, they become “deep, cogent, critical” artists and intellectuals, organically grown by faculty and mentors, peers and study cohorts, from the community.

Like Joyce Kim, who cares about mentoring another student, tutoring Korean-speaking students

CSUN students Lorenzo Mutia and Joyce Kim both received the Enrique de la Cruz Social Justice Award Photos by Kelly Fong

who utilized the writing program, while still active as a church leader, and finding more time to volunteer at Orange County Asian Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA) for Professor Lai’s social movements senior capstone seminar.

Lorenzo Mutia, who is both an Asian American and journalism major, found time to do Summer Activist Training, so he can volunteer more effectively. He is a tutor and peer mentor, plays in the pep band, volunteers at St. Genevieve, CSUN Young Democrats and Filipino Cultural School.

Both Mutia and Kim were recipients of the Enrique de la Cruz Social Justice Award.

Raymond Bascal, who has a GPA of 3.97, and did not take his studies seriously until he got to CSUN, said “where he saw the light, became an Asian American studies major. I had professors who encouraged me and taught me the beauty of mentoring, the likes of Glenn Omatsu, Maria Tummeyer, Allan Aquino.” He received the Laura Uba Academic Achievement Award.

Cielito Fernandez, who received the Kenyon Chan Leadership Award, had this to say, “I don’t really think of myself as a leader. In reality, I’m just a student that’s trying to preserve the communities that empower me so others can feel empowered too!

I’m so proud to be amongst these students who are working towards rectifying the injustices our communities face daily. One of the most resonant lessons I’ve learned from Profs. Fong, Masequesmay, Lai, Uba, Buenavista and Omatsu is that the privileges we have as Asian Americans are conditional and ephemeral. Thank you Asian Am for reminding me to continue fighting for my community.”

All in all, 34 students were recognized as prom-

u PAGE A10

LONG BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY PROJECT BASED WAITING LIST TO OPEN MAY 2, 2016 Accepting Applications The Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach (HACLB) will be accepting applications for its Project Based Communities starting Monday, May 2, 2016 and will remain open until further notice. The HACLB administers the City’s Project Based Rental Housing Assistance Programs in support of specific developments located throughout the city.

How Do I Apply: You may complete an application online at www.longbeach.gov/haclb/apply. Please call the Automated Information Telephone Line for more information — (562) 570.6309.

If a desktop computer is not readily available to you please visit one of our satellite locations listed below to complete your application APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE AT THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF LONG BEACH OFFICE

Pagtanggap ng mga Aplikasyon Ang Awtoridad ng Pabahay para sa Lungsod ng Long Beach (Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach, HACLB) ay tatanggap ng mga aplikasyon para sa Mga Komunidad na Nakabase sa Proyekto (Project Based Communities) nito simula sa Lunes, Mayo 2, 2016 at mananatiling bukas hanggang magkaroon ng karagdagang paunawa. Pinangangasiwaan ng HACLB ang Mga Pro-gramang Tulong sa Paupahang Pabahay na Nakabase sa Proyekto (Project Based Rental Housing Assistance Programs) ng Lung-sod bilang pagsuporta sa mga partikular na pagpapaunlad na matatagpuan sa kabuuan ng lungsod.

Paano Ako Mag-aaplay: Maaari mong kumpletuhin ang isang online na aplikasyon sa www.longbeach.gov/haclb/apply. Mangyaring tawagan ang Linya ng Telepono ukol sa Awtomatikong Impormasyon para sa karagdagang impormasyon — (562) 570.6309.

Kung walang desktop computer na magagamit, mangyaring bumisita sa isa sa aming mga satellite na lokasyon na nakalista sa ibaba upang makumpleto ang iyong aplikasyon WALANG MAKUKUHANG APLIKASYON SA TANGGAPAN NG AWTORIDAD NG PABAHAY SA LUNGSOD NG LONG BEACH All City of Long Beach Public Libraries Long Beach Senior Center Centro C.H.A. (Community Hispanic Association)

1150 E. Fourth Street 205 E. Anaheim St.

Cal Rec Community Center United Cambodian Community Houghton Park Community Center Silverado Park Community Center Filipino Migrant Center

1550 Martin Luther King Blvd 2201 E. Anaheim St Suite 200 6301 Myrtle Ave 1545 W. 31st Street 2125 Santa Fe Ave

9:00 am — 2:00 pm M-F 8:30 am — 6:00 pm M-Th 8:30 am — 3:00 pm F 9:00 am — 2:00 pm M-F 9:00 am — 12:00 pm M-F 9:00 am — 2:00 pm M-F 9:00 am — 2:00 pm M-F 10:00 am — 2:00 pm M-F

Requests for reasonable accommodations based on a disability should be made in writing to the Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach, Attn: Fair Housing Coordinator - 521 E. 4th Street, Long Beach, CA, 90802.

Ang mga kahilingan para sa mga makatwirang akomodasyon batay sa disabilidad ay dapat isagawa sa pamamagitan ng pag-sulat sa Housing Authority of the City of Long Beach, Attn: Fair Housing Coordinator - 521 E. 4th Street, Long Beach, CA, 90802.

A

A10 APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Is Duterte unstoppable, or will…

PAGE A8 t

day, led by Gallup Polls, predicted that Republican candidate Thomas Dewey would win the 1948 US election against the Democratic incumbent President Harry Truman. Truman woke up on that day, Nov. 3, 1948, to read the Chicago Daily Tribune saying, “Dewey Defeats Truman,” only to win at the end of the day.

In the 2010 vice-presidential race, Binay, as Erap Estrada’s running mate, trailed Roxas, B.S. Aquino 3rd’s teammate, in all the surveys up to the end. But he managed to beat Roxas in the final count. Binay’s supporters are confident the same feat could be repeated against Duterte.

In Cebu, Mayor Mike Rama, Binay’s principal campaigner, admits Duterte’s popularity. But he says he is in charge of Binay’s machinery and cannot see an equivalent machinery for Duterte.

In Philippine elections, he points out, voters need to be assisted in going to their voting centers on election day. Throughout the country, Binay has developed a core strength of barangay workers, according to Binay campaigners.

Roxas too The same optimism is aired by Roxas partisans, who expect their candidate to spring a dramatic surprise on D-day. They are confident that Roxas will ultimately prevail because of his far superior political machinery. They claim that Duterte does not even have watchers in various parts of the country. To them, Binay could prove to be the more formidable final adversary.

Poe on free fall All rival camps tend to count Sen. Grace Poe Llamanzares out, despite her earlier reported popularity. It appears that many voters were turned off by the decision of nine Supreme Court justices to declare her qualified to run for President, despite her constitutional ineligibilities. This has been aggravated by her latest premeditated lie, that her American husband, Teodoro Daniel Misael “Neil” Vera Llamanzares, has renounced his US citizenship to prepare for “life in Malacañang,” where no foreigners can stay.

She said during the last presidential debate in Dagupan, Pangasinan, that he had renounced his US citizenship about a month ago. It turned out that on April 17—a week, not a month, before she said it on April 24, he went to a barangay captain in Greenhills to make it appear that he was renouncing his citizenship. But April 17 was a Sunday, a non-working day, and Neil Llamanzares, whom one Poe supporter calls “Dr. Neil,” mistook the barangay captain for a US consular officer, who is the only one before whom he could renounce his citizenship, under US law.

Sources at the rival camps say Grace Poe Llamanzares is now “on a free fall,” leaving the contest to Binay, Roxas and Duterte. Her political operatives have started “buying” votes in Mindanao, and her biggest financiers are reported to have begun trying to connect to Duterte.

Leni Robredo Now, even more intriguing is the case of LP vice-presidential candidate Leni Robredo. PNoy has gone out openly for her, along with his youngest sister, the nation’s leading product endorser on TV, Kris Aquino. After threatening to lead a “people power” revolt against Sen. Ferdinand (Bongbong) Marcos, Jr., should he win as VP, PNoy must have realized how absurd and ridiculous his threat was, so he is now trying to do everything to push

Leni ahead of Bongbong, who is perceived as the runaway vice-presidential frontrunner, survey or no survey, with or without TV. Even while the surveys were still humoring Francis Escudero as the alleged frontrunner, people were already talking of Bongbong everywhere, and no one was talking of Escudero. In the last presidential debate, all the presidential and vicepresidential candidates ran ads during the live TV coverage, but not Bongbong Marcos. Yet in the first reported case of cheating in the overseas absentee voting, the victim had to be Bongbong Marcos.

BBM and Leni This is unfair not only to Bongbong Marcos but, above all, to Leni Robredo. She should reject and distance herself from PNoy’s effort to use her to fight his unfinished fight against the Marcoses, and to salve his conscience for his sins against Leni’s husband, the late former DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo. Jesse was killed in a private plane crash on Aug. 2012 off the island of Masbate. Suspicions remain that his twin-engine plane was sabotaged, but there was no extensive investigation to pursue any leads to this day.

Upon his death, PNoy heaped all sorts of honors upon the deceased to the point of absurdity, even proclaiming Robredo’s habit of casually wearing slippers (tsinelas), instead of shoes, to work as a virtue to be emulated in the Cabinet and the bureaucracy.

PNoy obviously could not control his remorse for having given Robredo a raw deal when he named him to the Department of Inerior and Local Governments. So he’s trying to do this to Leni.

Raw deal As secretary of the Interior and Local Governments, Robredo was supposed to have been given charge of the Interior (meaning the national police) and “local governments” (local government units).

But the LGUs have long been operating autonomously under the law, so the only thing the DILG secretary is really in charge of is “the police.” Yet PNoy specifically withheld supervision of the police from Robredo, and gave it to his shooting buddy, Undersecretary Rico Puno. This reduced Robredo into a figurehead with no real powers to exercise.

Guilty conscience Then came the mysterious plane crash. Obviously stung by guilt, Aquino heaped various posthumous honors upon Robredo, and supported his widow’s run for Congress. Jesse was a good man and a very good mayor, but PNoy tried to turn him into something his old friends and neighbors in Naga City could no longer recognize.

Now following the Aquino tradition of necropolitics, PNoy is now trying to make Leni the Vice President by hook or by crook. He is trying to use her in his crusade against the Marcoses, without regard to the truth or to public sensibility. What crime has Leni done to deserve all this? Will she allow herself to be used, and does she have the stomach for it?

She is a good person, with a genuine desire to serve, but she is not much more experienced than the other neophyte Grace Poe Llmanzares, and has not quite gained a world view that includes a clear and correct understanding of such difficult issues as contracepted sex, abortion, same-sex marriage, etc.

Like Escudero and Gringo Honasan, she comes from Bulusan, Sorsogon (before she moved to

TIME CAPSULE. President Benigno S. Aquino III witnesses the presentation of the Virtual Freedom Time Capsule at the Freedom Memorial Launch at the Bulwagang Ninoy Aquino of the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in North Avenue, Quezon City on Thursday, April 28.

Malacañang photo by Joseph Vidal

Celebrating CSUN’s Dept. of Asian American…

PAGE A9 t

that evening, a very bright light came from Department Chair Gina Masequesmay, Ph.D. to join with other bright lights, all 200 strong from all over Los Angeles.

Congratulations and such great hopes for a better world, as we find this thriving department of caring scholars, teachers, learners who are student-centered!

ising freshmen, sophomores, transfer students, teachers, special achievement, academic achievement, social justice and leadership awardees.

An ascending crescendo of applauses and “Isang Bagsak” were given to honor of the father of Asian American Studies in the US, Prof. Don Nakanishi, Ph.D., and Jose Luis Vargas, the director of the Educational Opportunity Program at CSUN. They passed away two days of each other -- Jose on March 19 and Don on March 21.

As John Dewey said in 1895, “It is…advisable that the teacher should understand, and even be able to criticize, the general principles upon which the whole educational system is formed and administered. He is lot like a private soldier in an army, expected merely to obey, or like a cog in a wheel, expected merely to respond to and transmit external energy; he must be an intelligent medium of action.”

In learning, we “remove our blindfolds,” and

*** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.” She has been writing for AJ Press for 9 years now. She contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong. She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Japan, Mexico and 22 national parks in the US, in pursuit of her love for arts.

Naga, Camarines Sur). With Alan Peter Cayetano and Antonio Trillanes IV, who also both claim to have some Bicol roots, she is just one of five VP candidates who will be expecting hometown support from their fellow Bicolanos.

Can she stand being put on top of the more popular Bicolano candidates in Bicol—and on top of

Bongbong Marcos in other parts of the country, where his name has become a household word, survey or no survey, just because PNoy insists on it?

PNoy will be a lameduck in just a few days. Leni need not soil her good name just to please a failed tyrant. (fstatad@gmail.com)

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Dateline PHiliPPineS

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016

A11

INC denies endorsing Bongbong

by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com

Viray

MANILA — Iglesia Ni Cristo denied endorsing a candidate for the upcoming elections despite the earlier confirmation of Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. According to a report from The STAR, leaders of the religious sect are still deliberating on who to support in the May 9 elections.

Marcos earlier claimed that INC had informed him of the endorsement last Tuesday, citing his long relationship with the sect as it also supported his late father, former President Ferdinand Marcos.

On the other hand, several presidential aspirants have met with the group’s leaders in the

Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. earlier claimed that Iglesia ni Cristo has officially endorsed his vice presidential bid for the May 9 elections. Philstar.com/Efigenio Toledo IV

hope to get its bloc vote.

In the 2010 elections, the sect endorsed the Liberal Party tan-

dem of President Benigno Aquino III and former Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II. n

Robredo biggest ad spender…

PAGE A6 t

ing limit for those running for President and Vice President is P543,638,440.

Robredo claims to be one of the poorest members of the House of Representatives, declaring a net worth of P8 million in her 2014

Escudero claimed to have only P6 million in his 2014 SALN while Statement of Assets, Liabilities Cayetano declared a net worth of P23.3 million in his 2014 SALN. and Net Worth (SALN).

