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Ombudsman insists GMA guilty of plunder despite SC acquittal

by JOseph

j u ly 2 1 - 2 7 , 2 0 1 6

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEW YORk/NEW JERSEY

alMer B. pedraJas AJPress

After Gloria macapagal-Arroyo was acquitted of plunder charges by the supreme Court (sC) on tuesday, July 19, the office of ombudsman insists that the former Philippine president and now Pampanga congresswoman is guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

In a press conference last Wednesday, July 20, ombudsman Conchita Carpio morales expressed her disappointment over the sC’s ruling. A retired sC justice herself, morales said that there were ample evidence presented by the office of the Prosecutor to prove that the plunder charges against macapagal-Arroyo are true.

“We are able to present strong evidence of 630 plus documentary exhibits, testimony of so many witnesses...as well as 40 plus folder records of the case,” morales said in a report by the Inquirer. “to us these are exhaustive records which reflect PAGE A2

Real estate billionaire Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, take the stage on the first night of the Republican National Convention in Cleveland on Monday, July 18. Trump garnered the necessary delegate votes to become the Republican Party’s official nominee on Tuesday, July 19.

AJPress photo by Christina M. Oriel ‘RESURRECTION. ’Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (left) is shown in high spirits, and without her neck brace, after being told of her acquittal from a plunder charge by one of her lawyers, Raul Lambino (right). Arroyo, 69, is set to walk free after hospital detention at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center since 2012.

Photo courtesy of Raul Lambino

DOJ petitions DATELINE USA Supreme Court to US House Dems rehear deadlocked push Senate to immigration case from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

ratify UNCLOS

foLLoWING the UN Permanent Court of Arbitration’s ruling in favor of the Philippines in the south China (West Philippine sea) territorial dispute, Democrats of the United states house of representatives are urging the senate to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the sea (UNCLos).

UNCLos is an international agreement that outlines the rights and responsibilities of nations for the world’s oceans. the agreement also established guidelines for management of the ocean’s waters, ecosystem and natural resources by busiPAGE A2

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

oN monday, July 18, the United states Department of Justice (DoJ) has petitioned the supreme Court to rehear the tied immigration case, which has left approximately 5 million undocumented immigrants, who are fearing deportation, uncertain of their futures.

Last month, the supreme Court arrived at a deadlocked 4-4 verdict on United states v. texas, leaving the decision to implement Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent residents (DAPA) and expand the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to the next administration. “this filing is consistent with historical practice and reflects the need for prompt and definitive resolution of this important case,” DoJ spokeswoman melanie Newman said in a statement on the petition. the tied decision was possible because of a vacancy left on the supreme Court bench following the death of PAGE A2

Donald Trump officially secures GOP nomination Campaign announces Asian American advisory committee

by Christina

M. Oriel

AJPress

CLeVeLAND—It’s official: Donald J. trump has clinched the republican nomination for president on tuesday night, July 19, defying odds that he would not rise to the top of the party’s ticket.

Before prime-time speakers took the stage on the second day of the party’s convention, state delegations conducted a roll call vote, wherein trump garnered 1,725 votes.

California delegates delivered 172 votes for trump, while 16 of Nevada’s went to him. When it was New York’s turn, the state initially passed, only for it to later announce its votes to put trump over the 1,237 count needed to secure the nomination.

“It is my honor to be able to throw Donald trump over the top in the delegate count tonight with 89 delegates and another six for John Kasich,” said trump’s son, Donald Jr.

US Senate approves Congressional PH rejects bilateral talks with Gold Medal bill for China outside court ruling Filipino WWII vets by dana

Community leaders call on the House to follow lead in approving long-overdue recognition

fILIPINo World War II veterans are one step closer to getting the recognition long overdue to them. on Wednesday, July 13, the U.s. senate unanimously approved s. 1555, or the filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold medal (CGm) Act of 2015 that would grant the Congressional Gold medal to more than 260,000 filipino and American soldiers who served under the United states Army in the far east (UsAffe).

Less than 16,000 of the filipino soldiers who answered President roosevelt’s call PAGE A3

siOsOn AJPress

the Philippines turned down proposals from China to hold bilateral negotiations outside international tribunal’s ruling last week over the West Philippine (south China) sea dispute. the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in the hague concluded last week that China’s territorial claims concerning the “ninedash line” has no legal basis. foreign Affairs secretary Perfecto Yasay told ABs-CBN that he met with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi during the Asia-europe meeting in mongolia last weekend. he said that PAGE A2 Pres. Rodrigo Duterte and Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay

“Congratulations Dad, we love you.” of the total 2,472 delegate votes assigned by the party, 747 went to former presidential candidates, including ohio Gov. John Kasich, florida sen. marco rubio and texas sen. ted Cruz. trump, who was not physically present at the Quicken Loans Arena, delivered remarks via video from New York.

“It is something I’ll never, ever forget. together we have achieved historic results with the largest vote total in the history of the republican Party,” the real estate mogul said. “this is a movement, but we have to go all the way.” he was slated to speak about how to build a “brighter and more hopeful future for all Americans” and formally accept the party nomination in person on thursday, July 21, the final night of the convention. his running mate, Indiana Gov. mike Pence, took the stage the night before. tuesday’s theme was “make America Work Again,” intended

to center on the party’s policies on stimulating the economy and increasing the workforce. the speeches took another turn, instead focusing on a subject that republicans can unite on: ensuring that former secretary of state and Democratic presumptive presidential nominee hillary Clinton does not win the election. republican National Committee (rNC) co-chair sharon Day alleged that Clinton “plays the gender card.”

“I want to see a woman become president one day, and I want my granddaughters to see a woman president, but not that woman, hillary Clinton,” Day said.

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie – who was in the running to be trump’s vice president – riled up the crowd with his speech that scrutinized Clinton’s record as head of the state department.

Amid the audience chanting “lock her up” and “guilty,” PAGE A2

Pacquiao’s return to boxing ring set on Nov. 5 by dana

siOsOn AJPress

It seems former eight-division champion manny Pacquiao isn’t about to give up his fighting career just yet.

After a brief rest from the boxing world, Pacquiao will fight inside the ring once again on November 5, according to his long-time boxing promoter Bob Arum.

With a career record of 58 wins and 66 fights, Arum earlier announced that Pacquiao’s boxing career will resume on october 29 but the date was later ruled out.

Dismissing the possibility of fighting Danny Garcia, Arum revealed that World Boxing organization (WBo) light welterweight champion terence Crawford, World Boxing Council (WBC) champion Viktor Postol and WBo welterweight titleholder Jessie Vargas were the possible contenders to fight Pacquiao.

“A lot of it depends on if manny wants to go down to 140. If he decides to go to 140 and Crawford wins, that could be the fight, but if he says no, says, ‘Because of the senate, I’m not going to be able to get PAGE A2

A

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Ombudsman insists...

PAGE A1 that the prosecution was able to prove [guilt] beyond reasonable doubt.�

Morales added that the Ombudsman would file a motion for reconsideration, which is among many legal remedies they are planning. She, however, refuses to disclose other plans. “Marami tayong (We have many) legal options. I’m not going to place the cards on the table. I don’t want to open the eyes of our detractors,� Morales said.

Insufficient evidence On Tuesday, SC spokesman Theodore Te said that the court junked the P366-million corruption case filed by the Office of the Ombudsman due to insufficient evidence and ordered Arroyo’s “immediate release.�

The SC also granted Macapagal-Arroyo’s request to free her from hospital arrest at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center where she has been detained since 2012.

In October 2012, the former president was accused of plunder when the Sandiganbayan released its ruling over Arroyo’s alleged misuse of funds of the state-run Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

One of the accused, PCSO budget officer Benigno Aguas, revealed under oath that P244 million plus of intelligence funds from the PCSO went to Malacanang, and P140 million were given to the Office of the President during

the election period in 2010.

The SC also junked the plunder case against Aguas.

The former president’s lawyers argued that prosecutors were not able to prove that the alleged funds went to their client. She was charged with plunder which is a non-bailable offense, but her legal counsels said her spinal problem made her eligible for humanitarian release while she awaited trial.

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, and Justices Marvic Leonen and Benjamin Caguioa were the only four justices who voted against Arroyo’s acquittal.

Vindicated and thankful Macapagal-Arroyo’s expressed “heartfelt appreciation� to Duterte for “allowing due process to take its course totally unhampered.�

She also thanked the justices who finally stopped the persecution that she had felt for five years.

But above all, she puts all her gratitude towards her faith. “First and foremost, to God Almighty be all the glory and praise. Through His kindness and mercy, justice and righteousness have once again prevailed over injustice and wrongdoing,� she stated.

Knowing that there will be people who will continue to doubt her innocence, Arroyo asked the public to accept the judgment. “With the High Tribunal rendering a final decision on this unfortunate episode, I sincerely hope that everyone will respect

and recognize the truth that has been established,� she added.

One of her legal counsels, Estelito Mendoza, said Arroyo feels “beyond vindication, beyond joy� because of the decision. “What is significant about it is that she did not have to present any evidence, which means from inception, there was no basis for her to be imprisoned and detained,� Mendoza told reporters.

Her other lawyer, Ferdinand Topacio, said in a statement, “The Supreme Court has once again proven itself to be the final bastion of justice and the rule of law. Its ruling today has validated what we have been saying for six years now: that the charges against former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo are nothing more than disingenuous attempts at political persecution by a corrupt and inept Aquino administration intent on covering up its gross lack of accomplishments by harassing its political opponents.�

The Philippine National Police (PNP) would process Arroyo’s release once the SC releases its verdict. “It is my fervent hope that nobody else will suffer the persecution that had been levied on me through self-serving interpretation and implementation of the law,� Macapagal-Arroyo said in a statement released on Tuesday. “And that the disregard of truth for which I was made to suffer be dealt with accordingly at the soonest possible time.�

DOJ petitions Supreme Court...

PAGE A1 long-serving conservative Justice Antonin Scalia in February.

Moreover, Republicans in Congress have yet to consider President Barack Obama’s nomination of Merrick Garland as Scalia’s replacement in March.

If the Court accepts the petition, arguments will begin as soon as a ninth justice is sworn in. “Ordinarily, it is exceedingly rare for this Court to grant rehearing. But when this Court has granted plenary review and then affirmed by vote of an equally divided Court because of a vacancy rather than a disqualification, the Court has not infrequently granted rehearing before a full bench,� the petition read.

The tied result left in place a lower court’s ruling that

blocked President Obama’s executive order.

In the case of deadlocked decisions relating to vacancies on the justice bench, a petition for rehearing is permitted by those involved in the case. Right after the ruling, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch had suggested that the DOJ was interested in taking up the case. “We will be reviewing the case and seeing what, if anything else, we need to do in court,�

Lynch told Reuters in June.

Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton, a committed backer of Obama’s immigration policies, took to Twitter to express her support for the DOJ’s petition. “With five million lives on the line, [the Supreme Court] should grant DOJ’s petition to rehear U.S. v. Texas. Let’s keep immi-

grant families together. -H,� she tweeted on Monday, July 18.

The Center for American Progress (CAP) also came out in support of the DOJ’s petition, stating that the case is far too important to be sent back to the lower courts, and that the case must be handled by a fully staffed Supreme Court bench. “With nothing more to be gained from sending this case back to the trial court, we urge the Supreme Court, once fully constituted, to agree to hear this case and do the right thing: reject this politically motivated lawsuit, respect the authority of the secretary of homeland security to set smart national immigration enforcement policies, and unfreeze DAPA and expand DACA,� Vice President of CAP Tom Jawetz said in a statement. n

Melania Trump

PAGE A1

Donald Trump officially secures...

Christie said, “We don’t disqualify Hillary Clinton to be the president of the United States.

The facts of her life and career disqualify her.�

Following the governor’s speech, Clinton tweeted, “If you think Chris Christie can lecture anyone on ethics, we have a bridge to sell you.�

Former presidential candidate and retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson also spoke that night, as did Trump’s children, Tiffany and Donald Jr. AAPIs for Trump At a luncheon hosted by the RNC, Chinese Americans for Trump, and Shawn and Michelle Steel on Wednesday, July 20 Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) from around the country spoke about why they support the GOP nominee and how to engage their communities.

RNC Chairman Reince Priebus said that the party has “come a long way� in terms of reaching out to AAPIs. “That’s something a competent party should always do.

Unfortunately, for many years, we were just a party that would show up once every four years, three months before an election,� he said. “We couldn’t figure out why our percentage of the vote of AAPI voters kept going lower and lower and lower.�

PH rejects bilateral talks...

insist on the ruling and discussing it along those lines, then we might be headed for a conshould be disregarded and not with our constitution and our frontation but I really honestly PAGE A1 be mentioned during the talk. national interest.� feel that this is something that they informally discussed the “They had asked us also to Yasay also mentioned that they had to make on a public possibilities of having bilateral open ourselves for bilateral Wang warned him of possible basis but I also said that there talks regarding the disputed negotiations but outside of and confrontations if the Philip- was room for us to talk quietly territories. in disregard of the arbitration pines continues to insist on the using backdoor channeling,�

However, he rejected the of- ruling,� Yasay told ANC. tribunal’s ruling. he said. fer after Wang insisted that the “I told him that this is some“They said that if you will Still, Yasay said he was hopetribunal’s decision last week thing that was not consistent

Pacquiao’s return to boxing...

PAGE A1 down to 140 comfortably,’ then he’ll fight against Vargas,� Arum

Manny Pacquiao

AJPress photos by Christina M. Oriel

Protests against police brutality outside the Quicken Loans Arena.

Last year, the party launched the Republican Leadership Initiative, an effort to train millennial and minority voters.

