LA Weekend Edition -- December 3 -- 6, 2016

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LOS ANGELES

W E E W K EE N EWD K EE ENKDE N D M I D W E E K

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

E DITION December 3-6, 2016

Volume 26 - No. 97 • 4 Sections – 30 Pages

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The Philippines placed on Terror Alert 3

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Palace: Alert is consistent with state of lawlessness

tor Ronald Dela Rosa announced earlier in the day that the whole country has been placed under MALACAÑANG said on Thurs- “terror alert level three.”

After the Davao night market day, December 1, that the heightened security alert in the Philip- bombing that killed 15 people pines is “consistent with the and injured 69 last September declaration of state of national 2, President Rodrigo Duterte emergency or the declaration of placed the country under a “state of lawlessness,” which permits state of lawless violence.”

This comes after Philippine Na- the government to use the militional Police (PNP) Chief Direc- tary in helping to counter terror

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

threats.

“The PNP placed in Alert 3 to confirm with PNP Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) which put the whole PNP in extreme alert for terrorists who might commit similar acts of planting bombs in Metro Manila,” Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said.

Dela Rosa made the height-

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House passes bill to award Fil-Am WWII vets with Congressional Gold Medal

by KLARIZE

Bill headed for Obama’s signature

MEDENILLA

AJPress

November 30.

Photo courtesy of the The Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project

Trump invites Duterte to visit White House during a ‘very engaging, animated’ phone call According to Christopher “Bong” Go, Duterte’s special advisor, the two leaders had a conUNITED States President- versation on Friday night, Deelect Donald Trump has in- cember 2. He said the call, which vited Philippine President started at 10:30 p.m. (PHT), lastRodrigo Duterte to visit the ed just about seven minutes.

White House next year during In response to the White House a “very engaging, animated” invitation, Duterte also invited telephone call between the Trump to attend the 2017 Associtwo leaders, a Malacañang of- ation of Southeast Asian Nations ficial confirmed.

(ASEAN) Summit, which will be

by AJPRESS

LA Fil-Ams outraged by Marcos burial, join in global protest

by KLARIZE

FILIPINO and Filipino-American soldiers who fought in World War II are now closer to being honored with one of the highest civilian awards in the United States.

The United States House of Representatives on Thursday, November 30 passed S. 1555, also known as the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Medal Act of 2015, securing complete approval from Congress.

Representatives of the Filipino Veteran Recognition and Education Project and veterans await the The bill—which now awaits a passage of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Medal Act of 2015 on Wednesday,

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Filipinos in Los Angeles joined the global anti-Marcos protest last Wednesday, Nov. 30, in response to the burial of the former dictator president at the Heroes’ Cemetery.

AJPress photo by Klarize Medenilla

hosted by the Philippines.

On his official Facebook account, Go posted a photo showing Duterte having a telephone conversation while sitting on a table and browsing some papers.

“Very engaging and animated phone conversation between Pres. Duterte and President-elect Trump,” Go

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MEDENILLA AJPress

Cemetery) on November 18, Filipinos around the world were outraged.

WHEN the Marcos family In the past year, Filipinos went forth and held a private around the world who were ceremony for the late President against Marcos organized proFerdinand Marcos in the Lib- tests and petitions urging Presiingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ dent Rodrigo Duterte to stop the

Duterte brushes off speculations of martial law declaration

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday, December 1, ruled out speculations that he might declare martial law amid the security threats in the country.

“Martial law for what? Killing people? Kapag galing sa akin, kalokohan iyan (If it comes from me, that would be stupid),” Duterte said in his speech during the ARMM Local Government Summit in Davao City.

Some critics expressed fear that the administration would

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burial, citing the late president’s implementation of 11year martial law period.

In that span of time, at least 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured and more than 3,200 were

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A DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

The Philippines placed on Terror…

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ened security level announcement when he presented before the public two suspects of the recent bombing attempt on Monday, November 28 near the United States Embassy in Manila.

Asked what the level alert meant, the PNP chief said terror alert level three means there is a strong possibility for a terror-

ist attack to happen within the country.

“They (public) should expect strong checkpoints, they should expect the Oplan Sita anytime and they should expect some raids being conducted by all security forces on suspected terrorist personalities and lairs na pwedeng pagtaguan ng mga teroristang iyan (that can hide those

terrorists),” Dela Rosa added.

On Monday morning, November 28, an IED was found by a street sweeper in a trash bin reportedly around 25 meters from the embassy’s gate. The explosive device was later safely detonated. Although it caused heavy traffic around the area, no one was reportedly hurt in the incident.

According to Dela Rosa, the IED found near the embassy was similar to the bomb used by the Maute Group during the Davao market blast in September.

The two individuals suspected of attempting to bomb the embassy have been identified as Rayson Kilala Sakdal and Jamir Kinar, and were arrested in Bulacan on Wednesday, November 30. The PNP chief said the suspects were part of the “Ansar Al-Khalifa,” an alliance of terror groups, which includes the Maute Group.

The arrested suspects confessed that the bombing attempt

ONE WITH THE TROOPS. President Rodrigo Duterte raises his clenched fist along with members of the Philippine Army’s 103rd Brigade in Lumbayanague, Lanao del Sur on Wednesday, Nov. 30. Duterte pushed through with the visit despite the blast that injured seven presidential guards and two others on Tuesday, Nov. 29.

Malacañang photo

House passes bill to award Fil-Am WWII…

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soldiers and Allied forces during signature from President Barack the Second World War. Obama—would honor the more The Filipino soldiers—of than 200,000 Filipino soldiers whom more than 18,000 are u PAGE A3 who fought alongside American still alive—join the ranks of the

Tuskegee Airmen and Hawaii’s 442nd Infantry Battalion with being bestowed with the honor.

Less than 7,000 surviving veterans are residing in the U.S. today, some estimates show.

“These loyal and courageous soldiers suffered, sacrificed, fought and gave their lives alongside their American counterparts throughout the war,” Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii) said on the Congress floor before the House voted. “We’ve waited far too long to recognize these heroes who deserve this honor.”

Gabbard, along with Rep. Judy Chu (D-California) and Mike Honda (D-California), pushed for the bill in the House, where it received 312 co-sponsors.

Rep. Joe Heck (R-Nevada) was the Republican lead in the House for the bill, noting Filipinos’ efforts to secure a win for the U.S. and the Allies.

“Filipino soldiers helped ensure Allied victory in the Pacific,” Heck said in a press conference in 2015 when the bill was introduced. “Bestowing this honor upon them is past due, but I am pleased to join in this bipartisan, bicameral effort to award these friends of the United States the Congressional Gold Medal.”

On July 13, the Senate unanimously voted to approve the bill, as previously reported by the Asian Journal.

“The day has finally arrived for this group of heroes to receive

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From the Front page

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 3-6, 2016

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LA Fil-Ams outraged by Marcos…

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killed, according to Amnesty International.

On Wednesday, November 30, Filipinos in cities all over the world participated in a global day of protest as a response to the burial, sending the message that the current administration went against the interests of Filipinos worldwide.

“Marcos is no hero! He killed Filipinos!” Arturo Garcia exclaimed through a megaphone, followed by repetitions from impassioned protesters. Garcia led the Los Angeles protest, which took place in front of the Philippine Consulate General’s office in Koreatown on Wednesday evening.

Other cities that participated in the global demonstration included San Francisco; New York City; Chicago; Washington, D.C.; Vancouver, BC; Sydney, Australia and Edinburgh, Scotland.

In LA, protesters wielded signs, calling Marcos a dictator and unworthy of the burial in the Heroes’ Cemetery which is typically reserved for former presidents, heroes of war and other Filipinos who have influenced the Philippine populace.

Owner of Park’s Finest BBQ Johneric Concordia joined in the protest to stand in solidarity with those that suffered through the martial law era.

“Many of the people who helped raise us and teach us about being Filipino in our community were directly tortured by Marcos and the administration during martial law, so the fact that now he’s being honored as a hero goes against everything that happened with the People Power Revolution and things that are happening today,” Concordia told the Asian Journal. “To this day we find ourselves in collective amnesia over what happened in our community.”

Duterte and Marcos supporters saw the late president as a prime candidate for the burial for his contributions as a soldier in World War II, but Concordia called that reasoning “ridiculous” because of the atrocities that occurred during his regime.

“We’ve been consistently in debt because of his practices and his administration that brutalized youth in the 1970s and farmers in the 1980s,” Concordia added. “It’s just kind of ridiculous that we’re still arguing this.”

Anne Redford, a Filipino-American nurse, held

AJPress photo by Klarize Medenilla

up a sign that read, “Marcos’ Greed For Power And Wealth is the ultimate reason for the Philippines’ dark history” protested in honor of the “victims” of martial law.

“I feel so sad for the victims, which is why I am protesting dictator Marcos’ burial,” Redford said.

“It’s not fair for the victims, so I want justice for them. It’s very insulting that they allow this dictator in the Heroes’ Cemetery, while thousands of Filipinos are still suffering from the [remnants of] martial law to this day.”

While the protest garnered support from passing pedestrians and cars driving past on Wilshire Blvd, the protesters garnered a few passersby criticizing and mocking the protest, with one Filipina yelling, “Get over it!” They ignored her comment.

Concordia, however, sees the opportunity to protest the burial as a way of sending a message to the community and to the world. He added that staying silent on detrimental issues that affects the community is dangerous as it enables more atrocities to continue.

“Doing the right thing matters, even if it doesn’t [directly] affect you,” Concordia said. “Growing up in the community, we’ve already seen it with our WWII veterans being denied justice, we’ve seen it with martial law victims and we’re even now seeing today with this new administration of the United States. If we let ignorance win, then we’re all suffering. We have the opportunity to challenge ignorance, challenge hate, and I consider that our rent on this earth.” n

Trump invites Duterte to visit White House…

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captioned his post.

Trump, who won the recent U.S. presidential election against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, will assume office this coming January.

For some analysts, Trump’s seemingly similar temperament with Duterte will help in renewing and boosting of the diplomatic ties between the Philippines and the United States.

The decades-long relationship between the Philippines and the United States has been put into question in the past few months, following Duterte’s constant tirades against the U.S., which have been seemingly sparked over the latter country’s interference in the Philippine government’s crackdown on illegal drugs.

Duterte, who has been known for his profane-laced speeches against the U.S. and current President Barack Obama, seemed to soften his stance after Trump’s presidential victory was announced last November.

“Ayaw kong makipag-away kasi nandyan na si Trump (I don’t want to quarrel anymore because Trump is now there),” Duterte previously said. n

A DAY OF RALLIES. It was Andres Bonifacio’s day, but thousands of rallyists gathered at the People Power monument at EDSA on Wednesday to denounce the burial of former president Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

The Philippines placed on Terror…

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was a diversion to ease up the military operations against the Maute Group in Lanao del Sur, according to Dela Rosa.

The Maute Group previously seized a part of the town of Butig in the Lanao del Sur province last week. Although the Philippine army announced on Wednesday that the extremists have withdrawn their forces from the town towards the mountains, the military operation continues.

“At saka gusto nilang ma-rec-

ognize ng ISIS na talagang they are pro-ISIS, they are aligned with ISIS kung nakapagpasabog sila ng bomba at nagkaroon ng malaking pinsala, malaking casualties (And they also wanted to be recognized

by ISIS by bombing and making a large number of casualties),” the PNP chief added.

Suspects also reportedly confessed that the explosive device was transported from Mindanao to Metro Manila a board a Toyota Revo. The vehicle was recovered by the police.

“Aaminin ko talagang nakalusot, that’s our fault. Sorry, nalusutan tayo (I admit it’s our fault. I’m sorry they passed through us),” Dela Rosa said.

The manhunt operation continues as three other suspects were still at large.

Alert 3 ‘no cause of alarm’ Despite the threats, Dela Rosa noted that the public shouldn’t be alarmed as the authorities are continuing to beef up security across the country.

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Duterte brushes off speculations of martial…

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declare martial law, following the extremist Maute group’s bomb attack in Davao City last September which prompted the president to declare the country under the state of lawlessness.

Another incident near the United States Embassy in Manila was recently attempted supposedly by the same group but was later foiled by the authorities.

The Maute also seized some parts of Butig town in Lanao del Sur over the weekend but the military was able to push the extremists to withdraw their forces early this week.

“Ngayon, sabi nila, Martial Law. Martial Law. Martial Law ako dito. Paano? Patayin ko lahat ‘yang Maute pati mga religious extremists? Then? Then? Bakit ‘yun bang nasa utak niya maipasa Photos courtesy of Christopher ‘Bong’ Go’s Facebook niya sa anak niya (Can a man pass what’s on his mind with his child)? account

What this guy would remember is ang tatay niya pinatay (his father was killed),” Duterte said.

Alleying the fears of public that he might declare martial law, Duterte suggested that he’d rather give “blanket authority” to local authorities than declare the policy. Duterte, however, threatened that he’ll order soldiers to “shoot officials” who will use their “authority” to order the military do illegal activities.

Under the Section 18, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution, a president has the power to declare the Philippines under martial law subject to the Congressional approval.

The 1987 Constitution says “in case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it, he may, for a period not exceeding sixty days, suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus or place the Philippines

or any part thereof under martial law. Within forty-eight hours from the proclamation of martial law or the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, the President shall submit a report in person or in writing to the Congress.”

The Philippines went under martial law before under late President Ferdinand Marcos when he signed the proclamation 1081 on September 21, 1972, to control the communist rebellion.

For some, however, this paved way to human rights abuses.

“Nag martial law tayo noon, gumaling ba ang buhay natin?

Hanggang ngayon, wala (We had martial law before, did our lives improve? Until now, there’s no improvement),” President Duterte said.

Duterte then stressed, “I do not allow oppression in this country and I will never do it.” n

A DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

From the Front page

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BOMB COURIER. Metro Manila police director Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde shows a computer-generated facial composite of the man who supposedly planted a bomb at the US Embassy on Monday, Nov. 28.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

The Philippines placed on Terror…

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“Ang ma-assure ko sa publiko (I can assure the public), the PNP and AFP are doing our very best to secure the safety of the country,” Dela Rosa said, adding the public should stay vigilant.

At the same time, Andanar said the daily lives of Filipinos will not be interrupted.

“We assure the public that there will be no disruption in their normal lives even if we have raised our security level

in the same vein that there was no change in the way they live, work, or conduct business now that the country is under state of national emergency on the account of lawless violence,” Andanar added. n

House passes bill to award Fil-Am WWII… PAGE A2 t

the recognition they deserve for their sacrifice and service to our nation during World War II. With Nevada being home to ‘The Mighty Five’ Filipino veterans – I am proud to see these brave individuals finally rewarded for their military service. With both House and Senate passage, I look forward to seeing this legislation swiftly signed into law by the President,” said Senator Dean Heller (R-Nev.) in a statement.

Heller teamed with Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) for bipartisan Senate passage of this legislation.

This historic moment for Filipino veterans comes over 70 years after they dedicated their service.

Celestino Almeda, a 99-yearold Filipino WWII veteran from Gaithersburg, MD, said the recognition is “long overdue” especially since the veterans were “treated unjustly, which was painful and humiliating” after serving in the war.

Following the war, Congress

had passed the Rescission Act of 1946, which stripped Filipino soldiers the benefits promised to them by President Roosevelt.

86-year-old Rudy Panaglima, who was 13 years old when he served with guerrilla forces in the Philippines as a courier and scout, said “it’s better late than never.”

“Leo Ansis, an 89-year-old New Philippine Scout, felt that his service has been forgotten, but [was] very excited to hear of the bill’s passage. Mrs. Lourdes Poblete, a member of the Philippine Commonwealth Army and a recognized guerrilla who served from 1942 to 1944, is also overjoyed to receive the honor while she is still alive. She is 92 years old,” Luisa Antonio, San Francisco Veterans Equity Center (SVEC) executive director, said.

Various Fil-Am organizations that have been fighting for recognition on behalf of the veterans — including The Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetRep) — applauded the news.

“Today is truly a great day, a significant seminal period in American history – second only to the liberation of the Philippines and surrender of the Japanese Imperial Forces on August 15, 1945,” said Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret), chairman of FilVetREP. “Now we can tell our veterans with pride in our hearts that this grateful nation has, at last, granted them recognition for the selfless sacrifice they endured in war, and restored their dignity and honor in service to their nation.”

The California State Board of Education recently approved curriculum changes of the state’s high schools to incorporate more information about Filipinos’ roles in the war in Grade 11 U.S. History lesson plans.

Earlier this year, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rolled out a new family-based immigration program for Filipino WWII veterans and their families called the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program. n

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California Earthquake Authority marks 20 years of operation

INAUGURATION. President Rogrigo Duterte and Huang Rulun, board chairman of Beijing’s Century Golden Resources Group, talk during the inauguration of the mega drug rehabilitation center donated by the businessman in Nueva Ecija. The rehabilitation center occupies a land area of 11 hectares and has a total construction space of 60,000 square meters with 172 building units, making it the first large scale drug rehabilitation center in the country.

Asian civil rights org opposes Health and Human Services secretary nominee LOS ANGELES — As a national civil rights organization, Asian Americans Advancing Justice opposes the nomination of Congressmember Tom Price (R-Ga.) as Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary.

As a member of Congress, Rep. Price has been one of the lead critics of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and has repeatedly attempted to repeal or gut the ACA. Among Rep. Price’s most dangerous proposals are limiting tax credits for the poor, privatizing Medicare, barring federal funding to Planned Parenthood, and converting Medicaid to block grants (effectively gutting its role as a safety net program). Since implementation in 2010, the ACA has given 20 million previously uninsured Americans access to critical health care services. Among the ACA’s success stories is the significant increase in health insurance coverage amongst Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). Repealing the ACA would likely double the uninsured rate to 19.4 percent and cost an estimated 24 million people their health coverage.

“The Asian American and Pa-

cific Islander community has seen the greatest decrease in our uninsured rate—by 59 percent— under the ACA, the largest of any racial group nationally,” said Doreena Wong, director of Advancing Justice-LA’s health access program. “And consistently, AAPIs have expressed significant support for the ACA, even across party lines — for example, a poll in Spring 2016 found that 76 percent of Asian American voters supported the ACA, including 60 percent of those identified as Republican. A repeal of the ACA means that hundreds of thousands of our community members stand to lose critically needed health coverage.”

Advancing Justice opposes Rep. Price also because of his track record of supporting such anti-immigrant policies as voting to dismantle the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, to punish “Sanctuary Cities,” to deny citizenship to children born in the U.S. with undocumented parents, to eliminate the visa lottery for immigrants, and against the DREAM Act. This record of hostility toward immigrants should disqualify Rep. Price from leading HHS

New US ambassador arrives in the Philippines Malacañang hopes for better diplomatic ties

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

THE Philippine government is hopeful to have a renewed diplomatic relationship with the United States, following the arrival of the new U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines in Manila earlier this week.

On Thursday evening, December 1, United States Ambassador-designate to Manila Sung Kim arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on a Korean Airways flight from Incheon.

Malacañang suggested that Kim’s Asian background could help in boosting the relationship between the Philippines and the United States, which has been put into question following Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-U.S. remarks over the past few months.

“We welcome the new ambassador to the Philippines.

Sana maging mas maganda ang pakikipagpalitan natin ng diplomasya with the US dahil Asian ang ating counterpart from the US (We hope we can have better diplomatic ties with the US because the new ambassador also has Asian roots),” Presidential Communications Office Assistant Secretary Ana Marie Banaag said on Friday, December 2.

Kim, who was born in South Korea, was nominated by U.S.

President Barack Obama as the United States’ next ambassador to the Philippines. Kim replaces Philip Goldberg, whose duty will end this year.

In his arrival speech, Kim expressed to the public his eagerness to start his “adventure” as the new envoy.

“I look forward to joining them to deepen the bond between the two peoples and, of course, I very much look forward to working with the Philippine government to strengthen this very important partnership between our two countries,” Kim remarked.

Also describing the PH-U.S. relationship as one of the “most enduring partnerships,” Kim said a “great deal of respect, affection, and admiration” between Americans and Filipinos has been evident with the Americans living in the Philippines, and at the same time, with Filipinos living in America.

Kim noted that there are currently about 4 million FilipinoAmericans in the U.S., while about 250,000 Americans are living and working in the Philippines.

“There are many important dimensions to the relationship between our two countries. But for me the most meaningful, the most fundamental is the deep bond and the extraordinary bond between the peoples in the two countries,” he added. n

which, through its Office of Refugee Resettlement, is responsible for the work of resettling and integrating refugees as well as the care of unaccompanied minors apprehended by immigration officials.

Price’s proposals and past positions harm the most vulnerable Americans, such as those who are poor, elderly, or immigrant. Advancing Justice opposes Rep. Tom Price as Health and Human Services Secretary and urges Congress not to confirm him. n

SACRAMENTO — The California Earthquake Authority (CEA), the country’s leading provider of residential earthquake insurance, celebrates its 20th anniversary this week.

