New York & New Jersey -- August 19 -- 25, 2016

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Volume 9 – Issue 47 • 20 Pages

AUGUST 19-25, 2016 Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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Duterte warns Sen. De Lima: I have witnesses against you Senator’s driver may turn witness by alexis

rOMerO Philstar.com

mANILA — Sen. Leila de Lima’s supposed lover, who allegedly collected money from drug personalities to support her senatorial bid, may turn witness against her, President Rodrigo Duterte said Thursday, Aug. 18.

“He (lover) can become a witness.

Why would I file a case?” Duterte told reporters in Cotabato City when asked why cases have not been filed against de Lima’s married driver who is allegedly having an affair with her.

“I can use many people. I can use a prisoner. I can use her lover who is her driver,” he added.

DATELINE

Duterte believes de Lima has no one to blame but herself for the expose.

“She created the scandal. She knows she is a public official,” the president said.

Asked to react to de Lima’s appeal for him to spare her family, Duterte replied: “If you are in public office de Lima, your life is an open book.”

Duterte insisted that he did not go overboard when he revealed supposed private details about de Lima, who has been critical of his war against illegal drugs.

“I did not, but she did. She accused policemen of a lot of things. P*t**g in*, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte continues the policemen are dying,” the presi- his tirades against Sec. Leila De

USA

FRom THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

Trump: ‘Extreme vetting’ needed for immigrants to US REPUBLICAN presidential nominee Donald Trump on monday, August 15 proposed a “new screening test” for immigrants seeking to enter the United States.

Delivering a foreign policy address in Youngstown, ohio, Trump echoed the call for stricter immigration — a cornerstone of his campaign — and reiterated his belief that “radical Islamic terrorism” is the biggest threat the world faces today.

He went on to cite examples of terrorist attacks on U.S. soil — including the Boston marathon bombings and the San Bernardino and orlando mass shootings — and abroad.

To defeat ISIS, Trump proposed a “new immigration policy” with “new screening procedures,” similar to the ideological screening test used during the Cold War era.

“A Trump Administration will establish a clear principle that will govern all decisions pertaining to immigration: we

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Former President Bill Clinton stumps for Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton on Friday, August 12 at the Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Clinton was one of the speakers during the historic presidential forum -- featuring representatives from four presidential campaigns -- organized by APIAVote and the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA).

AJPress photo by Robert Macabagdal

Duterte slams UN for ‘stupid Clinton, Trump campaigns court AAPI voters proposition’ against drug war Lima.

Philstar.com photo

dential forum held at Caesars Palace on Friday, August 12 drew an estimated crowd of 3,000. Watch parties were also organized in 20 states.

LAS VEGAS — The Hillary Clinton and Donald In addition to the campaigns of the Democratic Trump campaigns were in this city last week in an and Republican presidential nominees— representeffort to make pitches to Asian American and Pa- ed by former President Bill Clinton and Utah Attorcific Islanders (AAPIs), a crucial electorate that has ney General Sean Reyes, respectively—Libertarian the potential to be the swing vote this November. candidate Gary Johnson and Green Party candidate Co-hosted by APIAVote and the Asian American Dr. Jill Stein appeared at the beginning of the proJournalists Association (AAJA), the 3 1/2-hour presiu PAGE A3

by Christina

M. Oriel

AJPress

by Dana

siOsOn AJPress

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte slammed the United Nations (UN) for backing a “stupid proposition” in criticizing the administration’s campaign against illegal drugs, on monday, August 17.

“Here comes the UN, easily swayed and coming on a very stupid proposition,” Duterte said in his speech at the Philippines’ police headquarters, Camp Crame.

In a statement on Wednesday, August 3, UN office on Drugs and Crime (UNoDC) Executive Director Yury Fedotov joined UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in “condemning the apparent endorsement of extrajudicial killings” in the Philippines.

UNoDC then made a proposition “to bring drug traffickers to justice with the appropriate legal safeguards in line with international standards and norms and promote prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration approaches based in evidence, science, public health and human rights.” ‘’Why would the United Nations be so easy to be swayed into interfering in the affairs of this republic?” Duterte said.

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DOT Sec. Teo asks Fil-Am community to become Ambassadors of PH tourism ers of the economic growth of the Philippines. In 2015, the country welcomed 5.3 million visitors and DEPARTmENT of Tourism Sec. Teo said the country is poised (DoT) Secretary Wanda Corazon to exceed this by the end of 2016.

“This industry accounts for a Tulfo Teo attended this year’s Fiesta in America as its featured big share of the country’s Gross guest speaker, both at the People’s Domestic Product but beyond Ball on the 12th and the ribbon- these numbers, the growth of tourcutting and opening ceremonies ism continues to translate to more Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo aims to develop jobs and providing employment more tourism destinations in the Philippines. the following day.

AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya Tourism is one of the major drivu PAGE A2

by MOMar

G. Visaya

AJPress

The complexity of the Asian American electorate

by Klarize

MeDenilla AJPress

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Judge approves sale of abandoned ship in Georgia

Stranded Filipino sailors may be home soon

FILIPINo sailors abandoned on a cargo ship off the coast of Georgia since April may be heading home soon thanks to a Federal Court Decision delivered on monday, August 15 permitting the vessel’s sale.

A legal dispute between creditors and the owners of the Newlead Castellano kept 15 crewmembers from returning to their home countries, according to the Associated Press. The boat was seized by federal marshals after unloading 20,000 tons of sugar in Savanna and was eventually put up for auction when its owners defaulted on their debt.

Visa restrictions prevent the 13 Filipino sailors, one Greek engineer and one Romanian electrician — who stayed behind to man the shipping vessel — from step-

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COURT ACTION. Martial law victims led by Rep. Neri Colmenares turn to the Supreme Court on Monday, Aug. 15, in their bid to scuttle a Duterte administration plan to bury the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos at Libingan ng mga Bayani.

Inquirer.net photo by Marianne Bermudez

Malacañang: Marcos burial will push through unless SC issues TRO

like that, it will proceed as planned,” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said in a news conference.

“If there are any motions and any cases filed, mALACAñANG on Wednesday, August 17, said late and former President Ferdinand let it proceed and then president will respond marcos’ burial at Heroes’ Cemetery will push as he sees fit. The president will abide by the through unless the Supreme Court (SC) will is- rulings.”

Although September 18 is the date eyed for sue a temporary restraining order (TRo).

“It seems that everything is starting to move marcos’ burial, Abella however, clarified that according to arrangements, so unless there is a no official burial date has been set yet. u PAGE A2 TRo (temporary restraining order) or anything

by Dana

M. siOsOn

AJPress

ASIAN Americans are the fastest-growing demographic in the United States.

In the last five years, the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community increased by 19 percent, according to the United States Census Bureau.

And it’s not stopping there. A recent UCLA study reported that by 2040, the AAPI voter population in the U.S. is projected to double with an expected population of 12.2 million.

Current naturalization trends can explain this phenomenon as hordes of Asian immigrants are making their way to the U.S. Since 2012, approximately 60 percent of newly eligible AAPI individuals have gained the right to vote, meaning that the 2016 election will have the most diverse electorate by far, according to a 2016 report from Pew Research Center.

With the AAPI community growing exponentially, there’s no doubt that their presence at the polls later this year will be

crucial.

Both the Democratic and Republican parties have announced efforts to further engage with the AAPI community, but their needs are still not adequately addressed.

The multicultural pool of the AAPI community is a major drawback. The Asian community is comprised of hundreds of cultures, ethnicities, nationalities and identities — it would be laborious to canvass to each individual group. moreover, the linguistic diversity of Asians is a significant limitation when navigating voting processes.

Another issue is the minimal studies on AAPI voters. The scarcity of these findings was described by George Gao, digital producer at Pew, who said that most studies on ethnic subgroups don’t yield significant AAPI data because the participant pool is usually too small.

In short, to simply tackle the “Asian American” vote is far too broad and replaces individual engagement with generalization, according to Gao.

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A AUGUST 19-25, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

From the Front Page

Duterte warns Sen. De Lima: I have…

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dent said.

Previous reports identified de Lima’s alleged lover as Ronnie Palisoc Dayan. Duterte alleged that de Lima had built a house for Dayan, whom he also accused of being involved in narcotics.

“Here is an immoral woman, flaunting well of course in so far as wife of the driver was concerned, it’s adultery. Here is a woman who funded the house of her lover and yet we do not see any complaint about it,” the president said in a speech delivered in Camp Crame on Wednesday. He has yet to show proof of the allegations.

The bungalow house allegBUDGET FOR REAL CHANGE. Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno hands over a copy of the proposed 2017 General Appropriations Act to edly built by De Lima for Dayan Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and other lawmakers. The “Budget for Real Change” allocates resources to programs and projects on the is located in Barangay Galarin in Duterte administration’s 10- point socioeconomic development agenda.

Inquirer.net contributed photo Urbiztondo, Pangasinan, The Star reported on Wednesday, Aug. 17.

President’s lawyer: She had it coming Malacañang officials were also with police duty or not, have it in- reveal the names soon.

PAGE A1 t “There are many names. There quick to justify Duterte’s tirades As the one who ordered the vestigated…that way, we can be are more this time,” Inquirer quot- against de Lima. campaign against drugs, the transparent.”

Chief Presidential Legal Counpresident said he claims “full and Duterte also advised policemen ed Gordon.

Ejercito said that the names in sel Salvador Panelo said Duterte sole responsibility” on the recent to ignore the statements from the the list “give protection” to drug was angered by de Lima’s allegadeaths of suspected criminals but UN and other critics. expressed that his government As of Monday, August 15, the traders.

He added that most of them cannot be investigated for geno- Philippine National Police (PNP) cide over the killings. said 612 drug suspects have been were past and present officials, including members of the House ‘’UN, you can only investigate killed in police operations.

A1 t [for] genocide when you kill withOn the other hand, the Philip- of Representatives, mayors and PAGE “The process is ongoing, noout giving a hoot, if you are killing pine Daily Inquirer has recorded councilors. body’s rushing anything,” he said.

Last week Duterte named the children, whole community. But 646 from June 30 to August 15 in SC to conduct oral argument 159 “narco officials” which inwhen you kill criminals who fight their “kill list.”

On Wednesday, August 17, Philcludes incumbent and former lowith you, and criminals who fight New ‘narcolist’ ippine Supreme Court (SC) Public amongst themselves, that is [our] According to Senators Richard cal executives and lawmakers, Information Office (PIO) chief Atty. duty,’’ he said.

Gordon and JV Ejercito, the presi- judges, and police officers, while Theodore Te announced that an ‘’But we will answer, for every dent has a new list of politicians in July, Duterte named five “narco oral argument on the petition incident that involves killing of suspected to be involved in the generals” as part of his campaign against Marcos’ burial will be conhuman being, whether connected illegal drug trades and is likely to against illegal drugs. n ducted on Wednesday, August 24.

The 30-page petition — led the US to become Philippine tour- by former Bayan Muna party list Rep. Satur Ocampo and Neri Colism ambassadors themselves.