Alan Cobb, the Trump campaign’s director of coalitions, announced that the campaign would launch an Asian American advisory committee. “We’re going to have vigorous Asian American outreach all across the country, but particularly in battleground states,� he said.

Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes, a Filipino-American, said that it’s natural for AAPIs to support Trump and the Republican Party.

“The Republican values of the party reflect [AAPI] values – a love for family, hard work and industry, self-reliance and success,� Reyes said.

He added, “Donald Trump represents what [AAPI] values are all about. He is a fighter, just like our community. People overlook him all the time, but he comes out to the top because he’s successful and he’s a winner [with] tireless work ethic.�

On the Democratic side, the party’s four-day convention will begin in Philadelphia on Monday, July 25. Clinton is expected to announce her vice presidential pick before then. n

ful that matters will be settled peacefully. “We have asked China to exercise restraint and sobriety in this regard, that we maintain the status quo for now in terms of not taking aggressive actions... not coming out with any provocative statements.�

President Rodrigo Duterte said the Philippines would not

give up its territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea, according to reports from The STAR. The president vowed to adhere to the ruling of the international tribunal, giving the assurance during the courtesy call of a US congressional delegation last Tuesday, July 19 at MalacaĂąang.

his boxing career after winning a 12-round unanimous decision against Timothy Bradley Jr. to told LA Times. focus on his political career.

Last April, Pacquiao earlier He was elected last May as part announced his retirement from of the Philippine Senate and made it clear that if ever he decided to fight again, he will assure that it will never affect his responsibilities in the government.

Arum said that Senate President Franklin Drilon gave him permission to train once the country’s budget is settled in mid-October. “He would train in the Philippines and leave on the 16th to come to the U.S., train for two weeks and then come to Vegas,�

Philippine Star quoted Arum. “The only issue is getting an arena for the fight.�

MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and the Tomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas were considered to host the event, according to Arum.

AJPress photo by Robert Macabagdal

US House Dems push Senate...

PAGE A1 nesses and governments. Over 160 countries and the European Union abide by the treaty.

Although the agreement has existed since President Ronald Reagan’s administration, and President Bill Clinton signed to implement it in 1994, it was never ratified, or approved, by the Senate. The U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Navy have also repeatedly called for its ratification.

The House of Representatives’ armed services and foreign affairs committees released a joint statement calling for the ratification of the long-standing agreement. They said that U.S. involvement in the agreement is essential in protecting U.S. interPAGE A3

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A

US State chief John Kerry to visit Duterte in Manila

by Camille

Diola Philstar.com

US State Secretary John Kerry will meet with newly elected President Rodrigo Duterte in his visit to Manila this month, the Department of State announced on Tuesday, july 19.

Kerry, who last visited the Philippine capital in 2013, is set to “discuss the full range of our cooperation with the new administration,” said Mark Toner, a spokesperson for the State department.

During Kerry’s visit from July 26 to 27, he is also expected to meet with Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay. The call comes a few weeks after the Hague-based arbitral tribunal handed down a ruling favorable to the Philippines on its claims over parts of the South China Sea against China.

Prior to Kerry’s arrival in Manila, he will travel to Vienna, Austria and Paris, France. He will then participate at the Association

of Southeast Asian Nations meetings in Vientiane, Laos.

“At these ASEAN meetings, the secretary will discuss the region’s security architecture and shared transnational challenges including maritime security, illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and the South China Sea,” Toner said in a statement.

John Schaus, a fellow at Washington-based think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies, saidKerry should be the first official from President Barack Obama’s cabinet to meet with Duterte when he assumes office and directly hear his objectives.

“The first step in securing the US-Philippine relationship in the next administration is to meet with Duterte, listen to his views, and start that conversation. This is something only Secretary Kerry can do, and he should,” Schaus said in June.

Schaus added that Kerry should hear what Duterte sees for cooperating with the US and reassure him of the US commitment to the mutual defense treaty between the two countries.

“The secretary can reinforce the message the United States has delivered to the Philippines throughout the Obama administration, emphasizing the importance of partnership and cooperation to enhance the security of both the Philippines and the region as a whole,” Schaus said.

Unlike previous Philippine leaders friendly to the US, Duterte has expressed opposition to a yearly bilateral military exercise and said Washington is only after its interests in the Philippines.

The US government drew the ire of Duterte after a BritishAmerican national facing charges for exploding dynamite inside his hotel room in 2002 was brought out of the country allegedly by US authorities.

anthony liCas AJPress

UP-and-coming Filipino basketball player Kobe Paras announced on Sunday, July 17, that he will play for Creighton University (CU) in Omaha, Nebraska, after leaving the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) earlier this month.

On Monday, July 18, school officials confirmed that Paras had signed a scholarship agreement with CU, according to Bluejays Today. During a phone interview on Monday, the 6-foot-6-inch shooting guard and small forward said he was quickly beginning to feel at home at Creighton.

“I didn’t have that much time, and we just clicked right away,” said Paras.

The move comes about two weeks after an “SAT scoring issue” caused the 18-year-old foreign exchange student to withdraw from summer classes at UCLA, John Montgomery, Paras’s former principal at Cathedral High School in LA, told the Los Angeles Times.

In a statement last June 29, the school said: “Incoming freshman guard Kobe Paras, admitted upon condition to UCLA, has withdrawn from the university

due to academic conditions of his admission not being met.”

However, Montgomery added that the young athlete was an honors student who had met all of his NCAA requirements. Paras averaged 15 points per game as a junior at Cathedral High before spending his final year playing for Middlebrooks Academy, which does not report statistics to the California Interscholastic Federation. Prior to moving to the U.S., Paras played for La Salle Greenhills in the Philippines, where he attained celebrity status.

“Not every 18-year-old has the opportunity to represent their country in everything they do,” said Paras.

The recently recruited Bluejay has been featured on the cover of the LA Times, and was the subject of an in-depth Bleacher Report article. More than 500,000 followers subscribe to his Twitter and Instagram accounts. A YouTube clip of him leaping over LeBron James for a one-handed dunk has over 2.5 million views.

CU coaching staff said Paras has a lot to offer the Bluejays.

“Kobe is a versatile, scoring wing-forward,” said CU coach Greg McDermott. “He’s extremely athletic and has good natural instincts for the game of

Philstar.com photo by Boy Santos

US Senate approves Congressional Gold Medal...

Kobe Paras to play for Creighton University by eriC

SONA PREPARATIONS. A worker cleans the session hall of the House of Representatives yesterday in preparation for President Duterte’s first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 25. Incoming Department of Finance spokesperson Paola Alvarez said yesterday the SONA could focus on the details of the 10-point agenda reported earlier, including the drive for constitutional change to allow a shift to a federal form of government and the revival of the death penalty, although details are still not available.

PAGE A1 to duty are alive today. House Rep. Ted Lieu, who is also an Air Force veteran said the nation’s acknowledgment for the service of hundreds of thousands of Filipinos who fought under the American Flag between 1941 and 1944 was long overdue.

“Our nation’s Filipino veterans played an integral part in World War II and it is time we recognize their brave and courageous service to the United States. ” said Lieu in a statement released by the Congressional Asian Pacific

American Caucus on Wednesday.

Following WWII, Congress passed legislation denying Filipino veterans US citizenship and military benefits. A portion of the 2009 economic stimulus package awarded surviving Filipino veterans with a one-time lump sum – $15,000 for citizens and $9,000 for non-citizens – but (Ret.) Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba says the nation still owes them a debt of gratitude.

“They served honorably and courageously. They suffered hu-

US House Dems push Senate...

Kobe Paras

Inquirer.net/�ri�t�n �ri�t�n ������

basketball.”

Paras excels at cutting through defenders to get to the rim. His former coach at Cathedral High, William Middlebrooks, said Paras has continued to develop his repertoire as a player by extending his shooting range and focusing his defensive game. He, however, cautions that Paras will need to adapt to a higher level of play, but the internationally followed basketball player says he’s ready to make good on his latest opportunity.

“This isn’t something you can mess up and have it happen again,” Paras said. “It’s, ‘Do you want to be the best or not?’ ” n

PAGE A2 ests and promoting the fair and just use of the world’s oceans.

Additionally, they said U.S. involvement in the agreement will bolster the long-standing alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines.

“The United States will continue to uphold its commitment to the Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, to uphold its commitment to international law in the Asia-Pacific region, and to promote the freedom of navigation in the seas and in the air in accordance with international law,” the statement read.

The Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951 was a prom-

ise that the U.S. and the Philippines would support each other if either were to be attacked by another party.

Sen. Jack Reed (D-Rhode Island), the most senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement of his own on Tuesday, July 12, expressing his support for U.S. involvement in UNCLOS as well as praising the Philippine government’s proactive efforts to bring the territorial dispute to court.

“We are limited in our ability to strengthen international law, however, if we cannot lead by example,” Reed said in a statement. “The United States has not yet ratified UNCLOS, despite

miliation and indignation when the Rescission Act of 1946 deprived them of their benefits and U.S. citizenship under the Commonwealth status of the Philippines. They have waited for over 70 years for this time to be recognized,” said Taguba in a statement released Wednesday.

The Senate bill authored by Sen. Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii was co-sponsored by 71 Republican and Democratic senators.

A house version, HR 2737, with 172 co-sponsors must be apPAGE A4 calls from our top military leaders who agree it will strengthen our national security. The treaty is the foundation for [the South China Sea ruling], and U.S. support for UNCLOS will be critical if we are to be successful in advocating for the rule of the law throughout the region.”

The result in the case The Republic of the Philippines v. The People’s Republic of China was a landmark ruling announced on Tuesday, July 12, which stated that there was no evidence that China had precedent over exclusive control over the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea).

“It is my hope that all parties will refrain from taking unnecessarily escalatory actions in the wake of this decision,” said Reed.

(By Klarize Medenilla / AJPress)

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Duterte will not honor UN climate deal

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

sipain (That’s why I’m mad. Now I have this ambassador. I want to kick him),” Duterte said at Malacanang Palace.

Duterte went on to accuse climate change agreements as a way for “developed countries” to “dictate the destiny” of underdeveloped countries.

The Paris Agreement was introduced during a United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change held last December in Paris. The pact involved keeping the global temperature at below 2 degrees Celsius, the accepted limit that keeps the most detrimental impacts of global warming at bay.

When he signed the deal, Aquino said that the international commitment to combat climate change is a major impact on the sustenance of island nations like the Philippines.

However, Duterte said he will not honor the agreement because he himself did not sign it.

“We’ll make a new [agreement] or we do not honor [the Paris agreement] at all,” he said.

“If you have qualms, pay us or give us time to catch up.”

On Tuesday, July 19, an activist group called on Duterte to reconsider his stance on the Paris Agreement as it would do more harm than good to step back on the negotiations.

“The president is actually in-

voking historical responsibility enshrined in the United Nations Climate Change Convention,” Ian Rivera, coordinator of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice, said in a statement.

He agreed with Duterte that “rich countries” are largely responsible for the detrimental effects of climate change. But he said that the agreement was “long overdue” and the best course of action is to be a part of the change before the climate crisis worsens.

“It is difficult now to do away with this global consensus. It will mean going back to several decades of climate negotiations with very little time left before climate catastrophe,” Rivera said.

Pollution is one of the acute environmental issues plaguing the Philippines. According to numbeo.com, the country’s air pollution index is highly rated as 63.4, and the country’s air quality is considered low at a 36.6 rating.

Numeo.com also rated Manila as the city with the highest level of pollution with an index of 93.7. Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) and Taft Avenue are among the most harmful places in regards to air quality in Metro Manila, according to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO). n

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said he “will not honor” international agreements that would help lessen the Philippines’ carbon emissions, noting such limitations are “constrictive” for developing countries.

During his administration, President Benigno Aquino III committed to reducing carbon emissions by 70 percent by 2030 per a 2015 Paris climate agreement in which more than 170 countries agreed to continue efforts to combat global warming.

Duterte said that the agreement stunts the recent economic growth of the Philippines, noting that it is not the right time for the country to commit to such a deal.

“We have not reached the age of industrialization. We are going into it,” Duterte said during a IN SOLIDARITY WITH FRANCE. French Ambassador Thierry Mathou lights a candle at the foot of a replica of the Eiffel Tower to honor the victims of the truck attack in Nice, France during a vigil at the Alliance Francaise de Manille in Makati on Monday, July 18. The Department meeting with Philippine Olympic of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier said that no Filipino was reported injured when armed men drove a truck at full speed through a crowd athletes on Monday, July 18. “We gathered to watch the fireworks display for Bastille Day, the French Independence Day. Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman maintain the present emission.

That’s stupid.”

Duterte referenced a meeting in which an ambassador asked if he would limit the country’s car“Al-Fatihin’s tagline (“The An anonymous security expert bon emissions — carbon dioxide

by Klarize Medenilla newspaper for Malay-speaking told Berita Harian that the news- emitted from industrial factories, AJPress migrants in the Islamic State”) paper can be seen as a warning transportation and other indusTHE Extremist group Islamic drives the point that, no matter that Malay-speaking territories tries — that cause pollution and State (ISIS) has launched a new the differences and nuances in are in ISIS’s sight. poor air quality.

Malay-language publication in language, identity and origins, “This psychological campaign “Kaya galit ako. Ngayon, I an effort to gain support among Southeast Asian jihadists have [a] means that the terrorists have a have this ambassador. Gusto ko jihadists in Southeast Asia, ac- common logos and as such, all big objective, which is to expand cording to Malaysian newspaper Malay-speaking jihadists should their influence among people Berita Harian. act as one,” said Singh and Jani. who understand the Malay lanCalled Al-Fahitin (Arabic for The paper detailed the first is- guage,” said the expert.