On the other hand, Sen. FerThe second biggest ad spender is Sen. Francis Escudero with dinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. P236.2 million. He was followed spent P42.84 million or a mere

by Sen. Allan Peter Cayetano, six percent of the allowed total who spent P172.4 million for his ad spending during the same period. n ad placements.

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A12 APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 30-mAy 3, 2016

SHOWBIZ&STYLE

B

Journal Kris Aquino: Abu kidnap plot reason for not renewing ABS-CBN contract

by Marinel

r. Cruz

Inquirer.net

Photos by Joseph Mariano

Apl.de.ap shares the stage with Immaculate Heart of Mary School students Apl.de.Ap of the Black eyed peas performed with Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) School students on Saturday, April 23 at the John Wayne performing Arts Center in Glendale, California.

IHM’s second annual concert, showcasing the entire school from transitional kindergarten to eighth grade (4 to 14 year olds), was another momentous occasion! The school has transformed from the hidden pearl of east Hollywood to the glowing gem of Southern California because of its amazing and talented students.

Apl.de.ap, with Jessica Reynoso from “The Voice: philippines,” blessed the children and their families with their presence as they sang, “Where Is The love” with the IHM students.

Their performance inspired the students to continue cultivating their own talents and skills.

Apl.de.ap has been a motivation to IHM students ever since he dropped by to pay them a visit two years ago. He surprised the students by supporting them

at their concert last Saturday, a gesture that Apl is known for, as he is always giving back to the kids.

The students of IHM have made great strides in a very short time under the direction of Mr. pete Avendaño, their outstanding music teacher and director.

They have learned not only the

techniques of singing, but also how to appreciate different types of music, how to sing together as a school, proper school ensemble etiquette and discipline, and most of all, how to practice and persevere. This year, the students sang popular hits from various movie soundtracks, as well as today’s Top 40 hits.

ACTReSS-TV host Kris Aquino on Thursday, April 28 confirmed the alleged plot by bandit group Abu Sayyaf to kidnap her and cited this as the reason for not renewing her contract with broadcast network ABS-CBN. The plan to kidnap Kris and boxing icon Manny pacquiao was disclosed by president Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday, April 27.

Kris requested that her statement be published verbatim.

“Marinel- I was taken by surprise by the Malacañang statement. I wasn’t warned it would be made public. I had a 4 a.m. call time today for a TVC shoot and my sister Viel sent me the pdI front page.

“Honest truth, I was made aware of this plot late February, early March. My sisters tried to shield me because they didn’t want me to have more fear than necessary. If you recall, my sons and I left in March to go abroad for three weeks. The health reasons I cited weren’t fabricated because the Kris Aquino PAGE B2

B april 30-may 3, 2016 • la WEEKEND aSiaN JOUrNal

by Mylah de

leon

OnCe upon a time, there was a press club in the heart of a city where everyone lived in harmony. Photographers and writers were affable and comrades among themselves.

They had a clubhouse in the midst of a hill — oh, so magnificent, almost celestial but not fancy or exclusive. It was famous for its abundance of camaraderie and the glorious togetherness they all shared.

There is a pond so still below, that the trees reflected in it seems. The beauty is painted in its depth — so quiet, clean and peaceful. They savored the pageant of the seasons.

In spring, white clouds of blossoms drifted about it, above the green fields. In autumn, the oak, maple and birch set up a blaze of color that flamed and flickered across a backdrop of pines.

Half-hidden in the mists of

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

Once upon a press club fall mornings are deers silently crossing the fields. In Winter, the roadside were places of sublime beauty. Birds came to feed on the berries and seed heads of dried weeds rising above the snow.

Here, a captious tribe, imaginers by trade and weavers of tales, would gather, write their stories, dash out poetry and push their pens in a gentle libation, their muses in abundance.

It was a work world for a pool of photographers, safe in their regressive sanctuary of male supremacy where one’s expectation far succeeds their accomplishments. It is hard to find the right words to describe their photographs. It is intangible but it is there. Beautiful. Courageous, Tender. Vigorous. Joyful and mysterious. You read and weep, but a picture is worth a thousand words. Breaking molds, going beyond boundaries as their craft rolls up graphic details in one coherent whole. The camera is more vicious than the pen. It can turn blood to smoke as it ignores conventions. The photographers carried out a

dedication to their craft that goes beyond and transcends the littleness that separates the men from the boys.

They can see what everybody can see but not in the way they saw it. For the writers, some stories were without cosmic conclusions.

Others write with the principle of ordinary telling — plain speech, others with images. Fables, echo, irony, certain obliqueness, double meanings. But through it all, the literati and hardcore news writers are kindred spirits, just as the photographers were, in their pursuit of beauty, truth and justice.

It was inspiration, the kidnapper of reason. The women did not pick on each other, the way one picked berries. They were harmonic. The men were always true to form, in their primal capacity for gentlemanliness, friendship and honor. They made the difference. It was supreme.

Coleridge, a century and a half ago, had written, “A woman’s friendship borders more closely on love than man’s. Men affect each others in the reflection of PAGE B3

ZUMBA MADNESS. J&T Support Services, with the direction of Laarni Campo of North Hollywood Toyota, present two hours of Zumba with Ruben Enriquez and Catherine Cancio Tagle, The Zamora brothers and Uriel Carpio of the Maneouvers on Saturday, April 30 at Dance Revolution (located at 6626 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys, CA). Join us in this high-energy event from 9am to 12pm. For tickets, please call Laarnie (818) 645-3933, Jean (626) 233-4003, or John (323) 317-1297.

(Advertising Supplement)

Gerald Anderson still has ‘spark’ for Bea Alonzo SIx years after being linked with each other, Bea Alonzo and Gerald Anderson will be working together in a film.

It was in 2010 when Gerald admitted dating Bea, but their romance didn’t blossom.

The story conference for their film happened on Wednesday, and will be directed by Dan Villegas.

“Para sa akin never naman nawala,” replied Gerald when asked if he still feels a “spark” for Bea, in an interview aired in the ABS-CBn late night talk show “Tonight with Boy Abunda” on Thursday, April 28.

“Tingnan mo naman siya, lagi siyang may spark,” he added.

In return, Bea also compli-

After being linked six years ago, Bea Alonzo and Gerald Anderson will be working together in a film under Star Cinema.

ABS-CBN photo

mented Gerald but added that The shoot for their film “it’s too early to say” if it’s started today, based on Bea possible to rekindle their then and direct Dan’s posts on Insbrewing romance. tagram. (Philstar.com)

Kris Aquino: Abu kidnap plot reason...

PAGE B1 intelligence reports, and they kept stress coming from the threat had what I was allowed to relay to them caused my BP to constantly elevate under wraps. I was told to strictly keep the news contained and I to higher than 150/110.

“I didn’t renew with ABS CBn obeyed. And I am grateful for the because of this threat. That was a respect I was shown.

“And to their credit, everybody painful decision, but I needed to make that judgment call so as not closest to me – both coworkers, to expose others to harm. It was relatives and friends – kept quiet to that serious that I walked away protect me and because they knew from a new two-year contract this was a matter to be taken serifor a job I’ve loved for 20 years. I ously with utmost precaution.

AJ Ads 65my Microgreens_Layout 1 2/23/16“We 5:17left PM Palm PageSunday 1 and reinformed bosses the pertinent facts, but not full details from the turned for my endorsement work

commitments second week of April. You can check my IG (Instagram) feed from March onwards – there have been very few location specific posts, and since our return, the two boys (her sons Josh and Bimby) and I have been living with Pnoy.

“If you’ll use this text – I hope I am quoted verbatim. I read and re-read my text to you four times to make sure I didn’t reveal more than what I have knowledge of and what is safe to share.”

age gracefully

Microgreens Are Sprouting Superfoods

BY GRACE O

Sprouts have come a long way since the 1970s. Today, almost everyone is a health nut—interested in prolonging life, feeling as good as possible, and looking as young as can be. Because of that, chefs and foodies have decided to take another look at home sprouting. Of course, today the preferred term is “microgreens,” but really that includes baby shoots from vegetables, beans, seeds, or even grains.

Sprouts, or microgreens, are very healthy because they contain all of the nutrients of bigger, adult plants in their young, tender shoots. Generally speaking, sprouts are germinated in water under low light conditions while micro-greens are grown in soil in regular light. Sprouts can be eaten with their roots attached, but it’s probably safer to trim the roots off before eating so that the seed hulls caught in the roots aren’t ingested. Roots and seed hulls can harbor bacteria if not properly rinsed.

Germinating sprouts at home requires constant soaking and rinsing and aerating in order to keep them clean and free of pathogens. Seeds can be germinated in soil or in small containers, or sprouted in water using a sprouting machine.

I bought a sprouting machine from Freshlife so that I could have fresh sprouts for my salads and stir-fries and sandwiches. I use only organic seeds.

They can be purchased online at www.sproutman.com. I like broccoli, mung bean, wheat grass, fenugreek,

and alfalfa sprouts. I place my seeds inside the Freshlife sprouter and fill it with distilled water. I can sprout two or three varieties of seeds at one time, as long as they have similar harvesting periods. The machine will sprinkle the sprouts with water at regular intervals. It also drains excess water and keeps the sprouts aerated so I don’t have to worry about bacteria growing. If you sprout seeds at home without a machine, you have to water them twice a day and change the water every day yourself.

Once the seeds grow to a height of about 4 or 6 inches and have two tiny leaves, they are ready to harvest. For radish, kale, turnip, and mustard seeds this takes only 5–6 days. Alfalfa and clover seeds take about 7 days to mature. Buckwheat, fenugreek, red pea, sunflower, and wheatgrass seeds take 8–12 days to reach maturity. Garlic, onion, chia, and psyllium seeds need 12–14 days to sprout. I simply cut the sprouts off the seed tray and store them in my refrigerator for up to a week.

Or I eat the tender greens right away in a salad or a sandwich wrap.

Seeds that generate a gelatinous covering when soaked shouldn’t be sprouted in a plastic tray like the one in my Freshlife sprouter. Those need to be grown on clay.

Gelatinous seeds include arugula, chia, cress, psyllium, and flaxseeds, and yellow mustard seeds. A chia pet, believe it or not, is really the best vehicle for sprouting.

GRACE O – Combining her passion for food and a commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle, GRACE O has created FoodTrients®, a unique program for optimizing wellness and longevity. Grace O is a fusion chef and cookbook author with a mission: to introduce delicious recipes built on a foundation of anti-aging science and her 20 years in the healthcare industry.

Visit FoodTrients.com to learn more. Email us at info@FoodTrients.com

© 2016 by FoodTrients.com

Moonlighting

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A HUSBAND’S 30-YEAR-OLD “SECRET” ALMOST DERAILED THE FAMILY’S GREEN CARDS ON AN ENCORE EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to revive Alice’s (center) petition by her US citizen father, after it was terminated due to the petitioner’s death. The family was then eligible to get their visas years ahead of schedule by using the priority date of Alice’s Lebanese husband, Andre (left). But Andre refused to come to the US because of a “secret” he had kept for 30 years, preventing him from going back to the US. Atty. Gurfinkel worked “miracles” to resolve the mystery behind this fascinating success story, on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday, May 1 at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

Anne Curtis, Jasmine hang out in London Actress and popular tV host Anne curtis, together with fellow celebrity and sister Jasmine curtissmith, are gallivanting and having a sisterly bonding in London.

Anne shared splendid photos of the city’s historical landmarks in her Instagram account. they have visited the Westminister’s Abbey, Big Ben, st.

Pa u l ’s c a t h e d ra l , and the London eye. the sisters also watched a classic musical remake of “the Phantom of the Opera.” (Gianna Francesca Catolico/ Inquirer.net)

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Words of wisdom from the most Programming of Kababayan Today, May 2-6, 2016 important woman in my life

By Monet

Lu

I WAs told on numerous occasions that everybody eventually turns into their parents when they grow old. I believe that now to be true as I see so much of my “Nanay” (as I fondly call her) in me – now more than ever. Things like her gestures, or when giving advice, I just can’t help but notice myself talking the way my mother would talk to me. I talk to my friends the way she would usually talk to me when I ask her for advice. All I can say is that my friends are just as lucky as I am that I learned so much from my dear mother.

This coming Mother’s month, I want to dedicate this piece to her. she tried her best to instill in me precious nuggets of wisdom (that I hope I’ve retained all these years). The woman I owe everything to; the most important woman in my life – My Nanay: Mrs. Catalina Francisco Lu. It has been years since my mother joined the Lord yet her memory stays forever. The pain of losing my mom still remains.

I guess the heartache will never be completely gone but I learned to accept the fact that she won’t be around anymore. And that I’ll always keep her memories with me. That way, she lives on in my heart and in my dreams.

My Nanay is your typical “charismatic and caring” mother.

But don’t let her composed demeanor fool you. she could be feisty and quite the disciplinarian

if she wanted to. But no matter how she carried herself, she never failed to express her love and concern for her children.

“Eat your vegetables, they’re good for you.”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full.”

“Pray before you eat.”

“Don’t waste food, finish it all.

Think of the hungry children in the world.”

“If you don’t stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way.”

“Call me when you get there so I’ll know you’re okay.”

– These are my mother’s widely used reminders. I say them back to myself whenever I’m reminded of them and with gratitude in my heart, I tell myself how lucky I am to have a mother like my Nanay. she was fond of reciting quotations when she can. Of course at that time, I really didn’t fully understand what they meant. she’d talk mostly about gratitude and work ethics. “Ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan.”

(He who doesn’t know how to look back from where he came from, will never reach his destiny), she would often say to me.

I think it was her favorite. Most of the time she would talk more about “remaining humble and never forgetting the people who helped you along the way.”