California established CEA in 1996 to address a home-insurance market crisis. The 1994 Northridge earthquake caused huge and unexpected earthquake losses and rattled the insurance industry. In the months following the quake, insurers began refusing to write new California residential policies to avoid also having to offer earthquake insurance under the state’s “mandatory earthquake offer” law. Eventually, new home policy sales across almost 95 percent of the market were closed down.

The situation threatened the state’s housing market, so in response, the state created CEA—a not-for-profit, privately funded, publicly managed entity. Participating insurance companies would sell and service CEA earthquake policies, but CEA itself would bear the insurance risk in the event of covered claims.

CEA’s participating insurers began writing CEA policies on Dec. 1, 1996, and over the next year the market crisis dissipated and home insurance sales returned to normal.

“On the day our doors opened, 20 years ago, CEA offered a solution to the home insurance crisis that threatened to cripple the state’s housing market,” said CEA CEO Glenn Pomeroy. “And

during the last two decades, this not-for-profit enterprise has worked hard to make earthquake insurance as affordable, valuable and flexible as possible.”

CEA has accomplished much during its first 20 years. Through innovative, cost-saving financing techniques and application of the best available science, CEA has been able to lower its rates by a combined 55 percent. CEA has funded important scientific and engineering research, to help gain a deeper understanding of earthquake risk, and is now offering financial incentives to retrofit older houses.

In addition, CEA is a leading promoter of the annual Great California ShakeOut prepared-

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Philippine overseas voters registration process resumes in Los Angeles THE Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, as deputized by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), is resuming the continuing registration for Overseas Voters for the May 2019 Philippine elections for Senators and Party-List Representatives.

The registration process will begin on December 1, 2016 and will last until October 31, 2018.

Registration will be conducted at the premises of the Consulate General, 3435 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 550, Los Angeles, California 90010, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Registration will also be con-

ducted in various mobile sites during the Consulate General’s consular outreach activities in order to reach as many of our kababayans living in the southwestern United States as possible.

Filipino citizens residing abroad who are not yet registered as overseas voters, and intend to vote during the May 2019 Philippine elections, may file their applications for registration.

The requirements for registration are as follows: 1) Accomplished Registration Form (OVF #1); 2) Original and copy of your valid Philippine Passport; and 3) For dual citizens,

original and photocopy of your dual citizenship Identification Certificate and Order of Approval issued by the Philippine Embassy or Philippine Consulate General or Philippine Bureau of Immigration.

The exercise of continuing registration for Overseas Voting is being done pursuant to Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003,” as amended by Republic Act No. 10590.

For more details on the overseas voters’ registration process, please visit the Consulate’s website www.philippineconsulatela. org. n

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California unsure what to do with 100 million dead trees Sen. Feinstein urges USDA for federal aid

by Eric

Anthony LicAs AJPress

SENATOR Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) urged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Tuesday, November 29, to revisit her request for federal aid to help crews clear over 100 million dead trees posing hazards throughout California’s forests.

The state’s tree mortality rate has risen sharply over the past six years, according to estimates by the U.S. Forest Service based on aerial surveys.

An estimated 62 million have died this year alone.

Dried out, free standing timber throughout California threatens to collapse on nearby structures and may increase the risk of forest fires.

“This dramatically increased speed and scale of tree die-off in California calls for heightened urgency at the federal level,” wrote Feinstein in a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Thomas Vilsack on Tuesday. “The situation in California’s forests is dire.”

The USDA had paid $11 million in October to help fund 10 “fuel removal” efforts. Feinstein is requesting an additional $27 million to assist nine additional tree removal projects recommended by the Forest Service and California’s Tree Mortality Task Force.

So far, a combined $200 million in state and federal funds have been spent to clear California’s forested regions of dead and dying trees. Crews are already at work removing them from especially sensitive areas near power lines, roads, businesses and residential areas, according to sources for the Los Angeles Times.

State agencies are unsure about what to do with the wood once It has been cut down. It would normally be sold to lumber mills or delivered to eco-friendly power plants that burn it to generate renewable energy.

However, mills have not shown interest in purchasing dead wood from California, and the state may lack the funds to pay the significant transportation costs required to move the

lumber to green energy plants. In addition, those facilities’ powerpurchase agreements are set to expire soon.

“There’s not the infrastructure to take on this quantity of trees,” U.S. Forest Service spokesperson Stephanie Gomes told the LA Times on Wednesday, November 30.

Experts say the accelerated rate of tree mortality in California is due largely to five consecutive years of drought. Dry conditions made trees more susceptible to infestation by beetles burrow FOREVER A HERO. Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan delivers a speech as the city observed the 153rd birth anniversary of Andres into trees to lay eggs and other Bonifacio, who fought the Spaniards and was tagged the father of the Philippine Revolution. Bonifacio was born on November 30, 1863. organisms.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez Some regions of the state have recorded higher than average rainfall for this year. However, even if the drought were to end, trees would continue to die for another year or two, according to sources for the times.

“As we head into a sixth year of historic drought, this crisis is by cAmiLLE DioLA Philstar.com far from over,” wrote Feinstein in a letter informing Governor Jerry Brown of her appeal to the USDA MANILA, Philippines — US on Tuesday. n President-elect Donald Trump on Friday warned American companies of consequences if they try to outsource their operations to other countries. between the NDFP and GRP. Speaking in a factory of air-conEric Tandoc of Anakbayan ditioning contractor Carrier in InLong Beach discussed the sense dianapolis, Indiana, Trump said of desperation Filipinos had his government will not make it amid the wealth inequality and easy for companies to leave and economic circumstances that source workers in Mexico, India widened the divide between the and other countries. wealthy in the metropolitan ar“Companies are not going eas and the peasants residing in to leave the United States anyprovincial regions. more without consequences. It’s Tandoc laid out the four over- not going to happen. I’m telling President-elect Donald Trump, left, and Vice President-elect Mike Pence arrive at arching agenda points that the you right now. We’re losing so Indianapolis International Airport for visit to the Carrier factory, Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016, in Indianapolis, Ind. NDFP has for the eventual peace much,” Trump said. talks: respect for human rights, “We’re gonna have a lot of to 15 percent, which would take sourcing sector. socio-economic reforms, politi- phone calls to companies when us from the highest taxed nation BPOs in the Philippines have cal constitution reform and end they say they’re thinking about virtually in the world—this is ter- generated 1.2 million jobs. Last of hostilities and disposition of leaving this country, ‘cause rible for business—to one of the year, the sector earned P1.7 trilforces. they’re not leaving this country. lower taxed,” the incoming US lion in revenue, contributing alThe second point — the so- And the workers are not gonna leader said. most 10 percent of the country’s cio-economic reforms — is the leave their jobs,” he added.

Tax analysts in the US say, gross domestic product, a value focus of the two parties as they He said companies can negoti- however, that Trump’s tax plan at par with remittances from await confirmation of the next ate deals in different states, but would lead to government reve- overseas Filipinos. discussion.

“I’m worried about a receschoosing to go abroad “is going nue losses of $6.2 trillion, thereThe comprehensive frame- to be very, very difficult.” by hurting the economy. Others sion,” John Forbes, senior adwork includes a wide range of Trump said outsourcing com- argue that the the richest taxpay- viser at the American Chamber issues that stem from various panies will be taxed heavily across ers would see their incomes in- of Commerce in the Philippines, sectors including agriculture, the border, while those that crease significantly. told the STAR earlier this month. environmental protection, job choose to stay will benefit from a Socioeconomic Planning SecLocal BPO sector market, foreign relations and reduced corporate tax rate.

In the Philippines, where near- retary Ernesto Pernia, meanfinance.

“So one of the things we’re do- ly three fourths of BPO earnings while, said the country is ready Tandoc emphasized the im- ing to keep them is we’re going come from the US, economists for a possible protectionist portance of this particular to be lowering our business tax fear Trump’s White House term America under Trump due to its agenda point, explaining that from 35 percent, hopefully down will be a blow to the local out- foreign policy pivot to China. n successful talks on these issues would help solve human rights abuses, unemployment and poverty among other issues that PAGE A5 t cade of serving California, we are CEA policies are now more than plague the country.

“This is very different from ness drill, and its earthquake-in- inviting everyone to take another 76 percent of all residential how different peace talks are be- surance and preparedness mar- look at what CEA now has to of- earthquake insurance policies ing negotiated internationally,” keting campaigns have earned fer,” said Pomeroy. “Earthquake sold in California. With more risk is real, but so is the value of than $12 billion in claim-paying Tandoc added, citing the recent national recognition.

2016 has been a watershed earthquake insurance. Our new capacity, CEA could cover all peace talks in Colombia which did not necessarily discuss so- year for CEA. After rolling out products and tools put every its claims if the 1906 San Francio-economic reform or longi- many new policy choices and Californian in the driver’s seat to cisco, 1989 Loma Prieta or 1994 tudinal changes. “The way the deductible options, and deeper select the policy that meets their Northridge earthquake were to reoccur today.

Philippine revolutionary move- premium discounts for retro- own needs and budget.”

To learn more about CEA’s CEA is committed to getting ment, they don’t just see it as a fitted older houses, CEA is on peace talk for their forces, but track to more than triple its av- even more Californians finan- history, and to learn how to reit’s really peace talks to imple- erage annual growth rate of the cially protected against damag- duce your risk of earthquake ing earthquakes through educa- loss, visit www.EarthquakeAument changes that will affect the last 10 years.

“As we move into our third de- tion, mitigation and insurance. thority. n u PAGE A7

Trump warns companies about outsourcing abroad

CSULB hosts forum on PH armed struggle

by KLArizE

mEDEniLLA AJPress

ONE of President Rodrigo Duterte’s early achievements as president is his dedication to a definite peace agreement between the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).

Since 1969, the two sides have caused constant violence through five presidential regimes, which comprised of a series of 40 peace talks that never amounted to a successful agreement.

In August, Duterte moved forward with continuing the peace talks between the NDFP and the GRP. After the first round of peace talks ended in the last

week of August, the two sides agreed to a unilateral ceasefire and signed an agreement for a “single unified bilateral ceasefire” by October 26.

However, October 26 passed and no bilateral ceasefire was forged and was pushed back to early December.

The NDFP attributes it to the GRP’s lack of “real incentives to work for a more stable ceasefire agreement,” NDFP member Benito Tiamzon said in a statement.

That was the surrounding theme of a discussion forum on the decades-long conflict at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) on Tuesday, November 29 that focussed on the lasting socio-economic effects of a successful peace agreement

California Earthquake Authority…

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 3-6, 2016

A

Advisory: City announces Hollywood street closures for Rogue One: a Star Wars story premiere

HOLLYWOOD — The City of Los Angeles is preparing for the world premiere of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, the latest film in the long-running Star Wars series. In an effort to ensure public safety and mitigate traffic in the area, the City’s Bureau of Street Services has finalized street closures for the following areas.

The street closures will begin starting at 10:00 p.m. on Monday, December 5, and will continue until 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 13.

The Los Angeles Police DeSPORTS HEARING. Senator Manny Pacquiao, chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, confers with Senator Antonio Trillanes IV during partment and Department of a hearing looking into the alleged unliquidated funds received by the Philippine Olympics Committee (POC) from the Philippine Sports Transportation will deploy adCommission (PSC). The hearing also looked into the alleged unjust disqualification of candidates for the position of the POC president. ditional personnel to the area Senate photo by Romeo Bugante in and around the closure. City departments will monitor the closure throughout its duration to ensure safety and maintain accessibility.

PAGE A6 t Area stakeholders have been “Every president of the Philcountless promises to ensure population of the Philippines.” a bilateral agreement and fi- ippines has been servile to U.S. notified through a combination “It’s because of this situation nally bring an end to the civil interests ever since the Philip- of in-person meetings, direct of dire poverty and spiraling in unrest, Tandoc expressed the pine government after the span- outreach to local businesses and debt that people have taken up importance of acting on them. ish were kicked out. But the im- residences, and digital signage. arms and joined the revolution- Moreover, Duterte’s tendency portant thing still remains [from Hollywood Boulevard cloary movement,” Tandoc said. to backtrack on his statements Duterte] to be seen is putting sures Since Duterte hails from adds an element of uncertainty those words into action,” TanHollywood Boulevard between Mindanao — where much of to the issue.

Ivar Avenue and Vine Street, doc said. n the violence is taking place — and has build rapport with members of the NDFP from his 20 plus-year political career, critics have faith in successful peace agreements between the two parties.

Moreover, his commitment to a more independently driven economy and disdain for U.S. control is generally seen as a “positive.”

“A big part of why peace talks failed in the past is due to U.S. control over Philippine politics,” Hiyasmin Saturay of the International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines, Southern California Network told the Asian Journal. She cited the tight grip the Philippines’ colonizers — the U.S. and Spain — had on the Philippine politics and business and trade.

“There was no political will to address these issues. Their thinking revolves around just crushing the armed rebellion, but then on the other hand there was a point where the revolutionary forces are becoming stronger. But they can’t just keep attacking the military.

They realize that they want to try other ways to address the armed conflict.”

Although Duterte has made

CSULB hosts forum on PH armed…

and between Vine Street and Argyle Avenue, will be closed from 10:00 p.m. on Monday, December 5, until 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 13.

Hollywood Boulevard between Argyle Avenue and Gower Street will be closed to westbound traffic from 3:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, December 10.

Hollywood Boulevard between Cahuenga Boulevard and Ivar Avenue will be closed to eastbound traffic from 3:00 p.m.

to 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, December 10.

Vine Street closures Vine Street between Hollywood Boulevard and Yucca Street will be closed from 9:00 p.m. on Friday, December 9, until 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 11.

Vine Street between Sunset Boulevard and Yucca Street will be closed from 3:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, December 10. n

A DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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OpiniOn

Features

Wagging the dog?

NINE soldiers were wounded, but at least there were no fatalities when an improvised explosive device went off yesterday as an advance security convoy for President Duterte was driving through a road in Marawi City. Of the nine, seven are members of the Presidential Security Group, who were sent to Marawi for Duterte’s visit to the city today.

Security officials are said to be eyeing the Islamic State-inspired Maute group for the bombing.

President Duterte has refused to cancel his visit to Marawi today, but this does not make the attack any less troubling. As worrisome as the explosion is the speculation that the administration appears to be wagging the dog and laying the groundwork for the suspension of certain civil liberties, all in the name of fighting threats to public safety.

Because of the raging controversy over the burial of Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, yesterday’s bombing raised comparisons with the ambush staged by Juan Ponce Enrile on his own convoy when he was Marcos’ defense chief in 1972. The ambush was used as the immediate pretext for the declaration of martial law and the start of the dictatorship.

Today’s speculations were fueled by President Duterte’s reported plan to suspend the writ of ha-

beas corpus to deal with troublemakers. The discovery of an IED outside the US embassy the other day, which was safely detonated by the police, further stoked speculative scenarios.

The Abu Sayyaf and armed militants in Mindanao normally set off bombs instead of leaving the explosives in areas where these can be easily found. Communist rebels do not stage violent attacks in crowded areas where the likelihood of civilian casualties is high. Besides, the communist leadership is deep in talks with the government for peace. So who left that IED in a trash bin outside the embassy? The Mautes must still be preoccupied with a military offensive in the Lanao del Sur town of Butig.

With his lingering immense popularity plus his peace initiatives, President Duterte does not need special powers to quell rebellions. If he wants to there’s no need to lay the groundwork by staging suspend certain civil liberties to exterminate the violent scenarios. The administration has denied Abu Sayyaf or pound the group into surrender, speculations that efforts are afoot to pave the way

Guest Editorial

Philstar.com photo

for the declaration of martial law. With recent developments, more effort is needed to put such concerns to rest. (Philstar.com)

Sal Malaki’s self-confident voice rise to world’s center stages

“NO one can tell you what you really hear when you dream music. The impression can seem more vivid than music, as if coming from somewhere inside it. But the stuff of dreams is more rarefied than the stuff of music. The vibrations are finer, more like feeling than sound, more like the inhalation of a poet before she speaks a line than the spoken line itself. Just as dream light is soaked up in the light of day...” —W.A. Mathieu, The Listening Book: Discovering Your Own Music, 1991.

Los Angeles. London. Paris. Lucerne. New York. Chicago. Washington, DC. St. Louis. Switzerland. Germany. Austria. France. Singapore.

Italy. Spain. Philippines. Leyte. Bacolod. More than 118 productions showcasing Sal Malaki as tenor in LA Opera. More than 150 productions with LA Master Chorale.

Placido Domingo, General Director of LA Opera Company. Grant Gershon, Artistic Director of LA Master Chorale. Zubin Mehta, Essa Pekka Salonen and Gustavo Dudamel of LA Philharmonic. Anna Etsuko Tsuri. Ryan Cayabyab. Dr. Charito Pizarro of University of Heidelberg. Sir Simon Rattle. Felix Slatkin. Dr. Beaunoni Espina. Rolando Tinio. Jaacov Bergman. These are some of the music personalities he has worked with.

Noli Me Tangere. Il Postino. The Gospel According to the Other Mary. The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny. La Traviata. Madama Butterfly. La Boheme. Fantastic Mr. Fox. La Rondine. The Messiah. Hymnus Amoris. L’Extase. La Loba Negra.

Lt. Cable. Spoliarium. Mga Sining Awit. South Pacific are some of the opera productions he has starred in, where every word was sung with heartfelt emotions and warm vocal tones. No lyrics are lost when Sal Malaki sings. His voice resonates to center stages around the world, beyond his birth-

place, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte.

Rhizomes Years ago, I watched Sal perform in the UP Madrigal Singers Concert at the Ford Amphitheater for their 50th year anniversary, produced by Annie Nepomuceno. His performance Prosy AbArquezis still seared in my memory. He DelAcruz, J.D. looked up, as if summoning the angels from above, and then, with a commanding tone, he sang the opening chords of “Nessun Dorma” from the opera Turandot by Puccini.

With hand gestures from his heart, then, with outstretched hands, his singing moved me to tears, and it felt like I was much closer to the Higher Being, and in gratitude and awe, I appreciated his performance. His voice reached a summit.

When Sal Malaki is onstage, his self-confidence strikes you and does not leave you.

Sal Malaki’s voice was nurtured by family and a village’s church choir His full name is Salmy Neo Dadap Malaki. Malaki in Tagalog means big, quite fitting for a voice so huge.

He is one of seven siblings, born to Lumy Amper Dadap and Samuel Donayre Malaki. His father was a Math teacher and his mother was an English and Music teacher.

His childhood mainstays were swimming and fishing at the lapjahan, the groin along the coast, while in some areas were golden and creamy sand beaches. With smiles, he recalls bountiful bugaong (white flat fish or terapon) caught at sea. Growing up with everyday views of verdant mountains and inviting waterfalls, one can easily dream big without constraints. At the top of the city are religious

shrines where the Virgin Mary statue stands the tallest over the rooflines and is believed to watch over the residents.

At 6 and 7 years old, he became part of Hinunangan (Southern Leyte) Church’s children’s choir.

His aunt, Feri Dadap, was the music director. Saturday afternoons were spent cleaning the church to get ready for Sundays, when he and his cousins did worship music.

“I never thought that would be my foundation of being a classical singer in Los Angeles,” he shared with a grateful tone.

In 3rd year high school, Hilltop Concert Chorale recruited him. Noni Espina of Silliman University in Dumaguete wrote an opera called “The Legend of the Bakunawa.” Damiana Eugenio, known folklorist, described Bakunawa as the moon eating dragon of Philippine mythology, while the Aswang Project wrote “that [it is about] a monstrous dragon [which] attempted to swallow the moon.”

Ten young flutists were recruited to play the flauta, while others were asked to play kolitong, “a bamboo polychordal tube zither with six strings that run parallel to its tube body,” Wikipedia described.

“The flute had indigenous sounds, not based on do re mi, but pentatonic, and I had to find the sounds that the playwright Espina wanted to hear. We were three actors and I became the soloist,” Sal said, “conducted by Mrs. Norma Palermo Espina.”

Sal relates that at first, no one could bring out the requisite sounds, “Suwajan na ho,” (I will try), he said. When he covered the six holes properly with his fingers and blew across the “embouchure” of the bamboo flute located closest to the

node, vibrant sounds of the flute were heard.

“I was discovered,” he said. Opera practice took hours after school till 10 pm. Days that he used for swimming, fishing and to help his father were now for music, “I not only played the flute, I also sang solo as the tenor.”

To help with his school expenses, he worked as a church janitor in his 3rd and 4th year high school. He graduated as the College of Maasin’s high school valedictorian. He was good in math and physics and took the UP’s entrance exam. He was assigned to UP Tacloban, where he spent two years taking general courses.

He was then diverted to take up accounting so he can join his uncle who worked at Price Waterhouse. He took a semester of accounting courses at the University of the East, but his interest could not be sustained. Music was calling him.

