081217 - La Weekend Edition

August 12-15, 2017 Volume 27 - No. 65 • 4 Sections – 32 Pages

PH supports US presence in South China Sea

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

THE Philippine government finds nothing “objectionable” with the United States’ recent “freedom of navigation operation” near China’s artificial island built in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), a Palace official said on Fri-

day, August 11.

In a press briefing, Philippine Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the U.S. Navy destroyer’s “presumed innocent passage” near the disputed Mischief or Panganiban Reef is not a cause for concern.

Quoting Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana,

Abella said that “the Philippines has no objection regarding the presumed innocent passage” of USS John S. McCain in the reef located at the Spratly Islands— also referred to as Kalayaan Islands.

“And that there is of course the freedom of navigation. In other words, from our side — from our

side we find no objection,” Abella added.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also backed the U.S. operation.

“Well, freedom of navigation is guaranteed and anyone can do it.

So, we just need to monitor. And as long as it is within the bounds

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MORE RECLAMATION. A satellite photo from the Center for Strategic and International StudiesAsian Maritime Transparency Initiative (CSIS-AMTI) of Tree Island in the Paracels shows China has undertaken additional reclamation in the South China Sea. China has dredged a new harbor and added about 25 acres of additional land at Tree Island, even after it announced in 2015 that all reclamation had ended.

Philstar.com photo

Duterte calls for evidence to prove son is involved in corruption

USA

DATELINE Pres. Trump warns N. Korea: US military is ‘locked and loaded’ FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Vows to resign if accusations true

Secretaries Mattis, Tillerson clarify comments, emphasize importance of diplomacy

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

AS a way to make a point to the Democratic People’s Republic Of Korea (DPRK), President Donald Trump warned North Korea that if the country continues provoking the United States, it will not get away with it.

On Friday, August 11, the president again cautioned North Korean leaders that the U.S. military is “locked and loaded,” criticizing Pyongyang for accusing him of “driving” the

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AAPI group urges use of hate crime tracker for community

Filipino postal worker killed 18 years ago remembered

EIGHTEEN years ago, Filipino postal worker Joseph Ileto was halfway through his route when he became a victim of a hate-motivated attack by a white supremacist. The attacker had just opened fire at a Jewish community center outside of Los Angeles where five people were severely wounded.

Ileto, who was 39 at the time, was killed.

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A VISIT FROM THE PRESIDENT. President Rodrigo Duterte interacts with young cancer patients during the Southern Philippine Medical Center (SPMC) Children’s Cancer Institute (CCI) Thanksgiving and Open House at the SPMC in Davao City on Thursday, Aug. 10.

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, August 11, challenged those who accuse his son, Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, of committing corrupt practices to present him with evidence.

The president vowed that he’ll step down if anyone can show him an affidavit proving his son is involved in smuggling transactions.

“If my son was really into it, all you have to do is to produce the paper because there are two ways of evidence, oral and documentary,” Duterte said in a speech during the Southern Philippines Medical Center anniversary in Davao City.

“Just give me an affidavit and I will step down

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Malacañang photo by Albert Alcain

Pentagon: ‘US may expand role in Marawi’ PH military confident to end Marawi conflict without US airstrikes maintained that the AFP does not need additional troops from other countries to defeat the Islamic THE Armed Forces of the Phil- State (IS)-linked Maute group. “[The] AFP is capable, we have ippines (AFP) is confident that Filipino troopers are capable of enough ammunition and troops. liberating Marawi City from local Kayang kaya po ng tropa natin to terrorists even without the air- (Our own troops can) finish the strikes reportedly offered by the mission,” Brawner told reporters.

He stressed that foreign miliUnited States.

Joint Task Force Marawi Dep- taries in Marawi can only prouty Commander Lt. Col. Romeo vide technical, educational, and Brawner on Wednesday, August 9, training support, as stated in the

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

Constitution.

He also noted that the Mutual Defense treaty between Manila and Washington only allows U.S. soldiers to help Philippine forces in combat operations on cases of external aggression.

“In the mutual defense treaty, U.S. comes to our aid if there is an external aggression. In the case of Marawi, hindi ito (this is not an) external aggression. In fact, we

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Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesperson for the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said eight soldiers have been killed since Aug. 2 as the final phase of military operations to flush out Maute militants began.

Philstar.com photo

Impeachment complaint filed vs Bautista JV Ejercito acquitted over anomalous firearms deal

by PERSEUS

ECHEMINADA Philstar.com

by AJPRESS

MANILA — Marcos loyalist lawyer Oliver Lozano has filed an impeachment complaint against Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista for alleged culpable violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust while serving in his previous post as head of the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) and as current Comelec chief.

However, instead of filing with the secretary general of the House of Representatives, Lozano filed the complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman, which he claimed to have initial jurisdiction over the complaint.

Lozano said that the impeachment complaints he previously filed at the House were returned to him because no congressman endorsed them.

“It’s up to the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate and refer the impeachment case to the House

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Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista holds a press conference at the poll body’s main office in Intramuros, Manila on Monday, Aug. 7.

Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban

MANILA — The anti-graft court Sandiganbayan has acquitted Philippine Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito of technical malversation in connection with the alleged anomalous purchase of P2.1 million-worth of firearms during his term as the mayor of San Juan City in 2008.

In its decision promulgated on Thursday, August 10, the court’s Sixth Division granted the demurrer of evidence — a motion Sen. JV Ejercito to dismiss a case for lack of evi- cal malversation charges against dence — submitted by Ejercito Ejercito, accusing him and other and his several co-accused. officials of using the city’s caLast year, the Office of the Om- lamity funds to purchase P2.1 budsman filed graft and techni- million worth of firearms for the

Inquirer.net photo

local police in 2008.

The court, however, ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the suspects’ guilt beyond rea-

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A august 12-15, 2017 • La WEEKEND asIaN JOuRNaL

PH supports US presence...

PAGE A1 t set forth by international law, then it is all right,” AFP spokesperson Brig. General Restituto Padilla said during the same conference.

The Philippine officials’ statements came in contrast with China’s position which described the U.S.’ move as a “provocation” that may lead to “unexpected in-

cident at sea or in the air.”

Citing U.S. officials speaking on the condition of anonymity, Reuters previously reported that the U.S. destroyer carried out its third “freedom of navigation of navigation” under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.

The sea craft reportedly sailed within the 12 nautical miles of

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

From the Front Page China’s artificial island built in Mischief Reef.

In a statement, the Chinese government expressed “strong dissatisfaction” with the operation, claiming that it violated the international law and harmed the country’s sovereignty and security.

“China is resolutely opposed to this kind of show of force and pushing of regional militarization by the U.S. that may easily cause an unexpected incident at sea or in the air,” the government said in a statement, adding that it “will bring up the issue with the U.S. side.”

The Pentagon, for its part, refused to provide any details regarding the reported operation in the disputed waters. It assured, however, that all of its operations are conducted in accordance with international law.

“All operations are conducted in accordance with international law and demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows,” Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Chris Logan told Agence France-Presse.

Days earlier, the U.S., in a joint statement with Australia and Japan, denounced China’s militarization and island building in the South China Sea. The three countries “expressed serious concerns over maritime disputes” in the area, they said on Monday, August 7.

They also urged all South China Sea claimants “to refrain from land reclamation, construction of outposts, militarization of disputed features, and undertaking unilateral actions that cause permanent physical change to the marine environment in areas pending delimitation.”

China, under its so-called nine dash line, has asserted its power over nearly the entire South China Sea. Beijing’s massive claim has been partly disputed by its neighboring countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is currently working with China on a Code of Conduct (COC) in the contested waters, aiming to prevent the escalation of maritime conflicts in the area. n

Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte

Inquirer.net photo

Duterte calls for evidence...

PAGE A1 t

as President of this Republic, and that is my commitment to you now.

That is my word,” he added.

The president also reiterated his promise to never tolerate corruption in his administration.

“I made a solemn promise, a vow to the nation and to the Filipino people, that there will never be a time that I will condone graft,”

Duterte said.

Earlier, Customs broker Mark Taguba mentioned Paolo Duterte’s name during a House of Representatives inquiry on Monday, August 7 into the alleged bribery activities within the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Congress is currently investigating the alleged involvement of BOC officials in the 600-kilogram shipment of shabu worth P6.4 billion (U.S.$126 million) that slipped through the agency’s express lane last May. During the inquiry, Taguba said he was given P10,000 per container as a bribe to certain a “Tita Nanie,” who told him that the money would go to a “Davao group” backed by the city’s vice mayor.

The broker, however, admitted that he could not prove the allegation as his remarks against the vice mayor were merely based on hearsay.

In response, the president’s son denied the allegations, pointing out that Taguba himself admitted that they were all based on rumors.

“Taguba admitted that his testimony against me was based entirely on rumors. Why would we entertain or believe a hearsay?

One does not dignify lies with a response,” the Davao City vice mayor said.

In a business forum on Wednesday, August 9, Duterte first said he is willing to resign if the allegations against his son were proven.

“Corruption was really one I do not like. Now, even my son is being dragged in the Customs controversy,” the president said. “I told you before and I’m telling you now again, if any of my children [are] involved in corruption, I will immediately resign. You have my word.” n

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Pres. Trump warns N. Korea...

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Korean peninsula to the “brink of nuclear war.

In a tweet sent out on Friday, the president said, “Military solutions are now fully in place, locked and loaded, should North Korea act unwisely. Hopefully Kim Jong-un will find another path!”

Earlier this week during a photo op at his Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey on Tuesday, August 8, the president escalated the long-standing hostility between the two nations when he declared, “North Korea best not make any more threats to the United States.”

He added: “They will be met with fire and fury like the world has never seen... he has been very threatening beyond a normal state. They will be met with fire, fury and frankly power the likes of which this world has never seen before.”

Trump’s jarring statements are likely a response to recent findings from U.S. intelligence that concluded that North Korea has produced a nuclear warhead that can fit on long-range missiles. Not long after Trump’s comments, Pyongyang warned the international community that it will strike “an enveloping fire” around Guam, where the U.S. holds a crucial Air Force base.

Despite widespread criticism over his “careless” statements — which he admitted he “improvised” on the spot — Trump has not backed down on his aggressive tone to North Korean leaders.

Responding to all the mayhem surrounding this matter, Guam’s homeland security officials issued a fact sheet of tips for residents should a missile threat come into fruition.

It states: “Do not look at the flash or fireball — it can blind you. Lie flat on the ground and

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cover your head. If the explosion is some distance away, it could take 30 seconds or more for the blast wave to hit.”

Previously, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho said at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum in Manila that North Korea has no intention to attack other countries “except the U.S.,” as the Asian Journal previously reported.

Earlier this week, the United Nations Security Council unanimously passed a resolution that imposed strict new sanctions, which will cut North Korea’s annual export revenue of $3 billion by more than a third.

Just a day after Trump’s comments, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson clarified the president’s statements, arguing that North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un’s hostile language prompted Trump’s words.

“North Korea’s rhetoric has just ratcheted up louder and louder and more threatening. So I think the President - what the President is doing is sending a strong message to North Korea in language that Kim Jongun can understand because he doesn’t seem to understand diplomatic language,” Tillerson told reporters.

Tillerson, who has emphasized the importance of diplomacy when dealing with North Korea, added, “I think the President just wanted to be clear to the North Korean regime on the U.S.’s unquestionable ability to defend itself, will defend itself and its allies, and I think it was important that he deliver the message to avoid miscalculation on their part.”

Mirroring Tillerson’s sentiments, Defense Secretary Gen. James Mattis also issued an ultimatum to North Korea to “cease any consideration of actions that

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

would lead to the end of its regime and destruction of its people.”

In the past, Mattis has routinely said that he prefers to resolve tensions with North Korea through diplomacy, emphasizing that military action could lead to disastrous consequences.

“Kim Jong Un should take heed of the United Nations Security Council’s unified voice, and statements from governments the world over, who agree the DPRK poses a threat to global security and stability,” Mattis said in a statement.

Washington lawmakers outside of Trump’s cabinet blasted the president for his comments which may incite further nuclear action from North Korea.

Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), a top ranking Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, denounced the president’s aggressive comments, saying that, more than ever, the Trump administration must demonstrate “steady leadership” in crisis situations.

“The president’s ‘fire and fury’ ad-lib was not helpful. Defusing the North Korean threat will take smart, steady leadership and stronger diplomatic ties with our key allies,” Reed said in a statement, adding that the U.S. can utilize diplomatic, financial or other means of negotiating rather than just resorting to military options.

For years, North Korea has been constructing and testing missiles, putting the international community on edge. Last month, it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that is reportedly capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, U.S., experts said.

Officials also said that it is believed that North Korea also already possesses medium-range missiles that could deliver a nuclear warhead to South Korea and Japan. (Klarize Medenilla/AJ Press)

JV Ejercito acquitted over anomalous...

sonable doubt.

It said all the documents presented by the prosecution “do not show that the payment for the procurement was sourced from the 2008 Calamity Fund of San Juan City.”

“Let it be stressed that this verdict of acquittal is based on the failure of the prosecution to present proof beyond reasonable doubt that the accused indeed

used the 2008 calamity fund of San Juan City in the procurement and payment of the subject firearms,” the court’s decision read.

Acquitted with Ejercito were former Vice Mayors Leonardo Celles and Francisco Zamora; and former Councilors Rolando Bernardo, Andoni Miguel Carballo, Vincent Rainer Pacheco, Angelino Mendoza, Ramon Nakpil, Grace Pardines, Francis Keith

Peralta, Dante Santiago, Domingo Sese, Edgardo Soriano, Jannah Ejercito-Surla, and Joseph Christopher Torralba.

The court also lifted the hold departure order issued against them.

In his separate concurring opinion, Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Karl Miranda added that even if the prosecution was able to prove that the local calamity funds were used to pro-

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 12-15, 2017

A3

SULONG PILIPINAS 2017. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte shares the stage with (from left) National Economic and Development Authority Director General Ernesto Pernia, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, former President and incumbent Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Arroyo, Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III during the Philippine Development Forum: Sulong Pilipinas 2017 at the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City on Wednesday, Aug. 9.

Malacañang photo by Ace Morandante

Pentagon: ‘US may expand role...

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call them local terror group,” Brawner explained.

He further emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Philippine government to protect its territory and people.

Earlier this week, reports from NBC news says that Pentagon is considering a plan that allows the U.S. military to conduct airstrikes on IS militants in the Philippines as part of collective self-defense, citing two U.S. officials as its source.

Another report from Agence France-Presse quoting a U.S. defense official says discussions are “pretty advanced” and would see the U.S. provide increased surveillance drone capabilities

and training for local forces.

Pentagon spokesperson Lt. Col. Christopher B. Logan clarified that Washington “respect[s] the sovereignty of the Philippines, and [is] not pursuing unilateral action in the Philippines.”

In separate statements, both Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año said that they have not yet received any formal notice about the reported offer.

Both officials also expressed appreciation over Washington’s desire to help Manila in ending the ongoing fight against terrorists in the southern Philippines.

“We appreciate Pentagon’s

reported desire to help the Philippines in the fight against Daesh-inspired Maute group because terrorism is a global menace that the community of nations must unite to fight against,” Lorenzana said.

The Defense secretary, however, stressed that such proposition “has to undergo a process” and “a covenant must be had between the commanders in chief of both nations.”

Nearly 700 people have been killed in the ongoing operations to liberate the city. According to the official count, 528 militants and 122 government troopers were killed since the attack on May 23, while civilian casualties remained at 45. ■

cure firearms, there was still no commission of technical malversation.

“Purchase of firearms as a means to prevent criminal and terrorist activities is still considered the government’s disaster preparedness and pre-disaster activities,” Miranda explained.

Ejercito earlier justified that the purchase of high-powered firearms was part of the local government’s deterrent against “the spike of criminal incidents within the metropolis such as robbery-holdup, kidnap for ran-

som, and gun for hire.”

Following the dismissal of his technical malversation case, Ejercito, in a statement on Friday, August 11, thanked the Sandiganbayan justices for clearing his name.

“All throughout this twoyear process, I have been firm on two things: One, that I am innocent of the charges filed against me, and; two, that I have faith in the fairness of our judicial system. These beliefs have just been reaffirmed by the Sandiganbayan Sixth Di-

vision decision acquitting me from technical malversation,” the senator remarked.

He went on to say, “This is truly a good day. I thank the Lord, I thank the good justices of the Sandiganbayan for remaining true to their duty of upholding justice and fairness. At the moment, I am just grateful that my name has been cleared and redeemed from charges.”

The graft case against the senator was already dismissed by the Sandiganbayan with finality in February of this year. ■

A august 12-15, 2017 • La WEEKEND asIaN JOuRNaL

Dateline USa

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15th annual Historic Filipinotown Festival brings summer fun for the entire family

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

Hundreds of Angelenos gathered at the silver Lake Medical Center grounds last weekend for a summer celebration of Historic Filipinotown.

Historic Filipinotown — colloquially known as HiFi — celebrated its 15th traditional fiesta on saturday, August 5 where attendees enjoyed several activities throughout the day.

This fiesta’s theme was “A Taste of the Visayan region� and it brought together a wide range of entertainment and food options. Various FilipinoAmerican organizations and service groups held a parade that showed off Pinoy pride in its truest form.

The event was emceed by nBC4 meteorologist shanna Mendiola and broadcast journalist Thelma Aranda-sugay and featured a wide range of notable Fil-Ams including singers Jessica reynoso, Tanya Varona and Ciamara Morales.

The annual festival showcased the rich cultural artistry of the community, including

The Barkada Band, which comprises of students from Cal Poly Pomona’s Barkada Club.

The fantastic LA eagle rockers dance group also performed along with the Johannes dance troupe which performed traditional Filipino dances.

Variety entertainment group Cecile and Mighty show also wowed attendees with a combination magic, acrobatic and song performance.

The event organizers also held a Bayanihan Award ceremony that featured notable FilipinoAmerican professionals in the Organizers of the Historic Filipinotown Festival receive certificates from LA County Supervisor Fil-Am Alex De Ocampo, candidate for the California State Assembly’s 51st District, speaks to attendees during the festival’s program. city, including Thelma Andrada- Hilda Solis and LA Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell. sugay and makeup artist Mary Ann Muah.

Mariano Alvarez, counsel attorney for the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA), was awarded as the Outstanding Community Member by LA Councilmember of district 13 Mitch O’Farrell and County supervisor Hilda solis for his contributions to the community.

The Historic Filipinotown Festival was created for the community in 2002 by Historic Filipinotown neighborhood Council NBC4 meteorologist Shanna Mendiola served as the emcee for the festival.

cultural growth. since then, Historic Filipinotown has been a center for the Filipino-American community in LA, boasting some of the city’s finest Filipino cuisine establishments and numerous community resource centers, like the Pilipino Workers Center on Glendale Blvd. ensenio Garcia and Leonor Garcia have lived in Historic Filipinotown for 15 years after immigrating from Iloilo in 2002.

They consider themselves “fully assimilated� in American culture, but were excited to learn that the theme of this year’s festival involved their home region. “We’re having a lot of fun! It’s nice the city put this [event] for us,� ensenio, 47, told the Asian Journal, his wife agreeing.

The Garcias spoke high praises of the Fil-An community in Los Angeles and are “forever thankful� to the organizations here that made them feel welcome. “HiFi is our home and after so much fear leading up to our big move here, we were consoled by the community here and how AJPress photos by Ding Carreon and Andy Tecson welcomed we felt,� Leonor, a re-

Cultural dresses modeled by Fil-Ams

President Cecilia ramos and Vice President Leo Pandac. ramos and Pandac wanted a way to commemorate the official designation of the neighborhood.

Then LA City Councilmember of the 13th district and now Mayor eric Garcetti envisioned Historic Filipinotown as a neighborhood that celebrated the first Filipino migrants who resided in this area of district 13 in the early 1900s and who were major A reenactment of the blood compact made by Bohol chieftain Sikatuna and Spanish explorer contributors to the state’s agriMiguel Lopez de Legazpi.

AAPI group urges use of hate crime tracker...

PAGE A1 t According to the most recent 2015 Hate Crimes report released last fall by the Los Angeles Human relations Commission, hate crimes have increased 24 percent, after having seen a seven-year downward trend. Included in the increases were hate incidents towards Asian Americans, which tripled and prompted the launching for the first-ever tracker on the community.

Around the time of Trump’s presidential inauguration, non-

profit organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice launched stand Against Hatred, a site dedicated to tracking anti-Asian hate attacks.

According to Jessica Jinn, communications manager at Advancing Justice - LA, over 180 responses have been submitted, with new ones being added almost daily. “As we watched all the reporting [on hate crimes], we felt that the Asian community was being left out,� said Advancing Justice

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Among the many stories is that of dyne suh, an Asian American uCLA student who had her Airbnb reservation canceled. A screenshot message from the Airbnb host which went public read, â&#x20AC;&#x153;One word says it all. Asian.â&#x20AC;?

The documentation of antiAsian hate crimes isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t new and is something AAJC has been watching for sometime going as far back to the 1980s. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There was a

surge in anti-Asian hate attacks in the 1980s and 1990s, a lot of which were tied to other global phenomenon and news events,â&#x20AC;? said Wang.

In the 1980s, a lot of backlash was targeted on the Japanese community as a response to the Japanese auto industry. In the 1990s, hate activities were especially on the rise in places like Los Angeles, which included the killing of Ileto.

According to Wang, most of these attacks were, and continue to be tied to what is happening on the global front. The same seems to be the case now during

tired dental assistant, said with a big smile.

Trevor King and his Filipina mom, Anna Guira, moved to the city a couple years ago from Orange County and have declared Historic Filipinotown as one of their favorite areas in the city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We grew up in a majoritywhite neighborhood and I never really was exposed to Filipino culture,â&#x20AC;? King, a recent high school graduate, told the Asian Journal while munching on some lumpia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;LA, and especially Historic Filipinotown, really exposed me to the culture and it was the first time I saw

this abundance of Filipinos, as well as so many other cultures.

I always wanted to get in touch with my momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture and I feel like Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m getting that experience.â&#x20AC;?

Guira, who moved to the u.s. in the 1980s from Tarlac, also expressed happiness for â&#x20AC;&#x153;finallyâ&#x20AC;? moving to a city with a high concentration of Filipinos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;LA is known for diversity, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re so happy that we live so close to a place that does things like this festival that remind us to be proud of our culture. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m happy my son gets to see that,â&#x20AC;?

Guira said, beaming. n

the current global and political climate where a lot of tension has been building up with Asia and Muslim countries, specifically with China and most recently, north Korea. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We saw in the data that there was a spike in anti-Muslim and anti-Chinese attacks specifically in 2015 and 2016,â&#x20AC;? shared Wang. she added that many of the attacks towards Muslims, which many Asians identify as, were linked to the recent Paris and san Bernardino attacks.