When I opened my very first salon, she was there to remind me that I should always thank those who made my dream possible, especially my sisters who paid for my tuition so I can study

Once upon a press...

PAGE B2 noble or friendly acts, whilst women ask fewer proofs and more signs that are expressions of attachment.”

In their clubhouse, they never had to show off. Though together, as true friends, some tried to keep the worst from each other. some seek approval, some seek acceptance. The heartwarming truth was the men had been trained in restraint. No chip in sensibilities but considerate of each other’s judgement. Above all, as true friends and colleagues, they faced adversity

together. What could be more true, good and beautiful?

They were admired, heard even from far away places. Collectively, these photographers and writers could shake and torch the earth!

Then a strange blight crept over the clubhouse and over the area surrounding it. Everything began to change, like a mysterious spell had settled. suddenly, there was a strange stillness.

The mornings that once throbbed with dawn’s chorus of robins, catbirds, doves and nightingales; were suddenly quiet. There was no sound —

Monday, May 2 - Join G. Tongi and Effe Barker, Kababayan Today Correspondent & Researcher, as they talk about the Philippine presidential candidates. Get to know the platforms of all the presidential aspirants.

Tuesday, May 3 - It is our first G. TönGi live show of the month. Call in and ask our Immigration specialists and attorneys from Aquino & Loew on air and for free.

Wednesday, May 4 - Midweek News Updates from the Asian Journal and Mia Mcleod of McLeod and Associates gives real estate advice.

Apl.de.ap gets recognition for his work with the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

Dr. O of “All Things Fil Am” talks about his book: “The Latinos of Asia” and shares some enlightening discussions on what it means to be a Filipino in America.

Thursday, May 5 - Effe Barker comes to the show to talk more about Philippine politics and the current contenders in the vice presidential race.

Friday, May 6 - Gospel singer Chayah Miranda visits the show to share her talent. Watch her inspiring story of faith! ***

The Global Kababayan

Mrs. Catalina Francisco Lu

styling and design. she also challenged me to be more mindful and conscientious about work and money. she would always tell me: “Para kang kalabasa, gapang ng gapang naiiwan naman ang bunga.” Which meant that I often worked myself to the ground but I never saw the fruits of my labor.

Nanay’s constant prodding urged me to be more responsible in my fiscal affairs. Thanks to her, I’m still learning.

Looking back, I learned from her a basic truth about life: that there are some lessons we won’t fully understand until we are ready to accept what it requires – so we can really do what truly

matters.

Years after her death, Nanay still continue to teach me these lessons. I’m just glad that I am still here to pass them on to my nieces, nephews and grandchildren, or anyone who needs a motherly advice.

My mother is my hero. I believe she deserves a medal even if she never would have asked for one. I miss her more than words can ever express.

All of us were born because there was that one person who decided we deserve a chance to be in this world. They may be our biological moms or those who raised us as their own. Motherhood is a PAGE B6

there was just deafening silence.

The gaiety and merriment inside the clubhouse vanished.

Where have they gone? Many people spoke of the poets, writers, news harbingers, especially the marvelous photographers, puzzled and disturbed. suddenly, there was only strange stillness. It was spring without voices. As though swept by wildfire, the once so attractive were now lined with brown and withered vegetation. The green flowering was now nothing but heaps of rotting leaves, silent and deserted by living things. No enemy action nor witchcraft had silenced the rebirth of a new life in the clubhouse.

The fourth estate had done it themselves.

This press club does not actually exist. But it might easily have a dozen counterparts, here or elsewhere in the world. I know of no press club nor press photographers club that has experience the tragedy I have described. Yet every one of these lapses had actually happened somewhere and many real press clubs have suffered.

A grim specter has crept upon us, almost unnoticed and this imagined tragedy(?) may easily become a stark reality in Medialand. We all shall know — with shrinkage of the heart and the soul in escrow.

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.

Rachelle Ann Go: Love can wait

by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

LOvE will have to wait for awhile before Rachelle Ann Go opens her door again.

Rachelle believes that this moment is dedicated for the opportunities coming her way both here in the Philippines and London.

“Kahit pinangarap ko po, wala pa po, e,” she replied when asked about her love life. “Kahit gusto ko ang hirap, e. Kasi paalis-alis ako, e.” “so I don’t think it’s the right time yet. siguro darating siguro ‘yan, hopefully, malapit na,” she added.

Next week, she’ll be back to London after the three-month run of the West-End musical “Les Misérables” here in the Philippines.

Although she’s sad to leave her family behind again, she won’t deny looking forward to being on her own.

“I learned a lot about myself when I was there for two years,” she explained. “so ngayon, nasospoil po kasi ako ng mama ko, may nagluluto sa akin, araw-araw may nagbabaon sa akin. Doon sa London ako lang po. so ‘yong independence po siguro.”

“Les Misérables” will run

Rachelle Ann Go believes love can wait for a little more while she seizes all the opportunities coming her way both here in the Philippines and London.

in London until December, so Rachelle still has no plans on what to do next after their show.

However, she admits dreaming of doing a Broadway musical someday, and to star in her dream performances like “Hamilton” and “Wicked.”

In November, Rachelle will be back here in the country for the “Divas in Manila” concert, where she’ll share the stage with Kyla, Yeng Constantino, Angeline Quinto and KZ.

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YOUR OWN PIECE OF QUIET LUXURY IN CEBU

Sky Garden

A

fter years of hard work, come home to a place of quiet luxury in Cebu, the newest global metropolis! One such development project is underway.

Its builders had in mind the future homeowner who has worked hard for many years and will now be able to relax in his own home close to everything yet away from it all!

It seems far away from the busy economic district and the gridlocked streets but is actually right within the center where everything is within reach. Located along a national highway, it is flood-free due to its elevation of 100 meters above sea level.

With the names Kenneth Cobonpue, Budji Layug and Royal Pineda composing its world-class design team, SUNDANCE RESIDENCES is certainly an attractive residential investment.

It has a Party Hall where residents can hold gatherings with family and friends. For the health and fitness enthusiast, a gym with modern equipment is available. A jogging path, outdoor playground,

munities.

Here are eight reasons why you choose right with Sundance Residences: 1. Your own private hillside home. Located on the hills of Banawa, your snug getaway affords you fresh mountain air, a serene, comfortable distance from Party Hall the urban center.

2. Convenience and Accessibility. Away but not far, your home is a walk to and from the malls and easily accessible via public transport.

Near schools, churches, hospitals, your home is a only a ride away to the prayer room, meditation garden business district. and a poolside lounge within the 3. Family-centered property are all part of the whole amenities. Sundance Poolside Lounge with Bar design. brands such as Worldwide Steel Residences is the counSundance Residences is devel- try’s first child & family-friendly and Worldwide Home Depot. The oped by Worldwide Central Proper- residential development group. group has a tried and tested track ties. With over 40 years of experiWith their Day Care record in the construction industry Center, Fitness Gym, for over 40 years.

6. A quality home at an affordpool, jogging path and Sky garden fa- able price. cilities which ensure Delivered finished with upper and family bonding, they bottom kitchen cabinets, and granare also spiritually ite counter top, among others addstrengthened at the ed in. Sundance Residences units are relatively larger compared to Prayer Room.

4.

Elegantly other developments.

7. Move-in hassle free. functional by design. Backed by a Six months before turn-over of the team of world-class units, residents are presented with design consultants the option to choose from the stansuch as Kenneth Co- dard designs for their units with bonpue, Royal Pine- recommended furniture and appliWorldwide Central Properties executives with design team Architect Royal Pineda and Kenneth Cobonpue. da and Budji Layug, ances to maximize space.

8. Best Value for your Money.

Sundance Residences is an archience and expertise in the steel and tectural feast for the senses!

At an affordable price, Sundance construction supply business, you 5. A developer you can fully Residences, with its prime comhave the assurance of quality, in- rely on. Worldwide Central Proper- mercial and residential location is tegrity and commitment as it raises ties, Inc. is an integral part of the an unbeatable investment. the bar in building homes and cre- Worldwide Steel Group Inc., which For more information visit www. ating self-sustained healthy com- includes reputable home-grown worldwidecentralproperties.com

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100-voice choir featured in the Regine Velasquez Concert Leading the formation of the one hundred voices choir for the Regine Velasquez Concert is The Philippine Chamber Singers - Los angeles (PCS-La).

PCS-La is a dynamic, diverse and decorated group of Filipino music-lovers, bonded by their passion for choral singing. Since 2004 when it was founded by anthony “gelo” Francisco, formerly of the UP Madrigal Singers, PCSLa has become one of the top choral groups in La. gelo, who studied music as a voice major under Prof. andrea O. Veneracion, is also the group’s artistic director-conductor.

PCS-La has come a long way from its humble beginnings of Christmas caroling and performing at local weddings. What was once a small circle of friends from different choirs has blossomed into a tight-knit and talented ensemble. PCS-La takes pride in making waves and enriching the community through secular and sacred music and promoting the Filipino culture at various venues, cultural events, music festivals, and benefit concerts. in 2007, PCS-La participated in the Choral directors association’s (aCda) 24th biennial national Convention where they delivered a successful opening night performance at the international Concert Session gala

held in Miami, FL. The choir is the very first local Filipino chorale group that has made the distinction of making an aCda debut on the national level. PCSLa also graced the stages at the Long Beach Convention Center, L.a. Sports arena, the La Mirada Theater for the Performing arts and the Cerritos Performing arts Center to name a few.

The next year, PCS-La performed at the 4th Word Festival of Sacred Music spearheaded by UCLa and at the dorothy Chandler Pavilion for the Los angeles County Holiday Celebration. in august of 2009, PCS-La performed at the Ford amphitheatre and delivered an outstanding presentation of Ryan Cayabyab’s music in “awit ng Buhay,” a musical revue depicting the life of a Filipino, the Filipino family dynamic, and the emotional struggles of overseas workers. The PCS-La performed under the baton of Maestro gustavo dudamel and the La Philharmonic in October 2009 for his inaugural concert, “Bienvenido gustavo” at the Hollywood Bowl, and again in 2011 for The Mahler Project’s “Symphony of the Thousand” at the Shrine auditorium. in July 2012, PCS-La performed at the Hollywood Bowl once again in “apl.de.ap Takes

Words of wisdom from...

PAGE B4 24-7 duty with no days off or sick days. a thankless job that we sadly take for granted or often overlook. i hope that this Mother’s day, we will take the time to honor and appreciate our mothers.

To the most important woman in my life, i love you always.

Happy Mother’s day, nanay. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern

You to the Philippines” with apl. de.ap and other members of the Black eyed Peas (will.i.am. & Taboo), nicole Scherzinger, Martin nievera, Ogie alcasid, Becca godinez, dessa, Martin nievera, Harana Kings, Lou diamond Phillips & Vanessa Hudgens.

PCS-La is also involved in community outreach and helps numerous other groups and organizations through benefit concerts including benefit concerts to assist the flood victims in the Philippines that are affected by devastating typhoons.

PCS-La continues to grow, “making waves” from one end of the Pacific to the next, from the Philippines to the US to help sustain the Filipino culture, making waves in the community to support the community’s initiatives, and making sound waves to help maintain the art of and the appreciation of choral singing. Together with other choir groups, PCS-La leads the formation of the 100 voices choir under the musical direction of anthony “gelo” Francisco. For interested choir groups who want to participate, please contact apple nazareno at (310) 528-5745.

Call V entertainment for tickets at (818) 458-9258 or log on to ventertainment.biz.

(Advertising Supplement)

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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Arci Muñoz, Jericho Rosales paired for upcoming series Arci Muñoz is both honored and nervous to give life to the character previously portrayed by Nora Aunor.

She’ll star in the upcoming TV series “Never Say Goodbye,” a remake of the 1980s film “Kastilyong Buhangin,” starring the Superstar and Lito Lapid, under the direcArci Muñoz will star in the remake of a Nora Aunor film tion of Mario O’Hara.

“Kastilyong Buhangin,” which will be titled “Never Say “i’m really nerGoodbye.” vous,” she admitted in an interview aired in the ABS-cBN news program “TV Patrol” on Thursday, April 28. “Sabi ko nga sa kanila i-prepare nila ako nang mabuti kasi talagang ang pressure sa akin.”

She will be paired with Jericho rosales and John Estrada.

This is a follow-up to the recently defunct sexy early primetime series “Passion de Amor” where she was paired with Jake cuenca.

(Philstar.com)

TIM BRADLEY MEET AND GREET AT LEELIN BAKERY AND CAFE. Former welterweight champion Tim Bradley met with his fans and members of the Fil-Am media last Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Leelin Bakery and Café in Cerritos, California. Known as the “Desert Storm” who once defeated Manny Pacquiao, the popular boxer from Palm Springs, California accommodated all his fans who came in droves to see him, take photos with him or ask for his autograph. After the Meet and Greet, Bradley relaxed with his entourage and family inside Leelin Bakery and Café as they ate a sumptuous dinner of his favorite Pancit and Fresh Lumpia, Sisig na Bangus and Bistek Tagalog. First photo shows Bradley receiving a Leelin Heirloom Gift Box and Gift Bag filled with Leelin Buttered Mamon, Ensaimada, Ube Loaf, and other bakery goodies from Carmela Leelin. Second photo shows Bradley with a bag of Leelin’s bestselling Buttered Biscotti.

(Advertising Supplement)

John Prats on best friend Angelica Yeng Constantino dreams of becoming a talent manager Panganiban: Love life na lang kulang JOHN Prats believes that his best friend Angelica Panganiban already has everything, and the only thing missing is a lifetime partner.

“Kasi nakikita ko sa kanya [ready na siya],” he said about Angelica being ready to settle down, in an interview on Thursday, April 28.