While in college, he remained active in a church choir at Ellinwood-Malate Church. He was dedicated and participated regularly in Sunday’s worship music. Pastor Cirilo Rigos noticed his commitment to music and gave him scholarship to train under Rolly Ramas, a voice teacher and a soprano, Jenny Lumawag.

He then auditioned for the UP College of Music.

He taught at the extension program in UP College of Music, while finishing his Bachelor’s. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree with two majors: voice and a teacher’s diploma in flute.

He auditioned with Andrea Veneracion of the UP Madrigal Singers. He toured with the Madrigal in 1979 to Seoul, Korea to the 6th Asian Composers League and was invited to sing and to play “Salidunmay” on the bamboo flute. He toured Europe for five months, including Korea

u PAGE A9

Legislation resulting from congressional hearings AT my favorite watering hole in Daly Street City, California, the hottest topic has been Talk the series of Senate and House committee hearings, particularly those on the extrajudicial killings under the GreG b. MAcAbentA administration of President Rodrigo Duterte and the alleged involvement of Senator and former Justice Secretary Leila de Lima with drug lords, as well as with her driver.

“Can somebody please explain the objective of these congressional hearings?” asked Pete, to kick off the discussion.

“The hearings are in aid of legislation,” replied Johnny. “To help Congress come up with bills to fill possible gaps in the judicial system or to streamline the governmental processes.”

“Or to unearth anomalies in government or instances of graft and corruption,” added Harry, as he nurses his beer at a table.

“If the anomalies or the corrupt practices are dug up, what happens?” Pete asked. “Does the Senate or the House of Representatives have the authority to file charges or indict” “No, no, that’s the job of the Ombudsman and the Sandiganbayan,” Johnny knowingly explained. “The job of Congress is to legislate.”

“In that case,” asked Pete, “what kind of bill does the House of Representa-

tives expect to file following its inquiry into De Lima’s amorous relationship with her driver?”

At this, Gerry chimed in from behind the bar.

“Maybe they’ll file a bill making it illegal for public officials to have extra-marital affairs.”

“That would never pass either the Senate or the House,” said Johnny.

“Too many guilty parties.”

“And Duterte would veto it,” added Harry. “Too many extramarital affairs.”

“Maybe the law should only apply to women public officials or lady senators,” continued Gerry, without losing a beat.

“Para kang si Chief Public Attorney Persida Acosta,” said Johnny. “She wants the law on adultery to be stricter on women.”

Gerry beamed: “And the law should be strictest of all on lady senators and their drivers. I even have a title for the bill. The Anti-Screw Driver Law.” Pete realized that the discussion has become ridiculous. But he is dead serious and pursues the topic.

“Aside from providing sexual excitement for lecherous members of Congress, what’s the point in raking up De Lima’s extra-marital affair with her driver if no sensible bill can be filed?”

Pete asked.

“To destroy her reputation,” said

Johnny, an old hand in Philippine politics. “Whatever happens, wasak na ang reputasyon ni De Lima. Of course, in the Philippines, lumilipas din ang hiya.

The shame will wear off.”

Harry picked it up: “Pero may basis daw naman ang investigation kay De Lima. I think it has to do with the driver’s role as go-between for De Lima and the drug lords, in exchange for protection,” “Dayan denies it,” said Pete. “In fact, he denies knowing the drug lords in the New Bilibid Prison.”

“But the drug lords all pointed to Dayan as the bagman,” said Harry.

“Ang problema, their testimonies were not consistent,” said Pete. “Each one denied knowing the others and each one denied being the principal while pointing to the others. They only agreed on one thing – Dayan.”

“Maybe that’s all they remembered of the script,” quipped Gerry.

“What script?” asked Pete.

“Di ba obvious? Scripted ang mga testimony ng mga sinasabing drug lords,” explained Gerry. ”Ikaw naman ang pangakuan ng immunity. Of course, you will be happy to follow a script.”

“But the testimonies have not been consistent,” said Pete. “According to one congressman, everyone swears to be telling the truth while the others are lying…and that includes Dayan.”

“And a congresswoman also admitted that it is not up to the committee to determine who is telling the truth,”

said Johnny. “Only a court of law can do that.”

“In that case, what kind of legislation can result from the investigation?” asked Pete.

Gerry had a suggestion: “They should file a bill requiring scripted testimonies to be rehearsed so that they do not contradict each other.”

“I think I like that,” said Harry with tongue-in-cheek. “Kasi, the hearings are televised, kaya dapat may rehearsals.”

“In fact, the bill should make it mandatory for the members of Congress to wear make-up before they go before the cameras, para photogenic” added Gerry. “They should also be required to fix their peluka.”

“Wait,” said Harry. “What about Kerwin Espinosa, the self-confessed drug dealer? He has admitted giving millions to De Lima through Dayan. He even has a picture with De Lima in Baguio.”

“Duterte also has a picture with alleged drug lord Peter Lim,” said Pete.

“Does that make Duterte a drug coddler?”

“Espinosa says he contributed to De Lima’s senatorial campaign,” said Harry.

“Receiving political contributions from crime lords and bigtime scam artists isn’t new – ask the pork barrel queen, Janet Napoles. Every politician does that. But they all deny knowing that they’re dealing with crime lords,” said Pete.

“Besides, that’s difficult to prove in

court. No receipts.”

“Ah, I know what bill should be filed,” Gerry cut in. “It should be made mandatory for crime lords to issue an official receipt for their contributions – or keep a ledger, just like Napoles.”

“You should have been a congressman, Gerry,” said Harry.

Gerry, who is the bartender, shot back: “Wellll…I’m a member of the bar.”

“What about the Senate hearings on extra-judicial killings?” Pete asked.

“What legislation do they expect to file as a result of that?”

“Senator Dick Gordon has already concluded that part of the Senate hearing,” said Johnny. “According to his findings, there is no evidence of extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration – at least, nothing that can be traced to Duterte.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Harry said with unveiled sarcasm. “After all, Duterte only promised to kill several thousand drug lords and pushers and offered a reward to the police for every killing.”

“Gordon’s committee reminds me of the three monkeys,” added Gerry. “Hear no evil. See no evil. Speak no evil.”

“What about the killing of Mayor Espinosa inside the jail cell?” asked Pete.

“That was not extrajudicial,” says Gerry. “Espinosa was in police custody – therefore, it was judicial.”

“According to the police, they were serving a search warrant on Espinosa

u PAGE A9

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OpiniOn & Features

Sal Malaki’s self-confident voice…

PAGE A8 t

and Taiwan in 1981 and in 1987, Europe for seven months. The tour became his outside classroom, broadening his perspective while immersing in cultures. It taught him that while Southern Leyte became the birthplace of his musicality, he has the potential of going beyond his country’s borders and to take his talent globally.

By 1992, he performed in La Boheme, an opera at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, under the direction of Rolando Tinio and conducted by Jaacov Bergman. He described the context of that period. Three weeks before curtain, the Tagalog translations were made available. It spoke of the young lives of bohemian students in Paris but the setting of the opera is in the university belt in Manila. Pinatubo has just erupted. Everything had to be integrated into a Pilipino setting. And, he sang in Italian. His performance was warmly received and led to folks suggesting he goes abroad for exposure.

How do we fully develop this talent, the inquiry was made?

He got a multiple entry visa a year after he got married. He immigrated with his wife, Lynn Alcaraz Malaki who was then a bank officer. Sal at that time was teaching at St. Scholastica’s, UP and at the Ryan Cayabyab Music School. Their first stop was Chicago, Detroit, NY to Toronto and last stop was Los Angeles. It was 1992 recession.

Then, the Northridge earthquake happened on January 17, 1994, the day Sal was scheduled to audition for LA Master Chorale. They ended up staying in the Bay Area.

On Jan. 24, 1994, at the invitation of Henry and Monica Chen, they stayed with them. He took real estate and got sponsored for his visa.

He auditioned with Paul Salamunovich, Music Director of LA Master Chorale and sang “Che Gelida manina” from the opera La Boheme by Puccini. Sal recalls Topper Smith (Chorus Administrator of LA Opera Company) saying, “Oh my

Sal Malaki

gosh, I haven’t heard that song sang that good in a long time.” Sal elicited “some applause from some singers who were lined up outside the audition room waiting for their turn to sing.”

Two weeks after the audition, he was tested again to sing in Latin, French, German and Italian as well as sight reading, aka solfeggio and vocal strength. He also sang “Still Wie Die Nacht” by Carl Bohm and had to sing it as if delivering poetry, creating images using words with flowing and beautiful lyricism. The LA Master Chorale had 75 paid slots and added him in the paid roster, making it 76 paid positions.

He credits the UP Madrigal Singers for his training, exposures to diverse languages, exposures to different cultures but also his mother and his aunt.

He also credits UP College of Music for his rigorous academic training in sight reading as well as knowledge of being able to read and to write three European languages.

Every two years, he auditions with LA Opera and LA Master Chorale to assure these chorale groups that his attitude remains professional and his vocal instrument is up to par.

u PAGE A10

Legislation resulting from…

PAGE A8 t

when he attempted to engage them in a gunfight,” said Johnny, brimming with sarcasm.

“Serving a warrant on someone already in custody – and at 4 o’clock in the morning???!!!” Pete asked incredulously.

“Senator Ping Lacson says it was premeditated murder. Salvaging,” said Johnny. “Lacson should know. He’s an expert in salvaging.”

“Whether or not it’s salvaging, the courts will have to decide that,” said Harry.

“Not the Senate committee?” Pete clarified. “So what bill will be filed as a result of the investigation - in aid of legislation?”

Once more, Gerry had a mischievous suggestion.

“They should file a bill making it illegal to serve a search warrant at four o’clock in the morning.”

The conversation had already spun out of control and has become a joking session.

“Kung sabagay,” said Pete, resignedly. “I get the impression that the congressional hearings are all a big joke. A useless exercise.”

Harry agreed. “It’s been seven years since the Ampatuan massacre, three years since typhoon Yolanda and questions about missing calamity funds, almost two years since the Mamasapano

slaughter of 44 Special Action Force troopers, and over two years since Senator Grace Poe led the inquiry into the MRT anomalies. Ano na ang nangyari?”

“They’re still asking about justice for the media people killed in that massacre and for the Fallen 44,” said Johnny. “The Yolanda funds are still unaccounted for. And we still have the traffic problem in Metro Manila. Pero lahat iyan nagkaroon ng congressional hearings.”

“In other words, the congressional hearings were a useless exercise,” said Pete.

“Not necessarily useless,” Johnny corrected Pete. “The media mileage that Senators and Congressmen are gaining from the investigation is worth millions. And they’re getting that for free.”

“But it’s at the expense of the Filipino people,” protested Pete.

“Not necessarily again,” Johnny continued.

“The public is getting its money’s worth in entertainment, drama, romance, sex, suspense and comedy.”

“And you’re saying that the public should be satisfied with that?” asked Pete.

“Why not? Mababaw ang kaligayahan ng Pinoy,” was Johnny’s quick response. n

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 3-6, 2016

A

A10 DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Dateline PhiliPPines

Duterte gives pardon to 4 rebels convicted of murder, kidnapping by nestor

corrALes Inquirer.net

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte granted pardon to four communist rebels convicted of murder and kidnapping, the government’s chief peace negotiator said on Friday, December 2.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said Martin Villanueva, Bonifacio Suyon, Dindo Absalon and Rico Bodina would be released any time on Friday or Monday.

He said the release of the four pardoned detainees was part of the continuing commitment of Duterte to free communist prisoners.

“These rebels have long been recommended for pardon but the previous government did not sign the draft order to release them,” Bello said in a statement.

The peace official said the rebels, who are all farmers, had served at least 18 and up to 26 years in prison.

“We are giving them the justice they deserve regardless of their guilt or innocence,” Bello said. “They deserve to be freed.”

Villanueva and Suyom, he said, had been convicted of kidnap-

President Rodrigo Duterte

ping while Absalon and Bodino served time for murder.

He said former President Benigno Aquino III did not act on the recommendation of the Presidential Committee on Bail Recognizance and Parole (PCBREP) over the release of the said rebels.

Bello said three more suspected communist rebels were set to be released pending legal requirements from the courts.

“They cannot avail themselves of a presidential pardon or executive clemency while their appeals are pending and awaiting

Inquirer.net photo

final entry of judgment,” he said.

He also said 200 detained rebels had been submitted for review and approval by appropriOUTSTANDING PHOTO. Children wait outside the Gasangan World Mission Community in Baseco, a sprawling community of informal settlers ate government agencies. in Tondo, Manila, to get their share of free meals. This photo won the Most Outstanding Photograph in the 2016 Save the Children Media Awards in Quezon City.

Inquirer.net photo by Raffy Lerma “But we have recommended the immediate release of 21 sickly detainees, three other elderly suspected rebels and one woman detainee,” said Bello, a former human rights lawyer. reporters at the sidelines of a by the House Committee on Jusby Anthony VArgAs According to Bello, there are ManilaTimes.net news briefing in Camp Crame tice that has been investigating 434 National Democratic Front where he had presented two sus- the illegal drug trade inside the (NDF) members in various deRONNIE Dayan, the driver- pects in a foiled bombing near New Bilibid Prisons that allegtention centers in the country at lover and alleged bagman of Sen. the US Embassy in Manila last edly benefited de Lima. present. n Leila de Lima when she was the Monday.

Dayan appeared before the secretary of the Department of Dayan was arrested by the po- committee last November 24 and Justice (DOJ) during the admin- lice last November 22 in a village admitted that he had been receivistration of then-President Be- in San Juan town in La Union ing drug money for de Lima. nigno Aquino 3rd is now back in province.

After his House appearance, Camp Crame.

A P1-million reward was ear- he was turned over to the cusDirector General Ronald dela lier offered by the Volunteers tody of the PNP chief and immeRosa, Philippine National Po- Against Crime and Corruption diately brought to a safehouse in lice (PNP) chief on Thursday (VACC) for any information that Pangasinan province. confirmed that Dayan has been would lead to the arrest of DayDayan is set to appear before brought back to the camp, the an, who also confirmed De Li- the Senate justice committee police national headquarters in ma’s earlier admission that they on December 5 where he is exQuezon City. had a seven-year affair from the pected to face drug lord Kerwin “Gusto niya magpa-secure time she was a private law prac- Espinosa, one of those who almuna rito … andito siya sa loob titioner until she became Justice legedly gave at least P2.8 million ng kampo [He said he wants to secretary. to Dayan as campaign money for be secured here.. he is here inHe was ordered arrested after the senatorial bid of the former side the camp],” Dela Rosa told he snubbed a summons issued Justice secretary. n

De Lima’s ex-driver back in Camp Crame

Hike in excise tax cuts number of Pinoy smokers

by Prinz

P. MAgtuLis Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Around eight million Filipinos have stopped smoking as cigarette supply has gone down by more than a quarter as a result of a landmark law in 2012 raising excise taxes on cigarettes.

The smoking prevalence rate – the ratio of smokers vis-à-vis population – dropped to 23 percent last year from 31 percent four years ago or before Republic Act 10351 was enacted, government data showed.

With an estimated 100 million Filipinos, the latest prevalent rate translated to eight million people who have quit smoking, said Antonio Miguel Dans, president of the Philippine Society of General Internal Medicine.

“We have gone a long way, but more needs to be done,” Dans said at a forum in Pasig City on Friday, December 2.

The smoking prevalence rate – the ratio of smokers vis-à-vis population – dropped to 23 percent last year from 31 percent four years ago or before Republic Act 10351 was enacted, government data showed.

“We estimate around two million more to stop once the unilateral bracket takes effect next year,” he said in a separate interview.

From 2012 to 2015, the volume of tobacco supply in the

market dropped by an average of 25.9 percent. The biggest drop was at 19.4 percent in 2014 from the previous year’s figure. Supply from 2012 to 2013 dropped 15.5 percent.

u PAGE A11

Yasay: Philippines-China talks based on tribunal’s decision may not happen in our lifetime

by PAtriciA Lourdes Philstar.com

VirAy

MANILA, Philippines — Bilateral talks based on the decision of an arbitral tribunal on the Philippines’ case against China may not happen, the country’s top diplomat said.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. said that the Philippine government is hoping that President Rodrigo Duterte will bring up the issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping but “there is also a possibility that perhaps it may not happen in our lifetime.”

“But what is important is that the conflict in the South China Sea is not the sum total of our relationship with China. There are other aspects of our relationship

Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr.

that must be pushed,” Yasay said in an interview with CNN Philippines’ “The Source” earlier this week.

The Philippines’ top diplomat noted that areas of trade, investment, commerce, infrastructure development, people-to-people contact and cultural exchange

should also be improved between the two countries.

Yasay said that the maritime dispute over the South China Sea is only a small of the relationship between the Philippines and China.

“That one will have to be put

u PAGE A11

Execution by hanging, firing squad included in proposed death penalty law

by PAtriciA Lourdes

VirAy

injection to be administered is sufficient to cause the instantaneous death of the convict,” the MANILA, Philippines — Three proposed measure read.

The proposed measure also methods may be used in executing the proposed Death Penalty requires all personnel involved in Law — hanging, firing squad or the execution of capital punishment to be trained prior to the lethal injection.

House Bill 1 (HB 1) which pro- performance of the task.

Meanwhile, the International poses such methods in executing the death penalty seeks to Commission of Jurists (ICJ) apamend Article 81 of the Revised pealed to the House of Representatives to immediately cease efPenal Code.

Last Tuesday, the House sub- forts to restore the death penalty committee on judicial reforms in the Philippines.

“Filipino lawmakers seem inendorsed a bill seeking to reimpose the death penalty for hei- tent on embracing the barbaric nous crimes including drug vio- practice of executions purely as a political measure, withlations.

Six lawmakers voted for HB 1 out any understanding or even while five wanted to limit capi- proper discussion of the death tal punishment to drug-related penalty’s impact or what their actions would mean to the incrimes, arson and carjacking.

“The death sentence shall be ternational obligations of the executed under the authority of Philippines,” ICJ Senior Interthe Director of Corrections... who national Legal Adviser Emershall take steps to ensure that the lynne Gil said.

Gil stressed that the reimposihanging, firing squad or lethal Philstar.com

tion of the death penalty would usher the country into a “dark period where respect for the right to life is comprehensively degraded.”

The ICJ executive noted that thousands of alleged cases of extrajudicial killings have already been reported in the country.

The organization stressed that the death penalty is a violation of the right to life and freedom from cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment.

“The UN General Assembly has repeatedly adopted resolutions by overwhelming majorities, calling on all retentionist States to impose a moratorium with a view to abolition,” the ICJ said.

In 2006, the imposition of the death penalty was suspended with the enactment of Republic Act 9346 or “An Act Prohibiting the Imposition of Death Penalty in the Philippines” signed by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. n

Sal Malaki’s self-confident voice…

PAGE A9 t

To perform in world-class stages is a feat in itself. To perform before thousands is another. But to be written up with accolades by a prestigious newspaper like Washington Post is the ultimate validation.

The Washington Post raved about “Noli Me Tangere,” an opera Sal Malaki starred in: “Playing the hero Crisostomo Ibarra, Sal Malaki and his golden tenor anchored the opera, and his expressive singing sent it soaring. As his faithful betrothed, Maria Clara, soprano Brittany Palmer performed with vocal subtlety and fragile stage presence befitting a tragic heroine.”

He nurtured a robust dream from the Philippines, which took him to Los Angeles to Europe, Southeast Asia, and come December 2016, back to the Philippines. He will hold a series of concerts: Dec. 14 and 15 with Children’s Choir in Tagbilaran, Bohol; Dec. 17 in Cebu with Mandaue Children’s Choir, conducted by Dennis Sugarol; Dec. 21 to support a dormitory project’s fundraising in UCCP, Maasin City in Leyte and Dec. 27 to support the fundraising for a local community hospital in Bacolod and to honor Nolin Cabahug, a tenor who

starred in Traviata.

My dream, he said in Tagalog, “Hanggang nandito pa ang aking hiyas at talento, though travel is very taxing physically and mentally, lalo na sa atin, basta share ng share.” [While I still have my jewels and talents, though travel can be very taxing physically and mentally, especially in the Philippines, just want to share and share.]

Sal Malaki’s prowess belongs to the big league singers, the likes of Andrea Bocelli and Placido Domingo, and I pray that one day, a CD bearing his name, goes viral. *** 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 3-6, 2016

A11

New batch of SAF troopers deployed in Bilibid reshuffle

by Julliane love

De Jesus

Inquirer.net

A FRESH batch of elite Special Action Force (SAF) commandos has replaced at least 300 SAF troopers manning the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP), a move to avoid familiarity between the inmates and the security forces inside the state penitentiary.

A total of 410 SAF commandos from different battalions in the country were turned over to the NBP in a ceremony led by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa on Friday, Dec. 3.