While there are no links specifically explaining attacks towards Chinese, Wang said the organiza-

tion believes that many have to do with anti-China rhetoric and comments that have been brought up during the recent presidential campaign and through Trumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inauguration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of submissions that also been about being told to go back to China even if they werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Chinese,â&#x20AC;? said Jinn.

Throughout Trumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presidential campaign and after his election, China has many times been labeled as an economic threat, explained Wang. In a 2015 interview with Good Morning America, Trump labeled China as

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Impeachment complaint...

PAGE A1 t of Representatives,” Lozano told The Star.

Lozano said he filed the complaint after Bautista’s wife Patricia recently came out and claimed that the Comelec chief was involved in alleged irregularities when he was then PCGG chief and in his current position as poll body head.

He said the grounds for impeachment he filed against Bautista are similar to the complaints filed against the late former chief justice Renato Corona involving huge sums of money that were not declared in his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net worth (SALN).

He said there is a striking similarity with the case of Corona and the allegations hurled against Bautista by his wife involving multiple banks accounts.

Lozano also called on Bautista to resign before the ombudsman or other government agencies like the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) that is now conducting its own probe, recommend the filing of charges against him.

“For delicadeza I am urging chairman Bautista to resign now,” he said.

Bautista had filed grave coercion, qualified theft, robbery and extortion charges before the Taguig City Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday against his wife Patricia, who had earlier accused him of having ill-gotten wealth close to P1 billion.

He challenged his wife to also go to court, saying, “I don’t think it is fair to drag private people into this whole thing.”

Bautista said that 10 months ago, Patricia ransacked his locked cabinets and stole bankbooks, gift certificates, financial statements and other documents that were used to fabricate documents against him.

Among the pieces of evidence Patricia exposed were Bautista’s alleged 35 passbooks from Luzon Development Bank totaling P329.2 million, an RCBC dollar account with $12,778 (P640,000), an RCBC peso account with P257,931 in cash; an HSBC account with HK$948,358 (P6.1 million) in deposits, and one condo unit each in Bonifacio Global City’s High Street in Taguig City, and another one located abroad – in San Francisco, California.

The Comelec chief also has investments abroad, among them Bauman Enterprises Ltd in British Virgin Islands in September 2010, a trustee company that Bautista set up with the Bank of Singapore.

Another is Mantova International Ltd. that was established in Brunei in April 2011 while the last is Mega Achieve Inc. established in Anguilla, a British overseas territory in the Caribbean in July 2014.

Patricia claimed that there were ghost employees at the PCGG identified as Howie Vitas and Joey Perry, when Bautista was chairman.

She also alleged that her husband received commissions from a law firm for supposedly recommending clients, including two sequestered companies of the PCGG. Bautista denied that Vitas and Perry were ghost employees, saying they were hired as consultants of the commission. He also claimed that there was nothing illegal with accepting fees from the law firm.

PCGG probe Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II yesterday said that aside from the NBI, the PCGG is also conducting a separate probe into possible violations committed by Bautista when he was still the head of the good government commission.

Aguirre said he spoke with PCGG acting chairman Reynaldo Munsayac and commissioners Rey Bulay and John Agbayani, who told him that they are also checking if Bautista had engaged

in illegal activities when he was the commission chairman from Sept.

13, 2010 until April 27, 2015.

He explained that the PCGG is also authorized to conduct its own probe.

The PCGG also reportedly handed over documents related to issues on the possible violation of anti-graft, possible referral of cases, possible ghost employees and travels not in accordance with administrative procedure that could be used in the NBI’s investigation.

The NBI is still studying these documents.

“I also directed the NBI to conduct an investigation into possible allegations related to the Anti-Money Laundering Act. You can recall the DOJ has no memorandum of agreement with the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

It is only the NBI who could request data and information from AMLC that could be used for possible indictment for violation of the AMLA,” said Aguirre.

He said that they course their request to AMLC through the NBI. Aguirre said that they have not asked Bautista if he is willing to issue a waiver to allow the NBI to look into his bank accounts to speed up the investigation process.

But if Bautista would voluntarily allow the NBI, “well and good. We would no longer have a hard time” looking into his bank records, Aguirre added.

The DOJ chief said that they are still in the initial stages of their investigation but believe that both the NBI and the PCGG are well aware that their findings could be used in a possible impeachment case that could be filed against Bautista.

Lawyer Romulo Macalintal, lead counsel for Vice President Leni Robredo, claimed yesterday that some people are using the personal and family feud between Bautista and estranged wife Patricia to cast doubt on the credibility of the 2016 national elections.

He said there is no legal nor factual basis to immediately jump to the conclusion that the feud between the Bautistas could cast doubt on the credibility and integrity of the 2016 national and local elections.

Macalintal said that while Patricia presented before the media alleged evidence of hidden or ill-gotten wealth of Bautista, there was no mention of any act committed by the latter that had compromised the results of the elections.

Patricia did not mention any alleged “commission” or “referral fees” received by Bautista for purposes of cheating or rigging the elections in favor of any candidate.

“There is a big difference between commissions received to favor a bidder and commissions received to cheat the elections,” he added.

The automated election system (AES) used in the 2016 elections, Macalintal said, was the same system used in the 2010 and 2013 elections wherein all election protests filed were dismissed for failure to prove any discrepancy between the results of the election generated by the PCOS machines and the physical count of ballots.

“The same is true in the case of the 2016 elections, wherein almost all the election protests involving local candidates did not show any sign of irregularity or tampering of the results,” Macalintal said.

“In a word, Bautista alone, or even the entire officials of the Comelec, cannot rig or manipulate the AES to favor a particular candidate or political party,” he added.

Meanwhile, the League of Election Officers of the Nation (LEON) yesterday came up with a manifesto of support for Bautista.

The poll officials felt that the attack is not only against Bautista but on the entire Comelec, “pinpointing to what we delivered during the May 2016 elections is tainted.” n

AAPI group urges use of hate crime tracker...

PAGE A4 t

an economic enemy, saying, “Because it’s [China] and economic enemy, because they have taken advantage of us like nobody in history. They have; it’s the greatest theft in the history of the world what they’ve done to the United States. They’ve taken our jobs.”

Again in a campaign rally in May 2016, Trump made comments on trade policies and said, “We can’t continue to allow China to rape our country and that’s what they’re doing. It’s the greatest theft in the history of the world.”

Still, anti-Asian hate incidents struggle to be publicized with many going unreported which perpetuates the idea that Asians are not subject to attacks, said Wang. “Many, especially older generations, don’t want to draw attention,” explained Wang. This was the case for Ileto’s family, who continues to be vocal about the issue, even though they were

initially scared.

Currently, Advancing Justice - LA is working on making reporting easier for those of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. They’ve also come out with a California specific brochure on identifying and reporting hate incidents in the Los Angeles County, and are available in Tagalog, Korean, Chinese, and English. On the front of each one reads, “An attack against one, is an attack against all.”

While hate crimes have been on the rise, the group remains optimistic. “Los Angeles for example, is very ethnically and religiously diverse,” said Wang.

This diversity, she hopes, will be a benefit in the future. Still, the need for awareness on Asian American hate crimes remains the organization’s key focus.

“If we don’t track it [the crimes], we’re not sure anyone else will pay attention to it,” added Jinn.

(Rae Ann Varona / AJPRess)

Dateline USa

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUgUSt 12-15, 2017

A

Covered California announces proposed rates for 2018 COVERED California announced its proposed rates for 2018 earlier this month and once again urged consumers to explore their options to find the best deal among companies competing in its individual marketplace.

“Covered California’s competitive market means consumers have the power to shop and find the best value,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee. “We know our consumers often look for the best deal and thus end up paying less than the initial rates suggest.”

Despite failed political efforts to repeal and replace the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in the nation’s capital, Covered California announced that all 11 of its participating health insurance companies will be returning next year.

While premiums will increase an average 12.5 percent statewide, consumers can reduce that amount to less than a 3.3 percent increase, if they shop for the best value and switch to the lowestpriced plan in the same metal tier.

In addition to shopping, most of the 1.4 million consumers enrolled through Covered California will not have to pay the entire rate change because the amount of financial help they receive from the federal government will also increase, Lee said. The federal subsidy is tied to the price of the second-lowest-cost Silver plan and as rates rise or fall, so does the subsidy, which will help offset a signifi-

cant portion of the rate changes for consumers.

The rate change varies by health plan and region, with some plans having decreases in their premiums and others having increases, which makes shopping more important than ever.

The Affordable Care Act has worked in California — as evidenced by the uninsured rate in California falling to 7.1 percent in 2016, down from 17 percent in 2013 — and will continue to work in 2018.

“Covered California remains robust and strong, and we are pleased to welcome back all 11 plans to compete in regions across the state,” Lee said. “Consumers who need affordable health insurance will continue to have good choices in Covered California next year.”

In 2018, 82 percent of Covered California consumers will be able to choose from three or more health insurance companies. In addition, 88 percent of hospitals in California will be available through at least one Covered California health insurance company in 2018.

Covered California has served more than 3 million consumers since it began offering coverage in 2014, introducing a new generation to health care and providing a critical safety net for those who need help paying for their coverage.

Covered California requires all 11 health plans offer identical patient-centered benefit designs, maximizing their impact on con-

sumers and providers’ practices while minimizing the confusion for consumers and providers that all too often results in there being a range of different copays or coverage terms. These priorities align benefit design with the goal of supporting patients in getting the right care at the right time.

For more information, consumers should visit CoveredCA.com, where they can enroll online dur-

ing the special-enrollment period or get information about obtaining free, confidential in-person assistance in a variety of languages. They can find a certified enroller at a storefront in their area or have a certified enroller contact them through the “Help on Demand” feature. Consumers can also enroll over the phone by calling Covered California at (800) 300-1506. n

Dateline USa

A august 12-15, 2017 • La WEEKEND asIaN JOuRNaL

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Pacquiao wishes Marquez, Bradley well in retirement

by Dino

Maragay Philstar.com

Manny Pacquiao praised his former opponents Juan Manuel Marquez and Timothy Bradley, both of whom recently announced their retirement from boxing.

In a text message to Philstar. com relayed by his media officer aquiles Zonio, Pacquiao hailed Marquez and Bradley as “great fighters.”

“I wish both of them well.

They were great fighters during their prime,” said the fighting senator, who engaged Marquez and Bradley in multiple bouts.

Marquez, Pacquiao’s biggest rival, figured in an epic fourfight saga with the Filipino icon, which culminated with the Mexican brutally knocking out his rival in their fourth and last meeting in 2012.

The 43-year-old pride of Mexico City cited injuries incurred while training for a planned return earlier this year as the reason for calling it quits.

On the other hand, Bradley, 33, fought Pacquiao thrice — losing two times — and hasn’t seen action since his final duel

LOVE GALA 2017. Taguig City-Pateros 2nd District Representative Pia Cayetano (3rd from left), Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano (3rd from right), UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific Pia Wurtzbach, Department of Health National Capital Region Assistant Director Dr. Corazon Flores (2nd from left), UNAIDS Philippines Country Director Peter Mosende (left) and Executive Director, Love Yourself Inc. and member of Love Gala Secretariat Ronivin Pagtakhan (right), pose for a souvenir group photo at the HIV testing and Unveiling of Love Gala 2017 at SM Aura Premier in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon Juan Manuel Marquez poses with his retirement cake, which features a boxing ring with figures of him and Pacquiao, the latter laying flat, in a depiction of their epic fourth fight.

Photo uploaded by Boxinghype on its Instagram account

with the Filipino last year.

He recently told a US radio show that he decided to hang up his gloves after personally seeing a bloody Pacquiao struggle against Jeff Horn in australia last month.

Pacquiao, for his part, is just happy to know Marquez and

Bradley are riding off into the sunset in good health.

“May God bless both of them and their families,” Pacquiao said.

Marquez and Bradley leave the sport with respective records of 56-7-1 (with 40 KOs) and 33-2 (with 13 KOs). n

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PH Embassy celebrates ASEAN@50, shares Filipino culture with young global leaders WaSHInGTOn, D.C. – around 40 vibrant and driven youth participating in the 2017 International young Leaders assembly (IyLa) were treated to a night of knowledge sharing, cultural exchanges, youth empowerment, and fun-filled activities at a reception held at the Philippine Embassy on Wednesday, august 9.

The reception, co-hosted by the Embassy and the US-Philippines Society, was organized in honor of the IyLa delegates on the occasion of the 50thanniversary of the establishment of the association of Southeast asian nations (aSEan).

The Embassy prepared five stations for the delegates to learn from and enjoy prior to the formal program. at the Games station, delegates had the chance to try several digital games developed

by Filipinos and/or in the Philippines. The Filipino Superheroes station introduced indigenous Filipino superheroes to the delegates, with Embassy resident artist Paolo Galang doing a live drawing of two lucky delegates as Filipino superhero Darna.

The Filipino Fashion station showcased a display of Cordillera, Muslim, Rural (Barong Tagalogs), and formal attire while the Social Media station made use of a Philippine village scene backdrop, traditional Filipino headwear, and locally produced fans for delegates to use in taking their group photos and selfies.

The aSEan station allowed the delegates to learn more about aSEan and its peoples through brochures and other informative materials provided by the aSEan-national Organizing Council (Philippines), and the Indonesian, Lao and Thai Embassies in Washington, D.C. Embassy Chargé d’affaires ad interim Minister Patrick a. Chuasoto, highlighted in his remarks the role of young people in making an impact in the aSEan region. “as I stated earlier, just yesterday, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of aSEan, and our region is hitting its prime – we have the most dynamic countries located in the most dynamic sub-region, in the most dynamic continent on this planet,” Minister Chuasoto said in his welcome remarks.

“We realized that the region should think of itself as a whole rather than separate, individual economies especially when dealing with an increasingly interdependent world. I highlight this because it is where I believe young people like you can make a difference in our region; regardless of whether you are from aSEan or not,” he further emphasized.

Vice Governor of Philippine province of Masbate Kaye Revil and Global Peace youth Philippines President Leonard Faustino also delivered brief remarks, both sharing how their IyLa experience helped them give back

to their respective communities and empower others.

Special Trade Representative Raymond albert Batac talked about the aSEan Economic Community (aEC), while USPhilippines Society President ambassador John Maisto talked about US-aSEan partnership and the Philippine Chairmanship of aSEan 2017.

“Today, aSEan has succeeded in so many ways in fulfilling the vision of its founders... the region has attracted investment and trade from around the globe. america’s economic ties with aSEan are substantial and growing. Trade supports over 500,000 U.S. jobs,” said ambassador Maisto.

“It is entirely fitting that the Philippines is chairing aSEan@50. Filipino leaders played an instrumental founding role, and the country is both a natural leader within the bloc and a proven link internationally. For the United States, there is no question the Philippines can and should be a logical platform of americans to do business in aSEan, and for the U.S. to project a stabilizing and welcome strategic presence in that part of the asia-Pacific region,” he added. at the closing of the program, IyLa Chairman John Dickson presented a plaque of appreciation to the Philippine Embassy and US-Philippines Society. a simple salu-salo followed the official program. n

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DATELINE PHILIPPINES

Solon tells US: PH wants Balangiga bells, not airstrikes in Marawi

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

THE United States should return the Balangiga bells back to the Philippines instead of conducting air strikes in the conflict-stricken Marawi City, a Filipino lawmaker said on Wednesday, August 9.

In a statement, Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Zarate stressed that the Filipinos “want the bells, not the bombs.”

“The U.S. has yet to return the Balangiga bells and other war booties they took from our country as well as apologize for the atrocities they committed during the Philippine American War and now they have the gall to say that they are going to launch airstrikes against parts of our country?” he added.

The lawmaker made the remarks following a report from NBC News that the Pentagon is considering a plan to allow the U.S. military to launch airstrikes against the Islamic State (IS)-linked group in the Philippines that attacked Marawi City in Mindanao.

Zarate, however, slammed the report, saying that it “blatantly trample[s]” the Philippines’ na-

tional sovereignty.

“This is the height of callousness and should be condemned,” the lawmaker said, adding that such move signals the “commission of blatant human rights violations.”

For its part, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said that it has “yet to receive any formal notice or offer for such air capability deployment.”

Referring to the PhilippineU.S. defense pact, AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año noted that the existing Mutual Defense Treaty provides that “only technical assistance and training” may be allowed under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB).

“Direct military actions may only be allowed during actual invasion of the Philippines by another state actor,” he added.

He then expressed appreciation over Washington’s desire to help Manila in ending the ongoing fight against terrorists in the southern Philippines.

“We appreciate Pentagon’s reported desire to help the Philippines in the fight against Daeshinspired Maute Group because

Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Zarate Inquirer.net photo

terrorism is a global menace that the community of nations must unite to fight against,” the AFP chief said.

In his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) last month, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte asked Washington to return the bells of Balangiga Church in Samar, which were seized by U.S. soldiers as spoils of war in the 1900s.

In response, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim assured that Washington “would like to return all three bells as soon as possible.” ■

Recto orders to hunt down new airport modus perpetrators

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

MANILA - Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto called on the National Bureau of Investigations (NBI) to lead the crackdown on the so-called “Maleta Gang” syndicate preying travelers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The senator also urged other

Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto Inquirer.net photo

non-NAIA based agencies to conduct a probe against the perpetrators who reportedly steal from the passengers of the country’s premier airport.

Recto made the call following the arrest of four NAIA baggage handlers who allegedly stole jewelry owned by the wife of Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Wednesday, August 9.

“It took a foreign VIP to lodge a complaint before authorities finally took action against a continuing crime routinely posted by its victims, our OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers), in social media,” the senator said in a statement released the following day.

If needed, Recto said that an “intelligence fund” should be used, as “it will be a good money worth spending.”

He remarked the country would have been “spared of this embarrassing incident” if only the authorities had done it a long time ago.

He also claimed that money

should not be a problem in transforming NAIA’s image as an “honest institution” from its bad reputation inflicted by “a few bad eggs working there.”

According to the senator, the government “was already collecting P9.3 billion from NAIA passengers and airlines, netting P5.25 billion,” in 2014.

He said that a third of NAIA’s P9.3 billion gross income came from the P550 international terminal fee and the P200 domestic terminal fee paid by passengers, which reached P3.5 billion in the same year.

“Sa ganitong kita, ano ba naman ang gastos para sa dagdag na CCTV at pulis sa baggage routes (With this kind of income, what does hinder them from installing additional CCTV and assigning police at baggage routes),” Recto added.

He also noted that P598 million in Airport Security Fees was also collected from NAIA users

u PAGE A9

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A8 AUGUST 12-15, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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OPINION

Thievery at NAIA

FEATURES

WILL national embarrassments ever end at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA)? As if the daily congestion, flight delays and long lines at immigration counters weren’t enough, the wife of a visiting foreign dignitary has been robbed at the NAIA Terminal 1.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his wife Hulya were in Manila for the ministerial and other meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Upon returning to their country, Mrs. Cavusoglu discovered that the jewelry box she had placed in her luggage had disappeared.

The jewelry box contained three gold rings with diamonds and pearls, three sets of pearl earrings and a gold bracelet with diamonds.

The only positive aspect of this story is that the missing items were found—in the NAIA 1 locker of a baggage loader of the Miascor Ground Handling Corp. Now under investigation are baggage handlers Yves Ronald Baguion, Wilson Mataganas, John Andrews Racoma and a certain Alfaro.

After this theft, those responsible for bullet planting or tanim-bala seem to have more finesse.

President Rodrigo Duterte must ensure not only

that appropriate sanctions are imposed on the perpetrators but also that the thievery will not be repeated.

The NAIA is just starting to recover from its tag as one of the world’s worst airports. The airport has come to symbolize the status of the country as a regional laggard in many aspects of development. While neighboring countries are competing for the honor of having the world’s best airport, the NAIA often seems to be in competition for being the worst.

As ASEAN chair and host of this year’s regional meetings, the Philippines is uniquely placed to promote its assets, especially the hospitality of its people. The ASEAN meetings were supposed to provide an opportunity for showcasing the best of the country. Thievery in the country’s premier gateway is putting the nation’s worst foot forward. (Philstar.com)

Guest Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Fil-Ams weigh in on sanctuary cities that provide a safe haven for undocumented immigrants

The Fil-Am Perspective GEL SANTOS-RELOS THE TRUMP administration has intensified its crackdown on sanctuary cities — jurisdictions that provide a safe haven for undocumented immigrants by limiting how local law enforcement can cooperate with federal immigration agents.

There are about 300 sanctuary cities in the United States, some of which have already filed lawsuits against the Trump administration after President Donald Trump signed an executive order that aims at blocking federal funding to “sanctuary cities.”

Filipinos weigh in this contentious issue and here are some of the perspectives shared with this author: “Filipinos in San Francisco are thankful to Mayor Ed Lee who continues to protect the rights of over 36,000 Fil-Ams in the city.

San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee through City Attorney Dennis Herrera filed a federal lawsuit against President Donald Trump challenging the constitutionality of an executive order threatening sanctuary cities with enforcement actions and a loss of federal funding.

“San Francisco as a sanctuary city is about making people who live here feel safe to be an active participant in the fabric of San Francisco’s community. It’s about being able to go to school and pursue higher education and

learning opportunities. It’s about being able to work and provide for our children and families. It’s about being able to access city services available to all residents — financial, housing, education, healthcare, transportation. It’s about being able to live your fullest life without fear. It’s about treating all residents equally and with dignity.

“This is what democracy is about. Many Filipinos have not experienced this type of living. I have found Filipinos who live in San Francisco to be kinder and helpful to each other. Sharing their blessings with those who have less especially with family in our home country.

Is it good for Filipinos living in the City of San Francisco? You bet it is.” - Marily Mondejar, CEO, Filipina Women’s Network Chair and President, Commission on Community Investment and Infrastructure, Successor Agency to the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency “As a humanitarian, and as an advocate for all the good of people locally and globally, the president’s aim in bringing undocumented immigrants out of the shadow have several impacts, good and bad as well. I am totally in favor of the president’s concern, particularly, he is on his plate not only to target illegal immigrants, but at the same token, to make changes in immigration law, rules and regulations which may benefit [naturalized] citizens

of this nation of milk and honey.

For Filipinos who are naturalized and who are legally here are in good standing because they came over as legal, had undergone the long legal process of coming over using all their resources, time, money, and everything in order to migrate here with proper documentations. For those people who are here illegally shouldn’t be here - they exhaust all the resources, jobs, benefits that must only belong to those who are here legally and should belong to the legal immigrants who sacrificed every inch of their efforts , went through all legal process-they waited long and hard and opted to spend considerable amount of energy, time, money in following the immigration rule and law. For Filipinos who have been naturalized are mostly hurt because of some reasons I mentioned above.