“The Conqueror”), the newspa- sue of the newspaper, which was The source added that based per was launched in the south- 20 pages long and focused on on the way that the language is ern Philippines on June 20 and the month of Ramadan and the being used, the writer(s) and/or has been distributed to Malaysia, act of jihad, also known as the editor(s) may be from SouthIndonesia, Brunei, Singapore, “holy struggle.” east Asia. southern Thailand and in parts The issue also included a threeTwo days after Al-Fahitin was of Mindanao where many of the page message from the late Abu launched, ISIS released a video Filipino Muslims there speak the Ayyub al-Masri, Egyptian insur- claiming the Philippines as its Malay language. gent and former al-Qaeda leader territory and told its supporters CNN Indonesia reported that in Iraq, encouraging insurgents in Southeast Asia to travel to the ISIS has its own sector of Malay- to “continue their jihadist activi- country if they can’t make it to speaking correspondents from ties, search for martyrdom and Syria, according to Singaporean Indonesia, Malaysia and the Phil- kill and crucify the polytheists, newspaper Strait Times. ippines called Katiba Nusantara. disbelievers, oppressors and The Philippine military reJasminder Singh and Muham- transgressors.” portedly dismissed the video as mad Haziq Jani, terrorism anaThe use of the Malay lan- “mere propaganda,” according lysts at Nanyang Technological guage was an effective strat- to Strait Times.

University in Singapore, co-au- egy for recruitment because it Over the last few years, there thored a research paper last allows for the organization to has been growing speculation Members of the Bataan Legacy Historical Society (BLHS) and Fil-Am community during the California State Board of Education’s (SBE) approval month called “Al-Fatihin: Islamic “disseminate [ISIS] propagan- that the Philippines is ISIS’s of the inclusion of World War II in the Philippines in the revised history curriculum framework for the state.

State’s First Malay-Language da” to a broader audience in an next target. Southeast Asian Newspaper”, which detailed effort to unify the jihadist popu- militant groups have already the purposes of the newspaper, lation in the region. pledged allegiance to ISIS, like which were to serve Southeast “Al-Fatihin buttresses [ISIS] the Abu Sayyaf in Mindanao Asian jihadists and recruit new messages calling on militant and Mujahideen in eastern Inones. groups in Indonesia and the Phil- donesia. An upsurge of jihadist They also analyzed the under- ippines to unite and pledge their activity from Abu Sayyaf, has NEARLY 75 years since the Commission (IQC) of the Cali- sualties; the role of the Filipino lying effects of introducing such allegiance to Abu Bakr Al-Bagh- raised concern over ISIS’ influ- beginning of America’s involve- fornia Department of Education and American guerrillas during a publication to the region. dadi,” the paper read. ence in the country. n the liberation; the American ment in World War II, history to implement AB199.

With the support of State soldiers who were transported was made on Thursday, July 14, when the California State Board Superintendent Tom Torlak- in hell ships to labor camps in of Education (SBE) approved the son, BLHS was able to expand Asia; the Battles of Leyte Gulf inclusion of World War II in the the scope of the proposed cur- and the destruction of Manila.

This will be the first time that Philippines in the revised histo- riculum framework to include ry curriculum framework for the World War II in the Philippines. WWII in the Philippines will state. This seminal part of WWII On May 19, 2016, the IQC’s His- be taught to high school stuhistory will be included in the tory Social Sciences Committee dents in California and even in Grade 11 U.S. history (Chapter approved all of the recommen- the United States. California’s dations made by BLHS. new history curriculum frame16) curriculum framework.

Chapter 16 of the Grade 11 work can become the model for The approval by the SBE is the culmination of many years U.S. History will include the teaching this seminal point of of hard work from the Filipino following: The Philippine Com- WWII history in the U.S. BLHS community. In 2011 AB199, monwealth; the creation of the has formed a curriculum steerlegislation sponsored by Fiona United States Army Forces in ing committee to create a samMa and Leland Yee was passed the Far East (USAFFE) com- ple curriculum template that by the California legislature prised of Americans and a ma- schools can use to implement which “encourages for the in- jority of Filipinos; the disruption Chapter 16 of the Grade 11 U.S. clusion of the role of the Fili- of the timetable of the Imperial History. BLHS is also organizpinos during WWII in the his- Japanese Army by the USAFFE ing an exhibition that will open tory/social sciences curriculum Forces despite suffering from on October 15 at the War Mefor Grades 7-12.” In 2014, the massive disease and starva- morial Performing Arts Center Bataan Legacy Historical So- tion and fighting without any and a conference on October ciety (BLHS) started working air support; the Bataan Death 29 at the San Francisco Main with the Instructional Quality March and the thousands of ca- Library. n

ISIS recruits Southeast Asians through newspaper

WWII in the Philippines in the new curriculum framework for US history

US Senate approves Congressional Gold Medal...

PAGE A3 proved before the plan to award the medals can move forward.

But with the Senate’s overwhelming approval of S. 1555, it is expected to build momentum and gather more bipartisan support in the House.

The CGM is the highest award bestowed by U.S. Congress to an individual or group who performed a significant achievement that has an impact on American history and culture.

“Other groups like the Tuskegee airmen, Montford Marines, Navajo Code Talkers, Women Air Service Pilots, Japanese American Nisei and Puerto Ri-

can soldiers have been formally recognized by the U.S. with the CGM for World War II service,” said Cecilia Gaerlan, Executive Director of the nonprofit organization, Bataan Legacy Historical Society (BLHS) in a statement.

“Filipino World War II veterans are equally deserving of this honor.”

FilVetREP was formed last year to obtain national recognition of Filipino WWII soldiers for their wartime service to the United States from July 1941 to December 1946.

In addition to requesting an act of Congress approving the CGM, the project will also con-

duct research on the Fil-Am soldiers’ experience during World War II and implement a national education and information campaign to raise public awareness of the Filipino soldiers’ wartime service.

“We as a nation owe them a debt of gratitude for safeguarding our freedom and preserving our future,” said Taguba. “They have earned the honor to be recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal. The cost is the insurmountable amount of lives lost in wartime and thereafter.

We must forever dignify their legacy in American history.”

(Eric Anthony Licas/AJPress)

MOCK RIOT. Mock protesters clash with police during a Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) Competition at the Rizal Park in Manila. The CDM competition is an annual friendly competition where Metro Manila police districts show their level of effectiveness during various civil disturbances.

Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez

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D ateline PhiliPPines Pulse Asia: 91% of Filipinos trust Duterte Binays barred from leaving PH by rosette

by Patricia Lourdes

adeL

Viray

Philstar.com

Philstar.com

MANILA—A recent Pulse Asia survey showed that 91 percent or nearly all Filipinos trust President Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte.

Based on the survey, only 0.2 percent distrust Duterte while the rest could not say if they trust or distrust him.

A total of 1,200 respondents participated in the survey conducted last July 2-8 after his oath taking. The survey has a ± 3-percent error margin at the 95percent confidence level.

Duterte got high trust ratings in all social classes: ABC (89 percent) and DE (92 percent).

Meanwhile, the poll showed that Robredo is most trusted by social class D (64 percent) compared to classes ABC (53 percent) and E (61 percent).

Meanwhile, Vice President Maria “Leni” Robredo gained a trust rating of 62 percent. Eleven percent expressed small or no trust while 27 percent said they were undecided.

The survey also revealed that 35 percent of Filipinos trust Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno while 19 percent do not trust her.

Some 42 percent of the respondents said they were undecided.

The president got the highest trust ratings among respondents from Mindanao (97 percent) while Robredo got her highest trust rating from respondents in Visayas (72 percent).

The respondents said they want the Duterte administration to

THE Third Division of anti-graft court Sandiganbayan issued a hold departure order against former Vice President Jejomar Binay and his son, dismissed Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr. The court ordered the commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration to hold the departure from the

Infographic design by Jonathan Asuncion/Philstar.com

focus on three economic issues — controlling increases in prices (68 percent), creating employment opportunities (56 percent) and crafting new pro-poor programs like education, health and housing for the poor (55 percent) — in its first six months in office.

Forty-eight percent would like the new administration to immediately address the problem of criminality in the country.

Last week, the Social Weather Stations also released the results of its nationwide trust rating poll conducted from June 24-27

showing that Duterte gained 84 percent trust rating while only 5 percent had “little trust” in him for an “excellent” net trust rating of +79.

Pulse Asia President Ronnie Holmes said that based on history most presidents obtain high ratings during their first week in office, and usually, it is the highest they can get throughout their term.

“This is the highest numerically (trust ratings during the first week). It’s been high for most presidents,” Holmes said.

Former Vice President Jejomar Binay and his son, former Makati Mayor Junjun Binay, are both facing criminal charges in connection to the anomalous construction of the P2.2billion Makati City Hall Building II.

Pia Wurtzbach meets Duterte, discusses possibility to host next Miss U pageant in PH

by JosePh

aLmer B. PedraJas AJPress

MANILA—Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach paid a courtesy call on President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacañang last Monday, July 18, to discuss the possibility of the Philippines to host the next Miss Universe pageant.

Despite her busy schedule, Wurtzbach flew back to the country to talk about the previous proposal of the Department of Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach takes a selfie with President Rodrigo Tourism (DOT) to hold the next Miss UniDuterte whom she visited on Monday, JULY 18. The two, along with Miss Universe President Paula Shugart, discussed the possible hosting verse pageant in the country, which was later approved by the president. by the Philippaines of the next Miss Universe pageant.

“I’m very happy that I’m back home after Photo by Catherine Valente

a while. The last time I was here was during the coronation night of the Binibining Pilipinas pageant. And now I’m back here to work actually,” Wurtzbach said.

The Presidential Broadcast Staff-RTVM, the state media, posted a video on its Facebook account showing the reigning Miss Universe accompanied by her manager Esther Swan, Miss Universe pageant president Paula Shugart, Shawn McClain, DOT Secretary Wanda Teo and Undersecretary Kat de Castro.

According to a Malacañang press release, the two also “talked about the simiPAGE A7

Philippines of the Binays who are facing criminal charges.

Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales earlier indicted the former vice president for graft, malversation of public funds and falsification of public documents in connection to the anomalous construction of the Makati City Hall Building II. Binay Jr. is also facing two counts

A

of graft and one count of malversation before the anti-graft court.

The former vice president and his son have both posted bail before the Sandiganbayan last week.

Aside from the elder Binay and his son, 10 others are barred from leaving the country and will be included in the hold departure list of the Bureau of Immigration.

A

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OpiniOn Raring

Features

THE numbers are in his favor as it seems that majority of Filipinos are looking forward to the next six years of Pres.

Rodrigo Duterte’s leadership and are eager to see the changes he had promised.

In a Social Weather Station (SWS) poll conducted from June 24 to 27, 84 percent of 1,200 adults or 8 in 10 Filipinos surveyed gave Duterte “much trust.” Only five percent said they had “little trust” on the president, while 11 percent were undecided.

The SWS classifies net trust ratings of at least +70 as “excellent”; +50 to +69 as “very good”; +30 to +49, “good”; +10 to +29, “moderate”; +9 to -9, “neutral”; -10 to -29, “poor”; -30 to -49, “bad”; -50 to -69, “very bad”; and -70 and below as “execrable.”

Duterte received excellent rating across the board: +87 from Filipino college graduates, +81 from college undergraduates, +74 from those who reached high school, and +76 from those who did not finish elementary.

“It’s a positive sign and very encouraging to know that the people trust the judgment, decisions and actions of the President,” presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar told reporters in a text message. “The mandate is clear, the government cannot stop what it has started,” he said.

“I’m sure he would appreciate the trust and he would say, if I know him, na ‘trabaho lang ‘yan (that’s just my job), that’s part of the job and that we will continue to do our part,” presidential spokes-

man Ernesto Abella said.

The Filipino’s support is essential to any leader. They are after all, who voted him into office. On the other hand, Duterte now plays a central role in every Filipino’s life. In the next six years, he is expected to shape the system, make crucial decisions, and represent the hopes and interests of every Filipino.

By definition, a good politician is someone who does a good job at being a leader and representing his people’s best interests. Through polls, not only are leaders’ performance projected through approval ratings. These numbers also represent the dynamics of Philippine politics, a gauge whether it is progressing or regressing.

This new level of confidence from Filipinos is enough to show that the government is on a good start. But these numbers do not warrant him or the government complacency. These results only represent how promising their governance will further go. Factors that might take a toll on his standing are yet to come.

After all, good politicians should know that serving a representative democracy means embracing challenges and opportunities that the post offers them. (AJPress)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

Post-convention match-up: Clinton vs Trump – electing a president in the era of fear and hate have their big party THEIR political opconvention in Cleveponents from their re- The Fil-Am land, Ohio, while the spective parties might Democratic Party have conceded defeat Perspective would hold its confollowing a long convention on July 25tentious primary sea28 in Philadelphia, son, but Hillary ClinPennsylvania. ton and Donald Trump Delegates elected would remain to be Gel SantoS-reloS by constituents of called as presumptive nominees of the Democratic and Re- every county nationwide, as well as publican parties respectively — up un- party elites chosen by each party (sutil they both get officially proclaimed to per delegates), come together every be their parties’ presidential nominee nominating convention to officially for the general election in November nominate the party’s candidate for president and vice president. It is also in their respective party conventions.

On July 18-21, the Republican Party when each party adopts the party’s (aka Grand Old Party or GOP), would platform and rules.

During the four-day convention, each party would present speakers to showcase their values, vision, and platform. It is also when they officially introduce their official nominees for president and vice president, and why they believe these nominees would best steer the country towards their party’s vision for America in the next four years.

