La weekend edition december 24 27, 2016

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EDITION

December 24-27, 2016

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T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r

Volume 26 - No. 103 • 4 Sections – 30 Pages

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Duterte wants power to declare martial law without approval from SC, Congress Also published in: • Orange County/Inland Empire • Northern California • Las Vegas • New York/ New Jersey

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PresIDeNt rodrigo Duterte, on thursday, December 22, said that he is seeking to amend certain provisions in the 1987 Constitution to make it easier for any president to declare martial law. section 18, Article VII of the 1987

DATELINE

Constitution states that the president of the Philippines may place the country under martial law in case of invasion or rebellion for not exceeding than 60 days; and that the president may suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus within 48 hours from the proclamation of martial law. the law, however, also gives the Con-

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gress and the supreme Court the power to review and revoke a president’s declaration of martial law.

Duterte said that he wanted to amend the Constitution because it would be difficult to declare martial law if the Congress and the high court have different stances about it. “eh ngayon ang problema niya, kung

ang findings ng sC at iyong findings ng Congress, magkalaban, hindi alam ng pulis saan siya magbigti ah iyong presidente saan siya mag-dive (Now the problem is if the Sc’s findings and congress’ findings were different, the police wouldn’t not now where the president would hang himself or where would the president dive),” Duterte added.

USA

Report: Wealth gap widens among Asian Americans

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US State Department updates travel warning to southern Philippines the United states state Department has renewed a travel advisory urging Americans to avoid parts of the Philippines and malaysia in light of ongoing terrorist activities targeting travelers in the south sulu sea. the announcement on tuesday, December 20 replaces a prior warning issued on April 21 in response to kidnappings and other crimes perpetrated by militias based in and around the southern Philippines. the advisory outlines an area south of Palawan and Zamboanga City and bordered by the northwest coast of malaysia and the sulu Archipelago as a hotbed of insurgent violence. the state Department also recommends “extreme caution” when traveling through western mindanao, where at least 13 separate abductions have occurred since January. “there have been no reports of U.s. citizens in mindanao targeted specifically for their nationality,” the advisory issued by the state Department said. “however, general threats to U.s. citizens and other foreigners throughout mindanao remain a concern.” the presence of a number of militant or-

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Duterte: 3 out of every 5 Americans are idiots

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

the common myth surrounding the economic status of Asian Americans is that they generally fare better than most ethnic groups, and very basic statistics support that notion.

According to a 2016 report from Pew research Center, Asian American men and women earn more than white, black and hispanic American men and women, respectively, in hourly jobs. the average household wealth of Asian Americans is also on the rise, and will soon be comparable to white households. however, what isn’t considered in the model minority myth — the notion that all Asian Americans represent success — is that the Asian American experience varies greatly.

A new report from the Center for American Progress (CAP) focused on this phenomenon and found that the wealth inequality among Asians is greater than the wealth disparity among white American households.

Using government data, the researchers explored the increasing wealth gap between poor and rich Asian Americans, comparing the results to those of white Americans.

Asian households at the bottom one-

he argued that waiting for both approvals from the Congress and sC invalidates the purpose of the power to declare martial law. “eh kung magulo ang mundo? Kaya nga martial law na eh, para isang tao na lang ang magdirekta (What if the world is in chaos? That’s why it is called mar-

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

STORMY CHRISTMAS UP AHEAD. A severe tropical storm that may intensify into a typhoon will bring moderate to heavy rains and blustery weather to the Philippines on Christmas Day, weather forecasters said on Friday, Dec. 23. Tropical Storm “Nina” (international name: Nockten) was about 700 kilometers east of Borongan, Eastern Samar, and was packing winds of up to 105 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 130 kph by late Friday afternoon.

Inquirer.net photo

CoNtINUING his series of verbal attacks against the United states, President rodrigo Duterte on thursday, December 22, claimed that three out of every five Americans were “idiots.”

“Ang problema kasi sa puti—itong Amerikanong ulol—every five Americans kasi, ang tatlo diyan idioto. Dalawa lang diyan ang tama ang utak (The problem with these white people, these insane Americans, is that three out of five of them are idiots, and only two are in their right minds),” President Duterte said. “tumahimik kayong mga Amerikano kayo (You Americans should just shut up),” he added.

During the Convergence of Nanay Volunteers as Community Drug Watch in Pampanga, Duterte recalled in his speech the millennium Challenge Corporation’s (mCC) recent decision to withhold its

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Pacquiao uncertain about Sotto on canceled James Taylor running for president concert: Non-drug users have

nothing to fear in the Philippines

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

for now, filipino boxing champion and senator manny Pacquiao is not eyeing a run for the Philippine presidential seat in the future.

Pacquiao, who arrived at Incheon International Airport early on friday, December 23, said it’s because he “already has a hefty responsibility as a senator” and “still enjoys his life as a boxer,” according to reports from Korea times. the senator is scheduled to meet fans and participate in a charity bazaar at the hotel in Korea on December 24 and 25.

During Pacquiao’s 38th birthday celebration last week, Philippine President rodrigo Duterte called the senator a “president-to-be.”

“I asked permission from president-

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by Dana

SioSon AJPress

foLLoWING the announcement that award-winning American singer-songwriter James taylor canceled his upcoming concert in manila, senate majority Leader Vicente sotto III said that the Philippines is a safe country for non-drug users and pushers.

“If you are not a pusher or a user,

Senator Manny Pacquiao

China gifts $14.4-M in weapons to PH

by Eric

anthony LicaS AJPress

ChINese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua offered over $14 million worth of weapons and equipment at no cost to the Philippine government on monday, December 19 for use in President rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.

Defense minister Delfin Lorenzana also said that Beijing is prepared to

extend as much as $500 million in soft loans to manila for additional equipment during a press briefing on tuesday, December 20.

“We might get some small arms, fast boats and night vision goggles because $14.4 million is not that much,” Lorenzana told reporters on tuesday.

“We will finalize the deal before the end of the year.” the aid illustrates a warming of

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you have nothing to fear in the Philippines!” sotto, who started his career as a comedian actor before engaging in politics, tweeted on thursday, December 22. early this week, taylor announced his decision to cancel his upcoming concert in manila next year due to the reported rise in extrajudicial killings related to the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.

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A DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

Duterte wants power to declare martial law…

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tial law because only one person directs),” he pointed out.

He then added, “Eh kung iba ang SC. Magsabi ang Congress, yes. No ito, yes itong isa. Saan mo ako ilagay? Kaya kailangan talagang palitan iyan (What if the Congress says yes and the SC says no? Where should I stand?

That’s why it really has to be amended).”

However, Duterte said that there will be “a safety measure” if ever the law would be amended.

‘Worst Christmas gift’ Following Duterte’s remarks, Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo on Friday said that the “threat of a return to Martial Law and one-man rule” is the “the worst Christmas gift to the Filipino people.”

President Rodrigo Duterte

In a statement, Robredo claimed that the president’s “challenge the democratic safeguards of the very Constitution he swore to uphold” was “appalling” and urged the public to “reDAZZLING. The Mandaluyong city hall complex is lit up for the holidays, becoming a Christmas attraction. Stalls around the city hall sell main vigilant against” it. various goods to residents of the ‘Tiger City.’

ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada She added that Duterte’s referring specific provisions in the 1987 Constitution as a ‘reckless reaction’ is “an insult to the experience of the Filipino nation that endured great suffering and PAGE A1 t concert there. I don’t think of my In his post, Taylor said that “for On his Facebook and Twitter music as being particularly polit- a sovereign nation to prosecute hardship” when the Philippines was once under martial law dur- accounts, Taylor said that he has ical but sometimes one is called and punish, under the law, those ing late President Ferdinand to make a “political stand.” upon to make a political stand,” responsible for the illegal trade in “It saddens me to cancel our he wrote.

Marcos’ administration. n drugs is, of course, understandable, even commendable.” “[B]ut recent reports from the Philippines of summary executions of suspected offenders without trial or judicial process are deeply concerning and unacceptable to anyone who loves the rule of law,” he remarked.

According to reports from Inquirer, Sotto explained that it is “OK” for an artist to have a political stand, however, he said that Taylor was apparently “misinformed” about the drug war in the Philippines.

Sotto noted that half of the recorded number of extrajudicial killings in the country “are not drug-related but related to common crimes like murder, homicide, robbery, etc.”

According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), there are about 6,000 people have been killed in relation to the government’s crackdown on narcotics from July 1 to December 12. The PNP, however, said that of the 6,000 recorded deaths, only over 2,000 were killed in police operations while the remaining were “deaths under investigation” or vigilante-style killings.

In an earlier statement, the PNP said that it respects Taylor’s decision.

“The PNP respects the artist’s

Sotto on canceled James Taylor concert…

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From the Front page

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 24-27, 2016

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Duterte: 3 out of every…

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$434-million financial assistance to the Philippines.

MCC said it withheld its second aid due to “significant concerns around rule of law and civil liberties.”

“Bakit mo ako imbestigahin (Why would you investigate me) for saying when I was the president, ‘Stop drugs because if you are destroying my country, I will kill you.’ And if you deprive us of our youth for the next generation’—iyong mga anak ninyo, saan tayo kukuha ng Pilipino na tatakbo ng bayan na ito kung puro gunggong na lahat (your children.

Where will we find Filipinos who will govern the country if every-

body became retarded)?” he said, lashing back at his critics.

Duterte then reiterated how widespread the drug problem is in the Philippines.

“Remember four million is four million. It’s no joke and they are spread all throughout the country,” Duterte stressed, referring to the number of drug personalities.

Records from the Philippine National Police (PNP) show that around 6,000 people have been killed in the campaign from July 1 to December 12—with 2,000 people slain during legitimate police operations while the remaining 4,000 were killed in extrajudicial or vigilante-style killings, most reportedly conducted

by unknown suspects.

“And we are already a narcopolitics state. We did not realize it until I became the mayor that there were already congressmen, governors, mayors, barangay captains pati pulis (plus police) by the thousands,” he added.

Early this week, Duterte tagged the United States as a “land of hypocrisy” for its criticism against his administration’s drug campaign.

“America is a land of hypocrisy. There are 40,000 Americans killed every year, drug-related,” Duterte previously said.

He also lashed out the U.S. for allegedly supplying firearms to South American drug cartels. n

Pacquiao uncertain about running…

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to-be Manny Pacquiao. Ako, nagbitaw na ako ng salita, oo, klaro na ’yan (I already said my piece.

It’s clear),” Duterte said.

This, however, was not the first time Duterte mentioned the idea of Pacquiao becoming president.

Last month, during their meet-

ing at Malacañang, Duterte reportedly raised senator’s hand and said, “For president na ’to ha. (This one is for president).”

On the other hand, in an earlier interview with Agence FrancePresse, the senator said he thought of shooting for the top political position in the country

when he retires from his boxing career.

Pacquiao, while still maintaining his boxing career, has served as a member of the House of Representatives for two terms before winning a senatorial post in the national elections this past May. n

this rise in wealth inequality can be traced back to greater indebtedness and faster rising debt, especially installment loans for student debt and car purchases,” the report read. “The faster rise in inequality among Asian Americans than among whites in particular suggests that Asian American inequality results from factors other than just age and education” CAP pointed out that the mean net worth of white households and Asian households is about the same ($680,000, according to CAP’s findings) which creates the illusion that Asian Americans are doing just as well as whites.

But what that statistic fails to recognize is that there are stark differences among cultures within the Asian American community. Folks that hail from Vietnam, Laos or Cambodia — who make up about 45 percent of the Asian population in the U.S. — aren’t doing as well as other Asian ethnic groups.

“The problem is that ‘Asian American’ doesn’t hold together as a category,” Philip Cohen, a sociology professor at the University of Maryland, told the Washington Post. “The group is too diverse. It doesn’t really make sense to compare recent

Chinese, Korean or Pakistani immigrants who are working in tech and engineering jobs to people who came as refugees in the 1980s and their workingclass descendants.”

Although Asian Americans are the fastest-growing demographic in the United States, they are still a relatively small group. According to the Census Bureau, Asian Americans only comprise about 5-6 percent of the American population so the researcher’s findings may not be wholly accurate.

The researchers acknowledge that the data is “statistically significant” enough to make conclusions about the 10 percent level.

A significant takeaway from the report seems to be the increasing financial success of the richest Asian Americans; although the report finds the wealth gap increasing, there isn’t sufficient evidence to say that poorer Asian Americans are significantly getting poorer.

The report utilized the data and findings from triennial surveys from the Federal Reserve, which gather samples of several thousand Americans nationwide, including a few hundred Asian Americans. (Klarize Medenilla/ AJ Press)

Report: Wealth gap widens among Asian…

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fifth have an average net worth of $9,319 from 2010 to 2013.

In comparison, median Asian households averaged a $132,653 net worth, and the net worth of the highest-earning households — the 90th percentile Asians — was at about $1.4 million in the same four-year period.

“Moreover, the gap between wealthy and non-wealthy Asian Americans has widened,” the report read. “Asian Americans also have fewer retirement benefits than whites and are more indebted than whites, creating a potentially precarious situation when stock and housing prices fall.

The bottom line is that wealth inequality across American families deserves policy attention.

This is especially true for Asian Americans in the bottom half of the income distribution.”

Factors that contribute to wealth inequality — and why many Asian American households are facing drawbacks in financial succession — increasing home mortgages, lower home ownership and student and car loan hikes.

“Wealth inequality among Asian Americans has also grown faster for the past two decades than it has for whites. In part,

SHINING, SHIMMERING, SPLENDID. It is full of lights and Santa Clauses, thus this house along Policarpio St. in Mandaluyong City draws dozens of visitors every night. The house has become a tourist attraction in the city every December.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada

China gifts $14.4-M in weapons to…

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ties between the Philippines and China, which had been strained over competing territorial claims at Scarborough Shoal and other sites in the South China sea.

Duterte suggested that Beijing and Manila work together to develop and cultivate currently contested natural assets during a speech to government employees on Monday.

He and Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. reiterated the Philippine government’s reluctance to provoke an armed confrontation with southeast Asia’s largest military and economic power. They also said they had no immediate plans to challenge Chinese maritime assertions.

“This we will continue to do for the foreseeable future, until such time that we achieve a trust level that will allow us to discuss the more sensitive issues in our bilateral relations,” said Yasay in a statement on Monday.

In spite of a diplomatic pivot toward China, administration officials say they still stand by the legitimacy of a ruling from the UN Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) that largely sides with the Philippines in territorial disputes.

The United States has expressed support for the PCA’s authority. However, criticism from American officials and policy makers regarding possible human rights abuses occurring amidst the Philippines’

crackdown on illegal drugs have driven a wedge between Manila and Washington.

In late October, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) moved to block the sale of 26,000 rifles to the Philippine National Police (PNP), citing humanitarian concerns. In response, Duterte announced the cancellation of the arms deal during a televised speech on Monday, November 1.

Manila has announced a number of policy decisions this year that would end cooperative arrangements between the Philippine and U.S. militaries.

On Monday, December 12, Malacañang representatives announced they would prohibit the launch of American freedom of navigation patrols from bases in the Philippines. The air and naval missions have elicited condemnation from China, which views them as a challenge to their claims to Sovereignty over the South China Sea. Duterte told reporters that American forces should prepare to leave the Philippines and promised the eventual repeal or abrogation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) shortly after landing in Davao on Saturday, December 17. The bilateral deal provides legal status to U.S. soldiers stationed in the Philippines and gives American military courts jurisdiction over crimes they commit while they are there.

Prior allegations from the Philippine government accusing

Chinese nationals of playing a significant role in the island nation’s illicit drug trade had drawn dismay from officials in China.

However, China has emerged as a substantial sponsor of the Philippines’ nationwide crackdown on crime.

In addition, a chinese businessman with an estimated net worth of $3.9 billion, Huang Rulun, funded the construction of a large drug rehabilitation center at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija earlier this year, according to Reuters and other sources.

The facility opened its doors on Tuesday, November 9 and is capable of treating 10,000 patients.

Those who would prefer to see Duterte take a more assertive stance in the country’s territorial disputes have expressed trepidation in the face of growing cooperation between Manila and Beijing.

“Now, we seem to be on a track to relinquish those gains that have been made to benefit our people,” Albert Del Rosario, the foreign secretary under former president Benigno Aquino III, said in a statement on Monday.

The diplomat who presented the Philippines’ case to the PCA in 2014 added that “we appear to be well on the way to placing the country’s future in the hands of our northern neighbor who… is now effectively demeaning our stand for upholding the rule of law…” n

Dateline USa

A DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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US State Department updates travel warning…

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ganizations in the region that fund their operations by collecting ransom money continues to pose a considerable threat to the safety of foreigners, according to the advisory.

Several other countries, including Germany and Canada, have also officially recommended that their citizens avoid traveling near the South Sulu Sea. Recently, representatives of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) claimed responsibility for kidnapping Jurgen Kantner, a German national who had been sailing on a yacht off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia. His boat was discovered by residents of Laparan Island in Mindanao on Sunday, November 6. The body of a woman matching the description of Kantner’s travel companion, Sabina Wetch, was found on board, according to CNN and other sources.

In April, kidnappers beheaded John Ridsdel, the second of two Canadians killed by the ASG following their abduction from a Samal Island resort. He and fellow Canadian, Robert Hall, along

with Marites Flor of the Philippines and Kjartan Sekkingstad of Norway, were taken hostage on Monday, September 21, 2015.

Hall was executed in June of last year. Flor was released several days after Ridsdel’s death as a gesture of goodwill to the administration of then recently elected Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, according to the Philstar.

After being held captive for nearly a year, Sekkingstad was freed on Saturday, September 17.

Philippine authorities had initially suggested that as much as P100 million had been raised by private sources to pay for Sekkingstad’s freedom. However, President Rodrigo Duterte told reporters during a press conference on Thursday, August 25, that the Philippine government had paid P50 million to the ASG ahead of the Norwegian’s release.

The ASG has collected more than P350 million ($7 million) in ransom this year, according to confidential documents cited by the Associated Press in October.

The largest single payment hap-

pened in January for the release of 14 sailors who had been kidnapped while transporting cargo through the South Sulu Sea. “The ASG shifted in targeting vulnerable foreign-flagged tugboats and their crew due to the focused military operations against the group,” read a portion of the government report, according to the AP. The abduction of shipping crews from Indonesia, Malaysia and elsewhere has put international pressure on the Philippine government to bring an end to ASG kidnappings. Duterte has ramped up military operations in western Mindanao and Sulu this year with the hopes of stamping out the rebel organization.

Domestically, Philippine security forces have been on heightened alert following a bombing that took place in Davao on Saturday, September 3. The incident was attributed to Maute, a group that has pledged solidarity with the Islamic State, and drove Duterte to declare “a state of national emergency.” (Eric Anthony Licas / AJPress)

Sotto on canceled James Taylor concert…

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decision. However, we cannot fault him for basing such decision on incorrect information about our country’s peace and order situation,” PNP spokesperson Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos told reporters.

Carlos said that coming to the

Philippines will be “a firsthand opportunity to prove for himself that there is no alarming EJKs (extrajudicial killings) happening in the country.”

“At the end of the day, it is a loss for him to experience the warmth and hospitality of the music-loving Filipino audience

and also earn his purse from the concert,” the PNP spokesperson added.

Taylor’s concert in Manila, scheduled for February 2017, was supposed to be the last leg of his Asia-Pacific tour.

He clarified, however, that his performances in Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand will still push through.

Ovation Production, the Philippine promoter of the concert, said it tried to convince Taylor to reverse his decision but failed. It also doused the speculations that Taylor canceled his show due to poor ticket sales.

“This type of adult contemporary market is starkly different from that of the millennial market in terms of fans’ buying patterns…A seating plan layout does not explain that older people start buying tickets two weeks prior to the event. It is only young people who buy as soon as artists announce their upcoming concert. Young fans know that tickets can sell out in minutes due to online selling so they buy early. And although tickets to older artists’ concerts are also available online, older audiences have not changed their buying ways,” Renen de Guia of the Ovation Production told the Manila Times. n

President Rodrigo Duterte reviews the troops aboard a military jeep during the 81st anniversary rites of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday, Dec. 21 in Camp Aguinaldo.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

Duterte honors San Jose-based Fil-Am organization with presidential award PHILIPPINES President Rodrigo Roa Duterte conferred Presidential Awards to Pagyamanin Likas Musika (Enrich Native Music) and 22 other distinguished and outstanding overseas Filipinos and foreign-based organizations from 11 countries during the awarding ceremonies for the 2016 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) on December 19 at the Malacañang Palace.