“This is a system where we HIV-AIDS POLICY BILL. As part of the World AIDS Day on December 1, Akbayan Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday underwent a voluntary can avoid the undue familiarity HIV testing at the Senate. She said the test aimed to lift the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS and show the public that there is nothing to between the inmates and SAF fear, or to be ashamed of, in accessing these crucial preventive practices. Hontiveros early this year filed Senate Bill No. 376 or the Philippine HIV-AIDS Policy ACT to update the government’s response framework. Her bill seeks seeks a comprehensive, inclusive and troopers,” Dela Rosa said in an localized response towards HIV-AIDS. If passed, it will repeal Republic Act 8504 or the Philippine HIV AIDS Prevention and Control Act interview after the program.

Senate photo by Joseph Vidal of 1998.

“Kahit sabihing highly-disciplined ang mga batang ito, kahit pitpitin mo mga bayag nito, hindi ito tatanggap ng bribe but human as they are, may chances PAGE A10 t we also recognize that there is no Filipino fishermen have been na bibigay ‘yan. Masisilaw ‘yan in the back burner although implementing reinforcement arm allowed to access to the disputed kung tatagal ‘yan,” Dela Rosa there are initiatives on the basis with respect to the arbitral tribu- Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal said. of what has been agreed,” Yasay nal’s decision except to insist and in the South China Sea or West said when asked about bilateral to use force,” Yasay said.

Philippine Sea after Duterte’s talks between Manila and BeiYasay stressed that the Philip- state visit to China. jing. pines cannot go to war against The Chinese Foreign Ministry The Foreign Affairs secretary China. confirmed that Beijing has made revealed that Duterte brought up “Even the 1982 [United Na- “proper arrangement” regarding the issue to Xi during his state tions Convention on the Law of the disputed shoal after Duterte visit to China but the latter re- the Sea] provides for the means expressed concern about the fused to resolve the issue based for which the enforcement will be matter. on the arbitral tribunal’s deci- made and that is through bilateral Duterte has proposed to desion. negotiations, bilateral agreement clare Panatag shoal a marine “So we decided to put this in with the parties involved, by the sanctuary. This would ban fishthe backburner and without com- counter-claimants involved,” the ing all fishing activities inside the promising and eroding our rights Foreign Affairs chief said. area but not around it. n

Yasay: Philippines-China talks based on…

Hike in excise tax cuts number of Pinoy…

PAGE A10 t

Supply last year was 9.1 percent higher than the previous year, however.

“This is due to the industry’s usual practice of front loading in anticipation of the 2016 increase in rates,” said Johanna Hortine of the DOF’s fiscal policy and planning group.

Another reason for the drop in the number of smokers was the “implementation of the Graphic Health Warnings Law and the provision of RA 8424 requiring manufacturers to affix excise tax stamps on tobacco products,” Hortine said.

Under RA 10351, excise levies for tobacco and alcohol have been raised. The law also re-

quires reducing to just one the tax bracket for cigarette products by 2017 from the current four.

Having more brackets means taxes differ depending on the type of tobacco used for producing cigarettes. Starting next year, rates would be increased four percent every year.

Dans said there is still much work to do as even as the country has “one of the lowest prices of tobacco in the world.”

The DOF is including a new adjustment in sin taxes under its comprehensive tax reform program, but it wants the current law to fully take effect by 2017.

“The sin tax reform law helped us reach a record-high in revenue collections last year,” Hor-

tine said.

The law has also reduced the supply of alcohol products, although its impact on drinking prevalence has yet to be established.

According to DOF data, volume of fermented liquors dropped 11.2 percent in 2013. The decrease slowed down to 0.98 percent and 1.4 percent in 2014 and 2015, respectively.

For distilled spirits, declines of 12.1 percent in 2014 and 4.2 percent last year were recorded, data showed.

“The legislators were really the ones who made this happen.

They were able to save more lives by proper legislation,” Dans said. n

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A new set of Special Action Force (SAF) Provisional Battalion composed of 410 personnel replaced at least 300 SAF troopers guarding the national penitentiary on Friday, Dec. 2.

Photo courtesy OF PNP PIO.

(Even if you say they are highly-disciplined or if they get tortured, they will not accept bribes, human as they are, there’s a chance they might give in. They may fall into that trap.)

Despite the deployment of highly-trained commandos in Bilibid since July, Dela Rosa admitted that it would be difficult to totally eradicate the illegal drug problem inside the prison.

“Hindi pa natin masiguro na

zero. Mawala man ang drugs pero meron pa rin (We cannot ascertain it’s completely gone.

There was probably a decline, but it’s not completely gone),” he said.

Asked how long the new set of SAF men will secure Bilibid, where high-profile inmates are detained, Dela Rosa said the Department of Justice will determine the length of their stay in the penitentiary. n

A12 DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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SHOWBIZ&STYLE

B

Journal Paul Anka: Passion is at the heart of artist’s longevity

By Eric

Back at the Saban Theatre on Dec. 10 & 11

Anthony LicAs AJPress

PAUL Anka refuses to rest on his laurels, even after over 50 years spent stealing the hearts of concertgoers around the world and writing hundreds of hits for a diverse collection of legendary musicians. “If you’re really in this, you’re afraid to sit back at home and count your money,� Anka told the Asian Journal via telephone on Friday, December 2 ahead of two performances scheduled at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills, California beginning on Saturday, December 10. “Good is the enemy of great.�

Ever since he got his first big break at the age of 16 with his crooning 1957 chart topper, “Di-

ana,� Anka has relentlessly pursued opportunity.

As a young performer and songwriter he learned the ins and outs of show business running with Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. Anka would go on to write what many would regard as the Ol’ Blue Eyes’s definitive song, “My Way.�

When John, Paul, Ringo, George and Beatlemania took over American airwaves in the ‘60s, Anka pursued fame by writing (in multiple languages) and performing in Europe and Asia. He recalled singing to packed audiences at Araneta Coliseum during his first performances in the Philippines in the late ‘50s. “[Filipinos] embraced music differently than any other country

Anka graced the cover of Asian Journal’s MDWK Magazine last Oct. 15, 2014.

in that region,� Anka told the Asian Journal. “The passion they’ve got stayed with me.�

As he matured, Anka would grow into a prolific songwriter, penning music for artists like Michael Jackson, Buddy Holly, Patti Labelle and Celine Dion. Since he last spoke with the Asian Journal in 2014, he has toured through ChilĂŠ and the U.S., completed recordings in Europe, and has been staying busy in the studio writing new material.

Lately, large portions of his time have become devoted to business ventures with companies like ARHT Media, a company developing technology that brings lifelike holograms onstage at live events. Anka said he looked forward to seeing those holograms implemented in his and other shows.

However, Anka intends to carry his performances at the Saban unassisted by next generation stagecraft.

The impact of technological advances, the emergence of viral celebrities and an increasingly direct link between consumers and artists haven’t gone unnoticed by the seasoned musician. “The music business has changed,� said Anka. “It’s no longer going in and trying to force an album down a consumer’s throat.�

He said he’s been unfazed by the rapidly evolving nature of his industry. Anka feels driven by a passion for his craft that, he believes pushes, him to create music that genuinely connects with those he writes for as well as his own devoted fans. “I own the space that I’m in [and] It’s just getting broader and broader.�

That passion will be center stage at his shows next week.

Anka sings with minimal barriers to the audience, connecting with them emotionally and, oftentimes, physically. He said that, if he were allowed to, he’d put on a show for as many hours as people were willing to listen.

“That’s the only time I get away,� said the musician and entrepreneur. “There’s no phone calls, there’s nobody bothering me, I’m up there by myself, there’s nobody bustin’ my balls ... it’s an amazing bubble that you land in that nothing and nobody can interrupt. I cherish that.�

He adds that none of this would be possible without his fans. The idea of becoming a part of their lives through music is what has fueled his ability to create and sustained his decades-long career. “You have to have a passion for it. It can’t be forced. You can‘t wake up and think ‘oh god not this again,�

Anka said.

Photo by Annie Leibovitz

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B december 3-6, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

Features

Programming of Kababayan Today, December 5-9, 2016

G. TönGi Monday, december 5 - Life coach regina Santos shares tips on how to handle and manage stress during the holidays. watch out for details about the 1st Annual holiday Bazaar brought to us by FilAm Arts. Native Sol will join us on the show.

Tuesday, december 6 - romeo Garcia, Fil-Am Chocolatier, joins our program to talk about his passion for chocolates. he will be at the Sama Sama Sa Pasko this Dec. 11.

The Filipino Cultural School sings some Christmas carols on

the show. watch them live at Sama Sama Sa Pasko!

Wednesday, december 7 - The Asian Journal shares the latest headlines relevant to the Philippine community here in America.

The Bread of Life Ministries gives information about their services happenning at the Aratani theater. if you are looking for a Christian service that leads in our native language, make sure to catch details!

Jilly Canazares also joins the program to talk about Gateway to Nature.

Thursday, december 8 - Attorney Joe Sayas talks about human Trafficking in our community.

Filmmakers of the film “Curiosity, Adventure and Love” share their project with the viewers. share their project with the viewers.

Friday, december 9 - Dance along with us for a Zumba sessions with Nonie Belarmino and idanceStudio. *** 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

PH filmmaker wins Best Short Film in US action film competition

“BLooD hunters,” a film written, produced and directed by Filipino filmmaker and martial arts action star Vincent Soberano won the Best Short Film award at the Cinemax hBo Action Film Competition and the Urban Action Showcase & Expo in New york City. his triumph sets the stage of a new era of Filipino action films penetrating the international market. As Soberano said in an interview following the awards night, “My main motivation in do-

ing ‘Blood hunters’ is to promote Filipino martial arts in Filipino movies to international audiences.

They’ve used Filipino martial arts in blockbuster action films like ‘John wick,’ ‘Jason Bourne,’ ‘Frankenstein,’ and a huge list of other films. But no one knows it’s Filipino because its’ always portrayed by hollywood stars. it’s about time we change that.” with “Blood hunters” Soberano started his quest to make Filipino martial arts action films with the quality and finesse that can com-

pete on the international stage. in a nutshell, the short film tells the story of a rugged band of demon hunters who capture an aswang queen to extract her blood, which is known to bring the dead back to life. when greed and betrayal gets in the way, mayhem ensues between the hunters. The aswang escapes to face off with them in a final, action-packed showdown.

“Martial arts is my passion,” Soberano enthused. “And winning a best picture award for a martial arts film that i made is like winning a world title.”

Besides this short film, Soberano has made two other action PAGE B5

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Vincent Soberano

Nothing can be mournful than to give a father back...yet they endured.

Moonlighting

by Mylah de

leon

ThirTy-Two years ago, my husband left me. he died, leaving a house full of daughters, young and adorable, innocent, with the world on their side. in the face of adversity, we were not permitted to ask, “why me?” you can ask, but you won’t get an answer.

Through the years, i’ve learned the hard way. why some poems don’t rhyme, why some stories don’t even have a clear beginning, middle and end.

That life is a delicious ambiguity about not knowing, just taking the moment, making the most of it, without knowing what is going to happen next.

Through years of hair-raising fears and loneliness, along with joy and pride that tumbled in every widow’s brain, i’ve tried to create a vision of life for them in my mind. i went through of four lawyers, four doctors, beauty parlors and boutiques, and four writers.

And God forbid, four spinsters! you see, your children are either the center of your life or not.

The rest is commentary. having helped make them mine, i remember their arrival that still produced grave guilt in in one’s motherhood, because we AJ Ads 79 November 1 have ached for sons,2016_Layout instead. i have hatched them until they

The legacy: A house full of daughters

were ready to fly. i watched them grow from babies — whose moves toward independence were excruciatingly slow — to little children, and then into young adults.

From diapers to cap and gown for that law degree, Milkah, the eldest who taught everyone kindness, modeled respect and always looked rich and clean.

Through the scrapes and scratches, she is the indomitable one. raisha, stumbles out of the door line one of the three tenors, singing neopolitan love songs — upbeat, positive, and polite.

But somehow ancestral calls, and would delegate them as assistants to the most prominent lawyers here in Southern California and the nightingale married a hot shot lawyer in Nevada, but that’s another story. years back, they were little women that i caught falling into the fierce tentacles of first love. when their 10-year-old hearts were breaking, it sent convulsions that shook the house, weeping like Victorian heroines in immeasurable anguish and despair. i remember walking to the front door,instead of their father, to shake the hands of their first dates, young men crippled with shyness. Soon, i was walking them into the wedding altar!

Like a gypsy reads tea leaves, i saw them merged into unmanageable ceaseless demands. Always bouncing on my bed when i was inside. Bouncing on my bed, when 11/28/16 2:43 PM Page 1 i was sleeping.

Natasha, the Christmas baby,

emulated her father’s legacy… pleasant, thoughtful and generous.

Then there’s Veruschka, the source my joy and numerous excesses, always interrupting when i phoned in my stories.

They could occupy themselves endlessly with with friends, computers, malls, plays and concerts, husbands and work. And just when i’m feeling grateful for some peace, someone erupts with their call for…mother!

Their memories of their father include being perched on his lap and a kiss that cures broken legs and bruised egos. he had the uncanny way saying just the right word and to whom. his expectations, hope and commitment to us we were high.

Mr. de Leon gave us love, taught us reason and intelligence, made us feel certain we will succeed in any endeavor.

Today, it is the girls’ turn to give memories, not to take them away: their fathers 32nd death anniversary was a day of appreciation and respect. i can’t think of any other daughters who deserve it more than those who had to give their father back.

They are the instruments who were left behind to perpetuate the life that was lost and appreciate the time they had with it. i’ve watched all my daughters grow up, now they are watching me grow old.

So why am i crying? *** E-mail Mylah at moonlightingmdl@aol. com

age gracefully

CINNAMON: A Super Spice You Can Count On

BY GRACE O

The holiday season has begun and nothing puts me in a festive mood more than the aroma of something sweet baking in the oven. For many of my friends, cinnamon is what puts them in a holiday state of mind. Made from the ground bark of a genus of trees called Cinnamomum, the top cinnamon producing countries are Indonesia, China, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. There are two main types: Ceylon cinnamon, produced in Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Brazil, and the Caribbean, and cassia cinnamon, which comes mainly from Indonesia, China and Vietnam.

Cinnamon is one of those delicious spices that also has many healthful properties, which places it firmly in the realm of FoodTrients. It has been used for thousands of years, not only to enhance the flavor of foods but historically doctors used cinnamon to treat conditions such as coughing, arthritis, sore throats and other common ailments. Today, research indicates that cinnamon has some very beneficial uses, including: • Aiding digestive function • Helping to constrict and tone tissues • Relieving congestion • Relieving menstrual discomfort • Stimulating circulation with its bloodthinning compounds • Relieving arthritis pain and stiffness with its anti-inflammatory compounds • Helping prevent urinary tract infections, tooth decay and gum disease • Helping to kill E. coli and other bacteria with a powerful anti-microbial agent • Boosting activity and memory with its aroma

• Providing, in one teaspoon, 22% of the daily recommended value of manganese, a trace mineral that helps the body form strong bones, connective tissues and metabolize fat and carbohydrates.

Cinnamon has a remarkable ability to moderate blood sugar levels. I’ve been taking cinnamon capsules for years because it’s so effective at lowering blood sugar. In a USDA study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, cinnamon stood out among dozens of herbs, spices and medicinal plants as being effective in maintaining proper blood sugar metabolism.

According to the results of the study, one gram of cinnamon a day reduced blood sugar 18–29%, triglycerides 23–30% and LDL cholesterol 7–27%.

It’s so easy to add cinnamon to your diet.

Besides baked goods, you can add a teaspoonful to your oatmeal, sprinkle into coffee, tea or coco; mix it into yogurt, use it to top fresh fruit and for baked apples.

Cinnamon adds a distinctive flavor to Moroccan-style meats and stews and adds depth to sweet potatoes or baked squash.

Whole grain pancakes, waffles and French toast are all better with cinnamon. I also like to serve a steaming cup of Cinnamon Coffee on cold nights. The cinnamon and nutmeg in the recipe decrease inflammation while the cloves contain high levels of antioxidants.

Milk and the molasses in this comforting recipe provide a dose of calcium. Drink up!

© 2016 by FoodTrients.com

The Global Kababayan

3EAFOOD 3OUP

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

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

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

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L or U-shaped house

By Sean

Shono

Many L or U-shaped houses have no center points – i.e. power spots. you can not expect prosperity without a power spot.

This type of house signals that an individual is not prosperous and his/her wealth keeps declining.

Good energy flowing into the house comes to the center point first. But, without this center point, the good energy won’t stay inside and will be dispersed outside.

To cope with the trouble: 1) Place the Treasure agate at the closest point outside to create the center point inside; 2) Hang a items. Ask a Feng Shui master copper wind chime on two walls how to use. *** as illustrated.

Feng Shui master Sean Shono owns Dragon *Dragon God offers specially treated and purified Feng Shui God, a Feng Shui store in Gardena, California.

He is the U.S. Chief of the International Feng Shui Association. For more information, please call Sean Shono at (310) 787-1891. Dragon God is located at 1580 W. Artesia SQ. Suite A, Gardena, CA 90248.

Turning your luck around with Dragon God Feng Shui Garry Prado felt hopeless.

He was broke, struggling to maintain his personal relationships, and stressed out.

But then an unexpected conversation with a stranger rekindled his fascination with the principlesa of Feng Shui.

Fortune led Prado to Master atsushi “Sean” Shono, the head of the International Feng Shui association’s U.S. Branch and proprietor of Dragon God Feng Shui. The lifelong practitioner of the ancient tradition was a student of Grandmaster raymond Lo, and has evaluated major projects like the Tokyo Tower in Japan.

With the aid of Shono’s expertise and the specialty items from his shop designed to optimize the flow of energy throughout a Kayoko Ogura and master Atsushi “Sean” Shono

A HUSbAnD’S 30-YeAr-OlD “SeCret” AlmOSt DerAIleD tHe FAmIlY’S Green CArDS On An enCOre epISODe OF CItIZen pInOY! leading US immigration attorney mICHAel J. GUrFInKel was able to revive Alice’s petition by her US citizen father, after it was terminated due to the petitioner’s death. the family was then eligible to get their visas years ahead of schedule by using the priority date of Alice’s lebanese husband, Andre. but Andre refused to come to the US because of a “secret” he had kept for 30 years, preventing him from going back to the US. Atty. Gurfinkel worked “miracles” to resolve the mystery behind this fascinating success story, on an encore episode of CItIZen pInOY – on Sunday, December 4 at 6:15 pm (pSt) on tFC.

person’s home, Prado started to “It can work if you allow it me find inner peace.” see his luck turn around in just to,” said Prado, a clinical rePrado said Shono’s guidance a few weeks. search coordinator. “It helped has helped frame his life with

positivity and left him better equipped to handle its challenges. Because circumstance and energy are always in flux, he regularly consults with Shono, and, over time, has gotten to know him.

“Sometimes he’s so funny, but when it comes to giving advice he takes it very seriously,” said Prado. “They’re

very genuine, They will really help you.”

For more information visit Dragon God USa at 1580 W artesia Sq. #a in Gardena, California, or its website at www. dragongodusa.com. you can also direct questions to dragongod4@gmail.com or dial (310) 787-1891.

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Famed ramen shop Tsujita opens third location in Glendale

IN recent months, a stretch of Brand Blvd. in Glendale, California has suddenly been revitalized with outposts of hot foodie spots.

Across from The Americana at Brand, Shake Shack, Philz Coffee, Mainland Poke and Greenleaf Gourmet Chopshop have opened up — giving us all more dining options to choose from. Popular breakfast sandwich outlet eggslut is slated to open at the end of the year.

This past week on November 30, The Americana at Brand continued on its reputation as an eastside culinary destination, with the opening of Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle, the No. 1 rated ramen restaurant in Los Angeles. This marks its third location in the LA area.

The 2,700 square-foot restaurant — located by the valet stand of the mall — has a 53-person seating capacity and bears a more modern, high-end vibe, unlike the cozier decor found at the other two LA locations.

“We meticulously choose the restaurants we bring to our property. We have an amazing selection of restaurants and we’re very proud of that,” Julie Jauregui, senior general manager of The Americana at Brand, said. “In choosing something for this great position, we wanted to make sure it was a restaurant that was known for their great cuisine and known all over Los Angeles. Tsujita has had much success in Los Angeles and we felt like it was the perfect match here,

Ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 30, led by Koichi Motegi, Vice President of Colliers International; Julie Jauregui, Senior General Manager of The Americana at Brand; and Takehiro Tsujita, owner of The Tsujita.

AJPress photos by Christina M. Oriel

with only eight seats.”

Tsujita said more ramen shops will be opened in the coming year; areas targeted include Orange County, Las Vegas and honolulu.

“The reason why we are opening at a slow pace is because we are careful of the detail of every restaurant,” the Japanese chef said via his interpreter Koichi Motegi, vice president of Colliers International.