I totally understand where President Trump is coming from - he wanted to see our country to be in a better place, and to make it “Great Again.” Additionally, he also wanted to see our country’s laws on immigration be studied further, be revised or amended to the fullest for the benefit of all the citizens. These changes may as well benefit the citizens and those Filipinos who have naturalized, as well- will have better services, better resources, better job opportunities, in contrary to those illegal immigrants and undocumented who unfortunately did not have undertaken long,

Choosing health and wellness “In the same way, when we ponder deeply how God has Rhizomes touched our lives in so many amazing ways—by freeing us from slavery to our sins, giving us hope, healing our minds and bodies, changing our hard hearts, answering our prayers, helping PROSY ABARQUEZus through adversities—when DELACRUZ, J.D. we truly consider these things, we too know with certainty that the Lord is God in the heavens above and on earth below, and there is no other!” – Pondering the Word, The Anawim Way, July 23-Sept. 2, 2017.

IT has to start from a mindset to be and to stay healthy.

A philosopher recently shared that the three pillars of health consist of nutrition, sleep, and exercise. All three combine to lead one towards a path to health and wellness. I will add a fourth: a mindset formed around God’s teachings and that considers others’ well-being, as well as ourselves.

What are the ingredients of a healthy mindset?

It is a mindset that considers one’s cache of strengths, not a mindset of looking at what we lack.

For with this mindset focused on “what we lack,” we start aspiring for what others have. We compare our lives with others.

Worst, we compare ourselves with our own family members. We start making an inventory – how are we loved by our parents? What kind of attention did others receive? What did we receive? What are the sources of inequality around our lives? Were we loved?

But switch that instead to whom could I pour my love into at this moment? How can I be a more humane human being? We start not being on the sidelines; instead, we move to the center and move to help another.

We focus not on what others can give us, instead what we can do to serve others. We no longer feel entitled “to take from others” feeling the lack inside us, and to feel more whole, we stop desiring and asking for more. We stop accumulating commodities. We stop the trek to buy. Instead, we focus on the present. We focus on the experiences. What can we give others?

We become engaged in the now. Who do I help?

It is a mindset focused on the present. It is a mindset that looks forward to relating to others in the now. In focusing on the now, we feel lighter and able to connect. The cares of what to do next momentarily disappears.

We are not in the gridlock of the internet nor on our smartphones. We care about the person in front of us. In connecting, we feel less anxious about what we have and we listen intently to the other.

We become one with their dreams and aspirations.

We might even find a way on how we can assist in getting their dreams moving forward into reality.

We even get to observe what miracle is occurring in our midst — healthy babies moving around, healthy plumerias in bloom, the luscious fruit trees abundant with avocados, persimmons, pears, oranges, and simply waiting for fall to be

legal process of coming to America, who simply maybe used a [small] time, efforts and energy and as soon as they are here, they grab some of those benefits, resources, jobs, and everything that should belong to the legal immigrants who have, as I mentioned worked hard enough, going through proper documentations etc. If President Trump shall withhold federal fundings to those cities, simply tough luck and sorry -- therefore, I am all for President Trump’s [policy] re: Sanctuary Cities.” - Charito C. Benipayo, Community Leader, Journalist, Educator “Sanctuary cities are good for the Filipino Americans as it will keep communities safe. Local police or officials should not participate in a ‘deportation force’ that undermines community trust. The enforcement of immigration law is within the power and authority of the federal officials or ICE agents and should not be passed on to the local governments. If local police will be given the task of enforcing immigration law and detaining immigrants in unlawful status, public safety will be at risk, as immigrants who may be victims or witnesses to crimes, are less likely to cooperate with local authorities.” - Atty. Lou Tancinco, Community Leader, Immigration Lawyer, Tancinco Law Office “There should be a difference between a criminal and a law abiding citizen, legal or illegal.

Bad for any citizen Filipino or non Filipino. Sanctuary cities prevent the referral of a convicted illegal to immigration authorities for deportation. This endanger[s] the lives of immigration officers to have to find and re-arrest the illegal criminal in a more hostile environment.” - J. Angelo Barrios, Engineer. Studio City, CA “The entirety of the continent served as a sanctuary for the Pilgrims, their descendants and various Europeans fleeing political, religious and/or economic persecution. Sanctuaries are totally an American tradition. The idea of sanctuary has become controversial only because it’s for black/brown people nowadays. Is it good for Filipinos in the US? Of course. It protects them from the rabid actuations of ICE, which arrests even victims of domestic violence testifying in courts and arrests DACA recipients.”- Ninotchka Rosca, Journalist, Author “At any angle [it’s] really bad because the U.S. has their own laws on immigration just like us and we are living in a civilized world that honors and respect the rules of law. It is best for undocumented immigrants to do what they are ought to do - to follow all procedures in immigrating... and that would be fair enough for both parties - both legal and binding without any fear of prosecution.”- Ernesto Calabig “Sanctuary City is good for the Filipino-American community in

fully ripened.

Can you see how God provides for us in the now?

That even the tomatoes on the vine, even if unwatered, would bear fruit in time?

I had falsely thought that tomatoes must be watered daily. Until the drought made me see that intermittent watering allows them to have more fruits.

An NHK documentary changed my preconceptions when I saw how a tomato grower in Japan grew tomatoes on a mixture of gravel and soil, to facilitate little uptake of water, limited to what the gravel and the soil would allow. In that process, the robust tomato plants bloomed with luscious fruits. I wonder how much water was wasted by the farmers in Central Valley until they changed into drip watering and from daily watering into a schedule of three to four times a week? Could our bodies perhaps be likened to tomato plants requiring only watering three to four times a week?

What are healthy bodies?

We all know that infants need their mother’s milk to thrive. That they eat on demand. Watching twin boys being fed showed me this concretely. One of the twins finished his entire bottle at his feeding time, while the other twin took only two ounces of milk at a time. Twin A’s tummy was full, so he was free to explore what he needed to do – to move his body around. So he did, he turned from his back to his tummy and kept turning. He was getting his exercise instinctively. Until he heard his mom leave the room, he started to whimper a bit, as if to say, “Hey, where are you going?”

On the other hand, Twin B took awhile to finish his bottle. He only took a few ounces, then moved as much as Twin A. Then, a whimper, and he was ready for the rest of the bottle. Imagine if the mother is not as patient and kept forcing the bottle on this

the U.S. First, if there is no policy like this, many undocumented Filipinos could have [been exported] back to the Philippines.

As an immigrant rights activist for 20 years, we have fought for this policy. In LA, since the 1950s, the city had clearly stood for the immigrants that it banned the LAPD to arrest immigrant. It forbade them to question people on their immigrant status[es].

And LA stood for this policy the same as San Francisco and other cities.

“Other Filipinos who have adopted the American mainstream attitude are against this for they have anti-immigrant bias. The same racism that they breed while in the Philippines. Which is basically anti-poor. And we can see this is this attitude towards EJK in the Philippines. They do not [care even] if 12,000 are killed without legal process as long as they are not affected. In the U.S., as long as they are American citizens, they don’t don’t care for immigrants [and they dolt the antiimmigrant reasoning especially] the pro-GOP ones.

“They conveniently forget that there are 1.5 million Filipinos who overstayed or have no legal papers. Even the government [would] not admit that there is [a] very large population of TNTs in the U.S. The Philippine officials minimize it or just turn a blind eye on it. PRRD is guilty of such patronizing attitude towards

u PAGE A11

twin, both of them would end up frustrated. Instead, the mom happily surrendered to Twin B’s particular feeding style, 2 ounces of milk at a time. While it was not quite convenient for the mom, Twin B was fully respected as Twin A. So at the end of their feeding, one done in no time, while the other done in two installments, the twins were happy to explore their surroundings, moving about, and gravitating towards each other.

Isn’t that what we are supposed to do? Gravitate more towards one another? Bond with one another more? Try more of these bonding experiences, where you are simply in the present, no drama and gossip, just simply observing God moving about in all the people around you. It is a wonderful surround-sound experience, using your eyes.

The importance of sleep You must have heard this from others. Stop eating at 7 p.m. to give our tummies a chance to digest what we ate. Try this with the infants wherein their last feeding is at 7 p.m., after a bath, and how they become so happy after bath time, then, reading to them. Leave them after that ritual of connection and they are ready to sleep. And sleep they do!

It’s the same with adults. Notice how older folks are particular about eating before 6 p.m. They want to give their tummies a chance to digest their dinner. In giving that time period to our tummies to process what we eat, we sleep better.

It helps too that like infants, we have our own rituals of decompressing, of de-stressing ourselves – some do it with taking a bath with candles, some do it with listening to classical music, and while some do it by reading on their iPads, which prolongs the falling asleep, given the light from the device, and ends up stimulating one’s brain and defeating the falling

u PAGE A9

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OpiniOn & Features

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL â&#x20AC;˘ AUgUSt 12-15, 2017

A

ASEAN LIGHTING CEREMONY. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Hellen dela Vega (sixth from right) and National Commission for Culture and Arts Chairperson Virgilio Almario lead the ASEAN lighting ceremonies at CCP Complex in Pasay City on Tuesday, Aug. 8.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

Choosing health and wellness

PAGE A8 t

asleep process. It is in sleeping that our bodies renew ourselves.

Try not sleeping even for just a night and see how you feel. It is not just grogginess but it is a feeling of being unable to think straight. Try doing that for two more nights and you enter the la la land. You become disoriented.

You become preoccupied with negativity, with the inappropriate mindset. Notice the homeless veterans talking to someone yet there is no one? We can easily lapse into that state with no sleep or lack of sleep and even become more anxious and obsessed with negativity from not getting our bodies regenerated and renewed.

Notice those diagnosed with sleep apnea, after a sleep study supervised by a medical doctor, are now equipped with a device to keep them breathing through their sleep? They emerge happier and they look younger. I recently met my favorite dentists/couple who practiced their profession as partners â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they seem to have become younger in retirement.

They shared their sleep disorder

Without nutrition, one cannot exercise and without sleep, one cannot get the proper nutrition, as oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body is not prepared to take on the food, nor digest it to be functional in the world.

And with Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s word guiding us daily, our minds, our hearts, and our bodies get the proper nutrition to a sustained path of health and wellness! Our bodies become the sacred temples created by God to serve others too, not just ourselves!

patterns that were discovered after a study and with their new devices, they are more rested, ready to take on the world.

Are we ready to take on the world? But first, exercise!

Try daily walking, one talk show host posted on Facebook that she and her husband have committed to a regimen of 280 minutes of exercise per week. That is a daily exercise of 30 minutes, plus an extra hour of movement.

I had already started this regimen when I saw women my age, lolas and grandmas laughing as they walk the trails, posting their photos on Facebook. I wanted that similar state of being and I joined them for a few days at the park. I then joined my family members climbing trails. I then started walking on my own. My husband commits to a daily routine of walking miles. Without this daily regimen of walking, our moods change from sweet and amiable to sour and grumpy.

Just like what this philosopher shared, the three pillars of health and wellness are nutrition, sleep, and exercise should co-exist.

*** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rhizomes.â&#x20AC;?

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 Harvardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

and negate the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tourism industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Yang Maleta Gang sa NAIA ang negative effect niyan sa turismo ay tulad din ng damage na ginawa ng Maute group (The Maleta Gang at NAIA gets the same negative effect in our tourism, just like the damage brought by Maute group),â&#x20AC;? the senator said.

He added that â&#x20AC;&#x153;a serious airport cleanup driveâ&#x20AC;? should also include all other major airports in the country.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maganda nga beaches natin, smiling nga tayo (Our beaches are beautiful, we are always smiling) but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having a hard time living down the stigma that our airport is either they plant a bullet in your bag or they divest it of its contents,â&#x20AC;? he said, in reference to the so-called bullet-planting scheme where airport personnels allegedly plant bullets in passengersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; luggage and would later ask money in exchange for their release and record-free passports. n

Recto orders to hunt down new airport...

PAGE A7 t

in 2014. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nagbabayad ka pa ng airport security fee, tapos ang gamit mo hindi secure. So para saan pa ang binayaran mo para sa iyong seguridad at ng iyong gamit (You have paid the security fee and yet your belongings are not secured.

So, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the purpose of that payment intended to secure your things)?â&#x20AC;? he pointed out.

He lamented how controversies surrounding NAIA cause â&#x20AC;&#x153;stigmaâ&#x20AC;?

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Dateline PhiliPPines

6.3 quake jolts Luzon

by RobeRtzon and

RamiRez Helen FloRes

Philstar.com

MANILA - People ran into the streets in panic and classes were suspended in several schools as a powerful earthquake caused buildings to shake, triggering fears that the “big one” had struck on Friday, Aug. 11.

No injuries were reported.

Seismologists said the quake along the “Manila Trench” was centered in Batangas where it

was registered at magnitude 6.3.

The quake was strongest in Nasugbu, Batangas and in Metro Manila, where it was felt at Intensity 4.

In Manila, where people have been bracing for the “big one” from the West Valley Fault, light railway services were halted as the trains were jolted for nearly half a minute.

Students filed out of schools with their hands over their heads, as they had done in previous earthquake exercises, except this

time, school authorities barked with urgency that “this is not a drill.”

In the streets, people including children were seen wearing helmets.

Fearing aftershocks, it took time before people began returning to offices, schools and homes.

This was the same scenario in Quezon City, where officials also reminded employees of Quezon City Hall that this was no drill.

Myke Marasigan, head of the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, said an evacuation of the whole Quezon City Hall building and compound was ordered following the earthquake.

Office workers and students in Metro Manila briefly evacuated their buildings after feeling the moderately strong swaying and shaking.

Buildings in Manila and other nearby areas swayed, while employees of Malacañang and other government buildings were evacuated.

The buildings in the nearby town of Bacoor in Cavite were also evacuated, witnesses said.

Commuters of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system also felt the quake as the train stopped on the tracks as coaches began to sway during the tremor.

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) also suspended operations after the quake.

Several schools, including De La Salle University in Manila, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Far Eastern University, University of the East and Lyceum of Batangas, suspended afternoon classes due to fear of aftershocks.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said no damage was expected because the magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck at a depth of 160 kilometers.

Deeper epicenters often cause less damage on the Earth’s surface, though they can be widely felt.

The tremor struck at 1:28 p.m., with its epicenter traced some kilometers southwest of Nasugbu, Batangas.

The tremor was felt as far north as Olongapo City and Pampanga, prompting suspension of work and classes.

The tremor revived fears among Metro Manila residents of the “Big One,” a magnitude 7.2 earthquake to be generated by the West Valley Fault, which is ripe for movement. n

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Robredo officially chairs Liberal Party

PHILIPPINE Vice President Leni Robredo is now the official chairperson of the once-ruling Liberal Party (LP), whose former members are now part of the opposition.

Robredo’s chairmanship was ratified by the LP’s national executive council during its party members’ lowkey meeting held on Thursday, August 10 at the University of the Philippines (UP).

In an Inquirer report, Ifugao Representative Teddy Baguilat Jr. quoted Robredo saying that the LP must rebuild itself and focus on grassroots campaigns, “not so much on politicians.”

Present in the meeting were Senators Franklin Drilon and Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, and House Representatives Kit Belmonte, Nene Sato, Teddy Baguilat, Edcel Lagman, Raul Daza, and Bolet Banal.

Also in attendance were former House Speaker Sonny Belmonte, and former LP Presidents Mar Roxas, Butch Abad, and Wigberto Tanada, among others.

switched to the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP)-Laban party of current Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

The party, which previously had over 100 members, now only has 30. The PDP, on the other hand, boasts a “supermajority” in Congress.

Pangilinan said among his plans as the party president include the rebuilding of the LP as a “genuine people’s party” by recruiting “new blood” from Vice Pres. Leni Robredo Inquirer.net photo the academe, basic sectors, civil Senator Francis “Kiko” Pan- society organizations, entrepregilinan was also elected as the neurs, the religious and faithparty’s president, while former based sectors, arts and culture, Philippine President Benigno and women.

“Sa krisis, sinasabi nila, nari“Noynoy” Aquino III was conferred the title chairman emeri- yan din ang oportunidad. At narito tayo humaharap sa oportus.

In a statement, Pangilinan tunidad na palakasin ang ating said he chose to take the LP partido upang maging tunay na presidency “not because of the partido ng taumbayan (In cricertainty of victory, but because sis lies opportunity. And we are of the certainty of our convic- now faced with the opportunity to strengthen our party to betion.”

The LP was the ruling party come a genuine representative of during the former Aquino admin- the people),” Pangilinan added. istration. Most of its members (Dana Sioson/AJPress)

Parojinog siblings barred from attending parents’ burial by emmanuel

tupas

Philstar.com

MANILA - The Ozamiz Regional Trial Court (RTC) on Friday, Aug. 11, denied the request for furlough of Ozamiz City Vice Mayor Nova Princess Parojinog-Echavez and her brother Reynaldo Parojinog Jr. to attend the wake and burial of their parents who were killed in a police raid last July 30.

Ozamiz RTC Branch 15 Executive Judge Edmundo Pintac cited safety and security of the siblings and their police escorts in denying the request. They are detained at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

“The court chooses the path of caution and gives greater weight to the assessment of the police, more especially that of the Ozamiz police, as heretofore narrated as it is in the better, if not best, position to the same, it being equipped with the necessary means and resources,” Pintac said a three-page order.

While they commiserate with the Parojinogs, Pintac said emotions are still high between people who are sympathetic to the siblings and those who are against them.

“The court is overly concerned for good reason that the presence of the accused-movants would pro-

The Ozamiz Regional Trial Court denied the request for furlough of Ozamiz City Vice Mayor Nova Princess Parojinog-Echavez and her brother Reynaldo Parojinog Jr. to attend the wake and burial of their parents who were killed in a police raid last July 30.

Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban

vide the spark that would cause these emotions to erupt and for the opposing sides to turn violent and clash against each other,” he added.

The court also took into consideration a confidential report from Ozamiz police head Chief Insp.

Jovie Espenido that supporters of the siblings would stage a “daring and bloody rescue” if they are allowed furlough.

The siblings filed a motion seeking furlough for them to be present on the last vigil on Aug. 13 and burial on Aug. 14 of their parents and relatives.

Ozamiz City mayor Reynaldo

Parojinog Sr., his wife Susan, brother Octavio, sister Mona and other associates were killed in a police raid in the family compound last July 30 over alleged involvement in the drug trade.

The information officer of mayor Parojinog now fears for her life days after the raid.

Ellen Pelare, head of Parojinog’s media bureau, said she filed a leave of absence for security reasons because Ozamiz police chief Espenido, the top cop behind the Parojinog raid, was blaming her for uploading a video showing

u PAGE A11

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DATELINE PHILIPPINES

Trump and even elucidated that they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help the TNT because they are violating the U.S. laws on immigration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Actually, if the Fil-Ams are the 2nd largest API community in the U.S. and the largest in California.

We also have the 2nd largest immigrant or undocumented community in the U.S. after the Latinos and Central Americans. Our officials are in denial.

Thus the Sanctuary City is very favorable for us immigrants and immigrant rights advocates.

[Trump] is wrong in defunding and violating this basic democratic and immigrant rights of 11 million people who are law abiding and who are paying their taxes. They are not a threat to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;national securityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and are here due to the flaws in our immigration law. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Instead of anti-immigrant laws and anti-sanctuary laws, the Trump administration chooses to destroy the Obama laws that favor immigrants. The GOP-controlled Congress [should] pass genuine immigration laws and now antiimmigrant laws that are counterproductive. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trumps anti-sanctuary laws are anti-people. anti democratic and will only spawn hatred, conflict and instability among the cities of the US.â&#x20AC;?- Art Garcia, Community Leader â&#x20AC;&#x153;If they are not suppose[d] to be here they need to leave. By being here undocumented is a crime.... they broke the law and therefore they are considered criminals... thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the law.....we need to respect the laws of the land.â&#x20AC;? - Pila Concon â&#x20AC;&#x153;The United States of America has been at its best and most impressive when it has bravely accepted the responsibility and challenge of a history and legacy of refugees and immigrants. It

should be noted that Steve Jobs was the child of Syrian refugees, Olympic skater Michelle Kwan is the daughter of Chinese immigrants, UN ambassador Nikki Haley is the daughter of Indian parents, Colin Powell is the child of Jamaican immigrants, and Singer Bruno Mars is the child of a mother from Manila and Cebu.

It should be noted that all of these groups, including those of the Filipinos, were often the target of laws aimed at banning and discriminating. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It should also be noted that the country has been at its most cruel, frightening and horrific when it was at its most xenophobic. This includes Chinese Exclusion Acts, the Jim Crow laws (which were imposed against Filipinos as well), the Ku Klux Klan, the JapaneseAmerican internment [during] World War II, the Zoot Suit Riots, Operation Wetback, the Minuteman Militia movement, and the most frightening aspects of the current Tea Party movement. In these cases, we must remember that all it took was a few people to reveal the injustice of such actions.â&#x20AC;? -Jose Ricardo G. Bondoc, Chief Editor of SFNewsfeed.us â&#x20AC;&#x153;The concept of sanctuary that dates back to a British common law principal giving communities and churches the basic right to provide a safe haven for persons sought by courts exists in jurisprudence. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a tradition, however, and, in reality? Not defendable in law.

Think of it as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;people powerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or a sit in or blockade style protest. In U.S. federal law, while most law enforcement agencies accept it.

If ordered by a court, it will be enforced. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The U.S. laws on immigration are clear, states may regulate affairs of citizens and residents.

But the status of these people [is] subject to the federal mandates which cover all matters involving immigration in the USA.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, no one wants to see federal agents faced off versus police or local and state officials. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But if so ordered, the law of land at large will prevail.

In the 1960s states sought to keep schools segregated in the southern us states. Refusing to allow African American students into some schools even with federal court orders issued.

In the end, the U.S. army was deployed to see those laws were enforced. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The same stands for these laws on immigration and the tradition of sanctuary. If federal courts and the Supreme Court decides this matter and it favors the federal government? No local law may stand versus that, to do such actions would be tantamount to rebellion or insurrection or subversion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Martial law could be declared and the laws enforced. That has happened in the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s past. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the end, it will be up to the courts and ultimately the Supreme Court of the USA. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Should cities or states chose to still stand and fight for sanctuary protection of residents deemed alien and unlawfully present as defined by law? Then it is within the authority of the President to declare that city or state in rebellion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Resistance? If the SCOTUS rules in favor of the federal government? Is indeed futile.â&#x20AC;? - Mike Cohen, Journalist ***

A11

Honasan posts bail in Laguna

Fil-Ams weigh in on sanctuary cities...