Members of the Diplomatic Corps including the newly aboard U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, Sung Kim were in attendance at the prestigious event.

Founded and served as its Project Director for the last 6 years by George Gange, retired U.S. Navy Chief Air Traffic Controller and former Airport Commissioner San Jose Mineta International Airport (20102014), Pagyamanin Likas Musika is an organization of friends, schoolmates and families based in San Jose, California, which promotes the playing and appreciation of Philippines’ native Rondalla instruments and at the same time provides scholarship programs and livelihood assistance to communities in the Philippines.

In conferring the Lingkod sa

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President Duterte with PLM Founder and Project Director George Gange

UC will support and protect all members of its community

By JANET NAPOLITANO

The University of California is home to more than 250,000 students. They come to us from all over the state, the nation and the world, encompassing diverse ethnicities, faiths, economic backgrounds and personal experiences.

Diversity is one of the many factors that make UC special and successful. We bring together people with many differences, who also happen to share the goals of learning, creating and sharing new knowledge, and making the world a better place.

Among that diverse body of UC students is a population that is especially vulnerable right now: young people who were brought to the United States as children, lacking documentation. These “Dreamers,” as they are known, are deeply rooted in their communities – and ours. They are committed to pursuing their education and continuing to contribute to the only home many of them have ever known.

Over the last four years, many have voluntarily come out of the shadows to enroll in a federal program called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which gives qualified individuals protection against removal from the country and the ability to work lawfully for two years, subject to renewal.

The recent presidential election has caused understandable anxiety and uncertainty among these students. Many of them are worried about public statements made during the presidential campaign and its aftermath. They wonder how new policies and appointments implemented by the incoming administration may affect them and others like them.

These bright students, like all UC students, deserve our protection and support. And they need it now more than ever.

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As President of the University of California, I am strongly committed to continuing to support and protect all members of our university community, including undocumented students. From the earliest days of my presidency at UC, I have acted to ensure that these students are on equal footing with others so they can fulfill their aspirations. That began with the introduction of the UC Undocumented Student Initiative, launched just weeks after I joined the University in 2013. The initiative provides various types of support to undocumented students at UC, and helps pave a path forward for them.

Most recently, UC Chancellors and I reaffirmed our intentions to ensure that every corner of the University of California remains welcoming, safe and inclusive for all, demonstrated by policies we will uphold related to admissions, student records, UC police, UC medical centers, and more.

DACA participants are law-abiding, contributing members of our society, already woven into the rich fabric of America. Now, as President of UC, I will do everything I can – as will our campus chancellors – to ensure that these promising students can continue to pursue the American dream at the University of California, and beyond.

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Dateline USa

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Mumps cases spike, raising questions about need for vaccine boosters

by Rebecca Smith KHN/Side Effects Public Media

READY FOR REVELRY. Children toot horns at a warehouse in Manila. The horns await delivery to retailers ahead of the holidays.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

Duterte honors San Jose-based Fil-Am…

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Kapwa Pilipino (Service to Fellow Filipino) Award to Pagyamanin Likas Musika (Enrich Native Music), the president recognizes its passion in promoting our unique Filipino musical heritage towards building the character of Filipino youth and raising funds to help in relief assistance efforts in calamity-affected areas in the Philippines and other parts of the globe. Music is the language of the soul. For Filipinos who have a knack for creating beautiful melodies using traditional musical instruments, the music they produce ensure that the souls of Filipino youth are ingrained with traits that positively build their characters as productive individuals.

Pagyamanin Likas Musika (PLM) takes off from the love of the rondalla by its founder Mr. George Gange and his desire to see progress for the Philippines.

Serving as a scaled up platform, PLM was established as an informal not for profit organization in February 2010. It primarily aims to help preserve and promote the playing and appreciation of the native Philippine rondalla instruments, while at the same time becoming an agent of change for the Philippines by investing in the future of the children. Aside from sharing the joy of playing the rondalla, the organization aims to train children and students of beneficiary communities and schools in playing and developing an appreciation of rondalla. It would also like the children to eventually become part of a rondalla ensemble that could further spread appreciation of rondalla music through concerts and other performances.

In line with this thrust, the group organized Rondalla Festivals – Kwerdas sa Pagbabago (Strings for Change -2011), 2 Kwerdas sa Kapayapaan (Strings for Peace-2012), Manila and Davao, Kwerdas sa Kaunlaran (Strings for Progress-2013), and

Kwerdas ng Puso (Kwerdas of the Hearts-2015). The Rondalla Festival serves as a platform for children members of communities and schools of the Rondalla Instruments Lending (to own) Program to showcase their newfound skills in playing rondalla instruments. It also offers them the opportunity to build important life skills such as self-confidence, working in harmony with others, and boosting morale and self-esteem that enables them to dream a better quality life for themselves. Going beyond helping the children of beneficiary communities and schools, PLM had also raised funds for calamity victims.

The group has mobilized and donated a total of US$17,450.11 to various relief assistance efforts in calamity stricken areas in the Philippines, U.S., Haiti, and Japan. In 2015, PLM initiated a micro-finance/business development venture that has provided initial capital for a priest and his young parishioners in their Christmas medallion business project, 10 families in Bacoor, Cavite engaged in retail businesses, and women and youth entrepreneurs in Cavite and Bulacan. In addition, the organization has extended scholarship allowance to financially struggling but deserving college students.

The program, which was initiated in 2014, has since supported the education of two college students. One of the students already graduated with a degree in Computer Science at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila) while the other one is in his third year, also taking up computer science in the same school. The organization also gives out community/school service awards in recognition of high school students who make a difference in their schools through volunteer work or actions that may be considered heroic in nature.

Through their love for rondalla

President Duterte with PLM Founder and Project Director George Gange

music and the Philippines, PLM has significantly contributed to changing the lives of Filipino children, their communities, and schools for the better.

Coincidentally, almost exactly six years to the day prior to receiving the Award from Duterte on December 19, PLM Founder George Gange was also bestowed a Presidential Award for personal excellence and contributions to the improvement of the lives in the community where he lives in the bay area and of those in the Philippines by the former Philippines President Benigno S. Aquino III on December 20, 2010. n

MUMPS is back.

Nationwide, it’s worse this year than in a decade, fueled in part by its spread on college campuses.

Although the surge is less severe in California than in some other states, cases here have risen especially since school started, according to data reported by the state to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Statewide, about 80 cases have been reported this year through early December, compared to 39 in all of last year.

In October, a student was diagnosed with mumps at San Diego State University, bringing the total number of cases in the San Diego region at that time to an unusually high 19. San Diego averaged two cases of mumps per year from 2011 to 2014, according to the most recent data from the California Department of Health and Human Services.

Cases have also been reported this year at California State San Marcos and San Diego Christian College.

Since classes began at the University of Missouri in August, school officials have identified 193 mumps cases on campus, with more unreported cases likely. And nationwide, more than 4,000 cases have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — nearly triple the cases in 2015 and the largest spike in 10 years.

Sophomore Caroline Brown got a fever over Thanksgiving break. Soon it became painful to

bite down, and her cheek began to swell. A trip to her physician confirmed it — Caroline had the mumps.

“Mumps kind of sounds like this archaic thing,” Brown said.

“We get vaccinated for it; it just sounds like something that nobody gets. So I just didn’t think that it was possible that I would get it.”

The spike has some public health officials asking questions about the existing vaccine protocol.

Dr. Susan Even, executive director for the University of Missouri’s Student Health Center, said she hasn’t seen anything like the current outbreak in her 31 years at the school.

She said all of the students her team treated for mumps had two MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine doses — a school requirement — but they got sick anyway.

“The fact that we have mumps showing up in highly immunized populations likely reflects something about the effectiveness of the vaccine,” Even said.

Outbreaks are affecting several other universities. More than 300 cases were reported at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and universities such as Iowa State, Tufts and Harvard have seen cases as well.

The largest current outbreak is in the state of Arkansas, which reports over 2,000 cases among school-age children and adults throughout the state since August this year.

Mumps is no longer a particularly common illness, and it rarely causes serious complica-

tions. However, there is no treatment for the viral illness except rest. Common symptoms include swelling in the cheek and neck, fever and pain in the jaw, which can be alleviated by over-thecounter medications.

The symptoms might feel like a flu at first, said Even, “but the characteristic that we look for is pain in the jaw and cheek area and swelling.”

Dr. Janell Routh, a medical epidemiologist for the CDC who specializes in mumps, said it’s not surprising outbreaks are occurring on college campuses, where students often live in close quarters, eat together and party together.

“College campuses provide that perfect medium for the spread of the mumps virus,” Routh said. ”We know a lot of the behaviors that take place on college campuses are amenable to the spread.”

The outbreak in Arkansas has been affecting a more diverse population — school-age children and adults.

Dr. Dirk Haselow, the state’s epidemiologist and medical director of outbreak response, said the state’s health department has been holding clinics in places like churches, and schools to dispense the MMR vaccine.

“We have people working 12 hours a day, seven days a week for months trying to get this under control. It’ s not for lack of effort,” Haselow said.

The severity of the outbreak has Haselow questioning the vaccine dosing protocol.

More than 90 percent of affect-

u PAGE A6

A DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

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

People of color and the poor will be hardest hit by ACA repeal

by Viji

Sundaram NewAmericaMedia

PASTORES-A-BELEN. Dancers wearing colorful dresses perform the Pastores Bicol at Peñaranda Park in honor of the biblical shepherds who sang the first Christmas Carols.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rhaydz Barcia

Asian Americans Advancing Justice applauds dismantling of special registration & urges continued vigilance on ‘Muslim registry’ LOS ANGELES - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced on Thursday, December 22 that it will publish a regulation to rescind the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System (NSEERS) program.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice applauds advocates and the Administration for taking this critical step to protect Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian (AMEMSA) communities who President-elect Trump has vowed to place on a “registry” based on the false and biased assumption that people of a particular religion or nationality pose a greater national security risk and should be subject to racial and religious profiling.

Enacted in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Bush-era program called NSEERS has been roundly criticized, even by internal federal government watchdogs, as being ineffective as an anti-terrorism tool. As a result of NSEERS, over 83,000 boys and men who held non-immigrant visas from 25 Muslim-majority countries were required to register and 13,000 were placed into

removal proceedings. Yet not a single known terrorist conviction resulted from this blanket policy, which detained immigrants, tore families apart, and cut short educational opportunities.

Among the advocacy efforts in support of the NSEERS rescission was a letter to President Obama signed on November 22, 2016 by nearly 200 human rights, civil liberties, education, social justice, and inter-faith organizations; a letter by Members of Congress on the same topic and a petition

by DRUM and Moveon.org with over 135,000 signatures.

“The NSEERS program has been rightly compared by both supporters and opponents to the racially hostile Executive Order 9066, which led to Japanese American internment during World War II, where innocent people including mostly U.S citizens were incarcerated solely on the basis of their national origin,” said Laboni Hoq, Litigation Director at Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles.

“We are encouraged that the Obama administration exercised leadership in taking steps to pre-

vent this dark period of our history from repeating, and we will take the baton and do the same in the coming days.”

“We stand ready to oppose any policies that target or profile AMEMSA communities, which the new Administration may put in place of NSEERS. Regardless of how such policies are packaged, their discriminatory anti-Muslim intent has been well-established by the President-elect’s campaign rhetoric, that was intended to undermine our bedrock Constitutional commitment to religious pluralism and divide us as a nation,” said Elica Vafaie, Staff Attorney for National Security and Civil Rights at Asian Americans Advancing Justice - ALC. “The strong and effective advocacy efforts of AMEMSA communities, civil rights organizations and our allies in the past month illustrates how much stronger and more organized we are today than we were 14 years ago when NSEERS was initiated,” said Megan Essaheb, Assistant Director of Immigration and Immigrants’ Rights at Asian Americans Advancing Justice - AAJC.

PRESIDENT-elect Donald Trump’s threat to repeal and replace Obamacare is bad news for millions of Americans, but the poor and people of color are going to be hit hardest, say health care advocates.

“The winners and losers from repealing Obamacare will depend crucially on the details of whatever replacement plan materializes,” said Larry Levitt, senior vice president for special initiatives at the Kaiser Family Foundation during a webinar Dec. 19. “ Based on what those replacement plans look like so far, it seems that the poor and people with pre-existing medical conditions could end up worse off.”

Approximately 20 million people have gotten coverage since the launch of Obamacare.

Trump has yet to reveal details of what he plans to do to the 2010 Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare, other than to say that he intends to dismantle it soon after he takes office. It’s likely that some parts of it will be left untouched – like the pre-existing condition provision – and replacement could be delayed by a couple of years.

The webinar was organized by the non-profit California Health Care Foundation (CHCF), to give journalists an overview of what California, the state that took the lead in implementing some of the key provisions of Obamacare, could face if Trump makes good on his threat.

Among those provisions were

ble amount of revenue,” to go it alone, pointed out Adams.

“It would be difficult for any individual state to try to raise the money required and provide benefits comparable to the ACA,” Levitt said. “That would put the state significantly at odds with other states in terms of tax rates and public benefits.”

But critics of the ACA say that one of the least popular provisions of the law – forcing individuals to have health insurance and companies to cover their employees or face a penalty – would be eliminated with a repeal. An estimated $1.3 billion would be lost in eliminated penalties.

One idea Trump’s advisory team has been floating is to allow insurance carriers to sell insurance across state borders, something some insurers already do.

That could come with its own set of problems, Levitt said, because it could drive people to states where the insurance industry is less regulated. He said California has been able to rein in its providers to some degree because of “its stringent regulations.”

Levitt pointed out that the safety net provided by Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC), clinics that provide health care to underserved communities, would weaken if the ACA were repealed. Those unable to retain their insurance coverage would likely flock to FQHCs, putting an extra burden on them.

“There are a lot of moving pieces,” at this time, Levitt said.

“No doubt that people are split on the ACA,” he said. “But ACA is status quo.” n

Mumps cases spike, raising questions…

PAGE A5 t

ed children and 30 to 40 percent of affected adults were vaccinated, according to state data. But Haselow said those adult vaccination rates are typical and don’t explain the outbreak.

“If you look at MMR vaccination coverage rates in adults, that’s middle of the road,” Haselow said. “It was incorporated into the childhood immunization schedule in the ’80s.”

Normally, people only receive two doses of the vaccine, but in Arkansas and also at the University of Missouri, officials are now recommending a third dose.

It’s not clear if a third dose is effective in preventing the spread ment officials.

Philippines’ illegal drug trade of mumps. The CDC has not isby Eric anthony LicaS “We have been watching the has prompted condemnation AJPress house for more than a month af- from officials in Manila.

PHILIPPINE law enforcement ter an informant came to authoriAmidst a warming of ties be- available for the purchase of in the Metro Manila City of San ties, telling us about the illegal tween the Philippines and China, more equipment.

Juan may have made the larg- drugs trade in the area,” Eastern Beijing has provided the Island Meanwhile, outgoing U.S. est drug bust yet in the nation’s Police District chief Romulo Sa- nation with considerable mate- President Barack Obama and ongoing war on drugs on Friday, pitula told Reuters on Friday. rial and financial support for its White House officials have conDecember 23.

In November, Philippine au- efforts to stamp out the under- sistently voiced concerns regardAgents from the National thorities had sought four Chinese ground drug trade. ing alleged human rights abuses Bureau of Investigation (NBI) nationals in connection with the On Monday, December 19, committed in connection with collected 560 kg of what they discovery of a methamphetamine Chinese Ambassador to the the Philippines’ crackdown on believe to be shabu, or metham- lab in Pampanga. It was the fifth Philippines Zhao Jianhua of- crime. phetamine, more than the total drug production facility in that fered Philippines security forces Since July, nearly 6,000 deaths amount seized in police opera- region shut down by police this a gift of over $14 million worth have been linked to the country’s tions for all of 2015. Police ar- year, some of which were ca- of arms and other hardware dur- war on drugs according to starested three Filipinos and three pable of producing hundreds of ing a conversation with Duterte. tistics released by the Philippine either Chinese or Taiwanese na- pounds of illicit product a day.

The Chinese government is also National Police (PNP) on Montionals, according to law enforceForeign involvement in the making $500 million in soft loans day, December 12.

PH law enforcement make largest drug bust to date

expanding Medi-Cal (California’s name for Medicaid) and setting up a health insurance marketplace for people to purchase federally subsidized coverage best suited to their budget, said Amy Adams, CHCF’s senior program officer. Additionally, even before the ACA became law, the state banned the prevalent practice of gender-based premium cost variations – younger women were paying more than men.

As a result of its robust implementation, the state’s uninsured rate for residents under 65 fell by nearly half, from 22 percent in 2009 to 9.5 percent in 2015, according to a California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). More low-income people who historically were shut out of health insurance were able to gain coverage, as were people in minority communities.

The survey showed that uninsured rates fell by nearly 7 percent among Asian Americans and African Americans, and 6.5 percent among Latinos.

More than 10 percent of the populations in the counties of Fresno, Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Joaquin and Tulare got coverage, according to a just-released UC Berkeley Labor Center study.

A repeal would mean that California would lose around $20 billion in annual federal funding for Medi-Cal expansion and Covered California subsidies, making it virtually impossible for it to continue offering those programs.

“It is a very large amount of money and would be difficult for the state to generate a compara-

sued an official recommendation, stating in an online report from July: “The effectiveness of a third dose of MMR vaccine has not been established, but rationale exists for its use in outbreak settings.” However, both the state of Arkansas and the University of Missouri are hoping this will help stem the outbreaks.

Haselow said he also worries there may be something about this particular outbreak that is making the mumps vaccine less effective against it.

“Despite all that effort, we still continue to see this outbreak worsen. And we are concerned that the outbreak may indicate something unusual,” he said.

He explained that the mumps vaccine was developed in the 1960s using one specific strain of mumps, and now some of the cases showing up in Arkansas are a different strain.

“We are wondering whether the circulating strains have evolved away from the vaccine,” Haselow said.

Researchers at the CDC aren’t sure they agree yet, according to a spokesperson, but they will be examining the data from the Arkansas outbreak once it is declared over. Haselow said that some samples have already been collected and sent to the CDC for analysis.

Haslow stressed that the mumps vaccine is still the most effective protection against mumps infections. It makes it less likely you will contract mumps and greatly reduces the chances for severe complications if you do.

Complications are rare but include things like swelling in the testicles, meningitis and deafness that can have lasting implications.

“Vaccines reduce your risk of mumps ninefold. We’re 100 percent positive that these vaccines are preventing the severe manifestations of mumps,” Haselow said. “So they are helping, but they’re not perfect.”

Back at the University of Missouri, some students are treating the outbreak as a joke referring to the last month or so as “Mumps 2k16.”

Brown said that she knows several students who have or had the mumps, and she has even more friends who say they wish they could get mumps before finals.

“I definitely wouldn’t wish it on anyone, but if people would rather have mumps than take their accounting final, then I guess I can’t blame them,” Brown said.

This story was produced by Side Effects Public Media, a news collaborative covering public health. n

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A

PH military conducts own combined arms exercise

by AJPress

THE Philippines held its own combined arms exercise, aiming to strengthen its army’s warfighting capabilities.

The 11-day exercise, led by the Philippine Army’s Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) under Brig. Gen. Herminigildo Francisco C. Aquino, was held in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija, and ended last Tuesday, December 19.

Six hundred ninety-four students from different schools, such as Combat Arms School, Combat Support School, Combat Service Support School, Army FIRST BUDGET. President Rodrigo Duterte signs the P3.35-trillion 2017 national budget in the presence of lawmakers. Beside the President are Senate President Aquilino Pimentel 3rd (seated, left) and House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez (seated, right).

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

Duterte signs P3.35 trillion ‘pro-people’ budget for 2017

by DAnA

sioson AJPress

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, December 22, signed into to law the country’s P3.35 trillion budget for 2017.

The Republic Act 10924 or the General Appropriations Act (GAA), which is 11.6 percent higher than the 2016 budget, has been so far the largest annual budget assembled by any Philippine administration.