While in the past election cycles the mood was festive and the enthusiasm for each respective candidate had been buoyed by the voters’ respect, admiration, and confidence for their presidential bet, this present election cycle would seem to be driven more by “hate” and “fear” the voters of each

party feels about the opposing candidate, more than their love for their party’s nominee.

This sentiment was confirmed by a recent Associated Press/GFK survey which revealed that a vast majority of Americans say they are actually afraid of at least one of the two major presidential candidates [to be elected as the 45th President of the United States of America].

Eighty-one percent of those polled say they would feel afraid if either Trump or Clinton were elected. Seventy-five percent of respondents say their choice for president is motivated by the desire to make sure the other candidate does not win.

The Hague ruling: PH cannot rely on US backing Commentary

atty. dodo dulay HOWEVER the United States tries to goad China into accepting the ruling of the United Nation’s Permanent Court of Arbitration, in The Hague, what is certain is that the Philippines cannot rely on the Americans—or on our military alliance pact (the latest iteration of which is the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, or EDCA)—to test the limits of, let alone give teeth to the decision of the arbitral tribunal upholding the country’s sovereign rights over the disputed areas in the South China Sea. The only peaceful and mutually beneficial outcome possible after The Hague ruling is one that allows the country to exploit the natural resources within its 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) while at the same time letting China retain a civilian (rather than military) presence in the South China Sea. This means a pragmatic solution whereby China can save face before the international community without totally disregarding the decision of the international court.

That’s a tall order for the newly installed government of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Although China refused to participate in the arbitration—and has rejected the international court’s decision as “naturally null and void”—it cannot ignore the ruling altogether. Having ratified the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on June

7, 1996, China is legally bound by the ruling of The Hague tribunal even though it chose to boycott the proceedings.

In fact, UNCLOS specifically allows the international court to make legally binding decisions despite the absence of one party.

Article 9 (Default of Appearance) of Annex VII (Arbitration) states: “If one of the parties to the dispute does not appear before the arbitral tribunal or fails to defend its case, the other party may request the tribunal to continue the proceedings and to make its award. Absence of a party or failure of a party to defend its case shall not constitute a bar to the proceedings.”

Article 11 (Finality of Award) of Annex VII of UNCLOS also says that “the award shall be final and without appeal … and shall be complied with by all the parties to the dispute.”

Although the decision may be legally binding and final, there is no mechanism by which the country can compel China to comply with the ruling. But the Philippines can and should use this precedentsetting decision in international law as a valuable bargaining chip, both in the diplomatic front and at the negotiating table.

At a time when China seeks to assert itself as a global superpower, it cannot risk being seen as a regional bully by continuing the unilateral annexation of rocky outcrops and atolls in the South China Sea, now declared illegal under international law by virtue of The Hague tribunal’s decision. It would also be foolhardy for China to gamble away its political capital by flouting international law, especially in the Asian region where it wants to expand its “soft power.”

The challenge for the Duterte administration is to arrive at a

Commentary

Senator Harry reid

settlement that will be in the best interests of Filipino people without banking on America’s “iron clad commitment to defending the Philippines” in its ongoing territorial dispute with China.

For one, the “freedom of navigation” operations conducted by the US Navy based on the “right of innocent passage” guaranteed

by UNCLOS, which is obviously aimed at challenging China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea, rest on flimsy legal authority since the US has not even ratified the maritime treaty.

In fact, it is quite hypocritical for the US to demand that China follow international law while itself refusing to ratify the UNCLOS, together with the likes of North Korea, Iran, Syria, Libya, and Venezuela. The US expects China to abide by the rules on maritime disputes yet refuses to be bound by those same rules.

It’s no wonder then that China has called out the US for its twofaced stance.

“The US is always selective when it comes to the application of international law: citing international law when it sees fit and discarding international law when it sees otherwise. It keeps urging others to abide by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) while refusing to ratify the Convention to this day,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry

spokesman Lu Kang.

By refusing to ratify UNCLOS, the US has lost the “moral standing” to stand up to China with regard to its dispute with the Philippines. It is also becoming apparent that this is less about international law and more about America’s strategic rival, China, projecting power over maritime territory to push back against US dominance in the Western Pacific.

With The Hague ruling favoring America’s longtime ally in the Pacific, the US is going to step up the pressure on Beijing to justify both America’s “Pivot-to-Asia” policy as well as the creation of a network of military outposts and alliances throughout the region using the EDCA framework.

Ironically, while the US is demonizing China as an international bully, it has no qualms collaborating with Beijing, even holding military exercises with the Chinese armed forces, such as in the ongoing Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2016, in Hawaii. Using a two-pronged strategy of cooperation and confrontation, the US hopes to keep in check China’s rising global influence.

As a mere pawn in a global Game of Thrones, the Philippines ought to know that what is only truly “ironclad” are the interests of the world’s top superpowers—and leverage this to our advantage.

(ManilaTimes.net)

These findings are consistent with many polls that show both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have the highest unfavorable ratings among party frontrunners in recent election cycles.

What about you? Are you rooting for Clinton or Trump? Is your choice propelled by your respect and love for your candidate, or by your fear of and disdain for the other party’s candidate? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Ensuring an affordable health care

SINCE President Johnson signed them into law on July 30, 1965, Medicare and Medicaid have helped millions of people receive necessary health care services. These programs are some of the most integral legislation ever passed and they continue to protect Americans throughout the country.

Health care is not a luxury. It is a necessity no child or adult, regardless of income, should live without. My first elected position was at the Southern Nevada Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees, now the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada.

At the time, health care was not guaranteed to seniors. Many seniors were required to have a family member co-sign for them when being treated to ensure responsibility for their medical costs. If you could not produce a signature, you were turned away, and if you were fortunate enough to have health insurance, you paid more than 50 percent of the cost out-of-pocket.

It was a terrible system.

Medicare and Medicaid were implemented during my tenure on the Hospital Board and I learned firsthand the importance of these programs. I’ve made it my life’s work to maintain and strengthen these programs since.

It has been 51 years since Medicare and Medicaid became law.

Although much has changed in terms of medicine and technology, the need for quality, affordable health care has not.

I will never stop fighting to protect and strengthen these successful programs on behalf of the millions they assist. In 2010, I proudly cast my vote in support of the Affordable Care Act, which is strengthening Medicare and working to keep seniors’ hard-earned savings in their own pockets.

Since this law was enacted, millions of seniors throughout the country have saved more than $20.8 billion dollars on their prescription drug costs. Medicare also now covers certain preventive services for seniors without charging the Part B coinsurance or deductible.

The law has also given states the option of expanding their Medicaid programs so that more low-income seniors can access the care they need.

Medicare and Medicaid are two of our nation’s most important programs, particularly for seniors, low-income individuals, and other vulnerable populations.

This is why my Democratic colleagues and I will continue to support Medicare and Medicaid and fight against attempts to undermine and destroy these effective programs. We must ensure that these key lifelines are always available to the Americans who need them.

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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Robredo on killings: Senseless and unjust violence must stop MANILA—Vice President Leni Robredo on Wednesday, July 20 condemned the series of extrajudicial killings in the country in recent days and called on authorities to investigate and prosecute those behind them.

“These senseless and unjust violence must stop,” Robredo said that five people were reportedly killed in Malabon in a “drug-related massacre” and another man suspected of being a drug pusher was killed in Quezon City in what the victim’s sister said was a case of mistaken identity.

“The rise in extrajudicial killings is a call for all of us to uphold every person’s right to due process. Each of those Filipinos who were killed over alleged crimes were denied their right to a fair trial, and those lives may never be returned to their loved ones,” she said.

According to a report on The Star, 13 drug suspects were killed between July 17 and 19. More than a hundred others have died since June 30, some in anti-drug operations and others by unknown killers.

Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay

“We should not foster a culture of fear in our society—one that tacitly accepts death and one that does not give respect to human life,” the vice president said.

“We urge the authorities to seriously investigate these killings and bring those responsible to justice,” she also said. Resolutions have already been filed at both the Senate and the House of Representatives calling for probes into the killings but Solicitor General Jose Calida

has said that he will defend police from investigations if these are not in aid of legislation.

On Monday, the International Commission of Jurists, an organization of jurists and lawyers around the world, urged President Rodrigo Duterte to take action against the rise in extrajudicial killings.

“We are also concerned by your recent statements that appear to be encouraging extrajudicial killings of those engaged in the sale and distribution of illegal drugs in the Philippines,” the ICJ said.

Philippine National Police Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has said in public that he does not approve of extrajudicial killings. He has also reminded police officers to follow operational procedure in the government’s campaign against drugs and crime.

“Please continue the fight. The momentum is ours. [N]andito po kami para suportahan kayo.

Remember, huwag po kayong mag-abuso, legitimate operations lang po dapat lahat,” he said on July 11.

China ready to help Philippines in war on drugs

MANILA—China has pledged to help the Philippines in the campaign against illegal drugs, with its embassy saying narcotics are “a common enemy of mankind.”

In a statement to the media, Chinese Embassy spokesperson Li Lingxiao said that China “has expressed explicitly to the new administration China’s willingness for effective cooperation in this regard, and would like to work out a specific plan of action with the Philippine side.”

Li said the Chinese government has been “firm and severe in drug control and in punishing all drug

criminals in accordance with laws regardless their nationalities” and added it has cooperated effectively with other countries against drugs.

“Fighting against all drug-related crimes is shared responsibility of all countries in the world,” Li also said.

Duterte, who has promised a bloody war against drugs and criminality in the country, said Monday that he plans to raise grievances with China over links that some Chinese nationals allegedly have with illegal drug syndicates.

“One day I will ask China, Why is the situation like this? I won’t say why are you sending them, but why is it that most of the guys who come here do drugs, even inside jail?” Duterte said in a video release on Monday, July 18.

He said that many Chinese nationals have been killed in police operations against drugs.

The Philippine National Police also seized a “floating shabu lab” aboard a ship in Subic Bay that had sailed to the Philippines from Hong Kong. Four Chinese nationals were arrested in the raid.

(Philstar.com)

Pia Wurtzbach meets Duterte, discusses...

PAGE A5 larities between them, with both of them hailing from Mindanao.”

Duterte is the first Mindanaoan president while Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach is the first from the region to win Miss Universe.

Dressed in a pink Bessie Besana jumpsuit, Wurtzbach took a selfie with the president and posted the picture on her Instagram with a caption expressing her gratitude.

“What an honor it was to meet our new President, Rodrigo

Duterte. First Mindanaon President and first Mindanaon Miss Universe. #changeiscoming #Philippines,” she stated in her post.

Before visiting the president, Wurtzbach had initially met Teo. The DOT secretary expressed her gratitude towards Wurtzbach for her efforts to support the country’s hosting to the upcoming pageant.

Teo is also hopeful that the event will benefit the economy.

“If this translates into reality,

our tourism industry stands to gain tremendously,” Teo said.

Meanwhile, Wurtzbach emphasized her full support and willingness for the Philippines to host the said event.

“I don’t think it’s a secret; it’s a public knowledge that it is my personal dream, and I think the dream of a lot of Filipinos, the majority of Filipinos, that someday we’ll see the Miss Universe pageant to be held here. And we are keeping our fingers crossed,” she stated.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority 340 North 11th Street, Las Vegas, Nevada 89101 Phone (702) 922-6060

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP No.: P16513

Physical Needs Assessment and Energy Audit Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority SNRHA CONTACT PERSON

Amparo Gamazo, Dev/Mod Director Telephone 702-922-6060, TDD 702-387-1898

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A

SEND OFF. President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, July 18 led the send off for the Philippine Team competing in the Rio 2016 Olympics. Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco was at the event held inside Malacañang. Photos shared with the Malacañang Press Corps showed Duterte wearing the team’s red jacket with a patch of the Philippine flag. During his speech, Duterte said he will increase the allowance of the athletes to $3,000 (previously $1,000) and that of the officials to $5,000 (previously $3,000). Malacañang photo

It’s final: Liberal Party to be minority

by Delon

Porcalla Philstar.com

MANILA—Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and 34 others, including his Liberal Party (LP) colleagues in the House of Representatives, will form the minority.

They have refused to join the super majority coalition of prospective speaker Pantaleon Alvarez in the incoming 17th Congress.

Belmonte said he has decided to run for speaker when Congress convenes on July 25, and losing the speakership race will automatically make him the leader of the House minority (or opposition) bloc.

“I am taking the challenge to be a responsible and lead fiscalizer, and I will perform my job as opposition leader,” said the reelected Quezon City congressman.

Belmonte, now on his third and last term, lamented that circumstances have forced them to join the ranks of the minority in the House, after talks between LP and the ruling PDP-Laban party of President Duterte bogged down, as the former dominant party’s membership has dwindled significantly.

“We were reduced and raided deliberately by the new majority.

Our number now is 35 LP lawmakers. There is no reason to join the supermajority because we would be sidelined,” he said.

At the same time, Belmonte expressed fears the incoming House leadership may install a

so-called “company union” in the minority, which means administration-friendly lawmakers may opt to join the opposition bloc if only to sabotage its ranks.

“He (Alvarez) might do that, but I hope not,” Belmonte said, referring to the dilution of ranks.

As it is, there are two other lawmakers —aside from Belmonte—who are aspiring for the post of House minority leader—Reps.

Danilo Suarez of Quezon and Toby Tiangco of Navotas, who belongs to the opposition United Nationalist Alliance.

Right now, the supermajority of PDP-Laban is composed of the Nacionalista Party, Nationalist People’s Coalition, the National Unity Party, and the 57 allied party-list groups.

PDP-Laban, the party that carried Duterte in the May 9 elections, increased its membership from just three to 93 in the House.