PAGE A8 t

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL â&#x20AC;˘ AUGUST 12-15, 2017

by ROSELLE AND

AQUINO JEFFERSON ANTIPORDA ManilaTimes.net

BINAN CITYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Senator Gregorio â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gringoâ&#x20AC;? Honasan posted bail before a court here on Friday, Aug. 11.

Before this, Honasan appeared voluntarily at the police headquarters at 7 a.m. with his lawyer Dennis Manalo in this city where he was arrested.

He was met by Chief Supt Mao Aplasca, Calabarzon Regional Director; Sr Supt Cecilio Ison, Laguna provincial director; and Supt Elpidio Ramirez, Binan City chief of police.

On Thursday, Aug. 10, the Sandiganbayan ordered the senatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrest for two counts of graft for the alleged misuse of hie P30 million Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel in 2012.

Personnel from PRO4A Crime Laboratory took the senatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood pressure, mug shots, fingerprints and buccal swab.

After processing, Honasanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s group went to the office of Judge Teodoro Solis of Binan RTC Branch 25 where he posted

Senator Gringo Honasan

P60,000 bail.

Honasan maintained his innocence saying: â&#x20AC;&#x153;All my life I have fought everything I am accused of, and I will continue to do so.â&#x20AC;?

Citing documents from June 2012, the Ombudsman said Honasan endorsed non-government organization Focus Development Goals Foundation Inc. for the fund release without complying with procurement requirements.

The budget department had released Honasanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PDAF, with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) as the

ManilaTimes.net photo

implementing agency, for disbursement to the NGO supposedly for livelihood projects for Muslim communities in Metro Manila and Zambales.

Aside from Honasan, the Sandiganbayan also ordered the arrest of his political affairs chief Michael Benjamin; NCMF Secretary Mehol Sadain; NCMF officials Fedelina Aldanese, Galay Makalinggan, Aurora Aragon-Mabang, and Olga Galido; and Focus Development Goals Foundation Inc. officers Giovannie Manuel Gaerlan and Salvador Gaerlan. â&#x2013;

Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Balitang America.â&#x20AC;? Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFilAmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Parojinog siblings barred from attending...

PAGE A10 t Espenido allegedly maltreating a young detainee at the police station.

Pelare denied uploading the video.

Espenido stays But Espenido will continue to stay as police chief of Ozamiz.

PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said that while he is inclined to transfer Espenido to another locality with persistent problems on illegal drugs, there

are requests from residents of Ozamiz who want Espenido to remain as their police chief. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They want their place safe, that is why they are opposing if Espenido will be transferred,â&#x20AC;? he added.

President Duterte recently awarded Espenido for his contributions to the war against drugs.

Before being chief of Ozamiz City police, Espenido was police chief of Albuera, Leyte. Albuera mayor Rolando Espinosa, who

was also accused of involvement in drugs, was killed by policemen while in prison.

PNP identifies Parojinog cops Meanwhile, the PNP has identified the policemen who may have taken part in the killings of civilians on orders of the Parojinog clan in Ozamiz City, Dela Rosa said.

He declined to divulge the names of the policemen as intelligence operatives are still validating their alleged involvement with the Parojinog clan. â&#x2013;

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SHOWBIZ&STYLE

B

Journal Getting to know Dingdong Dantes without the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

by Ricky Lo

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Super Maâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;amâ&#x20AC;? coming soon), Dingdong stays home and so does Marian when Dingdong has to â&#x20AC;&#x153;By babysitting.â&#x20AC;?

That, according to Dingdong work.

In â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alyas Robin Hood,â&#x20AC;? DingDantes, was how he prepared for the second coming of Alyas â&#x20AC;&#x153; Robin dong is back as Pepe, the former Hood,â&#x20AC;?his hit GMA series which vigilante known as Robin Hood starts airing on Monday, Aug. 14. who buried his identity towards â&#x20AC;&#x153;This toddler stage,â&#x20AC;? referring the end of season one. Moving to his and wife Marian Riveraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forward with his life, he is now a daughter Zia who is turning two in competent lawyer who continues November, â&#x20AC;&#x153;got me doing sprints his mission to serve the poor and all day during my babysitting du- the oppressed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Season 2 is a great blessties.â&#x20AC;?

Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right. Dingdong and Mar- ing for the entire cast and crew, ian alternate in their â&#x20AC;&#x153;baby duties.â&#x20AC;? which is why they are working When Marian is busy with her two twice as hard to meet and exceed GMA shows, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sunday Pinasayaâ&#x20AC;? the viewersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectations,â&#x20AC;? said Dingdong.

Philstar.com photos and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tadhanaâ&#x20AC;? (with a third one, Philstar.com

Dingdong Dantes

What is Iza Calzadoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday wish? by kRisteL

Dacumos-LagoRza Philstar.com

WITH her critically acclaimed film â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bliss,â&#x20AC;? her successful TV series â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Love to Last,â&#x20AC;? and with her handsome, long-time boyfriend Ben Wintle by her side, Iza Calzado has so much to be grateful for this 2017.

With her birthday just around the corner, Iza shares that there is one thing she is wishing for. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happiness, more projects, and the best of health, yun lang talaga,â&#x20AC;? beams the radiant, 35to-be actress who graced the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; recent event, the Green Wanderer Travel Fair.

As one of WWFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national ambassadors, Iza also hopes and encourages everyone to take up their roles as responsible stewards of the environment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wish for a better world for everybody, where nobody has to starve or go through life in strife. It makes me so sad seeing (the poverty and the struggle that many of our countrymen are go through.)

Bakit kailangan ganito yung disparity?â&#x20AC;? she says.

provement? â&#x20AC;&#x153;My left calf always gets injured lately. I have to bring this to PACE prehab for therapy. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to run around with only one functional leg in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Robin Hoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fight scenes.â&#x20AC;?

Favorite part of your body? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Still my left eyebrow.â&#x20AC;?

Part of a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s body that you notice first? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Face.â&#x20AC;?

What about your diet? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Food. Beer.â&#x20AC;?

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for breakfast, for lunch and for dinner? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like Paleo meals.â&#x20AC;?

Any snacks between meals?

PAGE B5

The seriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; director, Dominic Zapata, shared that they are pushing boundaries to make the show as successful as the first one, if not even more so. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iba na ang panlasa ng Pinoy, so you have to give them what they deserve. Conceptually, sa effects, sa story, mas malaki ang gagawin natin. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the only way to go, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the only reason you can give the audience for doing a sequel.â&#x20AC;?

Aside from babysitting, what other workout do you do? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like running and, sometimes, if conditions permit, cycling. I also cross-train it with crossfit endurance.â&#x20AC;?

Part of body that needs im-

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Iza Calzado wants to spend her birthday on August 12 with nature.

She admits that all of us could greatly benefit if we were to treat each other with a little more compassion and kindnessâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;that goes as well with how we treat the environment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thankfully, people have grown more aware about environmental protection and such, so what we need now

Philstar.com photo

is action,â&#x20AC;? she says.

It is never easy; making the right choices takes daily commitment, she reveals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even as one of the national ambassadors, I need to improve and make more conscientious choices everyday.I often have to remind myselfâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is PAGE B3

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AJ AdsAUGUST 97 July 2017_Layout 1 8/9/17 PM PageASIAN 1 12-15, 2017 • LA 6:18 WEEKEND JOURNAL B2

FEATURES

‘Ang Probinsyano’ cast leads ‘Saludo sa Sundalong Pilipino’

age gracefully

Mint: It Does the Body Good!

The inspiration for this drink comes from the Cuban mojito. My nonalcoholic version uses sparkling water. Mint leaves aid digestion. The agave nectar is high in fructose, which means that it does not raise your blood sugar to the same extent as other sweeteners do. For a stronger mint flavor, use more mint leaves.

Coco Martin and co-stars find a meaningful way to celebrate the show’s 100th week on air

Mint Agave Tonic Serves 2 2 small bunches fresh mint leaves 1⁄4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes) 4–8 tsp. agave nectar 2-1⁄2 cups sparkling water Crushed ice (optional)

1. Place 5–7 mint leaves in each of tall glasses. Bruise the leaves with a cocktail muddle, the handle of a wooden spoon, or the tines of a whisk to help them release their fragrant oil.

2. Mince or chiffonade the remaining mint leaves and divide them equally between the glasses.

3. Add the lime juice, agave nectar, and water in equal amounts. Stir until the agave is dissolved. Add crushed ice.

© 2017 by FoodTrients.com

BY GRACE O If you ask me, mint makes just about everything taste better. It also delivers some impressive benefits: • Aids Digestion: Mint is a great appetizer or palate cleanser, and it promotes digestion. It also soothes the stomach in case of indigestion or inflammation. When your stomach feels sick, drinking a cup of mint tea can give you relief.

• Helps Nausea and Headache: The aroma of mint leaves, especially freshly crushed leaves help you deal with nausea and headache.

• Asthma: Regular use of mint is very beneficial for asthma patients, as it is a good relaxant and relieves congestion. But using too much mint this way can also irritate the nose and throat.

• Depression and Fatigue: Mint is a natural stimulant, and the smell alone can be enough to charge your batteries and get your brain functioning at a high level again.

• Skin Care and Pimples: While mint oil is a good antiseptic and antipruritic material, the mint juice is an excellent skin cleanser.

It soothes the skin and helps to cure infections and itchiness.

• Memory Loss: A recent study explored the effects that mint has on alertness, retention and cognitive function. It found that people who frequently use chewing gum, in which the major active ingredient is mint, had higher levels of memory retention and mental alertness than those who did not.

• Weight Loss: Mint can also help us lose weight in a healthy way. Mint stimulates the digestive enzymes that absorb nutrients from food and consume fat and turns it into usable energy.

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

THE cast of top-rated prime time series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” meaningfully celebrated its 100th week on air by joining a show that paid tribute to the bravery and heroism of Filipino soldiers dubbed “Saludo sa Sundalong Pilipino.”

Mounted by thier network, ABSCBN, the program was held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Medical Center Auditorium on August 3.

“Saludo sa Sundalong Pilipino” came to be after the network learned that soldiers were requesting so see and meet the stars of the series as they recover from fighting for the country in Marawi and other areas in conflict. Happy to oblige and help raise morale in the force, lead stars Coco Martin and Yassi Pressman serenaded the troops, while Susan Roces, Jaime Fabregas, Mitch Valdez, Angel Aquino, Sid Lucero, and Mark Lapid also gave their messages of gratitude to the nation’s heroes.

After the show, the stars handed out grocery packages and personal care kits to the soldiers from ABSCBN Lingkod Kapamilya.

In his message, Martin, who plays a Special Action Force member series, said, “We owe our lives to all of you because you are the ones who defend our country. We love you and we hope that through this simple way we were able to make you happy.”

Maj. Marissa Narag of the AFP Medical Center thanked the network and the program in turn for taking time to be with the soldiers.

“Thank you especially to the performers for showing your talent to help alleviate stress in our minds even just for today,” she shared.

After a tribute show for Filipino soldiers, Coco Martin personally visits recovering AFP personnel.

ABS-CBN photos

Meanwhile, at a press conference for “Ang Probinsyano’s” 100th week, Martin said, “I am happy that even if we are already in our 100th week, viewers still love and support the series. They inspire us to do our work well, which is why we will not stop in making scenes that are not just action-packed but also full of lessons.”

The actor further promised that viewers are set to witness more surprises every night as his character Cardo (Coco) faces new challenges as a SAF member with new plot twists and characters to bring action and thrill to the series.

Since September 2015, “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” has kept its spot as the most watched TV program nationwide, hitting an all-time high of 46.7 percent, according to data from Kantar Media. The show also became an avenue for renowned action stars such as Lito Lapid, John Regala, Jess Lapid, Victor Neri, at Efren Reyes, Jr. to once again take the limelight and showcase their

GRACE O is the creator of FoodTrients®, a unique program for optimizing wellness and longevity. She is the author of two award-winning cookbooks — The Age Gracefully Cookbook and The Age Beautifully Cookbook, which recently won Gourmand’s ‘Best in the World’ Award for Innovation. She is a fusion chef with a mission to deliver 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 Yassi Pressman, Susan Roces and Martin lead the cast in visiting AFP Medical Center.

action chops.

Moreover, “Ang Probinsyano’s” success has also gone beyond TV with the launch of its mobile game app, which allows users to experience the life of Cardo and save lives.

The app has already reached close to one million downloads.

In terms of recognition, the action-series has also been cited by the House of the Representatives and different government officials including Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mike Sueno and Philippine National Police chief Ronald De Rosa, for promoting crime awareness and prevention among audiences.

Several award-giving bodies have also recognized the series for reflecting the lives of Filipino families, among them the Catholic Mass Media Awards, KBP Golden Dove Awards, and the Box Office Entertainment Awards, where it bagged eight recognitions, setting history in the awards show. (ManilaTimes.net)

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Features

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL â&#x20AC;˘ AUgUSt 12-15, 2017

B

Super Vacation / America Asia Travel Center, Inc. offers unforgettable getaways at reasonable prices

UP Madrigal Singers return to LA on August 19 Award-winning choirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much awaited concert will be in Northridge, CA THE Plaza Del Sol Performance Hall at the Valley Performing Arts Center (VPAC) in the California State University Northridge (CSUN) Campus will reverberate with the voices that have conquered audiences all over the world.

The U.P Madrigal Singers (aka Philippine Madrigal Singers, aka the Madz), only Philippine Choir to have won the prestigious European Grand Prix for Choral Singing, and the only choir in the world to have won twice, is embarking on a US Tour prior to competing for an unprecedented third Grand Prix in Tolosa, Spain.

In 2016, the Madz bested choirs from France, Slovenia, Iceland, Italy, Sweden, Bulgaria and the Ukraine in the Arezzo, Italy competition. Recently, the Madz toured Taiwan and other cities in Asia, prior to spearheading the Andrea O. Veneracion International Choral Festival at the Cultural Center of the Philippines last July 2017.

Founder Andrea Veneracion (National Artist for Music) led the choir at the first EGP win in 1997. Current choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio took the helm in 2001 and continued the Madz

legacy of choral excellence and ushered the choirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way to its 2nd EGP in 2007. Carpio is a respected faculty member of the University of the Philippines and a highlyrecognized choral adjudicator for his achievements.

Touted as the group whose supreme artistry allows them to sing anything and everything with equal aplomb, audiences should expect the unexpected and revel in the sound the Madz is famous for. Repertoire consists of competition pieces, madrigals, original compositions and popular English and OPM songs especially arranged for choral singing.

Concert venue address is 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330. The Plaza Del Sol is part of CSUN, and tickets are $70, $55, and $40 online anytime at www. ticketmaster.com. Special student pricing is available only in-person at the VPAC box office, call or visit (818) 677-3000 11am-4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Tour information at www. musicartsevents.com is available for other stops such as San Francisco (Aug 11-13), Loma Linda (Aug 20), San Diego (Aug 25), Las Vegas (Aug 27) and Austin (Sept 3).

(Advertising Supplement)

Ruru Madrid bent on improving his craft

by Lhar

Santiago ManilaTimes.net

RURU Madrid is now on his own and bent on showing his capability as an actor.

After parting ways with love teammate and rumored girlfriend Gabbi Garcia, Ruru decided to enroll in a series of acting workshops and workouts. He is deep in training for the martial arts of Parkour, Muay Thai and Yin Yang; and has also taken archery lessons. All these are in preparation for his role in the return of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Alyas Robinhood.â&#x20AC;?

For Ruru, to be in an action project is a dream come true. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long wanted to be a part of a series that will challenge him not only as an actor but physically too. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want to be convincing in my actions scenes so I took these lessons. Ayokong dayain and ayoko

ring mag-pa-double. I want to do all the action scenes myself, and the thought of doing them gets me very excited,â&#x20AC;? Ruru enthused.

Ruru is just happy that despite going solo, his career is still going forward with the new show, and a new product endorsement for whitening product Tatio active (owned by former Street Boys Member Danilo Barrios).

He admits though that he misses Gabbi at work sometimes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Masarap kasi siyang katrabaho, magaan. We still work together naman sa â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sunday Pinasaya.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; I hope that time will come when we will be together again in a project. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure it will happen when both of us are able to prove that we can make it as solo stars.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nice is we remain friends despite our separate careers now so it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be hard for us to work Ruru Madrid together again.â&#x20AC;?

WITH summer now in full swing, this also means that vacation season is almost in full effect.

With so many places to visit and so many agencies to book with, planning a trip can be overwhelming and worrisome.

However, Super Vacation / America Asia Travel Center, Inc. vows to take away all the stresses that come with vacation planning to promise fun and memorable experiences. One of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading vacation package providers, Super Vacation offers a boatload of tour packages from a wide variety of tours in the United States as well as long-haul trips to Europe and Asia â&#x20AC;&#x201D; at very reasonable prices.

U.S. tours will be led by tour guides who have at least 10 years of experience and speak fluent English and Chinese. Most tours in the continental U.S. also include transportation in one of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state-of-the-art deluxe coach buses. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We always have the customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; best interests in mind and we like to offer them an unforgettable experience but at a reasonable cost,â&#x20AC;? President Helen Koo said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We make sure we hire the safest drivers, book 3-star hotels and hire very experienced tour guides.

Above all, we want our travelers to be safe and enjoy their vacation.

We know they work hard and we want to make their vacation as easy going as possible.â&#x20AC;?

During the summer months, vacation goers may opt for the

ever-popular Yellowstone National Park, for which Super Vacation offers four to seven-day tours. They also offer Yellowstone packages that travel to other breath-taking destinations like the Grand Canyon, Lake Tahoe, Antelope Canyon and Mt. Rushmore among others.

Another popular package is a three-day tour to Las Vegas and West Grand Canyon which offers a perfect balance between the kinetic energy of Sin City and the peaceful serenity of the Grand Canyon.

For those looking for an island getaway, Super Vacation offers a unique Hawaii tour package that focusses on the natural wonders of The Aloha State like Maui, the Big Island and parts of Oahu.

And these are only a few packages from the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive tour catalogue, which includes U.S. tours in the East Coast, Caribbean and Mexican cruises, grand European tours and the ever-popular China tour.

America Asia Travel Center, Inc. was founded in 1981 with three employees and started off as a standard travel agency, booking flights and hotels and tour packages reservations. The company expanded in 1986 when it purchased its first 56-seat tour bus, establishing itself as the first Chinese-operated bus charter company in the U.S. Now branded as Super Vacation / America Asia Travel Center,

Inc., the company has more than 170 employees in 16 regional offices throughout the U.S., Canada and China and serves more than 200,000 travelers a year. Today, they own and operate more than 20 touring vehicles including 10 56-seat deluxe coaches.

In addition to offering such a wide range of vacation packages, America Asia Travel Center, Inc. is one of the most reliable agencies with a customer-first policy providing top-quality service. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We provide customers with all the knowledge, but we also make sure to provide them with high-quality services. The person-to-person relationship is very important to us,â&#x20AC;? Koo said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For us, the customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; happiness and safety are our No. 1 priority.â&#x20AC;?

The company is your friendly one-stop for all your vacation needs like making reservations for flights, cruise lines, and hotels. Book now!

Super Vacation / America Asia Travel Center, Inc. is located at 117 E. Garvey Ave., Monterey Park, CA. For more information, contact 626-607-0170 or any of their CA offices: Monterey Park 626-571-2988; Rowland Heights 626-810-4388; Irvine 949-5598088; Arcadia 626-821-1986; Cerritos 562-402-2558 and San Diego 619-400-4827.

You may also visit their website at www.americaasia.com.

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SOT# is 101868010.

(Advertising Supplement)

What is Iza Calzadoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday wish?

PAGE B1

this the best choice that I can make?â&#x20AC;?

Whether it is using sustainable steel straws instead of plastic ones, or swapping out plastic bags for more eco-friendly canvas bags to carry her gym stuff, she says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can always start small. I start with small choices that will have a big effect on Mother Nature...If you can become a more responsible, conscientious consumer, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all that matters.â&#x20AC;?

At home, Iza practices living green by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, and being more conscious of her water usage. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Running water is my ultimate pet peeve,â&#x20AC;? she

reveals.

But even outside of the home, while exploring other countries, you can still live out the â&#x20AC;&#x153;clean and green philosophyâ&#x20AC;? as a green traveler, she insists.

At the Green Wanderer Travel fair, held last August 11 to 13 at Central Square, Bonifacio Global City, travelers, including Iza, were treated to an exhibit of partners who are committed to providing an eco-friendlier, sustainable traveling experience. A project led by the National Youth Council of WWF-Philippines, in partnership with the SSI Group, Inc., the Green Wanderer Travel Fair featured sustainable travel options with uniquely curated itineraries at discounted prices,

as well as products made by local artisans. The three-day affair gathered exhibitors,including El Nido Resorts, Skyjet Airlines, Banana Peel, and the Circle Hostel, among others. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Travel fairs are common, but WWF-Philippines wanted to put a twist on this oneâ&#x20AC;Ś Travel takes on a whole other level of significance when done in a way that not only reduces harm, but is beneficial to the environment and local people and animals,â&#x20AC;? says Nikki Huang, fellow National Youth Council Member and active green traveler. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope through this event we can better bring together our passions of travel and eco-sustainability,â&#x20AC;? she ends.

GMA photo

Horror meets â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hugotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Ang Manananggal sa Unit 23Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by iza igLeSiaS ManilaTimes.net

â&#x20AC;&#x153;ANG Manananggal sa Unit 23B,â&#x20AC;? for which Prime Cruz won best director in 2016â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s QCinema Film Festival will finally be shown commercially as one of the featured movies in the first Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, scheduled from August 16 to 22.

The film takes a different approach in telling the tale of the manananggalâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a mythical creature of Filipino folklore usually described as a woman capable of severing her upper body from her lower half and then taking flight with huge bat-like wings. It stars Ryza Cenon and Gawad Urian Best Supporting actor, Martin del Rosario.

In the movie, Jewel (Cenon) is a mysterious woman who lives alone in the city as her secret forces her into a lonely existence. That is, until she meets Nico (del Rosario), a broken hearted, down-and-out guy who also feels unlovable like she does. Jewel is torn between wanting to love him and wanting to save him from herself.

Besides the movie giving Cenon

her first lead role, her notable performance raised some controversy as well due to some daring scenes she was made to do. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This movie is heaven sent to me because the last time I was able to talk with the press was when I was struggling with my life and career. When this [project] came along, it saved me and gave me a push for people to notice me once more. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how important this is for me,â&#x20AC;? Cenon told the entertainment press. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In my 12 years in showbiz, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always been in a supporting role but with this movie, I got my biggest break so far. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very proud of this film because we worked very hard for this,â&#x20AC;? she continued.

Sharing Cenonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sentiments, del Rosario said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just like her Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also only had supporting roles on TV and the movies and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always been my dream to be in a lead with a romantic theme.â&#x20AC;?

Cruzâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ang Manananggal sa Unit 23Bâ&#x20AC;? further earned praises as the story stripped off the Philippine mythical character its monstrosity. Its controlled way of

â&#x20AC;&#x153;humanizingâ&#x20AC;? manananggal sets the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unit 23Bâ&#x20AC;? apart from other manananggal movies in the past that usually show a half-bodied fiend searching for prey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I researched about manananggals but we twisted some facts. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really Primeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream to make a manananggal film, but we wanted the manananggal to be the protagonist, not the antagonist that is usually played out movies. We made the character with human characteristics so that the supernatural becomes relatable,â&#x20AC;? writer Jen Chuaunsu said.

Cruz, according to reviews, ably connected the emotions of the creature with his audience. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When they first brought the filmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concept to us, we were immediately drawn to it because we believed in the story first and foremost, and we feel that the audience is looking for something new.

From the time that it was shown in QCinema last year, and now that it is part of the Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, we took note of the feedbacks from those who watched the film,â&#x20AC;? executive producer Jun PAGE B4

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.PSF JOGPSNBUJPO BU XXX NVTJDBSUTFWFOUT DPN Jewel (Ryza Cenon) is a mysterious woman who is living a lonely existence until she meets Nico (Martin del Rosario), a brokenhearted, down and out guy who also feels unlovable and unwanted.

FEATURES

B4 AUGUST 12-15, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

What is in your ‘Bucket’?

IT is popularly known as the “Holy Land” or the land of Israel.

It is a top “Bucket List” travel destination for many Christians. As my frequent flyer Jay would jokingly say, ….”Bakit List”? Why? Are you in search of a health miracle?

Are you a devout Christian trying to explore the root of your Christian faith? Or are you just trying to visit this amazing place, for a fantastic “selfie” upload?

Let us take you to a very brief spirited “paper journey” to show

you why. Relax, read on and picture this!

Imagine visiting the Church of Nativity, located in Bethlehem.

This ancient church is considered one of the oldest churches in the world. The Church of Nativity is built above a cave known to be the place of birth of Jesus. Feel the joy and humility of being there.

Imagine walking the path towards the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This is perhaps the most important site for a Christian

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

Amazing Southern California road trip destinations to try before summer ends

BY MONET

Emil Perito

pilgrimage. The Church houses both the hill recalling Calvary, and the place of the tomb of the Resurrection of Jesus. Feel the pain and agony of those times but more importantly remember the sanctity and God’s purpose for Jesus’ death.

Imagine traveling to Galilee village of Cana. Do you recall the wedding feast that took place in this location? There is a church that now stands in the town of Kfar Kanna, with visible jars to remind visitors of the story of Jesus’ first miracle, turning water into wine.

Taking a spiritual journey to the Holy Land can be a wonderful way to open up one’s life. Sometimes it takes an experience like this to change and transform.

Join a tour or pilgrimage to the Holy Land with an experienced agency, an agency established in 1995 that does not assume but understands and respects one’s faith and beliefs. For more information about pilgrimages and organized tours, contact Air Plus Travel, at (562) 863-0624. www. airplustravel.net (Advertising Supplement)

Horror meets ‘hugot’ in...

PAGE B3 Robles Lana said for his part.

“That is why this version you’re about to see now, there have been changes made. We edited it again, shot some new scenes, and I am really excited for you to watch this one because I was stunned by the quality of the film,” the award-winning director of “Die Beautiful” added.

“Ang Mananaggal sa Unit 23B” is produced by The Ideafirst Company Inc., and also stars Cholo Barretto and QCinema Best Supporting Actress Vangie Labalan.

LU

I HAD written this piece when the summer season officially began. I am sure everybody has taken a summer trip by now or has one planned before the season ends. Some prefer to hit the road in the summertime to enjoy the view along the way. Before the hot temperatures leave and school starts again, I rounded up a few road trip destinations you should definitely check out.

Orange County Known for its well-heeled residents and high prices, it is a favorite summer spot for couples. If you want to take a break from the busy Santa Monica pier, stroll down the string of uncrowded beaches in Orange County and get some serious R&R. The beaches (and the waves) are definitely the main draws. The Pelican Hill is a great place if you are planning a family trip but if you are thinking more of a romantic sunset by the beach between you and your love, the Montage Laguna Beach is a great choice. It offers an excellent spa, impeccable grounds, and beautiful rooms with breathtaking views.

Just a quick tip: if you take the Santa Ana Freeway you would likely get there faster but if you’ve got some time to spare, Cabrillo Highway is the most scenic. Along the way you’ll see gorgeous beaches and rolling hills.

Encinitas Summer is here, and the waves are calling! Voted as the no. 3 surf spot town in the U.S. by Surfer Magazine, Encinitas is looking so darn good this time of the year. There’s a good spot to drop your surfers’ board called, Cardiff Reef. But it’s not all water sports. Bikers can cycle through the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation while golfers can hit Encinitas Ranch, and gamblers (or horse-lovers)

can spend the day at Del Mar racetrack — a short 10-minute drive away.

Santa Barbara Want to escape the fast life but don’t want to fly? Drive about two hours from LA and be transported to “Mediterra n e a n - e s q u e ” t o w n w i t h Mission-style buildings, pretty storefronts, art galleries, and quaint restaurants along the tree-lined streets. One of the most popular activities is shopping along State Street and at Paseo Nuevo, which boast some of the best stores in the region.

San Diego Balboa Park, Salk Institute, the old footbridges — these are just a few of the spots you can check out when you drive to San Diego this summer. I love that San Diego is not that far from LA and also not as different (in a good way). It’s like a more conservative version of Los Angeles.

There’s a wide range of things to do and places to go; from beaches to restaurants and bars, San Diego has all of them. You can watch the hang gliders over the La Jolla cliffs, check out some old ships, or eat Mexican food. You can also visit one of America’s most haunted houses.

Big Bear When it’s 100 degrees in

Health@Heart

Aspirin: Anti-cancer?

PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS DOES aspirin protect us against cancer?

Yes, according to clinical studies conducted on patients taking daily aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid) for conditions like arthritis, etc., or among heart patients taking aspirin to thin their blood to prevent blood clots and blockages in the coronary (heart) arteries. The findings show that those taking daily dose of aspirin (as low as 81 mg a day) have almost 43 percent lesser risk in developing pancreatic cancer, compared to those who do not take aspirin daily. More investigation is underway to find out the explanation for this apparent link, and also if aspirin similarly protects us against colon cancer, other malignancies and against other conditions. Indeed, our longtime household friend, aspirin, so commonly simple and inexpensive medication for the usual headaches and pains, is truly an amazing wonder drug.

How does wine protect our heart?

Wine, more especially the red variety, contains a chemical called Resveratrol, which has been found to be cardio-protective, among other benefi ts of moderate and disciplined drinking. The recommended “dose” is one to two glasses of red wine with dinner. Exactly what mechanism is at play to protect the heart when Resveratrol enters our circulation is not totally clear, but clinical investigations have shown that red wine is good for our health.

The one particular red wine that is supposed to contain the highest level of Resveratrol is Pinot Noir, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon. The caveat is, of course, moderation and discipline.

What is the cause of stomach ulcers?

In the past, the medical community thought that stomach ulcers were caused by hyperacidity (high acid content in the stomach), by eating spicy food, alcohol ingestion, or even by prolonged hunger.

This was what physicians and other healthcare personnel were taught, and the prevailing scientific opinion at the time. Today,

we know better. The cause of majority of stomach ulcers is an infection, caused by H. pylori bug. When the researcher who discovered this initially presented his theory and findings to the world medical community, he was scorned and literally laughed at…until various independent and extensive laboratory and clinical studies proved him right. He became a hero who had revolutionized the treatment of gastric ulcers, transforming this disease entity from a surgical illness to a medical condition manageable by pills, instead of by a knife in the operating room.

Why is the combination of viagra and nitrates fatal?

Viagra (Sildenafil citrate) is the very effective “anti-impotent” pill prescribed for male erectile dysfunction, whose chemical action allows the veins in the penis to dilate and fill with more blood to cause engorgement and erection, enabling the individual to successful penetration and intercourse. Nitrates are heart medications that also dilate blood vessels (arteries and veins in the heart and all over the body). When the blood vessels in the body are dilated “too much” (as the combination of Viagra and nitrates will do), the blood pressure of the person falls very low, and uncontrollably leads to shock, and death in some patients. Viagra is a very safe drug to take, as the millions and millions of men taking it could attest, as long as it is taken under the supervision of a physician and not taken by heart patients who are on medications that contain nitrates.

Are there medications without side effects?

No, there is no medication, not even vitamins or aspirin,that are totally devoid of potential side-effects, good or bad. This is the reason why we do not recommend (and are very much against) self-medication, even with over-the-counter drugs.

Do we really need sleep?

Many times, we hear people (young and old) claiming that they do not need sleep, or that an hour or two was enough sleep for them. It is unhealthy not to have adequate sleep.

While there is no magic number, having at least 8 hours of a restful sleep is considered good for the body. This brief “hibernation” gives our body

LA, head out — rather, drive — two hours out of LA and find yourself cooling down at Big Bear. It’s known for snow. But in the summer, outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, or hanging out under a pine tree with a picnic basket will make your trip up worthwhile. They say the food’s good too. Try their chicken pot pie and brown sugar glazed bacon, and wash it down at Nottingham’s Tavern afterwards. This is Life!

While LA has so much to offer when it comes to top-notch restaurants, museums, wonderful beaches and a lively nightlife scene, it’s nice to pack your bags and try a drive-to-town adventure sometimes.

So for those who are in town visiting or just want to get away from the business — that is LA — try these amazing road trip destinations that are just a short drive away. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces soldout fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary allnatural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

time to recharge and repair itself, and boost our immune system. With inadequate sleep, our body functions less than optimal, our brain and other organs less effi cient, and our disposition a bit cloudy and irritable. Those who have enough restful sleep also feel and look better, and are more pleasant, positive and productive. On the other hand, sleeping more than 10 hours daily (except for babies and young children) does not confer extra benefits, and might even make one lazier and more sluggish.

Why does blood not clot inside our body?

This is one of the wonders of our body, which is replete with various multi-layer defensive mechanisms (and offensive ones against bacteria, viruses and other intruders or potential diseases or injuries), mediated by chemical reactions within us, all aimed at protecting us and keeping us healthier by constantly maintaining homeostasis (physiologic balance within our body). Blood circulating in our arteries and veins does not clot because we have natural built-in anticoagulant (anticlot) substances produced by our body. Also, the smoothness of the endothelium (lining of the inner wall of the blood vessels), which contains negatively charged protein, repels the clotting factors and platelets to maintain the fluidity of blood.

These chemicals keep our blood “just right,” not too thin for us to have spontaneous bleeding and not too thick to produce clotting and blockages in our blood vessels. Our lifestyle (including smoking or medications we take) could adversely affect this homeostasis and throw it helterskelter. When this homeostasis is off-balance, an unphysiologic condition ensues and an ailment (DIS-ease) develops. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com

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

EntErtainmEnt

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUgUSt 12-15, 2017

B

From int’l triumphs ‘Hamog’ goes to ‘Pista’

by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net

THE only Filipino movie thus far that has competed in two International Federation of Film Producers Associations-regulated awards is Cinema One Originals’ “Hamog.”

FIAPF is an organization of the world’s leading audiovisual production countries and A-list award giving bodies, where Hamog won two major prizes. Finally coming home, the critically acclaimed Ralston Jover film will run as one of the featured movies of the upcoming Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (PPP) festival from August 16 to 22.

Premiering at the Cinema One Originals festival and competition in November 2015, Hamog’s producers fielded the movie to the Shanghai International Film Festival in June of the following year. While in competition, it caught the attention of the Moscow International Film Festival, which in turn invited the team to join them in Russia.

“Our producer [Cinema One’s AFTER ENTERING THE US IN THE BACKSEAT OF A MINIVAN, PINA’S NEXT HURDLE WAS HOW TO LEGALIZE HER STATUS. Pina (center) entered the U.S. in 2001 through the Canadian border, while seated in the back seat of a minivan. Border patrol asked the driver a few questions, but never spoke with Ronald Arguelles] said then we Pina, and let them pass through. Pina was petitioned by an employer, and eventually married her U.S. citizen husband, John (left), who also petitioned had to back out from the Moscow her. Both cases were denied based on the way she entered the U.S. Although she consulted with Attorney Gurfinkel several times, she retained other Film Festival offer because the attorneys, and her case was denied. She finally retained Attorney Michael Gurfinkel, who was able to obtain her green card through “provisional Shanghai Film Fest was our main waiver.” Watch how Attorney Gurfinkel came to the rescue, and help Pina achieve her American dream, on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” priority. After all, we approached – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising Supplement) them and fielded our movie. But Moscow kept following up with us, eager for the film to be included in their competition. Long story short, we ended up joining the two A-list festivals only weeks’ apart,” Jover happily recalled his unbelievable experience.

Jover and the rest of the cast PINA entered the U.S. in Janu- to the other lawyers. The reason zen Pinoy” –– on Sunday 6:15 and crew were rewarded indeed ary 2001 after she was “waved Pina was reluctant to retain Atty. p.m. PST/EST (9:15 p.m. EST thru for jumping continents, for Hamog through” as a passenger in a Gurfinkel was because she was select Cable/Satellite providers). earned the Outstanding Artistic minivan at the Canadian Border in under the impression that he was (Advertising Supplement) Achievement Award for its director Buffalo, New York. It was an easy too “expensive.”

However, Pina’s long journey entry. Shortly after, she found a job, and then she met the man to acquiring her green card, made of her dreams. Next step was to her realize with her husband get her green card. But that was John, that one gets what they pay for. For in the end, even if they not easy.

It was difficult to apply for took Atty. Gurfinkel’s “recipe” “adjustment of status” because to another lawyer, the outcome Pina was “not inspected” at the did not work. The whole process still requires thorough research, border.

The three lawyers that Pina analysis and attention to detail in consulted with were not able the final presentation — someto do anything about her case, thing the Law Offices of Michael saying it was difficult or they Gurfinkel was able to accomplish, tried and the case was denied. In enabling her to obtain her green between consultations with the card.

Watch and learn the differencother lawyers, Pina consulted with the Law Offices of Michael es between Provisional Waiver, Gurfinkel three other times, tak- Wave-Through, and Inspection, ing Atty. Gurfinkel’s strategies on a brand-new episode of “Citi-

Pina’s US entry via Canada after a ‘wave through’ 16 years later, she still had to ‘wade through’ 4 lawyers to get her green card

Endless talents sure to shine in ‘Little Big Shots PH’ Billy Crawford takes on Steve Harvey’s role in local version

CHARMING, witty and extraordinarily talented children aged two to 12 years old will surely capture viewers’ hearts beginning tonight in the local version of the international kiddie talent-talk show “Little Big Shots.”

Hosted by “It’s Showtime” regular Billy Crawford, who himself was a child wonder of Philippine show business, the newest TV fare celebrates the most brilliant children across the country, around the globe and even from the world wide web, whose skills go beyond singing and dancing.

Besides showing what the kids can do, the show also spotlights their big personalities as they express themselves through spontaneous banter.

“It’s my first time to host a talent show where I am the only person from showbiz because I usually work with people who are already big shots. But here, you’d be surprised by how the kids carry the show, and I’m here to let their personalities shine. All I can say is the kids featured on the show are very exceptional and they really deserve to be called little big shots,” Crawford shared at the show’s press preview this week.

“I grew up performing, and I know how rewarding it is to entertain people. But in ‘Little Big Shots,’ you wouldn’t expect what the kids can do – their wit, and they are all very charming,” he added.

Little Big Shots is an original American production created by popular talk show hosts Ellen Degeneres and Steve Harvey.

Harvey—of the Miss Universe 2015 fame—has hosted two successful seasons on NBC. It will be remembered that “The Voice Kids Philippines 2015” winner Elha Nympha was presented in the US show early this year, and with a local version about to premiere in these shores, there is no way Little Big Shots Philippines is going to run out amazing little ones to feature. (ManilaTimes.net) Billy Crawford

ABS-CBN photo

Dingdong Dantes without...

PAGE B1 “Peanuts, manggang hilaw, kamias and fishballs.”

What medicines (and vitamins) do you take?

“Multivitamins and lots of fruits.”

How many pillows do you sleep with?

“Three.”

Favorite sleepwear?

“Boxer shorts and white shirt.

Do you snore or sleepwalk?

“I can’t confirm that.”

Last thing that you do before you go to sleep?

“I kiss my girls and pray.”

First thing that you do as soon as you wake up?

“Same. I kiss my girls and pray.”

How do you cope with stress?

“I kill it in my mind.”

Favorite hideaway?

“Inside a helmet.”

“Hamog” is a story of four street children forced to a life of crime to survive poverty in the busy streets of Manila.

at the 19th Shanghai International Film Festival, and the Silver St. George Best Actress Award for Teri Malvar at the 2016 Moscow International Film Festival. The win effectively made Malvar the Philippines’ youngest A-list film festival best actress, with a bonus from the New York Asian Film Festival, which also gave her the Rising Star Award for her performance in the movie.

“Hamog” is a story of four street children forced to a life of crime to survive poverty in the busy streets of Manila. Two unexpected events disrupt their “daily routine” bringing more tragedy and challenges in their very young lives.

“The episode of Rashid (Zaijan Jaranilla) is about a Muslim boy who spent a day looking for money so he could bury his Christian friend. The urgency comes from his faith, as Muslims believe that once a person dies his body should be buried within 24 hours,” Jover said.

“Jinky (Therese Malvar), meanwhile, is caught by a taxi driver

she and her friends had victimized. Although the driver tried to surrender her to the authorities, she wasn’t able to reunite with her family since it is dysfunctional. She then ended up becoming the taxi driver’s helper, hoping life would turn around somehow, only to be disappointed.”

Excited for “Hamog’s” commercial run, Jover is grateful to the PPP for giving the film a chance to be shown to a wider audience.

“We’re very thankful to the festival because they are one of the few endeavors that provide the opportunity for independent films to be shown to the mainstream audience. Especially at this time where we can see that the Filipino is ready to watch all kinds of films,” he reflected. “Nowadays, it’s no longer about indie versus mainstream anymore. It is the story—a good story—the audience roots for.”

Also part of the cast are Sam Quitania, Bor Lentejas, OJ Mariano, Anna Luna, Mike Liwag, Lou Veloso and Kyline Alcantara.

B august 12-15, 2017 • La WEEKEND asIaN JOuRNaL

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

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 12-15, 2017

COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Major changes in immigration law proposed by the Senate IF you’ve watched the news, browsed a media website, perused a newspaper, or scrolled through social media newsfeeds in the last few days, chances are that you’ve heard about a new immigration bill recently introduced to Congress. If so far you haven’t paid too much attention to the proposals and nuances of the bill, it is now the time to listen and take appropriate action as the potential legislation could seriously impact you and your noncitizen friends and family members.

On Wednesday, August 2, President Trump appeared at the White House along with two U.S. senators to reveal the “Reforming American Immigration for a Strong Economy Act,” or the “RAISE” Act. The Act, which is aimed at reducing legal immigration by 50 percent within the next ten years, proposes significant cuts to family-based immigration and the refugee program. In addition, the Act seeks to implement a skills/ merit-based point system for employment-based immigration.

In regards to family-based immigration, the proposed legislation eliminates all family-based immigration categories except for spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Currently, as the law stands, U.S. citizens may petition their noncitizen spouses, parents (if the U.S. citizen is over 21 years old), and children under the age of 21 as immediate relatives, providing the noncitizen with immediate visa availability.

U.S. citizens may also petition their siblings as “non-immediate” relatives who are subject to limited visa availability. The law also currently allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition their adult children. However, under the proposed regulation, adult U.S. citizens would no longer be able to petition their noncitizen parents or siblings for a green card.

Further, U.S. citizens would no longer be permitted to petition their adult children and lawful permanent residents would no

Your Immigration Solution BRITTANY MILLIASSEAU AND NANCY MILLER longer be permitted to sponsor their unmarried adult children.

It should be noted that while the bill restricts adult U.S. citizens from petitioning their parents, it does create a nonimmigrant classification for parents of U.S. citizens which is rather restrictive.

Parents of U.S. citizens would not be eligible for work authorization or public benefits and their adult child would be responsible for arranging for health insurance coverage prior to visa issuance.

While it is uncertain whether this proposed legislation will actually become law, the clock on various avenues for immigrating family is ticking. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who want to bring their adult children, siblings, or parents to the U.S. should act now. Those who are eligible to naturalize should do so in order to be able to bring family members here while they still can. Don’t delay — consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney as soon as possible to discuss family-based immigration options which may no longer be available in the near future.

The allocation of the 140,000 employment-based green cards issued annually was also addressed in the recent immigration bill. If the RAISE Act passes, the current employment-based immigration categories will be replaced with a skills/merit-based system whereby applications will be evaluated and ranked pursuant to a number of factors including English language proficiency, age, educational level, investment in a commercial U.S. enterprise, and achievements such as an Olympic medal or Nobel Prize. If you believe you may be qualified for an employment-

based petition such as a petition for an individual of extraordinary ability, multinational manager/ executive, or an outstanding professor/researcher, you or your employer should consult with competent immigration counsel to discuss your options before a highly competitive meritbased system is implemented.

Some additional changes outlined in the RAISE Act include the total elimination of the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, or the “green card lottery” which currently awards 50,000 green cards to noncitizens from countries with low rates of immigration, as well as the reduction of the number of refugees admitted to the U.S. to 50,000 per year.

If the RAISE Act is passed by Congress, the president has indicated he will sign it. It will become law. If it does not, the bill gives a clear indication of what Congress intends for the future of immigration in the United States.

In the past, when immigration laws changed, the old law was “grandfathered” to allow those who had filed before the change to still take advantage of the old law. There is no reason to believe that will not still be the case.

But to be grandfathered, you have to have an existing petition.

Anyone who has any interest in reuniting their family in the U.S. or who is thinking of immigrating through employment should contact a knowledgeable and experienced immigration lawyer now. The clock is ticking. ■ *** 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) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com.

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

Website: www.rreeves.com.

*** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)

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C AUGUST 12-15, 2017 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Community Journal

Can’t decide if filing bankruptcy is the right move for you?

Minding Your Finances atty. Raymond Bulaon DECIDING if bankruptcy is right for you is not always easy.

But sometimes, the hole you’ve dug up is too deep that there is no other way out. Bill collectors are harassing you. Maybe they’re already threatening to take you to court, garnish your wages and take everything you’ve got. Maybe you can’t even sleep at night asking yourself: “What should I do to solve my debt problems and protect myself and my family?”

The answer, of course, doesn’t always come quick and easy.