“The signing of the GAA (General Appropriations Act) affirms the national government commitment to support the needs of our people, to enhance basic social services and project,” Duterte said.

He assured that the budget, which also the represents 21 percent of the projected gross domestic product (GDP) for 2017, will be “pro-people, pro-investment, pro-growth, and pro-development.”

“I have said this before and I will reiterate it. The budget is useless if the Filipino is not at its center. This budget is a credible

budget where every peso will be monthly rice allowance to ensure spent for the governments, for that there is food on the table for the gains of the Filipino people,” every Filipino family,” Duterte u PAGE A9 he stressed.

In next year’s annual budget, the Department of Education (DepEd) received the highest allocation, with P544.1 to fund education facilities, salaries of teaching and non-teaching personnel, and the development of learning resources.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) was also given P18.7 billion to give poor but deserving Filipinos access to tertiary education.

On the other hand, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Health (DOH) was given the budget allocation of P128.3 billion and P96.3 billion respectively.

The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. was also given P53.22 billion to fund the universal health care program.

“This annual amount includes 78.2 billion for the Conditional Cash Transfer program. CCT beneficiaries will also receive a

Leadership Development Center, Armor School, Intelligence School, and Civil-Military Operations School, participated in the drill. Two engineer platoon students of the Philippine Navy also took part in the exercise.

“By synchronizing combined arms and applying them simultaneously, maneuver units can achieve a greater effect. To integrate all arms into the fight, maneuver leaders must have an understanding of systems’ capabilities and employment methods that go beyond individual branch competencies,” Aquino explained.

“Importantly, maneuver lead-

ers must be able to integrate, not only Army, but also Air Force and Navy service capabilities into operations with a particular emphasis on joint intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and fire capabilities,” he added.

Among the activity highlights include: military operation in urban terrain; battle drills and situational exercises; field training exercises; live fire exercises of 105 howitzers and mortars; and command post exercise.

At the same time, the Philippine Air Force executed close air support, troops insertion and casualty evacuation exercises. n

Robredo alarmed over Duterte remarks on daily executions the death penalty is restored.

Robredo noted the results of a Social Weather Stations survey MANILA — Vice President Leni which showed that 78 percent Robredo on Wednesday, Dec. 21 of adult Filipinos fear that they expressed alarm over President would become victims of extrajuRodrigo Duterte’s recent remark dicial killings.

“Binigo natin and sambayanan that he wants to execute five or six death row convicts daily once kung pati ang mga inosenteng

by PAtriciA LourDes Philstar.com

VirAy

tao ay natatakot at pinangangambahan ang kanilang kaligtasan,” Robredo said in a statement.

The vice president suggested that the administration should instead focus on the needs of the Filipino people such as employment, quality education and

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Features

Selective respect for rights RESPECT human rights and humanitarian law and uphold the rule of law in all operations, President Duterte told the Armed Forces of the Philippines the other day. The AFP was celebrating its 81st anniversary, and the statement was issued a day after the United Nations human rights chief called on Philippine authorities to investigate the President for killings that he reportedly committed personally or endorsed.

Although the President yesterday continued to defend his vicious war on illegal drugs, the order to the AFP raises hope among rights advocates. The AFP has been criticized in the past for human rights violations and alleged extrajudicial killings, with retired Army general Jovito Palparan dubbed as “the butcher” and portrayed as the poster boy for military abuses.

AFP officials have insisted that all killings were done in the course of legitimate counterinsurgency or counterterrorism operations. Military officers have also complained of violations not only of their human rights but also of rules on the conduct of warfare by enemies of the state, who are not bound by international agreements.

Human rights advocates are waiting for the Pres-

ident to issue a similar directive to the Philippine National Police, which is waging the bloody war on drugs that has so far claimed nearly 6,000 lives in just six months. Rights advocates may have a long wait ahead.

The President’s adherence to human rights appears to be reserved only for the troops fighting the lowlifes who torch and pillage villages, burn churches, kidnap and mutilate victims, and bomb businesses and public utility towers. For those who are addicted to drugs, there is no mercy and rights are non-existent.

Like justice, respect for human rights cannot be selective. Soldiers cannot play nice with their foes while police are freely shooting to kill. There cannot be opposing marching orders for the military and police. (Philstar.com)

Guest Editorial

Philstar.com photo

Trivia questions you can use in your Christmas parties ASIDE from the Christmas feast, Christmas carols, and gift giving, one of the highly anticipated parts of our family Christmas celebration are the games — particularly the Christmas trivia. Those who answer correctly win a prize while those who do not will have to do something crazy as ordered by the game master (my husband), like in truth or consequence.

Every year, we look for trivia to include in the game, which somehow enlightens us more about the Christmas tradition.

ABS-CBN News compiled a few global trivia you may want to ask in your Christmas games.

Here are some of them: The word “Christmas” comes from the Old English name “Christes Maesse,” which means “Christ’s Mass.”

The common abbreviation of Christmas to “Xmas” is derived from the Greek alphabet.

“Chi,” the first letter of Christ’s name in the Greek alphabet, is written as “X.” Before Western Christians decided on De-

system. cember 25 to celebrate the birth Germans made the first of Jesus, several dates were The Fil-Am artificial Christmas trees, proposed: January 2, March 21, which are made of dyed goose March 25, April 18, April 19, Perspective feathers.

May 20, May 28, and November The earliest known Christ20. mas tree decorations were In Germany, Christmas Eve apples. is said to be a magical time of A 2010 study on Facebook the year when the pure in heart Gel SantoS-ReloS posts showed that two weeks can hear animals talking.

Santa Claus is based on a real person, St. before Christmas is the most popular time for Nikolas of Myra, the world’s most popular non- couples to break up. Christmas Day, on the other hand, is the least favorite day for breakups. biblical saint.

There are 364 gifts in the popular holiday Santa Claus has different names in different countries: Sheng Dan Lao Ren in China, Fa- carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

The two biggest selling Christmas songs ther Christmas in England, Papa Noel in Brazil are “White Christmas” and “Rudolph the Redand Peru, and Pere Noel in France.

Santa Claus’s sleigh is led by nine rein- Nosed Reindeer.”

The smallest Christmas card was made by deer: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph, the red- scientists at the University of Glasgow in the nosed reindeer. Norwegian scientists have hy- United Kingdom in 2010. At only 200 x 290 mipothesized that Rudolph’s red nose may be the crometers in size, 8,276 of these cards would fit result of a parasitic infection of his respiratory in one postage stamp.

The most expensively dressed Christmas tree was valued at $11,026,900 and was displayed by the Emirates Palace in the United Arab Emirates last year.

The largest artificial Christmas tree measures 170.6 feet and can be found in Brazil.

The largest Christmas star ornament measures 103 feet and eight inches tall and can be found in India.

The largest Christmas stocking measures about 168 feet in length and 70 feet in width, and can be found in Italy.

The most lights lit on simultaneously on a Christmas tree is 194,672 and was achieved by Kiwanis Malmedy and Haute Fagnes Belgium in Belgium last year.

Merry Christmas to you all! *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

The Family of Jesus Christ: A Simbang Gabi homily by Rev. Fr. Rodel Balagtas “CAN you by worrying about yourself, change the person you really are?

Does your anxious thought help to pay bills, does it make your work succeed, does it reap the harvest or fill the barn?

You are a spiritual being, and your life is lived from within out. Relax and let go, and let life fulfill itself in you and as you.” — Eric Butterworth, “Discover the Power Within You: A Guide to the Unexplored Depths Within”, 1989.

Have you seen folks flock to greet their former pastor? Well, I did! Fr. Rodel was described by one of his former parishioners, Noel, as a magnet, a glue of some sorts, who unified the parishioners of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in East Hollywood, Los Angeles, California.

For me, Fr. Rodel is a visionary pastor, whose holiness is reflected in moral alignment: his faith-based demeanor fueled by positive enthusiasm, openness to cultures, joy and a deep sense of empathy and love for all peoples. He empathizes with Latinos, speaks their language and immerses in their cultures. He does the same with Filipinos and Jews.

On night two of Simbang Gabi, he was invited to be the principal celebrant, and he concelebrated it with Fr. Alex Aclan and Fr. Paolo del Carmen, while Brother Josh Diener helped out.

Fr. Rodel’s homily was both in English and Tagalog, showing his desire to address the English-speakers in the parish, as well as those who spoke Tagalog.

He started a conversation with a grandma, a lola, in Tagalog. He asked her where she is from to which she said, Davao. He answered, “Ah, Duterte’s province.” Then, she asked him the same question, and he answered, “Pampanga.” “Ah, so related to Gloria Macapagal.” Then, she asked “what is your surname?” Fr. Rodel answered, “Balagtas.” “Do you know the pastor Balagtas who was always fundraising to the point that he was labeled -- ‘mukhang-pera?” Then, she said, “Ang ganda-ganda po ng simbahan.”

(The church is really a beautiful structure). Now, Fr. Rodel fessed up - “Ako po iyon.” She is surprised, “How come you are now bald?” He says, “Di bale po, gwapo pa rin.” (Still handsome).

The parishioners all laughed.

That was enough to wake us all up, some half-sleep. This was 5 a.m. mass in East Hollywood and the parking lots were full with no spaces to spare, even for the former pastor. (In the past, visiting priests had reserved parking spots).

Heavy rain and cold wind were not enough to deter any of these parishioners from coming.

“We read about Jesus’s genealogy, the bloodline of his ancestors. Why did we read about this,” he asked?

It was written to prove to folks then that Jesus is the Messiah, the true one who came from the lineage of David and Abraham, a necessary, vital family line, during Jesus’ time.

“What else could be the reason,” he asked? He is preaching to a rapt audience who wants to hang onto every word he uttered.

“What are the motives?” He helps us out, “to discover that Jesus is the truth, the way, and the life. We need to display the flag of being a Christian nowadays.

There are many problems in the world today, but we are, after all, siblings and family members of Jesus Christ, by virtue of water of baptism and the Holy Spirit,” he said.

Then, he asked, “who is watching GMA’s AlDub?” This is the teleserye that has caught the national imagination of Filipinos in the Philippines, whose one episode attracted over 10,000 in one venue. You remember that one said, “Tamang Panahon, “ he asked.

Just like that “tamang panahon (appropriate time),” we too need to share and to express to others we are Christians.”

“That story of Jesus is our story, our stories are stories of God,” he had us call to mind what Fr. Randy Odchigue once said in his homily, and Fr. Rodel continues, “We need to discover we are siblings, relatives of Jesus Christ, whether we have sharp or flat noses.”

Now, in a collective call for critiques - he asked, “Is this happening? Is this what we are, true Christians? Do we know how to love, do we know how to forgive, do we know how to unite?

This is the challenge of every parish, of every community, of every nation. For 12 years, we are together. To me, this parish is special. Kahit magmukha akong pera (even if I am accused as concerned about funds), I hope we became one true family in discovering our faith, the genealogy of Jesus, that we are one in Baptism, we are a family, cultivating this unity amongst all of us.”

He was on a roll and the audience was Rev. Fr. Rodel Balagtas preaching (Photo by Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D.) we deserve a good pastor, that we bewrapped up in all his words: “Are we discovering the mercy have as children of God, a family, that of God -- that in our brokenness, in our God’s mercy is on us and we need to be human imperfections, Jesus became merciful towards one another. Simbang part of us. Tamar - was a prostitute, Gabi is about Emmanuel, God is here.”

Then, he closes with: a deceiver, a liar, she dressed up as a Simbang Gabi/hindi simbang tabi/ harlot, she wanted to have a child of Judah and she bore twin sons, Perez and hindi simbang landi/hindi simbang tuZerah, and she did that as a result of de- log/hindi porma porma lang sa tabi. ception. Rahab, the mother of Boaz by (Simbang Gabi is not to be on the marSalmon was another harlot in Jericho. gins, it is not to flirt, it is not to sleep, it King David was a wife-stealer. He had is not to simply put on the veneer).

With that, the congregation erupted Uriah, the Hittite, killed to take Uriah’s in spontaneous applause. This is a very wife, Bathsheba for himself.”

He continued, “Jesus did not come to perceptive and sensitive congregaa perfect family, he was born into a lin- tion, they show their appreciation quite eage of thieves, prostitutes, liars. This spontaneously!

With that, the choir gave us their most is the year of mercy, we are called to “Be Merciful as your Father is,” there’s beautiful singing, as the day before! It so much hatred in the world, people de- was a special day of worship on the secstroying each other --- it is the year to ond day of the nine-day novena masses, be merciful as the Father is. The second culminating on Dec. 24 at 5 a.m.

P.S. I stumbled onto this Church about discovery is truth, the person of Jesus Christ - Raise the flag of Christianity. seven years ago. Fr. Rodel welcomed Misericordes sicut pater! It is the right me, as he did, my friends. At one time, time and the right moment to show that Simbang Gabi was a magnet for local

press media, consular officials, small business owners, and even Lutherans.

Fr. Rodel welcomed all and brought some of his priests/friends from parts of the U.S. and some from the Philippines to give homilies to us during Simbang Gabi. Those were special moments of multicultural faith-based solidarity! We all became spiritual members of one family, the family of Jesus Christ! *** Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D. writes a weekly column for Asian Journal, called “Rhizomes.” She has been writing for AJ Press for 9 years now. She contributes to Balikbayan Magazine. Her training and experiences are in science, food technology, law and community volunteerism for 4 decades. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of the Philippines, a law degree from Whittier College School of Law in California and a certificate on 21st Century Leadership from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. She has been a participant in NVM Writing Workshops taught by Prof. Peter Bacho for 4 years and Prof. Russell Leong.

She has travelled to France, Holland, Belgium, Japan, Mexico and 22 national parks in the US, in pursuit of her love for arts.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 24-27, 2016

A

2016 remittances projected to reach ‘all-time high’ of $28B

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

THE overseas Filipino workers (OFW) remittances are forecasted to reach an all-time high of $28 in 2016, as reported by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

According to OWWA Chief Hans Cacdac, the Philippine Department of Finance (DOF) also announced during the OWWA board meeting on Tuesday, December 20 that there was an increase in the remittances of OFWs during the 3rd quarter of 2016.

“I heard $24-B as of the 3rd quarter and we are expected to hit $28-B at the end of the year which is an all-time high,” Cacdac said in a press conference on Wednesday, December 21.

Cacdac attributed the increase in remittances mostly to the money sent by Filipinos who were based in the Middle East and the United States.

“Kasi kung titingnan niyo ang BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) data, makikita doon, matetrace doon, kung kaninong bangko ipinadala at usually nauuwi yun sa Middle East and then yung mga Filipino din natin, kababayan

natin, sa United States (Because if you look at the BSP data, you can trace the bank and usually it lead to the Middle East and to our fellow Filipinos in the US),” he noted.

On the other hand, the yearend remittances in 2015 have reached to $25.6 billion, as previously revealed by the BSP. At the same time, Cacdac said that around 100,000 to 150,000 Filipino workers were expected to return to the Philippines during the Christmas season. The rate is the usual figure for returning Filipinos this time of year. n

Palace wishes Erap ‘speedy and full’ recovery GIFT-GIVING. An employee of Globe Telecom gives a gift to a patient of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH). Globe and shareholder Singtel are donors to a PGH rehabilitation project.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada

Cardinal Santos Hospital in San Juan City two days ago and was diagnosed to have slight infecMALACANANG on Friday, tion in the lungs.

“The Palace wishes the speedy Dec. 23 wished the “speedy and full recovery” of former president and full recovery of former presiresentative Karlo Nograles, who and now Manila Mayor Joseph dent and Manila Mayor Joseph is also the chairman of the appro- Estrada after he was confined at a Estrada,” Andanar siad in a statement. priations committee at the House hospital because of pneumonia.

The Palace official described Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejerof Representatives, the 2017 Estrada as the mayor who “recito said Estrada was brought to GAA “concretizes the president’s commitment in bringing meaningful change to the country.”

“The national budget spells out in very clear terms the policy of the Duterte administration and that is to take care of the poor and marginalized sectors of society, with 40 percent going to social services,” Nograles said.

He added the allocations were “meant to grow our economy even more and accelerate economic activities particularly in the countryside and rural areas, with nearly 30 percent spending on economic services next year 2017.” n by neStor

CorraleS Inquirer.net

Duterte signs P3.35 trillion…

PAGE A7 t

noted.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), meanwhile, got P148 billion for projects, mostly to be used in the administration’s war on drugs such as building new jail facilities and increasing the allowance of prisoners.

A P486.9 billion was also given to local governments for development programs.

“The national intensification and the household electrification program in off-grid areas will also be prioritized. Included in the budget of herein is the 1.1 billion budget, an increase of 38.4 from its 2016 budget is the electrification efforts for remote areas,” the president added.

Furthermore, the Department of Defense (DND) was granted a P137.2 billion, while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) a P454.7 billion, and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) a P53.3 billion.

“We will pursue the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Modernization Program for the maintenance of major equipment, aircraft vessels and increase in ammunition capacity as well as the veterans’ hospitalization benefits,” Duterte said.

On the other hand, and allocation of P45.2 billion and P9.8 billion was provided to the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) respectively.

According to Davao City Rep-

gained Manila’s lost glory.”

“The National Competitiveness Council named it the most competitive city in the Philippines.

Get well soon, Mayor Erap!,” he said.

Estrada is now on his second term as Manila mayor after narrowly beating former mayor Alfredo Lim in the May national elections. n

Robredo alarmed over Duterte…

PAGE A7 t

health care services.

“Ang tunay na sagot sa pagsupil sa mga krimen ay ang maigting na pagpapatupad ng mga batas at ang pagtutulungan ng mamamayan at pamahalaan,” the vice president said.

Duterte has been pushing for the reimposition of the death penalty. The president said that restoring capital punishment would help deter crime.

The House of Representatives committee on justice has approved the death penalty bill, paving the way for plenary debates.

However, members of the House voted todefer the approval of the death penalty bill from this month to early next year. n Vice President Leni Robredo

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A10 DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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FIREARMS DEAL

JV Ejercito acquitted

by Vince

F. nonato Inquirer.net

APPOINTED. Cesar Montano on Tuesday, Dec. 20 has been officially sworn in as the new Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer. Montano took his oath of office before Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo. Teo received Montano’s appointment paper on December 7. The actor was appointed to the post by President Rodrigo Duterte. Montano will handle domestic and international marketing and promotion of the Philippines as a major global tourism destination.

Inquirer.net photo

Sandigan to resolve Jejomar Binay’s bid to dismiss cases by elizabeth

Marcelo Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang said her division is now working double time to resolve the motion of former Vice President Jejomar Binay praying for the dismissal of his various criminal cases in connection with the alleged overpriced construction of the P2.2 billion Makati parking building.

“Minamadali na din namin actually, kasi of course this is part of our efforts to speed up the resolution of cases,” Tang said in a press conference Friday.

In July of this year, the Office of the Ombudsman filed four counts of graft, nine counts of falsification of public documents and one count of malversation against Binay. Meanwhile, his son, former Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr. was charged with four counts of graft, six counts of falsification and one count of malversation.

Also charged as co-accused of the Binay father and son were 22 other former and incumbent officials of Makati City.

However, the Sandiginbayan Third Division chaired by Tang has yet to rule on whether there is probable cause to proceed with a full-blown trial of the

THE Sandiganbayan has acquitted Sen. JV Ejercito of charges of graft in connection to the purchase of high-powered firearms by San Juan City when he was mayor in 2008, leading to the lifting of his 90-day suspension from the Senate.

The senator had only begun serving his suspension on Nov. 8, after losing an appeal before the Supreme Court. In a 45-page resolution, the antigraft court’s Fifth Division granted the demurrer filed by Ejercito and five other city officials, effectively dismissing the graft case for lack of evidence.

Also acquitted were: city administrator Ranulfo Dacalos, city attorney Romualdo delos Santos, treasurer Rosalinda Estrella Marasigan, budget officer Lorenza Catalan Ching and engineer Danilo Salcedo Mercado.

The graft case concerned the alleged anomalies in the award of the P2.1-million contract to lone bidder HK Tactical Defense System Inc. for the purchase of 17 units of Daewoo K1 5.56mm cal.

Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito.

submachine guns, three units of Daewoo K2 5.56mm submachine guns and 10 units of HK UMP .45 cal. Nato submachine guns.