PAGE A1 t “If you can entice even one menares — urged the court to isSec. Teo said that she decided and livelihood to many Filipinos. to accept the offer to attend the among your numerous friends to sue a temporary restraining order Last year, the industry employed Fiesta in America in New Jersey visit the Philippines, we will see our (TRO) against the implementation approximately 5 million people, to ask the Fil-Am community here arrivals soar and that will translate Memorandum dated Aug. 7, 2016, accounting for 12.7% share in to make this tourism aspiration a to more jobs for your kababayans issued by Defense Secretary Delfin back home and better economic N. Lorenzana. national employment,” Sec. Teo reality.

The Memorandum states Presi“Your second home – the growth for our Philippines,” Sec. shared in her speech. dent Rodrigo Duterte’s order for Tourism is an industry that United States of America – is the Teo added.

From small things like posting Armed Forces of the Philippines supports and promotes inclusive second biggest visitor-generating growth and the proceeds go to market,” Sec. Teo announced. “In of vacation photos on social me- (AFP) Chief of Staff General Riwhere it matters – putting food on 2015 alone, it accounted for 15 per dia to sharing stories during par- cardo R. Visaya to start the prepacent of the total arrivals, providing ties about new destinations in the rations for the interment and the the table for many families.

Under the leadership of Presi- 779, 217 visitors. With your help, country, the community members transfer of Marcos’ remains to Libdent Rodrigo Duterte, the depart- we hope to see this number bal- are living testimonials who can ingan ng mga Bayani.

“For how can such honesty and ment is working hard to post a loon to hopefully reach the 1 mil- help drive more tourists to consider exploring the various places integrity be promoted and defendhigher growth in tourism as a sec- lion mark by the end of 2016.” ed when a dishonest and disgraced The secretary also said that she the Philippines had to offer. tor that is identified in the 10-point “For all of you who have not public official, such as Ferdinand economic agenda of his adminis- is looking forward to count on the u PAGE A5 E. Marcos, after his removal from millions of Filipino-Americans in tration.

Duterte slams UN for ‘stupid proposition’…

tions that he was behind the extrajudicial killings in Davao City.

“She (de Lima) had it coming.

She has been repeatedly warned because she was defaming the president,” Panelo said.

“Remember, the information given by President Duterte is in relation to her being a public (official)… So that encompasses within the duty of the president to serve and protect the people and to inform the state of the nation of whatever is being done by the government officials and whatever situation we are in now,” he added.

Despite criticisms that the president was being misogynistic when he criticized de Lima, Panelo said there is no need for Duterte to apologize for his statements.

“Under the Constitution, all public officials are accountable to their acts. So if you do an illegal act or an act which is contrary to the demeanor of a public official, then you open yourself to criticism,” Panelo said.

Panelo also claimed that the attacks against de Lima were not meant to silence Duterte’s critics.

“Many have expressed opposition to the president’s policies but he (Duterte) did not say anything about them. I think what the president is saying is if you want to appear as righteous, you better be sure that what you’re doing from the very start is righteous, too,” he said.

When reminded that Duterte himself had two partners, Panelo replied: “He never denied having girlfriends. He was open to the public. Besides, he is a bachelor.

He has not committed any crime.”

Duterte’s marriage with his former wife Elizabeth Zimmerma has been annulled. De Lima’s marriage has likewise been annulled.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said Duterte did not like de Lima’s approach when she linked the spate of killings with his war on drugs. “(The president) is appalled

by Senator De Lima’s history of jumping to conclusions about the president’s culpability without sufficient evidence, lack of appreciation of the magnitude of the men-

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Malacañang: Marcos burial will push…

DOT Sec. Teo asks Fil-Am Community...

BURIAL PROTEST. Hundreds of rallyists gather at the Lapu-Lapu monument at Rizal Park in Manila on Sunday, Aug. 14 to protest the planned hero’s burial of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on September 18.Inset photos show Sen. Risa Hontiveros as she addresses the crowd and former interior secretary Manuel Roxas II meeting former senator Rene Saguisag.

ManilaTimes.net photos

power, can snatch respect and thereby re-write not only history but his culpability via the back door of declaring and celebrating him a hero?” the petition read.

The SC also asked the respondents to comment regarding the plea within five days or until 10 a.m. on Monday, August 22.

Respondents of the petition were former First Lady Imelda Marcos, Defense Secretary Delfin

Lorenzana, Rear Admiral Ernesto Enriquez, and AFP chief of staff General Ricardo Visaya.

Other petitioners include Trinidad Repuno, Bienvenido Lumbera, Bonifacio Ilagan, Maria Carolina Araulo, Samahan ng Ex-Detainees laban sa Detensyon at Aresto represented by Dionito Cabillas, Carmencita Florentino, Rodolfo Del Rosario, Felix Dalisay and Danilo Dela Fuente. n

From the Front Page

(212) 655-5426 • http://www.asianjournal.com

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 19-25, 2016

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The complexity of the Asian American…

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TORNADO IN MANILA. A RARE tornado hit Manila and nearby areas on Sunday, which, according to a report by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, originated from land. The tornado was first spotted in the Port Area at around 4:30pm and was seen traveling toward Intramuros and Balic-Balic districts in Manila, and then to Galas and New Manila in Quezon City.

It toppled trees, electrical posts and destroyed property along its way.

Twitter photo by Karen Madrigal

Duterte warns Sen. De Lima: I have…

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ace and taking the opportunity to grandstand in spite of the gravity of the situation,” he said in a statement.

De Lima, in a privilege speech at the Senate in support of her call for an investigation into drug-related killings, did not say that Duterte was responsible for the deaths and said that she supported the government’s campaign against illegal drugs. She said, however, that basic rights must be upheld.

“We still have a system of law that processes and punishes wrongdoers. We have our Bill of Rights that accord the right to be presumed innocent. What is worrisome in this situation is that the war on drugs is becoming a convenient pretext for misguided or utterly corrupt law enforcers to kill just any one,” she said earlier this

month.

De Lima also wrote Duterte asking him to monitor the hearings, scheduled for Aug. 22 and 23. She said that there were indications that not all the deaths are related to the government’s war on drugs and assured the president that they are not working at cross-purposes.

Presidential communications secretary Martin Andanar said Duterte’s tiff with de Lima has become a “national telenovela.”

“He (Duterte) has immunity.

We do not have immunity on this table, neither do you have immunity. So if you say something that is libelous, then you can go to jail because you are not the President of the Republic,” Andanar said in a press conference in Davao City.

“The president fully understands his power, the power of im-

Clinton, Trump campaigns…

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gram in a Q&A format hosted by MSNBC’s Richard Lui. It marked the first time presidential nominees from four political parties were represented and addressed the AAPI community at one event.

Though Johnson and Stein have not received as much coverage, they presented themselves as alternatives to both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. If either Clinton or Trump is elected, Johnson said the country “will be more polarizing than ever.”

“A wasted vote is voting for someone you don’t believe in,” the former New Mexico governor said.

Meanwhile, Stein said she’s the “only candidate who doesn’t take money from corporations, lobbyists and super PACs” and has welcomed dissatisfied voters who supported Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.

In May, nonpartisan groups APIAVote, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC and AAPI Data released “Inclusion, Not Exclusion,” a voter survey examining the trends within the Asian American community.

According to the findings, 31 percent of Filipinos reported a favorable view of the Republican Party, compared to 64 percent of Filipinos for the Democratic Party.

Thirty-six percent of Filipinos responded that they are planning to vote for Clinton, while 11 percent for Trump.

Clinton’s AAPI record Filipino-American civil leader Gloria Caoile, who was appointed by former President Clinton to the White House Advisory Commission on AAPIs in 2000, had the honor of introducing him on Friday.

“When President Clinton took office, he made good on his promise of making his administration look like America,” she said, adding that “Secretary Clinton has spent her life fighting for us.”

In his speech, President Clinton covered a whole host of issues from student debt to equal pay. He even gave a shout out to Connie Mariano, a Filipina who was the White House physician during his administration.

“I will soon be known by every school child in the country as Hillary Clinton’s husband,” he said.

On immigration, he said Hillary Clinton would push for comprehensive immigration reform within the first 100 days of her presidency.

“If you wasted the money to round up and deport every undocumented person in this country, you’d disrupt millions of families and, along with the heartbreak, it would drive this country into a recession,” he said, acknowledging that 40 percent of API immigrants make up the visa backlog. Those from the Philippines are waiting more than 20 years.

Answering a question regarding Clinton’s email server controversy, the former president brushed it off as the “biggest load of bull I’ve ever heard.” He added that it is “not a cause for distrust” because prominent national security experts, including Republicans, have endorsed her.

Rep. Judy Chu of California said “it was a sign of respect” that the Clinton campaign sent its highestranking surrogate.

“What was so interesting was how much he wanted to engage with the audience,” Chu told the Asian Journal, while phone banking for Clinton in this city on Saturday, August 13.

Fil-Am Jason Tengco, AAPI outreach director for Clinton’s campaign, told the Asian Journal that it was a natural decision to have the former president speak because of his “career-long record of defending the AAPI community’s best interests.”

“President Clinton will continue to play a key role in highlighting Hillary’s plans to break down barriers and improve the lives of AAPIs, and understands that as president, Hillary will focus on the issues that are important to the AAPI community — like helping working families, supporting small business, raising the minimum wage, and investing in technology and innovation,” he said.

Earlier this year, Hillary Clinton visited San Gabriel, California to launch AAPIs for Hillary, making her the only presidential candidate to hold an event specifically for the community.

The campaign also released a fact sheet detailing her vision for a “thriving AAPI community,” focusing on what she would do on a host of issues, such as immigration reform, college affordability and health care.

Clinton’s running mate, Virgina Sen. Tim Kaine, has also reportedly been helping woo AAPI voters.

As the Asian Journal previously reported, Kaine has a visible track record pushing issues relevant to the Fil-Am community, namely the Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II veterans and the Filipino WWII Veterans Parole program that allows family members of veterans to come to the U.S. through immigration parole.

Trump’s PH comments clarified Reyes—a Trump surrogate who is of Spanish, Filipino, Japanese and Native Hawaiian descent— shared his backstory, while sprinkling in points of how the Republican presidential nominee would benefit the AAPI community.

The attorney general, who was named a ‘rising star’ of the GOP last year, is the highest-ranking Fil-Am law enforcement public official in the country and the first ethnic minority to hold statewide office in Utah.

“I realize that I’m not a headliner like others who have preceded me on the stage, but I think my being here says something important about Donald Trump and Governor Mike Pence,” he said. “That is that fact that they would allow an average person like me to be able to speak to a group as important as you.”

After starting off his speech in a lighthearted manner, with the caveat to not “stereotype” the community, Reyes said the “sacrifices and efforts [of the AAPI community] have not gone unnoticed by Donald Trump or the Republican Party.”

“You are such a critical strength

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munity,” he added.

On Wednesday, Duterte claimed that the money collected by de Lima’s driver at the National Bilibid Prisons (NBP) in Muntinlupa came from illegal drugs and may have been used to fund her senatorial bid last May. He admitted though that he could not tell yet whether de Lima was aware about her lover’s activities in the NBP. De Lima has been vocal in criticizing Duterte’s crackdown on illegal drugs and has vowed to probe allegations of human rights abuses by law enforcers, some of which have already been filed at the Commission on Human Rights. n

“Not only do they speak dozens of different languages they also hail from many different cultural and ethnic backgrounds and are only bound together because they claim racial/ethnic roots from the vast continent of Asia,” Gao said in the report.