For those familiar with the Tsuso it was an obvious choice for us. LA Artisan Noodles Annex down The minute they reached out to us, the block, which opened two years jita menu, the location at The later. (he also has Sushi Tsujita, Americana at Brand of course offers we were very excited.” the ever popular Tonkotsu (pork Takehiro Tsujita, the Tokyo na- which doesn’t serve ramen.)

“We appreciate the Americana broth) and Tsukemen (noodles tive who began the noodle shop, expanded to the U.S. five years inviting us to open our third ramen served separately from the soup) ago on Sawtelle Boulevard in West shop,” Tsujita said. “We started 13 Los Angeles. There’s also Tsujita years ago with a store [in Japan]

bowls. But, diners can expect a more extensive menu with small plate offerings (tapas-style).

“If ppl like my ramen and accept it, that’s the reason why I opened in the U.S.,” Tsujita said. “Since I’m not a business person, it’s up to customers to decide whether they like the ramen or not.”

As temperatures are lowering, there’s perhaps no better way to take a break from shopping and warming up with a generous bowl of ramen. If the popularity of Tsujita on the westside of town can be replicated in Glendale, expect some wait time before getting a table, but

(Advertising Supplement)

The holiday spirit in full swing at The Americana at Brand WITh the 100-foot tree lit up, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at The Americana at Brand.

The tree, which is on display through Christmas, is adorned with 15,000 lights and over 10,000 ornaments.

“We like to say we own Christmas as a property. We’re very passionate about the holidays.

We’re very obvious about it,” Julie Jauregui,

Tsukemen, deconstructed noodles and soup

taste for yourself, the ramen lives up to its highly esteemed reputation.

“We offer something to the Asian community you might not find anywhere else outside somewhere else that is predominately Asian. We’re very proud of the curated mix of retail and restaurants that really appeal to the Asian demographic,” Jauregui said.

The Tsujita Artisan Noodle is located at 889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210. hours are from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (10:30 p.m. for last call). For more information, please visit http://tsujita-la.com/.

A sample of small plate dishes

senior general manager of The Americana at Brand, said.

In addition, there’s a Santa house for family photo opportunities. Since LA doesn’t get a snow, the mall puts on a snow show twice a night at 7 and 8 p.m.

“It’s sort of like a fantasy. We create an amazing experience for those who are shopping,” said Jauregui.

Tonkatsu ramen (pork broth) Mango pudding

The 100-foot tall Christmas tree at The Americana at Brand.

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AJPress photo by Maria Sobingsobing

A ‘hero’s burial’ and the path to forgiveness

By Monet

Lu

The late Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. he who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.

There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us.

When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies.”

Of all the virtues – that are much easier conceived than achieved – the virtue of forgiving transgressions holds the most weight for me.

I say that because it affects so many aspects of life. As what Martin Luther King Jr. said, “he who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.” Forgiveness equates love and goodness and peace and wisdom. I can go on and on but you get the point.

Such is the point that a number of people who are for the hero’s burial of former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos were making. For them, the former president and dictator deserves this burial because he contributed a lot to our nation’s progress. Plus, it’s time to move on. On the other hand, protestors do not see this as a question of whether they are ready to move on or not, rather a travesty on what our country has fought for during the eDSA revolution.

The 21-year administration of Marcos is notorious for its many human rights abuses. Amnesty International recorded about 70,000 people imprisoned, 34,000 tortured, and 3,240 were killed from 1972 to 1981 – the years when

the Philippines was placed under martial law.

Yet, a decision has been made.

Despite public opposition, the Supreme Court ruled that Marcos be entombed in the cemetery, where former presidents, soldiers and national artists have been interred.

A 21-gun salute preluded the ceremony earlier in November. Soldiers in parade dress and ceremonial rifles stood to attention at the cemetery after Marcos’s body was secretly flown to the venue in an apparent effort to avoid protests.

On one hand, I was relieved because the long-running issue of whether or not the former president should be buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani has finally been put to rest. however, I also empathize with some of my fellow Filipinos who are opposed to the idea of a “heroes burial.” I feel their pain and I understand where they are coming from.

I myself witnessed and experienced

Martial Law. I remember having a curfew – and actually keeping it for fear of being “reprimanded.”

But I hope I won’t gain enemies when I say that I think it is time this issue is laid to rest. As I’ve said in my introduction, forgiving is key. I said, forgive – NOT forget. Those are two different things – and sadly, is misused (or misperceived) all the time. There is a saying, “To forgive is to forget.” But for me, that’s an illusion. You may be able to move on from a mistreatment or harm done to you but it’s not easy to forget the pain and the cost of it.

I think – and again, this is just my opinion – we should forgive the former president and not let anybody else suffer more, including – and most especially – his family. The “sins of the father are not the sins of the children.” We don’t necessarily need to forget all the horrible things that happened during his PAGE B5

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Cajun and Thai flavors unite at Nine Seafood in Cerritos IF there’s one food trend that Southern California has really embraced, it’s Cajun-style seafood.

Even with the vast restaurant options out there, Nine Seafood has made a name for itself in Cerritos, California for the past three years, and has become a favorite spot for many Filipino Americans.

Perhaps, it’s the whole dining and bonding process — using one’s hands to peel, crack and dip the seafood into a sauce — that draws Fil-Am families to places like Nine Seafood.

The restaurant’s premise is simple and rooted in Cajun influence: select seafood by the pound (shrimp, crawfish, Dungeness crab, King Crab leg, lobster), a sauce flavor (lemon pepper, garlic butter, Cajun, lemongrass, or a mix of all of them), and the level of spiciness (on a scale indicated by the number of chili peppers from very mild for those who have a low spice tolerance to Bangkok spicy for the more adventurous).

The recipes for the sauces here are well-kept secrets, but they are frankly what make Nine Seafood stand out among the other options. The blend of herbs and spices add bursts of flavor to the seafood offerings, making them finger-licking delicious.

For the last step, you choose what to add into your plastic “bag” of seafood: corn on the cob, red po-

tatoes or sausage. This is one of the little details that makes Nine Seafood stand out because normally at other establishments, these items are automatically included, even if you want them or not.

Larger parties, however, may want to order pre-selected combinations of the seafood offerings for the option to try all of the choices. Combo #1 ($37.99) has 1 piece of King Crab Leg, clusters of Snow Crab, and 1/2 pounds of shrimp, crawfish, clams, and New Zealand mussels. Combo #2 ($40.99) has 1 pound of Snow Crabs, 1 pound of shrimp, and the choice of 1 pound of the mussels or crawfish. Combo #3 ($44.99) has 1 pound of King Crab Legs, 1 pound of shrimp, and the choice of 1 pound of clam or crawfish.

Lastly, Combo #4 ($48.99) offers 1 lobster and 2 pounds of shrimp. All combos come with potatoes, sausage and corn on the cob.

All of the seafood is served fresh, it’s almost like you’re eating seaside. (The beach/sea-themed decors within the restaurant help cultivate this impression too.)

Even if you don’t want to use your bare hands (gloves can be requested too), there are other menu options, from fried seafood to clam chowder, to choose from.

Among the standouts is the fried combination (shrimp, calamari,

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#ATERING FOR !LL /CCASSIONS catfish and oyster) and Cajun fries. There’s also Thai dishes, like fried rice, seafood soups with or without coconut milk, Pad Thai and Pad See Ew. Overall, the experience can be messy and leave lingering traces of the spices, but it’s well worth the wait and level of fullness

PH filmmaker A ‘hero’s burial’ and the path... wins Best...

PAGE B4

PAGE B2 films this year. The latest one is the full-length version of the short film starring martial arts legend Monsour Del Rosario in his return to a leading role on the silver screen.

Soberano will also star alongside Del Rosario, supported by a cast of real Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) masters and experts. This project is due for release in 2017.

All the positive public feedback that his latest martial arts film has received serve as a motivation for m Soberano actively work on the renaissance of action films.

He enthused, “This is a new era.

Filipinos are eager to see a change in Filipino cinema, particularly with a revival of the martial arts action genre. There have been thousands of positive feedbacks regarding this project as the Filipino public is clamoring for a new generation of action films.” (ManilaTimes.net)

regime. I don’t suggest that at all.

It’s impossible to just erase all those tragic memories. Forgiving doesn’t always mean you get an amnesia and forget what has been said and done. It’s the ideal but not the norm – and definitely not physically and mentally possible. We can move on without forgetting. There will always be a part of us that would remember. But we can – and we should – try to forgive.

Whenever I hear comments from the opposition camp, I sympathize. But I also consider the many things the Marcos Administration achieved. Infrastructure development is one of them.

Infrastructures that were unprecedented in the history of our country such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Folk Arts Theatre, Philippine International Convention Center, Makiling Center for the Arts (National Arts Center), Malacañang ti Amianan in Laoag, Nayong Pilipino, Museum for Na-

afterward.

Nine Seafood is located at 11818 South Street Suite 108, Cerritos, CA 90703. It is opened 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, please call (562) 865-8990 or visit www. nineseafoodrestaurant.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

a human rights violator by tales passed on from generation to gentive Art in Tacloban, and Palace in eration, there is no denying that his the Sky. These projects provided achievements were remarkable and venue for the Filipinos to highlight still impacts our country’s system cultural heritage, propagate arts to this day. and culture, and generate tour“There is some good in the worst ism. of us and some evil in the best of us.

Also, during Marcos’ time, there When we discover this, we are less was great concern on public health. prone to hate our enemies,” said.

Specialty hospitals like the Philip- Martin Luther King Jr. pine Heart Center, Lung Center, We all make mistakes and we all Kidney Institute, and Philippine need forgiveness. We can’t bring Children Hospital were built. These Marcos back to life and force him hospitals opened access to the to beg for forgiveness but we can nation’s best doctors. wake up everyday with less grudges More road networks and bridg- and a forgiving heart. es were constructed during his *** time. The first modern toll-way, Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning the Manila North Diversion Road, celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of precursor of the North Luzon Monet Salon salons across Southern California Expressway (Nlex), the Marcos and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is Highway to Baguio increased the known as an all-around artiste who produces City’s income, and the San Juanico sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as Bridge that links the islands of unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is Samar and Leyte were constructed also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural through his spectacular civil-works beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution program. to discoloration . To contact Monet, please Although Marcos was branded visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at as a corrupt, heartless dictator and monetsalon@aol.com

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COMMUNITY Journal

Your Immigration Solution AmAndA C. Kwong And nAnCy miller ONCE asylum has been granted, the non-citizen has lawful status to live and work in the United States—even without an employment authorization document (EAD). Some asylees apply for EADs to obtain an additional government issued identity document and they are eligible to do so. While asylee status does not expire, it may be revoked. A change in country conditions or a return to the country of persecution may result in the loss of asylum. So can obtaining lawful status in a third country. And conviction of various crimes may render the asylee ineligible to maintain that status.

The asylee may apply for her spouse and children to join as derivatives within two years of the grant of asylum. Proof of the familial relationship is required for spouse and children. However, applications for children have additional requirements. The children must have been under twenty-one years old and unmarried as of the date of filing the asylum application. Additional requirements apply depending on whether the child is biological, step, adopted or even unborn at the time of the initial filing.

USCIS may require a DNA test of a purported biological parents and child when the officer suspects that the relationship does not exist. Step-children qualify as derivative children as long as the relationship among child, biological parent, and principal asylee can be demonstrated.

An adoptee is considered to be a child where the legal adoption took place prior to the child’s 16th birthday, and the custody and joint residency requirements have been met. Finally, an unborn child will need to be explained and documented as the child was most likely not included on the initial asylum application.

Like the principal asylee, derivatives are eligible to apply to adjust status to lawful perma-

Asylum granted: Now what?

nent residence after one year of asylum status. As green card holders, they can petition family members who did not qualify as derivative asylees. In certain circumstances, family members not eligible as derivatives may be paroled into the United States for humanitarian reasons, even before the asylee becomes a permanent resident. Most commonly are minor grandchildren or parents with disabilities who are unable to care for themselves.

There are times when a derivative may be made a principal asylee nunc pro tunc, such as divorce from or death of the original principal asylee. In other words, the derivative spouse may retroactively become a principal asylee backdated to the date that her spouse was granted status. There are other benefits of changing a derivative into a principal, such as being able to bring the principal asylee’s grandchild who did not otherwise qualify as a derivative.

While an asylee has the right to be lawfully present and work in the US, she needs to apply for a refugee travel document if she plans to travel internationally.

Without this travel document, the asylee will be considered inadmissible when attempting to reenter the US. The refugee travel document is valid for up to one year. Once expired, an aslyee who has traveled outside of the country is inadmissible and may not resume her status unless she is granted a new refugee travel document. While the asylee may

apply for a new refugee travel document at a US consulate or port of entry, there is no guarantee that it will be granted. Thus, it is wiser to return to the US before the document expires.

Traveling on the passport of the home country is considered availing oneself of the protection of the country of persecution and can result in the revocation of asylum (or the green card). Likewise, returning to her country of origin after obtaining asylum status may be considered “voluntarily re-availing oneself of the protection of the country of nationality.” What that means is that an asylee could lose her asylum status because it appears that she no longer has a well-founded fear of persecution in her home country as a result of her race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion. Of course, there are instances where an individual must go to her home country despite her well-founded fear. Should the government seek to revoke the asylum grant, the asylee (or green card holder) may contest that attempt in Immigration Court.

Asylee status is precious. It accords one safety from persecution. It allows the family of the principal asylee to live and work with them here in the U.S. And asylee status can also lead to green cards and U.S. citizenship.

But it can also be lost. Asylees should consult a knowledgeable and experienced immigration

u PAGE C4

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C DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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Will your debt problems follow you into 2017?

Minding Your Finances Atty. rAyMond BulAon I CAN’T believe this year is almost over. This morning, I saw a lot of my neighbors starting to put up their Christmas lights.

It seems like 2016 just started.

Where did the time go? For me, it’s going a little too fast these days.

It is usually around this time of the year that people reflect on what they have done or have failed to do in the passing year.

As a bankruptcy attorney, I know that one of the things that people worry about all the time is their finances.

Plagued by the anxiety brought about by debt problems and fore-

by Andrew

Community Journal

closure in the last several years, many people found themselves filing for bankruptcy protection in order to recover financially and start over. As we close another year, wouldn’t it make sense to have a plan on how you can better manage your finances this coming year? If you are still in debt and your situation has remained unchanged from last year, what is your game plan in resolving your financial difficulties?

Last month, several people came to our office saying that they had decided to file bankruptcy because they wanted to start their new year fresh and realized that they really had no other way out of debt. They said that they had given their decision a lot of thought and realized that the longer they procrastinated about making a decision to start fresh, the longer they were put-

ting their life on hold. I’ve heard this many times from clients.

Most of the time, these people already know what they need to do but what stops them from filing bankruptcy is their fear that once they do, their situation will only get worse instead of better.

Thus, I am often asked by clients whether life will ever become “normal” again after filing for bankruptcy. First of all, what does the word “normal” really mean? If by “normal”, you mean being able to rid your life of the stress brought about by the problems of heavy indebtedness, I would say that the answer has to be “yes”. If by “normal” you mean being finally able to regain control of your life again once again instead of going through every day with your fingers crossed and simply hoping that your debt problems

Get paid for caring

PArAnAl, eSQ

SINCE my dad died five years ago, my mother has had hip-replacement surgery and been diagnosed with early-stage bladder cancer. I quit my part-time job to be available for her. Every day, it seems, I spend more hours transporting her places and comforting her until late evening. When I’m not with her, I’m rushing around to care for my two teenage girls. More than ever, I need my husband of 17 years to pick up the slack at home, but he has a high-pressure job and says he can’t reduce his time at the office. I think he’s happier there than at home. I’m increasingly angry and defensive with him.

He wants me to hire a caregiver and go back to work to ease our financial pressure, but Mom isn’t comfortable around others. I want to feel that I did everything I could for her if this cancer turns out to be terminal, but I miss my husband terribly. We communicate mostly by e-mail, and sex is a distant memory. And no, we have no money or time for couple’s counseling. (Caring.com, Family Advisor, April 2008) How many women in our Filipino-American community can identify with this? Why? Because the fastest growing portion of the American population is individuals over age 85. Most of those are women who are widowed or alone due to other circumstances.

And in the American culture, it is still regarded as a daughter’s re-

Andrew Paranal, ESQ

sponsibility to care for an elderly parent. Women make up 72% of those unpaid family members who serve as caregivers.

If you are interested in the response of Carol D. O’Dell, author of Mothering Mother: A Daughter’s Humorous and Heartbreaking Memoir, about her experience caring for her mother through Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and coronary diseases, you can find it on the internet at “www.caring.com/blogs/family-advisor,” along with dozens of other helpful questions and answers.

In addition to Ms. O’Dell’s advice, I have some for caregivers as well: apply for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). Some of the problems facing caregivers and their families are financially related; IHSS can assist in eliminating some of the financial concerns so you can concentrate on taking care of your loved ones.

IHSS provides people who have disabilities or are over the age of 65 with in-home and personal care services to help them live safely in their own home or maintain an independent living arrangement. IHSS is often seen as an alternative to assisted living or nursing facilities, and is funded by state, county and federal dollars.

Any California resident, living in his/her own home, who is already eligible for Medi-Cal can be eligible for IHSS, i.e., less than $2,000 in personal property for an individual; $3,000 for a couple—one home, one car used to get to medical appointments, and life insurance with a combined face value under $1,500.

How many widowed mothers have sold their home and moved in with an adult child? Why not qualify for IHSS and get a monthly check to hire home-care to provide some relief for your “dutiful-daughter?”

Wouldn’t that give her time to take care of her own needs, including her husband and children?

How many widowed fathers, who may be better-off living at an assisted living facility, insist on living at home independently.

You try to help-out as much as you possibly can, but it’s impossible to be there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. IHSS would pay a monthly check to hire part-time home-care so dad can remain at home more safely.

IHSS does not send any caretak-

u PAGE C3

would somehow solve themselves, I would say “yes” again.

As a bankruptcy attorney, I find that a lot of people are so misinformed about the purpose of our bankruptcy laws that they think filing bankruptcy is admitting that they’ve failed. So they continue to suffer needlessly when the law actually provides a solution for their situation.

Don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that bankruptcy is the solution to all financial problems.

If you are having a tough time financially and are struggling to pay your creditors, I am not suggesting that you should quickly take the easy path by bailing out and giving up without first seriously considering all other options that may be available to you. If at all possible, you should find out whether there are non-bankruptcy alterna-

Tax Tips Victor Sy, cPA, MBA

WHEN buying real estate, there is always that inevitable question: how do you hold title? Your choice can have dramatic impact on estate taxes and income taxes.

Let’s explore choices to help you determine which title is best for your next property. Whichever you chose, get legal advice from your attorney.

Joint Tenancy: • Any number of persons (not just husband & wife) can use joint tenancy.

• Ownership must be equal.

• There is only one title to the whole property.

• Each one has equal right of possession.

• Ownership by joint tenancy must be expressly stated (it cannot be presumed).

• Purchaser of a share becomes a tenant in common (see last choice below).

• A joint tenant’s death passes his/her share to the survivors automatically.

• Surviving spouse can pass title by simply recording an Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant.

• A deceased joint tenant’s share cannot be deposed by will.

• Last survivor owns the property.

• Important: only the deceased spouse’s ½ gets a step-up basis

tives in dealing with your debt problems.

However, if you’re already past that point and have exhausted all your options, what I’m saying is that you shouldn’t sit around thinking that your life is over just because bankruptcy is inevitable and that you will never have a second chance. Sure, maybe you’ve made some mistakes that led to your present situation but filing bankruptcy doesn’t mean that you’re a failure. If you focus on reliving the negative experiences of the past, you’re likely to miss opportunities that lie ahead.

So get back up again and dust yourself off.

Someone said: “Success truly is the result of good judgment.

Good judgment is the result of experience, and experience is often the result of bad judgment!”

You know what that means? That

means that you can make mistakes, learn from them and eventually still be successful! Your life can be better and it’s your attitude that makes the difference!

If you are ready to make 2017 a better year but are still struggling financially with debt problems and don’t know where to turn for help, we can help you figure out all available options. For more information and to schedule a free consultation, please call TollFree 1-866-477-7772. 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)

How should you hold title to real estate? (more taxes).

Community Property: • Only husband and wife can own realty as community property.

• Both have equal ownership, management, and control.

• There is a strong presumption that any acquisition after marriage is community property.

• Any conveyance requires the written consent of the other spouse.

• Any buyer must acquire the whole property, not part of it.

• Title to property is in the community and cannot be sold separately.

• Each interest is separate but cannot be conveyed (except upon death).

• On death, ½ belongs to survivor, ½ to deceased spouse’s estate or heirs.

• Changing title requires filing a “spousal property petition” in probate court.