Quezon City Rep. Winnie Castelo said Belmonte would lead the “constructive minority” in the lower legislative chamber.

On the other hand, Ilocos Norte Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas—perceived to be the incoming House majority leader in the 17th Congress— complained that “LP has been vacillating as to whether it will join the majority coalition or not.”

“The PDP-Laban has been bending to accommodate all the LP’s requests, even to have 30 or so members joining the majority

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said he has decided to run for speaker when Congress convenes on July 25, and losing the speakership race will automatically make him the leader of the House minority (or opposition) bloc.

coalition,” Fariñas disclosed.

“But since June 7, which was the first agreed upon date for the signing of its coalition agreement with PDP-Laban, the LP has been vacillating,” Fariñas said, revealing the reason there was no agreement between the two parties.

As far as the Senate is concerned, the members of the majority coalition are independent of each other.

“Here we don’t need to have a formal (coalition) agreement,” presumptive Senate president Aquilino Pimentel III said. “We work together.”

Pimentel, president of PDP-Laban and the lone party member in the Senate, reportedly enjoys the support of 18 senators, including five from the LP, which gives him excellent chances of being elected Senate president.

A

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Diversity matters: Filipino-Americans in the Obama Administration

By AJPress

(Part 1 of 2) The Obama administration has been touted as the most diverse in American history, according to a study made by UC Berkeley.

Of the many Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in President Barack Obama’s administration, there are fifteen (15) FilipinoAmericans who serve in different capacities.

In this two-part series, the Asian Journal features these FilAm appointees who have brought not only their skills and expertise to serve the public, but their Filipino heritage as well.

Nani Coloretti Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Hometown: Honolulu, HI What influenced you to pursue a career in government?

I have seen the Government’s capacity to help people and to be a force for good, and have experienced this first-hand. I grew up in a large family with few resources but lots of imagination, and a focus on seeking the highest level of education we could. When we fell onto hard times, we did not have to fall into despair because there was a safety-net. When I went to college, I was able to fund my education with a combination of federal programs as well as scholarships.

I majored in economics and Communications in college and wanted to apply this skillset to something that had broad and wide impact. I have found my work in Government to be fulfilling and mission-driven.

What challenges have you faced as a Filipino-American

Nani Coloretti at the Women’s History Month panel.

Photo from blog.hud.gov

working in government?

I think the broader challenge for me as a Filipino-American who is half Filipina is to make sure that my voice can be heard in an effective way. I think it helps that I come from a diverse state of people with different ways of communicating and interacting.

I also think that any challenge can also be an opportunity. So, being someone who is different from others in a table can be helpful, particularly if I am operating with both ears open and with curiosity.

What do you see as a large issue facing the Filipino-American community? How is your department working to address it? here at hUD, we gain visibility into many communities through our work enforcing the Fair housing Act. This law prohibits discrimination in housing transactions, including rentals and purchases. hUD and its state and local partners investigate nearly 8,500 housing discrimination complaints each year, including complaints from Filipino homebuyers and renters who may have experienced discrimination based

on their national origin.

For example, hUD recently filed a charge of discrimination alleging that a home loan company and their agents lured struggling hispanic homeowners into paying thousands of dollars for home loan audits that the homeowners never received and modification services that had little, if any, value. The companies allegedly exploited the homeowners’ limited-english proficiency and used deceptive marketing in Spanish, at times making false representations, in order to mislead them. Ultimately, many homeowners lost their properties due to foreclosure. hUD has also assisted Filipino families who faced similar circumstances, alleging targeting for illegal or unfair loan modification assistance because of their national origin. One of the complaints hUD investigated involved a Filipino American family in California and a company offering home loan modifications advertised in Tagalog and televised on a station specifically targeting Filipino audiences. The Filipino-American family (Complainant), after seeing the television program, signed a contract with the loan modification company and paid an advance fee of $3,000 with the understanding that the company would negotiate a loan modification with the lender within three months. At the advice of the company, the family stopped making mortgage payments, and contacted the company each time they received a collection notice.

All of the employees they spoke with were Filipino and their discussions were always in Tagalog.

Seven months later, the family received a notice of default from their lender, and learned that the company had allegedly failed to negotiate with their lender. At that time, they sought help from

their local consumer advocates and hUD. hUD resolved the complaint by facilitating a conciliation agreement between the two parties, where the loan modification company agreed to refund the Filipino family, pay $2,500 to the consumer advocates that assisted the family; post on their website a statement disclosing that free loan modification services and foreclosure prevention assistance are available from non-profit agencies, and send key personnel to fair housing training.

People who believe they are the victims of housing discrimination should contact hUD at (800) 669-9777 (voice), (800) 9279275 (TTY). Additional information is available online. housing discrimination complaints may also be filed at www.hud.gov/ fairhousing or by downloading hUD’s free housing discrimination mobile application, which can be accessed through Apple and Android devices.

What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration?

There are two things I am most proud of: helping create the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) after the passage of the Dodd-Frank Act in 2011, and helping finish the regulation to guide communities in their efforts to affirmatively further fair housing.

In both instances, I was able to help address the conditions for individuals and families that are working to achieve the American dream but who face the challenges of imperfect or unfair markets.

What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration?

I have been honored to work in and contribute to this historic AdPAGE B2

AJPress photos by Ding Carreon, Andy Tecson and Eric Anthony Licas

Team PH wins 175 medals, awards at ‘Olympics of performing arts’ Dance troupe JNS walks away with top honors — in heels By eric

Anthony LicAs AJPress

AFTer wowing judges for more than a week with high energy on-stage acrobatics, members of Philippine dance troupe, Junior New System (JNS), needed to up the stakes.

On Friday, July 15, the all-male ensemble floored the audience by donning glitter coated, six-inch platform heels as they leapt and somersaulted across the stage of the Terrace Theater in Long Beach, California. They won the 20th annual World Championship of Performing Arts’ (WCOPA) most prestigious award with a gravity-defying set of choreography that drew a roar of applause from both spectators and rival competitors.

JNS added the 2016 WCOPA Senior Grand Champion title to the collection of 175 medals and awards that Team Philippines took home from this year’s events. A group of more than 75 Filipino models, actors, instrumentalists, vocalists and dancers competed against performers from over

60 nations in what WCOPA fans and representatives have called “the Olympics of performing arts.” After nine days’ worth of music, drama and dance, the team walked away with 39 gold, 65 silver and 43 bronze medals. Filipino artists also garnered 21 overall division plaques and 10 industry awards.

Jerry Mercado, the man who oversaw scouting and auditionPAGE B4

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Features

Diversity matters: Filipino-Americans in...

PAGE B1 ministration. When the President took office, the U.S. economy was in the midst of the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

Seven years later, thanks the hard work and resilience of the American people, we have recovered, rebuilt, and emerged as the strongest, more durable economy in the world. We have experienced the longest streak of private sector job growth on record (six years), have cut the federal deficit by three quarters and more than 16 million more people have health insurance today.

I have learned that it makes a difference to focus on what matters most and to be relentless in achieving outcomes.

How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged?

There are many ways to become involved in government.

One of the best ways is to get involved in the issues and at the level that matters to you. It can be as simple as showing up at a community meeting for your local government or as far-reaching as choosing government as a career.

At a minimum, remember to vote on election day, either in person or in advance if your state allows it. Remember that government is not a set of institutions or buildings; it is really just a set of people.

We are lucky to live in a country that was set up to be responsive to all people. Government works best when everyone is involved and all voices are heard, when we stay optimistic about the future and when we hold ourselves and our government accountable for achieving the outcomes we want.

Camille Calimlim Touton Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science U.S. Department of the Interior Hometown: Las Vegas, NV What influenced you to pursue a career in government?

Public Service has always been our family business. My grandfather, Camilo, enlisted in the U.S. Navy in the Philippines at the end of World War II. My grandmother, Juanita, was a barangay (similar to a city ward or district) Captain in Dagupan

What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration?

I have found that the Administration is composed of dedicated professionals committed to the betterment of this country for the American people; a commitment that starts at the top. I am proud and honored to be a part of this team.

How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged?

It has been said that half of the battle is just showing up, and I truly believe this is the case for Camille Calimlim Touton more involvement within governCity, Philippines. They believed ment, at all levels. Attend city hall that there was no higher calling meetings, town halls, and Conthan to serve your country and gressional events. A sure way to community, and it is from their see change is to be a part of it. example that we are proud of our family’s combined military and public service of over a century to this country. That is what makes Special Assistant the USA so great- that a grandU.S. Commission on Civil daughter of a Barangay captain Rights* and a Naval steward can serve as Hometown: Houston, TX a political appointee in the Obama * Views expressed are personal and Administration. do not reflect those of the federal What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American government working in government?

I have been fortunate to have faced very little challenges because of my ethnicity, and credit this to the leadership within our Department. We believe that diversity is a strength to be celebrated, and our work is only better for it.

What do you see as a large issue facing the Filipino-American community? How is your department working to address it?

Protecting Filipino-American communities, and all of our communities, from the effects of Climate Change is a huge challenge and an integral part of our mission at the Department of the Interior. As stewards of nearly 20 percent of our nation’s public lands and waters, we are workJason T. Lagria at the 2011 MMTC conferenc ing daily to help build resiliency Video grab from You Tube Politic365 and tools within our communities, based on the best available What influenced you to purscience. sue a career in government?

What accomplishment(s) are I’m an American-born child you most proud of while working of Filipino immigrants. I am very in the Obama administration? grateful for the opportunity this My proudest professional ac- country gave to my parents to complishment is helping to move pursue a better life for their familegislation that President Obama lies and live the American dream. signed into law providing water Ever since I had that realization, certainty to seven Native Ameri- I knew I wanted to give back to can tribes and Pueblos; and now my country. That included spendworking at Interior to see that law ing at least part of my career in implemented. public service. I want to ensure

Jason T. Lagria

others have the same chance at success for themselves and their families.

What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government?

My own unique background makes me realize there are millions of other people each with their own unique story. It’s challenging when crafting civil rights policies to account for and consider all of those different perspectives and interests, but doing so makes better crafted and nuanced policy.

What do you see as a large issue facing the Filipino-American community? How is your department working to address it?

Immigration is obviously a very important issue for the Filipino American community.

For example, the visa backlog is something that affected my family directly. My mother waited over 20 years before some of her siblings could join her in the U.S. Sadly one of them passed away before he could receive a visa.

What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration?

Personally, I’m honored to be part of the most diverse administration in history. Whether it’s the diverse members of his cabinet and leadership at federal agencies, or the record number of Asian Americans President Obama has appointed to be judges (including the first Filipino American Article III federal judge), a government that reflects the diversity of the people it serves is a more responsive and legitimate government.

What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration?

As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” We’ve seen important wins and losses during the past eight years, but I’m proud to say this administration has made steady progress to advance justice for all Americans.

How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged?

Naturalize if you haven’t, register to vote, and vote!

Having leaders at all levels of government is important too.

Today’s city council and school board members are tomorrow’s representatives, senators, and presidents. And if you are in a leadership position, make you sure mentor the next generation of leaders.

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

Carla V. Bernal

Carla V. Bernal Deputy White House Liaison U.S. Department of Justice Hometown: Bay Area, Calif.

What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government?

One of the greatest strengths in our country and our government is its rich diversity. I am fortunate enough to work in an Administration whose Presidential Personnel Office works diligently to hire some of the most mission-driven leaders of all backgrounds.

As a Filipino-American, I am also proud to have this opportunity to be a part of the legacy of progress carried out by the Obama Administration. Even with this great opportunity, one challenge that I see in government is the need for even more representation among Filipino Americans and Asian and Pacific Islanders. It’s my hope that more Filipino Americans view civic engagement and public service as a way to bring our diverse experiences and skills in leadership roles throughout government.

What do you see as a large issue facing the Filipino-American community? How is your department working to address it?

One of the most important issues facing the Filipino American community today is human trafficking. There are over 10 million Filipinos working overseas, and of those 10 million, nearly 4 million are residing in the United States. Sadly, a considerable amount of these Filipino migrant workers are subjected to sex trafficking and/or forced labor in the edu-

cation, construction, nursing, agricultural, domestic work, and janitorial industries.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) takes human trafficking very seriously and is committed to addressing the issue head on. Last year, Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced that DOJ is expanding the Anti-Trafficking Coordination Team Initiative, an initiative aimed at streamlining federal criminal investigations and prosecutions of human trafficking offenses. Earlier this year, Attorney General Lynch announced the release of a video series and resource guide to about the forms of human trafficking in the United States.

While these programs have made an impact on the lives of many, there are still challenges ahead. To this end, I hope that government agencies of all levels continue to work with victim-led advocacy groups to hold traffickers accountable and provide victims with the support and justice they deserve.

I also hope that we, as Filipino American appointees, use our platforms responsibly to highlight the impact that human trafficking, and other issues, have made on the Filipino American community – so that we can become better allies to survivors and their family members.

What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration?

One of the accomplishments that I am most proud of was working alongside my colleagues at the Office on Violence Against Women to coordinate the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) 20th Anniversary Tour.

During the tour, I visited my hometown and heard firsthand from survivors of domestic and sexual violence what an impact VAWA funding has made in our community. The advocates welcomed us and toured us around a newly opened family justice center, a place where survivors can receive free services ranging from legal assistance to assistance with emergency shelter. The center was a safe haven for all survivors and their children. At the conclusion of this visit, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude – what an honor and privilege it was to visit a space that truly recognized what it meant to provide victim-centered services to all survivors.

PAGE B3

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Features

(702) 792-6678 • http://www.asianjournal.com

Diversity matters: Filipino-Americans in...

community? How is your department working to address it?