The payment allegedly came from the city’s calamity funds.

State prosecutors also said that city officials hastily conducted the procurement process without competitive bidding and questioned why specific brands of firearms were requested.

The Fifth Division, however, said the specification of the brand and name of firearms “never came from accused Ejercito or his coaccused,” as these

Lyn Rillon/inquirer.net file photo

were not contained in his request letter. These brands were mentioned in the city ordinances passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan instead.

“In this respect, it may be correctly argued that it should be the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod who should be held responsible for such inclusion or specification,” the resolution stated.

Ejercito on Thursday, Dec. 22 welcomed the decision of the Sandiganbayan clearing him of the graft charge. (With a report from Christine O. Avendaño)

Witnesses in Pasig teen’s slay heard gunman say: ‘It’s not him’

by Jodee

a. agoncillo Inquirer.net

In July of this year, the Office of the Ombudsman filed four counts of graft, nine counts of falsification of public documents and one count of malversation against former Vice President Jejomar Binay.

OVP/File

cases.

Tang said this is because the court is taking its time to resolve the respective Motions for Judicial Determination of Probable Cause filed by the Binays and the other respondents.

In their motions, the Binay father and son, as well as their co-accused, prayed for the dismissal of the cases citing various grounds including lack of evidence and the absence of the elements of the offenses charged against them, such as conspiracy.

Tang said the court is faced with more than 20 motions in

connection with the cases.

“It’s under study because there are many accused and they have filed separate motions...

Siyempre hihimay-himayin mo yun isa-isa para (you have to carefully study each motion so) you can come up with a judicious determination of all the grounds that are raised in their individual motions.

“Hindi naman basta mo na lang ide-deny ‘yan or iga-grant ‘yan without justifying its denial or its grant (you cannot simply deny or grant the motion without justifying the grounds for such

u PAGE A11

THE teachers, classmates and neighbors of Emmanuel Lorica cry for justice as they dispute what the police have said about the 17-year-old student who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen at an evacuation center in Pasig City earlier this month.

They have offered prayers for the young man, who witnesses to the attack said was a victim of mistaken identity because his shooter was heard saying “Hindi ito (It’s not him),” right after putting a bullet in his head.

The 10th grader, a city government scholar who belonged to a star section at Eusebio High School (EHS), was killed while asleep next to his girlfriend on Dec. 6 inside one of the tents sheltering 15 families displaced by a fire in Barangay Rosario’s Tramo area.

In an interview with Inquirer on Monday, Lorica’s guidance teacher Mildred Manubag said the school community remains in mourning as students talk about the incident on social media particularly to belie the victim’s alleged links to the drug trade.

A report by the Pasig police said Lorica was included in the barangay watch list as user/pusher.

Barangay Rosario chair Aquilino dela Cruz said the slain student was not on the local drug watch list,

Emmanuel Lorica

but a separate investigation he conducted had the same findings about Lorica being a “runner” for a drug dealer.

But Manubag maintained: “He was a very bright and sweet child. He was even part of the city scholarship program. He was clean. He was not involved in any trouble since he started studying here. He did not look like an addict and he was not a courier in school.”

Lorica was one of the recipients of the Bobby C. Eusebio (BCA) scholarship, a program named after

u PAGE A11

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 24-27, 2016

A11

SolGen gives De Lima Bar exam result dare: One with lower score quits

by TeTch

Torres-Tupas Inquirer.net

DE LIMA IN BERLIN. Sen. Leila M. De Lima spoke before delegates of the Annual Conference on Cultural Diplomacy 2016 held at the Academy of Cultural Diplomacy last Dec. 18 where she warned them against “authoritarian leaders who excel at manipulation” and who have been able “to prey on our fears and self-interests to divide and conquer us.” De Lima was the only Filipino leader who was invited to address the conference, along with world leaders and dignitaries.

Senate photo

Witnesses in Pasig teen’s slay…

PAGE A10 t

the incumbent Pasig mayor.

On Dec. 12, his schoolmates and teachers offered prayers for Lorica, whose remains were brought to his hometown in the Bicol region. Lorica’s mother was in Dubai and his auntie served as his guardian, Manubag added.

His girlfriend, a fellow EHS student, remained inconsolable and had missed class for days.

“Isn’t it enough that we lost our homes to the fire? Why (Lorica)? We were not doing anything wrong. You were a good man;

you didn’t have enemies. Why would people kill someone so defenseless? He was just sleeping!” the girl said in a Facebook post.

“You could have just kicked him to wake him up and asked him questions,” she said, in a message addressed to the killer.

“What did you do to him? You don’t know him. Just because your asset told you he was the target, you kill him just like that?

He had dreams.”

According to witnesses, about eight unfamiliar men arrived at the evacuation site, appearing to

be searching for someone. One of them, who would turn out to be the gunman, peered into some tents before finding the one occupied by Loric The teenager was lying on his back, with a towel covering his face, when he was shot in the head, one witness told the Inquirer.

When the shooter removed the towel, he was heard saying: “Hindi ito.”

The gunman and his seven lookouts then pulled out of the area, fleeing on motorbikes. n

administration’s demolition job in connection with the 2016 elections in which the older Binay ran for president.

PDAF cases Meanwhile, Tang said the anti-graft court is also poised to speed up the trial of cases against former and incumbent lawmakers charged in connection with the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam.

Tang said 2017 is a promising year for the anti-graft court as the trial proper of the cases against former Sens. Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. is about to commence in January.

It was in June 2014 when the Ombudsman filed plunder and graft cases against Revilla, Estrada, former Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile as well as the alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles.

Revilla, Estrada and Napoles

remain in detention after the Sandiganbayan denied their respective motions to post bail. Enrile, on the other hand, was granted bail by the Supreme Court (SC) in August 2015.

The trial of the cases against Enrile remains in limbo after he filed in October of this year a motion to quash seeking the dismissal of the cases.

“Sa Third Division, in the case of former Senator Enrile, if these motions to quash were not filed, probably we would have started (the trial) already,” Tang said.

“But as said by the Supreme Court, it should not only be speed. At the same time, there should also be justice. So sabi nila (SC), justice must not be placed at the mercy of speed.

They should both go together...

That is what we are trying to do, the best way we can do it,” Tang said. n

FOR saying he has an “empty skull,” Solicitor-General Jose Calida on Wednesday, Dec. 21 dared Senator Leila De Lima to show her Bar examination score in Criminal Law and whoever has the lower score should resign.

“I hereby put a challenge to De Lima. She accused me that I have an empty skull. She was former Secretary of Justice, I challenge her to reveal her grade in Criminal Law during the Bar exams,” Calida said.

“If her grade is higher than mine, then I will resign as Solicitor-General. But if my grade is higher than hers, she should resign as senator of the Philippines,” Calida added.

Aside from saying that he has an empty skull, De Lima called Calida a “sycophant” after he labeled her as “Public Enemy Number 1” for deploring the unabated extrajudicial killings (EJKs) of suspected drug dealers and users.

“She accused me of calling enemies names (but) that is an

Solicitor-General Jose Calida

appropriate epithet for her. The proliferation of drugs is the primary concern of our country and the main policy of the Duterte administration is to suppress drugs.

But since she was responsible for the proliferation of drugs in the New Bilibid Prison (NBP), then she is public enemy number one,” Calida said adding that his

new epithet for her is the “diva of drugs” in the country.

Calida passed the 1973 Bar examination with a perfect score in Criminal Law. De Lima, on the other hand, ranked 8th in the 1985 Bar examination.

Calida appeared before the Department of Justice (DOJ) as Tribune of the People, representing the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) and Reynaldo Esmeralda and Ruel Lasala, former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) deputy directors.

Calida’s appearance was opposed by De Lima’s lawyer Atty.

Filibon Tacardon.

He said there may rise a conflict in the event the cases reach the courts.

But the DOJ panel led by Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Peter Ong said what is important in the preliminary investigation stage is that the complainant is present in the proceedings and ably represented by counsel regardless of whether it is the Office of the Solicitor General or private lawyers. n

Sandigan to resolve Jejomar Binay’s…

PAGE A10 t

decision),” she added.

In the case information sheets, the Ombudsman said the Binay father and son, during their respective terms as mayor of Makati, conspired with the other respondents to carry out a sham bidding as well as the overpriced construction of the P2.28-billion Makati City Hall Building II also referred as the Makati parking building.

The Ombudsman said the implementation of the project, which was divided into five phases, took place from 2007 to 2013 despite the absence of approved design standards, contract plans, agency cost estimates, detailed engineering and programs of work, among others.

The Binays had earlier vehemently denied the allegations claiming that the filing of the cases was part of the previous

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Simbang Gabi in downtown Los Angeles Coleen Garcia, Billy Crawford now engaged Looks like noontime show â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s showtimeâ&#x20AC;? is ending the year with a bang as two more of its hosts got engaged.

Celebrity couple Coleen Garcia and Billy Crawford, tagged by netizens as â&#x20AC;&#x153;BiCol,â&#x20AC;? will walk the aisle after Billy popped the question on Tuesday evening, Dec. 20.

Director Gino santos, who worked with Coleen in various projects, such as on independent film â&#x20AC;&#x153;#Y,â&#x20AC;? steamy drama movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ex With Benefitsâ&#x20AC;? and romance flick â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love me tomorrow,â&#x20AC;? shared the news on Instagram and sent his congratulatory message to the newly engaged couple.

The director was also able to capture Billyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposal as well

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Showtimeâ&#x20AC;? alumni Coleen Garcia and Billy Crawford just got engaged.

as Coleenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engagement ring. three years now.

The two have a ten-year age gap He said Billy prepared for PAGE B3 and have been together for almost

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*HYVS 4HUHSHUN Thousands of attendees gathered on Thursday, December 15 for the kick-off of Simbang Gabi at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles. Sponsored by the Our Lady of the Angels Pastoral Region of the Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the main celebrant was Most Reverend Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, D.D. Other Concelebrants were bishops and priests of the Archdiocese.

The massâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme this year was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jesus, make us generous dispensers of your divine mercy.â&#x20AC;? Ministers from parishes of the Pastoral Regions of Santa Barbara, San Fernando, San Gabriel, San Pedro and Our Lady of the Angels together with dignitaries, civic, business and non-profit organizations marched with their banners and parols (lantern), a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem. It was the 14th anniversary of the liturgical AJPress photos by Andy Tecson celebration of the Philippine tradition of culture, faith, and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ.

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B december 24-27, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS I CAN never quell a stir of fascination, dread and longing, when the house lights dim and the curtain parts in every Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO’s) gentle riot. It is spellbound.

“Enjoy whatever music floats the boat, never question your own tast. There is a world of music out there both old and new, so keep your ears open…the music you surround yourself with can be considered the soundtrack to your life” ..thus spoke a superior conductor nicknamed Bob, as he shook John Wayne Performing Arts in a recent Saturday, with Christmas yuletides in an ensemble and melodies so spontaneous, effervescent played with fire and abandon, as well as the gentlest and caressing repertoire:…like poets they dazzled, but never intrude, into the music. Where

Features

All about Christmas

else could we find musical expressions that would portray so many subtle shades of emotion: passing through an entire cauldron of feelings, tenderness, romance, gaiety, nostalgia, pathos, but above all love of country..of solid patriotism that evoked, as Maestro Bob Shroder got more tireless and resilient…with his magic baton glowing like an Excalibur.

The FASO is not just for music lovers but every facet of serious or light music, basically, it is just about presentation of every branch of musical composition… symphonies, operatic, chorales, vocal, chamber music and overall repertoire that reflects its deep affinity with Filipinos, that make us proud. But more than anything, it is about the first every Filipino Symphony Orchestra , outside the Philippines aptly called Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, with Filipino musician of various ages whose sound of their instruments turned on, spelled excitement, and no one can imagine that its birth took place some old back porch over a tete a tete conver-

sation a couple of years back. It started from a question “is there a Filipino Symphony orchestra in the United States?” replied by “none” and concluded with “ there will be one” said with the insight and resolve that made the birth of FASO possible, revered couple in the Fil Am Com. Looking back, the first performance at the Sabah Theater in Beverly Hills, shook the theater, literally, an earthquake that did not even distract the spellbound audience, who simply watched in an expression of pride, celebrating fellow Filipinos perform in a stunning, record breaking, magnificent show, as there stood, an indomitable conductor mighty and sterling leading all, without ever forgetting, not ever for a minute: FASO will flourish and triumph because of each one that is part of it.

Just as an artist knew the color of his pallet, selecting and blending different colors and shades that will be spread on his canvass, the Maestro knew his orchestra.

Everyone on that orchestra PAGE B3

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

Ogie Alcasid’s Christmas wish–a sitcom on ABS-CBN

by Tessa

Mauricio-arriola ManilaTimes.net

MULTI-slashie and OPM royalty Ogie Alcasid finally held his first press conference within the ABS-CBN headquarters since he pulled a surprise some weeks ago, appearing on It’s Showtime’s “Tawag ng Tanghalan.”

An erstwhile TV5 talent, who was valued on third-placer network with numerous programs, Alcasid’s transfer to ABS-CBN is considered a coup for his well of talents. Besides his title as OPM’s prolific “Singer-Songwriter,” he is also considered a genius in comedy, pioneering both original gag shows “Tropang Trumpo” on TV5, and “Bubble Gang” on GMA Network.

Originally a GMA Network stalwart, Alcasid, who is soon to sign his contract with ABS-CBN as a “multi-platform artist” admits

he maintains strong ties with his “Bubble Gang” family to this day, especially his co-pioneer Michael V. As such when The Manila Times asked him if he would consider joining ABS-CBN’s own gag show, Banana Sundae, led

by Angelica Panganiban, Jason Gainza, and John Prats, Alcasid took a polite pause and followed on with an honest reply.

“EveryoneknowshowcloseIam to Michael V… my ex-boyfriend,” joked Regine Velasquez’ better half. “Kumpareng buo ko yon…” he trailed off without needing to say anything else.

He revealed however that he already received an invitation from “Banana Sundae” to guest in an episode but his schedule was too tight to accommodate the stint.

“I never thought about [the possibility of joining them]yet, but

Singer-songwriter and top comedian Ogie Alcasid

The Global Kababayan G. TönGi Monday, December 26 - The Asian Journal shares with the Filipino community the top headlines for 2016 that transpired on the months of January to April 2016.

Tuesday, December 27 - We continue with our yearend in review with Asian Journal for the months of May to July of 2016.

Wednesday, December 28

[in terms of a comedy project], I’d much rather try my hand on a sitcom because I’ve never had one.

Yung isang character lang ang idedevelop ko, at hindi iba-iba tulad sa gag show. Yon na lang sana,” he conveyed his wish.

Meanwhile, without going into too much detail on his departure from TV5, Alcasid acknowledged he still maintains a good relationship with head honcho Manny Pangilinan, while hinting in a roundabout way that a certain part of his contract failed to materialize.

According to The Manila Times sources, Alcasid left GMA for TV5 specifically to become a music executive for the media company. But on Thursday’s press conference, the OPM star simply stated the fact, “I was always a talent for the network,” and left the logical conclusion unsaid.

Looking forward as he ends 2016 with an all-new beginning, the ever-positive Alcasid excitedly declared there will be “boundless opportunities” for him to explore in his new home in ABS-CBN. “I’m starting 2017 off as a judge on ‘Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids’ together with Gary Valenciano and the Megastar Sharon Cuneta,” he enthused, “And from there, there’s so much more we’re going to do.”

Set to premiere in January 2017, the celebrity kids who will compete in the coming season of “Your Face Sounds Familiar” are Alonzo Muhlach, Lyca Gairanod, Elha Nympha, Justin Alva, Sam Shoaf, Awra and AC Bonifacio.

Programming of Kababayan Today, December 26-30, 2016 - It’s part three of the Asian Journal’s yearend review. Let us review the top headlines that transpired on the months of August to November.

Mia Mcleod of the Real Estate Buzz shares tips on purchasing or selling your home.

Thursday, December 29 - “The King and I” is in town at the Pantages. Get to know the talented Filipino-American thespians that are part of the production.

Friday, December 30 - Take a

look back at Kababayan Today’s most notable shows of 2016. *** Giselle “G” Töngi is the host and producer of Kababayan Today, a daily talk show that features relevant topics for Filipino’s living in America. Her aim is to bridge not only the cultural gap between America & the Philippines but to help with the generational gap between our own people. She is married with two children and is based in Southern California and makes frequent trips in the Pacific Rim to Hawaii and Manila to feature fellow kababayans who are empowering the FilAm community.

Features

(213) 250-9797 â&#x20AC;˘ http://www.asianjournal.com

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL â&#x20AC;˘ DEcEmbER 24-27, 2016

B

The story of an early Christmas â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Miracleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; this Christmas Day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Citizen Pinoyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ROWenA and Mike came to the U.S. in 2010, after she was sponsored by her employer with an H-1B working visa. While Rowena struggled with the pain of leaving their two children behind, she knew her difficulties would eventually be rewarded with a better future for her family.

The two children later joined them with H-4 visas, and Rowena did everything in her power to fully comply with U.S. immigration laws. While her labor certification (green card) case was being processed, she dutifully renewed her H-1B visa. However, on the third renewal, something went amiss: the renewal was denied. Her at-

torney decided not to appeal, as her labor certification case was close to completion. But another disaster happened: her adjustment (green card) application was also denied because USCIS said because of the H-1B denial, she worked 14 days without proper DHS work authorization!

Despite going to three different lawyers, spending lots of money on attorneysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fees to salvage her case, and all the heartache and stress, no one could help her.

Rowena was desperate. Her family was urging her to give up and return to the Philippines. But she wanted her children to have a better life with all the opportuni-

ties the US offered.

She finally consulted with leading US immigration attorney Michael J. gurfinkel. Despite the complexity of the case, and the denials, the family was very optimistic their 4th attorney was truly â&#x20AC;&#x153;the attorney of last hope.â&#x20AC;?

And true enough, Atty. gurfinkel delivered within a record 43 days, getting green cards for the entire family, and securing a bettera future for Rowenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children.

Watch this early Christmas miracle on a brand-new episode of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Citizen Pinoyâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on Sunday 6:15 pm PST/eST (9:15 pm eST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

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Coleen Garcia, Billy Crawford...

PAGE B1 the engagement for more than a year.

The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Showtimeâ&#x20AC;? coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engagement came after their colleague Anne Curtis made headlines after she and fiancĂŠ erwan

SHE TRIED TO COMPLY, BUT HER CASE WAS DENIEDâ&#x20AC;Ś A MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DESPAIR AND AN ATTORNEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RESCUE ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF CITIZEN PINOY! Rowena and Mike came to the US in 2010 to build a better life. Rowena was sponsored as a teacher. As she was filing her third extension for her H1-B visa in 2016, the shocking news hit her. She was denied! Then her adjustment (green card) application was denied because, according to the USCIS, she worked a mere 14 days without the necessary DHS authorization.

Three lawyers tried handling her case, to no avail, and her family was urging her to â&#x20AC;&#x153;give upâ&#x20AC;? and return to the Philippines. She finally decided to consult with â&#x20AC;&#x153;the attorney of last hope,â&#x20AC;? Atty. MICHAEL J. GURFINKEL, in a last-ditch effort to be able to provide a better life for her children.

Watch how Atty. Gurfinkel was able to solve the problem in a record 43 days, turning a disastrous denial into green cards for the entire family, on a brand-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on Christmas Day at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

actress, however, denied that she will marry Billy this year.

In April 2016, Billy said he got Heussaff recently announced their the blessing of Coleenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father engagement during a trip to the for the proposal. The actress, United States in november. meanwhile, said thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no rush Coleen left the noontime show to getting married. in January to focus on her other The couple has not released projects while Billy remained to any official on their engagement be one of the showâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hosts. The yet. (Philstar.com)

All about...

short on funds. Let us all try to rev upâ&#x20AC;Ś There is probably somebody in your phone book who PAGE B2 to be played, knew exactly what knows somebody, who knows was a musical personality, had he wanted to hearâ&#x20AC;Śa gifted mu- somebody who could solve this a unique style and the quality of sic man who has been remark- problem, with the stroke of a tone that was different from oth- ably consistent and consistently pen â&#x20AC;&#x201C; make a phone call to that somebody. ers, he knew how to mix them, remarkable.