Most people will postpone making a decision until they have their backs into a corner and they feel like the walls are caving in. If you are in this situation, I know how you feel. At what point does it make sense to file bankruptcy and get legal protection? If your financial situation is causing you a lot of stress and worries, perhaps bankruptcy is the best solution for your mental well-being if you’re already doing your best but it’s still not good enough.

Of course, bankruptcy is not always the best solution. Not everyone who faces debt problems should file for bankruptcy because not all cases are the same. But when advisable for your situation, it could be exactly what you need to put your problems behind you and move on.

Filing bankruptcy immediately stops collection actions against you and your property. That

means no more collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments and no more sheriffs at your door. For the first time in a long while, you can finally breathe better and feel like a human being again.

In Chapter 7, credit card debts, personal loans, medical bills and other unsecured debts are erased completely. Although in Chapter 7, non-exempt property can be taken to pay creditors, this is very rare because most Chapter 7 cases are no-asset cases. If your case is such, you lose nothing but your debts and you get to keep your home, automobile, bank accounts, retirement plans, etc.

In Chapter 13, you agree to repay all or a portion of your debts over three to five years. In most cases, you can cut your current credit card payments in half or even more, depending on your income and expenses. So, rather than struggling to pay your debts and the ridiculous interest rates that the credit card companies are charging you, you can be out of debt in a much shorter period of time while paying zero percent interest on your credit cards. Did you know that most people will never get out of debt with the 22-29 percent interest that they are paying on their credit cards?

And after you’ve paid your debts, most likely you’ve paid your creditors more than twice your debt amounts in interest alone. Could this be the reason why a lot of people retire broke?

Instead of saving the money for their retirement, they give the money to their bank and their creditors in interest charges.

If you are facing possible loss of your home through foreclosure, you need to find out what your legal options are under Chapter 13. If you have fallen behind on your mortgage payments and can’t afford to pay what the bank is asking you to bring your account current, Chapter 13 will allow you to pay back the amount in arrears for as long as 5 years.

Foreclosure will stop on the day that your case is filed and you can start making your regular mortgage payments without worrying about losing your home.

If you need to apply for a loan modification to lower your mortgage payments, you can also do this while you are in Chapter 13.

If you are in debt and feel like there is no way out, I would like to help you figure out your best solution. For a free consultation, call my office at Toll-Free 1-866-4777772 so I can carefully evaluate your case. I have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. n

ReveRend Rodel G. BalaGtas WE have another fascinating Gospel Reading (Matthew 14:36) this Sunday. As the disciples were on a boat in the midst of fierce winds and waves, Jesus showed himself to them by walking on the water.

Then the disciples shouted saying, “It is a ghost!” Jesus responded, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”

The story continues with the classic scene of Peter asking Jesus, “Lord, if it is you, command

me to come to you on the water.” To which Jesus responded, “Come!” So Peter began walking toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and waves he was frightened and shouted, “Lord, save!” Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and caught Peter, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”

Many times we find ourselves in the shoes of Peter. Certainly, we trust the Lord. In fact, we always say that the Lord provides and he takes care of us. But when we start to feel the waves of problems, responsibilities, and insecurities in our lives, we begin to sink in the ocean of life like Peter. We start to drown in our fears and anxieties. It’s then

Benefits and drawbacks of IRS appeals AFTER an audit of your tax returns by the IRS, pay if you are happy with the results or don’t want to extend the agony of dealing with the IRS. Appeal if you are not happy or feel that you have not been treated fairly.

Let’s explore the benefits & drawbacks of going to the Appeals.

Benefits Of Going To Appeals: 1. The Appeals Officer is neutral.

2. The appeals process is quicker.

3. The Appeals Officer is independent and does not communicate with auditors.

4. The Appeals Officer has a mission: to settle tax controversies without litigation.

5. The officer is more openminded to the merits of your case to avoid hazards of litigation.

6. You no longer have to deal with a combative agent.

7. It may force an unreasonable agent to rethink a position if you signify your plans to appeal.

8. The appeals process gives you more time to find out about the IRS’ position.

9. Tax, penalties, and interests need not be paid until the case is settled.

10. It buys you time to decide on which trial forum you eventually want to use - the Tax Court,

***

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

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On trusting God’s power

To Live With Faith

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

that God reminds us to have faith in him and not be afraid.

Many factors contribute to our fears and anxieties. We’re afraid of not meeting people’s expectations, of failures and the uncertainties of tomorrow.

We’re scared of getting sick, getting old, and yes, dying. We’re also afraid of the horrific news we hear on the television and the social media, like the threat of nuclear war and the continuous terrorism in the world.

Of course, we’re human, and it’s natural for us to be fearful. Who’s not scared of a strike of a nuclear bomb? But that’s when we turn to Jesus and ask him to save us from all these fears, threats, and

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FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS

( Mt Carmel, Mt Beatitude, Mt.Tabor, Cana, Capernum, Nazareth, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem Qumran, Masada, Jericho )

Dec 3 to 14, 2017

Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Alvin Cachola

Tax Tips victoR sy, cPa, mBa

Court of Federal Claims, or US District Court.

Drawbacks Of Going To Appeals: 1. The Appeals Officer may raise new issues that were overlooked, ignored, or deemed irrelevant by the prior agent. If there are issues that are critical against you, stay away from appeals.

2. Interest accrues as your case drags on.

3. The strain of an unsettled IRS audit may be too heavy for you.

4. There are additional fees for representation by an attorney, CPA, or enrolled agent.

5. Non-docketed settlements with Appeals Office have less finality than docketed tax court rulings.

My Suggestion: Go to appeals.

In my 50 years of dealing with government agencies, it is by far the best forum to settle tax controversies. The Appeals Officer is a

mediator, not an opponent. Compared to office auditors and field revenue agents, Appeals Officers are a welcome sight. It is quite challenging sometimes to deal with young or overzealous examiners who wear police badges to enforce the law. It is quite expensive to litigate in tax court. I have found Appeals Officers (usually CPAs or attorneys with master’s degrees) to be reasonable, level headed, and easier to deal with.

They have more understanding, wider perspective on running a business. They understand how we survive, how we make ends meet. They are just more sensible to deal with in putting your case to rest. Hopefully, I sounded convincing enough. Good luck! n *** 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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‘My husband beat Me’

Estate Corner

Now it is possible to apply for asylum

Atty. BriAn Lerner QUESTION: My husband beat me and I was afraid for my life, so I escaped to the United States. Can I apply for something so I do not have to go back to my home country?

Answer: Yes, it may be possible to apply for gender-based asylum. This is not your normal ‘political’ asylum, but rather, one based on ‘gender-based’ immigration. This would be considered a social group.

Question: What is a ‘social group’ and how to define it?

Answer: There are several grounds in which you can apply for asylum. One of the grounds is if you are being persecuted because you are in a ‘social group’.

You have to define an immutability characteristic. This is where a person cannot change OR it is

so fundamental that the person should not have to change. The social group can be argued differently depending on the particular situation in which you are finding yourself.

For example, in the small amount of information you have given here, the social group might be married persons who are beaten by their spouses and cannot get any governmental help. It is not easy to define a social group and certain case law actually makes it more difficult.

However, do not despair as it can certainly be done.

Question: What if I know somebody in question is not married, but is still being beaten by her husband and has escaped to the U.S. Can she apply for this kind of asylum?

Answer: In this case, there is

actually an unpublished case that allows this to go forward. However, even without this case, it is possible. You will have to define the social group differently. In this case, I can see some groups similarly referencing women that are being beaten, but are in ‘common law’ marriages and/or who have kids that have suffered, etc.

Question: What if my country has laws against domestic violence? Will I not be able to apply?

Answer: Even if your home country has laws against domestic violence, you can show that the government is unable or unwilling to enforce it. This is purely a factual endeavor and must be elaborated on and built up during the trial.

Question: Are there other issues that I should be aware of

u PAGE C3

Havan�, Cub� May 22 to 29, 2018

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

May 23, 2018 (Wednesday - Day 2) Havana, Cuba Our day will begin with mass at the Cathedral of Havana located in the center of Old Havana. After mass, proceed for a city tour of Old Havana with an experienced local tour guide. The tour will take 4 DEC-Day 2 - (Mon) - Arrive at Ben Gurion airport Tel-Aviv/Tiberias place on foot and you will visit all the squares of Old Havana. Take in the astonishing beauty of the After you have finished Immigration, collect Luggage then Meet our guide and driver. Transfer to Tiberias , Dinner /overnight Gai Beach Hotel historical buildings, sculptures, and monuments. After lunch you will have free time to bargain at the 5 DEC-Day 3 - (Tues) Cesarea /Haifa San Jose Craft Market. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 3 DEC-Day 1 - (Sun) LAX/TLV On board meals are served

There was a certain man in Caesarea” Drive north to the sparkling port city of Haifa, viewing Caesarea en route, the city built by Herod. In Haifa, we will ascend Mt. Carmel; home of the two prophets Elijah and Elisha, Visit the Stella Maris Church celebrate Holy Mass in the main Altar, after enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean, continue to Tiberias for dinner and overnight. Gai Beach Hotel (BB,D)

May 24, 2018 (Thursday – Day 3) Havana, Cuba This morning, we will visit the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. This religious complex is the most extensive of those surviving in Old Havana. Here you will attend mass. After mass, you will meet with the 6 DEC-Day 4 - (Wed) - Tiberias/ Cana/ Nazareth Holy Eucharist at the Church of annunciation “And Mary said, Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your nuns and assist with projects of the day. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the evening you will assist word” We head to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed the first miracle – changing water into wine at the wedding feast. Here, we’ll a Cuban cultural demonstration. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) invite couples to renew their marriage vows. Continue to Nazareth, Celebrate Holy Eucharist at the Church of Annunciation, visit St Joseph workshop. We return to Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)

07 Dec-Day 5 - (Thurs) Mt Tabor/Mt Beatitude/Capernum/ Sea of Galilee/Tabgha

We drive to Mount Tabor, celebrate Holy Eucharist at the church of Transfiguration, Visit Mt. of Beatitudes the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)

May 25, 2018 (Friday – Day 4) Havana, Cuba You will have mass at the Convent and Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem. After mass, you will continue to assist the nuns. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. This evening in Havana, we will plan an exciting tour of the historical complex of Castillo del and La Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana. If the timing and weather conditions permitted, you will witness the special nightly cannon at the fortress. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

08 DEC-Day 6 - (FRI)-Jordan valley/Jericho/Bethany/Jerusalem

May 26, 2018 (Saturday – Day 5) Havana, Cuba Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. After, you will visit the Abel Santamaria School for the blind, located on the grounds of an old military base. The school aims to integrate the children into mainstream schools as soon as the child is ready through an outreach program which continues to support children at their secondary schools. You will spend time meeting the students 09 DEC-Day 7 - (Sat) - Jerusalem (old City) - Via Dolorosa and teachers. Lunch is included at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Cintio Vitier Community Project Center, where arts Holy Sepulcher Church “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place of a skull, which was called in Hebrew Golgotha” Enter the old city of Jerusalem, Sing a hymn in the Church of St Anne and view the pool of Bethesda. Visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Programs of all types including painting, ceramic and dance hosted. You will learn about this community project and hear from Lithostrotos, where the soldiers played the Game of Kings, and Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) to the the director of the program, Pedro Pulido. End your day with a panoramic drive through Modern Havana riding in old classic cars holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the tomb of Our Lord. This afternoon drive to Mount Zion, from the 1950’s. Be sure to have your camera ready for this unique experience. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) Drive the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest inhabited city in the world. View the Mount of temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert. Visit the ancient ruins of the wall. Drive through Wadi Welt to view St George’s Monastery. Continue to Bethany celebrate Holy Eucharist, and then visit the tomb of Lazarus. Arrive in Mount Scopus; enjoy the first view of Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at Notre DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)

to visit the upper room, revered as the site of the last supper. Then survey the Dormition Abbey’s, St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME Vatican Hotel (BB.D)

10 DEC-Day 8 - (SUN) - Mount of Olives/Gethesemane/Bethlehem/New City

Holy Eucharist celebration at the Church of all nations Main altar Arrive at the Mount of Olives and enjoy the beautiful view of Jerusalem. Visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit Church”God wept “& walk the Palm Sunday road to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of all Nations. This Afternoon drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name the whole world recognizes ,visit the Church of Nativity, the manger, Church of St Catherine, The Grotto of St Jerome, and the shepherds fields. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB ,D).

May 27, 2018 (Sunday – Day 6) Havana – Las Terrazas – Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Havana. Then you will be transferred to Las Terrazas for a tour of the community. Visit the neighborhoods, their schools, artists and community projects in the area. You will then continue to Vinales. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check in and rest. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

May 28, 2018 (Monday – Day 7) Vinales Valley Start the morning off with mass at a local church in Vinales. Then you will have a sightseeing Visit the Western Wall , the only part of the Herodian temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. We drive to Dead tour. There is an opportunity to visit a Tobacco Farm and learn how to expertly roll a cigar. You will Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s also have the chance to visit an interesting site called the Prehistoric Wall and to take a Boat Ride fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem Overnight Notre Dame Vatican Hotel (BB,D) through underground caves known as The Indian Caves. Then visit Finca Agroecolgica El Paraiso 12 DEC-Day10 - (TUE) Jerusalem New City where you will have lunch. After you will visit the gardens with the breath-taking views. Return to the hotel where you will have Return to the new City, Including the Temple Model to see a scale model of Jerusalem as it was during the time of Jesus. Here we will have a dinner. (Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 11 DEC-Day 9 - ( MON) - Jerusalem/Dead Sea/Qumran/Masada

better understanding between old and New Jerusalem. Next to Ein Karem, birthplace of St John the Baptist, visit the Visitation church where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat Overnight NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)

13 Dec-Day 11 - (WED) Jerusalem/TLV/LAX

Breakfast rest of the morning Free time early PM dinner has to check out from the hotel, around 8:30 PM flight from TLV/ LAX in the 13 Dec flight depart TLV at 1:00 Am Dec 14,2017 ( end of Service )

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

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

Community Journal

Should you sign that severance agreement from your employer?

A SEPARATION package or a severance agreement is a contract between an employer and an employee who is about to leave the employer’s employment. In a typical severance agreement, the employer agrees to give the employee additional compensation (the severance pay) in exchange for the outgoing employee’s agreement not to sue the employer for any employment-related claims such as wrongful termination or back wages.

Employers are not required by law to provide any severance pay to their employees, regardless of whether the end of employment is due to a resignation, a firing, or a layoff.

The employer is not obligated to provide a severance pay even if it is firing a long-time employee.

However, some employers offer formal severance pay plans that provide conditions for eligibility. An employer, for example, may provide severance pay to long-time employees in the event of a layoff. This means severance pay is a matter of agreement between the employer and the employee.

A severance pay is usually calculated according to a specific formula, often based on the employee’s length of service. An employee may try to negotiate for more severance pay than what is being offered, especially if the employee has been with the company for many years, has an excellent service record, or has provided

AmericAn DreAm Allison Aquino-silvA, Esq THE Trump Administration has in no uncertain terms indicated that it wishes to combat illegal immigration by removing as many individuals unlawfully residing in the United States as possible. The immigration courts recently released information confirming that the rate of removal orders, voluntary departures, and final decisions for the first six months of the Trump Administration has indeed increased rather dramatically.

Between February 1, 2017 to July 31, 2017, the total orders of removal has increased by 27.8% over the same time period as 2016 to 49,983 individuals. As well, the total orders of removal and voluntary departures has increased by 30.9% to 57,069 individuals. The total number of final decisions has also increased by 14.5%, affecting a total number of 73,127 people.

Given this concerted effort to remove unlawful individuals from the US, it may likely wise for individuals who have any means toward seeking legalization to do so. One such possible path is the provisional waiver program that was implemented by former President Obama. The provisional waiver program streamlines the waiver application process so that the separation of family members is minimized.

Individuals who can benefit from the provisional waiver program are those who are eligible

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. increased value to the employer’s business.

Most importantly, before signing or negotiating for a severance agreement, an employee should keep in mind the following things: Has the employer paid all hours worked by the employee, including overtime?

Has the employer paid the employee for meal or rest breaks that were not provided to the employee?

If the employee is entitled to vacation, has the unused vacation been paid?

If the employee is being terminated, what is the reason for the termination? If an employer fired an employee for a discriminatory or retaliatory reason, the employee may be entitled to damages.

Does the severance agreement protect the employee from any potential claims for wrongful behavior or harassment that might be brought by the employer?

So, should you sign a severance package? It depends. If you had been paid correctly for all hours worked, if you received all your meal and rest periods, and if you have no issues regarding your termination, then a severance package is a generous and

welcome benefit.

But if you were not paid all your hours worked, including overtime, and you were not provided meal and rest periods, or the termination was wrongful – then a severance package may be a way for your employer to stop you from asserting your rights and seeking remedies in court. If this is the case, it would be smarter to consult with a knowledgeable employment attorney before you sign anything.

Lastly, employers must immediately pay all compensation due to the employee at the time of termination. It is illegal for employers to threaten to not pay terminated employees for work already performed unless the employees sign some kind of “release.” A release signed by the employee under these circumstances may not be enforced. n *** 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 or our Facebook page Joe Sayas Law. [C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully recovered wages and other monetary damages for thousands of employees and consumers. He was named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently selected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is the recipient of PABA’s Community Champion Award for 2016.]

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Provisional waiver still a viable solution

for permanent residency, such as through a family member or job, but are not eligible for adjustment of status. Individuals in this situation are primarily those who entered the US without inspection, as a C-1 crewman, D1 in transit, fiancé who did not marry the petitioning fiancé, or someone who can no longer prove how they lawfully entered the US. In addition, individuals who are unable to adjust status in the US are those whose green card application is based on a family-based petition in one of the preference categories or an employment-based petition; is in the United States unlawfully; and is not grandfathered under former INA §245(i).

Individuals who are not eligible for adjustment of status can only apply for permanent residency by leaving the US and processing through the US Embassy overseas. The problem, however, is that most individuals will trigger a 3 or 10 year bar once they leave the US. Individuals who leave the US after having been unlawfully present in the US for more than180 days are subject to a 3 year bar. Individuals who leave the US after having been unlawfully present in the US for more than 1 year are subject to a 10 year bar.

The only way for an individual to obtain an immigrant visa and return to the US before the 3 or 10 years elapses is by being granted a waiver of inadmissibility for the unlawful presence. To be eligible to apply for an unlawful presence waiver, an individual must

have either a US citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent. Unfortunately, a child does not qualify. To be granted, an individual must prove that the US citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent would suffer extreme hardship if the individual were not allowed to return to the US before the applicable 3 or 10 years.

Under the provisional waiver program, individuals are allowed to apply for an unlawful presence waiver before leaving the US, thereby eliminating risk since they will know if the waiver is granted or denied. Only after the waiver is approved would the individual leave the US and go to the US Embassy for processing of the immigrant visa.

The reported average time that an individual is outside the US to process the immigrant visa is just 2 weeks.

Given the complexities of the waiver process, it is vital that individuals seek fully capable and knowledgeable legal counsel.

The provisional waiver program may be the solution to individuals who have been in limbo in finally finding peace and prosperity.

*** For further information, please schedule an appointment with an attorney at Aquino & Loew, Certified Immigration Law Specialists; (888) 797-1140 or (626) 7993089; info@aquinoloew.com. Please also visit Aquino & Loew at www.aquinoloew. com, connect with us on Facebook and Twitter, and read about us on Yelp. Aquino & Loew also handles family law and criminal matters. Providing Personalized Service Nationwide & Abroad Since 1996.

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Will incorporating a separate property business during marriage make it community property?

YOU own a successful business, as a sole proprietor, prior to marriage. You later meet the love of your life and decide to marry her. Years into the marriage, you decide to incorporate the business. A common question when the couple later divorces becomes 1) did your separate property business become community property by virtue of incorporating it during the marriage? 2) Was your separate property business “transmuted” to community property by incorporating it during the marriage?

No Community Property Presumption Family Code §760 defines “Community property” as “Except as otherwise provided by statute, all property, real or personal, wherever situated, acquired by a married person during the marriage while domiciled in this state is community property. However under Marriage of Koester, the Court held that the community does not “acquire” a separate property business simply because the business is incorporated during the marriage. The mere incorporation of a business operated by spouse is not a change in its character, for purposes of division of community estate following divorce.

In Koester, the Court stated that he incorporation simply effects a

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrSUA reyeS change in the legal form under which the business is conducted and property does not change its character merely because of a change in form or identity. Marriage of Koester (1999) 73 CA4th 1032, 1035, 1038, 87 CR2d 76, 79, 81. The Court in Koester also stated that “In contrast with the way title is taken when a married couple own residential property, the incorporation of a sole proprietorship business is typically done for reasons extrinsic to the marital relationship. To say ... that an asset was ‘acquired’ by the community ... because some aspect of corporate formation took place during the marriage is to elevate semantics over substance” No Transmutation Incorporation of a sole proprietorship business during the marriage can trigger a family code § 2640 tracing right of reimbursement only when it is also accompanied by an unambiguous express written transmu-

tation of the business to community property as required by Family Code § 852. Marriage of Koester, supra, 73 CA4th at 1036–1037, 87 CR2d at 79–80 & fn. 5. Under Family Code §852, a transmutation of real or personal property is not valid unless made in writing by an express declaration that is made, joined in, consented to, or accepted by the spouse whose interest in the property is adversely affected.

In Koester, the act of changing the legal form under which a business is conducted does not meet the requirements of family code § 852 for a valid transmutation. Marriage of Koester (1999) 73 CA4th 1032, 1037, 87 CR2d 76, 80 & fn. 5. Incorporation of a sole proprietorship business is typically done for reasons extrinsic to the marital relationship.

Although the mere act of incorporating a separate business during the marriage does not change the character of the business to community property, the community may still acquire an apportionment interest if the value of the business substantially appreciated during the marriage due to the labor and hard work of the managing spouse during the marriage. The apportionment calculation is done using the formula in the Pereira or Van

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 12-15, 2017

C

Preventing abandonment of your green card due to travel abroad A GREEN card holder can travel outside the US and return with some limitations. If a green card holder is outside the US for an extended period of time, he may be considered to have abandoned his permanent resident status. Brief travel (such as for a vacation) normally will not affect permanent resident status. However, abandonment of permanent resident status is a potential issue for green card holders who have to leave the US for an extended period of time (over 1 year) for one reason or another, such as to finish studies or work abroad. In such situations, how can a person avoid losing his green card?

If a person plans to be outside the US for an extended period of time (over 1 year), an application for a reentry permit must be filed. A reentry permit establishes that one did not intend to abandon his green card, and it allows one to apply for admission to the US after being outside the US for up to 2 years without having to obtain a returning resident visa. Reentry permits are normally valid for 2 years from the date of issuance. A permanent resident can re-apply for subsequent reentry permits. Each subsequent reentry permit would be valid for 2 years.