Addiction is a disease that PAGE B2 touches all Americans, and there which aimed to increase the is a significant treatment gap in number of Wounded Warriors Legislative Analyst the United States that is prehired into the Department of the Special Assistant venting communities across the Navy, Department of Defense, Office of National Drug ConU.S. Department of Defense other federal agencies, and the trol Policy, The White House country from getting the care Hometown: Sydney, Australia private sector. We were able to Hometown: Beale Air Force they need, Filipino Americans included. My work is focused on put over 1,000 Wounded WarBase, Calif. addressing the current opioid riors into meaningful jobs. I overdose epidemic by promotwas also part of the Gulf Coast ing public health strategies such Recovery Plan Task Force in as evidence-based prevention, 2010 where I provided support treatment, and recovery support to the Secretary of the Navy who services. was tasked by the President of What accomplishment(s) are the United States to develop a you most proud of while working long-term plan for restoration in the Obama administration? of the states affected by the oil In my current role, I have had spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This the opportunity to travel with work contributed to the passMichael Botticelli, who is the ing of the 2012 RESTORE Act. Director of National Drug Control Lastly, at the Pentagon Athletic Policy, and meet with individuCenter, I noticed that there was als who have been impacted by a 1000lb club powerlifting recthis epidemic. On a recent trip, I ognition wall for men but not Veronica Valdez met a young woman from New for women. I inquired as to why What influenced you to pur- there wasn’t one and I was told York who was about to celebrate sue a career in government? two years in recovery. Too many that women did not compete I was working on the Presi- in the powerlifting competipeople suffering from addiction dential Campaign in 2008 and tion even though it was open are not as lucky as she was. In once our candidate was elected to them. I decided to take the fact, more people died from drug into office, I realized there was challenge on. My first competioverdoses in 2014 than any year so much to do and I wanted to tion was not successful. I was on record. This young woman’s be part of it. triumph is an example of the the only female and I had just What challenges have you learned how to powerlift the day result of our efforts, and it made faced as a Filipino American before. However, by the time Joe Banez me even more proud to be part of Photo from Facebook/Congressional the work we do each day to help working in government? the second time, I was ready.

Asian Pacific American Staff Association save lives.

The challenge was not so Two other women competed much about my heritage, but with me and all three of us lifted What is your biggest takemore about not having the prior over 500lbs. Finally, we were What influenced you to pur- away from working in this government work experience able to lobby and get a 500lb sue a career in government? administration? or military background so my powerlifting recognition wall for It’s easy to forget the good that One of the biggest lessons learning curve was great. women. Now every time I go to government can do. I’m proud I will take from this experiWhat do you see as a large the Pentagon Athletic Center, I to say I’m a product of good ence is that each individual can issue facing the Filipino-Amer- pass by the wall and see it filled government. For example, my play a role in creating progress. ican community? How is your with strong powerful women. Dad served in the Air Force; good President Obama and his Addepartment working to ad- It continues to inspire me and government gave my family the ministration has empowered so dress it? means to live. I attended public many from all communities and other women.

One of the largest issues What is your biggest take- school and a public university; all walks of life to play a part in facing the Filipino-American away from working in this it was good government that al- moving our country forward. community is not being well administration? lowed me to get a quality educa- As a child, I could never have represented in senior leaderMy biggest takeaway was tion which ultimately led me to imagined having an opportunity ship positions in government or from working in this Adminis- the job I have today. Throughout like this to serve my President Congress. When I look around tration is how much of a positive my life, good government has and my country. It has been an my department, I don’t see very change we can make when we looked out for my community, experience of a lifetime. many Asian Americans sitting at all work together — career civil- and I want to contribute to those How can more Filipinos and the table making key decisions. ians, the military, and political efforts for families and communi- minorities become involved in In the Air Force, there has been appointees. I see it every day ties throughout the country. government (on all levels) and a big push for diversity and at the Department of the Air What challenges have you be more civically engaged? inclusion in the military and Force. faced as a Filipino American The decisions that local, state civilian side. It will take time and federal lawmakers make have What accomplishment(s) working in government? but it’s encouraging to see steps are you most proud of while I’ll admit that navigating the the potential to impact everything being made. working in the Obama admin- various aspects of the Federal around us, from the air that we What accomplishment(s) istration?

Government was a bit intimidat- breathe to the quality of educaare you most proud of while I believe more minorities ing. Thankfully, I have been lucky tion that we receive. These are working in the Obama admin- can be civically involved by enough to pick up new Titos, Ti- all issues that impact Filipinos istration? volunteering on campaigns and tas, Ates and Kuyas, who helped and minority communities diSince working in the Obama interning in their local govern- show me the way. I’m proud to be rectly, and we need to be at the Administration, I think I’m ment offices. For those who part of such a strong community table when decisions are made. most proud of establishing want to make a difference in that takes care of others in times So, find something in your comand leading the Department of their local communities, they of need. munity that you care about, pay the Navy’s Wounded Warrior should consider running for What do you see as a large is- attention to it, and contribute to Hiring and Support Initiative office. sue facing the Filipino-American the discussion.

Veronica Valdez

Joe Bañez

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JULy 21-27, 2016

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Daniel B. Prieto Director for Cybersecurity Policy National Security Council Hometown: McLean, VA What influenced you to pursue a career in government?

My desire to serve in government stems from a belief that government has the power to improve people’s lives for the better. My parents left the Philippines and came to the United States so that our family could benefit from the freedom and economic opportunity of the United States. As I grew up during the Cold War, it was clear to me that the U.S. and the other Western liberal democracies were expanding economic opportunity for their citizens, while authoritarian and communist regimes were clinging to power through repression and fear. My commitment to serve in government was deeply shaped by these experiences.

What challenges have you faced as a Filipino American working in government?

I haven’t faced any particular challenges as a Filipino American, per se. But, there is one challenge that I’ve seen confront Asian Americans on a number of occasions in government and in two decades in the private sector. The challenge has to do with finding mentors, and the critical role that mentorship can play as one advances in their career. In my time on Wall Street, for example, over half of my incoming training class was Asian or Asian American. Within a few years of the training program, though, the vast majority of the Asians and Asian Americans had decided to leave the bank for other opportunities. There were few, if any, Asian Americans in the senior leadership ranks of the investment bank I worked for, and it’s my strong belief that the professional progress of many younger Asian-American professionals can be impeded by an inability to see themselves reflected in the senior leadership of an organization or to find senior-level mentors. I observed the same challenges later in my career as an executive at a Fortune 100 technology company. Similarly, one does not see significant numbers of Asian Americans in leadership posts in the national security establishment.

What accomplishment(s)

Daniel B. Prieto

are you most proud of while working in the Obama administration?

Two things. First, I’m most proud of the reforms that the Administration has made to signals intelligence and other intelligence programs in order to protect privacy and civil liberties and to maintain the trust of the American people and people around the world. Second, I’m proud of the enormous progress we’ve made on cybersecurity.

I believe that the cybersecurity policies and programs that this Administration has put in place – on information sharing, designing and implementing strategies to transform how the Federal Government manages its own IT and cybersecurity, our work to counter and constrain adversaries, working to establish international cyber norms, and strengthening our ability to respond to incidents – will serve as cornerstones for U.S. cybersecurity for decades to come.

What is your biggest takeaway from working in this administration?

You can make progress on even the toughest most intractable issues when you have colleagues who are, at the same time, brilliant, optimistic, humble, and collaborative.

How can more Filipinos and minorities become involved in government (on all levels) and be more civically engaged?

Find out what issues you really care about and which issues really energize you. No matter your age, make a point of starting to get involved in those issues, whether it’s through volunteer or internship opportunities, professional associations or educational institutions, or through work.

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MABUHAY EXPO 2016. On Saturday, July 16, Filipinos in Las Vegas gathered inside the Boulevard Mall for the “Mabuhay Expo 2016 - Filipinos Connecting the Community” event, which aimed to bring Filipino families, organizations and businesses closer. The event included Zumba and MixxedFit classes, live entertainment and raffle drawing. Filipino community leaders and organizations were also awarded during the event for their outstanding commitment and volunteer work in the FIlipino community. Special guests during the event include Judge Cedric Kerns and Danny Tarkanian.

AJPress photos by Robert Macabagdal

AJPress photos by Ding Carreon, Andy Tecson and Eric Anthony Licas

Team PH wins 175 medals, awards at...

PAGE B1 ing for Team Philippines, earned this year’s award for Outstanding National Director.

“I’m so proud of the team,” Mercado said after Friday’s Grand Finales performances. Before the event, he told his team to remember that “you are no longer singing for yourself, but for your country.”

International bragging rights and about $400,000 dollars worth of scholarships were up for grabs in this year’s competition. The week-long event also gave contestants a valuable opportunity to promote their careers by performing in front of talent scouts and entertainment executives, as well as an international audience watching live in person or streaming the show from around the globe.

In addition to JNS, six other entrants from the Philippine delegation made it to the WCOPA’s last night of competition. Models David Priego Walker and Patricia Polamay took to the runway and posed for cameras in formal, casual and swimwear. Junior dance competitor Marco Unabia delighted audience members with

(First row, L-R) Melody Mojica, Executive Event Chair; Amie Belmonte,President- FilAm in Power-Political Organization with Equal Representation; Minda Banaria, co-chair, Awards Committee; Rozita Lee, Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance; Nilda McKellar, PresidentFilipino American Club of Las Vegas; Dr. Anita Daus, President, UST Nursing Alumni Association of Nevada ( USTNAAN); Linda Caampued, President, Las Vegas Professional Lions Club; Judge Cedric Kerns, Las Vegas Municipal Court Dept.3; Esmeralda Padilla- Gould, President- Las Vegas Spring Valley Lions Club; Luz Micabalo, President, Phil Am Charity Foundation (PACF); Salve Edelman , President, Rising Asian Pacific American Coalition for Diversity (RAPACD); Amelia Abello, President, Philippine Nurses Association of Nevada (PNAN); Cynthia Deriquito President, Seven Lakes San Pablo City Organization of Nevada; Jacque De Joya , President, Filipiniana Dance Company of Las Vegas; Frank Banaria, co-chair, awards committee.

(Second row L-R) Marlon Multo , on behalf of Marilyn Ante, President, Bikolnon Association of Las Vegas; Ruel Rodriguez, President, Cavite Association of Nevada (CAN); Dr. Daniel Fabito,M.D. President ,Phil Am Association of Nevada(PAAN); Marti Celemin, on behalf Marian Pearson -President, Philippine Bisayan Society of Nevada; Tom Tagacay , President, Fil Am Civic Action International (FACAI); Rey Lopez President, Filipino Veterans Group; Abraham Velasco President, Ilocano American Association of Nevada (IAAN); Dr. Michael StaJuana, President, Asian Community Resource Center (ACRC) ; Dr. Romualdo Aragon, MD, President, Fil-Am Heritage Foundation (FAHF) and UP Medical Alumni Society in America; Dr. Zosimo Micabalo, MD, Gawad Kalinga Nevada; and Bernie Benito, Chair, NaFFAA –State of Nevada.

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a light-hearted number inspired by the joys of reading.

Senior dance contestant Ira Sisa Aparra appeared to float effortlessly across the stage in a performance punctuated by leaping twirls and flowing arm gestures.

Veenen Nair, senior vocalist of Team Philippines, provided her own piano accompaniment to a rendition of Alicia Key’s “Girl on Fire.” She deftly showcased both of her talents and belted out soulful high-notes that inspired gasps and cheers from the audience.

“It was a big honor to be picked for the Philippines because the Philippines is a very strong team,” Nair told the Asian Journal.

Filipino contestants won both the Junior and Senior Grand Championship titles in 2013 and 2014. Vocalist Alexander Pantoja secured overall victory in the Junior division this year for team USA. JNS returns the senior title to the Philippines after the team was edged out in 2015 by dance group Chase and Jemima of South Africa in the junior competition, and vocalist Francoise Medley of Jamaica in the senior division.

SERVICES

Senior vocalist Jeremy Layug was just happy to have a chance to compete, according to his grandparents, Martin and Angelina De Castro. They said their grandson could hardly believe he had made it to the finals. ”This boy was just practicing in the choir. He doesn’t have a voice coach,” said Martin De Castro.

“Once you have the microphone and you’re on the stage do your best because that might be your first and last performance,” he said to his grandson prior to the start of the show.

Despite minimal formal training, Layug managed to fill the Terrace Theatre with the raw power of his voice on Friday night.

“I notice that most of the countries, when they perform, are very technical,” said WCOPA hall of famer and 2005 senior grand champion Jed Madela, who co-hosted Friday’s competition along with Australian performer Britt Goodwin. “When it comes to the Filipino, talent is heart. It’s in our being and once a Filipino stands on stage it’s a different performance, a different experience.”

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Your Immigration Solution atty. NaNCy Miller The fight against removal from the United States on criminal grounds does not begin with the Notice to Appear in Immigration Court. Defense should begin as early as when the non-citizen is questioned by the police or the prosecutor but no later than when he is charged with a crime.

Short of dismissal or acquittal, a carefully-drafted plea agreement is essential to avoid or mitigate the adverse immigration consequences that flow from a criminal conviction. Accordingly, for noncitizens, a competent criminal defense requires knowledge of U.S. immigration law.

The United States government can deny admission or deport an alien based on a criminal conviction. This is true for a non-citizen who has held a green card for

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MoNette aDeva Maglaya

Features

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JULy 21-27, 2016

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Why your criminal counsel should confer with immigration counsel decades. Only United States citizens are shielded from removal resulting from convictions.