This March, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swing with They were impressively long how to blend them. Knew just how he wanted a pure of music on passion, but unfortunately the FASO.

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When malls start playing Christmas songs all day long, you know Christmas is knocking at your door

from their homes for months at a time.

Mungcal, who has been licensed to practice law in California since 2003, said that she could smell the presence of contaminants in the air when she would consult with residents in the area. However, despite the harm that might have resulted from their exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals, some families were reluctant to pursue litigation.

The experienced attorney said that many of her clients had been afraid to cause trouble or seem greedy by filing for damages against those responsible for the leak. Many Porter Ranch residents were also unaware that their pain and suffering might warrant additional reimbursement.

“You would have been surprised,” said Mungcal. “When I was talking to a lot of Filipinos and going into their homes, a lot of them didn’t even think they had an action [to take].”

However, Mungcal said lawsuits aren’t just about recovering compensation and punishing wrongdoers. She says that when litigants bring justifiable claims to trial, they help prevent other people from getting hurt in the future due. Common examples from her experience include cut or trip hazards resulting from inadequately maintained public facilities.

“It’s not just about getting more money,” said Mungcal. “It’s also about putting the person who is at fault on notice about a dangerous condition.”

Several years ago, Killino attorneys investing truck accidents discovered a common defect in certain brands of foreign-manufactured tires. The firm filed suit and manPAGE B5

Lu

ONE of the holiday anthems often played is the song, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”

by Judy Garland. But not everyone knows the story behind this song.

TIME magazine contributor, Wook Kim, wrote: “The original lyrics for this lovely holiday song—written for the 1944 musical ‘Meet Me in St. Louis’—were too depressing for the movie’s famous star and director. ‘Meet Me in St. Louis’ tells the story of a close-knit family living in St. Louis in the early 1900s. The family is devastated when the father announces that they will soon be moving to New York City—the news hitting his daughters especially hard. In a memorable scene towards the end of the film, Esther (played by Judy Garland, five years after ‘The Wizard of Oz’) tries to console her younger sister Tootie (Margaret O’Brien) with a song. ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’ was supposed to paint a picture of fragile hope and optimism.”

I am no “Grinch” but learning about the surprising twist behind this lovely Christmas song gave me some form of relief that I am normal. After all, there could be a reason that I somehow turn melancholic when I hear that song.

The same is true for some people whose loved ones have passed on, and those who will be celebrating Christmas alone (they usually call themselves ‘loveless’ or in our native language, ‘samahan ng malalamig lang pasko’). Whatever their reasons are for not ‘having a merry little Christmas,’ it does not stop me from sharing some of the little ways other people can ignite that holiday cheer.

While many people find it hard to be excited about Christmas, many are full of reasons to celebrate and be filled with the Christmas spirit. And you can sense it in them the moment you step into their homes or get in the car.

They seem to have transformed their homes into mini Christmas concerts, and their cars into Christmas-themed party vans.

In light of that, as my first tip, I suggest you listen to good Christmas songs – and there are a ton of them! Among my all-time favorites are Nat King Cole’s Christmas album, “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney, “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, “Happy Christmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon, “Frosty the Snowman”, “All I Want For Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey, “Jingle Bells”, “Christmas Lights” by Coldplay, and of course, Michael Buble’s Christmas medley.

Also, if you have satellite TV, watch the music channels as they play Christmas songs. Some people love to have Christmas songs playing in the background while they do other things, while some watch some great classic Christmas movies. Whatever tickles your Christmas fancy – go for it. Christmas is also a great time to get in touch with family and friends. Call or email friends whom you have not talked to in a while – you have a reason to now because, well, “It’s Christmas!’

If you have time and some hidden creativity that is waiting to be unleashed, decorate as much as you can with ornaments, Christmas cards, strings, ribbons, candy canes and more. You may also send out Christmas cards! Visit your neighborhood craft store and indulge yourself in making personalized Christmas cards. I speak from experience when I say these are the most effective stress relievers you can treat yourself

to on the holidays. Speaking of stress, one very effective way to de-stress this holiday and make a “merry-little-happy-Christmas home” is by de-cluttering. Make sure everything is clean and uncluttered. By doing so, you feel more at peace and homey. Partner that moment with a white peppermint mocha latte and you feel like sitting on Santa’s lap with a wish list in hand.

The best way to feel the Christmas spirit is by giving. Donate your time and/or money to those in need. Think of your less fortunate relatives or that homeless person you often see across the street. Try to do something good for another person — it can be from holding the door to taping some quarters on to a vending machine with a note. And of course, give gifts! It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it would be a lot more special if you personalize it.

In closing, everyone can have a ‘merry little Christmas’ especially when you can help them have one. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns.

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

Pinoy celebs share their Christmas plans

by Lhar Santiago ManilaTimes.net

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IT’S the time of the year when everyone is excitedly busy preparing to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas truly brings a different feel—an unexplainable exhilaration that envelops one and all.

The stars feel it too as they join the rest of the world celebrating the birth of Jesus, our Savior. And like us, they also have their plans for this very special day.

Superstar Nora Aunor will just be at home on December 25. “There will be lots of food at home,” she volunteereed. “My house will be open for friends and family. I’m going to cook at kung sino makaalala, pumunta na lang sa bahay. I also invited my co-stars in Kabisera. I have grown close to them, especially my producer RJ Agustin who also acts in the movie as one of my sons.”

Alden Richards, Kristoffer Martin and Derrick Monasterio have also made their plans for Christmas. The three GMA Network heartthrobs have been friends since their “Tween Hearts” days, and are now busy with their respective projects.

Alden is starting his series “Destined To Be Yours” with Maine Mendoza. Derrick is riding high with his top-rating weekly fantasy-comedy series “Tsuperhero,” and Kristoffer is back with love teammate Joyce Ching for GMA Afternoon Prime’s “Hahamakin Ang Lahat.”

Whenever these three Kapuso leading men see each other, guesting in a show usually, it’s never-ending bonding for them.

Alden, Derrick and Kristoffer are all staying home for Christmas. Alden is excited because this will be his first Christmas in his new home in Laguna. Derrick will take the opportunity to bond with his mom, his sisters and his nieces and nephews. Finally for Kristoffer, it’s been a tradition for him and his family to spend Christmas at their house in Olongapo.

They have agreed to do one thing on Christmas, though—they will cook. Alden plans to grill steak for his family, and Derrick will cook his now signature pasta dish, while Kristoffer will cook prawns in peanut sauce.

Even Rhian Ramos is set to invade the kitchen this Christmas.

Despite her busy schedule promoting her MMFF movie “Saving Sally,” Rhian is really determined on making good her promise to her family to cook their Christmas feast. “Dati nagpapabili lang ako ng food but this time, I will do the cooking. I’ve learned a lot from our cooking show Taste Buddies.

Alden Richards

I’ll start with appetizers muna because those are the ones that are easy,” Rhian beamed.

Meanwhile, brother and sister Sanya Lopez and Jak Roberto will go home to their ancestral home in Bulacan. It’s been a family tradition that every Christmas, they go home to their nearby province to be with their grandparents and other relatives. “But this time will be a little different. Since Sanya and I are both earning, we’re giving more gifts. We always look forward to Christmas because we always have a grand time bonding with our cousins,” said Jak. This is the first Christmas that Jennylyn Mercado is celebrating without her Mommy Lydia who passed away in November. The Kapuso Ultimate Star said it will be a sad Christmas for her but that doesn’t mean she will not celebrate. “We will celebrate it the way we celebrated it when Mama was still with us. I grew up celebrating Christmas with lots of food and gifts. I want to continue the tradition that Mama started and that’s how I want to pass it on to Jazz,” Jen enthused.

Last year, Jen cooked almost all the dishes for Noche Buena but this year, she will let her helpers do the cooking with her supervision. “First time kong ginawa yung magluto ng maraming putahe for Christmas. I don’t want to do it again. It’s so tiring. But I will be the one to list down all the food that will be cooked. Siyempre kasama na do’n lahat ng food that my son Jazz loves.”

“Ika-6 Na Utos” leading man Gabby Concepcion has already left for the States to join his family in celebrating the holidays. Despite his busy schedule doing two shows, as he is also part of “Tsuperhero,” Gabby and his family had long planned their Christmas bonding in San Francisco. He will have to be away from them just for a little bit because Gabby has a concert somewhere in California before New Year. He will be back in Manila first week of January too

Nora Aunor

Sunshine Dizon

to resume taping for his shows.

Also an “Ika-6 na Utos” star, Sunshine Dizon will play Santa Claus to her two children, a role her estranged husband used to do. It’s her first time to play St. Nick for her kids and they’re gifts are all ready under the tree, which they can’t wait to open. Of course, the actress will also celebrate Christmas with her Mommy Dorothy who has always been there for Shine and the children.

The superb villain in “Ika-6 Na Utos,” Ryza Cenon, will be a Good Samaritan this Christmas as she has been doing ever since entering show business. Every Christmas Eve, she cooks food, packs them in individual servings, and in the evening, before 12 midnight strikes, she takes to the streets to share her blessings with the homeless.

“It’s only once a year that we celebrate Christmas. I believe one of the best ways to celebrate the birth of the Savior is by sharing our blessings. Since I live alone, I’ve decided to do this every Christmas.”

Ryza will have some help though distributing Noche Buena this year because her sister is coming home from abroad. And of course on Christmas Day, she may just get a surprise visit from boyfriend Cholo Barretto.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DEcEmbER 24-27, 2016

B

A happy family affair Café Sierra to host a special New Year’s Eve 2017 event

Birthday Girl Amanda Gabrielle (Mandy for short) gets a twin kiss from parents Ara Mina and Bulakan, Bulacan Mayor Patrick Meneses.

by Ricky Lo Philstar.com

ALTHOUGH estranged, Ara Mina and Patrick Meneses, Mayor of Bulakan, Bulacan, got together to celebrate the second birthday of their daughter Amanda with a big Under-The-Sea-themed bash, cutely called #AmandainTWOthesea, at the Andrea North Clubhouse on Balete Drive, Quezon City last Dec. 17. The cutie was called Little Mermaid Mandy.

Members of both Ara’s and Patrick’s families were all accounted for. Ara’s sister Cristine Reyes came with husband Ali Khatibi and their daughter Amarah.

Why did Ara choose the name Amanda Gabrielle for her daughter?

“So that her nicknames would both sound boyish,” said Ara. “I wanted a name with the letter H, kasi my real name is Hazel. But I had a hard time looking for one that started with the letter H. Why not Hannah? There are so many Hannahs already. So I decided on a name that starts with the letter A, just like my name.”

Several months after AG was born, Ara and Patrick broke up (they were not married). Fancy-free since then, Ara has been quoted as saying that if ever she’d have another child, she would prefer to have Patrick still as the father (just like Mylene Dizon who had her second child again with Paolo Paraiso even after they had broken up).

“Even at a young age,” Ara described AG, “she is very friendly and is used to being in the public eye. She’s very jolly. She gets easily attached to other kids even if she’s

with them for only a short time.

Very friendly siya.”

During the party, AG graciously interacted with the guests; she never cried. She had five outfit changes during the party that lasted for two hours and a half.

The party was full of fun and games, both for kids and adults alike. Ara gave away prizes to all the kids who participated in the games. The mommies and daddies played a round of “Bring Me,” and the husbands gamely participated in an impromptu staging of a “Mr. Pogi” contest, eliciting laughter from the crowd. A bubble show had the children elbowing their way into the line to get their turn, with the Birthday Girl, of course, getting the most turns inside the bubble maker.

She loved every minute of it.

When the time came to sing the birthday song, AG basked in the attention, while her parents beamed with pride and happiness.

AG gamely posed for selfies with everybody, once again showing the friendliness that she got from both Ara and Patrick.

No guest went away empty handed. The giveaways included products from Nuby, the party’s major sponsor, as well as pillows and knapsacks shaped into fishes.

And the biggest takeaway was a cute little fighting fish that the children went crazy over. Ara joked that giving away animals might become her trademark giveaway.

“Baka puppy na pamigay ko, magbre-breed na lang ako, para mas mura!” Ara laughed. “Siguro pag seven years old na lang siya ako ulit mag-ce-celebrate, para makaipon ako ulit!”

The Killino Firm...

PAGE B4 aged to bring about a mass recall that removed over 450,000 faulty tires from streets and highways.

The lawyers at Killino handle cases of all sizes, from high-profile class action suits with a nationwide impact, to private personal injury claims that call for discretion.

The firm’s attorneys understand that each client’s needs are unique and that every case requires special attention.

“If they have questions I’ll talk for hours until they are answered,” said Mungcal. “I’d rather they know what their rights are, even if they don’t hire me.”

Initial consultations are free

and protected by attorney-client privilege.

In addition, for people who come to Mungcal for council and have concerns that fall outside the scope of personal injury law, she says she is ready to reach out to her network of legal professionals in order connect people with those best suited to assist them.

Those who feel like they might have suffered injury as a result of someone else’s wrongdoing can get in touch with Mungcal at (213)-6232544. Potential clients can also send an email to EMungcal@killinofirm. com, or stop by in person at 515 S Flower St. #3647, Los Angeles CA, 90071..

(Advertising Supplement)

Cominn sooo tt Southero Californii...

Save the Date!

Sunday, February 26, 2017

As we welcome the upcoming year of 2017, Café Sierra offers you an exclusive event to celebrate New Year’s Eve in a very special way.

The award-winning Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet, slated to start at 9 p.m. on December 31, will include party favors, a midnight champagne toast and a balloon drop. But that’s not all. There will also be a live concert featuring OWN Network Star and Star Search Grand Champion, Jake Simpson, and Australian singer and songwriter, Shelley Sega.

Be in for a surprise and taste for yourself the best buffet in the state of California, as Yahoo named it, for a price of $95 for adults and $45 for children.

In its raw bar, the famed buffet offers oysters, cocktail

Ring in 2017 at Café Sierra in the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City! Join our 9pm seating at the Award Winning Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet which includes Party Favors, Midnight Champagne Toast and Balloon Drop. Live concert and dancing with OWN Network Star and Star Search Grand Champion, Jake Simpson. Australian Singer/Songwriter Shelley Segal opens the evening.

For reservations contact Café Sierra at 818.509.2030.

shrimp, snow crabs, and the sought-after Alaskan king crab legs. You’ll also find a tray of cheesy stuffed lobster, which does not have a sign that limits you to how many you can get.

The buffet ensures its high-quality seafood, where the dishes’ freshness keeps customers feel the closeness of the ocean.

Apart from seafood, you’ll find slabs of prime rib or a rack of

lamb the carving station, which is a cornerstone of the Cafe Sierra experience.

Café Sierra also offers soups and trays of cooked food, including Mandarin, Thai or Italian, among other global cuisines represented. You can have one of the chefs prepare beef or chicken tacos or a Mongolian stir fry right in front of you.

There’s also a sushi bar, which

has slices of tender sashimi and different types of cut rolls. A sushi chef is positioned behind the counter to take any hand roll orders as well.

Café Sierra is located in Hilton Los Angeles - Universal City.

For reservations, you can ring Café Sierra at 818.509.2030 or visit http://www.cafesierrahilton. com/ for more information.

(Advertising Supplement)

B december 24-27, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

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

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

COMMUNITY Journal

Your Immigration Solution Devin Connolly & nanCy Miller BEING granted United States citizenship is a dream-come-true for countless people from around the world. Though the dream is the same, the paths to actually obtaining U.S. citizenship can vary greatly because there are many different ways that a person may become a U.S. citizen.

The most common way a person is granted U.S. citizenship is by birth in the U.S. or one of its territories. This automatic granting of citizenship is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and applies to almost everyone, regardless of the immigration status of the child’s parents.

The next most-common way a person may obtain U.S. citizenship is through the process known as naturalization. This is how those who immigrated to the United States become citizens. It begins with the filing of an application and ends at a swearingin ceremony. It is the steps in between that can trip many up.

Some may not be eligible and not know it. Some may have unresolved issues of removability that will become apparent when they file their application. Some may be eligible but not provide the necessary documentation.

The wise applicant makes it his or her business to be educated and informed before filing for the benefit.

Most applicants for naturalization must be a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. for five years before they may apply for U.S. citizenship. However, this fiveyear requirement is lowered to three years if the applicant has been residing in “marital union” with their U.S. citizen spouse for the prior three years. This is true even if the applicant did not obtain their green card through the marriage. “Marital union” means that the parties actually resided together, so even an informal separation would disqualify an applicant from applying after only three years. In an at-

The many ways of becoming a US citizen tempt to ameliorate the delays in processing, the regulations allow the applicant to file 90 days before the three or five year period is reached.

The applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the three or five year period. And an absence of one full-year breaks the residency and the clock must start again.

Each applicant for naturalization must show good moral character for the requisite period of time. Several past events in one’s life may not only preclude a person from showing good moral character and, thereby, prevent a grant of citizenship but may also cause the applicant to be placed into removal proceedings. These actions include misrepresentations made to obtain an immigration benefit or convictions for certain crimes. And CIS is entitled to look outside the prescribed period to determine the applicant’s good moral character.

Some of these requirements for naturalization are eliminated for one who is applying based on military service, especially military service during a time of conflict.

A child of a U.S. citizen who is born outside the U.S. may acquire U.S. citizenship without going through naturalization if they meet certain conditions.

Specifically, the child must be under the age of 18, must already be a permanent resident of the U.S., at least one of their

parents must be a U.S. citizen either by birth or naturalization, and the child must be residing in the U.S. in the legal and physical custody of their U.S. citizen parent. Upon the satisfaction of the last of these four requirements, the child automatically becomes U.S. citizens and may apply for a certificate of citizenship or a U.S. passport. This provision applies to adopted children, but not to step-children of U.S. citizens. Also, this law only applies to children who were under the age of 18 on February 27, 2001.

There are more complex requirements for a person that turned 18-years-old before February 27, 2001.

Finally, a person may also acquire U.S. citizenship by being born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent. Whether the child acquired U.S. citizenship at birth will be determined based on the law that it was in effect at the time of the child’s birth. This aspect of U.S. citizenship laws has changed many times over the years, so each applicant’s case is different.

However, a common theme has been requiring the U.S. citizen parent to have acquired a certain amount of physical presence in the U.S. prior to the child’s birth.

The laws regarding citizenship in the United States are extremely complex. One may be a citizen and not know it. Alternatively, one may think they are going through a simple process and wind up fighting to keep their green card. Be informed.

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 24-27, 2016

C

C DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Community Journal

http://www.asianjournal.com â&#x20AC;˘ (818) 502-0651 â&#x20AC;˘ (213) 250-9797

Atty. RAymond BulAon

Dealing with debt: Are there other options besides bankruptcy?

FOR people who are considering bankruptcy as a way to get out of debt, some questions constantly arise. Am I doing the right thing? What other options are available? If I decide to file bankruptcy, should I file now or do it later?

Filing for bankruptcy is a serious decision to make. Unfortunately, a lot of people are hopelessly trapped in debt that it is their only chance of starting over. Most of them already have late payments, collections, judgments, etc. on their credit report.

Some are in danger of getting their wages garnished, their bank accounts levied or their property and assets being taken. If you are in any of the above situations, filing bankruptcy may actually help you more than it can hurt you.

It may be just what you need to turn your situation around and change your life for the better.

In certain cases, there may be alternatives to filing bankruptcy.: 1. Settle with creditors- In some cases, depending on the nature of the debt and the amount owed, it may be possible to settle directly with creditors, often for less than full amount especially if you are offering a lump sum settlement.

For example, my office regularly settles debts for 40-60% of the amount owed. Where the debtor doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the cash to settle, an installment plan may be arranged. Late penalty payments

and interest may be waived.

Bill collectors are aware that as time goes by, the ability to collect from the debtor diminishes.

Often, the creditor will choose to take something now rather than wait forever to collect.

2. Review your monthly income and expenses- If you are living beyond your means, perhaps you can sit down and take a good look at exactly where your money is going every month and simply cut out unnecessary expenses. Review detailed information of your monthly income and monthly expenses to better understand your resources. I find that a lot of people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even know exactly how much they owe and how much they are paying to their creditors every month. This is unbelievable. If you need to cut expenses to the bone until you pay off your debts, then do it. Some people are so lazy to even look at their monthly budget that they often overlook expenses that can easily be eliminated without much sacrifice.