“Mabait kasing tao ‘yon, e, so na- John Prats believes that the only thing missing in Angelica Panganiban’s life is a lifetime partner. kikita ko sa kanya Philstar.com photo by Joyce Jimenez na ‘yon na lang ang kulang sa buhay niya,” he He also noted that he and the added, pertaining to the actress’ actress’ other friends always make love life. sure that “we’re always here. ‘Yong The Kapamilya actor assured love ko naman sa kanya is unconAngelica’s fans that she’s now do- ditional.” ing well after the end of her rela“Basta ako, sa sarili ko lang, lagi tionship with John Lloyd cruz. ako nagdadasal for her happiness,” “Matapang ‘yon, matapang na he concluded. (Joyce Jimenez/Philbabae ‘yon si Angelica,” he said. star.com)

if she’s not a singer, Yeng constantino sees herself managing aspiring musicians.

Yeng revealed that she wants to follow the footsteps of her manager Erickson raymundo, the head of cornerstone.

“Gusto ko mag-discover ng mga talents,” she said. “Gusto ko maging producer din. Kasi ang dami kong nakikita na upcoming artists. Kapag dumating ‘yong time na puwede, stable na rin, gusto ko maging tulad ni Kuya Erickson.”

The Kapamilya singer is one of the judges in the singing contest “Tawag ng Tanghalan” in “it’s Showtime.” in the show, she’s exposed to different aspiring musicians, who inspired her to dream of becoming a producer someday.

“Nafi-feel ko na may mga contestants na hindi natatanggap and minsan naisip ko, ‘manage ko kaya ‘yan?’” she related in an interview after the press conference. “Sa ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ at ‘The Voice’ actually nakakakita. Kaya

gusto ko talaga [mag-manage], gustong gusto ko talaga.”

Although for now, her schedule cannot permit it and she wouldn’t want to do something she cannot focus on.

“Kasi being wise, hindi siya talaga kakayanin ng schedule ko,” she said. “Dapat i-block ko ‘yong time, kasi i don’t want to do something ‘tas magiging half-baked lang. i want to do it na masusuportahan ko talaga ‘yong magiging talents ko in the future.”

(Philstar.com) Yeng Constantino

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COMMUNITY Journal

Your Immigration Solution Eric WElsh and nancy MillEr IN most countries, including the United States, citizenship is the ultimate immigration status. A citizen of the United States cannot be deported or removed from the country, and only a citizen can vote in federal and state elections. Citizenship can be described as a social contract—rights and protections provided by the nation, in exchange for allegiance to the nation. This concept can get rather murky when a person is a citizen of more than one country, or when a person wants to stop being a citizen.

Grace Poe is the current frontrunner in the race for President of the Philippines. She continues to hold a lead in the polls for the election this May, but her candidacy is under attack because of her citizenship. Poe, who is rumored to be an illegitimate child of Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos, was born in the Philippines but abandoned as a child. She was then adopted and raised by a Filipino movie star. She immigrated to the United States in the 1980s and naturalized as a U.S. citizen in October 2001. In 2005, after her adopted father died, she moved back to the Philippines and applied for dual citizenship under Philippine law, which was granted in 2006.

In 2010, President Benigno Aquino appointed Poe to chair the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), but Philippine law required her to renounce her American citizenship before taking the appointment. She signed an affidavit before a notary in October 2010, renouncing her American citizenship.

She later filed an Affirmation of Renunciation at the U.S. Embassy in Manila, and the Embassy formally recognized her renunciation in February 2012.

Now, Poe is facing challengers who claim she is not eligible

Grace Poe and the idea of citizenship to hold the office of President because of Philippine law regarding citizenship. Her challengers claim that because Poe was found as an abandoned child and cannot prove the identity of her birth parents, she is not a “natural born” citizen of the Philippines. They also allege that she did not meet residency requirements.

Her opponents also argue that she did not timely renounce her U.S. citizenship before accepting her position with the MTRCB. Some even argue that legality aside, she should not be allowed to run for president because she previously naturalized as an American, and in doing so turned her back on the Philippines.

Poe’s candidacy has raised interesting questions regarding the citizenship of a parentless child, and the idea of dual citizenship.

Regarding her birth, Poe’s challengers argue that since Poe’s actual biological parents are not known, she cannot prove she was born to Philippine parents. This would not be an issue in a country like the United States that recognizes citizenship “jus soli” (“right of the soil”), but unlike the United States, birth in the Philippines does not in itself confer citizenship.

For her part, Poe (and her supporters) have strongly argued that she is entitled to citizenship as a parentless “foundling,” who

should be presumed by law to be born of natives of the country where born.

Regarding her American citizenship, Poe’s case raises more thorny issues.

The United States does not expressly forbid dual citizenship, but it is discouraged. The position of the United States is that citizenship confers special privileges both inside and outside of the United States, including diplomatic protection abroad, and the protections and rights of American citizens can become unclear when a person claims citizenship to more than one sovereign. For Grace Poe, the issue is even more clearly restricted: under Philippine law, only Philippine citizens with no allegiance to any other country can seek election to public office.

In order to renounce her U.S. citizenship, Grace Poe had to engage in a formal process before the U.S. Consulate and sign an oath of renunciation. American citizenship cannot be easily lost or forfeited; the formalities of the renunciation process are specifically designed to make certain that the person renouncing does so with clear intent and informed understanding of what they are giving up.

Whether Grace Poe is elected next month remains to be seen. If she is elected, she is likely to hear continuing chal-

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Minding Your Finances Atty. RAymond BulAon BEING in debt and doing nothing about it can have more serious consequences than you think.

First of all, it can impact your financial future. Uncontrolled debt can deprive you the opportunity to put money aside for emergencies, save money for a home or college for your children, or perhaps for retirement.

Every day I see a lot of people past retirement age who continue work just to be able to pay their debts. Some of them are not in the best of health but are forced to work because they just can’t afford to miss a paycheck.

Sadly, a lot of them also have zero savings in the bank so the day they stop working, they don’t even know how they are going to survive financially.

Debt problems tend to get worse over time if you ignore them. For example, you can get sued by creditors, your wages garnished or your bank account levied. If you own a home, a judgment lien can be filed against your property, making it difficult to sell when the time comes. The judgment against you also earns interest so over time the debt just keeps getting larger. All of the above can happen at the same time while your credit also suffers for many years making it impossible for you to re-establish.

In other words, bad debts can haunt you for many years unless you deal with it now. The very first step is to know your options.

Unfortunately these days, there is a lot of misinformation out there that people are too scared to do

Insurance Matters JoSePh doRotAn ANALOGOUS to taxpayers showing their earning statements with W2 or 1099, this year taxpayers are asked to show 1095s as their health insurance statements. Without proof of health insurance, they may have to pay a penalty.

A 1095 form basically declares who is covered by a health in-

Community Journal

Get out of debt without filing for bankruptcy? anything for fear that they will make a mistake. Or sometimes, they listen to bad advice given by family or friends who don’t really understand the legal issues involved in their situation.

Listen to me: Your family and friends may care a lot about you but they are often NOT the best source of advice for your debt problems. They mean well and they want the best for you but if you simply take their advice without consulting with an attorney first, this could keep you stuck in your problems for a very, very long time. Trust me, I know, because I have seen this many times in my practice as a debt relief attorney.

There are situations where bankruptcy can still be avoided by making drastic changes with the way you spend your money.

For example, if you’re already in debt, you need to stop borrowing as soon as possible or you’re just digging yourself a bigger financial hole every single month. Don’t use credit cards to pay other credit cards and you need to pay close attention to where every dollar goes. Watch your monthly expenses closely and eliminate those you can live without. If you cannot afford to pay cash for something that you want at this time, you simply cannot afford it, period. By cutting your expenses, you may be able to come up with some extra cash that you can use towards debt repayment. If you are like most people and are paying 22-29% in interest on your credit cards per year, paying only the minimums will guarantee that you will be in debt for a very long time so you

need to pay more than this in order to make progress in your goal to be debt-free someday. I know this takes a lot of discipline especially when you don’t have a lot of disposable income.

If you are no longer able to help yourself or if you are already behind in your debt payments and creditors are threatening legal action, filing bankruptcy may be your last resort. If you don’t file bankruptcy, things can only get worse and you may find it very difficult or impossible to recover financially. Why suffer if the law allows you a chance to start over and rebuild your finances again?

If you know nothing about how bankruptcy works, you should at least speak with an experienced and knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney who can explain to you the pros and cons of such solution. If done right, believe it or not, this can actually be the best thing that you can ever do to change your life for the better. You owe it to yourself and your family to at least explore this possibility if you are out of options. It is often not as bad as you think and may be what you need to eliminate financial stress in you life once and for all.

For a free office consultation, please call Toll-Free 1-866-4777772. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. ***

How to spot an IRS fraud audit

Tax Tips VictoR Sy, cPA, mBA

IT started with a dreaded letter from the IRS. Your tax return has been selected for examination. Lately, the agent has been asking about cash transactions, safety deposit box, foreign bank accounts and even showed up with a second agent. At your doorsteps! Something is wrong.

Does the agent suspect fraud?

Are you being referred to CID (Criminal Investigation Division)? If so, you need help. In a hurry! It would be foolish not to set up an adequate defense.

Pronto! Let me give you some indicators of a fraud audit and what you should do about it.

What are warning signs that you may have been referred to CID? 1. The agent requests detailed information about your life style and spending habits.

2. The agent asks about offshore bank accounts.

3. The agent asks about safety deposit boxes and other bank deposits.

4. The agent performs a cash deposit analysis and finds that deposits materially exceed reported income.

5. The agent begins requesting copies of every document that you show him.

6. The agent begins to contact None of the information herein is in- third parties regarding payments tended to give legal advice for any specific made to you or received from situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has success- you. fully helped thousands of clients in getting 7. The agent insists on meetout of debt. For a free attorney evaluation ing with you despite your having of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon a representative.

Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1 (866) 477-7772.

premium to buy a Covered CA IFP also get 1095A. On the other hand, 1095C is issued to people employed by large employers, i.e., those employing at least 50 full-time equivalents. Those who are not supposed to get 1095A or 1095C should get 1095B. That means that people employed by small employers, people with Medicare, or people with MediCal should all get 1095B. Some

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8. The agent insists on meeting in your place of business or home instead of your representative’s office.

9. Suddenly, it is difficult to communicate with the agent who stops working on your case.

10. You are visited by two special agents (the second agent’s role is to provide corroborating testimony).

What should you at this time?

1. Verify the identity of any agent who comes to your premises. Get a business card.

2. Do not talk with or write to any IRS personnel anymore.

3. Hire a CPA or criminal tax lawyer to represent you.

4. Execute a POA (Power of Attorney) and an engagement letter with your rep immediately.

5. Keep a copy of both POA and engagement letter at home, your office, and with you at all times.

6. Refer all calls for documentation or explanation to your tax representative.

7. Do not provide any more documentation directly to the agents. Go through your rep.

8. Provide the good, the bad and the ugly to your rep so he can develop strategies to counter any threat.

9. Prepare written memoranda of all meetings, dates, people, questions and responses.

10. List and copy each page that you provide to the IRS. Word of Advice: Do not take fraud cases lightly. As soon as one or a combination of these red flags appears, hire a representative—preferably a tax attorney or seasoned CPA. This is not the time to be cheap. Defend yourself properly.

Word of Caution: Do not in-

nocently offer discounts for services or goods to an agent. Such discounts are considered bribes.

IRS personnel are clean—the cleanest among civil servants.

The Service has zero tolerance for bribery. An innocent offer can lead you to CID. Development: Beware—Criminal investigations increased 8% the other year. Over 90% of indictments resulted in convictions. Traditional tax evasion cases make up 50% of cases.

IRS hopes to increase time spent on unreported income to 70%.

Scary stuff.

A Sigh of Relief: If you receive Form 4549 RAR (Revenue Agent Report), you can breathe a sigh of relief. It means that you were not referred to the CID. Informant? You may have a nagging suspicion that you may have been referred by an informant—a vengeful employee, exhusband, girlfriend, or jealous competitors. Auditors are reluctant to reveal this info but I’ve found a way to get a hint: when an auditor responds by saying that “I’ll ask my manager,” you have been referred. If auditor says “I can’t tell you” you have been referred. *** Victor Santos Sy graduated Cum Laude from UE with a BBA and from Indiana State University with an MBA. Vic worked with SyCip, Gorres, Velayo (SGV - Andersen Consulting) and Ernst & Young before establishing Sy Accountancy Corporation in Pasadena, California. *** He has 50 years of experience in defending taxpayers audited by the IRS, FTB, EDD, BOE and other governmental agencies. He is publishing a book on his expertise - “HOW TO AVOID OR SURVIVE IRS AUDITS.” Our readers may inquire about the book or email tax questions at vicsy@ live.com.

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Grounds for annulling a marriage

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Right 1095 to avoid tax penalty surance meeting the “minimum essential coverage” defined by Affordable Care Act (ACA). It comes in several variations. They are 1095A, 1095B and 1095C. 1095A is issued by a health insurance marketplace plan like a Covered California Individual and Family plan (Covered CA IFP).

Typically people who receive Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC) or subsidy get 1095A. But some people who paid full

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Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth uRSuA ReyeS MOST couples that want out of a marriage in California usually file for Divorce. There are circumstances though that allow a couple to have their marriage “voided” rather than “dissolved.”

There is a big difference between the two concepts. With a voided marriage, it restores the couple to status of unmarried person as if they have never been married before. In a divorce, the couple would always be regarded to as married during the period of the marriage.

Unlike Divorce which can be obtained regardless of the reason.

Voiding a marriage may only be obtained based on certain grounds. It is void in cases of incest and bigamy. It is voidable in cases of minority, Unsound Mind, Fraud, Force, or Physical Incapacity. Marriages between parents, children, ancestors and descendants, brothers and sisters, half brothers and sisters, uncles and nieces, and aunts and nephews are incestuous and are void from the beginning. So are bigamist marriages where either party was still married to another person when they entered the marriage.