Not enough resources are allocated to accommodating the vast diversity within the Asian American label and researching the unique characteristics and needs of each community.

But Cal State LA’s Pat Brown Institute of Public Affairs (PBI) released a comprehensive study that looked into the voting behaviors and attitudes among four Asian American groups: Chinese, Japanese, Filipino and Korean. The study comprised of a multidisciplinary study that gathered information from over 1,600 participants in the Los Angeles area and measured Asian American voter behaviors and attitudes.

The study found that Asian Americans are rather complex in their voter behavior, and it proved that tackling the Asian American vote as a singular entity is misguided.

The study not only compared attitudes and behaviors among the four ethnic groups, but also yielded comparative results between young and old, foreign born and American born, native English speakers and foreign language speakers among other brackets.

Socially liberal It’s no surprise the PBI study found that younger Asian Americans tend to be more socially

liberal than older generations, but numerous surveys from Pew, Gallup, the Washington Post and other pollsters have concluded that AAPIs as a whole are more liberal.

Asian Americans tend to lean politically left because of the policies introduced and supported

by Democratic leaders that address community concerns and noted a “strong contrast” between Democratic and Republican policies, said Shu-Yen Wei, northeast regional press secretary for the Democratic National Committee (DNC).

The 2000 presidential election marked the first time a majority of Asian Americans voted Democrat, and that trend continued in 2004 when 56 percent of Asian Americans voted for thenDemocratic nominee John Kerry.

President Barack Obama’s 2008 election win and 2012 re-election garnered 62 percent and 68 percent of the AAPI vote, respectively, according to exit polls from National Election Pool.

“President Obama has made it a priority to get input from the community and push legislation [that addresses AAPI] concerns,” Wei told the Asian Journal. “The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI) was established by Obama to establish further engagement with the community, and [they’ve used] these interactions to draft policies that address AAPI concerns.”

The PBI study indicated that religiosity and economic change like minimum wage are important to Asian American voters.

Moreover, health care, immi-

gration, commerce and education are issues of high salience to the AAPI community, and the Democratic Party’s positions on these issues tend to coincide with those of the typical Asian American voter, said Wei, who said that Democrats are more likely to enact laws that address AAPI concerns.

Immigration, in particular, is a keystone for AAPI voters, who are either immigrants or descendants of immigrants. Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA), which allows parents of American-born children to apply for naturalization, was authorized by Obama in 2014 and has been received positively among the AAPI community.

The U.S. Supreme Court could not come up with a consensus on Obama’s Executive Order to suspend mass deportations, grant undocumented immigrants with work permits and implement DAPA and expand Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) on Thursday, June 23.

Nonetheless, undocumented AAPIs have received these two proposals as a step forward, said Wei. “AAPI voters understand that Democrats support the path to citizenship and more comprehensive immigration reform,” said Wei, who noted the contrasting immigration stances between the two parties.

Wei added that the “strong anti-immigrant strain” from Republicans, particularly with Trump’s campaign, whose proposals — including his proposal

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A AUGUST 19-25, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

From the Front Page

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

Clinton, Trump campaigns court AAPI …

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TUBBATAHA. The Philippines received the first of ten coast guard vessels from Japan Thursday, the coastguard said, as the two countries boost security ties in the face of their separate maritime disputes with China. The 44 metre (144 foot) BRP Tubbataha has arrived in Manila, the Philippines coast guard said in a statement, adding that it will be used for search and rescue, law-enforcement and transport purposes.

Photo from PH coast Guard

The complexity of the Asian American…

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to “end birthright citizenship” — leads to “an overwhelming rejection” of the Republican presidential nominee among the AAPI community. “[Asian Americans] have grown up with the ‘perpetual foreigner stereotype’ and I think that kind of language is something that really resonates with the Asian American community,” said Wei. A massive, collective study from APIAVote, Asians American Advancing Justice (AAJC) and AAPI Data reports that only 19 percent of Asian Americans hold a positive view of Trump, whose rating pales in comparison to Clinton who touts 62 percent favorability among Asian American voters.

Filipinos: part of the rule or the exception?

In terms of policy, the opinions expressed by Filipino-American voters tended to coincide with the rest of the AAPI electorate, who hold significant importance to policy related to education, immigration, social security and health care.

The “Inclusion, Not Exclusion” study reported that 54 percent of Filipinos are registered Democrat, 16 percent are Republicans and 27 percent did not identify.

Moreover, 60 percent of FilipinoAmerican voters chose Obama.

The study reported that Fil-Am voters hold a 59 percent approval rating of Clinton, beating Trump who only received a 23 percent favorability among Filipinos.

But although these studies provide a sound projection on how Filipinos will vote, there’s still widespread voter apathy among older Filipinos.

Arianna dela Rosa told her par-

ents to vote for Sen. Bernie Sanders during the California primary, and without knowing anything about the Democratic presidential hopeful, they said, “Okay.”

And they did, according to dela Rosa, who was disappointed in her parents’ quickness to make such an uninformed decision.

“Even though it was nice that they were able to vote for who I wanted, I really wanted them to understand the importance of the issues and the importance of why we should vote,” dela Rosa told the Asian Journal.

This raises a common phenomenon among older Filipino voters, especially those who are low-information voters and rely on information from the younger generation, as indicated by dela Rosa, a fourth-year business and economics student at UC Davis.

Dela Rosa also expressed the importance of educating Filipinos on the American political system to generate more engagement among all Filipino Americans.

Filipinos comprise the second largest Asian American demographic behind the Chinese community in LA with more than 300,000 Filipinos living in LA County, and dela Rosa said that Filipino engagement is essential to empowering the community.

“We have a lack of representation in a lot of different things whether it’s in politics or higher education, and those things really intertwine with each other,” said dela Rosa.

The PBI study concluded that older generations tend to lean more conservatively on social issues and younger Filipino Americans tend to be liberal-leaning.

Moreover, Filipino Americans born in the U.S. are more likely to participate in politics more

than foreign-born Filipinos, who are more unfamiliar with the voting process.

But perhaps history is important to consider when understanding Filipino American voter attitudes.

The Marcos era, for example, left many Filipinos “unwilling and unwanting” to engage in the government because many felt they didn’t have a voice in Philippine democracy, remarked Stephanie Uy, field representative of California Assemblyman Jimmy Gomez.

“A lot of apathy comes from internalized colonization because our country has been suppressed by so many governments and different authorities, so there was never a strong want to be involved,” Uy told the Asian Journal.

Moreover, Filipinos who immigrated after the Marcos era came to an unfamiliar country where the voting process was foreign to them. These two factors wouldn’t “leave for much desire for participation,” said Uy. But the younger, more politically-involved generation of Filipino Americans promise a more informed and engaged electorate, said Uy. Can the GOP compete?

Despite the reported Republican Party’s lackluster approval with the AAPI community, the Republican National Committee (RNC) remains active in AAPI engagement and support.

A main vehicle for this is recruiting AAPI leaders through the Republican Leadership Initiative, according to Ninio Fetalvo, APA press secretary for the RNC. The RNC designed the initiative to generate engagement

u PAGE A5

to our nation,” he added, before touching upon issues such as health care, small business and affirmative action.

Most recently, Trump angered many Filipinos and Filipino Americans for his remarks during a Portland, Maine rally that implied that the Philippines is a terrorist nation.

Reyes came to Trump’s defense, saying “being Filipino, those issues are near and dear to my heart.”

“What Mr. Trump was trying to communicate—and I have full authority to make this clarification— is that he welcomes law-abiding Filipinos who want to come and have a better life and better opportunities, whether they want to live here or go back to the Philippines.

Send money back to their families there. He welcomes them,” he said.

He went on to clarify that terrorists “do exist in the Philippines, and there’s no one here from the Philippines who can dispute that.

They know that that exists.”

Though Reyes admitted that he does not agree entirely with Trump, he believes the Republican nominee represents a “new future, not the status quo.”

“Mr. Trump believes in America first — no exceptions,” he said.

For Ninio Fetalvo, Asian Pacific American press secretary and spokesman for the Republican National Committee (RNC), Reyes was a fitting surrogate because he “is the embodiment of the American Dream and represents the diversity of our Party and our country.”

“AG Reyes highlighted both his personal story of why his heritage has an impact on why he champions Republican values, and Mr. Trump’s plans to grow the economy and keep our nation safe, two

issues of major importance to the AAPI community. Mr. Trump offers the best platform for AAPIs to achieve the American Dream,” Fetalvo told the Asian Journal.

However, some Fil-Ams present on Friday were not persuaded by Reyes’s speech.

“I think the Filipinos for Trump need to get educated. I guess I don’t understand why they would agree with someone who is not about working families, is trying to build walls and deny immigrants their rights here. I just don’t get it. We’re a country of immigrants and they need to remember that,” SEIU Executive Vice President Luisa Blue told the Asian Journal.

Gregory Cendana, executive director of Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA), tweeted, “And let me be CLEAR. @seanreyesag does not speak for me or many in the Filipino American community I know.”

At an AAPI forum on the sidelines of the Republican National Committee in July, the Trump campaign announced that it would launch an Asian American advisory committee, the Asian Journal previously reported. Details of the committee are yet to be disclosed.

A vote not to take for granted Leading up to November, the Democratic and Republican parties, as well as community leaders, know there is still more that needs to be done to convince AAPIs and capture their votes.

AAPIs “have come from marginalized to the margin of victory,” Chu reiterated at the forum on Friday. “The political rhetoric has become so toxic this cycle that we in the AAPI community cannot afford to sit on the sidelines.”

The survey by the three nonpartisan groups also found that 62 percent of respondents reported

no outreach from the Democratic Party. On the Republican side, 72 percent said they were not contacted by the party.

Another study by UCLA found that Asian American voters are expected to double and rise to 12.2 million by 2040 and “be the margin of victory in critical swing votes during the next six presidential election cycles.”

“Now it is up to each of the candidates, as well as their campaigns, to reach out to AAPIs,” Chu told the Asian Journal.

The RNC has revamped its AAPI outreach strategy in the last three years; most notably with the launch of the Republican Leadership Initiative (RLI) in 2015 to train AAPI millennials to engage their communities on a grassroots level.

“Republicans across the country are building relationships with AAPI voters,” Fetalvo said. “We’re going to continue to grow the bench of AAPIs in politics, and as more and more Asian Americans hear the Republican Party’s message of growth and opportunity for all, more will continue to get involved in our Party and come out and support our candidates.”

Meanwhile, Tengco said the Clinton campaign will continue to engage AAPI voters in key states like Nevada, Virginia and Pennsylvania.

“We will continue to conduct outreach in Asian languages, deploy a robust network of AAPI surrogates, and engage our vast ‘AAPI for Hillary’ volunteer groups,” he shared with the Asian Journal.

“Many AAPI voters recognize how Donald Trump’s hateful rhetoric and bigoted policy proposals are dividing our nation, and are reminded each day that they simply cannot afford to stay at home and wake up to President-elect Trump on November 9.” n

Trump: ‘Extreme vetting’ needed for…

PAGE A1 t

should only admit into this country those who share our values and respect our people,” he described.