As aforementioned, if one is outside the US for an extended period of time without a reentry permit, he may be considered to have abandoned his green card. If a permanent resident has been outside the US for more than 1 year and attempts to re-enter the US, he may be referred to an Immigration Judge to determine whether he has abandoned his permanent resident status.

An application for reentry permit should be filed at least 60 days prior to the contemplated extended trip outside the US. While a person does not have to be present in the US at the time his reentry permit application is approved, it is important to file it with sufficient time prior to the trip to allow time to receive the biometrics notice after the application is filed, and have biometrics taken. An applicant must provide his biometrics while in the US. If an applicant leaves the US before biometrics are taken, the USCIS may deny the application.

What if a permanent resident has already left the US and either has 1) been outside the US

for over 1 year or 2) been outside the US for over 2 years with an expired reentry permit? The Department of State on its website advises to apply for a Returning Resident Visa. To qualify for a Returning Resident Visa, you must show a valid reason why your stay abroad was extended, and that the reason for the extended stay was beyond your control or for which you were not responsible.

Another (perhaps better) option would be to re-enter the US--if US customs denies admission due to abandonment of your green card, you will have an opportunity to argue before an Immigration Judge here in the US that you did not abandon permanent resident status.

Obtaining a green card often is a difficult process. For some, it takes many years. It is accordingly important to take all steps necessary to maintain permanent resident status once attained. If you plan to be away from the US for an extended period of time, or have been away from the US for an extended period of time without a reentry permit, or a reentry permit that has expired, it is recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney.n *** 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.

Now it is possible to...

PAGE C2t when trying to prove my case?

Answer: Internal relocation is an issue. It is important to clearly document and show that if the government is going after you, there is nowhere to hide. If it is an individual that is going after you, then you must show how he/ she will follow you.

Also, assuming you had to just pick up and go to escape the beatings, try to show loss of property, loss of livelihood, and whatever you left behind. Try to show that the persecutor has a broader reach than just the local place upon which you are living.

Question: Are there any other similar related issues whereby somebody can file for genderbased asylum?

Answer: Yes. An example would be child abuse. You would look for the social group, such as children are sold as property, or unable to leave of abusive parents, or sold as sex slaves. Another example might be forced relationships and/or forced marriages. Additionally, you can see if the particular persecution violates religious views or race issues. Other issues might be female genital mutilation, homosexuals, homosexual marriages

and transgenders. Thus, as you can see, there are many examples of gender-based asylum cases.n *** Atty. B r i a n D. Le r n e r h a s b e e n a n Immigration Attorney for nearly a quarter of a century. He is married to a Filipina and has helped thousands of Filipino families all over the country. In addition to his offices in Southern California in Long Beach and Carson, he has an office in Quezon City.

He is a certified specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law by the Legal Board of Specialization, California State Bar. The initial consultation is free. Call (562) 4950554 and/or send an e-mail to blerner@ californiaimmigration.us.

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Community Journal

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Client with bank account levy seeks Chapter 7 relief Client receives notice of default on house, tries Chapter 13 relief

CLIENT is 60 & wife is 58.

He issued his check to pay rent of $1200 but the check was dishonored for insufficient funds.

Landlord called him to tell him that his rent check bounced. Client was surprised that his check bounced because he had at least $5K in the checking account. He went to the bank and asked why his check bounced when he still had $5K in the account. Teller informed him that there was no money in his account because bank received a notice of levy from his judgment creditor for $11K and so the sheriff took all the money in his bank account.

Client explains that he had consolidated his credit card loans of about $30K through a business providing that service and he had been paying on monthly installments and was surprised to find out that his account was levied and all his money taken.

He said he only owed creditor $3K so how come the judgment is $11K? Well, if you add interest and attorney fees and some time, it $3K of debt can become $11K of judgment. It’s not unusual.

Can he get his $5K that was levied back? Yes he can, how? By filing a claim for exemption in the court that issued the judgment and levy, on the ground that the funds taken are necessary for his basic necessities. He must also attach a declaration and financial statement showing his gross and net income for the household vs. monthly living expenses and conclude that the funds taken are required for his basic necessities. He must file the claim in with the supporting documents, get a hearing date and time form the clerk of court, then serve the claim of exemption on the creditor and file in the proof of service to creditor. Creditor is given the opportunity to object to the claim of exemption and appear at the hearing. The hearing will be set at least 30 days after the claim of exemption is filed but the claim of exemption and all supporting documents must be filed within 10 days of the levy date.

If the judge agrees with client, judge will issue an order to have

Debt Relief

Atty. LAwrence yAng

the $5K returned to client. Client has also decided to file for Chapter 7 relief as he and wife still owe about $25K of credit card debt and he wants all of those discharged once and for all to avoid another levy or wage garnishment situation. If the judge denies the claim of exemption, then client has lost the $5K for good.

He doesn’t feel good losing the $5K because he only owed $3K and says it is unjust that he now owes $11K for a $3K debt.

Can he keep the $5K in Chapter 7 if the judge orders the refund? Yes. He can keep the $5K because in his case, he can exempt the entire 5K under 703.140(b)(5) of the California Code of Civil Procedure. So, with Chapter 7, he and his wife get a fresh start in life without the burden of any debt while keeping all their assets, all their retirement accounts, all their cards, and all their cash. No worries any more and they don’t have to keep paying installments on a consolidation through a business service that probably keeps the money in their pocket. That’s why client’s bank account was levied despite the consolidation because who knows where the installment payments are going. It’s not like a Chapter 13 where the court appointed trustee distributes the plan payments to all creditors and there is a court order that prohibits further collection efforts against the debtor while the Chapter 13 is still in effect.

Next client is 52. He doesn’t work. His wife makes about $88K a year as a registered nurse. They own a house but the mortgage has not been paid for 8 months.

Mortgage is $2500 a month so he owes about $20K in arrears.

He received by certified a notice of default with a recording date of June 27, 2017, informing him

that the bank has decided to commence foreclosure proceedings and that he has 90 days to pay the arrears in full plus all legal fees and penalties otherwise a foreclosure sale date will be set approximately 21 days after the 90 days expires. So client is worried that he may lose the house to foreclosure after September 27, 2017. Well, I think he should worry more about his wife asking him to explain why the mortgage is 8 months past due when she has been giving him her net income of $6K a month? That’s a perfectly valid and legitimate question to ask don’t you think so?

At any rate, client now needs to file for Chapter 13 to save his house from foreclosure. Chapter 13 will freeze the default at $20K and allow client to pay that off in 60 months, that’s about $340 a month. In addition, he has to resume the current mortgage payment a month after the case is filed. The foreclosure process stops immediately upon filing of the Chapter 13 case. I told him that it may help if he actually got a job to help with the additional expense of the plan payment for the arrears because wife’s income is good at net $6K but the mortgage has not been paid for 8 months, so something else must be going on that is draining the funds, right? I mean, we weren’t born yesterday, money doesn’t just disappear, its going off somewhere where its not supposed to. The math doesn’t add up.

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

“GLORY IN HIS HOLY NAME; LET THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO SEEK THE LORD REJOICE!” PSALM 105:3 n ***

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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People and Events Cora Aragon Soriano installed as 19th president of LA Maharlika Lions (District 4-L3)

MAHARLIKA Lions Club has been in existence for the past 18 years. Its focus has been on Lions’ Mission and Vision, and in strengthening programs, such as: Encourage Peace, Promote International Understanding, Sight-First Program, Humanitarian Projects, Medical/Surgical/Dental Missions, Feeding the Homeless, Disaster Relief Projects.and Speech Contest for the Youth. These programs benefit the marginalized and needy families in the Los Angeles Area and in the Philippines.

On Sunday, July 30, the LA Maharlika Lions held its 19th Anniversary and installed its 19th President, Cora Aragon Soriano.

The event was a huge success with over 250 guests. Past International Director Larry Dicus installed the following 2017-2018 officers: • President: Cora Aragon-Soriano • 1st Vice President: Wilder

Ynoquio • 2nd Vice President: Ruben Lagman • 3rd Vice President: Nestor Balila • Secretary: PDG Joel Pastor • Treasurer: Yolanda Sharp • Assistant Treasurer: Malu Lagman • Lion Tamer: Rogelio Igual • Lion Tail Twister: Irene Igual • MD Auditor: Maria Teresa Pastor, MD • Immediate Past President & Membership Chair: Freddie L. Salazar • One (1) year Directors: Reynaldo Abejuela - MD, Samuel Aquino - MD Rosemarie Barroquillo, Carl Dobluis, Judy Salazar • Two-year Directors: Ellen Abejuela - MD, Susan Aquino, MD, Marvin Barroquillo Paulette Dobluis, Marissa Dela Fuente, Joe Lagman • District Governor Bhee Donoghue inducted the following new

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

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

(Advertising Supplement)

Sunday’s Mass tells us (1 Kings 11-13), but in a tiny whispering sound that assures us of his presence and his power to save us.

In the whispering sound, God tells us to increase our faith and to remain firm.

We’ll need to remember the many ways that God has interfered in our personal histories and the history of the world. It’s is what St. Paul tells us in the Second Reading when he refers to God’s involvement in the lives of the Israelites. Paul said, “theirs the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises; theirs the patriarchs, and from them, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is over all, God blessed forever. (Romans 9:5)

Covenants, promises, and the reign of Jesus Christ—these are God’s manifestations throughout the history of the world and the history of our lives.

May we never fail to recall them so that our hearts will remain courageous to face all uncertainties and fears! ■

Cora Aragon Soriano

members: Lyra Buzon, Cynthia Galvez MD, Frederico Gapac, Maryann Mirador, Clarissa Shor, Shawn Tsai, Odette Ynoquio Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles Adelio Angelito S.Cruz gave an inspiring speech about the Philippines.

If anybody is interested in volunteering for many of the service projects, such as initiatives in vision health and humanitarian outreach, please consider being a member of the prestigious Maharlika Lions Club by emailing coraaragon@aol.com. ■

Will incorporating a separate...

Camp case where the contributions of effort and return on capital are separated from the value of the business. ■ *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.

The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This

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On trusting God’s...

evil things. That’s when we entrust to him all our concerns and ask him to interfere in the world affairs, to fight evil in the hearts of men and women, to bring the nations of the world in common cause for peace and justice.

Yes, that’s when we should trust the power of God! Today’s Gospel according to Matthew emphasizes divine power. “It is I; do not be afraid,” the Lord says. As biblical exegetes say, the heart of this Gospel story is the manifestation of God who does what he does, “walking on the sea and rescuing those in danger of drowning.”

He’s the God who reveals himself to us, not in winds, earthquake or fire as the First Reading in this

*** 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 (1991-2001). 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.

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 12-15, 2017

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MARKETPLACE SHOWROOM

Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ ON August 2, 2017, Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and David Perdue (R-GA) introduced the Reforming American Immigration for a Strong Economy (RAISE) Act, which would create a skills-based immigration points system, reduce the number of family-based immigrants, and void many existing family-based petitions.

Pres. Trump has wholeheartedly endorsed and supported this proposal, but we have to hope and pray it will never pass Congress, as its effects on bringing and uniting family members in the U.S. could be devastating.

Some key points of the Raise Act include: • Changes the definition of “child” from an unmarried person under age 21 to an unmarried person under age 18. Therefore, once your child reaches his or her 18th birthday, you could not petition them as a “child.”

• Eliminates parents as “immediate relatives,” meaning a U.S. citizen would no longer be able to petition his or her parents for a green card. Only spouses and minor children (under age 18) of U.S. citizens would be considered immediate relatives.

• Parents of U.S. citizen children (who are at least 21 years of age) would need to apply for a “W” non-immigrant/temporary visa, valid in five-year increments. The parents would not be given work authorization, nor could they accept any federal, state, or local public benefits. The child would also have to provide proof of health insurance coverage “at no cost to the alien” during the parents’ entire time in the U.S. • Only spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens (immediate relatives) or green card holders would be eligible for family-based petitions.

&

‘RAISE ACT’ to eliminate most IMF cuts 2017 growth forecast for PH to 6.6% B O. V family petitions and create point system for employment green cards by

• Eliminates petitions for unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (F-1) unmarried adult sons and daughters of green card holders (F2B), married sons and daughters of brothers and US citizens (F-3), and sisters of U.S. citizens (F-4).

• Invalidates/voids any petition being eliminated by the RAISE Act filed after August 2, 2017. This means any petitions filed in the F-1, F-2B, F-3, or F-4 categories after August 2, 2017 would be invalidated, should this measure become law.

• Creates a points–based system for immigration through employment. Points would be awarded (sort of like a game show) based on such factors as age (the younger you are the more points), educational level (with doctorate degree scoring the highest points), English proficiency (the better you speak English, the more points you score), and whether the person is receiving a job offer at a high salary.

• Prohibits naturalization of a person, if they ever received certain public benefits while they were a green card holder and the sponsor on their affidavit of support has not reimbursed the federal government.

I want to emphasize this is merely a proposal, and is not yet law. However, this proposal aims to shift the focus of immigration from bringing families together to a game show point system, focusing on employment-based petitions.

I would suggest people should FILE petitions for their family members as soon as possible, especially in those categories being targeted for elimination. I know this proposal talks about voiding petitions filed after August 2017, but that may never happen, because the petition would have been accepted for filing, the check for the filing fee would have been cashed, and a person would have already been holding an approved petition by

Data revealed that foreign direct investments were driven by reinvested earnings that grew 7.5 percent to $71 million.

Philstar.com photo

Foreign direct investments grow in May despite martial law

by JULIAN

OCAMPO Philstar.com

MANILA — Foreign investors shunned the start of the conflict in Mindanao, pouring in more funds into their local offices in the country last May, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reported on Thursday, Aug. 10.

Foreign direct investments (FDI) posted a net inflow of $572 million that month, up 57 percent year-on-year driven by company

reinvested earnings and intercompany borrowings.

“This was driven by continued positive outlook on the Philippine economy buoyed by strong macroeconomic fundamentals,” BSP said in a statement.

In May, the government reported that the economy grew 6.4 percent in the first quarter, missing most market expectations of about 7 percent growth.

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Gov’t economic team aims to achieve ‘regime of high growth’

Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Ernesto Pernia, Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President Vince Dizon, and Transportation and Communication Undersecretary Cesar Chavez do the signature pose of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in a photo opportunity during the Dutertenomics Forum at the Fairmont Makati on Thursday, Aug. 10. PNA photo Alfred Frias

by BEN

O. DE VERA Inquirer.net

THE head of the Duterte administration’s economic team on Wednesday, Aug. 9 sought private sector support for the comprehensive tax reform program to fund the ambitious infrastructure buildup plan as well as other

D1

socioeconomic programs aimed at slashing poverty.

At the Philippine Development Forum: Sulong Pilipinas 2017, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III also pointed to “substantial” progress in as far as the implementation of PAGE D2

Business Quote of the Week “Dollars have never been known to produce character, and character will never be produced by money. I’ll invest my money in people.”

- W.K. Kellogg, founder of Kellogg Company

the time the RAISE Act becomes a law. They cannot take the approved petition away from you. And I know some of these petitions can take many, many years before the visas are available. However, if you keep delaying filing a family based petition, and the category is eliminated, then your family member may no longer be eligible to immigrate based on your petition. *** 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 re-enactments) 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)

EN DE ERA Inquirer.net

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cut its growth forecast for the Philippines this year to 6.6 percent on the back of slower-than-expected expansion in the first quarter although the country is seen to remain among the region’s bright spots if economic reforms are sustained.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Aug. 8, Luis E. Breuer, head of the IMF’s 2017 Article IV Mission to the Philippines, said the downgraded gross domestic product (GDP) growth projection from 6.8 percent previously was due to the lower-than-anticipated expansion of 6.4 percent during the first three Luis Breuer, head of the 2017 Article Mission to the Philippines, said the IMF has lowered to 6.6 percent its 2017 economic growth target for the Philippines from the original forecast of months.

Philstar.com photo “As you know, growth is mea- 6.8 percent and to 6.8 percent instead of 6.9 percent for 2018. sured relative to the same period eral, we see the economy growing 2018, reflecting stable commodity last year when during the electoral close to potential, and that is very prices and a near zero output gap.

The current account balance is procycle there was higher spending good.”

For the medium term, the IMF jected to turn negative from 2017 which led to temporarily higher sees growth averaging 6.8 percent, and gradually widen due to higher growth,” Breuer explained.

The government had blamed “supported by robust domestic imports driven by investment, but the lower-than-expected first- demand and recovery in exports,” the external sector remains strong quarter growth rate to slower gov- the Washington-based multilateral and international reserves ample,” the IMF said. ernment spending, higher prices of lender said in a statement.

Economic managers had proAs for risks, these were “tilted consumer goods as well as the dissipated impact of election-related grammed the GDP to grow by to the downside and stem mainly 7-8 percent yearly next year until from external sources,” such as expenditures last year. spillovers from lower growth in The government targets 6.5-7.5 2022.

“Inflation is projected at the China, US monetary policy tightpercent growth this year.

PAGE D2 But Breuer noted that “in gen- center of the target band in 2017-

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Pala Casino Spa & Resort announces plans Tips to finding the right home for $170-M expansion and renovation 400 construction jobs to be created

PALA, CA – Officials of Pala Casino Spa & Resort announced plans for an expansion and complete renovation of its AAA Four Diamond award winning property. Construction of the $170 million project will begin in October 2017 and be completed in May 2019.

The renovation and expansion will include: the addition of a new 349 room hotel tower; the conversion of the existing resort pool into a multi-pool and entertainment resort complex; the construction of an inventory of unique hotel suites that will overlook the Starlight Theater event lawn and the new pool and entertainment complex; expanded gaming and casino bar space; a parking garage expansion; a completely remodeled restaurant promenade; a complete refresh of the entire casino interior; a complete refresh of the entire existing hotel tower.

“Our ability to exponentially expand and refresh Pala Casino Spa & Resort is a true testament to, not only the growth of Pala, but also to the thriving economy and the continued strength of the gaming industry in California,” said Robert Smith, Chairman of the Pala Band of Mission Indians.

“This is a significant milestone for our Tribe and we look forward to continuing to exceed the expectations of our loyal patrons.”

Once completed, Pala’s hotel will offer 854 deluxe rooms and suites, beautifully appointed

with the finest amenities. The hotel suites that will be added will overlook the new multi-pool and entertainment complex and the Starlight Theater, Pala’s custom built outdoor entertainment venue, which offers outstanding headliner acts and state-of-the-art sound and lighting.

The project will increase Pala’s casino from its current 90,000 square feet to over 102,000 square feet of gaming space. The expansion will allow Pala Casino to increase its offering of slot and video machines to 2,500 and its offering of table games to 88.

“We are very excited to engage in our third major expansion since our introduction to the Southern California gaming and hospitality market more than 16 years ago. As in the past, we expect elements of this expansion and upgrade to be unique to our property and to set new resort standards,” said Bill Bembenek, Chief Executive Officer of Pala Casino Spa & Resort.

“This significant expansion project will complement our already luxurious resort offerings while providing our patrons with new world-class amenities.”

Pala’s renovation and expansion project will create 400 construction jobs and, once complete, add over 200 new employment opportunities to Pala’s current team of 2,000 team members.

The construction company selected for the renovation and expansion is Level 10 Construc-

tion with headquarters in San Francisco, CA, and offices in Sunnyvale and San Diego, CA. The architect is Klai Juba Wald of Las Vegas, NV. The contributing architect is Marks Architects of San Diego, CA. For more information on Pala Casino Spa & Resort, please visit: www.palacasino.com.

Pala Casino Spa & Resort includes a Las Vegas-style casino with 2,000 slot machines, 80 table games and 15 poker tables; a 507room hotel; a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa and salon that features 14 treatment rooms; a state-of-the-art fitness center; swimming pool with 12 private poolside cabanas, and dual-temperature outdoor whirlpool hot tub. Pala also offers 11 restaurants and 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space.

Pala Casino Spa & Resort is an AAA Four-Diamond Award winner for 12 consecutive years. The new Pala RV Resort opened May 23, 2016, and offers 100 parking sites for RVs and trailers from 55 to 70 feet and full-service amenities for RVers. Pala RV Resort is rated a perfect 10/10*/10 by Good Sam, the national RV Resort rating publication. Trailer Life and Motorhome magazines awarded Pala RV Resort its Gold Awards for 2016 as Best RV Resort Casino and Best Campground Resort.

Its state-of- the-art Pala Spa was named the number three spa in North America and the number PAGE D4

by Shuyi Wang Head of Asian segment strategy, Wells Fargo

WHILE viewing a house in Oregon wine country, potential buyers mentioned to real estate agent Beth Caster that the sellers really should have set a higher price. Bad move. The sellers had a video surveillance system, heard the conversation, and slammed the door on any negotiations.

The moral: House hunting is not exactly what it used to be.

Finances aside, how can you land the house that’s right for you in today’s market? Much of it is common sense, but here are seven tips that may not always be apparent: 1. Don’t buy without an agent.

In today’s technology-driven world, it’s easier than ever to go it alone, relying on sites like Trulia (www.trulia.com), Realtor. com (www.realtor.com) and even social media. However, while you’re likely to get a lot of data, without representation you risk missing out on analysis and negotiating skills. Brian Carothers, of RE/MAX Advanced Realtors in western Pennsylvania, says, “If your realtor represents only you and not the seller, the agent can convey the reality of a house to help you make the right decision. I let clients fall in love with the bath, but I look for anything structural.”

Carothers will warn clients, “This house is going to make you spend money where you don’t want to spend it.”

2. Consider the neighborhood too.

For many people, what’s most

important in a neighborhood is “safety and proximity to work, good schools, family and friends,” says Steven Long, of Long Realty, a Berkshire-Hathaway subsidiary in Tucson, Arizona. While those things are critical to your longterm happiness, there should be other considerations too.

“Get out of the car and walk around. Are the neighbors friendly? Do they offer information?” says Caster. Carothers urges clients to revisit the area without him. “Go at different times of the day. Does it feel different in the evening? And drive to work from the neighborhood, especially during rush hour.” If there’s a homeowners association, be careful, but don’t jump to the automatic conclusion that it’s a negative.

3. Know what suits you, and be honest.

Beyond the obvious (like the number of rooms), you have to determine what floor plan suits you.

“Open floor plans have become the new standard,” says Carothers, but they’re not for everyone.

An open floor plan can be great for entertaining or keeping track of children. “If, on the other hand, your family members want more privacy or you want to contain or manage clutter, then a traditional house with more walls is better.”

It may be better for zoned heating and air-conditioning too.

Remember, your agent is on your side. “Give honest feedback to your realtor,” says Castor.