Typically, the government commences proceedings to remove a non-citizen on criminal grounds after the criminal conviction and confinement, or when the person applies for a benefit such as naturalization, or upon return from a trip abroad.

Competent criminal defense must include an inquiry into the defendant’s immigration status.

Fortunately, much can be done in criminal court to insulate a non-citizen from removal in the future. But for this to happen, the alien must inform the criminal defense attorney, at the start of representation, that s/he is not a citizen of the U.S. In the American criminal justice system, the vast majority of cases settle through plea agreements.

Strategies and alternatives exist in negotiating with a prosecutor to devise plea agreements to avoid or mitigate immigration conse-

quences. The rationales for the differing approaches come from what has been coined “crimmigration”—where criminal law and U.S. immigration law intersect.

But it is unreasonable to expect that a criminal defense attorney, who may be expert in her field, will also be fully familiar with the United States’ labyrinthine immigration statutes and case law interpreting these statutes.

Therefore, competent representation requires that they consult a knowledgeable immigration attorney to assist them in formulating a defense or a deal.

Non-citizens should be fully informed as to the immigration consequences of potential convictions or pleas. The best source of that information is an immigration attorney – not the criminal defense attorney. In fact, the non-citizen should encourage her criminal defense counsel to team with immigration counsel to achieve the best plea agreement. Ideally, the alien should be proactive and

hire the immigration attorney.

The criminal defense attorney will often be receptive to the idea since competent representation and zealous advocacy FILeNAMe requires consideration of the immigration consequences of the plea.

An effective plea agreement can defeat removal at the first stage of a removal proceeding.

If the government cannot prove a removal charge, the Immigration Judge can terminate the proceeding. Termination is appropriate if the conviction is not for a crime that results in a ground of inadmissibility or removability. Crimes involving dishonesty (such as theft), drugs, violence or firearms are examples of crimes that may support removal from the U.S. Though the non-citizen may have committed such a crime, the one to which he pled or the sentence he was given may not result in inadmissibility or removal. The plea agreement controls and can protect the non-citizen from nega-

tive immigration consequences.

Other times the goal of the plea agreement is to preserve eligibility for relief from removal. The relief stage is the second stage of a removal proceeding. Assuming the Immigration Court concludes that the alien is removable as a result of the conviction, the non-citizen may be able to seek relief that will allow him or her to remain in the United States notwithstanding the conviction. Relief takes various forms – each of which has its own requirements and standards of eligibility. Whether the alien is eligible for any relief and, if so, what relief, and how strong a case can be made is within the purview of the immigration lawyer. This is another reason why consultation with an immigration lawyer is essential before a plea is entered into. The plea should be constructed in such a way that allows the alien to seek some relief and be able to remain in the U.S. Once a plea agreement is entered, it can be difficult, to undo.

Drafting a plea agreement to effectively stave off or counter a removal proceeding in the future is critical. For this to happen, the non-citizen defendant must pair his criminal defense counsel with immigration counsel. A non-citizen who is the focus of a prosecution should consult knowledgeable and experienced immigration and criminal defense attorneys as soon as she becomes aware that the government is interested in her. *** Reeves, Miller, Zhang & Diza Law Corporation’s offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City.

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

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Tales of entitlement “…I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled…”

— Tiger Woods

(Part 2 of 2)

WhAT of the pilot Joe Stack?

None of those who knew him had any inkling about the volcano of hate roiling in his brain about how the government and the IRS were making his life hell. he posted his screed and his manifesto online and there seems to be a complete disconnect about how he projects himself publicly and the infernal rage inside of him.

Consider that he owned the plane he used to destroy a building and kill and injure others. how many of us commoners can even afford to buy a plane or even fly one? Consider that he had a home, a family, and could take yearly trips to Norway to visit a daughter. Consider that he had the gift of music or that he could set up software companies. Did he want to be like Bill Gates? he took to venting his suicidal ire on the Internal Revenue Service.

I am sure that many people feel the same way about the taxman specially during tax season but to take it to this extreme level is just plain insane.

Did he honestly think that by causing the death of an innocent life and injuring others and causing the destruction of property, he stood a chance of changing something he felt passionately about?

This poor, unfortunate soul has no idea that in many other parts of the world, the story is much, much bleaker. In another lifetime, he could live the life of a scavenger in Isla Puting Bato.

Then perhaps, he would get perspective and know what it means to be grateful. In that life, Joe Stack will have a faint memory of how good he had it in a past life and perhaps, learn humility, gratitude and appreciation for the life he was given. here’s a thought. Imagine that reincarnation and karma and justice were realities of human life and that you will get born and reborn, until you pay for your sins, and finally get it right in the heart and head at some point.

Tiger looked like a contrite man being led to the gallows. I can sense his sincerity in his apology, although cynical pundits beg to differ arguing that the stunt is commercial in nature, a sorry attempt to save a lucrative brand and image. he is a smart man. he may have learned a thing or two from this very public humiliation. If he means it, he will find redemption, even forgiveness, but it won’t be easy. he acknowledges that he has strayed from his core spiritual

Health@Heart

Barrett’s esophagus and GERD

values and that his arrogance and pure sense of entitlement led him to believe that he was not subject to the same rules as ordinary mortals. In short, he thought he was a god. he took liberties with what he felt were fringe benefits of a fabulously rich and famous life. he has a long and tortuous road ahead of him. This epic lesson in humility should stick. Let’s hope he makes it. how do these stories end? Amy Bishop will spend her life in prison. Joe Stack is gone in smoke.

Amy and Joe have caused their families and the victims’families extreme sorrow.

All three were egocentric. They believed the universe revolved around them. Tigerwas the lucky one. he got a pass for now and a chance for a mid-course correction. It could be that he has some good karmic points stacked from a past life. If he wastes this one chance and if big, bad karma holds sway, he gets resurrected as a cockroach or maybe, as a golf ball.

To whom much is given, much is expected. ***

REUNION. Members of the United Class ‘61, the Emerald Jubilarians of 2016, took off their masks after their Mardi Gras “Farewell and Marching on to our Diamond” performance last Saturday, July 9 at the 37th Annual FEU -DNR School of Medicine Alumni Foundation Reunion and Scientific Convention at the Hilton-Union Square, San Francisco, which broke the house and given a “standing ovulation.”

Diversity scholarship from cable operator provides resources, says recipient

AMONG the ten college-bound recipients of a $3,500 Cox Diversity Scholarship presented during a recent breakfast ceremony at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas, are three female high school graduates for whom the award has various meanings.

One of the three recipients is 18-year-old Lynda Ly, who is preparing to attend the University of Nevada, Reno in the fall as a biology major with a public health minor.

Linda Ly “The Cox Diversity scholarship Grace Kang are in this country.” tions of Las Vegas are part of a is going to help provide the reNota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is Targeting a dual major in $175,000, five-year commitment sources needed to get the educaSVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To tion I want,” the east Career and biology and public policy at Rice by the cable operator to fund high send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ Technical Academy graduate said. University, 18-year-old Clark high education diversity scholarships. asianjournalinc.com “We’re proud to support stu“The scholarship has provided School graduate Mira Dani has a sense of relief by covering my her sights set on a career with the dents of all backgrounds as they World health Organization. begin their higher education jourcollege tuition and fees.” “education is such an im- ney,” said Michael F. Bolognini, As for 18-year-old Clark high School graduate Grace Kang, the portant part of my life because I vice president and market leader Cox Diversity Scholarship means truly believe that those who strive of Cox Las Vegas.

Like most diseases, certain GERD? Other scholarship recipients groups of individuals are more While Barrett’s is mostly as- more than simply being able to to be well educated have the loudest voices,” said Dani.

“My included Leslie Machabee, Sarah offset some of her tuition expenses prone to develop Barrett’s esopha- ymptomatic, people with GeRD gus. GeRD, as we have alluded usually has heartburn sensation especially with a long-term ca- parents have always encouraged Nicholl, Maya Rawls, hannah SchPhiliP S. Chua, to above, is linked to Barrett’s, at the pit of the stomach. Others reer goal focused on healthcare. me to stand up for what I believe neidman, Paloma Tapia, Brooke MD, FaCS, FPCS with 5 to 10 percent of those with have “chest” pains. Some have But that’s after she completes a is right and a good education Yannis and Ciera Wiltz.

Applicants for a Cox Diversity What is Barrett’s esopha- GeRD developing Barrett’s. The belching and sour eructation of major in political science at Yale has really given me the tools to do just that. This scholarship Scholarship must be graduating gus? following are the risk factors: food (back-up from stomach to University.

“This scholarship has initi- means a lot because I love that Las Vegas-area high school seBarrett’s esophagus is a condi- overweight, obesity, smokers, esophagus and throat), especially tion where the normal cell lining chronic GeRD of more than 5 when they lie down after a meal. ated my long-term goal, which is Cox Communications is not only niors with a minimum 2.5 grade (stratified squamous epithelium) years, long-term GeRD patient And more especially if the meal is to create a non-profit healthcare promoting education but they are point average. The must also proof the food pipe (the tube that con- below 30 and over age 50 and spicy hot and alcoholic beverage organization,” said Kang. “espe- also encouraging diversity in our vide demonstrated leadership and community service, and submit an nects the mouth to the stomach), needing medications regularly. is consumed. Stomach and food cially with my dad getting sick community.”

This year’s diversity scholar- essay on a significant leader from or a segment of it, is replaced Those taking aspirin or other anti- pipe fiberoptic “tele”scope with this year, I started to realize how with a different tissue similar to inflammatory drugs and those a lighted videocam (esophagogas- inefficient our healthcare systems ships from Cox Communica- the diverse community. the lining of the intestine. The with helicobacter pylori infection troscopy) with tissue biopsy will transformation is called intestinal of the stomach have higher pre- clinch the diagnosis for Barrett’s metaplasia. This occurrence is disposition to Barrett’s. Caucasian and GeRD. rare and affects about 1.6 to 3 per- males are more prone than other What are the complications cent of people. In rare instances males. In general, males are twice of GERD? and in some individuals, this be- more at risk than females, and Besides the discomfort, pacomes a pre-cancerous risk. so with those whose diet is high tients with GeRD are treated to Why is Barrett’s a concern? in fruits and vegetables. In spite prevent potential complications, This condition, while mostly of all this, Barrett’s is still a rare which include erosion ulcers of without symptoms and could only disease. the distal esophagus, bleeding, be an incidental finding and diagWhat is the prevalence of scarring, and constriction (causnosed during gastroscopy, is of GERD? ing swallowing difficulty), and, extreme interest to patients who In North America, 18.1 to as stated above, cancer of the have them and their physicians 27.8 percent; europe, 8.8 to 28.9 esophagus. because Barrett’s poses a slightly percent; Middle east, 8.7 to 33.1 What is the treatment? increased risk for causing a type percent; South America, 23 perFor Barrett’s, regular followof cancer of the esophagus called cent; Australia, 11.6 percent; Asia up endoscopy and tissue biopsy adenocarcinoma, which could as a whole, 14 to16 percent; and is the routine, unless the biopsy kill if not detected, treated, and the Philippines, 11 to 15 percent. shows the presence of cancer, J U Ly 3 0 followed up regularly. This rare Clinical observations reveal an in which case, surgery will be Cainta Catholic College 3rd Bi-annual Global Alumni Reunion cancer affects one-half percent of increasing prevalence of GeRD, the treatment. GeRD, which is people with Barrett’s. worldwide. Some patients with a risk for Barrett’s, on the other Cainta Catholic College, formerly Cainta Catholic School, of Cainta, Rizal Philippines are Barrett’s and GERD as- GeRD have been found to have hand, is aggressively treated with will hold its 3rd bi-annual global alumni reunion with Fiesta Filipiniana Theme on Satursociated? hiatal hernia. medications to reduce the acid day, July 30, 2016 in Anaheim, California. The Anaheim alumni reunion reconnects alumni Yes, Gastroesophageal Reflux What does hiatal hernia do? secretion in the stomach, with a from USA, Canada, Australia and Philippines. It is a reunion of high school alumni from the Disease (GeRD), where the oneThe food pipe, which is in class of drugs called proton pump ’50s, ’60s, 70s, 80s, ’90s and 2000s. The global alumni reunion started in 2012 in Toronto, way sphincter (valve) between the chest, goes down through a inhibitors, like esomeprazole Ontario Canada. In 2014, the second reunion was held in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. It takes the food pipe and the stomach hole in the diaphram (the tent- (Nexium), omeprazole (Prilosec) place every two years. The Anaheim Reunion will begin on Saturday morning, Meet and has become incompetent (loose like flat muscle that separates , lansoprazole (Prevacid) and and wide open), allowing acid the abdomen from the chest) pantoprazole (Protonix), etc.