The screening test would question how potential immigrants align with American values. It is intended to weed “all members or sympathizers of terrorist groups” as well as those who have “hostile attitudes towards our country or its principles.”

“I call it extreme, extreme vetting. Our country has enough problems. We don’t need more.

And these are problems like

we’ve never seen before,” he said.

According to Trump, immigrants who embrace American values and are expected to thrive in the country would be issued visas. However, those who “do not believe in our Constitution, or who support bigotry and hatred” would be deported or denied from entering the country.

“Assimilation is not an act of hostility, but an expression of compassion. Our system of government, and our American culture, is the best in the world and will produce the best outcomes

for all who adopt it,” he said.

Yet again, he advocated for the temporary suspension of immigrants from “some of the most dangerous and volatile regions of the world that have a history of exporting terrorism,” without naming those areas specifically.

Under his administration, he said he would keep Guantanamo Bay open, continue drone strikes and pursue criminal charges against accused terrorists.

In a statement, Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton’s senior policy advisor

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Dateline USa

US transfers 15 Guantanamo detainees to UAE

by Klarize

MeDenilla AJPress

PRESIDENT Barack Obama has transferred 15 Guantanamo Bay detainees to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the single largest transfer of detainees in his presidency, the Pentagon announced on Monday, August 15.

The release included 12 Yemeni prisoners and three Afghan nationals, leaving a total of 61 detainees left at the detention facility. Additionally, there are now only 20 prisoners at Guantanamo Bay who have been approved for transfer and are currently waiting for a country to take them, according to the New York Times.

When he ran in 2008, Obama had been a proponent of closing down the controversial detention center, an idea that had been supported by his then-opponent during the primary Hillary Clinton and then-Republican presidential nominee John McCain. Since his first election, Obama has tried to close the prison down but Congress have blocked efforts to do so.

Consequently, the Obama administration has had to coordinate with other countries to accept the released prisoners.

The transfer drew mixed reactions from Washington officials and lawmakers. Some opposed the transfer on the grounds that it frees some of the country’s

most dangerous prisoners and enemies.

“In its race to close Gitmo (Guantanamo), the Obama administration is doubling down on policies that put American lives at risk. Once again, hardened terrorists are being released to foreign countries where they will be a threat,” U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-California, 39th District), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said in a statement.

Those who support the transfer—most of whom support the termination of the Guantanamo Bay facility—argue that the prison violates basic human rights.

“I think we are at an extremely dangerous point where there is a significant possibility this is going to remain open as a permanent offshore prison to hold people, practically until they die,” Naureen Shah, Amnesty International’s U.S. director for security and human rights, told Reuters.

Shah added that keeping the prison open impacts the way in which foreign governments handle their own prisoners, adding that the prison “weakens the U.S. government’s hand in arguing against torture and indefinite detention.”

Lee Wolosky, the State Department’s special envoy for closing down the prison, told Reuters that keeping the prison open depletes resources and risks “damaging our relationships with key allies and partners, and emboldening

violent extremists.”

Built on a 45-square mile U.S. naval base on land leased by Cuba since 1903, the prison at Guantanamo Bay was opened in 2002 to hold foreign prisoners of the U.S. After 9/11, prisoners were sent there to alleviate any threat and intelligence extraction.

Since its opening, it has drawn international controversy and accused of abusing human rights.

Since it’s an offshore facility, U.S. laws are not applicable; prisoners are without access to lawyers or families and are interrogated using questionable methods.

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump released a post detailing what his campaign believes to be the “Clinton-Obama” policies that “will harm America’s national security.” The post included media excerpts describing these supposed policies.

In the past, Trump vowed to keep Guantanamo Bay open to “load it up with some bad dudes”, including supporters of the Islamic State (IS). Trump has also expressed instituting controversial interrogation methods that have been widely seen as human rights violations, like waterboarding.

The UAE has accepted Guantanamo prisoners in the past. Five Yemenis released last year were reported to have been placed in monitored state-run rehabilitation, according to the Associated Press. n

Judge approves sale of abandoned ship…

PAGE A1 t

ping foot on U.S. soil. They had been forced to say onboard the ship, currently docked about 20 miles from Georgia off of Tybee Island, while the US District Court in Southern Georgia deliberated the case.

“We are fortunate that this happened here in the U.S.,” the cargo vessel’s First Officer, Cicilio Calo Yting told the AP earlier this month.

He said the crew had not been paid by the ship’s owners, Greek firm Newlead Holdings, for over two months prior to the ship’s arrival in America. The Daily Caller reports that, since then, the creditors who requested the ship’s seizure have footed the bill for the crew’s wages, supplies and

weeks of back pay supplied by a court appointed custodian for the crew, National Maritime Services (NMS).

In addition, a local Catholic priest has been visiting the Newlead Castellano to administer Holy Mass and confessions.

“We need to give them that hope that this is going to pass,” Fr. Brett Brannen of Blessed Sacrament Parish told local CBS television station WBTV. “It’s going to be a difficult experience for them, but it will be a great learning experience for them as well.”

On Monday, August 8, the Newlead Castellano was sold to Strategic Shipping Inc. for $7.4 million, according to the AP. A judge in the U.S. District

DOT Sec. Teo asks Fil-Am Community...

PAGE A2 t

been home for sometime, the Philippines awaits you. Let’s take time to get to know our roots again, visit your old haunts and be surprised at how much they have changed for the better,” Sec. Teo said as she challenged the audience to pack their bags and enjoy a week or two in the homeland.

Sec. Teo was in the news recently when she announced late last month that the Philippines will be hosting the Miss Universe pageant

in January 2017, with the hopes that the international event would drive more foreign visitors to the Philippines. This will be the third time that the country is hosting the international beauty pageant. The first was in 1974 when Amparo Munoz won, then twenty years later in 1994 when Sushmita Sen was crowned Miss Universe.

She is also a strong believer that the global Filipino market is a strong market that needs to get encouraged more to travel back to

Court for the District of Southern Georgia approved the sale the following Monday, August 15. If all goes according to plan, the stranded sailors might be escorted into the U.S. and then fly home from Atlanta as soon as Friday, August 19.

It is not uncommon for heavily indebted companies to abandon ships they cannot afford and their crews in foreign waters, according to NMS President Alan Swimmer. He said his company handles roughly 35 cases a year and is currently looking after two vessels under similar circumstances.

“This happens,” Swimmer told the AP. “It’s not a rare occurence.” (Eric Anthony Licas/ AJPress)

the homeland.

Secretary Teo graduated with a degree in Business Administration from St. Theresa’s College, Quezon City. She is the owner and past president of Mt. Apo Travel and Tours in Davao City and an active tourism player in Davao. She is also a member of the Davao Travel Agencies Association (DTAA), the Davao Association of Tour Operators (DATO), the Davao Regional Tourism Council (DRTC), and the president of the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS).

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 19-25, 2016

American facing child molestation charges caught in Davao the State Department.

“There will be no letup in our drive to flush out foreign fugiA MALE suspect wanted in the tives. We will not allow our counUnited States for allegedly mo- try to be used as a sanctuary for lesting a child was apprehended wanted criminals,” Morente said. by the Philippine Bureau of Im- “We will see to it that these fugimigration (BI) last Monday, Au- tives are caught and deported to gust 8 in Davao. answer for crimes they commitJeffrey Wayne Birge, 57, was ted in their homelands.” arrested at his house in WoAtty. Jose Carlitos Licas, Fugiodridge Subdivision, Wawa, tive Search Unit (FSU) Chief, said Davao City, according to the BI. the court issued a warrant for BI Commissioner Jaime Mor- Birge’s arrest on Oct. 30, 2014. ente said Birge is set to be deBirge is expected to stand trial ported back to the U.S. for be- before a magistrate court in Taring an undesirable alien and for rant County, Texas after his inbeing undocumented due to the dictment on charges of sexual cancellation of his passport by assault of a child.

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

Due to medical reasons, Birge’s transportation from Davao to Manila was postponed upon the advice of a government doctor who examined his physical condition after his apprehension.

Atty. Ma. Antonette Mangrobang, a BI spokesperson, disclosed that Birge is currently confined at the DMSF Hospital in Davao City.

“We will eventually transfer him to our detention facility in Bicutan (Taguig) where he will stay until he is deported,” Mangrobang said.

According to Interaksyon, the BI has caught 99 foreign fugitives this year. n

PH Consul General seeks support for Filipino WWII Veterans Gold Medal Award during call on Rep. Zeldin LONG ISLAND, New York — In a bid to encourage support for the Award of the Congressional Gold Medal for Filipino World War II Veterans (CGM), Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr. met with Representative Lee Zeldin (NY-R) at his district office in Patchogue, Long Island, NY. During the meeting, Consul General De Leon conveyed that the US Senate recently passed its version of the bill (S.1555) last July while the Congressional bill, H.R. 2737, is pending with Congress awaiting the required number of co-sponsors. The objective of the CGM is to give due recognition to Filipino WWII veterans who fought with valor and courage alongside the US Armed Forces in the Pacific theatre, but were denied the appropriate recognition. Other veteran minorities like the Tuskegee Airmen, Japanese Nisei, Puerto Ricans and Navajo Indians have been awarded the CGM, except the Philippines, he added.

In his reply, Representative Zeldin expressed confidence that his office is supportive of this bill, adding that his support for this bill in recognition of the bravery of Filipino WWII veterans should be “simple and straightforward.”

However, his support for the bill, like any other bill, would undergo a process starting with a recommendation from his legislative director, he added.

Consul General De Leon said that Filipino-Americans comprise

Consul General De Leon meets with Representative Lee Zeldin in his office at Patchogue, Long Island, about two hours from New York City. Rep. Zeldin expressed his support for the Philippines and described warm relations with the Filipino community in Long Island who are supportive of his leadership.

the second largest ethnic group in the United States with about four million Filipinos. About 400,000 or 10 percent live in the Consulate General’s jurisdiction.

According to the latest US Census, there are about 3,000 Filipinos residing in the First Congressional district of Long Island.

Representative Zeldin praised local Filipino organizations that are actively engaged in civic and community affairs in Long Island. In fact, he had been invited to and attended a number of salo-salo by Tanglaw, a popular Filipino organization in Long Island, he added.

Consul General De Leon took the opportunity to personally invite Representative Zeldin to the US-PH Friendship Caucus based in the US Congress which serves as platform for US Representa-

tives who are interested in the Philippines and wish to engage and participate in various fora committed to growing PH-US bilateral relations.

A member of the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and Veterans Affairs as well as Transportation, Rep. Zeldin was given updates on the recent Arbitral decision in the Hague last July involving claimant-countries in the South China Sea. As part of Post’s political diplomacy efforts, Consul General De Leon regularly conducts outreach to US elected officials in his jurisdiction to encourage support for legislation close to Philippine interests, and convey developments relative to US-PH bilateral relations, including regional security in Asia-Pacific, the Philippines and US being treaty allies. n

Trump: ‘Extreme vetting’ needed for…

PAGE A4 t Jake Sullivan said Trump’s proposed policy “cannot be taken seriously.”