Nevertheless, it is best to obtain a Nullity Judgment to clarify the legal status of the parties under

these circumstances.

Certain situations does not necessarily make a marriage void but makes it voidable on the parties option. One such circumstance is when the petitioner was under 18 years old when the petitioner married and the parents did not provide their consent. The Nullity petition based on this ground has to be filed within four years after the party turns 18. The parent of the minor may also file the Petition provided it is filed prior to the minor turning 18. Another situation is a bigamist marriage where the first spouse has been absent and not known to be living for 5 years prior to the second marriage or if the party believed the spouse to be dead at the time of the second marriage.

A Nullity based on this ground may be filed during the life of the other party.

A marriage may be voided if either party was of unsound mind at the time of the marriage. Unsound Mind means a person is incapable of understanding the nature of the marriage contract and the duties and responsibilities it creates which depends on the degree of mental capacity of the party.

This may not be a ground if the party later on came to reason yet continued to freely cohabitate with the spouse.

Fraud is another ground for voiding a marriage. The false representation or concealment must relate to a substantive mat-

ter and directly affect the purpose of the party deceived in entering the marriage. The fraud must go to the very essence of the marital relation before it is sufficient for an annulment. It is not sufficient simply to contend that your spouse turned out to be a lazy, drunken disappointment. Nullity based on fraud has to be filed within four years of discovering the fraud.

Certain marriages that are entered into by force are voidable. Circumstances that meet these standards requires that the forced party’s free will to have been overcome by the spouse such as through the use of threats. These type of Nullity must be filed within four years from the date of marriage. A marriage where the spouse was found to be incapable of physically engaging in copulation may be voided. It can only be filed by the spouse that does not have the physical incapacity and must be filed within four years of the marriage. Before deciding weather a divorce is the appropriate avenue to end your marriage, parties should evaluate if a Nullity is a viable alternative and weather it serves their best interest. *** 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

Protecting Your Home

by Andrew

PArAnAl, eSQ

IN my last article, Protecting Your Home, Part 1 (March 23, 2016), we discussed how you can get Medi-Cal to pay the high cost of long-term care. Hopefully by now, you have a basic understanding that your home is “exempt” to qualify, but not exempt from recovery. Therefore, we mentioned that you may legally protect your home by transferring the home to a loved one.

However, while this does work for protecting a property from a future Medi-Cal recovery, there are several drawbacks. When you transfer the home to a child to protect against Medi-Cal recovery, it is a completed gift/ transfer. The home now belongs to that child. If the child you transferred your home to has debt or incurs some sort of liability, your former home is now vulnerable to your child’s creditors.

Another drawback is that when you transfer your home outright to your child(ren), it is a completed transfer and cannot be undone. This is can be a problem because it is easiest to transfer to one individual but you may have other persons you want to share in the inheritance of your house. If you did an outright transfer it now belongs to the person you gave it to; you cannot force them to give it back or to divide it up with their siblings or other people you want to inherit.

Many older couples transfer their homes to their children without consulting an attorney and executing the proper

Andrew Paranal, ESQ

documents. In this case, a child can kick their own parents out of the home that was once theirs and sell it. Unfortunately, this does happen. With an irrevocable trust, you can remain in your home your entire life as the trust will contain a provision making it impossible to sell the home as long as you want to remain in the property.

In addition, an outright transferring of your house to your children can cause some undesired tax consequences. The child you transferred the residence to will now be responsible for paying the property tax. If any portion of the property generates rental income, the child will be responsible for income tax as well.

There is a better way. Transferring your home into an irrevocable trust will not only protect your home from a future MediCal recovery claim, but it solves all of the above mentioned problems. First, with a correctly drafted irrevocable trust, you can still

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pay both the property taxes and income taxes connected with the in the exact same way you did before you created the trust!

Finally, since the property belongs to the trust and not to the children at the time you create your irrevocable trust, it is not vulnerable to your children’s or beneficiaries’ creditors. Also, with the creation of an irrevocable trust you do not have estate (or gift) taxes (provided your estate is under the $5 million exemption) and your children will receive a full step-up in basis upon your death. Finally, your children will also receive an exclusion from property tax reassessment.

In conclusion, an irrevocable trust is the best way to make sure your children inherit the family home free of any Medi-Cal recovery claim. But, in order to make sure you avoid family conflicts or unwanted tax consequences, it’s a good idea to contact an estate planning attorney to discuss what we call the Medi-Cal House Protection Trust *** Elder Law Services of California is proud to announce that attorney Andrew Paranal has joined its trust department. Mr. Paranal began his career in estate planning in 2013 and has since expanded into asset protection and Medi-Cal planning. He became interested in Elder Law after helping care for a family member who experienced a debilitating event. Mr. Paranal is excited to join an established law firm and hopes to educate his Filipino community about the tremendous benefits of proper estate planning.

For more information, please visit elderlawcalifornia.com or call 1-800-411-0546 (Advertising Supplement)

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Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. YOWAN Yang worked for ActioNet as an information technology technician. ActioNet is a contractor providing technical support to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Cy Tymony was another technician who worked with Yang on the same team. Yang worked four feet away from Tymony’s cubicle. On July 24, 2012, Yang and Tymony had an argument about the noises that Tymony could hear from Yang’s cubicle. During the argument, Tymony attacked Yang and destroyed Yang’s work station.

ActioNet quickly responded by terminating both Yang and Tymony from work, but failed to conduct an investigation.

Two days after the incident, FAA federal investigators reported to ActioNet that Yang was a “complete victim” in the altercation. However, ActioNet ignored Yang’s request for an explanation, and refused to reinstate him back into his position.

Yang attempted to move on with his life. But because he was fired “for cause,” he found it difficult to find another job similar to what he was doing prior to his termination. He eventually could not continue with his career, he lost his apartment, and he suffered anxiety and depression.

Yang sued ActioNet for wrongful termination, claiming that he was a victim of workplace violence, and that ActioNet violated his civil rights, specifically the

To Live With Faith reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAS A LONGTIME theology professor of St. John’s Seminary once gave a homily that struck me.

He said that in his forty years of teaching the dogmas of the Catholic Church and serving as a priest, he has seen how the Holy Spirit has played a big part in the life of the church. “Dogmas are important,” he said, “but we can never underestimate how the Holy Spirit can lead us to a deeper understanding of the truth of our faith and how this truth should affect the church and the lives of our people.”

This happened in the ministry of the apostles during the early period of the church. As Paul and his fellow missionaries gained success in converting Gentiles to become Christians, the question of imposing the Mosaic law of circumcision on the Gentile churches arose.

To resolve this issue, Paul and Barnabas went up to Jerusalem to confer with the apostles and elders. After some time, the apostles and elders decided to send representatives along with Paul and Barnabas to the Gentile churches to give them this answer: “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities, namely, to abstain from meat sacrificed to idols, from blood, from meats and strangled animals, and from unlawful marriage. If you keep free of these, you will be doing what is right” (Act 15:28-29).

Indeed, the Holy Spirit enlightened the minds of the apostles and gave them wisdom on how to deal with the issues of the growing church. This was a testimony to what Jesus has promised: “I have told you this while I am with you. The Advo-

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Protecting employees Writ of mandamus relief for unreasonable against workplace violence delay in pending immigration filings right to be protected from bodily harm, and the right to be free of threats, intimidation and coercion.

The employer countered that it fired Yang because he provoked Tymony into the conflict. It also claimed that FAA took Yang off the contract and they had no work for Yang.

At trial, Yang showed that other employees had previously complained to ActioNet about Tymony’s aggressive actions to other employees. In ignoring these complaints, Yang accused the employer of being negligent.

Yang also contended that the FAA cleared him of wrongdoing.

The jury returned a verdict in favor of the employee, and awarded Yang $2,393,540, which includes past and future loss of earnings damages. The jury also awarded him punitive damages in the amount of $5 million, for a total award of $7,393,540.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workplace violence is a growing concern for employees nationwide. Workplace violence refers to violence at work that may range from verbal abuse and threats, to physical assault and homicide. The violence may be committed against an employee by a co-worker or non-co-worker. Although some employees are more at risk than others, no one is immune.

How can employees protect themselves, particularly in situations where the perpetrator is another employee? The OSHA

suggests that employees learn how to recognize, avoid, or diffuse potentially violent situations by attending personal safety training programs. Supervisors should also be alerted to any concerns about safety or security and report all incidents immediately in writing. If the employer does not respond to a complaint, the employee should document and log all incidents and threats of workplace violence.

Any form of violence at work is unacceptable. Victims have the right to come forward and report incidents of harassment or abuse. Unfortunately, many victims may choose to remain silent in order not to “rock the boat” or because of fear that the perpetrator will retaliate and they would lose their jobs.

Employees who experience workplace violence are well-advised to consult with an experienced employment attorney to know their rights and protect themselves. *** The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are confidential and at no-cost. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www. joesayaslaw.com. *** C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully obtained significant recoveries for thousands of employees and consumers. He is named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum.

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The Holy Spirit in the church…and the world cate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid” (John 14:26-27).

Today the Catholic Church is dealing with many issues that affect the lives of Catholic Christians around the globe such as same sex marriage, family breakdown, abortion, death penalty, sexual abuse, differences in liturgical viewpoints among clergy and faithful, the role of Church in politics, and scandals in the Vatican Curia. It is our hope and desire that the Holy Spirit continues to guide the Catholic Church in its stand with these challenging issues.

One big manifestation of the present and power of the Holy Spirit in the Catholic Church is the leadership of Pope Francis.

There is no doubt in many faithful Catholics that the Holy Spirit guided the College of Bishops in the election of the Cardinal of Argentina to be the pope in these challenging times. As many people say, including those who are not Catholics, Pope Francis is the best thing that has happened today in the Catholic Church.

Pope Francis’s groundbreaking new document “Amoris Laetitia” (“The Joy of Love”) is absolutely the work of the Holy Spirit. The well-known Jesuit writer, Fr. James Martin, gives a review of the pope’s document in America, The National Catholic Review. He says that the document “asks the church to meet people where they are, to consider the complexities of people’s lives and to respect people’s consciences when it comes to moral decision. The apostolic exhortation is mainly a document that reflects on family life and encourages families.

But it is also a reminder that the church should avoid simply

judging people and imposing rules on them without considering struggles.”

Fr. James Martin, S.J. delineates ten things to know about the pope’s groundbreaking document: • The Church needs to understand families and individuals in all their complexity. So pastors are to “avoid judgments which do not take into account the complexity of various situations” (296).

• The role of conscience is paramount in moral decision making. “Individual conscience needs to be better incorporated into the church’s practices in certain situations which do not objectively embody our understanding of marriage” (303).

• Divorced and remarried Catholics need to be more fully integrated into the church.

“They are not excommunicated and should not be treated as such, since they remain part” of the church (243).

• All members of the family need to be encouraged to live good Christian lives. Good marriage is a “dynamic process” and that each side has to put up with imperfections. “Love does not have to be perfect for us to value it” (122, 113).

• We should no longer talk about people “living in sin.” “It can no longer be simply said that all those living in any ‘irregular situation’ are living in a state of mortal sin” (301).

• What might work in one place may not work in another.

“Each country or region…can seek solutions better suited to its culture and sensitive to its traditions and local needs” (3).

• Traditional teachings on marriage are affirmed, but the church should not burden people with unrealistic expectations. To that end, seminarians

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A COMMON question that is asked by a person who has a pending immigration petition or application is “how much longer until USCIS makes a decision?” The question is understandable, in that an unreasonable delay in the USCIS’ adjudication of a petition or application can have adverse effects, including loss of employment and employment opportunities, possible termination of employment, and difficulties in obtaining student and credit loans.

While an immigration filing is pending, the typical response

by USCIS upon inquiry is that further time (usually 90 or 180 days) is needed to make a decision. However, often that 90 or 180 days that USCIS needs to make a decision turns into months and sometimes years. What option does a petitioner or applicant have to compel the USCIS to act on his or her case?

Pursuant to the Mandamus and Venue Act of 1962, a Writ of Mandamus action can be filed in the US District Courts to compel the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the USCIS, DHS’s bureau, to act on a petition or application for which adjudication has been unreasonably delayed. The statute allows for an “action to compel an officer of the United States to perform his duty.”

The legal duty for USCIS to promptly act on a pending petition or application can be found in the Administrative Procedures Act (“APA”), 8 USC Sec. 1571, and 5 USC Sec. 555(b). These statutes form the basis of Writ of Mandamus relief.

The APA gives the court authority to “compel agency action unlawfully held and unreasonable delayed.” The policy for processing immigration applications is set forth under 8 USC Sec. 1571, which states that “the processing of an immigration benefit application should be completed no later than 180 days after the initial filing of the application.” Further, 5 USC Sec. 555(b) states that “within a reasonable time, each agency shall proceed to conclude a matter presented to it.”

A typical case in which Writ of Mandamus relief is a viable option is in a green card application based on marriage. I have had several inquiries in recent months concerning delays in processing of these cases. Typically, the green card applicant along with his or her US Citizen spouse is interviewed by a USCIS officer and at the end of the interview, the green card applicant is advised that additional time is needed by USCIS to make a decision. The timeframe given to make a decision is 180 days; however, more than 180 days pass and no decision is made. The applicant then seeks to get updated status of the application via an Infopass appointment, and is advised that the case is still under consideration and more time is needed.

In such a case, a writ of mandamus can be filed in Federal Court to compel the USCIS to act on the application. Often, a decision is made on the case after the Writ of Mandamus is filed in that the unreasonable delay is brought to the attention of the USCIS. A prompt decision is often made

by USCIS after filing to avoid the use of government resources in having to defend the meritorious action.