• Important: both halves get “step-up” bases to the fair market on death of either spouse (less taxes).

• Community property states include Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Community Property with Right of Survivorship: • This is the newest form of ownership in the State of Cali-

fornia.

• It combines the advantages of community property (100% step up basis) and joint tenancy (automatic passing of title to surviving spouse).

• Only husband and wife can have community property with right of survivorship.

Tenancy in Common: • Any number of persons (not just husband & wife) can be tenants in common.

• Ownership can be divided into any number of equal or unequal shares.

• Co-owners have separate legal titles, but have equal rights of possession.

• Co-owners can sell or dispose their interests separately.

• Courts favor tenancy in common in doubtful cases (except between husband & wife). *** 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)

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

Protecting Employee & Consumer Rights Atty. C. Joe SAyAS, Jr. ON October 23, 1979, Jesus Rodriguez was injured in a traffic accident after being hit by a vehicle driven by Samuel Kline.

As a result of his injuries, Rodriguez could no longer work at his usual job. Rodriguez sued Kline in court and won a judgment of $99,000 for his damages. A substantial portion of Rodriguez’s award for damages came from his future loss of earnings.

Kline appealed the judgment, saying that Rodriguez’s damages should be reduced because Rodriguez admitted in court that he is an “illegal alien.” Kline argued that someone who is in the United States illegally is only entitled to compensation for personal injuries based on his projected earning capacity in the country of lawful citizenship (in Rodriguez’s case, Mexico). If so, Rodriguez’s damages should indeed be drastically reduced.

The Court of Appeal decided that undocumented workers may recover damages for personal injuries, including future loss of earnings, if they could show that they had applied for a visa and had worked to correct their illegal status. In other words, if they had already corrected their illegal status, then their damages for future loss of earnings will based on what they could have earned in the U.S. If the undocumented worker cannot show that he or she has worked toward becoming

Community Journal

Can undocumented immigrants recover damages for serious injuries in an accident?

(Injured persons’ immigration status not subject to inquiry under new law)

a legal worker (i.e., they’re still undocumented) their earningcapacity damages are based on earning capacity in their home country.

This law has stood for 30 years.

Many injured undocumented workers have chosen not to make claims for serious injuries fearing that their immigration status will become known and they will be deported. Worse, the decision in the Rodriguez case has also been used by defendants in personal injury cases to argue that compensation for medical expenses should be based on how much the care would cost for a person in their country of origin, rather than in California.

To finally correct this state of affairs and continue to strengthen California’s commitment to protect undocumented workers from exploitation, California passed a law to overturn the Rodriguez decision. This new law will take effect in February 2017.

The new law states: “In a civil action for personal injury or wrongful death, evidence of a person’s immigration status shall not be admitted into evidence, nor shall discovery into a person’s immigration status be permitted.”

An injured person’s immigration status cannot therefore be asked or be the subject of inquiry in a personal injury or wrongful death litigation. This affords the

immigrant an opportunity to recover damages in full. It avoids the injustice of having the negligent party pay lesser compensation simply due to the victim’s undocumented status.

In its support of the new law, the Consumer Federation of California noted that “Once immigration status is raised, a person, injured through no fault of their own, is faced with either forgoing recovery for his injuries, or continuing with his case in fear of deportation. Immigration status is strategically applied only when the undocumented person is from a country whose wages are lower than the U.S. … This allows defendants to undercut the value of an injured immigrant’s future medical care, even though that future medical care will be in the U.S., not their country of origin.” *** 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-Advo(Advertising Supplement) cates Forum.

Can I get a green card if I had a previous marriage petition denied based on fraud?

DEAR Attorney Tan, I recently married a US Citizen, who is my second husband. He has filed an immigrant visa petition and green card application for me.

My husband recently received from USCIS a Notice of Intent to Deny the petition that he filed on my behalf. The Notice indicated that the immigrant visa petition could not be approved since the USCIS had determined that I previously entered into a fraudulent marriage to get a green card several years ago. My ex-husband previously filed an immigrant petition on my behalf several years ago, which was denied since USCIS determined that I only married him to get a green card.

My second husband and I truly love each other. What are my options? -- In Love but Out of Status Dear In Love but Out of Status, Under INA Section 204(c), a person who “attempted or conspired to enter into a marriage” in order to receive permanent resident status in the US is prohibited from obtaining USCIS approval of an immigrant visa petition. Simply stated, Section 204(c) prohibits approval of any immigrant visa petition if there has been a finding of “marriage fraud” in a prior marriage-based petition.

Based on the above law, your case seems at first glance like an “open-and-shut” case in favor of denial. However, you still have hope of getting a green card—a person can apply for and get his immigrant petition approved despite the prior finding of “marriage fraud” under certain circumstances.

You may ask, how is this possible? Isn’t Section 204(c) straightforward? Not quite. The answer lies in the fact that USCIS must independently examine the prior finding of “marriage fraud” in considering the subsequently filed immigrant visa petition. Before invoking the Sec. 204(c) bar to approval of a subsequent visa petition, USCIS must make an independent determination of fraud based upon the record, including but not limited to any evidence gathered during adjudication of the prior visa petition, but may not parrot or rely on the conclusions made by other adjudicators. USCIS must have “substantial and probative” evidence of “marriage fraud.” Matter of Tawfik, 20 I. & N. Dec. 166, 168.

The determination is to be made by the USCIS district director while adjudicating the subsequent visa petition. Matter of Samsen, 15 I. & N. Dec. 28, 1974 WL 29995 (B.I.A. 1974). The district director should not give conclusive effect to the determinations made in the prior proceedings, but should reach his own independent conclusion based on the evidence actually before him. Matter of F-, 9 I. & N. Dec. 684 (BIA 1962).

Therefore, in cases such as yours in which the USCIS has indicated it intends to deny the subsequent immigrant visa petition due to the prior finding of “marriage fraud,” new evidence can be submitted that demonstrates that the prior finding of “marriage fraud” was incorrect—i.e., evidence that shows that the prior marriage petition was based on a bona fide marriage, or that explains that the prior denial was based on an incomplete or inaccurate assessment of the facts. In cases in which the subsequent immigrant visa petition has already been denied, this new evidence should be submitted as part of a motion to reconsider. I recommend that you seek an experienced attorney to assist you in properly presenting the law and facts to the USCIS adjudicator to address the Section 204(c) bar. *** 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)

Barrister’s Corner Atty. Kenneth UrSUA reyeS THE holidays and the end of the year is a good 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

Five benefits of establishing a revocable living trust 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 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 as-

sets. 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. Be 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 to your living trust does not even have to be close family members. You can des-

u PAGE C4

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 3-6, 2016

Insurance Matters JoSeph DorAtAn, MBA, CFp® PRESIDENT-elect Trump vowed to repeal at least parts of Affordable Care Act (ACA). Certain parts of that he will maintain, as he wants all Americans to have insurance and to maintain health coverage for those who have pre-existing health condition. Surely change will come, but for now, Covered CA assures Californians that 1) your coverage will remain intact for 2017 and foreseeable future, 2) your financial assistance (subsidies, APTC/CSR, small business tax credits) are protected under the law, and 3) the rates for 2017 will not change.

With that assurance, we can focus on selecting health plans.

There are four (4) metallic plans available: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. If you are less than 30 yrs. old, you can also have minimum coverage. Broadly, the differences are in how much the health insurance pays claims, from 60 percent to 90 percent of the costs. Minimum coverage plans cover least while Platinum plans cover most. Even if the plans do not cover 100 percent, one noteworthy fact is that health insurance benefit is unlimited which is especially helpful for people who are in catastrophic circumstances. For 2017, another invaluable fact is that you will not have to pay more than $7,100 if you have a minimum coverage plan and $4,000 if you have a Platinum plan -- the maximum out-ofpocket cost.

Bronze plans have fixed copays only on primary care doctor’s visits, specialist visits, ur-

C

Series for Covered CA: Part 2

Different Health Plans gent care and lab. They are $75, $105, $75 and $40 respectively.

For the rest of the services you are on your own until you reach the $6,300 deductible before the bronze plan will help you. Silver and above have better protection. Also, when you select a Silver plan, you may be offered an Enhanced Silver rather than a Standard Silver. What does it mean? Lower copays. For example, primary care visit copay for Silver 70 is $35, Silver 73 is $30, Silver 87 is $10 and Silver 94 and $5.

Health plans differ by HMO, PPO, EPO and HSP. A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan is a plan that requires you to have a Primary Care Physician (PCP). The PCP will be the one who refers you to the specialists. These specialists are typically within the same medical group as the PCP. If the specialists are not in that medical group, then most likely you won’t be able to see them. As for the services and the procedures they have to be arranged first by the doctors and approved by the medical group. This managed care plan essentially reduces the size of the network of providers to only the ones that are contracted with the medical group.

This type of plan also demands your patience as time and effort is needed in seeking referral and approval.

A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan on the other hand has much wider network and gives you direct access to the specialists. So if you need to see say your ophthalmologist, you can just dial his number and set an appointment. You can go to both in-network and out-of-

Get paid for…

network providers. But you want to use in-network providers in most cases. Why? Again, to keep your costs down. Although your PPO plan may pay to out-of-network providers, the amount will only be very little compared to your share.

An Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) is similar to a PPO in that you don’t need to designate a PCP. You don’t need referrals to see specialists. The main difference between EPO and PPO is that you cannot use out-of-network providers at all. You should stay within the network exclusive to your plan.

A Health care Savings Plan (HSP) is a hybrid between HMO and EPO. It’s like HMO because most HSPs will require you to designate a PCP. It’s like an EPO because you can see specialists without referrals but you can’t go outside the network.

A variation of these types is a Health Savings Account (HSP) health insurance plan. If you have these, you can tax deduct the amount contributed into an HSP account and normally the amount here is used to pay high deductibles and other medical expenses.

Renewal for Jan 1, 2017 effective date is still ongoing. New applicants can enroll between Nov 1, 2016 and Jan 31, 2017. If you need help renewing or enrolling, please call 855-955-1800 or visit an official Covered CA storefront near you. ***

If you have more questions regarding the enrollment periods or other insurance questions, feel free to ask the author for answers. A good telephone number to reach him is 855-955-1800. You can also check out www.GlobalWealthInsuranceServices.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

fore you start transferring any of your parent’s assets. *** physical abilities to determine PAGE C2 t ers to your home. You are respon- what tasks you can perform safe- Elder Law Services of California is proud to sible for hiring, firing, and super- ly and what you might need help announce that attorney Andrew Paranal has vising your care provider. You can with. They will also evaluate your joined its trust department. Mr. Paranal began his career in estate planning in 2013 hire a friend, relative, neighbor or living and social situation.

They will also determine if and has since expanded into asset protection other care provider (including paying yourself). IHSS simply sends you qualify for IHSS. What if my and Medi-Cal planning. He became interested you a check every month. How parent has more than the allow- in Elder Law after helping care for a family much you get depends on the level able resource limits? Can the ex- member who experienced a debilitating of care required. The maximum is cess assets be gifted away? Isn’t event. Mr. Paranal is excited to join an there a 3-year waiting period? established law firm and hopes to educate $53,028 annually.

Once you contact IHSS, a case- Surprisingly, excess assets may his Filipino community about the tremendous worker will come to your home to be gifted and you can get IHSS benefits of proper estate planning. conduct a “needs assessment.” without any waiting period at all. For more information, please visit They will also ask you a series of But seek advice from a qualified elderlawcalifornia.com or call 1-800-411-0546 (Advertising Supplement) questions about your mental and Medi-Cal planning attorney be-

C DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

Community Journal

Seniors consider Chapter 13 relief for $80K credit cards

Debt Relief

Young couple need Chapter 7 relief for $40K credit cards

Atty. LAwrence yAng CLIENTS are married to each other and they are both seniors.

He is 68 and she is 66. He is a member of the professions and still works in that professional capacity. She is retired. Their residence has equity of $400K. This fact alone knocks them out of Chapter 7. In Chapter 7, the trustee has the power to sell their home, give them their homestead exemption of $175K and use $225 to pay of trustee administrative expenses and trustee’s lawyer. After they are paid, whatever is left is used to pay the $80K and if there is anything left, probably one dollar will be given to the debtors. It’s strange that $145K can be used for administrative and legal fees to pay $80K of credit cards, but I have seen this happen. It’s really not that unusual. I represent an unsecured creditor for $250K in a Chapter 7 case of a company that had $385K in its checking accounts when the case was converted from Chapter 11 to Chapter 7. In a span of 18 months, the bulk of the $385K had been used up for trustee and his legal fees.

My client’s $250K which I had to defend vigorously in trial is probably worth 20 percent now.

However, what is going on is perfectly legal. Once the trustee and his lawyers start to administer the bankruptcy estate assets, they will make a lot of money. I understand that the moneymaking bankruptcies are offset by the money-losing bankruptcies; so in the end, of course, the trustee has to stay ahead of his expenses. The closest analogy is using a sledgehammer to kill a fly, or paying $10K for a screwdriver.

It’s this kind of stuff. It’s legal but it doesn’t make any sense but we have to live with it.

Aside from owning their residence, clients also own a rental, which has no equity. It’s negative about $20K, and they lose about $300 a month because the rent is less than the mortgage payment and the property management fee. Husband last year liquidated $50K of his $70K 401K

to cover the $30K he needed for minimum payments on the $80K credit cards. After that payment of $30K at the sacrifice of his retirement account, they still owe the same $80K! They have been paying the minimum of $2,500 a month to keep these cards current for a very long time. Even at ten years, and I am sure their credit card debt has been there longer than that, they already have paid $300K and today they still owe the very same $80K! Now being a professional and educated person, husband knows that there is something very wrong in this equation but he cannot get himself to make the right decision. Yes, it’s clear that they need relief from the $80K cards but what should they do at their age? Wife seems to be the clearer thinker of the two as she immediately sees the impossibility of keeping these cards. These cards have wiped out husband’s 401K which should not happen in the first place. A retirement account is for their retirement, not to pay minimum payments on credit cards. But when push comes to shove, this is what happens. Desperation sets in and a desperate person will even hold on to a sharp knife to keep afloat as the saying goes.

I explain to clients that Chapter 13 will allow them to pay off the $80K in 60 months, without interest, at the rate of about $1400 a month. The bankruptcy court protects their house from judgment liens from the credit cards and other bad guys as long as the bankruptcy is in place. Once they complete 60 payments, the court enters a discharge order that erases all of the credit card debts. By the time husband is 73 and wife is 71, they will owe nothing on these cards. First, the plan payment of $1400 is more than a thousand dollars less than $2500 a month just for minimum interest payments on the cards. Second, in 5 years, they paid $80K of principal and their balance owed is zero, whereas, without Chapter 13, in 5 years they will pay $150K

but in 5 years when he turns 73 and she turns 71, they will still owe the very same $80K that is weighing them down today. Wife can clearly see the benefit, so she will convince husband soon to get Chapter 13 relief.

In fact, Chapter 13 is superior to any other method to get rid of the $80K. One method is refinancing the house to pay for the $80K. But converting unsecured debt such as credit cards into secured debt using the house as collateral is risking the loss of your house for credit cards. Once husband stops to work, the higher mortgage payment caused by the refinance will become a very stressful burden and places the house at risk. This is something you don’t want at any age.

Next clients are more than twenty years younger than senior. Young clients are 43 and 42. I’m 44 but I stopped counting a long time ago so I know forties is way young. Forties are like new born babies. Together, husband and wife owe $40K. They don’t own a house and have two teenagers and one in the oven. They are very tight because only husband works and he grosses $4K a month. There’s really no money left for the luxury of paying for credit cards. No wonder the lawsuits have started. They were just served with summons and complaint to collect $5K. Needless to say, Chapter 7 will give them the necessary relief by wiping out all of the $40K. So, they decide to go for it immediately. It’s the right decision for the family.

“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,” declares the Lord, “because you are called and outcase, Zion for whom no one cares.” — Jeremiah 30:17

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

Our longing for peace

To Live With Faith reverend rodeL g. BALAgtAs THERE are many things happening in the world and in our lives today that trouble us. They are the constant killings of innocent people in many countries, the never-ending violence in cities, the unstoppable corruption in governments, and the division and differences among people in politics and religion.

They are the verbal attacks and anger of netizens on social media and the hypocrisy, indecency and lack of integrity of national leaders. They are our anxieties about personal health and the death of our beloved ones. They are the hard decisions that we have to make and the amount of work that we have to finish. Whatever these troubles are, they rob us of peace.

Yes, each one of us longs for peace—peace in our hearts; peace in our homes; peace in the world.

This is why the words and the images of the Old Testament Reading from the Book of Prophet Isaiah stir in us this earnest longing: “On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom...Then the wolf shall

be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them. The cow and the bear shall be neighbors, together their young shall rest; the lion shall eat hay like ox. The baby shall play by the cobra’s den, and the child lay his hand on the adder’s lair.”

The good news is that this immense longing for peace is God’s desire for all of us too. That’s why He sent us his Son, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace—the Promise of the Old Testament who came to bring reconciliation and hope to the whole world. His words and his life-death-and-resurrection would be the paths to peace, only if people would embrace and believe in them.

John the Baptist proclaimed this Good News in the Gospel this Sunday: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand…I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals.

He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

The Holy Spirit is like a bud that blossomed from the intensity of Jesus’ love for his Father and the Father’s love for him. It’s the Spirit that he left the Church so that justice and peace would reign in our hearts and in the

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,[c] because he will save his people from their sins.”

22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”[d] (which means “God with us”).

24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

A supernatural occurrence in the Blessed Virgin Mary’s life, a privilege to Joseph to be the earthly father—and the most generous gift of all times to all of us—mankind, from God the Father.

This Christmas, let’s not just remember fond memories. Let us share Jesus and His love for all of us to our loved ones, friends and neighbors. As this season is the season of giving, as the Father modeled it through Jesus.

How about giving someone in secret and expecting nothing in return — even a simple thank you? Surely that would be very special to the recipient, giving the person the reason to praise God all the more.

Thank you, Abba Father and thank you, Holy Spirit! You are worthy of our praise, hallelujah!

And all who agree say, Amen.

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) at 4:30 p.m. or call Pastor Emmanuel Madeja at (818) 813-3971; or at Praise Christian Fellowship, Los Angeles, 2235 Beverly Blvd. (corner Roselake/Rosemont) Los Angeles, CA 90057; 8:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. or call Pastor Courtney Hall (213) 484-8294.

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

by Henjie Pimenta

JUST about this time of the year when we were younger in San Andres Bukid (a.k.a. St. Andrews Field), kids around the block would gather up and start creating ‘do it yourself’ instruments.

Using recycled materials, such *** as flattened bottle crowns, a tamLawrence Bautista Yang specializes in bourine would be made. Empty bankruptcy, business, real estate and civil chocolate or milk powder cans were litigation and has successfully represented turned into drums with stretched Henjie Pimenta more than five thousand clients in California. balloons or a thick plastic with an Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) improvised drum stick with a rubber head tip for a 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S. better sounding percussion.

Fremont Ave, Mailstop 58, Building A-1 Suite Then, we would decide which songs we were go1125, Alhambra, CA 91803. ing to sing for door-to-door caroling. We practiced (Advertising Supplement) first before we headed to our direction. Our voices weren’t that spectacular but what we knew was that we were having fun. We would start not from our block but we would go farther. Some households would find us cute, others annoyed and some would pretend they didn’t hear anything. To the generous ones, we usually gave a good beautiful closing song. And for my ‘kababayans’ out there, who would forget going to church after caroling to attend ‘Simbang Gabi’ (midnight mass) then eat bibingka and puto bumbong afterward?

And for all of us here in America, celebrating Christmas during winter season is just as exhilarating.

With a chance to celebrate a white Christmas, it makes it extra special and fun for the whole family.

Kids would surely cherish family events like that.

Christmas is a big celebration for all who believe in Jesus Christ. God’s Son coming down from heaven to His people. Nothing gets better than that—the love of the Father for His people is His gift for all of us.

Matthew 1: 18-25 says--18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about[a]: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet[b] did fense, business law, and interna- not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had tional law. The collaboration and collective insight of the SKT attorneys enable them to view each case from various legal perspec- PAGE C3 t be administering (managing) the tives. SKT establishes bonds with ignate anyone as a beneficiary, trust after you pass away without their clients and provide quality with certain exceptions, of your a need to open a probate court work at an affordable cost. Its estate. case. This allows for continuity experienced attorneys have tackYou can structure your estate in operating the trust and effiled some of the toughest legal to minimize estate taxes cient cost effective distribution issues and are well-respected for If your estate is valued above the of estate assets. If you are contheir dedication, diligence, and estate tax exemption, establishing cerned about whether you can exceptional client results. a trust can allow you to divide up trust any family members as your SKT also provides legal coun- your estate into smaller sub trusts trustee, you can appoint an instisel in multiple languages to best to minimize the overall estate tax tution as a professional trustee serve its diverse clientele. effect on your estate. It allows to carry out the terms of the decTo reach an office, call 877- you to set up a vehicle for certain laration of trust. These type of 877-1-LAW, or email info@sul- charitable giving which carries tax trustee services are often offered livankrieger.com. by banks, financial institutions, advantage and asset protection.