“How can Trump put this forward with a straight face when he opposes marriage equality and selected as his running mate the man who signed an antiLGBT law in Indiana? It’s a cynical ploy to escape scrutiny of his outrageous proposal to ban an entire religion from our country, and no one should fall for it,” he said.

The controversial immigration remarks are not new to Trump’s campaign. Following the San Bernardino attack last December, he suggested that Muslims be prohibited from entering the

country. He has also called for a wall to be built between the U.S. and Mexico border.

Earlier this month, Trump was criticized by various Filipino and Filipino-American elected officials and community leaders for his comments that seemed to suggest a ban on immigration from “terrorist nations,” including the Philippines.

Other countries he had mentioned were Morocco, Uzbekistan, Syria, Somalia, Iraq, Pakistan and Yemen.

The presidential hopeful listed instances wherein legal immigrants committed or were plotting acts of terrorism, including the case of Filipino citizen Ralph Deleon who was sentenced to 25

years in prison for a plot to join Al Qaeda.

“An immigrant from Afghanistan, who later applied for and received U.S. citizenship, and a legal permanent resident from the Philippines were convicted for planning to join Al Qaeda and the Taliban in order to kill as many Americans as possible,” Trump said during a rally in Portland, Maine on August 4.

Following those remarks, Philippine congressman Joey Salceda introduced a bill proposing to ban the real estate mogul from the Philippines, while Fil-Am California Assemblymember Rob Bonta said Trump is “unfit to serve as president.” (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)

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The complexity of the Asian American…

PAGE A4 t

among AAPI Republicans and encourage them to be leaders within the party.

“Whether it is attending a local community event during AAPI Heritage Month, naturalization ceremonies, meeting with local AAPI community and civic engagement organizations, or meetings with AAPI faith leaders, the RNC continues having a strong presence and building meaningful relationships to ensure no voter is forgotten,” said Fetalvo.

Because of the studies and trends that show Asian Americans leaning left for the upcoming election in November, it’s projected that Clinton will be the choice for the Asian American electorate. However, there’s one crucial element that can reverse that: voter turnout.

During the 2014 midterm elections, which produced the lowest voter turnout since World War II, NEP exit polls showed that the Asian American vote was evenly split between Democrats and Republicans.

According to a Washington Post report, the AAPI Republican vote in 2014 was twice the amount that supported Repub-

lican presidential nominee Mitt Romney in 2012, according to NEP exit polls. This prompted celebration among the Republican Party.

“This was a rejection of the failed Democrat policies of the Obama administration and the previously Democrat-controlled Senate,” said Fetalvo. “Our continued engagement efforts resonated with all communities and proved effective at the ballot box in 2014.”

Representation matters The PBI study indicated that Asian Americans tend to mismatch politically across age groups, place of birth, levels of religiosity, and the needs of the population are complex and varied.

However, among all four surveyed groups, Asian American representation in the elected positions was a universal concern as more Asian American elected officials are more likely to bring the community’s concerns to the table.

Janelle Wong, political scientist from the University of Maryland, told Voice of America that it’s important “just having faces that reflect the Asian-American population.”

“I think the more important aspect of political incorporation is having meaningful influence over public policy,” she added.

Across all federal, state and local government positions, Asian Americans account for 0.008 percent, according to data from UCLA and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, quantity-wise, the number of Asian Americans in public office has increased from 100 in 1976 to 4,000 in 2014, according to a 2014 report from UCLA. With the exponentially growing population of AAPIs in the US, that number is soon to increase.

Rep. Judy Chu (D-California) became the first Chinese-American woman elected to Congress in 2009. She said in an interview with NPR that as America becomes more ethnically diversified, Congress needs to accurately represent and accommodate the changing demographics.

“Asian Americans are finally seeing that it can be done,” she said. “We are finally bearing fruit,” “It is so important to have people at the seat of the table where the decisions are being made that look like America.” n

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Features

Right-sizing

HE calls it “right-sizing” rather than downsizing, and it must push through. President Duterte reportedly wants to trim the fat from the bloated bureaucracy. He must not hesitate in going ahead with his plan.

Previous presidents had also wanted to trim the bureaucratic fat. But only an immensely popular president can implement this without worrying about its impact on his political fortunes. As indicated in recent surveys, President Duterte enjoys this level of popular support. It will also help that he seems to be genuinely unconcerned even about losing his post as a consequence of his controversial programs.

According to reports, the President wants to abolish redundant or overlapping functions, and to have more one-stop shops set up especially for frontline government services. One such facility was launched the other day by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, catering to Filipinos seeking to work abroad.

Such one-stop services are much appreciated by the public. Speedy processing of transactions with the government means cutting red tape and

opportunities for collecting grease money. Similar express services must be developed in agencies notorious for red tape such as the Land Transportation Office and the Bureau of Customs.

The President can encourage local government units to take the cue and set up similar systems for various types of services, particularly the processing of business documents. While local executives, being elected officials, enjoy a degree of independence from the national government, Malacañang has supervision over LGUs through the Department of the Interior and Local Government. Many LGUs are bloated with bureaucratic fat, mostly political appointees of the elected officials.

Malacañang is reportedly preparing a bill for submission to Congress, streamlining the government to create a lean and efficient bureaucracy.

Lawmakers must give the proposed bureaucratic right-sizing their full support. (Philstar.com)

Guest Editorial

Philstar.com photo

A majority of Filipinos in America agree with Marcos’s burial in the Libingan ng mga Bayani MUST a Filipino be buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani just because he was a president and/ or a soldier? Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte believes so, contending that this is what the law of the land says and that he, as the president, is duty bound to execute what the law mandates.

This is the rationale behind his decision to allow the burial of deposed President Ferdinand E. Marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bayani, something the Marcos family has been advocating for years.

After 27 years, the remains of Marcos — unburied and displayed in a glass coffin in a refrigerated crypt in his hometown of Batac, Ilocos Norte — will be buried on September 18.

Marcos’ widow Imelda Romualdez Marcos, children Imee, Bongbong and Irene, have all vowed to keep him there until the government gives in to their demands for a burial in the National Heroes’ Cemetery with full military honors.

After the tenure of Cory Aquino, Fidel Ramos, Joseph Estrada, Gloria Arroyo, and Noynoy Aquino, they found an ally in Rodrigo Duterte.

The National Heroes’ Cemetery (Libingan ng mga Bayani) was created by virtue of Republic Act 289, also known as “An Act Providing for the Construction of a National Pantheon for Presidents of the Philippines, National Heroes and Patriots of the Country.”

But Filipinos who lived through the Marcos administration — especially those who were victims of martial law or those who had been widowed, orphaned or lost all they worked so hard for because of the abuses and human rights violations — have intensified their protest against Duterte’s

decision.

As ABS-CBN News reported, The Fil-Am human rights victims during martial law and people’s orga- Perspective nizations filed a petition with the high court on Monday, August 15, urging Malacañang’s order for Marcos’s burial to be Gel SantoS-ReloS set aside. Instead, the cemetery should continue to be dedicated for war heroes, soldiers, former presidents of the Philippines, and national artists.

Most of these petitioners are plaintiffs in a class suit filed in the 1990s in a Hawaii Court against Marcos’ estate seeking to recover compensation for the “human rights violations perpetrated during the Marcos dictatorship.”

According to the petitioners, Duterte’s order was “void” for being “patently illegal and was made with grave abuse of discretion amounting to lack or excess of jurisdiction,” and that allowing Marcos’s burial in Libingan ng mga Bayani would be a mockery of Philippine democracy.

The petition further stated the following, as reported by ABS-CBN News: “Apart from the human rights violations during the Marcos dictatorship, the fact remains undisputed that Marcos and his family, during his term, acquired billions worth of ill-gotten wealth, some of which are still subjects of pending litigations while much remain hidden.”

The petition further stated, ”Moreover, the foreign debt his administration incurred ballooned and actually rendered future generations of Filipinos, even those still unborn, heavily indebted

by the millions.”

Petitioners also raised the issue on a study conducted by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) which states that Marcos’ claims of being a bemedalled World War II hero “failed to pass the test of historical verification.”

Petitioners also pointed out that an agreement between the Philippine government and the Marcos family in 1993 provided the following conditions for the return of Marcos’ remains to the Philippines: a) That the body of Pres. Marcos will be immediately transported to Ilocos Norte upon arrival without fanfare; b) That the body of Pres. Marcos be buried in Ilocos Norte; and c) The ceremony for the burial was to be for military honors for the rank of major.

Duterte refused to join in the debate of whether Marcos was a hero or not. He said in a press conference, “Ang Pilipinas… is you need only to be a president and a solider. Nobody is debating about heroes here. Assuming it to be true na wala siyang medalya or not validated by an American record does not mean that he is not qualified to be buried there. So what’s the objection?”

Duterte further contended: “I would like to say forget about the medals. Just focus on whether he is a Filipino. He fought for his country, and he’s once upon a time a president. That’s the law! We cannot go out of the law….Nobody is

questioning about he’s a hero. I am not dwelling on his exploits.”

“Alam mo kasi, kung ginusto nila – and they were already in power at the time, itong mga yellow – dapat nagpasa sila ng batas na hindi puwedeng ilibing si Marcos when the guy was already in Guam in exile. They should have passed a law prohibiting Marcos if ever he comes home dead to be buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani. But nothing has been done. Bakit kinalimutan ang elementary procedure na ‘yan?” argued Duterte.

But it seems 30 years after Marcos has been overthrown by the Peoples’ Power Revolution in 1986, public opinion is now favorable to the Marcoses’ demand and Duterte’s decision — if the opinions of a majority of Filipinos in America are concerned.

In an online viewers’ poll of The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America, 55 percent of those who voted said Marcos should be buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani because he was a president and a soldier. These Marcos supporters, and even those who were not really big fans of Marcos, argue that it is time for the nation to “move on,” and that Duterte’s move will help unify the country that has been divided especially after the 1986 People Power.

Do you agree? *** 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

Why the South China Sea could be the key to winning in swing states

by Andrew LAm NewAmericaMedia

QUICK, what do Vietnamese and Filipino Americans have in common? If you said that both communities hail from Southeast Asia, you’d be right. But the commonalities don’t stop there. Both communities also have sizable numbers of naturalized citizens, many of who are casting wary eyes on China’s ongoing aggression in the South China Sea. For Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton, whose record on security in the region is well documented, that could prove decisive come November.

“The future of politics will be decided in Asia, not Afghanistan or Iraq,” wrote then Secretary of State Clinton in 2011, in a much-touted essay for Foreign Policy magazine supporting President Obama’s strategic “pivot to Asia.”

While turmoil in the Middle East ultimately derailed Obama’s Asia pivot, analysts believe that as president, Clinton would again seek to reinvigorate the policy to secure U.S. primacy in the region and to ensure the United States remains “at the center of the action.”

And there is plenty of “action.”

In the years since Clinton’s essay appeared, China has continued to build up its presence in open waters around the South China Sea, posing a direct challenge to the territorial sovereignty of several Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam and the Philippines.

Beijing continues to construct military bases –including a 3000-meter runway, two helipads and a radar tower – on artificial islands that lie in open waters. A

report out this week, meanwhile, notes China began flying “aerial combat patrols” over these same waters despite a ruling by a United Nations tribunal invalidating Beijing’s claims to territory in the region.