It is important to keep in mind that Writ of Mandamus relief is available to a variety of pending petitions and applications, not just green card applications based on marriage. To determine whether Writ of Mandamus relief is a good option in your pending immigration case, it is recommended that you seek the advice of an experienced attorney. *** Darrick V. Tan, Esq. is admitted to practice law in California and Nevada. Mr. Tan is a graduate of UCLA and Southwestern University School of Law. He is a member of the Consumers Attorney Association of Los Angeles and is a former member of the Board of Governors of the Philipp ine American Bar Association.

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

Grace Poe and the idea of…

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lenges from her detractors.

The special status that citizenship confers—and the rights and benefits that come with citizenship—often inflame passions of national identity and the abstract notion of “belonging.” Poe’s candidacy provides an opportunity for constructive dialogue about the idea of citi-

zenship, and about the costs of and Makati City. giving that status away.

Telephone: (800) 795-8009 *** E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com

Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 795-8009 or visit www. rreeves.com. His offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas

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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C APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENT and husband are the only stockholders of an S corporation that has been doing well for the last 15 years. In fact, it’s still doing well and had a great year last year. What is the difference between and S corporation and a C corporation? In an S corporation, the business income is declared in the 1040 of the owners, while the C Corporation files its own tax returns. But both corporations are legally separate entities from their owners. The corporation is a ‘person’ created by legal fiction. It can do whatever a real person does, legally.

For instance, a corporation can buy and sell land, transact business in its own name, file a lawsuit and be sued in its own name, without affecting the owners of the corporation.

In client’s case, the problem is that husband is ill and can no longer run the business. So wife now will run the business. Her concern is that the corporation owes $1.5 M to banks and suppliers, and that she has equity in her residence of $1.0 M? So what is the connection between the two?

Client is worried that if something happens to the business and it cannot pay the $1.5M, can the bank sue her and get her house?

Let’s analyze the problem. The first thing that has to be determined is whether or not husband, and/or client signed any personal guaranties that made them personally liable for the debts of the corporation. If neither one of them gave any written personal guaranty to any creditor for the debt of the business, then the answer is that the creditors of the business will not be able to get her house to satisfy the debts of the business. But certainly, creditors will attempt to penetrate the veil of corporate fiction to get to client’s house. Creditors will sue the corporation and client and allege that the corporate fiction should be invalidated or ‘pierced.’

Of course, creditors will attempt to do this, but can they be successful in proving the allegation, and end up with a court order setting aside the corporate that shields the personal assets of the owners of the corporation?

To pierce the corporate veil to get to the house of client, creditors will have to prove that the

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Will business bankruptcy alendar of Events C across affect owners of the business? corporation was simply the ‘alter ego’ of the owners, that it was not operated by owners like a real corporation. The easiest way to prove the ‘alter ego’ attack on the corporation is proven by a preponderance of evidence that personal funds of the owners were being intermingled with the funds of the corporation. In other words, the owners were using the corporation as a ‘piggy bank.’

So, in client’s case, if there was no intermingling of personal and corporate funds, client’s house is secure because creditors will not be able to pierce the corporate veil to get her house to pay for the debts of the corporation.

Salary payments to the owners; because they are officers of the corporation, is not intermingling of funds. Money lent by owners to the corporation is considered to be a debt owed by the corporation to the owner-lender, just like any other debt. This is not intermingling of funds.

However, if the owners use the corporate account to pay personal bills, this is intermingling of funds. Another reason to pierce the corporate veil is that corporate formalities were not followed such as recording board resolutions for decisions made by the company. Yet another reason is that the owners perpetrated a financial fraud on the creditors.

What is financial fraud? If the owners acted recklessly in their business transactions resulting in major debt that they knew the business had no chance in paying back, this could be viewed as financial fraud and could be used to pierce the corporate veil.

Let’s say owners borrowed $5.0 M from creditors based on projected sales of $50M per year but in reality sales came in at $1.0M a year, a case can be argued by creditors saying that owners were reckless in their decision to borrow $5.0M. But certainly, owners may still prevail in prov-

ing that they were justified in their $50M sales projections but something happened that was totally unexpected. It’s really a matter of proof at trial.

So what is the lesson here? If you own a business, do not ever personally guarantee the debts of the business. If the creditor requires your personal guaranty, go to another bank or supplier who will extend credit to your business without tying you in. If the business fails, at least you don’t lose any of your personal assets. You will still have a house to live in. There is no reason to ‘go for broke’ and put your family’s security at risk, is there? The other lesson is that do not intermingle personal funds with business funds, and make sure the corporation follows legal formalities and procedures. If you do this, then your corporation will do business by assuming its own debts and shield your personal assets from business debts.

Now if client wishes to not continue doing business, the S corporation itself can file a Chapter 7 bankruptcy to handle the $1.5 M of corporate debt. The corporate bankruptcy will not affect the personal assets of client because as I said earlier, a corporation is a separate “person” created by legal fiction; therefore, it can file for bankruptcy without affecting the personal assets of the owners of the corporation.

“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever.” — 1 Timothy 1:17 *** Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil litigation and has successfully represented more than five thousand clients in California.

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

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Grounds for annulling a…

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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, nonspecific 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)

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 APRIL 30

COSC celebrates 27th Anniversary The Candonians of Southern California (COSC), under the leadership of their newly elected president, Mrs. Elizabeth Gacula Singh, will celebrate their 27th Anniversary on April 30 at the Doubletree Hotel-Monrovia (924 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia). Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. For questions and those interested, please email thecandoniansofsocal@gmail.com.

FALEO Kamayan The Filipino American Law Enforcement Officers Association (FALEO), a 501c(3) nonprofit organization, along with Pastor Chef, a graduate of Le Cordon Blue College of Culinary Arts, have come together to host an event that samples some traditional and popular dishes from his restaurant. Guests will receive an exclusive experience, as the restaurant is not open to the general public during the time of the event. The event will be a classic taste of Filipino cooking where utensils are optional. Menu items will include chicken adobo, pancit, lumpiang Shanghai, crispy pata and bangus. Tickets are $20 for FALEO members and $30 for general guests. Proceeds will benefit FALEO-LA’s Annual Scholarship program. Seats are limited and those who do not pre-pay may not have a seat. For reservations, please contact Arlene Herrero at (213) 435-8700.

Philippine election forum An informative forum regarding the Philippine election will take place at Eagle Rock Lutheran Church from 10am to noon. A representative from the Philippine embassy and representatives of presidential candidates Rodrigo Duterte, Grace Poe, Mar Roxas and Jejomar Binay will be there to answer questions regarding their party. The church is located at 5032 North Maywood Ave, Eagle Rock 90041.

APRIL — SEPTEMBER

Pilgrimages to Eastern Europe, Mexico and India Amazing Pilgrimages for the Jubilee Year of Mercy! All are welcome to join Fr. Joe Joseph of Holy Trinity Church for the spiritual and fun-filled experiences of EASTERN EUROPE (April 17- 30): Poland, Czech., Austria, Hungary, Medjugorje; COLONIAL MEXICO/ OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE (June 20 - 27): Mexico City, Theotihuacan, Puebla, Tlaxcala, Ocotlan, Xochimilco, Guanajuato, San Miguel De Allende, Guadalajara, San Juan De Los Lagos, Cristo Rey, Zapopan, Tonala; and INDIA (September 15 - 29): Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Kolkata, Kerala. For more pilgrimage information and detailed flyers, please contact Bernadette at bcorp1114@hotmail.com OR call 323-344-1548 & 323-547-6618.

M AY 7

Community Mini Health & Resource Fair May is Hepatitis Month, and Asian Pacific Liver Center has teamed up with Asian Pacific Health Care Venture to offer Hepatitis B screenings at the Community Mini Health & Resources Fair on Saturday, May 7, from 9am to noon. The event will feature an educational awareness workshop to promote Hepatitis B prevention as well as blood pressure screening, blood sugar checks and various community resources. The fair will take place at Center of Hope, 2707 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, California 90026. For more information, contact Perla Santos (323) 664 3880 Ext. 341 or email psantos@aphcv.org.

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

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People and Events

Kalayaan Incorporated Annual Gala Dinner Ball

State Senator Bob Huff swears into office the FACLA officers, from left: Fernandico Q. Gonong Jr., president; Aleli Neal, auditor; Rosalinda Nery, treasurer; Dr. Orlando Cagampan, secretary; Gloria Resurreccion, third vice president; Dr. Veronico Agatep, second vice president; Apolonio Julian, first vice president; and Art Garcia, director.

FACLA officers sworn in during 71st Gala Night

LOS ANGELES — The new set of officers of the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA), the oldest existing Filipino community organization in the United States, were sworn into office last Sunday, April 24, during its 71st Anniversary Gala Night at the Glendale Hilton in Glendale.

Inducted by State Senator Bob Huff were Fernandico Q. Gonong Jr, president; Apolonio Julian, first vice president; Dr. Veronico Agatep, second vice president; Gloria Resurreccion, third vice president; Rosalinda Nery, treasurer; Aleli Neal, auditor; Dr. Orlando Cagampan, secretary; and Arturo Garcia, director.

Gonong replaced former president Austin G. Baul, whose term expired on Dec. 31, 2015 under the organization’s constitution and by-laws. Gonong will serve for four years.

Not present in the induc-

tion rites were Baul, Danilo Adlawan, Leticia Reyes, Manocito Santos, Susan de Guzman, Susan Pineda and Teddy Mangune, directors.

FACLA was established on April 26, 1945 shortly before the end of the Second World War as a halfway house for Filipino farm workers who settled in Los Angeles to work as seasonal workers in different states from as far north as Alaska and as far west as Missouri and Illinois. It is believed to be the oldest nonprofit organization in the US. The present FACLA building was built in 1965 on the same site where the two halfway houses were built on Temple Street in what is now known as Historic Filipinotown.

During the event, Senator Huff and the Office of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti awarded Certificates of Recognition to outstanding members of the community and media.

Piyesta Pinoy Bolingbrook PLEASE join us on Saturday, June 4 for the 3rd Philippine Fest Celebration (Piyesta Pinoy sa Bolingbrook) at the beautiful Bolingbrook Performing Arts Center (375 W. Briarcliff Rd. Bolingbrook, IL).

This year’s event will include a variety of food vendors, business, merchandise, and non-profit organizations, as well as hours of dance, games, and musical entertainment, including special guest performances.

The Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) is proud to promote and share our rich Filipino cultural heritage and traditions in America.

Your participation and support are always valuable and critical to the survival of PACF and its programs.

For more information, or to volunteer, perform, exhibit, or donate, please visit www.piyestapinoy.net, or email Piyestpinoy@gmail.com. n

The Holy Spirit in the church…

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and priests need to be better trained to understand the complexities of married lives. “Ordained ministers often lack the training needed to deal with the complex problems currently facing families” (202).

• Children must be educated in sex and sexuality within the “broader framework of an education for love and mutual selfgiving” (280).

• Gay men and women should be respected. Families with LGBT members need “respectful pastoral guidance” from church and its pastors so that gays and lesbians can fully carry out God’s will in their lives” (250).

• All are welcome. The family is an absolutely essential part of the church, because after all,

the church is a “family of families” (80).

May the Holy Spirit, through the leadership and wisdom of Pope Francis, continue to guide the Catholic Church in leading its people and the whole world to live just, merciful, and decent lives! *** 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.

Right 1095 to avoid tax…

PAGE C2 t

people have multiple 1095 forms.

For example, in certain months, a person may be in MediCal so he would have a 1095B, but for the rest of the year, if he is with Covered CA IFP, he would also receive a 1095A. Since the 1095B and 1095C are new this year and most of them were issued in late March, most affected taxpayers are caught unaware of their importance prior to filing their tax returns. They show the months the insureds are in the health plan and that info is used in tax filing.

You need to contact the sender of the form if the info is incorrect.

We see that more people are more concerned with the 1095A this year, primarily because of heavier penalty compared to previous year. People who are supposed to have 1095A but didn’t use that info to file tax will get an IRS letter. Unfortunately, some of those who are supposed to get one were not mailed one or worse, were not prepared one by Covered CA. Those who have access to their Covered CA account can verify if there is a 1095A softcopy. Those who do not have own access can ask their agents to check for them. While its existence is being verified in the account, those people must also verify if their residence and mailing addresses are still current.

Perhaps the reason why they did not get 1095A in the mail is because they did not report the address change.

If you believe that you should have a 1095A but never got one, or you got one, but the info is

incorrect, then you need to file a dispute form. If the names in the household are wrong, or a household member is missing, then that should be disputed. Or perhaps you have paid certain months to your health insurance but they did not reflect in the 1095A, then they should be disputed. Or the 1095A is incorrectly showing you are terminated.

The absence or the inaccuracy of 1095A will impact the penalty computation for sure. For 2015, the penalty is roughly greater of 2 percent of household income or $325 per adult. For 2016, it is even higher; greater of 2.5 percent of household income or $695 per adult. Since the computation is done on per household and per month basis, you want the 1095A to rightly reflect what you truly have.

When you buy a piece of equipment, you should consider after sales, like where to get service. Similarly, when you buy an insurance, you expect good service. Only buy from knowledgeable, trustworthy and reliable agents. For Covered CA plans, I suggest that you engage Certified Insurance Agents with Covered CA approved Storefronts.

You may want to contact www.

GlobalWealthInsuranceServices. com. Their agents can help you submit the Covered CA dispute form. They can also help you enroll into a plan to avoid this hefty 2016 penalty for not having health insurance. *** For more information, please contact Joseph Doratan at 8559551800 or info@ GlobalWealthInsuranceServices.com.

The awardees were: Gonong, for community leadership; Dexter Grey, for music; Dr. Erlinda Grey, for medicine and humanitarian service; Vina Nacionales, for community and humanitarian service; and Dr. Salvador Abiera, for medicine and humanitarian service.