3. Do nothing (Well, at least for now) - I normally donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t recommend this option because if you do nothing, oftentimes your debt problems will only get worse over time. Sooner or later, you will need to face the music and deal with your creditors, so why not do it now? You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t shun off from them forever. In some cases, however, where you

Minding Your Finances

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Tax Tips

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have no income and no assets and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect this situation to change anytime soon, you may be considered â&#x20AC;&#x153;judgment proofâ&#x20AC;?. What that means is that even if your creditors sue you and get a judgment, the judgment is worthless because it is uncollectible. Be aware, however, that if your financial condition does improve in the future, then you may no longer be judgment-proof. More importantly, if bankruptcy is in fact your only way out, you are better off filing now while you still qualify. If you wait to file until later when your financial situation has improved, you may no longer qualify at that time and thus, you would have missed your only chance to get out of debt once and for all.

If you are considering bankruptcy as a way out of debt, I am sure a lot of questions are going through your mind at this time.

For a free evaluation of your case, please call our office at Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772 to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you. We have offices in Glendale, Cerritos and Valencia. *** 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.

(Advertising Supplement)

ABCs of foreclosures, short sales, and deeds in lieu

lender repossesses property that was pledged as collateral for a cPA, mBA mortgage loan. Foreclosure can occur judicially (court action) or THE loss of our homes to fore- non-judicially (trustee sale). closure, short sale, or deed in lieu Short Sale: A short sale ocof foreclosure is akin to adding curs when an owner sells propinsult to injury - after losing our erty for less than the debt owed homes, we also have to worry on a property. The lender must about lender repercussion, credit consent to the sale and agree history, and tax consequences. to accept less than the full loan Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s define and discuss tax con- amount and release the property sequences of foreclosure, short from the mortgage lien. sale, and deed in lieu of forecloDeed in Lieu of Foreclosure: sures.

A deed in lieu of foreclosure ocDefinitions curs when an owner conveys Foreclosure: Foreclosure is an property to the existing lender involuntary process whereby a in exchange for cancellation of

VictoR Sy,

the mortgage loan (â&#x20AC;&#x153;in lieuâ&#x20AC;? of a foreclosure by the lender).

Tax Consequences of Foreclosures, Short Sales, and Deeds in Lieu Each of the above circumstances results in two potential taxable consequences to the owner: 1. Tax on capital gain and/or 2. Tax on cancelled/forgiven debt.

Whether we get hit by one or two of these taxes depend on whether the debt is recourse or non-recourse.

Tax Consequences If Debt Is Recourse (Personal Liability to

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

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. Q: I WAS diagnosed with early stage cancer a few weeks ago. I can still do my job but I will need about 5 hours off from work every week for 3 months for medical treatments. I asked my manager for intermittent leave. When he refused, I emailed him information from the Labor Commissioner’s office regarding my leave rights. My manager got mad and refused to talk to me. Yesterday, I was fired for poor performance but it wasn’t explained what I did wrong. I worked for this company for 10 years and my evaluation has always been “above expectations.” Is my firing legal?

A: Your firing may be illegal, even though the employer said it was due to poor performance.

The firing seems suspicious given the close proximity between the firing, and the time that you asked for intermittent leave.

Here, it is worth investigating to determine if your former manager was motivated by a discriminatory reason (your medical condition) that is being covered up with a purported business reason instead.

An employer may not terminate an employee for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons. Doing so may give rise to a wrongful termination claim. In order to skirt around the law, the employ-

To Live With Faith reverend rodel G. BAlAGtAS A BLESSED and Merry Christmas and New Year to all of you!

For my column this Christmas, I’d like to quote Bishop Robert Baron in one of his Advent reflections. Contrasting our personal will to God’s will and purpose in our lives, here’s what he says: “We are dominated today by the ego-drama in all of its ramifications and implications. The ego-drama is the play that I’m writing, I’m producing, I’m directing, and I’m starring in. We see this absolutely everywhere in our culture. Freedom of choice reigns supreme: I become the person that I choose to be.

Community Journal

Why would your employer lie about the reason for firing you? er may claim that it had a legitimate, non-discriminatory reason for firing the employee (such as poor performance or customer complaints). It is then up to the employee to prove that the employer’s stated reason for the firing was a “pretext.” To prove pretext, the employee may show that the stated reason: – is false, – did not cause the firing, or – is not enough to cause a firing (i.e., people are not usually fired for this reason) Aside from discrimination, an employer may also be retaliating against an employee who tried to assert the right to take a medical leave. In order to prevail on a retaliation claim, an employee must prove that: 1) The employee engaged in protected activity, such as reporting a violation, testifying as a witness, or asserting a legal right.

2) The employer knew that the employee engaged in such protected activity.

3) The employee suffered an adverse employment action, such a demotion or termination 4) The employee’s protected activity caused the employer to take adverse action. Unlawful retaliation may be inferred from timing, especially if the firing occurred soon after the employer learned about the protected activity.

Discrimination and retaliation may go hand in hand. Consider a recent case reported by the Daily

Journal: David Rubalcaba worked for Albertson’s grocery store for over three decades. By all accounts, he was a model employee. Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. He asked the employer for accommodation so he can deal with his medical condition. Rubalcaba alleged that the employer failed to engage him in an interactive process to determine if his request for accommodation can be granted.

Rubalcaba asserted his right to be accommodated. Instead, the employer fired him for supposedly taking home three wooden boxes that the manager had previously told him to throw away.

Rubalcaba sued the employer for disability discrimination and retaliation. The case went to trial and the jury found in favor of the employee, awarding him $1,242,125 in damages. *** The Law Offices of C. Joe Sayas, Jr. welcomes inquiries about this topic. All inquiries are confidential and at no-cost. You can contact the office at (818) 291-0088 or visit www. joesayaslaw.com. *** C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is an experienced trial attorney who has successfully obtained significant recoveries for thousands of employees and consumers. He is named Top Labor & Employment Attorney in California by the Daily Journal, consistently Aselected as Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum.

(Advertising Supplement)

A Christmas message The theo-drama is the great story being told by God, the great play being directed by God. What makes life thrilling is to discover your role in it. This is precisely what has happened to Mary. She has found her role—indeed a climactic role—in the theo-drama, and she wants to conspire with Elizabeth, who has also discovered her role in the same drama.

And like Mary, we have to find our place in God’s story.”

As we reflect on our lives and the happenings of this world today, I suggest that we come to a fuller understanding of God’s purpose for each one of us and for the world that he created for us. Let’s reflect if we are faithfully playing the role that he has given to each one of us. Indeed, are we allowing him to direct our lives? Are we open to his will and purpose? Are we happy with the

parts we play whether they are big or small?

We are all part of God’s story, which must continue in the present and future times. His story must always cover the themes of incessant love, boundless mercy, and the persistent invitation to his life of holiness and service.

As some of my brother priests have said in their Simbang Gabi homilies, His story is our story.

Today God is challenging us to relive the story of his Son, Jesus Christ, in a world that has been mired in so much violence, terror, killings, hatred and divisions.

He is inviting us to bring out in the world the peace of the Child Jesus, the love and forgiveness of the Crucified Lord, and the hope and joy of the Risen Christ.

We pray for our world leaders.

May their leaderships that af-

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Maximizing recovery in personal injury cases

UNDER Howell v. Hamilton Meats & Provisions (2011) 52 C.4th 541, the California Supreme Court ruled that persons who are injured and who are pursuing a personal injury claim cannot recover the full amount of medical bills incurred if an insurer paid a smaller, negotiated amount to the medical provider. The Court’s ruling further limited an injured person’s right to recover for past medical expenses.

In light of the Howell decision, it is even more important for a person who suffered injury to develop his/her claim for other economic damages.

The term “economic damages” means “objectively verifiable monetary losses including medical expenses, loss of earnings, burial costs, loss of use of property, costs of repair or replacement, costs of obtaining substitute domestic services, loss of employment and loss of business or employment opportunities.” Civil Code Section 1431.2(b)(1). A person’s claim for economic damages apart from medical expenses are often overlooked and not pursued by inexperienced counsel.

Loss of earnings are often a significant part of an injured person’s claim for economic damages. Damages are recoverable for both past and future lost earnings. To recover for past lost earnings, a person must prove the amount of income or earnings that he/she has lost to date. To recover damages for future earnings, a person must prove the amount of income or earnings that he/she will be reasonably certain to lose in the future as a result of the injury.

CACI No. 3903C. How are past lost earnings proven? Medical records, which show the doctor authorizing a release from work or giving instructions to restrict work activities, can support the time taken off from work due to the injury. For those self-employed, medical providers typically do not provide a release from work; however, medical records should record work restrictions placed by the medical provider.

After showing that the time off was justified, the next step is to value the lost earnings. A letter from a person’s employer that outlines the amount of time that one has lost as a result of his/her injury, the loss of benefits, and the rate of pay during the time of loss is evidence of the value of one’s loss of earnings claim. Other supporting documents include pay stubs, time cards, and tax returns. The monetary value of sick leave and vacation time that are used due to the injury are also recoverable. For those selfemployed, earnings history as reflected by tax returns and profit and loss statements can help prove the value of lost earnings. Similar supporting documentation must be presented for future lost earnings.

If you were suffered injury in an auto accident or someone’s premises, please contact our office to discuss your case. To maximize monetary recovery, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced attorney in presenting your personal injury claim. *** 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@dtanlaw.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

ABCs of foreclosures, short sales, and…

PAGE C2 t

Borrower): There are two tax consequences: 1. Capital gain - the difference between the adjusted basis and the fair market value. You are taxed at the applicable capital gains rate of either 5% or 15% depending on your tax bracket.

2. Debt Relief - the difference between the debt and the fair market value. Cancellation or forgiveness of debt is taxed as ordinary income.

For example, you bought an apartment building for $400,000 with a loan of $350,000 many moons ago. The property appreciated in value to $1 million so you obtained a second loan of $850,000. Total outstanding loan balance is $1.2 million. Let’s assume that the adjusted basis is $0 after you have fully depreciat-

ed the building. The two tax consequences if you have recourse loans are: 1. Capital gain must be recognized on the difference between the fair market value of the property ($1 million) and the adjusted basis ($0). Hence, you must pay capital gains tax on the $1 million.

2. Debt Relief must also be recognized on the difference between the fair market value ($1 million) and the debt ($1.2 million). You must pay ordinary income tax on the $200,000 cancelled debt at regular tax rates.

Tax Consequences If Debt Is Non-Recourse (Borrower Not Personally Liable): 1. Capital gains: This is the only tax consequence. Capital gain is the excess of your loans over your adjusted basis. In this case, it’s the same difference between the fair market value of the property ($1 million) and

the adjusted basis ($0).

2. Debt Relief: There is no tax on cancellation or forgiveness of debt for non-recourse loans.

In summary: 1. If the debt is recourse, you pay capital gains tax and ordinary income tax.

2. If the debt is non-recourse, you pay capital gains only.

*** 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.

(Advertising Supplement)

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 24-27, 2016

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrSUA reyeS THERE is never the perfect time to think about who you would like to inherit from your estate in case you pass away or at least who among your closest friends (BFFs) and family members are even deserving of inheriting from your estate. In doing so, you should also think about which vehicle you plan to use in implementing your estate plan. One of the best vehicle in implementing your estate plan is a revocable living trust. Five major benefits of establishing a revocable living trust are: Your estate can avoid the time, cost, and hassle of going through the probate court process.

If you pass away without a will (intestate) in California, one of your close family would have to file a petition in probate court to probate your estate. Your estate will be divided and distributed according to the California probate code rules of intestate succession. Even if you have a will when you pass away, your family would still need to file a petition in probate court if your estate is worth over $150,000 and go through the probate process. This can become a circus if certain beneficiaries contest the validity of the Will or the distribution of the estate. Your estate will pay for attorney’s fees, probate referee fees, appraisers and other experts, CPA fees, etc. If people contest the case, your estate would end up paying legal fees to defend the estate in litigation. The entire process can take anywhere from 9 months to years depending on the contentiousness of the probate case.

With a revocable living trust, your trustee or successor trustee if you were the initial trustee, would administer the trust and

Five benefits of establishing a revocable living trust distribute the estate according to the trust document without having to open a probate court case.

If the trust is funded with all your assets, it is possible to administer and distribute the trust assets without any Court involvement at all. This process is a lot faster than going through probate.

Your estate is not public record When you file a probate case, the public has access to your probate case file. The public will know the assets of the estate including the values of those assets. If the Will is admitted into probate, the terms of the Will is open to public scrutiny.

Establishing a revocable living trust makes your estate affairs private. Strangers do not have access to the terms of your living trust. Only certain beneficiaries and possible heirs can request a copy of the revocable living trust after you pass away.

You can dictate who will inherit from your estate.

If you pass away without a Will, your estate will be divided and distributed in Probate Court following the rules of intestate succession in the California probate code. Certain relatives will be entitled to a share of your estate even if you feel they are not deserving. By establishing a revocable living trust, you can designate who you want to inherit from your estate. You can designate what and how much each one will received from your estate after you pass away. The assets distributed to each beneficiaries does not have to be equal.

The people you designate as beneficiaries of your living trust does not even have to be close family members. You can designate anyone as a beneficiary, with certain exceptions, of your

The many ways of…

PAGE C1 t

Consult a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney when you start to think about citizenship. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila.

For more Information please call (800) 795-

C

8009 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)

estate.

You can structure your estate to minimize estate taxes If your estate is valued above the estate tax exemption, establishing a trust can allow you to divide up your estate into smaller sub trusts to minimize the overall estate tax effect on your estate. It allows you to set up a vehicle for certain charitable giving which carries tax advantage and asset protection.

You can choose who will administer your estate after your death When you establish a revocable trust, you can appoint someone else as trustee or you can appoint a successor trustee if you are the initial trustee. The trustee will be administering (managing) the trust after you pass away without a need to open a probate court case. This allows for continuity in operating the trust and the efficient and cost effective distribution of estate assets. If you are concerned about whether you can trust any family members as your trustee, you can appoint an institution as a professional trustee to carry out the terms of the declaration of trust. These type of trustee services are often offered by banks, financial institutions, wealth management firms, and business management firms for a reasonable fee. This minimizes conflicts within the family and prevents negligence and wrong doing by inexperienced family members. *** Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com. *** Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice. The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed.

The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, P.C. This article (Advertising Supplement) is not a solicitation.

C DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Debt Relief Atty. LAwrence yAng HUSBAND and wife are both 66. They were my clients 15 years ago. I do not remember how much credit cards were discharged then but I do remember that their problem was too much credit cards. After they wiped out these cards in 2001, they were able to buy a house. They were also able to rebuild their credit scores pretty fast with timely payments on the house and car loans. As their credit scores improved came the avalanche of new credit cards that were offered to them. For a while, they had no difficulty paying for the new debts because both of them were still working. Don’t forget that 15 years ago, they were only 51. At 51, you don’t really think about getting older. But, time does not walk; it flies. All of you remember the day you left your country of origin. That could be 30 or 40 years ago. You left a young man or woman of 20. Now as you read this article, you are 50 or 60, probably with grandchildren. Where did all that time go? I don’t know, all I know is, time feels like it goes much faster here because we have to do everything ourselves so we are busy all the time. We have to clean the house, cook and pick up the kids ourselves, and we still have to work. We wake up early in the morning and we are just busy doing something the whole day until it’s time to sleep which is late at night.

We look at our nice cars and beautiful houses, and we conclude that the American dream is truly worth it. At least, we have something to show for all our hard work. Our children also succeed. They go to college, become professionals, and make good money. So this is what the good life is all about. The problem is that we can’t really make time stand still, can we. If we could, then we would all press the pause button so that we can enjoy this kind of life indefinitely. Let’s get back to clients, who I would say, did buy the American dream after their first bankruptcy in 2001.

They now have a house with $170K of equity. They did not have a house in 2001. Well, that’s all good until they tell me that they have new credit card debt of $100K. Well, that’s not good,

Community Journal

Seniors want bankruptcy relief for $100K credit cards: Chapter 13 or Chapter 7 Best wishes to all readers for Christmas!

particularly for seniors at 66. You know you need at least $3K a month to pay for minimum interest on $100K of credit cards. $3K a month at 66 is a luxury that seniors at 66 normally do not have.

In fact, $3K a month is a heavy burden for any person at any age to handle. I’m thinking there’s no problem with the house because at 66, the homestead exemption is $175K plus 6% cost of sale.

The house is now worth $400K so 6% is another $24K to be added to the $175K homestead exemption. As a result, in a Chapter 7, clients will be able to keep their house. No problem.

I ask them for their income.

Wife has social security of $800.

Husband has social security of $1800 and still works the same job that he had in 2001. This nets him $2500. They have household income of $5100. That’s not bad at all. They can easily pay the mortgage of $1700 so their house is not at risk. At $5100, they still qualify for Chapter 7 under the means test. There is no presumption of abuse.

Looks like a clear-cut Chapter 7 case to wipe out the $100K credit cards. But wait. I ask them how many cars they have and what kind of cars are these? They have a new accord that they just purchased with a car loan. And what else? They have two luxury cars, although older model cars that are both fully paid. The mileage on one of them is less than 40K and the other has mileage of 100K. Well, those are not a lot of mileage especially for one of them. Chapter 7 trustees are focused on luxury cars that are fully paid even older model ones.

A luxury car, even one that is 8 years old with low mileage can still have a blue book value of $10K to $15K. The combined current value of the two luxury cars is at least $18K, less the car exemption of $3,500, exposing a non-exempt car value of $14,500.

This means that in a Chapter 7, the trustee will take the two luxury cars and sell them, unless clients settle with the trustee so that he lets them keep both cars. The new car is not a problem because it has no equity. In the context of Chapter 7, to settle with the trustee means that clients will have to

offer to buy back the luxury cars from the trustee for at least $10K to $12K in cash. Clients wince at the prospect of buying back their cars, which have been fully paid for some time.

The painless way of dealing with this situation is to file a Chapter 13, not a Chapter 7. In Chapter 13, clients will pay the $14,500 non-exempt equity for the two luxury cards through a 60 months Chapter 13 plan. They get to keep their house and 3 cars. They only pay $250 a month for 60 months to the Chapter 13 trust. Out of the $100K that they owe, the plan allows them to pay 14.5% of the $100K card. In other words, Chapter 13 will allow them to pay $14,500 over 60 months, no interest at the rate of $250 a month.

After the 60th payment, the court will discharge $85,500 of their credit cards. So at the end of the 60th payment, they will owe nothing to the credit card companies.

For $14,500, they get rid of $100K of debt! The debt relief provide

by Chapter 13 is immediate because: instead of making $3000 of minimum monthly payments, under the plan, they only pay $250! That’s an immediate relief of $2,750 a month. In addition, after paying 60 payments of $250, they will owe zero to credit cards, whereas if they don’t have Chapter 13 relief, they will have to pay $180K for 5 years, and still owe the same $100K after five years!

Chapter 13 is a super great deal for clients! I think this is the best Christmas gift that they can give themselves!

We celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior on Saturday!

Best wishes to you and yours on this Blessed day!

“FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD, THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY SON, THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.” JOHN 3:16

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The unseen co-stars

A Dash of Salt and Pepper (A simple thought of inspiration with biblical encouragement)

by Henjie Pimenta

THE story of Christmas is one of the most performed on stage.

I will never get tired of watching the Nativity scene with the wise men, shepherds, angel, Mary and Joseph, the big star, camels, sheep and donkeys on a quiet evening scene in the desert. The main star of them all, of course, and the reason for this season is Jesus in the manger, followed by the heavenly singing of the choir Henjie Pimenta with a beautiful well-arranged musical line up. Then, after the play is the curtain call.

Everyone is called back onstage to take a bow as they were being called one by one.

I love the Christmas play — it is one of the best plays on my personal list. Like any other play or movie, it has a book series and in this case, it is the Bible, the best-selling book of all time.

Now like in most cases, there are some things in the story line of the book that are not shown or emphasized. It takes a creative idea from the director to come up with a way to bring into life the unseen characters—maybe through voice overs, narration or embedded in the speaking lines of the real characters to lead the audience into an imagination to bring life to the unseen characters.