While China rejected the ruling, Filipinos and Vietnamese – including those in the United States – turned out in droves to celebrate.

Indeed, if there is a core issue linking Vietnamese and Filipino American voters, it is Chinese aggression and the threat it poses to the territorial integrity of their homelands. It’s an issue that could drive enough of them to vote in states where their numbers are growing and where recent electoral victories have come at the slimmest of margins.

Take Florida for example. The state played a pivotal – if not controversial – role in ushering in the Bush presidency in 2000 with a slim margin of just 536 votes. Today, the combined Vietnamese and Filipino population there hovers around 200,000. In Nevada, another swing state, Filipinos number around 120,000. And in Georgia, the two groups combined make up around 80,000. (There is, incidentally, also a significant Korean presence in Georgia of around 100,000.)

As Florida showed, a few hundred votes in either direction can alter the trajectory of the nation and the world.

Given all this, one would assume Democrats and Republicans would be lining up to court Filipino and Vietnamese voters. But according to a survey put out last May by the non-partisan group APIA Vote, “Asian Americans were less likely than other racial groups

to be contacted.”

Indeed, GOP nominee Donald Trump this week went so far as to indict the Philippines, saying the country was part of a “Trojan horse” of “terrorist nations” threatening the United States.

His comments have already touched off a fire storm both here and in the Philippines, where lawmakers have proposed banning Trump from visiting.

But even among Democratic strategists, who have long focused on winning over the Latino and black vote, Asian Americans are often a second thought at best, the assumption being most are solidly blue. Which is true, to a point.

According to the APIA Vote survey, Clinton’s favorability ratings among

Asian American voters came in at 62 percent, compared to 61 percent unfavorable for Trump. But the survey also found 23 percent of Filipinos and 22 percent of Vietnamese found Trump favorable.

Vietnamese, in particular, have a long record of supporting Republicans going back to the days of Reagan and the fight against Communism. Many Vietnamese still regard the GOP as being stronger on national security.

And this is where Clinton’s stance on the South China Seas comes in handy.

Clinton needs to remind Vietnamese and Filipino Americans of her record in Asia, of how she helped bring about democratic elections in Burma

and shifted that country’s alliance from China toward the United States.

She needs to convince them that if Trump wins he will be an unsure and inept hand at America’s helm. This will surely steer America and its allies toward disunity, and therefore open opportunities for expansionistic neighbors China and Russia.

All politics is local. But given shifting demographics, local also means the assurance of strong foreign policy experience. For Clinton, guaranteeing the security of the South China Sea may very well be the key to driving Filipino and Vietnamese American voters to the booths and opening the door to the White House in November. n

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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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • AUGUST 19-25, 2016

Dateline PhiliPPines

A

Duterte won’t bring up territorial sea issues on ASEAN summit

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte disclosed on Wednesday, August 17, that he will not bring up the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) territorial issues during the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit on September.

The president expressed that he prefers to tackle the issues during a formal talk, adding that he would not want to antagonize China by making unnecessary “noises” and ruin the chances of having bilateral meetings.

“I will only bring the issue when we are together face to face,” Duterte said, referring to China.

“If you quarrel with them now and you claim sovereignty, make noise here and there, they might

We proceed from this judgement.” he said.

The president reiterated his stance that going to war with China is not an option.

“What if (China) says, I do not want to quarrel or even speak with you’? Bahala kayo sa buhay ninyo (You go mind your own lives), can we do anything? Can we declare war? It is not an option,” he said.

“I would not be stupid to do that. It will only be a massacre Pres. Rodrigo Duterte Inquirer.net photo for all...still war is not an option not just even want to talk.” nowadays.”

Duterte also noted that his enThe ASEAN summit is the first voy, former President Fidel Ra- international summit Duterte will mos, has been working to pave be participating in as President. way for formal talks between the It will take place from September two countries.

6-8 in Laos.

“We maintain good relations Although not an ASEAN memwith China. Let us create an envi- ber, China also has territorial disronment where we sit down and putes with other ASEAN countalk directly. That is the time we tries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, would say we proceed from here. and Brunei. n

Robredo seeks dismissal of Marcos election protest

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

VICE President Leni Robredo on Monday, August 15, asked the Supreme Court (SC) to dismiss the electoral protest filed against her by the defeated former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. In her 536-page answer, Robredo, through her lawyers Romulo Macalintal and Ma. Bernadette Sardillo, asked the SC — which also serves as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) — to dismiss the protest for the “utter lack of merit” and the “lack of jurisdiction of the PET.” Marcos’s election protest against Robredo, filed last June 29, pointed out that there should be an investigation regarding the accuracy of the election results and the reported irregularities to unveil the fraud that involved the Liberal Party, Smartmatic Corporation and the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Macalintal and Sardillo, however, said that it is just practically

a complaint by Marcos against the Comelec in the lease of the Vote Counting Machines (VCMs) from Smartmatic. Allegedly, the machines have no record of prior use in other elections in other countries.

“Since there were no records as to how ‘successful’ the VCMs worked in the past, the procurement of the same was highly suspicious,” the petition read.

Robredo’s camp also argued that the ‘second part’ of the Marcos petition is “a mere series of wild accusations, guesses, and surmises which renders it miserably wanting in sufficiency both in form and substance.”

“In other words, the allegations of election fraud and irregularities are without specification and substantiation, of where and how these occurrences took place,” Robredo said, as quoted

by Inquirer.

“The Supreme Court held in that ruling that it cannot allow an election protest based on such flimsy averments to prosper, otherwise, the whole election pro-

THE BRAVE DIE YOUNG. President Rodrigo Duterte looks at the casket bearing the remains of Petty Officer 3 Darwin Espallardo of the Philippine Navy who was killed by a drug dealer in Midsayap, Cotabato. Espallardo and his team were about to serve a search warrant against Commander Madrox but the latter fired at the lawmen. The slain soldier was conferred the medal of valor. With the President were Espallardo’s widow Cleofe and son Dwyndyll.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Benjie Vergara

Duterte’s ‘war gainst drugs’ lowers PH crime rate

by JoSeph

Vice President Leni Robredo Inquirer.net photo

cess will deteriorate into an endless stream of crabs pulling at each other, racing to disembark from the water.”

Robredo’s camp also argued that an election protest is a contest between two candidates and not between the Comelec and Smartmatic, stating that the tribunal “has no jurisdiction to rule on his first cause of action.”

During the May 9 elections, it was a tight race between Marcos and Robredo for the vice presidential position, with the latter winning by just 263,473 votes, according to the final official tally of the National Board of Canvassers.

Robredo won with 14,418,817 votes while Marcos placed second with 14,155,344 votes. n

almer B. peDraJaS AJPress

DESPITE criticism for allegedly dishonoring human rights, the “war against drugs” has lowered the country’s crime index in the first month since President Rodrigo Duterte took office.

On Sunday, August 14, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar told radio station dzRB that the crime volume went down to 50,817 from 56,339 (9.8 percent) in the same period last year, according to a report by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Andanar added that the police also recorded 11,800 incidents of index crimes in July 2016, or a 31 percent decrease from 17,105 in July of last year.

“Patuloy na umaani ng positibong result ang kampanya kontra droga at krimen ng kasalukuyang administration isang buwan matapos umupo sa Malacañang si Presidente Rodrigo Roa Duterte (The government’s campaign

against drugs and crime is receiving positive results just a month after President Rodrigo Roa Duterte assumed office in Malacañang),” Andanar pronounced.

In secluded areas where drugs and criminality dominate, the secretary bragged that the “change” has come and is being felt.

As of August 12, the police has already recorded 601 drug-related deaths since June 30. The record includes alleged narcopeople who were killed by police in operations, vigilantes and other unnamed killers.

With regard to the rise in the number of deaths, the Commission on Human Rights and other pro-life activists held protests to fight for the proper enactment of human rights and due process.

The PNP crime record of July last year was 11,106 – 40.3 percent higher than last month’s 4,476.

On the other hand, Andanar reiterated the president’s promise to eradicate illegal drugs and criminality within three to six months.

“Ang pangako ng ating Pangulo ay within three to six months malaking bawas po kundi masawata na po itong ilegal droga sa ating mga lansangan at maibabalik na ang lansangan natin sa kabataan di tulad ng nakaraang mga taon na napakadelikado po ang ating mga lansangan upang sila ay maglaro. (The president’s promise is to eradicate illegal drugs within three to six months and to bring back the safety of the children while playing in the streets),” Andanar said.

Last week, the United States expressed concern over “reports regarding extrajudicial killings of individuals suspected to have been involved in drug activity in the Philippines,” according to a release by the country’s embassy in Manila.

“The United States strongly believes in the rule of law, due process, and respect for universal human rights, and that these principles promote long-term security,” it added. n

A AUGUST 19-25, 2016 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

August 19-25, 2016

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An Asian Journal Magazine

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Filipino American Demographics

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY Au g u ST 1 9, 20 1 6

14% 51%

The culture of health in Filipinos

by Malou liwanag-Bledsoe/AJPress

When it comes to health, Filipinos in the United States tend to have a different view of sickness, health and wellness than that of Americans. According to “Culture and health of Among Filipinos (2007),” it all depends on which generation one belongs to, and how much of the traditions and culture are retained about health and health care.

One example is that FilipinoAmericans who have assimilated into U. S. culture see health through the lens of an American.

Therefore, most of their health problems are clinically diagnosed and knowledge is obtained through medical sciences.

On the other hand, Filipinos (majority are first generation immigrants) still embrace traditional cultural views of health and medicine. They are also considered the least acculturated and of low socioeconomic status, and thus rely on a traditional healer (referred to as a “hilot”) for selected

illnesses or injuries; and would rely on natural remedies — such as herbs and oils — before going to a licensed doctor.

Current health problems: High blood pressure and obesity One major health problem prevalent among Fil-Ams is high blood pressure. In 2012, 60 percent of Fil-Am men and approximately 65 percent of women over the age of 50 had high blood pressure. even with these high numbers, controlling the disease is particularly poor and increases the risk for heart disease and death.

Many factors have been associated with the cause of hypertension among Fil-Ams, which include immigration-related stress, diet, and cultural beliefs.

Of course, the lack of exercise, smoking and lifestyle — elements that are common with other Americans — are also contributing factors.

Obesity/being overweight is another health problem affecting

Population in California

1,098,321

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1,474,707

6% 17%

34%

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According to “Filipino Heart Disease” which was published in 2012, cardiovascular disease is the first leading cause of death for Fil-Ams. Philstar.com photos

the Filipinos, and it persists because of overeating, unbalanced meals, irregular meals, unhealthy food choices and lack of exercise.

This is where culture comes in, as Filipinos love food and celebration.

Also, many traditional Filipino dishes are high in fat and sodium.

Along with food from other cultures, such as American fast food, Filipinos are at risk for heart disease. however, just like many Americans, financial and time constraints prevent Filipinos from changing their diets and having some form of exercise or physical activity.

“For me, it’s not being able to eat my meals on time,” said Marian (not her real name), a 43-year-old Filipina registered nurse in Vallejo, who was diagnosed with high blood pressure two years ago.