The media members who were awarded for excellence in journalism were: Val G. Abelgas, editor of Philippine Tribune; Rhony Laigo, editor of Weekend Balita; Lydia V. Solis, senior correspondent of Philippine News; Ella Wagner, editor of Philippine Media; Mylah de Leon, president of Pens N Lens Press Club and columnist of Asian Journal; and Romeo Borje, Lifetime Achievement Award in Journalism. n

LOS ANGELES, CA — On June 11, 2016, Kalayaan Incorporated will hold the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with its Annual Gala Dinner Ball at The Concourse Hotel, A Hyatt Affiliated Hotel at Los Angeles International Airport.

This year’s program of festivities and entertainment traditional songs and dances will be featured through the performances

by Christine Love, Sam Santiago, Manny Evaldez, PASACAT Philippine Performing Arts Company, a Rondalla and the Bits N’ Pieces Band. This year’s Masters of Ceremony are Ms. Lydia Solis and Mr. Noel Omega. With the Southern California Filipino American Community being the largest concentration of Filipinos outside of the Philippines, this annual event brings the community together to celebrate a cherished moment in our history with guests dressed in traditional Philippine formal attire and fashion. In addition, beautiful Filipina Dilags will be showcased in a program under the direction of Mr. Ted Benito and the Kalayaan Celebrations Program Committee headed by last year’s Kalayaan Overall Chair Ms. Zeny Sabocor.

As with every Filipino Community event in Southern California related to Philippine history, tradition and culture, the guidance and support of the Philippine Consulate General Los Angeles is instrumental in developing

Consul General Leo Herrera Lim

this annual event and as a special tribute, this year’s guest speaker will be Philippine Consul General Leo Herrera Lim, who will provide the attendees with his farewell words of wisdom as he will be leaving his PCGLA post in late June after a five year tenure in the United States. This will allow the audience to bid Consul General Lim a farewell and thank him for his great service to the Los Angeles Community.

Leading this year’s 2016 annual celebration are Kalayaan Inc. President Josie De Jesus and Kalayaan Inc. Vice President Jose Relson Banas, who are the OverAll Chair and Vice Chair respectively of the 2016 Kalayaan Celebrations Committee.

Josie and Jose provide great leadership in the development of the 2016 celebrations event so we shall again have an outstanding and honorable Celebration

come June 11.

For information about Tickets to the Gala Event Dinner Ball and subscription for a Souvenir Book message page or other inquiries please call the following persons below; Gil Mislang…….(562) 4176772, Lydia Solis……(626) 8271036 n

C APRIL 30-MAY 3, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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&

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

Immigrants with criminal convictions should not leave the US or apply for citizenship without making sure it’s ‘safe’

Dear Atty Gurfinkel: I HAVE been a green card holder for many years. Several years ago, I was convicted of a crime. I served the sentence and even had the conviction expunged (or “erased” from my record.) I would like to take a brief vacation to the Philippines to visit my family and friends. Do you think I will encounter any problems with US Immigration when I return?

Very truly yours, T.W. Dear T.W.: Under US immigration laws, if a non-citizen, including green card holders, commits certain types of crimes, that person could be considered inadmissible (not entitled to enter the US) or removable (deportable). There have also been many changes to our laws that have reclassified certain crimes as “aggravated

felonies,” (which are very serious crimes), and those changes were made retroactive (or will apply to past convictions).

Even if the crime was committed years ago, it could still come back to haunt the person. This is true even if the conviction was expunged, as there have been Court and Board of Immigration Appeal decisions stating that an expungement will not erase the fact that a person was “convicted” of the crime.

Therefore, if a non-citizen ever committed a crime that makes him “inadmissible” or “removable,” that person most definitely will encounter problems if he leaves the US and later tries to return. He could be denied admission to the US and sent immediately back, or he could be put in removal proceedings and detained (or held in custody in a prison) until his case is over,

Immigration Corner

Consumer group Citizenwatch said that whoever becomes the next president must give primary focus on drastically upgrading the country’s rickety infrastructure that is causing great inconvenience and millions of pesos in lost man-hours to millions of Filipino consumers every day.

Philstar.com photo

Next government urged to focus on infrastructure

MANILA—Consumer group Citizenwatch has called on President Aquino’s successor to give immediate focus on drastically improving the country’s infrastructure.

Citizenwatch secretary general Wilford Wong said amid the worsening traffic jams in Metro-Manila’s history, whoever becomes the next president must give primary

focus on drastically upgrading the country’s rickety infrastructure that is causing great inconvenience and millions of pesos in lost man-hours to millions of Filipino consumers every day.

“Infrastructure is now a key political issue. It is not just the productivity that is affected when PAGE D2

PH remains outside US list of piracy hubs

by Richmond

meRcuRio Philstar.com

MANILA—The Philippines has remained out of the US government’s list of countries considered as piracy hubs.

The Office of the US Trade Representative’s Special 301 Report released Wednesday, April 27 showed the country for the third straight year managed to stay out of the list which identifies countries with intellectual property rights (IPR) problems.

This year’s report reviewed 73 US trading partners, in which 34

were placed on the priority watch list or watch list.

A country’s placement on the priority watch list or watch list means there are problems on IPR protection, enforcement, or market access for persons relying on IP. For this year, 11 countries were placed on the priority watch list namely, Algeria, Argentina, Chile, China, India, Indonesia, Kuwait, Russia, Thailand, Ukraine and Venezuela.

Meanwhile, 23 countries were on the watch list status with Switzerland as this year’s PAGE D2

ADA litigation nightmares to continue for many California business owners Committee votes down SB 1142 proposal for needed ADA reform SACRAMENTO—On Wednesday, April 27, Senate Bill 1142, presented by Senator Moorlach (R-Costa Mesa), was voted down on a 2-4 vote in the Senate Judiciary Committee with Senators Anderson and Moorlach supporting the bill, and Senator Hertzberg abstaining. SB 1142 would allow small business owners – many of whom are “mom-and-pop” businesses – a “right to cure” within 120 days any identified non-compliance of the Construction-Related Accessibility Standards Compliance Act or Federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This bill would initially protect targeted businesses from penalties and attorney’s fees

Sen. John M. W. Moorlach

before an expensive lawsuit can be filed, as long as they fixed their ADA problem. Additionally, where there is conflict between the fedPAGE D2

Business Quote of the Week “A business is successful to the extent that it provides a product or service that contributes to happiness in all of its forms.”

- Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Professor of Psychology and author

which could take months or years.

The reason is that if a green card holder with a criminal record seeks to re-enter the US, the Immigration Inspectors at the airport (Customs and Border Protection) have access to his entire record, including the person’s immigration history and criminal record. This is especially the case after 9\11, when law enforcement agencies throughout the country are sharing their databases.

The person’s entire criminal history may now be a part of DHS’s database. The record pops up on the Immigration Inspector’s computer screen, and the person finds himself in a lot of trouble, including being detained and placed in removable proceedings.

I have come across several cases involving immigrants with old convictions, who made the mistake of taking a brief vacation outside the US. When they tried to return to the US, they

effectively “woke up” the Immigration Inspectors, who were now alerted to the fact that the person is inadmissible or removable. Had they not left the US, the situation may have never come to the attention of DHS. However, by taking a brief trip, they mistakenly brought themselves to the attention of DHS, and face a lifetime of disaster.

The same is true in applying for citizenship: your criminal record will come to light, as you must be fingerprinted, and questions on the form as about past crimes.

While there may be hope for some of these people, through “waivers” (or forgiveness) and appeals to their removal, is it really worth taking the chance? I don’t think any trip outside the US is worth the risk of being placed in removal proceedings.

I know that some people with past convictions will try to argue, “but I was already able to visit the Philippines after my conviction, and was able to return. So that must mean that everything

D

ERRATUM: In the column of Atty. Michael Gurfinkel for the week of April 11-16, the Visa Bulletin for May 2016 contained an error. The Visa Issuance Date for the First Preference (Unmarried sons and daughter of US citizens, over 21 years of age) should be OCT. 1, 2004 and not July 1, 2004 as previously printed. Asian Journal regrets any confusion this error may have caused. is OK, and I won’t encounter problems the next time I travel.”

I would say that such a person may have just been lucky the last time he traveled. Just because you were lucky the last time, does not mean your “luck” will hold out forever.

I want to be clear that noncitizens with certain convictions are removable even if they never leave the US. However, leaving the US simply increases the risks of bringing your situation to the attention of the DHS and hastening your possible permanent removal.

So, don’t take chances. And if you should ever get that “knock on the door” from DHS because of an old conviction, I would strongly recommend you immediately seek the advice of a reputable attorney, who can analyze your situation, and determine if you could qualify for any form of

relief from being removed, such as waivers or legal challenges to your conviction or removal. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

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

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES (Advertising Supplement)

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Bills to make arbitration fairer for Atlas Xpress Padala opens newest consumers advance in California Senate outlet at Seafood City, Daly City Consumers would not be forced to travel out of state to represent themselves in binding private arbitration; could have a court reporter present

SACrAmenTo—Californians forced to resolve a dispute through private, binding arbitration would no longer be additionally forced by a corporation to travel out of state to represent themselves, under a bill by State Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) that was approved Tuesday, April 26, by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Consumers and employees are increasingly forced to sign arbitration agreements that limit or deny their day in court or prohibit their ability to file class-action lawsuits, just to get a job, or receive basic services or products, such as a credit card or cell phone. But they can also be compelled to travel across the country at their own expense to represent themselves in arbitration cases.

“In this private, for-profit justice system the deck is stacked against consumers and employees who simply cannot afford to dig into their pockets to fly across the country to new York or whatever jurisdiction the corporation picks,” said Wieckowski, a member of the Judiciary Committee. “my bill makes clear if you are a California consumer and you purchase goods and services from a California company, or you are a Californian working for a company doing business in our state, the arbitration must take place in California. Forcing someone to

DALY CITY—Atlas Xpress Padala opened its newest outlet at the Seafood City supermarket on Westborough, Daly City, California on Tuesday, April 26.

(Advertising Supplement)

Atlas Xpress Padala inaugurated its newest outlet at the Seafood City complex in Westborough, Daly City last Tuesday, April 26.

Tara Zoumer (left) testifies in support of Senator Bob Wieckowski’s SB 1241 to make the arbitration process fairer for California consumers and employers.

travel out of state has a chilling effect on their ability to receive justice.”

Tara Zoumer testified in support of Wieckowski’s bill. She filed a wrongful termination suit against her California employer.

She was let go by the company after refusing to sign an arbitration agreement. She filed suit in San Francisco Superior Court, but is now being forced to go through arbitration in new York.

The committee also approved another Wieckowski bill, SB 1007, affirming a person has the right to a certified court reporter in private arbitration.

“Without a court reporter cre-

ating a record of the proceedings, a consumer often lacks the documentation to support claims of misconduct, or fraud in the arbitration process,” Wieckowski said.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) completed the most exhaustive study done on arbitration in the United States.

The CFPB found 92 percent of prepaid card agreements and 88 percent of mobile wireless providers who authorize third parties to charge consumers for services include arbitration clauses. Similarly high arbitration percentages were found in other industries reviewed by the federal CFPB.

Old friends meet again at the opening of the Atlas Xpress Padala at the Seafood City complex at Westborough, Daly City – (L-R) Gerry Palabyab, formerly of Manila Bulletin USA, Joel Longares, owner and CEO of Atlas Xpress and Roger Oriel, Chairman and Publisher of Asian Journal Publishing group.

Next government urged to focus on...

PAGE D1 one has to endure an hour and half to two hours just to travel five to six kilometers to work and another two hours to get back home. The serious situation in our transportation and power supply is the result of years of government inaction,” said Wong.

Just over a month before the 2016 elections, an international think tank called on the next administration to not only pour massive

investment in infrastructure but ensure that they are “high-quality and extensive” projects, specifically in transport, energy, and information and communications technology (ICT).

ADr Institute president Dindo manhit said spending on infrastructure will kick-start the country’s “long overdue economic rebalancing,” away from the current consumption-driven growth to a more inclusive investment-driven growth.

“With an investment-led economy led by world-class infrastructure, the expansion of the country’s services sector will be complemented by the revitalization of the agriculture and manufacturing sectors,” according to its recently published book Thinking Beyond Politics.

The Aquino administration has substantially increased infrastructure spending over the past five years – from P165 billion in 2010 to P760 billion this year – and has laid out a multibillion-peso infrastructure blueprint for its succes-

sor from 2017 to 2019, according to the Department of Budget and management.

But Aquino’s successor still faces serious hurdles in the implementation of projects, mainly in the arena of governance and politics, according to the book.

“The next administration [has] to overcome inter-departmental and inter-party politicking, eliminate perennial bureaucratic hurdles, and ensure efficient and effective systems and mechanisms of development and implementation of transport-related projects,” it said.

In a march 2016 paper, the think tank said the government’s Public-Private Partnership Center should be transformed from a “mere coordinating agency” to a one-stop shop for infrastructure development, which will manage conceptualization, evaluation, and approval of projects.

Pending bills on the Build-operate-Transfer Law and key reforms in taxation, permits, and contracts should also be prioritized, the paper said. (Philstar.com)

The Philippines has been taken out of the list in 2014 after the government enacted a series of significant legislative and regulatory reforms that enhanced the protection and enforcement of IPR in the country.

Philstar.com photo

PH remains outside US list...

PAGE D1 latest addition. other countries on the USTr’s watch list are Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Costa rica, Dominican republic, ecuador, egypt, Greece, Guatemala, Jamaica, Lebanon, mexico, Pakistan, Peru, romania, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

The Special 301 report is an annual review of the state of IPr protection and enforcement of US trading partners.