Let me present to you the Christmas Story according to Matthew 1:18-25: 18 This is how the birth of Jesus came about: His mother, Mary, was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph, her husband, was a righteous man and did not want to expose her in public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.”

22 All these took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”—which means “God with us.”

24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary

PAGE C3 t

home as his wife. 25 But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

So, who are the unseen co-stars of Christmas?

The Heavenly Father—who is the Divine Orchestrator of all things from the start to the after-life. Whose very nature is to give and to love. (John 3:16) The Holy Spirit, who executed the plan of Yahweh to plant The Seed to The Womb of Virgin Mary.

If the Holy Spirit is able to plant in the closed womb of Mary (the virgin healthy young womb—who had no union with man as stated in Matthew 1:25), it is definitely not impossible for the Holy Spirit to raise Jesus from the dead and bring Him also out of the closed tomb.

Luke 1:37 says: “For nothing is impossible with God.” The Father and the Holy Spirit are ever present in the Christmas scene with Jesus. Let us be reminded that Christmas is more than a story, stage play and a Christmas Cantata, but it’s nice to have the closest feeling and idea of what it is like to be there on the evening in the manger.

The King is in the center stage of the Nativity, of the audience, and most especially the center of our lives.

Where ever Jesus is, the presence of The Father in Heaven and The Holy Spirit is there as well, which is full of grace.

Thank you my Jehovah God for the great redemptive plan of bringing Immanuel – our Lord and Savior into the world, and the Holy Spirit who lead and guide us, giving us conviction and wisdom. We believe in You, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit….

And all who agree say, Amen!

A blessed Christmas to everyone! Happy Birthday to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

If you need prayers and healing, please do not hesitate to call or visit us on any Sunday at: Praise Christian Fellowship of the Valley, 9051 Woodman Avenue, Arleta, CA 91331, (inside Helping Hands ADHC, behind the CVS drugstore and Vallarta Supermarket at the back alley), 4:30 p.m. or call Pastor Emmanuel Madeja at (818) 813-3971; or at Praise Christian Fellowship, Los Angeles at 2235 Beverly Blvd. (corner Roselake/Rosemont), Los Angeles, CA 90057 at 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

A Christmas…

fect human lives become part of the “theo-drama” than an “egodrama.” May their decisions and works reflect only God’s will as *** He revealed to us in Scriptures Lawrence Bautista Yang specializes in and Tradition. bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil We pray for one another. May litigation and has successfully represented we never be discouraged to do more than five thousand clients in California. what is right for our countries, Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) cities, neighborhoods, and fami284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. lies. Whatever creed, religion, Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite and political ideals we embrace, 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. may we live in harmony and (Advertising Supplement) peace. May all of us, especially

May she intercede for the needs of our families and the world! Amen. *** the young generation, use technology and social media to cre- From a Filipino immigrant family, Reverend ate relationships that promote Rodel G. Balagtas was ordained to the mutual respect, human decency, priesthood from St. John’s Seminary in 1991. He served as Associate Pastor at St. and truthfulness.

Finally, we pray for Mother Augustine, Culver City (1991-1993); St. Martha, Earth, our common home, as Pope Valinda (1993-1999); and St. Joseph the Francis reminds us. May we, ev- Worker, Canoga Park (1999-2001). In 2001, ery citizen of this globe, protect it he served as Administrator Pro Tem of St. from further destructions. May we John Neumann in Santa Maria, CA, until his follow our conscience to preserve appointment as pastor of ImmAaculate Heart its beauty and richness. May we of Mary, Los Angeles, in 2002, which lasted all be good and kind stewards of 12 years. His term as Associate Director of Pastoral Field Education at St. John’s God’s creation.

We pray to our Mother, Mary. Seminary began in July 2014.

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C DECEMBER 24-27, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Special report: Shopping malls Legal status: A wonderful boost PH economic growth Christmas gift for your family by doris

duMlao-abadilla Inquirer.net

ON a typical weekend, close to half a million people flock to SM City North Edsa, nearly double the entire population of some South Pacific territories, like Vanuatu or New Caledonia.

Built on sprawling grassland in 1985, a year before the Edsa People Power Revolution that toppled dictator Ferdinand Marcos, SM City North Edsa was the country’s first massive shopping mall that opened its doors despite the tumultuous political situation then.

This was also said to be where it all began—where the seeds of the malling culture was sowed among Filipinos on an idle piece of land in what was once a quiet part of Quezon City.

It was in North Edsa where tycoon Henry Sy Sr., founder of the SM group, became a legend at spotting opportunities. The buildit-and-they-will-come gambit worked and over the following decades, SM group would replicate this strategy in other parts of the metropolis, in the provinces and

Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

Customers flock to SM Megamall, which is part of SM Group’s gambit of build-it-and-they-willcome.

Inquirer.net photo by Jilson Seckler Tiu

even in China.

Over the years, shopping malls got prettier and more diversified in their offerings as competition became tougher. Big property developers like Ayala Land Inc. and Robinsons Land Corp. also expanded their own shopping mall empires in Metro Manila and the provinces.

From big box-type malls, design has evolved to incorporate more sustainability features, greenery, open space and entertainment areas that cater to

More foreign, local firms investing in tourism projects

by Mary

Grace Philstar.com

Padin

MANILA - More foreign and domestic companies are interested to invest in tourism-related projects now that the government has a proper framework for the grant of incentives to tourism enterprises, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) said.

TIEZA chief operating officer Guiller Asido told The STAR, local parties, as well as Chinese delegates, recently expressed their interest to invest in the country after the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued the guidelines on the grant of fiscal incentives to businesses and operators inside tourism enterprise zones (TEZs).

“After the BIR released the revenue regulation, there were two foreign delegations that already visited the country...from two large Chinese companies,” Asido said over the phone.

“They were looking for areas where they can invest in,” he said, adding these companies are eyeing areas where they can put up mixed-use developments.

Aside from these foreign firms, Asido said an increased number of domestic investors have also approached the TIEZA to explore investment opportunities.

TIEZA chief operating officer Guiller Asido told The Star, local parties, as well as Chinese delegates, recently expressed their interest to invest in the country after the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued the guidelines on the grant of fiscal incentives to businesses and operators inside tourism enterprise zones (TEZs).

“Many are already inquiring. They’re reviewing the IRR (implementing rules and regulations) of the revenue regulation,” Asido said.

Investors and enterprises within TEZs can apply for incentives under the new regulation. TIEZA may also decide to provide incentives to businesses and establishments outside of TEZs. They can choose among a sixyear tax holiday, or a five percent PAGE D2

‘Central bank, AMLC execs must resign’ Duterte says ‘I will treat you as drug addicts’

by catherine

s. Valente ManilaTimes.net

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, Dec. 22 told officials of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) to resign, claiming they were playing politics and hampering the government’s anti-corruption efforts.

In remarks after signing the 2017 national budget, Duterte described the BSP and AMLC officials as a bunch of crooks who were still “hungry” for money despite their fat salaries, but did not name names.

“I’m going to charge all of you there, criminally. I’ll count one to three, and if you don’t resign, I will treat you as a drug addicts,” he said.

“You guys there are all corrupt, bantay kayo sa akin [I’ll keep an eye on you]. I will bring you down. [BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr.] is about to retire. Better prepare there because I’ll give you a whack. You are all, you are all corrupt and serving [a]master. You are not supposed to engage in politics, God damn it,” the President said.

Duterte even threatened to transfer the country’s monetary reserves to overseas banks.

“You are paid you to do your job. If you cannot do your job, get out from that office because I’ll transfer to the Bank of China. They have more money. Your money is nothing. Or Bank of America, when we get, when I get to shake the hands

of [US President-elect] Donald Trump,” Duterte said.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre 2nd clarified that Duterte was only asking for the resignation three AMLC officials, two of them embattled Sen. Leila de Lima’s “fraternity brothers.”

“The President was referring to the people implementing the law. The one in the office of the executive director, the deputy, and the head of investigation,” Aguirre told reporters in a chance interview in Malacañang.

The AMLC’s executive director is lawyer Julia Bacay-Abad, who is assisted by lawyers Ruel Bumatay and Ma. Rhea Santos-Mendoza.

The agency’s compliance and investigation group is headed by Vencent Salido, also a lawyer. Roland Villaluz, another lawyer, heads the legal services group.

The higher-level council is composed of Tetangco, Securities and Exchange Commission chief Teresita Herbosa, and the head of the Insurance Commission, a vacant position as its erstwhile head, Emmanuel Dooc, has been named president of the Social Security System.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has been requesting from the AMLC documents for its investigation into drug-related transactions involving de Lima, who is accused of getting protection money from drug syndicates in the New Bilibid Prison.

Aguirre has complained that while the DOJ had received documents from AMLC, these were PAGE D2

more discerning consumers.

These new malls can compete with their peers in other parts of the world.

Revenue growth In 2015, SM Prime rental revenue from commercial spaces grew by 12 percent to P40.7 billion, of which 87 percent, or around P35 billion, was contributed by SM malls. As of end2015, SM Prime had 56 malls in the Philippines with 7.3 million square meters of gross floor area PAGE D4

AN important part of Christmas is buying gifts for loved ones. Filipinos are busy filling their balikbayan boxes with pasalubong, to send to their families “back home.” The pasalubong may consist of clothes, food items, electronics, or other useful items, given as a way of “sharing one’s blessings.”

However, many Filipinos forget about what could be the most important “gift” for their family members: legalizing their status, or finding a way for their family members to immigrate to the U.S. and be reunited, under the same roof, not only during Christmas, but all year round. I know that some people have been separated from their family members for many years, because they have not done anything about their immigration situation. Yet if you

ask the family members back home, they probably believe that nothing that could be bought in any store would mean as much as the family being together.

If you have not yet done anything about your immigration situation, and are spending yet another lonely Christmas in the U.S., maybe now is the right time to switch your spending priorities – from the usual balikbayan box items to the real gift a family wants – being together in the U.S. Or at least make a New Year’s resolution to finally take steps to either legalize your status and/or bring your family to America.

On behalf of myself and my law office, Maligayang Pasko sa inyong lahat! ***

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 attorney-client 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)

Business Quote of the Week “Many great ideas go unexecuted, and many great executioners are without ideas.

One without the other is worthless.”

- Tim Blixseth, The Blixseth Group

D december 24-27, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

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BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr.

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Our affiliate brokers are “Many Filipino americans are unaware of how health enrollment experts. In person insurance can help pay for or over the phone, they’ll help services in a hospital. No one you understand all your opplans a trip to the hospital, tions and walk you through but it’s those moments that every step to make sure you we need to be prepared for find the best plan and doctors the most.” - Liza abcede, available. Contact our certiMBa, BsN, CCRN, Vice Presi- fied Covered Ca insurance dent/Chief Nurse executive, agents at no cost to you and dignity Health – Glendale get started before the enrollment period ends. For more Memorial Hospital The open enrollment pe- information, call (818) 863riod for 2017 coverage begins 6518 or visit dignityHealth. Liza Abcede, MBA, BSN, CCRN, Vice President/Chief Nurse Executive, Dignity Health – Glendale Memorial The offer was made through November 1st, 2016. If you org/enroll.

(Advertising Supplement) Hospital Finance secretary Carlos domin- do not have health insurguez.

The outgoing BsP governor has expressed elation over the gesture, saying it would be an honor to stay longer in his post. by mayvelin u. caRaballo instill among investors the disci- lowing incentives: 5 percent However, he said his fate would ManilaTimes.net pline of making annual contribu- income tax credit on the actual be up to the President and ConFILIPINOs can now prepare tions to their own account. PeRa PeRa contribution; tax exempgress. for their retirement by voluntary was created under Republic act tion from the 20 percent final Tetangco has said he was con- investing in a newly launched 9505. withholding tax from interest on fident the BsP would continue to tool, Personal equity Retirement Ra 9505 or the PeRa act of bank deposits substitutes and effectively carry out its mandate account (PeRa), which aims to 2008 promotes capital market trust funds; 10 percent final withof maintaining financial stability promote capital market developdevelopment and savings mobi- holding tax on dividends; capital whoever heads it. ment and savings mobilization lization by establishing a legal gains tax on disposition of shares “He will have the support of by establishing a legal and reguand regulatory framework of of stock; and regular income tax a committed, competent team,” latory framework of retirement retirement plans for persons, on PeRa products. he said. plans for persons. comprised of voluntary personal PeRa assets may not be conas a central banker, Tetangco Launched on Friday, dec. 16, savings and investments. sidered as assets for the purpose has reaped numerous awards at the Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas “The state recognizes the of insolvency and estate taxes. from the international banking (BsP) Complex, PeRa provides potential contribution of PeRa “since we have a very young community. tax benefits and is expected to to long-term fiscal sustainability population and typically strong through the, provision of long- family ties, we tend to overlook term financing and reduction of preparing for own retirement. social pension benefits,” accord- PeRa addresses this by providing ing to the law. all the essential elements—from Unlike existing national or cor- governance to products to finanporate pension schemes, PeRa cial literacy to incentives— so does not require a deduction that we can properly get started,” from one’s salary to accumulate BsP Governor amando Tetangco funds. Instead, it relies on an Jr., said during the launch. individual’s decision to invest up Open a PeRa account may be to P100,000 annually. done through accredited PeRa Overseas Filipinos workers are administrators. PeRa investment provided the additional benefit managers can advise investors. of being able to invest twice the The BsP and the Bureau of normal limit or up to P200,000 Internal Revenue have so far acannually. credited Banco de Oro and Bank PeRa also allows individuals of the Philippine Islands as PeRa to voluntarily open up to five ac- institutional administrators, in counts invested in specific PeRa- addition to 61 professionals who accredited product lines. have passed the individual PeRa a PeRa account has the fol- accreditation examination.

House bill filed to extend anew Tetangco’s term

by Jess

diaz Philstar.com

MaNILa – a Mindanao congressman has filed a bill that would pave the way for the appointment of outgoing Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas (BsP) Governor amando Tetangco Jr. to an unprecedented third term.

Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Maximo Rodriguez Jr., an administration ally, said under the law, the BsP governor and other members of the Monetary Board have a term of office of six years with one reappointment.

However, he said there should be exceptions for those “who deserve to stay longer because of the exemplary job that they are doing.”

He said an extended term would

allow these functionaries “to finish what they have started.”

“Many investors in the country are saying that the key to maintaining investor confidence is having a reputable finance secretary and an equally reputable BsP governor,” he added.

Under the Rodriguez bill, a member of the Monetary Board would have a term of office of six years and may be reappointed not more than twice.

In Tetangco’s case, he was appointed in 2005 and reappointed in 2011. His term will expire in July next year.

President duterte has reportedly offered Tetangco a third term, which would require the amendment of Republic act 7653 or the New Central Bank act.

Retirement investment tool PERA launched

Investment agencies reaffirm pledge to boost PH competitiveness

by Richmond

meRcuRio Philstar.com

MaNILa – The investment promotion units (IPUs) of 28 government agencies have reaffirmed their commitment to further promote the Philippines as investment destination of choice.

The IPUs committed to enhance their collaboration and complementation efforts in facilitating and assisting existing and potential investors to make the country a more attractive investment destination.

The Board of Investment (BOI), being the lead government agency in investments promotion, convened the IPUs to discuss the group’s initiatives and how all the members can sustain efforts to improve the business environment in the country.

The BOI said this can be done through streamlining of procedures and establishment of close coordination between and among the concerned government agencies on matters involving investments and investors’ issues and concerns.

“The group has been instrumental in investment facilitation activities including the removal and reduction of barriers and impediments to investments such as but not limited to trade and industry liberalization, institutional/structural reforms,

simplification of business procedures, and among other concerns of foreign and domestic investors,” BOI director for investment assistance domingo Bagaporo said. among the most issues and concerns received by the IPUs this year were related to investment policies and guidelines, follow-ups on pending applications and requests, and those related to fraud, misrepresentations, and inquiry about the legitimacy of companies.

“We will continue to strive in creating initiatives to further improve our international competitiveness in the ease of doing business to generate more investments for the country, and more jobs for the Filipino people,” Bagaporo added.

The IPU Network is composed of the BOI, Bangko sentral ng Pilipinas, Bureau of Customs, Food and drug administration, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Civil service Commission, Commission on Information and Communications Technology, department of agrarian Reform, department of agriculture, department of energy, department of environment and Natural Resources, department of Finance, department of Foreign affairs, department of Interior and Local Government, department of Labor and employment, and the department of Public Works and Highways.

More foreign, local firms...

PAGE D1 preferential tax on gross income in lieu of national taxes (except for real property tax and fees of TIeZa) or a net operating loss carry over scheme.

They can also be granted import tax exemptions for capital goods and equipment, and for transport equipment and spare parts for TIeZa-registered activities, among others.

Non-fiscal incentives or those not covered by the revenue regulation can also be given to the registered enterprises, including the employment of foreign nationals, importation of professional instruments and household effect, special investor’s resident visa, foreign currency transaction, requisition of investment and lease or ownership of land.

TIeZa is confident the provision of incentives would enable a competitive environment among industry players and encourage them to offer lower rates for their products and services, thereby attracting more tourists to come to the country. asido said the agency has yet to identify new areas in the country that can be designated as TeZs. To date, TIeZa has already designated five flagship TeZs and seven ordinary TeZs, the latest of which is Kingdom Global City in davao City. asido said the agency is currently focusing its efforts on formulating its tourism investment promotion framework to attract more firms to consider tourismrelated projects.

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PH mobile internet speed fastest in Asia in Q3 Filipino customers guaranteed

by LoueLLa

D. DesiDerio Philstar.com

MANILA - The Philippines had the fastest average mobile internet speed in Asia Pacific in the third quarter, according to the latest report of content delivery network services provider Akamai.

Akamai’s Q3 2016 State of the Internet report released earlier this month showed the Philippines had an average mobile internet speed of 13.9 mbps for the July to September period of this year, the fastest in the Asia Pacific region.

Akamai said it included the Philippines in the list of Asia Pacific countries even as the country was unable to meet the minimum requirement of having 25,000 unique IPv4 addresses classified as mobile, for reference.

Excluding the Philippines from the list of Asia Pacific countries, Australia had the fastest average mobile internet speed of 12.8 mbps.

Japan placed second with an average mobile internet speed of 11.6 mbps, while South Korea ranked third with 11.2 mbps.

Indonesia and New Zealand got the fourth and fifth spots with their respective average mobile internet speeds of 10.9 mbps and 10.8 mbps.

Placing sixth was Taiwan (9.4 mbps), followed by China (8.9 mbps) at seventh place and Singapore (8.5 mbps) ranking eighth.

Hong Kong and Thailand, which both had an average mobile internet speed of 6.1 mbps, got the ninth place, followed by Sri Lanka (5.4 mbps), India and Malaysia (3.5 mbps) and Vietnam (3.4 mbps).

In Akamai’s Q2 2016 State of the Internet report, the Philippines had an average mobile internet speed of 8.5 mbps in the April to June period.

Ramon Isberto, public affairs head of Smart Communications Inc., said in a telephone interview that while there was qualification with respect to the inclusion of the Philippines in the list, the report shows improvements in terms of mobile internet speed.

“Even with the qualifications, the report seems to reflect the investments we

have been making in mobile internet particularly 4G or LTE (Long Term Evolution),” he said.

He said the data also shows the impact of the utilization of new frequencies telco players PLDT Inc. and Globe Telecom Inc. gained access to after their purchase of San Miguel Corp.’s telecom business last May 30.

“We expect to see more of the impact of it in the first quarter of next year. We were only beginning to roll out the new frequencies, particularly the 700 Megahertz (Mhz) in the third quarter,” he said.

Both PLDT and Globe have said earlier, the use of new frequencies is expected to allow the telcos to deliver improved mobile internet services to subscribers.

PH may outperform Asia again in Q4 by raaDee

s. sausa ManilaTimes.net

THE government is positive the Philippines will be among the top performing emerging economies in Asia this year, expecting further growth of 7.1 percent in the fourth quarter and claiming reduced criminality in the country.

The Philippines was the fastest-growing Asian economy in the third quarter, posting gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 7.1 percent, according to the National Economic Development Authority.

Citing the government achievements so far under the new administration, Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez said industry growth was a robust 6.9 percent, manufacturing posted 8.4 percent and agriculture con-

tributed a positive 3 percent or 4 percent after several quarters of negative. “I think the start of this administration was good,” he said.