Locations: You can choose who will ad- wealth management firms, and LONG BEACH minister your estate after your business management firms for a 444 W. Ocean Blvd. Ste. 1700 death reasonable fee. This minimizes Long Beach, CA 90274 When you establish a revocable conflicts within the family and Tel: +1 (562) 597-7070 trust, you can appoint someone prevents negligence and wrong Fax: + 1 (562) 597-7772 else as trustee or you can appoint doing by inexperienced family a successor trustee if you are the members.

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lawyer when contemplating travel or when experiencing other life-changes. *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila.

For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com.

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

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

An event like never before

Sullivan, Krieger, Truong, Spagnola, & Klausner, LLP THE United States immigration process is complicated and difficult. There are a multitude of immigration programs, each with its own set of requirements and procedures. Families struggle to determine the appropriate visa, the length of the process, and a flurry of other questions that accompany the decision to immigrate. Without proper guidance, you may face repeated delays and a potential denial. It is not going to be easy, but consulting the right legal experts may be the key to success.

The outstanding international team of attorneys and paralegals at Sullivan, Krieger, Truong, Spagnola, & Klausner, LLP (SKT) can navigate you through the complex United States immigration system. They will help you select the best visa – suited to your personal circumstances – and guide you through all the steps. SKT can transform a complicated process into a simple experience for its clients.

SKT has offices in Long Beach,

world. It’s the Spirit that would calm our fears, strengthen our hearts, and grant us wisdom and understanding.

But how do we get hold of His Spirit? God’s response would be by a life of faith and prayer; through our daily acts of letting go of our anxieties and fears; and through surrendering of ourselves and the worldly matters to His reign and power in our lives.

The reason we don’t feel peace is because we have not completely entrusted our lives and all our concerns to God. This takes a great deal of faith and contemplation on the mighty love and care of God for each of us. The reason we don’t have peace is because of inflated egos and selfworship.

During this season of Advent, may we all long for peace that life in the Holy Spirit can give us! ***

Five benefits of establishing a revocable…

California; Irvine, California; Manila, Philippines; and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Each of SKT’s international offices is staffed with licensed attorneys, which allows their clients convenient access to legal advice.

SKT is a firm with extensive experience with the EB-5 Immigration Investor Program. Under the EB-5 Program, foreign investors and their families can apply for green cards, allowing them to live and work in the United States and travel internationally, through an investment in an existing or new business in the United States and the creation of 10 permanent, full-time jobs.

Once the EB-5 petition is approved, an individual can immediately begin the process to obtain a two-year conditional green card, which can later be converted to a full-fledged green card. The EB-5 Program is an especially great option for Filipinos as there is currently no wait time for Filipino nationals. Given the lengthy backlogs of other green card categories for Filipino nationals, the EB-5 program is a popular alternative.

The process is intensive, but SKT’s exceptional team of immigration specialists has the expertise to achieve success. They have a 100 percent approval rate with EB-5 related petitions.

Aside from immigration, SKT is a full-service law firm with attorneys who are uniquely qualified to advise clients with regards to all areas of law, including civil litigation, family law, criminal de-

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

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

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Aurora Inter-organizational Alliance-USA celebrates 8th anniversary in Granada Hills, CA

AURORA Inter-organizational Alliance-USA announces its 8th anniversary celebration on Saturday, December 10 in Granada Hills, CA. It is an annual gathering of immigrants from the Aurora province’s 8 towns, aiming to further strengthen the camaraderie and spirit of the members.

This year’s celebration hopes to gather 100 members and guests, who will be treated with traditional Filipino dishes as well as entertainment

amid the sounds of Christmas carols. The night will be capped by the election of new officers for the new year.

The event will be held at the Granada Hills Pavilion at 11128 Balboa Blvd., Granada Hills, CA 91344 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, please contact Atty Al Nabor at (951) 818-8172 or Luchie Cuento at (818) 300-3212. n

AAPA Graduation Gala ASIAN American Professional Association (AAPA) cordially invites you to the Graduation Gala on Monday, December 5 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Celebrate with AAPA mentor and mentees and learn about the organization’s impact in the com-

munity. Mr. Anthony Hong, vice president of clinical research and development of Johnson & Johnson Cardiovascular & Specialty Solutions will be the keynote speaker of the night.

It will be held at DoubleTree

by Hilton - Rosemead at 888

Montebello Blvd., Rosemead, CA 91770. The event is business casual/cocktail attire and is open to everyone. Complimentary for mentors and mentees. Guests at $25. Please RSVP and purchase tickets by November 28 at www. aapa.abcptsa.org. n

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EMPLOYMENT

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 3-6, 2016

EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT

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C DECEMBER 3-6, 2016 • LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL

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LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DEcEmbER 3-6, 2016

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Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ AfTER Donald Trump was elected president of the United States, many people became fearful, anxious, and nervous about their future in America. After all, he started his campaign by stating he wanted to deport ALL of the approximate 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S. He recently modified that position, by stating he wants to first start with immediately deporting the approximate 3 million undocumented immigrants who are felons, terrorists, and “bad people.” As for the remainder of the undocumented immigrants, he still has to decide what to do.

He has also brought in as advisers some very hard-liners on immigration reform. Some of these people helped draft some of the harshest immigration laws across the country. Those same immigration hard-liners will be advising him on proposed new immigration laws.

Some people are worried that there may now suddenly be a “knock on the door”, by Homeland Security officers, with guns

&

What to expect from President PH faces less risk from Trump Trump on his immigration plan agcaoiLi Philstar.com

and badges, “arresting” them at their home or work, and taking them directly to the airport, because of some minor crime they committed years ago, or they may have been ordered deported in the past.

While it remains to be seen how Trump and the Republicancontrolled Congress will deal with immigration reform, here are some of my thoughts (which are merely my opinions, and not established fact, and may not come to pass.): 1. Build a wall: I think Trump will attempt to build some kind of fence or wall along the Mexican border, both to keep his campaign promise, and to stop the flow of people across the border, just in case he may later decide to have comprehensive immigration reform. Last year, tens of thousands of people poured across the border from Central America, and Obama was trying to deport them as quickly as possible. If there will ever be some form of immigration reform, I think the lawmakers don’t want hundreds of thousands of people pouring in to the U.S. in anticipation of

Coca Cola commits $1-B investments

with President Rodrigo Duterte on the sideline of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting MANILA - Coca Cola femsa held in Lima last month. remains committed to grow its Coca-Cola femsa, a Mexicobusiness in the Philippines under based company, plans to invest the Duterte administration. $200 million annually or a total of Trade Secretary Ramon Lo- $1 billion over the next five years pez said he met with Coca Cola in its Philippine operations. femsa director general and CEO “Gearing towards long-term John Santa Maria and the bever- investment and placing strong age giant official assured the investor confidence in the Duterte company’s continued investment administration, Coca-Cola femsa’s in the country. capital infusion will go towards Santa Maria had previously met PAGE D2 by richmond

mercurio Philstar.com

RCBC: No plans to pay $81-M to Bangladesh Bank agcaoiLi Philstar.com

MANILA – Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) is not shelling out a single centavo to pay the Bangladesh Bank over the $81 million cyber heist that happened in february.

Lawyer Thea Daep, external legal counsel of RCBC, said the bank is not liable to pay Bangladesh Bank for its funds at the New York federal Reserve that were stolen by hackers.

“RCBC has no plans to pay Bangladesh Bank any amount,” Daep said.

RCBC was the recipient of the funds that went through three layers of highly protected financial institutions: the New York federal Reserve, SWIfT and the three global banks that eventually made the remittance.

“RCBC is not the proximate cause of the theft. They have no case against us. Bangladesh Bank was the one who was negligent.

We, therefore, urge Bangladesh Bank to be transparent to the Philippine government which has done so much to help them and show us who really stole from them,” she added.

According to Daep, Bangla-

mented by the Trump administration is not uniform across Asia. “InMANILA – British banking gi- donesia, the Philippines and India ant HSBC said the Philippines is are likely to be more shielded from one of the few countries in Asia the Trump effect given their low Pacific likely to be less affected by debt and low export exposures. By the shocking victory of Republican contrast, Malaysia, China, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand should be Donald Trump in the U.S. HSBC Asia economics research more affected,” he said.

Neumann said the Bank of Jahead frederic Neumann said the impact of the uncertainty brought pan is emerging as a winner with about by the policies to be implePAGE D2

by Lawrence

Coca-Cola Femsa, a Mexico-based company, plans to invest $200 million annually or a total of $1 billion over the next five years in its Philippine operations.

by Lawrence

D

desh Ambassador John Gomes has been unfairly using media to pressure the Philippine government and make it its own collection agent, and in the process, is creating an undue and unnecessary adverse public portrayal of RCBC and by extension, the local banking sector.

“Numerous reports quoting high Bangladeshi officials and the initial findings of Bangladesh Bank’s own investigation indicated the heist got help from Bangladesh Bank insiders. Shortly after, Bangladesh Bank decided to abort its investigation which raises a lot of questions, to say the least,” she said.

Daep challenged Bangladesh Bank to produce the results of its own investigation, even the initial ones, to help shed light on who the perpetrators were.

She said the results of the investigation of Bangladesh Bank would be critical in helping the global banking sector protect itself.

“This is the least Bangladesh Bank can do,” Daep said, adding Gomes has blamed everybody but itself for its loss.

Meanwhile, RCBC reported PAGE D2

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

- Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Psychology professor and author

such immigration reform. So they want a wall first.

2. Deporting the felons: I believe he will move forward on his pledge to deport the “bad guys” as quickly as possible.

These would include convicted felons, terrorists, etc. I hope it would not include people with old “in absentia” removal orders.

I would also hope he would leave in place prosecutorial discretion, allowing ICE to focus on these bad people, but leaving the “low priority” undocumented alone for now.

3. Convert DACA into the Dream Act: Pres. Obama brought about Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) by “executive action,” after Congress did not pass the Dream Act. But if you think about it, DACA and the Dream Act are similar, in the sense that both address the issue of allowing young people who were brought to the U.S. at an early age to remain in America.

Trump’s opposition to DACA was that it was brought about through executive action, rather than congressional legislation.

He seems to have no problem

if these measures are brought about by way of laws passed

by Congress. Therefore, if the Republican-controlled Congress will pass the Dream Act, it would not be “executive action”, and may even be politically expedient for the Republicans to gain favor with the Latino community, as they would definitely benefit by the enactment of the Dream Act in lieu of DACA. 4. Eliminating the 3/10 year bar and bringing back Section 245(i): One of the main impediments to people being able to legalize their status is that they are not eligible to do so in the U.S., and if they depart the U.S. to process their immigrant visa at the embassy in their home country, they could be banned for 10 years. If he eliminates the 10 year bar, it would be easier for people to consular process.

Moreover, if he brings back Section 245(i), and has people pay a fine or penalty of perhaps $5000 so they don’t have to travel back to their home country, he could make billions for Homeland Security.

PAGE D3

HSBC Asia economics research head Frederic Neumann said the impact of the uncertainty brought about by the policies to be implemented by the Trump administration is not uniform across Asia. “Indonesia, the Philippines and India are likely to be more shielded from the Trump effect given their low debt and low export exposures. By contrast, Malaysia, China, Korea, Taiwan and Thailand should be more affected,” he said.

D december 3-6, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

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Mildred Smith of Seafood City (left) and Joanne Rivera, PNB Remittance Centers Inc. (right) got together to make this season truly special for many “kababayans.”

HIGH-LEVEL BANGLADESH DELEGATION CALL ON SENATE PRESIDENT PIMENTEL. Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel (7th from left) received a token from a high-level delegation from the People’s Republic of Bangladesh led by Anisul Huq (7th from right), Minister of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. The delegation thanked the Senate of the Philippines for conducting public hearings to help hasten the recovery of USD 81 million allegedly laundered in the Philippines from the Bangladesh Bank.

Senate photo by Albert Calvelo

RCBC: No plans to pay...

PAGE D1 yesterday the bank’s group head of legal and regulatory affairs and corporate secretary Maria Cecilia Fernandez-Estavillo has tendered her resignation effective Dec. 31.

The bank informed the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) that Estavillo, who was a key figure during the cyber theft probe conducted by the Senate, is set “to pursue other endeavors.”

Lawyer George Gilbert dela Cuesta was appointed as deputy group head of legal and regulatory affairs with a rank of first senior vice president effective yesterday.

He will head the group effective Jan. 1 next year.

Likewise, RCBC head of retail banking group Lizette Margaret Mary Racela also tendered her resignation effective Nov. 30 to

pursue other endeavors. Jonathan Diokno is set to take over the position effective Jan. 16 next year.

Estavillo is the third highranking officials who resigned from the bank since the money laundering issue erupted. Other officials who resigned from the bank include president and CEO Lorenzo Tan as well as treasurer Raul Victor Tan. Last Nov. 18, the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) sued the former treasurer and five other officers and employees of RCBC. Aside from Tan charged before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for violating Republic Act 9160 or the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 were national sales director Ismael Reyes, regional sales director Brigette Capiña, district sales

director Nestor Pineda, customer service head Romualdo Agarrado and RCBC senior customer relations officer Angela Ruth Torres.

The former RCBC president and CEO was not included in the charge sheet.

The AMLC has already filed money laundering charges against RCBC Jupiter branch manager Maia Santos-Deguito and the four fictitious account holders last March 15 and against casino junket operators and agents Kim Wong and Weikang Xu last March 22.

Wong has turned over $15 million worth of funds abandoned by casino players to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). The amount has been returned to the Bangladesh Bank.

Furthermore, AMLC has also sued officers of Philrem include Michael and Salud Bautista as well as Anthony Pelejo.

PNB Global Remit and Seafood City’s partnership makes Christmas very merry

PNB Global Remit and Seafood City are excited to announce a new partnership benefiting all Suki members and PNB Global Remit customers.

From Dec. 1 to Dec. 31, for every dollar spent inside your Seafood City neighborhood supermarket, you can earn points

and redeem for discounted fees from your remittances until the end of the year.

Even more exciting news, PNB Global Remit customers can rack up on their points when they choose to send their remittances at participating locations. For every $1 spent on

fees, you can earn 10 points* for a maximum of 100 points each time you send money to your loved ones this holiday season. Check out this promo and make the season truly bright for you and your loved ones.

(Advertising Supplement)

PH gov’t to generate 7.2-M jobs in 6 years

by Raadee

S. SauSa Manilatimes.net

“The government is open to 1.2 million jobs a year. That’s 7.2 million THE government said on Thurs- in the next six years,” Labor Secreday, Dec. 1 intends to generate 7.2 tary Silvestro Bello III said during million jobs within the next six the Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan years by filling in 1.2 million jobs (TNK) Summit in Taguig City.

For his part, Labor Undersecrea year in the construction, manufacturing and business process tary Dominador Say noted 1.2 million jobs a year could be achieved outsourcing industries.

Another sector the government with the construction, manufacturis eyeing is aeronautics, according ing, aeronautics and information technology-business processing to Labor officials. outsourcing IT-BPO as the main drivers.

“We coordinate with other government and private industries if there are jobs available. So, we encourage OFWs [overseas Filipino workers]to just work here instead,” he said.

Earlier, Ruth Castelo of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines noted the industry has been eyed as a top contributor to the government’s employment program.

The industry intends to raise its share to the gross domestic product (GDP) in the coming years.

“The current state of the construction industry is a boom. The industry contributes 3.3 percent to the GDP, but we want to increase it to 7 percent beginning 2017,” Castelo said.

On the other hand, the manufacturing industry grew by 6.9 percent in the third quarter of 2016, up 5.8 percent a year earlier.

The Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines sees the IT-BPM sector generating up to $39 billion in revenue by 2022.

The summit is wrapping up policy recommendations from previous sectoral summits to chart a new employment agenda in line with the administration’s development goal.

The previous events included the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Summit, the Manufacturing Summit, the Construction Congress and the IT-BPM Conference.

“We want to identify the strategies to increase employment levels, improve access to employment opportunities, and address our skills requirement,” said Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez.

The government, through the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Labor and Employment, gathered the public and private sectors and members of the academe to develop a national employment program to support the National Development and Security Strategy of the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022.

The Trade chief encouraged the various industries to invest in jobgenerating activities in the tourism, construction, manufacturing, ITBPM, and retail trade sectors.

The government said on Thursday, Dec. 1 intends to generate 7.2 million jobs within the next six years by filling in 1.2 million jobs a year in the construction, manufacturing and business process outsourcing industries.

Coca Cola commits...

PAGE D1 expanding and strengthening the company’s supply chain and commercial footprint throughout the country, therefore generating substantial employment and creating more micro-business opportunities,” Lopez said.

“Objectives of this new commitment are in line with the government’s poverty alleviation and inclusive growth agenda,” he added.

Last year, Coca-Cola group president for Asia Pacific Atul Singh announced the beverage giant would be investing $1.2 billion up to 2020 to expand its facilities and beef up distribution and operations in the country.

Singh said Coca-Cola has already invested $1.5 billion in the

Philippines from 2010 to 2014.

He said the investment enhanced its distribution network and created over 2,000 new jobs for Filipinos.

The investment has also led to the expansion of the Coca-Cola Canlubang plant, increase in production of its Misamis Oriental plant, the rehabilitation of its plant in Tacloban, and the purchase of a manufacturing plant in Davao del Sur from San Miguel Corp.

Coca-Cola has 19 plants in the Philippines and competes in seven different beverage categories locally.

Trade Undesecretary Nora Terrado said the Coca Cola officials are in the country this week “to see what is happening in the Philippines.”

PH faces less risk...

PAGE D1 a weaker yen.

“In sum, 2017 looks like it’ll be the most difficult for the region since 2009. It’s not, of course, entirely the president-elect’s fault – his administration, after all, hasn’t even outlined a detailed policy agenda yet, let alone taken the reins of power. Plus, Asia’s travails are partly self-inflicted,” Neumann said.

Neumann said, the Trump administration could adopt a more protectionist stance as he vowed to shelve the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement.

Likewise, HSBC sees the U.S. Federal Reserves hiking rates three times next year.

“This amounts to a stiff headwind for Asian economies that have come to rely on rapid credit growth to sustain demand in recent years,” he said.

The economist also cited the continued weakening of the regional currencies against the dollar

due to the impending interest rate increase.

“Currency moves are compounding the effect. While exchange rate depreciation should, in principle, provide a boost to Asian exports, the resulting tightening in financial conditions (higher rates) could more than offset the loosening of monetary conditions (weaker exchange rates,” he said.

Debt watchers Fitch Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service earlier said the policy pronouncements of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump raises global uncertainties affecting trading partners including the Philippines.

Fitch said the shocking victory of Trump would have global ramnifications.

“The U.S. is the world’s largest economy and its pre-eminent diplomatic and military power.

Uncertainty over future U.S. policy automatically creates uncertainty for many Fitch-rated sovereigns, to varying degrees,” it said.

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PH gov’t sets up P1-B fund to kill ‘5-6’

by Richmond

meRcuRio Philstar.com

MANILA - In a move to kill the “5-6” money lending system in the country, the government is making available starting next year an initial P1 billion funding for micro and small enterprises.

The P1 billion fund is part of a planned P19 billion financing which the government wants to provide the country’s micro and small businesses in the coming years.

“We are trying to remove and kill the ‘5-6’ industry. We are replacing this with an alternative micro funding. So far we are able to set aside P1 billion new funds. It’s a project of President Duterte to really provide startup funds for the micro entrepreneurs,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said.

President Duterte had earlier warned that loan sharks or those lending money under the 5-6 scheme would not be allowed to operate under his administration.

“As a replacement to 5-6, everything will be the same (in this program) except for the 5-6.

In everything I mean accessibility, no collateral, ease of getting the funding, and of course we have to make sure collection will be undertaken so we will have to make use of existing, tried and tested micro financing institutions to partner with us and to implement this project with,” Lopez said.

The Trade chief stressed the program, which would be called “Pondo Para sa Pagbabago at Pagasenso,” would also offer lower interest rates than the 20 percent under the current 5-6 scheme.

Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez

Lopez said about five or six established microfinance institutions are being eyed to be part of the program.

He said through the help of these established microfinance institutions, the government fund would be accessed even by the smallest of entrepreneurs across the country.

“That budget will go to a wholesale fund group, it may be SB Corp., and then that wholesale fund will now be lent to about five to six micro finance institutions for eventual retailing. So the government conceptualizes the program and we make them operate and implement it, just like a franchise,” Lopez explained.

Lopez, however, said the P1 billion fund for next year is just a start, as the government is eyeing to allot P1 billion per region or a total P18 billion in the succeeding years.