The Philippines has been taken out of the list in 2014 after the government enacted a series of significant legislative and regulatory reforms that enhanced the protection and enforcement of IPr in the country.

Prior to its removal in the list, the country was either part of the watch list or priority watch list

since 1994.

The USTr said the US motion picture, video game, and recording industries continue to face various challenges in foreign markets that lack adequate and effective protections for IPr. The government, through the Intellectual Property office of the Philippines (IPoPHL), has been stepping up efforts to continuously curb counterfeiting and piracy in the country. early this month, IPoPHL destroyed P9.3 billion worth of counterfeit goods consist of various items ranging from shirts, shoes, toys, electronic products and food seasoning.

In line with the ongoing campaign period, meanwhile, the agency is also urging the candidates and their supporters to respect the copyright of songwriters and composers.

ADA litigation nightmares to ...

PAGE D1 eral rule and the California rule, the federal rule will preempt the California rule.

“Small businesses are the bedrock of our local communities.

There are too many accounts of exploitive ADA lawsuit abuses to turn a blind eye to what’s happening in our own backyard,” said moorlach.

“Instead of encouraging businesses to work toward compliance with ADA standards, California has created a climate where it is lucrative to sue businesses, receive a quick settlement, and move on to the next victim. SB 1142 offered hope to those small businesses who truly want to comport. Sadly, with no ‘right to cure’ protection, many California businesses will be forced to close their doors after their finances have been drained from targeted litigation.”

All over the state of California, serial plaintiffs and a select and frequent group of law firms are filing lawsuits against businesses for failure to be in compliance with the ADA. rather than work to fix the non-compliance issues, many ADA

suits are intended to extort a quick settlement from the businesses they target, rather than seeking for actual compliance, sometimes driving them out of business in order to pay. Despite legislation over the years to marginally address ADA compliance lawsuits, this problem continues and business owners need a clear “right to cure” provision in law to protect themselves and give them a chance to fix any legitimate construction defects.

“A majority of these lawsuits are being brought by a small group of attorneys and plaintiffs that have been able to find a lucrative exploitation of the law for their own gain,” moorlach said. “There is no point in having ADA compliance standards if there are no businesses left to implement them.”

SB 1142 was supported by Civil Justice Association of California, Californians Against Lawsuit Abuse, California Apartment Association, CSAC excess Insurance Authority, California retailers Association, national Federation of Independent Business, and California Chamber of Commerce.

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PH signs free trade agreement with Europe by amy

r. remO Inquirer.net

The Philippines and the four member states of the european Free Trade Association signed on Thursday a free trade agreement aimed at boosting the commercial and economic relations of the two parties.

The FTA was signed by Trade Secretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr. in behalf of the Philippine government, and by Johann N SchneiderAmman, President of Switzerland and head of the Federal Department of economic Affairs, education and Research of Switzerland; Martin eyjólfsson, Ambassador, Iceland; Aurelia Frick, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Liechtenstein; and Dilek Ayhan, State Secretary of Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries of Norway.

The signing of the FTA was said to represent an important step in further strengthening the relationship between the Philippines and eFTA. The preferential market access and the rules and disciplines governing the economic relations between the Parties under the FTA will supplement the economic cooperation and exchanges provided under the existing Joint Declaration on Cooperation, thus providing a stronger stimulus for the further development of trade and investment.

The eFTA-Philippines FTA has a comprehensive coverage, including trade in goods (industrial and agricultural goods, fish and

other marine products), rules of origin, trade facilitation, trade in services, investment, competition, protection of intellectual property rights, government procurement and sustainable development. The agreement will enter into force after the completion of the internal procedures for ratification by the parties.

Merchandise trade between the eFTA States and the Philippines has increased at an average annual rate of 11 percent between 2005 and 2015. In 2015, total merchandise trade between the eFTA States and the Philippines stood at $863 million. eFTA’s key exports to the Philippines were pharmaceuticals,

clocks and watches, and machinery while eFTA’s imports mainly consisted of precious metals, electrical machinery and medical instruments.

Philippine exports to eFTA include gold, electronic parts and dental prosthesis.

With a combined population of over 13 million and a combined GDP of $1.2 trillion, the eFTA States are the world’s 9th largest merchandise trader and the 5th largest trader in commercial services, as well as significant actors in the area of foreign direct investment. The Philippines was meanwhile deemed to be one of the fastest and most resilient economies in Asia with over 100 million consumers.

Martin Eyjolfsson, ambassador Iceland, Aurelia Frick, foreign minister of Liechtenstein, Johann Schneider-Ammann, federal president of Switzerland, Adrian Cristobal, secretary of trade and industry of the Philippines and Dilek Ayhan, state secretary of trade and industry and fisheries of Norway, pose after signing a free trade agreement between the EFTA states and the Philippines in Bern, Switzerland on Thursday, April 28.

PH 1st quarter economic growth seen at more than 7% Full-year performance to exceed 2015 level

by Ben and

O. de Vera rOnnel W. dOmingO Inquirer.net

The Philippine economy likely grew by more than 7 percent in the first quarter—the fastest expansion in 10 quarters—on the back of robust government spending on public goods and services, according to First Metro Investment Corp. (FMIC).

Also, according to the United Nations economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (Unescap), full-year growth is expected to rebound to 6 percent this year from 5.8 percent in 2015, largely driven by strong domestic demand.

FMIC said in the latest The Market Call, a joint report with the University of Asia and the Pacific, that the gross domestic product “should easily have expanded by

more than 7 percent in the first quarter, despite a possible 5-percent decline in agriculture due to the el Niño drought.”

FMIC said three strong indicators support this. First, Meralco electricity sales growth in January and February hit double digits at 12.3 percent and 11.6 percent, respectively.

Second is a 34-percent surge in manufacturing output in January, and third is an 80-percent jump in capital goods importation, which accounted for 38 percent of total imports in the same month.

“Robust election spending by both the government and the candidates should continue not only through the rest of the first quarter, but up to actual elections in May,” FMIC said. “This should boost employment, consumer and investment spending.”

Based on the Unescap report

on its economic and and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2016, consumer spending would continue to benefit from mild price rises and low jobless rate.

“Strong investment growth is also expected, as private participation in infrastructure increase and FDI (foreign direct investment) inflows strengthen, albeit from a lower base,” the UN agency said. “however, part of the business investment may be held back in the election year as investors wait to see what the new administration’s policies would be,” the Unescap said.

A first-quarter GDP growth exceeding 7 percent would make it the fastest quarterly growth since the 7 percent posted in the third quarter of 2013.

The government is aiming at a growth rate range of 6.8 percent to 7.8 percent this year.

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Honda debuts new cell-type car Hamer Toyota: Upholding a commitment to customer satisfaction production system in Thailand In today’s automobile industry, the influx of new cars is increasing exponentially. In a matter of months, car models are given new and higher trims to cater to the needs of the consuming public.

By this virtue, car dealerships are always reminded that their ultimate mission is to help the consumers find the perfect car that suits their needs and one that will help them cope with the demands of today’s fast-paced lifestyle.

At Hamer Toyota, we intend to do just that. Having been built upon the legacy of excellence that we take BXYXYXpXej Xk ?Xd\i KfpfkX1 I\ef I\p\j# DXkk Dfi\ek\# DXipcfl JXek`X^f# N\eZp from our founder, Lee Hamer—our DX^ef Xe[ Kfep G`alXe dealership takes pride in our commitment to delivering customer satfor eligible inactive and active duty personnel. isfaction each and every time a buyer steps into our Toyota has been a brand that is highly trusted by car lot. almost everyone for many years. Through a steadIn the industry, we have noticed that some prac- fast commitment towards hard work and genuine tices of other car dealers involve sugarcoating their service, Toyota has consistently been on the cutting sales talk by impressing the buyer with glossy show- edge of automobile technology research and deroom car models before injecting a subtle hard sell velopment. Toyota also remains at the forefront of on their pitch. Because of this, most customers are creating intelligent solutions for today’s challenges left disappointed because they were convinced by while keeping an eye on the future of transportatheir sales agents to say “yes” to a pricey car that tion. wasn’t even the vehicle that they were looking for As a key partner of Toyota, Hamer shares the in the first place. same vision: good neighbors make a good comBut here at Hamer Toyota, we will not have any of pany, and vice versa. those underhanded tactics just so we can sell cars.

Both Toyota and Hamer believe in the power of We want to make sure that our customers will drive hard work, perseverance, and diversity. When it off with the prefect car that suits their family and comes to the people that we work with, Hamer belifestyle needs, each and every time – regardless if lieves that diversity is what makes life much more its our cheapest car or our most expensive one. interesting.

Hamer Toyota’s wide vehicle inventory includes Our company’s principles are reflected on our an amazing selection of high-quality new and used genuine approach to our customers as we help Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs that are competitive them find the perfect car and the best deals for enough to suit everyone’s tastes and budget. them. We understand the unique financial capacity Our competent sales and finance teams are more of each customer and we realize that not everyone than happy to help you secure the most suitable can easily afford a car. nevertheless, our friendly financing package or promo for you. Take for ex- Filipino Department of Hamer will be more than ample our Toyota College Graduate Program. If you eager to provide assistance to our kababayans, and received your degree within the last two years, you we will treat them as our kapamilya, kapuso, and could qualify for a $750 rebate on your purchase of kapatid. select new Toyota vehicles.

The Filipino Department of Hamer is composed We also have a Toyota Military Rebate Program of our effective experts namely: Matt Morente, for our men Reno Reyes, MaryLou Santiago, Wency Magno, and women Rico Ayala, and Tony Pijuan. who served As a team that aims to deliver the ultimate custhe flag. tomer satisfaction, the Filipino team of Hamer You served Toyota will make sure to make every kababayan us and ded- feel right at home with their amiable and honest icated your- customer service. selves to Since 1939, Hamer Toyota has been serving the upholding greater Los Angeles and Santa Clarita areas in the our freedom same convenient location. We are committed to deand Ameri- livering customer satisfaction and building lifetime can way of relationships dedicated to addressing our customlife. In ap- ers’ automotive needs. preciation So as our friendly kababayans now for an apfor our men pointment. Call our Filipino Department at 1-855and women 592-7088. in uniform, You can visit our dealership at 11041 Sepulveda Toyota is Boulevard, Mission Hills, CA 91345, conveniently o f f e r i n g located where the 5, 405, 118, and 210 freeways a special meet! $500 rebate 8[m\ik`j`e^ Jlggc\d\ek

HoNdA Motor Co., Ltd. has developed the world’s first mass-production automobile assembly line with a main line that incorporates a flowing cell production system.

Honda has named this original assembly line the ARC Line and introduced it to Honda’s new Prachinburi Plant in Thailand that became operational in March 2016.

The newly-developed ARC Line is a world’s first innovative and unique assembly line that is different from a conventional line production system and was developed by incorporating flowing cell production-style production units in the main line. In production on a conventional line, which has been broadly adopted for automobile production to date, each production associate takes charge of a single process and installs parts to vehicle bodies flowing on a conveyor.

In cell production, on the other hand, one production associate takes charge of a broader range of production processes and installs multiple parts.

In ARC Line production, four production associates get on board an ARC Unit, a unit of a conveyor that carries one vehicle body and a complete set of parts to be installed to the vehicle body, and assemble the vehicle while moving along the production line together with the vehicle. This system reduces any in-

Honda’s new Prachinburi Plant in Thailand that became operational last month.

cidental movements by production associates – such as selecting the proper parts for the specifications of the next vehicle body coming down the line and installing them while walking along with the vehicle body. These are not considered essential assembly movements but are inevitable in conventional production processes. The ARC Line production achieves a significant improvement in production efficiency through the reduction of such process loss.

Moreover, with ARC Line production, each production associate takes charge of a broader range

of production processes, which makes it possible for associates to gain a broader range of production knowledge and skills. This is expected to have a positive effect on the development of proficient production associates who will be capable of providing feedback from the production team to the development team in the future.

Honda will continue its efforts to increase the efficiency of production processes for the purpose of delivering attractive and high-quality products to its customers in a timely manner and at reasonable prices. (Inquirer.net)

Asia Pacific needs to build up on domestic demand, says UN MANILA—As economies strive for sustainable development under the United Nation’s 2030 agenda, growth in the Asia Pacific region should rely less on foreign trade and instead build up on domestic and regional demand, the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) said in a report launched.

In its Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2016, ESCAP said now is the proper time for the region to evaluate its development strategy as the economies of developed nations—its main export market—remains sluggish and growth in China, the engine of economic expansion in the region, moderates.

“With the center of economic gravity continuing to move east-

wards, it is time for the Asia Pacific region to adopt a development model that relies more on domestic and regional demand that, among other things, nurtures inclusiveness, equality and social stability,” the regional development arm of the United Nations noted in the report.

To do this, the Asia Pacific region must use as leverage its expanding middle class and young workforce. Governments, however, must provide an enabling environment for growth through greater investment in human capital, infrastructure, provision of employment opportunities, and efficient and fair taxation system, among others.

“A productivity-driven, wage-led approach would enable countries to increase their aggregate supply and their aggregate demand,

thereby enhancing the well-being of their societies,” ESCAP said.

The region’s economy is expected to grow 4.8 percent to five percent in 2016 and 2017, respectively, already considering marco economic risks that include the moderation of the Chinese economy, slow recovery in the global economy, weak consumption and investment trends in the region, and an “ambiguous path” of interest rate increase by the US. To boost productivity in the region, ESCAP said several countries in the region should not be too keen on “de-industrializing too early in their development.”

The study said agriculturebased economies are shifting to a service-based economy before maximizing the wealth of the land.

(Czeriza Valencia/Philstar.com)

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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.

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If you’re thirsty and you’re looking for that quick coffee 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 Ray-Ban 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 15-mile 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 (800) 617-4516 to set up your appointment.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 30-mAy 3, 2016 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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