Greet Event, from 9 am to 12 pm at Pearson Park in Anaheim, California. The Reception, and other gastric chemicals to to connect with the stomach in Lifestyle changes will include Dinner and Dance will start at 6 pm at Embassy Suites-Anaheim South, 11767 Harbor Blvd. back-up into the lower end of the the abdomen. This hole is called normal weight maintenance, Garden Grove, California. Santacruzan festival parade participated by alumni will open the esophagus, is linked to GeRD. It a hiatus. If this hole becomes avoidance of tight clothing and evening’s reunion and gala events. For information, contact the Reunion Planning Commitincreases the risk for the develop- too large, the stomach, which is of lying down immediately after tee at ccs.ccc.international@gmail.com. ment of Barrett’s, because those normally in the abdomen, could a meal, abstinence from smokchemicals normally produced by move up to the chest through the ing and avoidance of alcohol and SEPTEMBER 5-9 the stomach to aid in food diges- hole. If this happens, it is called spicy foods, elevation (6-8 inches) tion are irritants to the esophagus. hiatus hernia, and this makes of the head of the bed to reduce 2016 PICPA International (US-RP Global Convention This situation also raises the risk the esophagogastric sphincter reflux of acids from the stomach The Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) International proudly for chemical burns, scarring, nar- loose, allowing gastric contents to the esophagus, and follow-up presents the “2016 PICPA International (US-RP) MRA Global Convention” on Sept. 5-9 rowing, and cancer of the lower to back up to the stomach causing endoscopy. The side effects of at the Orleans Hotel & Casino (located at 4500 West Tropicana Ave. Las Vegas, Nevada, end of the esophagus which is reflux esophagitis. hiatus hernia the acid reducer pills will also 89103). All Philippine accountants are invited! For more information, please contact connected to the stomach. Unlike is found in only 20-30 percent be managed. In cases of severe Danilo Abuan (President): (702) 401-5118 or Chito Lopez (Vice Pres. Las Vegas Chapter): the stomach lining, the esopha- of those with reflux esophagitis. tissues changes, any of the fol(702) 767-1099. geal lining is not resistant (and is Severe cases of hiatal hernia will lowing procedures may be used: very sensitive) to acids and gastric require surgery to reduce the size Radiofrequency ablation, Cryojuices. of the hole to normal and keep the therapy, Photodynamic therapy, If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the What causes Barrett’s esoph- stomach in the abdomen. endoscopic mucosal resection, details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com agus?

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B july 21-27, 2016 • lAS VEGAS ASIAN jOuRNAl

Summer fashion trends

Summer nights We are not talking about night swimming and beach parties here (that will be our next category). I say summer nights that require

By Monet Lu you to still be in fashion and in season, at the same time. These Oh yes, it’s summertime. As are your evening get-togethers or the temperatures warm up, we club nights.

Be the star of the summer night are inspired by the season’s hottest trends. Whether it’s patterned with a crisp basic black and white party dresses or bold printed dress with accessories and some shorts, these summer fashion sky-high platforms.

And speaking of black, who trends are guaranteed to have you says you can’t wear leather in looking hot this summer. summer? Yes you can, Catwoman.

Casual days Summer mornings are the best. You can strut your fancy leather Stand out by wearing nautical shorts or mini and still be in the stripes and finish the look effort- mood for some dancing. Pair this lessly with some classic summer with a flowy white top and your accessories such as Wayfarer favorite little black booties, and sunglasses and gladiators. If you you’re ready to purr!

Lastly, I would definitely add a are the low-profile type, you can still show off your shape in louche sexy standout skirt in your sumlow-key separates. Wearing short mer wardrobe list. Given that shorts is a given but you don’t you cannot wear it to work, then need to look like you just woke wear it when you’re out with the up. Add a feminine touch to the girls. Yes, please?

Fun in the sun functional summer staple with Now we move on to poolside some pretty pops of color and stylish extras. A patterned bright skirt fashion trends.

Cosmo Magazine writes: paired with a classic black tank is “If you’re hitting up the beach a great option for those who are or heading to the pool, slip into a not comfortable mixing prints.

I also suggest that you try sexy retro printed two-piece like T. dresses that are easy to wear. A Swift’s. Or, go for a solid, yet still slip-on-and-go dress is a staple bright suit like the singer’s friend summer outfit. As for the colors, is flaunting here. Either way, loud stick to pastels. They are perfectly colors go hand in hand with sumsuitable for summer, and pairs mer and don’t just settle for black or neutral-toned swimwear.” well with black shades.

And must we not mention the Some people love denim. This classic fabric has been has been beach uniform — the short shorts? around for decades. It may sound Who wears short shorts? Well, just outrageous but you can still wear about every other girl in America, denim during summertime. It that’s who. Get in fashion by sportall depends on how smart you ing short shorts and slip into a update your denim wardrobe comfy tank top. From the beach to collection. Opt for chic skirts and the street, sexy sandals and bodytailored shirts. Thrown in some baring silhouettes are the joys of towering sandals in the mix and summer’s simplicity.

If you’re not going to the beach layered pendants for a casual, yet but will be out with the girls polished look.

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Atty. MAriA ritA reyes-stuby And bernAdette bretAnA

until sundown, cover up with a white chic blazer “beauty-punish” your feet with a studded strappy pumps.

Summer dressing is a burden if you let it; summer staples — shorts, stripes, sundresses and swishy skirts — can be the “entrée” in your summer outfit menu that makes you gag. But given a little update, it will prove its staying power and be your most favorite “dessert.” *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

Barrett’s and GERD

and Esophagectomy whichever one is clinically indicated.

What is low-acid GERD diet?

Foodwise, the basic principle is to eat natural low-acid foods. Many fruits, vegetables and drinks (soft drinks and fruit juices) have high acidic contents. Some of the low-acid foods include, fish (poached, grilled, baked, not fried), lean poultry (remove skin) and meats (baked, grilled, steamed, not

fried), oat meal, brown rice, couscous, potatoes, bananas, water melons, cantaloupes, honeydew, broccoli, green beans, celery, cauliflower, asparagus, egg whites, skip the yolk (which will cause symptoms). As far as the ph of food (measure of acidity, the lower the ph the more acidic) is concerned as a guide, choose foods with ph of 5 and higher to prevent symptoms. You may also Google the ph levels of various food items.

Immigration Corner

*** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com

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(Part 1 of 2) SIGNING up to be a soldier for a country not initially your own and be willing and able to defend and die for its ideals, is probably the most courageous and noble act a person can do. After all, it is undeniable that going to war carries with it the risk of losing one’s life. The United States, the leader of the free world, fully recognizes the importance of that supreme sacrifice. The laws granting citizenship to foreigners or non-U.S. citizens who fight with U.S. military forces have evolved to address the realities of global conflicts since World War I, giving rise to distinct ways of acquiring U. S. citizenship.

There are unique circumstances when a person can enlist even without a green card and serve honorably during specific periods of conflicts, such is the case of World War II FilipinoAmerican veterans who fought side by side with the Americans.

Said WWII veterans were not required to be lawful permanent residents in the U.S. but were automatically vested with U.S. citizenship after submission of proof of service. These sets of rules come under the wartime statutes and still persists, especially post 09/11/2001.

In recent years, emphasis has been placed on peacetime naturalization law, when one enlists with the U.S. military

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Being in the US military while residing in the U.S. Joining the military does not necessarily require an applicant to be a U.S. citizen, only that one is in a valid permanent resident status (LPR).

A few other groups that are allowed to enlist are: (a) citizens of countries with which the U.S. has a treaty - the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Palau and Micronesia; (b) some foreigners legally in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa if it is determined that enlistment is “vital to national interest”. At any given time, the U.S. strategically opens its doors to immigrants from all over the world who can potentially “beef up” its military forces.

The benefits of being part of the U.S. military, vis-à-vis, being an immigrant, are probably widely unknown. Immigration benefits and advantages are numerous; not just for the military member but also for spouses, dependent children and to a certain extent, their parents.

A green card holder (U.S. lawful permanent resident or “LPR”) who becomes a member of the U.S. armed forces, upon compliance with military service requirements, can expeditiously apply for U.S. citizenship without being required to comply with 3 or 5 year residency in the United States, among others. Further, in the event that the soldier is injured or develops a disabling condition caused or aggravated by military service and eventually dies, said soldier can be granted U.S. citizenship, posthumously.

Obviously, the soldier’s death would benefit people who are his or her kindred , i.e., spouse,

children or parents. The U.S. Department of homeland Security prioritizes resources to take care of dependents and immediate relatives of American soldiers, alive or not. It is their unconditional and fearless service in the U.S. military that matters. For the spouse and children of those who have lost their lives because of military service, they can self-petition, as immediate relatives of the U.S. citizen-soldier, whose citizenship is recognized, posthumously. Spouses (who are LPR) of U.S. citizen soldiers who are still in service, are privileged to avail of an expeditious application for U.S. naturalization, upon compliance with other requirements. For non-military under normal conditions, applicants for naturalization are required to be physically present in the United States for a certain period of time before they can qualify and be granted citizenship. For soldiers and their spouses, time spent in other countries where deployed will be counted in their favor.

Other benefits for qualified relatives of military personnel will be discussed in the next article. *** Maria Rita Reyes-Stuby is a licensed attorney in Michigan. She is a graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Law. She specializes in immigration and practices in Las Vegas, Michigan, California and other states.

Bernadette Bretana, a graduate of the Ateneo Law School and Ms. Stuby are licensed attorneys in the Philippines.

Please call @702-403-4704 or email her at stubylaw@aol.com or go to www. mrstubylaw.com for any questions on this article.

Summertime is the perfect time for healthy, aerobic activity

by Daniel W. Heller Pharm D. Smith’s Food & Drug Stores

WhILE I don’t like to emphasize indoor versus outdoor activity in terms of getting fit, as both are equally beneficial health-wise, bright and sunny weather does give us a special kind of motivation to take advantage of the weather to jump start our personal fitness routines and start developing healthy habits.

Aerobic activity is beneficial for both the mind and body and can keep us living longer and healthier. There are so many benefits to regular physical activity: it increases stamina and endurance; reduces risk of heart disease and stroke; strengthens immune system, heart and lungs; allows us to lose weight and keep pressure off of bones and joints; decreases blood pressure; and lowers blood sugar and cholesterol.

Specifically for outdoor activity, many people don’t desire or can’t afford memberships to athletic clubs, however exercising outside is free. What I impress upon those that I counsel at the pharmacy is that our main goal is to develop a healthy habit. I try to encourage people to get outdoors early, for a variety of reasons. Exercising is very good for overall mood, as natural endorphins are released, causing less stress and leaving the mind and body feeling generally better, especially early in the day.

The later in the day, we run the risk of sleep disturbance and it’s generally more difficult to find motivation.

In order to turn an exercise regime into a habit, try to stay focused for the first 2 or 3 weeks

on your desired routine and the rest will take care of itself.

For a person who is new to an exercise regimen, there are certain steps we want to take to introduce regular physical activity: • Determine the reason(s) “why.” There is a far better chance of making exercise a habit if you determine the reasons why you want to get in better shape in the first place.

It can be anything from helping to control symptoms and side effects of other health conditions, to increasing self-esteem and overall well-being, to fitting into a wedding dress before the big day. The reason itself isn’t as important so much as understanding why you need and/or want to do more to stay active.

This will help you feel more invested in your efforts.

• Write down your goals.

After determining the reason(s), set a goal and write it down somewhere, preferably somewhere where you can easily see it. Be specific (for example, I want to walk three days a week for 30 minutes, every morning before 6 a.m. before it gets too hot outside), which is especially helpful if you do not have a workout buddy. Again, you will feel more invested in your efforts.

• Find a workout partner.

Speaking of, typically we tend to talk ourselves out of exercising when we’re only dealing with ourselves. having that one person, whether it be a spouse, friend, personal trainer, etc., who you can hold yourself accountable to will help you stay on track and motivated.

• Find a physical activity that you not only enjoy, but gets the

heart rate jumping! There are a variety of suitable outdoor activities that will help you meet your goals, choosing one that is enjoyable and doesn’t feel like a chore will help you create the habit you want. Ideally, you’ll want to also choose something that will involve the major muscle groups which is the arms and legs. You’ll also need to focus on getting your heart rate up, to make all of your efforts worth it. An easy way to determine this is to try speaking during the exercise. If you can calmly speak in complete sentences, you need to increase the intensity. Activity should be sustained continuously for at least 20 minutes versus breaking it up in 4-5 minute increments, for maximum benefit. however, feel free to work up to that time if you are a beginner.

Exercising outside, we want to make sure we do it safely and take the proper precautions.

Drink plenty of water before heading out (10-20 ounces) and during the workout, and drink even more if strenuous activity is on the agenda. Five minutes of light walking to warm up and really stretch those key areas, like quadriceps, hamstrings, etc., to help prevent any injuries. Finish with a light cool down, like a slow jog or walk, will decrease the chance of cramping. Lastly, before embarking on any new exercise regimen, consult your physician to make sure the activity will not aggravate any medical conditions you may have.

••• Dan W. Heller, Pharm D., is Patient Care Coordinator for Smith’s Food & Drug Stores.

The Nightingales in Las Vegas ThE Nightingales is an impressive vocal duo featuring two of the youngest yet most formidable classical singers in the Philippines today. They bring the magic of opera into the fore with a rare blend of musicality and perform a widerange repertoire consisting of Opera arias, Broadway classics and popular standards in a unique style of singing, bel canto, or the beautiful voice.

These beautiful singers were carefully honed at the Makiling high School for the Arts and eventually pursued their studies in vocal performance at the University of the Philippines, College of Music.

As members of the country’s premier choir and internationally-acclaimed ensemble “The Philippine Madrigal Singers,” Bianca Camille Lopez and Ma Rhina Paula Cruz continue to intensify their artistry as they travel extensively around the world.

The Concert Tour in Las Vegas will be held on August 12 at 7pm at the Celebrity Center Las Vegas (located at 2761 Emerson Avenue,Las Vegas.

NV 89121).

The project is proudly present by The Asian Community

Bianca Camille Lopez

Ma. Rhina Paula Cruz

Resource Center in cooperation with the Our Lady of Las Vegas Catholic Church Filipino Choir for the benefits of OLLVC for details please call Dr. Michael StaJuana, 702-9088143; Ka-

trina Esguerra, 702-5238460.

Cesar Noel Estillore, 702-2361817; Elizabeth toted Bennett, 702-376-4512 and Romy Guideng, 702-243-1817. (Dr. Michael StaJuana)

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • JULy 21-27, 2016

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B july 21-27, 2016 • lAS VEGAS ASIAN jOuRNAl

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