“If the initial P1 billion goes well, the idea is to make it P1 billion per region. So maybe in the next budget season that is the what we will request, P18 billion just for funding. But that’s down the road. Initially, we will have to slowly see the market demand,” he said.

Lopez said the P1 billion funding for next year would come from the Office of the President and not from the Department of Trade and Industry’s budget.

What to expect from President...

PAGE D1 Let’s not forget that Trump was the author of the best-selling book, “The Art of the Deal”, which involves give and take, negotiations and compromises in order to make deals. This shows that while he may take a particular position at the outset, he may be willing to change his position. And that attitude may be far better than other people, who once they take a position, refuse to change it.

As a businessman, he may be willing to negotiate and change

his positions when it comes to immigration reform.

And finally, now, more than ever, it may be a good idea to make sure you have an attorney representing or readily available to you, with these massive anticipated changes to the immigration landscape. An attorney can help navigate you through these dangerous waters. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

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

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

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DEcEmbER 3-6, 2016 D

Longo Lexus offers the ultimate conveniences in customer amenities

We all know that the process of buying a car is not just as simple as buying a new pair of shoes at the mall. It is a long process that involves careful comparison between vehicle models, reviewing the car’s specifications with regards to the needs of the buyer, and of course, the negotiations for the financing packages and promos.

As such, it is very important for Longo Lexus that its customers are supremely comfortable and well-pampered if they are going to make that important decision of which Lexus they will drive home.

As a car dealership, there are many reasons why Longo Lexus has been an elite of Lexus dealer since 1992. One of those reasons includes the ultimate conveniences that they offer in customer amenities. As one of the leading Lexus car dealerships, Longo Lexus provides not only pre-sales conveniences, but also noteworthy post-sales services.

Longo Lexus is known for the unique amenities that they offer to dealership customers.

One of those unique amenities include an on-site Auto Club of Southern California (AAA) center. The AAA branch offers DMV services, airline, car, and hotel reservations, discounted movie and local attraction tickets, AAA membership application processing, OnBoard Teen Safe Driver Program, auto and home insurance, and more. Sign up at our AAA branch in Longo, and you’ll receive a special $13 discount off the original membership price.

Aside from from the on-site AAA branch, Longo is also the first dealership in the US to offer Verizon Wireless and Verizon Wireless Neighborhood services on-site. Offering the latest technologies in telecommunications, mobile accessories, and services, Longo’s on-site Verizon branch makes it even more convenient for customers to stay connected with the world. Our Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer is open from Monday to Friday, 7am-7pm; Saturday, from 7am to 5:30pm; and Sunday, from 8am to 4pm. Please call (888) 8115201.

While waiting for your car to come out of our premium carcare service lines or while you’re going through our wide inventory of luxurious Lexus vehicles, you can enjoy a quick bite at Sub-

way or a nice refreshing drink at Starbucks.

If you want to pamper your car, you can also shop at the Longo Lexus Parts Boutique, which carries a wide selection of genuine Lexus parts and accessories for your vehicle. M`Zkfi I\p\j With over 31,000 parts and accessories in stock, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

The after-sales services of a dealership is just as important as the pre-sales amenities. And it these after-sales services that make buying a vehicle at Longo Lexus a truly rewarding experience.

We offer complimentary loaner vehicles for your use while your car is in our service center. For inquiries, on our loaners, please call our coordinators at 1-800-5970813.

For your convenience, we also offer complimentary shuttle service to take you to your office, home, or even the mall—basically anywhere within a 15-mile radius—while your vehicle is being serviced.

If you don’t have time to make the drive to our dealership, our Longo Lexus Mobile Service Van and Truck can provide routine maintenance services, such as oil changes and tire rotations, right at your home or office. Appointments can be made up to 6 months in advance.

Similarly, if your service requirements need the car to be physically present at our Longo service center, we offer complimentary flatbed truck pick-up and delivery of your vehicle to and from our dealership. Our Longo Lexus Mobile Service Van and Truck, and our complimentary flatbed truch pick-up and delivery service are exclusively for cars that are purchased from Longo Lexus, and are located within 60mile radius from Longo.

Please call 1-800-597-0813 to schedule your appointment.

Also, for every service appointment, each vehicle receives a complimentary car wash in our Longo Lexus Car Spa. For our clients who wish to use other cars, aside from those among our fleet of loaner Lexus cars, they can avail of the services of our enterprise Rent-A-Car offices.

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With two branches on the Longo Premises, enterprise is ready to address all your car rental needs.

Please call (800) 969-6519 for more information.

We understand that life’s daily grind requires our customers to be always on top of everything while keeping up with an onthe-go lifestyle. Which is they are more than welcome to work at our Longo Business Center where they can work on our computer terminals, free of charge.

We also offer complimentary Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) to our customers throughout the facility. This is particularly useful for our customers with mobile devices, laptops, and tablets.

While you wait for your car to come out of our service center, your kids can enjoy and have a good time at our Children Play Area, where we offer video games and other activities for the young ones.

Longo Lexus customers will also be offered complimentary use of our iPads while they are waiting for their vehicle.

For more information on our Longo Lexus Guest Services, please log on to www.longolexus.com/GuestAmenities or call (626) 539-2956.

Longo Lexus is located at 3530 North Peck Road, el Monte, CA 91731.

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D december 3-6, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

Marketplace & ShowrooM

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

Get heating and AC service that cares from Air Care Savers Pictured are participants of the recent mini workshop seminar on “Make It Easy Tom Import The Right Way” attended by diverse demographics including actual U.S. importers and buyers, trade entrepreneurs, logistic companies, and overseas suppliers and manufacturers from the Philippines, Japan, China, Africa, Latin America, Pakistan and Russia. The seminar was not only a learning and workshop session but an opportune time of meeting and interchange of trade commerce among the seminarians.

Photos by Mike Mandapat

Simplified and Constructive Workshop on Customs ACE Environment

by Dan

E. nino

Long Beach – In a continuing saga to empower grass root importers and exporters, e.c. Ferrer custom house Broker, Inc. hosted a free seminar to educate producers, manufacturers and distributors from various demographics for their products to reach their destinations in the United States and other countries with ease and without impediments.

Resource speakers, who are experts in their fields in facilitating the inflow and outflow of goods, discussed before an audience of close to 100 participants at the Marriott hotel-Long Beach. The seminar was formally opened with welcome remarks by artesia Fil-am Mayor Victor Manalo and Mayor Pro-Tem ali Taj which in turn presented a plaque of recognition to sponsoring ceo and host eddie c.

Ferrer and Felix B. Lopez, president of Fil-am chamber of commerce in Southeast Los angeles.

The first resource speaker Jackie M. Ferrer, the general manager of e.c. Ferrer chB, Inc. provided pointers to fast track clearance of

Past president of PBUSA (Pangasinan Brotherhood-USA) , Eddie Ferrer, receiving a certificate of recognition for his outstanding work alongside PBUSA for the community of the City ofArtesia. The award is being presented to him by the mayor of the city of Artesia, Victor Manalo (left) and the Mayor Pro Tem of the city of Artesia (right), Ali Sajjad Taj.

goods from the U.S. customs by “knowing your products well and their classifications, know your suppliers and manufacturers, know the preferential and free trade agreements among nations and be familiar with customs regulations.”

She emphasized, ”Knowledge is the key and knowledge is power.”

Marilu henderson, Import Specialist of e. c. Ferrer chB, Inc. talked about the importance of providing the Power of attorney to facilitate the entry processing and clearance of the import goods with customs. and, she further explained the importance of a surety bond as required and mandated by customs along side the entry processing. Surety bond maybe on a single entry ( per shipment basis) or a continuous bond ( per annum application).

Kevin Ricciotti of avalon Risk Management discussed fully the importance of cargo Insurance via a dynamic power point illustration on the tragic repercussions in the shipping of goods without cargo insurance. This was an eye opener that drew a lot of attention and participation by the attendees during the Q&a (Question & answer) segment of the workshop. al Wang president of consolidated Service Limited with headquarters in Taiwan profoundly spoke about c-TPaT (Partnership with customs against Terrorism) based on his one on one live experience with customs Personnel validating the c-TPaT certification of a U.S. Importer. he shared this validation process coming from the origin point of exportation particularly what U.S. customs is looking for on security risk assessment.

Junn gabrillo, Import Specialist of e.c. Ferrer chB summarized the whole custom brokerage system from start to finish highlighting

various forms and documents used in facilitating cargoes to be cleared

by U.S. customs. he said that in partnership with U.S. custom, his company adheres to the automatic commercial environment (ace) in processing the clearance of goods.

The standard documents used are arrival notice with ISF (Import Security Filing), Bill of Lading/air Way Bill, commercial Invoice and Packing List. he emphasized to follow the time-honored working ethics of adhering to “due diligence or reasonable care” Last speaker eddie c. Ferrer summed up various aspects of the industry and recent rules of engagements under the new customs’s ace one Window environment portal where other partnered government agencies are linked in. he said, the ace system will facilitate legitimate trade while enhancing border safety, improve collection, sharing and processing of information submitted to custom Border Protection and various federal agencies.

Mr. Ferrer also talked about trade relations and trade agreements with other countries like Preferential Trade agreement (PTa) general System of Preference (gSP), national association of Free Trade agreement (naFTa), copyrights, U.S. patents, guarding against infringements, trademarks, among others.

Three staff from the provincial capitol of Pangasinan and Mayor Bogs Resuello of San carlos city also attended the seminar as part of the provincial government’s initiative to spur economic growth of the province. They include atty.

Verna T. nava Perez –Sangguniang Panlalawigan Secretary, Malu elduayan – Provincial Tourism Director, and Benita M. Pizarro – Provinical Planning and Development office coordinator.

TODAY, weather patterns happen in extremes. Scientists have warned that wherever you are, people can expect hotter summers and colder winters.

Because of this, ensuring the comfort of your home becomes central to you and your family’s health.

To relieve yourself from the discomfort of severe weather changes, what you need is a dependable heating ventilation and air-condition (HVAC) system and a provider that will help it adapt as the season changes.

Filipino-owned Air Care Saver has a team of highlytrained professionals who offer heating and air conditioning repairs, new installations, heat pumps, air handlers, AC and Furnace tune-ups, duct work, indoor air quality, ventilation and maintenance for residential customers.

The company provides HVAC system repair, maintenance, and installation throughout the West Covina, San Gabriel Valley, Orange Country, Inland Empire and Los Angeles areas.

From ductless mini splits to zoning system to Wi-Fi digital thermostats, hospital grade filtration and UV germicidal lights—all services are covered to match any of the client’s needs. Installations of duct work systems, whole house fans, and cool ventilations are also included in many of their versatile services.

To ensure and protect each client’s property, clean-cut technicians go through an intensive

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background check. Estimations for a new home comfort system are offered for free with full benefits. Schedules are always met and Air Care Saver makes sure that they arrive at an appointment on time.

“We treat your home like our home,” said Ralph Ayers, one of Air Care Savers co-owners. “We offer service that cares.”

He said his staff is considerate of every client’s needs, questions and budget.

Air Care Savers participates in

government financing programs that can help homeowners afford a wide variety of home improvement repairs.

Winter time or summer time, Air Care Savers will ensure the maximum efficiency of your heating and air conditioning systems.

For questions, or to schedule an inspection in or service dial (800)-847-0877. Assistance available in English, Tagalog, Spanish, and Chinese.

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Showroom

LA WEEKEND ASIAN JOURNAL • DEcEmbER 3-6, 2016 D

8 road etiquette every new car owner should know by heart With a brand new car (or even a pre-owned one) comes great responsibility

by Mark

Ferdinand Canoy & Vida LaCano Inquirer.net

thESE days, owning a car is easy. But having one does not equate to making your own rules on the road. You also have the responsibility to make sure other motorists, pedestrians, and even yourself are kept safe on the road when you’re out driving. So, whether you’re the driver or the passenger, it is imperative that you follow these simple road etiquette for a safe drive, for you, your passengers, and for your shiny new baby.

1.) Use your high beam headlamps only when it is absolutely necessary high beam (also known as driving or full beam) headlamps, when turned on, give out intense, centerweighted lighting with glare that

could temporarily deprive drivers of their sight. Use it only when you’re alone on the road, or during long drives in places that are not well lit and have limited road visibility.

2.) Use signals Ladies and gentlemen: here’s the thing, your fellow drivers are not mind readers. they won’t know whether you’re turning left or right unless you tell them so, so please, PLEASE, make it a habit to use your turn signals. It’s as simple as flicking the lever that operates this, which is located on the left side of your steering wheel. this simple act also pays courtesy to pedestrians and other motorists; it tells them that you are aware of their presence and that you

Buying a brand-new car? Read this first

by Conrad

M. Cariño ManilaTimes.net

A motor vehicle could be the second-biggest expense an individual would ever incur after a house. So a brand-new car purchase should be carefully studied especially if it is bought on financing, which actually increases the overall cost of the vehicle.

Also, the reality is that a new car never appreciates in value. In fact, some 10% of its value immediately goes out of the window the moment you drive it out of the dealership.

And then, after five years or so, its value plunges to between 40% and 60%, and that’s based on its sticker price which does not include financing charges. Factor in financing charges and the value of a vehicle would be the equivalent of just 25% to 40% of its sticker price after said period.

But then, a brand-new car is still a must among motorists because it is assumed to be generally troublefree compared to secondhand vehicles, at least for the first five years of ownership. many motorists also do not know how to tinker with a vehicle, and so a brand-new car is what suits them. on the other hand, gearheads have little fear of buying a pre-owned unit because they know what to do to give it hasslefree service for many years.

If you belong to the first group, allow us to share 10 tips to guide you when buying a new car.

1. Select which type of vehicle you want. You just can’t go into a car dealership not knowing which vehicle to buy, and not all sales representatives will know what you specifically need. It’s hard to end up buying a midsize SUV, for instance, when all you need is a subcompact sedan. Consider these factors when choosing a vehicle type: number of seats; parking space in your house or area; diesel or gasoline; 2WD or 4WD. the number of seats is important because in the Philippines, strolling in the city or out of town is usually an extended-family event. Also, consider the other uses for your vehicle, like using it for hauling duties for a business you may own and operate. on the other hand, buying a van that can seat as much as 12 people is not appropriate if you intend to drive alone most of time.

2. Set a firm budget. After deciding the type of vehicle to buy, determine a fixed budget, including the down payment and the full price. Choose from a wide range of variants so you can decide which one fits your financial standing.

When buying a new vehicle on financing, set the maximum amount you are willing to pay every month. many new-car shoppers become victims of impulse buying, driving home with the big-ticket purchase even without having the resources to shell out for the monthly installments. In the end, they find themselves watching helplessly as bank agents repossess the car.

Also, remember that there are other costs to consider when owning a brand-new vehicle, like insurance and maintenance.

3. Study all brand choices. once you have decided which type of vehicle to buy—SUV, pickup, sedan, hatchback, van or mPV—it is best to study what the different brands have to offer. Gone are the days when South Korean cars were

considered inferior to Japanese ones, and the Americans can no longer claim to be the best builders of SUVs in the world. Find out which brands have the best aftersales service, and which ones have high resale values for their models.

Even the smallest things can spell the difference between an awesome ownership experience and a disaster.

4. Automatic or manual transmission. making a choice whether to buy an At or mt vehicle is of paramount importance. Although there remains a significant price difference between an At car and an mt one, the convenience of driving a clutchless car in traffic or even along the highways is too good to resist. on the other hand, there are motorists who prefer the driving excitement afforded by a vehicle with a stick shift.

5. Narrow down color choices.

Decide on the paint job you want for your brand-new vehicle. Some owners choose a lighter color because it makes a vehicle more visible at night or daytime. then there are those who want dark hues because these look a little bit cleaner compared to light shades if dust or dirt sticks to the car’s body.

6. Get the best offer. With so much competition, carmakers are trying to outdo each other in attracting potential buyers. And that is good for car buyers. So go shopping for a vehicle and visit all dealers near your area, and study the deals they are giving to you including financing packages. Getting the best financing package can save you thousands of pesos in monthly amortization. Also consider the freebies dealers and brands are offering. And we mean the ones that truly matter—like 24/7 free towing service or roadside assistance, and not just floor mats.

7. Choose the best dealership.

Although it is hard to find fault among car dealers today because the intense competition is forcing them to be on their toes, there are dealers that provide better lounge areas and parking space, and have more service bays. Also, consider the location of the dealership. one that is far away from your residence may prove to be a hassle especially with today’s worsening traffic situation.

8. research and research more. there are tons and tons of information on new cars available. You just have to know where to look; you can start with credible car websites and trustworthy forums. Do not just rely on the official websites of the car brands. Search for independent car reviews and join discussion threads with fellow consumers.

9. Ask around. While the Internet can provide a lot of information on brand-new cars, it is also best to interview friends, colleagues or acquaintances who own the vehicle you are planning to buy. Ask important questions about fuel economy, maintenance cost, reliability, drivability, ride and comfort, among others. Nothing beats actual realworld experience.

10. Know the cost of maintenance. Although this is the last item on our list of tips, this does not mean it is the least important.

In fact, knowing the cost of maintenance of involved in owning a new vehicle should be among the top considerations of buyers.

want to alert them of your next move so as to avoid any untoward incidences.

3.) Put a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you You know it’s a serious thing when something already involves science. Did you know that humans havereaction time, or speed with which a person can respond to a certain stimulus? Whenever a person responds to a stimulus—an event that could be seen, felt, or heard—he or she goes through a reaction time. Scientists have found out that people have varied reaction time to various stimuli.

An event such as a car abruptly stopping in front of you will have different reaction times depending on the age, alertness, and even gender of a person. this is why we apply a 3-second rule to driving. this simple method allows you to drive at a safe distance away from the vehicle in front of you. to check this, watch the vehicle in front of you pass a signpost or building then count the time it takes for you to reach that landmark. If you

count less than 3, you’re too close and may need to back off a little. reaction times are greatly affected by whether the driver is alert to the need to brake. You might think you have lightning-quick reflexes but the truth is, sometimes your brain may not be able to respond fast enough to allow yourself time to slam on the brakes before hitting the car in front of you. And of course the condition of your car also comes into play.

4.) Don’t use headlight flashing to get ahead of everyone else headlight flashing, or optical horn, is the act of quickly switching between high beam and low beam headlight numerous times.

It is commonly used to convey a signal or message to other drivers, such as letting others know of car breakdowns or other road hazards. It is also a way of letting other motorists and pedestrians know of your presence. however, these days headlight flashing has gone the way of aggressive driving, with a lot of drivers flashing their headlights to tell other driv-

ers that they do not plan to slow down even if they do not have the right of way. the use of headlight flashing should not lose its original essence, which is to caution other drivers, so please use it appropriately.

5.) Use horns only when necessary Pinoys are known to honk their horns with great delight. What is normally used as a means to caution motorists and pedestrians of your presence have become ubiquitous to signify others to “give way,” “start moving,” or “get out of my way.” or worse, “sakay na!” among jeepney drivers. Press on your horns only when there is immediate threat of collision with other vehicles, although you can also give a light tap—a quick beep—to signal drivers who are not paying attention to the changing stoplight, or to signal drivers who are driving too close to you.

Be also mindful of the “no horns” sign in areas where silence is greatly observed, such as churches and schools. most importantly, be reminded that blowing your horns will not clear traffic jams so stop pushing on it every time you are in C5 during rush hour. It just induces road rage among other drivers who are pressured by both the traffic jam AND your incessant beeping.

6.) Use hazard lights appropriately hazard lights are flashing indicator lights at the front and back of your vehicle that are turned on when you press the button with the little red triangle sign on your

dashboard. turning on the hazard lights sends out a message to other motorists that you are currently a hazard on the road and must be avoided. this is why you turn this on when your car is broken and is awaiting towing, or when you pull over on the side of the road to change a flat tire or to attend to a very legit emergency that could not wait. It should not be used to warn motorists of your illegal parking on the road—believe me, there are a lot of people who do this, especially those who wait by the Atm or by convenience stores.

Nor should you use it when driving in the rain since your fellow motorists won’t be able to tell when you’ll turn left or right—making it more hazardous. remember, you shouldn’t be parking illegally in the first place.

7.) Don’t text and drive.

Everyone: this is self-explanatory. Don’t even make us show you vehicular accident statistics to back this up. Even worse, don’t play games while driving! Your clans or Kardashian celebrity character can always wait. trust us.

8.) Don’t flip at people.

No matter whose fault it is, NEVEr FLIP At othEr DrIVErS while driving or during an altercation. We’ve already seen news about people blowing off and doing more damage because they were shown hostile behaviour by other motorists. Always remember that it is not worth you or your passengers’ lives. If ever you find yourself in a road accident with another vehicle, calmly negotiate and say no to road rage.

D december 3-6, 2016 • LA WeeKeNd ASIAN JOUrNAL

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