“These aren’t my homes, you won’t hurt my feelings by telling me exactly what you feel.”

4. Know the trends, but think twice.

McMansions and three-car garages were once the rage, but they have since lost some of their allure — as many trends do. “I see buyers more interested in energy efficiency, solid construction, and safety of the neighborhood.

They want smaller lots with less grass and upkeep,” says Caster.

Carothers says personal prefer-

ence should take precedence over trends or even resale value. What matters most, he says, is this: “Do you like the space? Can you live with the space?”

5. Delve further into the house.

When it’s time for a house inspection, Long encourages buyers to accompany the inspector. “The inspector will not only reveal issues with the home but will tell you how the home operates. Meet with the sellers prior to close of escrow, too, so they can explain how things work.” This could range from tips on the heating and cooling systems to making sure you know where the owners’ manuals are for appliances.

6. Investigate homeowners associations (HOAs) and condos.

Talk with the other owners in the neighborhood or complex and ask them how well the complex is managed. “HOAs can be a pain,” admits Long, “but they maintain the integrity of a subdivision, and hence property values.”

Understanding condo regulations is even more important: “How many parking spots are there? What about pets? Some condos will not even allow Christmas wreaths on doors,” cautions Caster. “And make sure the association or condo is financially able to make needed repairs.”

7. Be realistic.

“No house is perfect, even when people build their own,” says Carothers. Compounding that, he adds, is a current lack of inventory in some markets.

Therefore, buyers have to be realistic and keep asking themselves, “Does this work?”

Here’s the paradox: “Buyers today must be patient and aggressive at the same time,” he explains. “They’re unlikely to find the exact house of their dreams, but when something close does come up, they must leap at it.”

Carothers pauses, then adds, “It’s a delicate balance.”

IMF cuts 2017 growth forecast...

PAGE D1 ening, as well as rising concerns about globalization in some advance economies, according to the IMF. However, “the combination of rapid credit growth, buoyant private investment and fiscal expansion could lead to overheating” on top of other domestic risks, including natural disasters and security-related events.

“The Philippines stands out as a place that continues to do well economically—growth continues to be very strong, at the same time inflation is low,” Breuer said.

The IMF official said they support the government’s plans to raise infrastructure and social spending while avoiding overheating as well as preserving investor confidence.

Also, Breuer said the Philippine government can protect the economic growth potential by pushing three key reform bills, namely: the comprehensive tax reform program, the budget reform bill, and the amendments to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas charter.

“The approval of the first tax reform package could lead to higher infrastructure investment which raises potential growth,” the IMF said.

As for the budget reform and rightsizing bills, the IMF said these “will also help further improve spending efficiency and quality,

helping to achieve the inclusive growth agenda” Also, “there is a critical need to approve the amendment of the BSP law to strengthen the financial stability framework and enhance the monetary transmission,” the IMF added.

In light of the ongoing fighting between government forces and ISIS supporters in Marawi City, Breuer said that there was “no evidence that confidence or sentiment in the Philippines, which is very strong by regional and global standards as both the private and public sectors have very ambitious plans to expand, has been weakened because of any regional security events.”

“When we look at the numbers, including private [sector investment] and FDI [foreign direct investment], the numbers are quite buoyant. Investment is very dynamic,” Breuer added.

“I think that the Philippines as a nation has been quite consistent in pursuing good policies for a number of years now. This is very important to consolidate trust, preserve sentiment and to build new layers of prosperity from those left behind by preceding administrations. This policy continuity around good policies that we observed in the Philippines, I think, is very valuable for the country and it will serve the Philippines well,” according to Breuer.

Foreign direct investments grow...

PAGE D1 A week after the announcement on May 23, President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao in a bid to assist the military on fighting the Maute group of insurgents in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. The military rule was subsequently extended by Congress up to the end of the year from its original deadline of July 23.

Broken down, data showed FDI was driven by reinvested earnings that grew 7.5 percent to $71 million.

Debt instruments issued by foreign firms to their local companies here also rose 12.8

percent to $459 million. Debts issued are supposedly used for the firms’ expansion here in the Philippines.

Still, equity investments— which represent new FDI—went down for the fifth straight month to $113 million, figures showed.

This marked a decrease of 21.3 percent.

Most equity investments came from the US, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore and Malaysia, BSP said.

The latest monthly tally brought the five-month figure to $3.01 billion, still 23.8 percent down from $3.9 billion in the same period a year ago.

Gov’t economic team aims...

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the 10-point socioeconomic agenda and the private sector’s recommendations during the first Sulong forum held in June last year, or before President Rodrigo Duterte assumed the presidency.

“The economic program of this administration aspires to achieve a regime of high growth.

Our economic policies seek to make that growth more inclusive in the next few years as we enable our economy to be investments-led. By the end of this administration, we expect to bring down poverty incidence to just 14 percent,” Dominguez said in a speech.

For Dominguez, “fiscal policy

is an important tool for achieving the economic growth we envision,” stressing the importance of passing the proposed comprehensive tax reform package.

“The reform package seeks to bring down corporate and personal tax rates closer to the regional average. This will help us build a strong middle class, encourage investments into our economy and put more disposable income in the pockets of wage earners,” Dominguez said.

“Tax reform will likewise help support the infrastructure program we so direly need to keep pace with our neighbors, improve efficiency in the movePAGE D4

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Driving joy to people the Browning Mazda way MAZDA builds cars that inspire, excite, and most of all, bring joy to people. This is the philosophy that guides people behind Browning Mazda, from the manufacturing of cars down to the service it gives to its customers.

At Browning Mazda in Cerritos, California, customers can get the key to unlock their dream car that will usher them toward their journey of a thousand miles — and more!

Whatever suits your taste or lifestyle, the customer service and sales team at Browning Mazda will guide you through your journey to find the perfect car. Not only does this dealership specialize in new Mazda models, but it has a fantastic and huge selection of used cars for sale.

Mazda vehicles are recognized for their safety features. As Mazda drivers, customers get maximum confidence and enjoyment out of their drive knowing that these available systems are constantly working to alert them from potential hazards, avert collisions, or reduce their severity when one is unavoidable. It is another example of Mazda’s Jinba Ittai philosophy of creating oneness between car and driver. It is an experience drivers won’t find at any other brand.

Mazda is well-known for its affordable, quality-performance vehicles. Browning Mazda employees believe that a car should stir the emotions, it should

Jun Paguinto cell: (213) 321-6728

make your heart race before you even get behind the wheel.

This is why Browning Mazda’s mantra is “make cars that make driving matter.” No wonder the employees don’t feel competition at all when it comes to their brand. Mazda considers “a car as an art” which makes it a cut above the rest. As a company commitment, Browning Mazda will continue to defy convention in everything it does in order to achieve the best possible results.

Browning Mazda takes pride in its loyal customers from whom it draws strength. Here are a few examples of how Browning Mazda drives joy to its customers’ lives: “The family still comes back for great deals even on accessories.”

(Maurice Varela, a customer since 1998) “Excellent attention and courtesy, a treatment that makes you feel comfortable.”(David Colmenares) “I’ve bought two vehicles here.

Service has been good.” (Erick Montoya) “I’ve purchased two new cars here and have always taken them back to be serviced at Browning Mazda. The service is always always prompt and reliable.”

(Deidra Toney) An essential part of driving joy to the people is giving back to the community. A core value of The Browning Automotive Group is to partner with the communities where

our associates and clients live.

Through the Browning Family Foundation and other sources, they support a wide-range of organizations, primarily focusing on the next generation and those with special needs. They believe that strong, vibrant communities are mutually beneficial to all.

Browning Mazda sponsors an annual “Drive For Good” where Mazda donates to several charities such as; St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, American Red Cross and American Heart Association, to date Mazda has raised $15,564,550. They also sponsor local blood drives, health fairs and recently we were sponsors in ABC Education and Foundation- Into the Summer Fun Run. Browning Mazda is always running specials from sales to service and parts. Customers may approach Browning Mazda’s very own Filipino salesperson, Jun Paguinto, who boasts a 13-year career in sales.

To learn more about how Browning Mazda dealership in Cerritos, you may call Tofan Hans at (562) 881-5295 or Jun Paguinto at (213) 3216728. Or take a trip and swing by the dealership at 18827 Studebaker Road, Cerritos, CA 90703.

Make that first step toward your amazing journey of a thousand miles at Browning Mazda!

(Advertising Supplement)

Tofan Hans cell: (562) 881-5295

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Condo rents to drop as supply expands

by Charissa

Mae NeMis ManilaTimes.net

Metropolitan offers water-savings incentives to users via bewaterwise.com CommerCial, institutional and agricultural water users looking to save water and money can now apply online for financial incentives offered by the metropolitan Water District of Southern California for customized conservation projects. metropolitan’s Water Savings incentive Program is a pay-forperformance program offered through the district’s online conservation portal—bewaterwise. com—that goes beyond rebates to help consumers develop creative, customized water-saving projects at their work site. metropolitan expanded the

program, which originally focused on industrial processes, to include any commercial, institutional and agricultural water user. Projects may include using recycled industrial wastewater, retrofitting water-using equipment with high-efficiency models, upgrading irrigation systems for agricultural or large landscaped areas, and capturing and reusing water condensation in cooling towers. metropolitan’s online approach allows customers to submit an application faster and easier, reducing the need for contracts between metropolitan

and the customer. it is expected to result in faster review and approval times as well as expedited incentive payments. each project must save a minimum of 10 million gallons of water during its projected life or over a 10-year period (whichever is shorter).

Projects are considered on a first-come-first-served basis until funding is exhausted. Visit bewaterwise.com for more information and to submit an application. additional water-saving tips are available by following metropolitan on social media using the handle @mwdh2o.

Pala Casino Spa & Resort announces...

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one spa in the State of California and the entire casino industry for 2016. The ranking marked the eleventh consecutive year that Pala Spa has been ranked in the Top 100 and Top 10. Pala Casino Spa & resort was voted Best Casino in San Diego by the public

in the 10News.com annual a-list poll sponsored by KGTV-TV 10 News in San Diego. For more information, visit http://www. palacasino.com.

The Pala Band of mission indians is a federally recognized tribe whose reservation is located along the Palomar mountain

Gov’t economic team aims...

PAGE D2 ment of goods and people, and prepare our economy to thrive in a more competitive setting,” the Finance chief added. as such, Dominguez called on businessmen to “help in pushing the tax reform package forward.”

“The tax reform package is necessary to build 113,553 classrooms for our children and hire 181,980 more teachers. This will help us change national gravel roads, irrigate 1.3 million hectares of agricultural land and provide road access for 7,894

isolated barangays and 23,293 isolated sitios. it will enable us to upgrade 704 hospitals and establish 25 new ones, achieve 100-percent PhilHealth coverage with higher quality services, upgrade 263 rural and urban health units to disaster-resilient facilities and hire an additional 176,922 health professionals,” the Finance chief said.

“The tax reform package will help fund the socioeconomic programs of government, including the targeted cash transfers, ‘pantawid pasada,’ ‘pantawid kuryente,’ and the PUV modern-

CollierS international expects rents to decline by 1 percent to 3 percent in the next few months until 2020, depressed by market competition as alternative locations become viable for condominium projects. lack of land to develop in Central Business Districts (CBDs) across metro manila has pushed developers to launch projects outside CBDs. in fact, almost 86 percent of the 28 buildings launched for sale in the first half of the year may be found in alternative locations such as San Juan, Parañaque, Pasig, Fairview, las Piñas, and South manila.

“There’s not enough land left … That’s why a lot of the developers are trying to recreate that CBD feel outside—the likes of Vertis, eton Centris, megaworld … they’re all doing smaller satellite cities because it is difficult to get plots in the traditional (locations). They’re now trying to go into different locations. Developers are now going outside” Colliers Philippines Deputy managing Director richard raymundo said in a briefing on Thursday, aug. 10.

The growing vacancy rates across submarkets also contribute to the gradual drop in rent prices. as 2,300 units in the second quarter of the year add to the total stock of 96,000 units in

range approximately 30 miles northeast of San Diego. The majority of the over 900 tribal members live on the 12,000-acre by reiCeleNe Joy igNaCio reservation, established for CuManilaTimes.net peño and luiseño indians, who consider themselves to be one CoNCerNS over the peso’s proud people - Pala. current weakness are unfounded (Advertising Supplement) and a strengthening could in fact

Lack of land to develop in Central Business Districts (CBDs) across Metro Manila has pushed developers to launch projects outside CBDs. In fact, almost 86 percent of the 28 buildings launched for sale in the first half of the year may be found in alternative locations such as San Juan, Parañaque, Pasig, Fairview, Las Piñas, and South Manila.

CBDs, the overall vacancy stood at 10.9 percent as of end-June.

The vacancy across the CBD submarkets will likely rise in the next 12 months, with the overall vacancy to hover between 11 percent and 11.5 percent. in 2018, vacancy is expected to reach 16 percent, given the upcoming supply, before moving back to the 10 percent range in 2019 and 2020, according to Colliers. meanwhile, total take-up across metro manila rose by 18 percent to 23,000 units in the first half of 2017 from a year earlier, of which 89 percent were in areas outside major CBDs. majority or 45 percent of the take-up also came from affordable and economic segments or those priced at P3.2 million and below per unit. The mid-income segment, priced between P3.2 million and P6 million, followed with 38 percent, and the upscale/

luxury category account for 17 percent.

The proposed tax reform removing the value added tax exemption on low-cost housing will impact the affordable and mid-income housing segment, Colliers noted, “but we also see developers responding by extending the payment terms to make it easier for the buyers to pay. That’s how we see it happening, moving forward.”

Colliers urged developers to take advantage of the rising demand in affordable and midincome units by building projects catering to the segment, and offering lifestyle-oriented amenities, unique retail options, and recreational elements to attract buyers.

Potential buyers, investors, and tenants, on the other hand, are advised to consider areas outside CBDs for competitive rents and prices.

‘Strong peso does not mean a strong economy’

ization program as well as the national iD system,” Dominguez added. “on of all these, tax reform will enable government to undertake a massive infra program amounting to 7.4 percent of gross domestic product without breaking the limits of fiscal discipline,” according to Dominguez.

Under its “Build, Build, Build” program, the Duterte administration plans to spend up to P9 trillion until 2022 to usher in a “golden age of infrastructure.” infrastructure spending had been programmed to rise to about P1.84 trillion in 2022.

For his part, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary ernesto m.

Pernia said the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022, the medium-term socioeconomic blueprint of the Duterte administration, took into account the private sector’s recommendations during last year’s Sulong.

“The PDP will not remain a plan. in fact, it has been translated into specific programs and projects that will be implemented by the national government to respond to the PDP’s societal goals and strategies,” said Pernia, who heads the state planning agency National economic and Development authority.

weigh on the economy, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said on Thursday, aug. 10. “a weak peso is good for us because it is good for the budget. it will increase the revenues,” Diokno said at the latest Dutertemomics Forum, held in Fairmont in makati.

“We don’t want our peso to go to P48. That is not good for our economy,” Diokno added.The budget chief said a stronger peso would also disadvantage overseas Filipino workers supporting families in the country. “a strong peso does not mean a strong economy. We want a competitive exchange rate,” he said.

The currency closed at P50.795 to the dollar on Thursday, weaker compared to the previous day’s P50.575. meanwhile, Diokno said that Filipinos shouldn’t be afraid of

Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada

foreign loans the government will be taking to fund its infrastructure projects.

“We have hefty gross international reserves,” he said.

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FATF-compliant PH dodges APG membership action

by Ben

O. de Vera Inquirer.net

The Philippines escaped action to be meted by the regional watchdog guarding against dirty money transactions after casinos were placed under the coverage of the anti-money laundering law.

On its website, the Anti-Money Laundering Council said that during the meeting of the AsiaPacific Group on Money Laundering (APG) in Sri Lanka last month, “the Philippines has been taken out from APG membership action” after the government reported that President Rodrigo Duterte signed the casino bill into law.

To recall, Duterte in July signed Republic Act (RA) No. 10927, which included casinos, including internet- and shipbased casinos, under the coverage of the Anti-Money Laundering Act. “Among the issues discussed during the plenary is the Philippines’ compliance to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Forty Recommendations, particularly on the inclusion of casinos as covered persons. It would be recalled that in 2013, the FATF removed the Philip-

pines from the list of vulnerable jurisdictions (‘grey list’) but enjoined it to ‘work with the APG as it continues to address the full range of anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) issues identified in its mutual evaluation report, in particular, regulating the casino sector in the Philippines for AML/CFT purposes and making it subject to AML/CFT requirements,’” the AMLC said.

On the APG’s website, it said the Philippines, alongside Afghanistan, Brunei, Nepal, Pakistan, Taiwan and Vietnam, “exited transitional mutual evaluation follow-up in recognition of their significant progress in implementing the FATF standards.”

Under RA 10927, casinos must report to the AMLC any cash transaction involving an amount in excess of P5 million or its equivalent in any foreign currency.

RA 10927 defined internetbased casinos as those in which persons participate by the use of remote communication facilities such as … internet, telephone, television, radio and any other kind of electronic or other technology for facilitating communication.

On the other hand, ship-based casinos are those that operate on board vessels, ships, boat or any other water-based craft wholly or partly intended for gambling.

The move to include casinos as covered institutions started even before the Aquino administration left office, especially in light of the so-called Bangladesh Bank heist early last year that saw the entry of stolen money into local bank Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. The money later ended up in Philippine casinos.

Founded 20 years ago, the AMLC said the APG is an “autonomous and collaborative international organization” consisting of 41 members, including FATF as well as regional and global observers. The Philippines was a founding member GOV’T PROJECT PRESENTATION. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon (left), presents the features of ongoing project while Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar, National Economic and Development Authority Director-General Ernesto of the APG. Pernia, Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Trade and Industry Sec. Ramon Lopez, and Transportation Undersecretary According to the AMLC, “APG Ceazar Chaves look on, during the Dutertenomics Forum with the Makati Business Club held at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City on members and observers are Thursday, Aug. 10.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan committed to the effective implementation and enforcement of internationally accepted standards against money laundering and the financing of terrorism, in particular the Forty RecomMARkeT correction weighed day–before trading between P50.90 ate action when necessary. We mendations,” referring to the recognize that the market is also initiative aimed at combating on the Philippine peso, driving and P51.08 against US currency.

“We’re constantly monitoring the local currency to hit P51:$1 often self-correcting,” Bangko the misuse of financial systems peso developments for excessive Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor on Friday, Aug. 11 trade. by money launderers.

The local currency opened at short -term volatility not consis- Nestor espenilla Jr. said in a P50.90 to $1–11 centavos weaker tent with underlying economic message via Viber. (Mayvelin from P50.79:$1 closing on Thurs- fundamentals and take appropri- Caraballo/ManilaTimes.net)

Peso hits P51:$1 on ‘self-correcting market’

Government urged to look beyond admin’s ‘Build Build Build’ initiative Food manufacturers buck sugar tax on milk by richmOnd

mercuriO Philstar.com

MANILA - The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) wants government to also take into account the potential socioeconomic impact of infrastructure developments beyond the Build Build Build initiative.

PCCI president George Barcelon said it is not enough for government to develop new infrastructure projects “just to have that.”

“In a way, what’s more important is what comes after the infrastructure project,” he said.

“We are in a way talking to National economic and Development Authority Secretary ernesto Pernia that after this infrastructure is done, what are its socioeconomic benefits. So that has to be planned out now.

For example, you have a train from point A to point B. What are the job creating industries that will take advantage of this

infrastructure? So that has to be part of the masterplan,” he added.

Barcelon said the local manufacturing, agriculture and services sectors are among those expected to benefit substantially from the new big-ticket infrastructure projects which the government has lined up.

“We’re doing these huge ticket items not only to decongest traffic. There may be some socioeconomic benefits,” Barcelon said.

The Duterte administration is ushering in what is touted as the golden age of infrastructure through an aggressive infrastructure spending program.

Dubbed Build Build Build, the government will spend a total P8.4 trillion or approximately $160 billion for infrastructure in the next six years.

For 2017 alone, the government allocated 5.4 percent of gross domestic product for infrastructure spending.

Barcelon said the private

sector is also keen to hear on a more detailed plan or timeline on the infrastructure projects in the government’s pipeline.

“I don’t expect them to do everything at the same time.

So how they prioritize and what kind of a timeline would they give,” he said.

Barcelon stressed that development of necessary infrastructure to support the country’s information and communications technology should likewise be fast-tracked, particularly in the provinces. “here in Metro Manila I think they’re doing a lot of this, but further expanding that scope of accessibility and better services outside is where we are a bit delayed,” he said.

“In manufacturing, we feel there could be more if we can attract not only local businessmen to expand but also foreign direct investments. And the key is tourism. Tourism has a huge multiplying effect,” the PCCI chief added.

by raadee

S. SauSa ManilaTimes.net

FOOD manufacturers want legislators to exempt milk products from a planned sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) tax that is included in sweeping revenue reforms being pushed by the government.

“We respectfully pray that the Senate will not include any milk tax in house Bill [hB] 5636 because we firmly believe that by taxing milk, it will deprive the lower income and undernourished segments of the population of access to a rich source of affordable nutrition-milk,” said elizabeth de Leon-Lim, president of Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers, Inc. hB 5636 or the the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (Train) bill, was passed in May by the house of Representatives and is currently being considered by the Senate as it deliberates its own version, Senate Bill 1408.

“Levying a tax on milk prod-

ucts will increase prices by as much as 30 percent. The increase will bring these products beyond the reach especially of the lower income and undernourished segments of the population, depriving them of a rich source of otherwise affordable nutrition,” Lim said.

The chamber said powdered milk prices could rise by 11 percent to 26 percent while flavored milk, specifically chocolate flavored brands, will see prices rise by 11 percent to 34 percent. higher prices could take a toll on nutrition, with the chamber noting that the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) recommends one glass of milk per day.

It said that based on a Save the Children study done in collaboration with FNRI-DOST, education and productivity losses as a result of child undernutrition totaled P328 billion in 2013, equivalent to 2.84 percent of the country’s

gross domestic product for that year.

The same study found that after more than 25 years of steady improvement, childhood undernutrition rose by more than 10 percent from 2013 to 2015. Stunting among children under five years old increased by more than 10 percent from 2013 to 2015, from 30.3 percent in 2013 to 33.4 percent in 2015.

Underweight increased from 20 percent to 21.5 percent.

Rather than curtailing access to affordable sources of nutrition such as milk, the chamber urged the government to direct its focus and resources on “nutritional interventions” that could effectively reduce malnutrition, undernutrition, stunting and wasting among children.

It said that countries with SSB taxes such as Ireland, the United kingdom, the United States and Mexico had excluded milk and dairy products because of their nutritional value.

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