“We did 7.1 GDP in the third quarter, so hopefully by the fourth quarter, we’ll have another 7.1 [percent]or more,” Lopez said earlier this week.

Philippine Statistics Authority data for the third quarter shows the Philippines outpaced China’s 6.7 percent, Vietnam’s 6.4 percent, Indonesia’s 5 percent and Malaysia’s 4.3 percent.

“From all indications—robust economy and demand, a lower unemployment rate of 4.7, with more people getting employed, a larger base population, then expect a stronger spending power pulling up consumption spending—we

think the momentum is here, leading into 2017,” Lopez said.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar has also claimed the Philippines “is now safer from theft,” including car theft, “robbery, physical injury and rape.”

Lopez also cited an internet report called “Safer Philippines” posted on December 19, which says crime has gone down in the country by more than 34,000 incidents, 500 less rapes, 14,600 less theft. “This is a good indication in terms of security, [that we have]a safer country, and investors like that also. So the core culture of the country should be sound first.”

“We’re taking steps in the right direction. Under the 10-point economic agenda, each of the items there is moving,” Lopez added.

top service at Hooman Chrysler Hyundai Dodge Jeep Ram

For many folks, buying a car is often stressful and laborious.

Figuring out finances, picking out the right make and model and deciding on the right dealership are just among the few things to worry about when making one of the most important purchases.

But at Hooman Chrysler Hyundai Dodge Jeep ram, consumers are guaranteed honest service from an unrivaled team of sales consultants and managers.

General Manager Manny Martinez – who describes himself as a “die hard Filipino” -- has been in the automobile industry for decades and understands the importance of customer satisfaction. At Hooman, he and his expert team make that a company priority.

Hooman is dedicated to providing quality service and reasonable prices, regardless of customers’ credit. Working with reliable banks, they are able to approve clients no matter the circumstances: first time buyers with little credit history, customers undergoing bankruptcy, families who have experience home foreclosures and customers with credit issues. Whatever the situation, Hooman is sure to deliver.

Where other dealerships merely claim to cater to those with credit issues, Hooman makes it a prime concern to make sure that credit doesn’t deter anyone from purchasing a car. Moreover, Hyundai and Chrysler, in particular, are able to grant generous rebates, which can help when putting a down payment on an automobile.

Since taking over as GM in September, Martinez has been putting together a special team of Filipino American managers and salespeople to help Filipino clients. Martinez sought to cater to the Filipino community in this way because he knows that trust and loyalty are huge elements in the business of automobiles.

“We love the Filipinos because they deserve to get a new car because they work hard and they are very, very good people.

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They are good citizens of this country and they deserve to be assisted even if they have really bad credit,” Martinez said.

Currently on his Tagalogspeaking team are Used Car and rental Fleet Director Patrick Toledo and Sales Consultant Arvin Aberilla who were handpicked for their experience, integrity and their dedication to deliver first-class service to clients.

Serving the Filipino-American community has always been a mission for Martinez, who was a part of the first car dealership to advertise to the Filipino

community in 1995.

“My priority is always the Filipino community since I got into the car business in 1989,” Martinez said. “We’ve always treated Filipinos with a lot of respect, and they’ve always been very loyal.”

Hooman Chrysler Hyundai Dodge Jeep ram is located on 333 Hindry Ave., Inglewood, CA 90301 and are opened Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. To call for more information, call (310) 846-1300.

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Special report: Shopping malls boost...

DUTERTE-SIGNED BANKNOTES RELEASED. The new P1000 bill with President Rodrigo Duterte’s signature. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas started releasing 27 million pieces of banknotes worth P8.75 billion bearing President Rodrigo Duterte’s signature on Tuesday, December 20.

Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez

Ayala Corp. wins bid for Chevron’s Indonesia, PH geothermal assets

by Daxim

L. Lucas

Star Energy Geothermal Pte. Ltd., and Electricity Generating Public THE power generation arm Company Ltd. The acquisition of conglomerate Ayala Corp. will will be made through their joint acquire significant stakes in the venture company, Star Energy geothermal assets being sold by Geothermal (Salak-Darajat) B.V. On the other hand, the Philipmultinational energy giant Chevron, the holding firm of the Zobel pine consortium consists of AC Energy and Star Energy Group family said.

In a press statement, Ayala and the acquisition will be made Corp. said its wholly owned sub- through their joint venture comsidiary AC Energy Holdings Inc. pany, ACEHI-STAR Holdings Inc. “The closing of the transaction – as part of separate Indonesian and Philippine consortia is made subject to the satisfaction – signed share-sale-and-purchase of certain agreed conditions,” agreements with Chevron Global Ayala Corp. added in its caveat.

Energy Inc., Union Oil Co. of Cali- “In particular, for the acquisition fornia and their affiliates for the of the Philippine asset, the clospurchase of Chevron’s geothermal ing is subject to obtaining certain operations in Indonesia and the consents and approvals, including the approval of the Philippine Philippines.

The purchase price was not Competition Commission.”

“This acquisition is a major disclosed.

The Indonesia consortium milestone for AC Energy as this consists of AC Energy (with 19.8- scales up our renewable energy percent economic stake), Star platform and establishes our presEnergy Group Holdings Pte. Ltd., ence in Indonesia. This is a sigInquirer.net

nificant step towards attaining our goal of reaching 2000 megawatts by 2020,” AC Energy president and CEO John Eric Francia said.

In Indonesia, Chevron subsidiaries operate the Darajat and Salak geothermal fields in West Java, with a combined capacity of 235MW equivalent of steam and 402MW of electricity. In the Philippines, company subsidiaries have a 40-percent equity interest in Philippine Geothermal Production Co. Inc., which operates the Tiwi and Mak-Ban geothermal field in Southern Luzon and supplies steam to power plants with a combined name plate capacity of around 700 MW. Clifford Chance Pte Ltd. acted as the lead transaction counsel to the Consortium. Credit Suisse acted as the Sole Financial Advisor and Joint Financier to the Consortium. BPI and DBS acted as lead coordinators for the debt financing.

‘Central bank, AMLC execs must...

PAGE D1

incomplete.

In contrast, bank records of personalities targeted by the previous Aquino administration—the late chief justice Renato Corona and former vice president Jejomar Binay—had been leaked to the media.

This was not the first time the President lashed out at the BSP

and AMLC. President Duterte on November 14 hit the BSP and AMLC for being “hard to deal with” and for protecting money launderers.

“The Secretary of Justice now says that you are hard to deal with.

You better go to the Secretary of Justice or I will go to you. I will call for you and you have to answer so many questions to me,” the Presi-

dent said in remarks during the 80th founding anniversary of the National Bureau of Investigation last month.

The President also challenged the BSP and the AMLC to explain why they did not look into reports that he had P211 million in bank accounts, which he supposedly did not declare in his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth.

PAGE D1 (GFA) and six shopping malls in China with 900,000 sq m of GFA. China contributed less than 5 percent of revenue. Around 51 percent of mall revenues were derived from Metro Manila.

For Ayala Land, revenue from shopping centers reached P13.37 billion in 2015, 18 percent higher year-on-year.

In its fiscal year ending September 2015, Gokongwei-led Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC) rental revenues from commercial centers grew by 13 percent to P9.12 billion, of which P1.87 billion came from affiliated companies, such as Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI). During this fiscal year, RLC operated 40 shopping malls.

The malls make their main impact on the economy in the construction phase. After that, it will be in support services, according to Jose Mari Lacson, ATR Asset Management head of research.

“It’s the retail sector that is a larger portion of the economy and it is the mall segment that enables retailers to achieve critical mass faster,” Lacson said.

Big employers Malls are among the largest employers in the Philippines.

The 44 malls that RLC operates employ 100,000 people, excluding outsourced workers.

About 100,000 also are employed in 45 Ayala malls, including those in “anchor” stores like Landmark and Rustan’s.

Kevin Tan, senior vice president and head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, said his company’s malls and commercial centers were employing about 100,000, excluding the workers hired during construction.

SM Prime, the country’s largest mall operator, said its 60 malls around the country employed around 370,000 people this year.

Aside from rental revenue from affiliated malls, revenue generated by three leading mall-based retail groups—SM Retail, RRHI and the Tantoco family’s SSI Group—accounted for roughly 2.4 percent ofthe country’s gross domestic product in 2015, according to Lacson.

To ensure that SM shopping malls continue contributing to the economy, SM Prime chief finance officer John Ong said the group expanded mall features over the years.

The group has incorporated

business process outsourcing (BPO) and office towers in estates anchored by shopping malls alongside sky gardens, sky parks and performing arts theaters in some of its regional malls.

Mall of Asia will have a Galleon Museum and its top level will feature a football field. Seaside Cebu and Cabanatuan have playgrounds.

Townships Megaworld integrates residential and commercial establishments into “townships,” which are “economic clusters” that generate direct employment in businesses such as BPOs, retail outlets, hotels, construction and security, as well as indirect employment like jobs in transportation and food processing.

Tan said Megaworld malls and townships were designed to be tourist destinations. “Tourism is the fastest way to create many jobs, which is ultimately good for the Philippines,” he said.

Arlene Magtibay, RLC general manager for commercial centers division, said each of their shopping malls contributed “very significantly” to the local economy, generating thousands of jobs and high revenues for the host city.

In addition, Magtibay said the communities benefited from RLC malls’ sustainable operations that lessened competition with the localities for vital resources through the use of solar power, recycled wastewater and rainwater.

Myrna Cruz-Fernandez, Ayala Land vice president and head of Ayala Malls, said innovations were geared toward constantly enhancing the mix of stores, events and promotions, and customer service.

Mindful of the social and environmental impact of malls, open spaces, parks and greenery, which help lower energy requirements, have become key features of Ayala Malls. Their landscape also uses native trees and plants, Fernandez said.

P2P bus services Ayala Malls also promote walkability and transit-connectivity to enhance transportation terminals and make them more comfortable, according to Fernandez.

Ayala Malls have invested or teamed up with bus operators to offer point-to-point (P2P) bus services to and from Glorietta, Trinoma, Alabang Town Center and Ayala Malls South Park.

RLC’s P2P with HM Transport Inc. takes passengers from Fairview to Makati and vice versa. SM

Prime has invested in its own bus transport system in Cebu to bring people to SM Seaside City.

SM Prime and ALI derive the bulk of their revenues from Metro Manila but contributions from provincial areas are getting bigger.

Far from saturation point The market will grow even more as infrastructure and transportation projects are completed, said ALI’s Fernandez.

“Given a young and growing Philippine population, and many new store concepts coming in, we think the market is not yet at its saturation point, even in Metro Manila,” she said.

Considering the mall per capita as well as shopping mall per square kilometer in the metropolis, SM Prime’s Ong agreed that Metro Manila was still “considerably far” from the saturation point.

Ong said that since many malls were not easily accessible to customers and considering heavy traffic, more retail hubs could be built closer to communities.

Young tycoon Edgar Sia II saw that opportunity to build more shopping malls in provincial areas, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Sia built his fortune on the popular Mang Inasal. He sold his stake to rival Jollibee Foods Corp., made friends with its founder, Tony Tan Caktiong, and they teamed up on a property development venture.

Their DoubleDragon Properties Corp.—so-called because they both were born in the Year of the Dragon—will complete building a chain of 100 community shopping malls across the country by 2020.

Seeing this potential, the country’s largest conglomerate—SM Investments Corp.—acquired a 34-percent stake in DoubleDragon’s subsidiary, CityMall Commercial Centers Inc. (CMCCI), which is building the community malls.

Cinemas in provinces CMCCI recently teamed up with broadcast giant ABS-CBN to roll out cinemas in the provinces.

ABS-CBN will manage the booking and the food and beverage operations of the theaters while CityMall will build the cinema infrastructure.

Ten cinemas, each seating 100 to 120 people, are scheduled to open in CityMalls in Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao in the PAGE D5

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PH to open OFW bank in Sept 2017 – DOF

by Mayvelin

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

The Land Bank of the Philippines will open in September next year a P3 billion bank which will be partly owned by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Finance (DOF) said on Tuesday, Dec. 20.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said the OFW bank will be established through LandBank’s acquisition of the Philippine Postal Savings Bank, which will be converted into a LandBank subsidiary that will be owned 30 percent by OFWs. “The acquisition of the Postal Bank will be completed by the third quarter of 2017, after all required procedures are completed and approvals are secured. The LandBank has sufficient resources to complete this transaction,” said Dominguez, who chairs the LandBank board of directors.

As of September 30 this year, LandBank ranked as the country’s 4th largest commercial bank with total capital of P90.9 billion and assets worth P1.3 trillion.

The DOF noted that a bank dedicated to the needs of OFWs is one of the promises of President Rodrigo Duterte to Filipino migrant workers.

LandBank President Alex Buenaventura said it would take eight months to accomplish the requirements that would convert the Postal Bank into a LandBank subsidiary.

“The OFW bank will be a listed company with an autho-

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez

rized capital of P3 billion and a subscribed capit al of P2 billion, of which P1 billion is paid up by the LandBank. Another P1 billion will be open for subscription to OFWs who can acquire them by buying shares in the bank,” Buenaventura said.

The DOF said LandBank will have to seek clearances from the Governance Commission for Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GCG) and the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), as well as approvals from the Monetary Board, Securities and exchange Commission (SeC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for the OFW bank to be operational

Weak peso lures balikbayans into real estate investment

by Catherine

talavera ManilaTimes.net

The stronger dollar versus the peso and the growth of property values over time are attracting balikbayans, or overseas Filipinos returning to the country, to invest in real estate in the Philippines, according to a top property listing site.

In a statement on its website, Lamudi Philippines noted that real estate is a good investment option for balikbayans as it helps them maintain their financial health.

“While there are a variety of ways overseas Filipinos can invest their hard-earned cash in, many believe that the wisest financial decision would be to put their money aside for a property purchase, either as a first home or an investment property,” Lamudi said.

Investing in real estate is also in line with the goals of balikbayans to provide a good life for themselves and their families, the property listing site said.

“But more than just having a decent salary and providing a good life for their families, it is also very important for every overseas Filipino to save and take care of their financial health—and in the process, secure their future,” Lamudi said.

“Being unable to do so will just negate the short-term benefits of earning enough at present and will render all their sacrifices pointless—for it is the future financial well-being that every one of us must prepare for,” it added.

Among the top advantages of investing in real estate is the value appreciation it offers over time. “Real estate is something that comes in finite quantities.

This ensures that what you invested in right now will be worth more five or 10 years from now,” Lamudi said.

It noted that demand for homes is always present, be it from expat renters, newlywed couples and starting families looking to find a good place to raise kids; or even

a growing family whose kids are now starting to go to school and therefore need a place that is as accessible as it is livable.

Property investments can also be utilized in different ways, like leasing it out to cater to the growing Filipino workforce in the Metro Manila’s business districts, it said.

“With a constant stream of renters coming into the market, a rental condo is a great way to earn passive income,” the property listing site said.

In addition, it said that balikbayans are now more capable of investing in properties due to the depreciation of the Philippine peso against the US dollar.

On Monday, the Philippine peso closed at P49.96 to the dollar, 4 centavos lower from the P49.92 exchange rate recorded on Friday, Dec. 16.

In a separate report, real estate services firm Jones Lang LaSalle noted that the weakening of the peso against the dollar could fuel stronger demand for residential properties from overseas Filipinos due to their higher spending power.

“The recent PhP depreciation against the US dollar may strengthen the purchasing power of overseas Filipino families, potentially increasing overseas Filipino demand for residential units,” JLL said.

Competition to attract buyers in the market is driving developers to offer new amenities to their developments, Lamudi said.

“In order to set themselves apart from their competitors, Philippine real estate developers are coming up with clever ways to provide their buyers more value for their money’s worth,” Lamudi observed.

It cited Megaworld Corporation as one such developer, which introduced new amenities such as coworking spaces for budding entrepreneurs, multipurpose spaces for socials and events, and pause and play rooms, in its Makati condo projects such as The ellis and San Antonio Residences.

Special report: Shopping...

PAGE D4 second quarter of 2017.

Property magnate Manuel Villar Jr., founder of Vista Land & Lifescapes (VLL), is a relatively late entrant in the shopping mall business but with the group’s vast properties, he expects to scale up rapidly.

“With the worsening traffic [congestion] these days, you don’t want to drive for three hours just to watch a movie. But the problem with the neighborhood malls is that they are too small. So, if you can come up with smaller but nice malls, people will come,” Villar said.

Vista Land plans to invest around P18 billion to build 10 new shopping malls in the next two years—a massive expansion program that could catapult it to the ranks of the country’s leading mall developers. At present, VLL has 17 malls with a combined GFA of 910,000 sq m.

Challenges Fernandez said internet and

smartphone penetration were also driving interest in e-commerce, while RLC’s Magtibay noted the increasing interface between online and traditional shopping.

Online shopping is seen as competing with the physical malls for the youth market—the millennials who are naturally wired to the digital space. All shopping mall developers recognize this and are preparing for it.

“Online shopping is on the rise.

With its increasing popularity, our malls need to constantly evolve to offer experiences that cannot be had online,” Magtibay said.

Megaworld’s Tan acknowledged that the “shift to everything digital and on demand” was bringing both challenges and opportunities.

“From creative visual merchandising to creating new and unique customer service strategies, engaging your customers in a world full of digital distraction is very important,” he said.

by September 1, 2017.

“We are going to do focus group discussions with representatives of our target markets to determine where and what services are needed, and what name and logo to adopt for the bank,” Buenaventura said.

While the OFW bank is still in the process of being established, Dominguez said LandBank “will seek to establish a unit in Saudi Arabia to assist the OFWs there.”

LandBank will set up a representative office in Saudi Arabia to cater to the banking needs of some 800,000 Filipino workers based in that country.

Buenaventura said LandBank decided to open its Saudi unit in Riyadh because 40 percent of OFWs based in that country reside there.

“The LandBank unit will be opened near the Philippine labor office or near a place where OFWs usually converge and meet,” he said.

Buenaventura said the Riyadh unit will initially offer financial education and investment counseling services to OFWs. he said that starting January 2, 2017, LandBank, with the involvement of the Commission on Audit and the BSP, will begin undertaking due diligence to start the process of converting the Postal Bank into a LandBank subsidiary.

LandBank would also have to draw up a purchase agreement and amend its articles and bylaws to formalize its acquisition of the Postal Bank, he added.

Meet the very limited Ferrari J50 The mouth-watering automobile you’re now looking at is the Ferrari J50, the Italian carmaker’s way of commemorating its 50th anniversary in Japan (hence, the car’s name). It was unveiled last week during an event held at the National Art Center in Tokyo.

If the two-seater, mid-rear-engineed roadster seems familiar, that’s because it’s based on the 488 Spider. Ferrari says it marks “a return to the targa body style evocative of several well-loved Ferrari road cars of the ’70s and the ’80s.”

The J50 was created by the Maranello-based carmaker’s Special Projects department, and penned by the Ferrari Styling Center (also based in Maranello). how exclusive is this car? It will be limited to just 10 very rare units, each one to be tailored

specifically to the customer’s requirements.

According to Ferrari, the J50 will be powered by a 680hp 3.9liter V8 engine.

In spite of the familiar lines, Ferrari claims “the bodywork is all new and heralds a radically futuristic design language, with a highly distinctive personality that suits the tastes of a clientele that seeks the utmost in innovative styling.”

Unique design elements include the slanted top edge of the side window; the raked black swage line that dramatically rises from the low-set nose until it vanishes in the air intake aft of the doors; the “helmet visor” effect, which spawns from the window graphic; a hood section that is lower at the center with raised wheel-arch crests; two

carbon-fiber air channels in the front hood that create an even more diminutive and sharperlooking front mass; a transparent polycarbonate engine cover that is intricately shaped to provide a visual extension of the two separate roll hoops; a transverse aero foil that projects as a bridge between the hoops; the quad taillight design that widens the car visually under a high-downforce wing profile; and 20-inch forged rims crafted specifically for this limited-edition model.

The J50 unit presented at the Tokyo launch is finished in a special three-layer shade of red, with a red-over-black interior trimmed in fine leather and Alcantara.

No price was announced, and we don’t even want to guess.

(ManilaTimes.net)

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