She is also a diabetic and about 30 pounds overweight. “My job schedule is erratic, so I tend to eat whenever I can.”

With her work schedule, Marian added that she’s either too tired or too lazy to exercise.

Obesity/being overweight is another health problem affecting the Filipinos, and it persists “Sometimes I try to exercise at because of overeating, unbalanced meals, irregular meals, unhealthy food choices and lack times and eat healthy, but I know of exercise.

that both should be a regular thing.”

Also, smoking is a big problem for the younger Filipino population, as it is seen as a socially acceptable behavior. This increases the risk for chronic respiratory conditions, as well as risk for heart disease, stroke and cancer — which are the leading causes of death for Asian Americans according to the Centers for Disease Control (2013).

All about the heart According to “Filipino heart Disease” which was published in 2012, cardiovascular disease is the first leading cause of death for Fil-Ams. “Among Asian Americans, Filipinos have the second highest risk of CVD (cardiovascular disease) after Asian Indians,” the study said.

Several classic risk factors for CVD include blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and diabetes.

As mentioned above, hypertension rates are higher in Filipinos compared to other Asian American groups and smoking is high in the Filipino male population.

Another risk factor for CVD that is prevalent in Filipinos is Type 2

27% of ever being told to have hypertension

27%

26%

9%

Infographics by American Heart Association and American Stroke Association

diabetes.

The second leading cause of death in Filipinos is cancer and the mortality rate of breast cancer is higher in Fil-Am women (including the elderly) compared to other Asian American groups. Also, according to “Patterns of health Risk (2013),” Fil-am men have the highest incidence and death rate from prostate cancer and lung cancer among Asian American groups.

The third major cause of death in Filipinos is stroke and is associated with same factors of obesity, smoking and hypertension.

Prevention and lifestyle change Regardless of which generation they belong, all FilAms — whether acculturated or not — struggle with the health problems mentioned above.

With the advances in medicine

and technology, better access to health care and information; these issues can be avoided and improve Filipinos’ health condition.

Today, Filipino chefs and foodies have continued to develop healthier versions of traditional dishes to give them alternative food choices. Adapting to these dishes include less salt and fatty ingredients. Dietary monitoring and portion intake are also important factors to consider.

A change in lifestyle is also essential aside from dietary factors. Staying active and having a regular exercise routine/program is highly recommended. Taking a 30-minute to an hour brisk walk at least 3-4 times a week not only builds stamina, but also helps better one’s circulation.

Lastly, it is important know the dangers of smoking and know that it will be beneficial if one quits the habit.

On living well: Fit Chef for Life Katrina Palana-Soledad

By Christina

Ground turkey with potatobell pepper omelette topped with grilled organic eggplant (Pork giniling & tortang talong inspired) Ingredients: GROUnD TURKeY BASe 1/2 cup Onions, diced 1 Tbsp, Garlic, minced 1 Tbsp Grapeseed Oil 16oz extra Lean Ground Turkey 16oz Lean Ground Turkey 1/4 cup Bragg’s Liquid Aminos 1/2 tsp Fresh Ground Pepper 1/2 tsp Pink himalayan Salt 1.5 cups water 2 cups Organic Potatoes, peeled and diced 1 cup Organic Yellow Bell Peppers, diced GRILLeD eGGPLAnT 1 large organic eggplant (slice lengthwise, 1/3 inch thick) OMeLeTTe 1 cup of Ground Turkey Base 1 large organic brown egg + 1 large egg whites only, well beaten Directions: • Pre-heat non stick pan to medium heat.

• Add grapeseed oil when pan is hot. Add diced potatoes immediately. Cook for 3-5 minutes.

Remove from pan then set aside.

• Spray Canola spray on the pan, add onions then sauté a bit. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute…do not brown!

• Add the lean ground turkey, Bragg’s Liquid Aminos and

water. Cover pan with lid and cook for 8-10 minutes until meat is not longer pink.

• Add bell peppers, black pepper and potatoes. Cover pan with lid and cook for another 5 minutes until bell peppers are soft.

Set aside.

GRILLeD eGGPLAnT • Pre-heat stove top grill to medium-high heat. Spray canola spray on the grill.

• Lay eggplant on the grill and cook each side for 3-5 minutes until you see the grill marks. Set aside.

OMeLeTTe • heat a non-stick pan to medium.

• Add canola spray when pan is hot. Add 1 cup of the ground turkey base, sauteé a bit then add beaten eggs. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes.

• Remove from pan and top with grilled eggplant.

M. oriel / AJPress

FOR Katrina Palana-Soledad, living well has been a journey — one 12 years in the making.

“Growing up in the Philippines, there’s no such thing as dieting,” she shared.

When she came to the United States, that’s when she began to explore ways to change up her routine by eating more balanced meals and making exercise a daily habit.

In 2011, she launched her website, Fit Chef for Life, and released an eCookbook under the same name. On both, she shares how her food choices have helped her reach her fitness goals and maintain her current lifestyle.

“This lifestyle is basically: when you reach your goal, it’s not over. When I started the website, I wanted to look good and feel good. But after, I just worked on myself and thinking on a long-term basis because I want to be fit for life — not just with the way I look, but with my health and overall wellness. I want to age gracefully — not live forever but to make sure I don’t have diseases,” she said. now, she’s a certified fitness nutrition coach, bodybuilder, triathlete and advocate for health, wellness & body positivity. She also has plans to release a cookbook next year tailored for a Filipino audience.

“To me, wellness doesn’t just mean being physically fit. It has to be something that is physical and spiritual — mind, body and spirit.

You cannot excel just in one.”

She shared with the Asian Journal some of her tips: Small changes Implementing small changes like talking a daily walk or

swapping soda with water will go a long way, said Palana-Soledad.

When taking on a new workout schedule or trying to eat healthier by eliminating refined carbs or sugar, it’s important not too shock the body too quickly or else it will seem too difficult to keep up with this new routine. She added that a simple swap for Filipinos especially would be to opt for brown rice instead of white.

“Little changes have added up and slowly, but surely, became my lifestyle. It took a while because from eating whatever you want to suddenly changing it stepby-step…is the way to go. When people usually try to be healthy it’s abrupt, so they give up easily because their bodies get shocked and their routines are messed up,” she said.

Set goals Whether it’s to build muscle or run a 5K, Trina says it’s important to set your intentions and goals. “I try everything in a matter of six months to a year and I try to figure out if that works with my lifestyle and how my body responds to it. I tweak it according to my needs.”

Stay hydrated Though there are different opinions on what one’s daily water intake should be, the common notion is at least eight 8-ounce glasses a day. It’s important to drink water throughout the day to avoid getting dehydrated.

One indicator is the color of your urine — the more yellow it is, it’s a tell-tale sign that you should be drinking more water.

For those who think water is too boring, Palana-Soledad recommends adding lemon, mint or berries.

Crazy FOr COCOnut PrOtein PanCaKeS (Bibingka inspired)

Minutes to Prepare: 10 Minutes to Cook: 5 Number of Servings: 4 Ingredients

*Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free All Purpose Baking Flour, .5 cup *Organic Brown egg, 1 Large *Baking Powder – Aluminum

Keep moving even if you don’t want to join a gym or think you don’t have time to do a workout, Palana-Soledad says to start by walking during breaks or after work. If you want to kick it up a notch, she recommends using free resources like workout tutorials on YouTube.

For healthy recipes and ideas, Free, 1 tsp *Light Coconut Milk (canned) .75 cup or Light Coconut Milk Unsweetened (carton) *Coconut Palm Sugar, Sweet Tree, 3 tsp *no Salt Sodium-Free Salt Alternative, 0.25 tsp *whey-soy-vegan protein powder (unflavored or vanilla), 1 scoop (30g) *Trader Joe’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, 1 tbsp *Canola Cooking Spray for pan grease {Optional: Organic Shredded Coconut, Reduced-Fat for Topping} Directions 1. heat a non-stick pan to medium-low.

2. In a mixing bowl, beat egg well.

3. Add the rest of the ingredients. Mix well.

4. Batter will be a bit thick but soft.

5. Add a little coconut oil and

please visit her website at www. fitchefforlife.com.

“LIKe” her page on FB to get daily fitness and nutrition tips: www.facebook.com/ FITCheFFORLIFe Follow her on Pinterest: http:// pinterest.com/fitchefforlife/ and and IG: @glamfitcheftrina, or e-mail her at fitforlifechef@gmail.com.

Nutritional Info Servings Per Recipe: 4 Amount Per Serving Calories: 167.5 Total Fat: 8.6 g Cholesterol: 17.5 mg Sodium: 118.0 mg Total Carbs: 15.0 g Dietary Fiber: 1.5 g Sugars: 3.0g Protein: 8.8 g For more health recipes and ideas, please visit www.fitchefforlife.com, on Facebook at Fit Chef for Life or Instagram @ glamfitcheftrina.

Photos courtesy of Katrina Palana-Soledad

/ Fit Chef for Life

canola spray on the pan, then add 1/3 of the batter and spread well using a silicone spatula.

6. Cook 2-3 minutes for each side.{Optional: Add Organic Shredded Coconut, Reduced-Fat for Topping}

Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ THE USCIS recently updated its Policy Manual on when a lawful permanent resident (LPR) is eligible to file for naturalization.

The significant change is defining when the person is considered an LPR. The basic eligibility requirements include: • The applicant must be at least 18 years old.

• The applicant must establish he or she has been lawfully admitted to the US for permanent residence.

• If the person’s LPR status was not lawfully obtained for any reason (fraud or was not in compliance with the immigration law), the person is not considered to have been lawfully admitted, and therefore not eligible for US citizenship.

• For example, if a person obtain a green card as “single”, but was secretly married, the person was not lawfully admitted, and would not be eligible for US citizenship.

• Another example is if a person obtained a green card through a fixed marriage. If that comes out during the naturalization interview, not only would his naturalization application be denied, but the USCIS could also revoke their

USCIS clarifies certain naturalization eligibility requirements green card.

• This is true even if they are already LPRs. There should have been no fraud in connection with the way they obtained a green card.

• The person is considered to be an LPR (green card holder) at the time USCIS approves their adjustment of status application (Form I – 485) or when the person enters the US with an immigrant visa through American Embassy processing.

• It doesn’t matter how long, or how many years, USCIS may have taken to adjudicate the person’s adjustment of status; they become an LPR only on the date the case is finally approved.

• A person who is a conditional permanent resident (CPR), for example through marriage, is also eligible to file for naturalization after the removal of the conditional status and three years from the date he got his green card (CPR).

If a person committed certain crimes, or is still on probation, they may not be eligible to file for citizenship. In addition, some crimes can make a person deportable/removable. So, if a person goes ahead and files for citizenship, is fingerprinted, and

Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

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

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

Almer B. pedrAJAs AJPress

THE world watched in awe as Joseph Schooling of Singapore defeated American swimmer Michael Phelps and won the first gold medal for his country during the 2016 Rio Olympics.

As the first Singaporean man to participate in an Olympic swimming final, Schooling triumphed against seven other swimmers and ranked 1st in the men’s 100m butterfly division of swimming on Friday, August 12.

Meanwhile, behind Schooling’s victory and abrupt prominence are his coaches, teammates, family, and of course, his Filipina nanny.

In a phone interview with the Sunday Times, Yolanda Pascual—or “Auntie Yolly” as she’s referred to—shared that aside from being Schooling’s nanny, she has also been his “waterboy” every time the swimmer dipped in the pool.

“I’ve always believed in him.

I was watching and shouting for him. I cannot express how happy I am…I was jumping and crying after he won,” Pascual said in the interview.

In a YouTube video made by Singtel in 2015, the 21-year-old

CREWMAN WENT HOME TO MANILA ON PROVISIONAL WAIVER AND CAME BACK TO THE U.S. WITH A GREEN CARD —ON A SPECIAL EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel obtained a Provisional Waiver for Jerome, a crewman who jumped ship. Jerome had filed for Adjustment of Status on his own, but it was denied, because he was not eligible. With the approved Provisional Waiver of the 3\10 year bar, Jerome returned to the Philippines for visa processing at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. His wife and children wondered and prayed if Jerome could make it back to the U.S. Every crewman and their U.S. spouse should watch the outcome of this Provisional Waiver case on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday, August 14 at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

Liza Soberano charms another international celeb

LIZA Soberano was not able to attend Charlie Puth’s concert, but for some reason the Grammynominated singer could not shake the “Dolce Amore” star out

SECOND MOM. Singapore’s Olympic gold medalist, swimmer Joseph Schooling, shows his appreciation for the support of Filipino Yolanda Pascual, his family’s domestic helper for 19 years.

SINGTEL Youtube videograb

Schooling showed appreciation for his nanny’s support and called her a “second mum.”

The 56-year-old nanny recognized the esteem and also commented that Schooling is like her “own son.” She even recounted that, “when I miss him, I read our messages.”

Pascual also narrated that since 1997, she has been employed by the Schooling family. She boasted that the gold medalist “[has] been loving and caring and a very good boy. He never shouts at me or anybody.”

Nostalgic, the nanny

Calendar of Events across

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the crimes are uncovered, not only could their naturalization application be denied, but they could also face removal.

If you have any questions or issues about your eligibility to file for naturalization, you should first seek the advice of an attorney, who can analyze your situation.

Don’t just file first, and see what happens. Your LPR status could be jeopardized and you could be deported. ***

The Filipina nanny who helped raise Singapore’s Olympic gold medalist

by Joseph

An Asian Journal Magazine

recounted that Schooling “will always say ‘I want to be No. 1. I remember once we were watching (Michael) Phelps on TV, he told me he wanted to be there and be like him, and I knew he could do it. He has a very strong will; if he wants something, he’ll get it.”

“When friends asked [Schooling] to go out, he usually couldn’t because he had practice early the next day,” she added.

Schooling had met Phelps—now the most decorated Olympian of all time—in 2008 before the Beijing Olympics.

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS Au g u st 2 0

ANCOP Walk New Jersey The ANCOP Walk brings together hundreds of participants across the U.S. and North America, walking together to help the poor in the Philippines and third world countries.

ANCOP Foundation USA is a Christian based organization founded by the Couples for Christ which helps the very poor in the Philippines and other countries by providing support to select organizations that work for the poor. Current projects focus on child education sponsorship programs and values formation. Walkers’ participation and generosity in the ANCOP Walk will help provide quality education to children in poor communities. The organization serves the poor from all walks of life regardless of faith and denomination. The walk will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Liberty State Park in Jersey City. To register, please visit www.ancopusawalk.org; the registration fee is $15. For more information, please contact Jon Teves at jteves92@yahoo.com or Fernando Silva at frsilva99@gmail.com.

Au g u st 27

St. Margaret Mary Parish Luau The St. Margaret Mary Parish will celebrate their Annual Luau on August 27 at the SMM Parish Hall on 12686 Central Ave., Chino, California. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Duo. For more information, please call SMM Filipino Ministry President - (909) 315-9812, Adel Rellora.

september 1

Startup Business Expo Tour (with Tagalog translation) Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Office in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration invites you to the 2016 Startup Business Expo Tour. The series of events is intended to help startups, small businesses, entertainment and production companies, food services, event planners, home-based businesses, entrepreneurs, fashion & beauty businesses, e-commerce, accounting services, cleaning services, consultants, childcare and more! Topics include: starting a business in LA, predicting your financial future, choosing a legal entity & access to capital. This event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 6313 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Ste. 2140, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. The event is FREE & open to the public. There will also be free food & refreshments for participants. To RSVP, please visit www.startuptourla.com.

september 3

Filipino Association of Leisure World Annual “Luau” The Filipino Association of Leisure World will hold its Annual Hawaiian Luau at the LW Hall (1232 Golden Rain Rd. Seal Beach, California) on Saturday, Sept. 3. Music will be provided by Willie Manacsa & The Midnight Motion Band. Please call the president of the association, Ren Villanueva at (323) 854-6209 for other related questions.

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

of his mind.

Charlie visited Philippines for the second time on Sunday, Aug. 14 to promote his latest album, “Nine Track Mind.” During his

concert, Charlie admitted that Liza caught his attention after he saw the Kapamilya actress on television. He also shared the story on how he tried to invite her to watch his concert.

“Apparently, I am attracted to this young actress (Liza)... sent her an invite, I’m just saying I sent her an invite but she’s busy,” Charlie said as the crowd screamed in cheers and excitement.

Ahead of his performance on Sunday, Puth dubbed a scene on Snapchat from Liza Soberano’s movie, “Everyday I Love You.”The video was reposted by a fan and was retweeted by Liza.

The two exchanged messages on Twitter early Sunday fueling a Grammy-nominated Charlie, known for his hits such as “See you Again,” “One Call Away,” “LiLie” / “CharZa” fandom on social “Marvin Gaye,” and “We Don’t Talk Anymore,” on Sunday admitted he is attracted to Liza media. (Alixandra Caole Vila/Philstar. com) Soberano.

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On the PEP Front

People, Events, Places

The three-day 18th Fiesta in America celebration through the lens

Gatsby-style theme --- a distinctive episode of the Roaring 20s that …And then suddenly, it was pulled off with unparalleled over! After months of conscientious grandiosity and topmost preparation and inflexible sophistication. The Friday night planning, the annual three-day of August 12th at doubleTree festivity that celebrates the custom by Hilton in newark, new Jersey, and tradition of the Filipinos this was compactly enveloped side of the world was finally over with nostalgic rendezvous and and done…and it was worth all the sentimental tete-a-tete seemingly while ‘though sans fanfare. in an era of feather boas and tiers The People’s Ball, a most and tiers of pearls. Ably hosted touted summer event that serves

by Lenn Almadin-Thornhill, the as Fiesta in America’s curtainPeople’s Ball was an evening of raiser, pompously unbolted with high-spirited time travel back to an ambitiously conceptualized the days of Charleston, Jazz, Blues, BoBBy T. yalong

and fringed-black dresses.

A well-choreographed production number that featured the Fiesta dancers significantly achieved the evening’s intended ambience which was made even much more awe-inspiring by the performances of Michelle Michelle, Christopher Corro, Mitch Semana, Rasmin diaz, Take The Stage Band, Master Keyboardist Eric Celerio and Top Saxophonist Adam Hutcheson.

This year’s crop of Empowerment Awardees as chaired by darlene Borromeo was composed of Ambassador Mario de Leon, Jr., (diplomatic and Community Service), Jorge Z. Ortoll (Theater and Arts), Lori A. Colineri (Global nursing Leadership), Jan

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

PSYCHIC

Bednar (Career development / Professional Equality), Maria Teresa de Vries (Community Outreach), Jerry & dolores Turco & Family (Life Changing Advocacy), and Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League, Inc, (PACCAL) (Organization of the Year).

The unrelenting revelry

persisted the following two-day weekend that featured a comedymusical extravaganza cum beauty pageant at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, new Jersey.

Aside from the usual Cultural and Food Festivals, networking and Fun Activities, a huge number

SERVICES

Photos by Dominic Senador and Boyet Loverita

of Trade Exhibitor and Sponsor Booths, Free Goya Cooking Show, Total Wellness Presentation, and Business and Franchising in the Philippines Workshop, Fiesta in America attendees experienced a full music galore from the sterling performances of Arato Brothers, Continued on Page 5

Shamcey Supsup-Lee: Life after the crown

by Ching

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M. AlAno

Philstar.com

IF it wasn’t in the news, who’d think that Bb. Pilipinas and 3rd runner-up in Miss Universe 2011 Shamcey Supsup (now Mrs. Lloyd Lee), looking enviably slim and trim, and every inch a beauty queen, gave birth seven months ago to a baby girl?

Fact is, this new mom couldn’t stop talking about her new title and the challenges of breastfeeding her little Nyla Kelcey (nicknamed Nyke) in a recent heart-to-heart, mom-to-mom talk with newshens at the launch of Pigeon’s Only Moms breastfeeding advocacy to coincide with National Breastfeeding Month this August.

When she found out she was pregnant, Shamcey didn’t really buy maternity clothes. “So, I was wearing an old dress that didn’t fit and my husband noticed that it was open at the back,” she relates. “I said, ‘Mahal, style talaga ’yan. Just close it with a safety pin.’”

When her mother-in-law asked her if they needed to buy bottles, sterilizers, etc., she confidently (with passion) said, “No need!

Breastfeeding! Kaya ko ’yan! I really didn’t shop for anything. Maybe the only thing I had was a hand-medown stroller from my husband’s uncle because he had a three-yearold.”

When they found out she was expecting, her excited — and expectant, too — in-laws plied her with Chinese herbal drinks to take.

She got hold of every book you’d expect expectant moms would read. She took breathing classes, got herself some pampering massage, watched videos on Lamaze, how to give a bath to a baby, and breastfeeding.

Having done all that and more, this anxious mom-to-be thought she was well-equipped for the job, she had it all figured out. But as she found out later, much to her frustration, nothing could really prepare one for motherhood and babies don’t really come with a manual.

“I had a birth plan, I wanted everything to be natural,” she discloses. “But I didn’t expect I would end up giving birth by Cesarean Section. Because the anesthesia didn’t work, I could feel the pain and I was so tired that I gave up and told Lloyd I was not gonna push anymore. I was so disappointed in myself — others could do it even if they labored for 24 hours. As for me, I entered the hospital at 11 p.m. and gave birth at 7 a.m., mabilis lang,

Happy, healthy family: Shamcey with husband Lloyd Lee and daughter Nyke.

it was like only six hours of labor.

But with all the pain I was going through, when my obstetrician said they had to do a CS, I exclaimed with much relief, ‘CS!’When I woke up, it was over. When Lloyd came to me, I was crying: Why did I have a CS? I was so disappointed because I planned the birth of my baby and everything didn’t go as planned. But my father-in-law was consoling me, ‘Wag ka na umiyak, healthy si baby, OK si baby.’”

Shamcey heaved a long sigh of relief now that it was over — or so she thought. “When I saw the baby, she was made to latch (to attach to mother’s breast to nurse) as soon as possible, which was also part of the birth plan,” she shares. “At first, it was okay, the baby latched.

If giving birth is the hardest, this is the second hardest. It was so, so hard. I gave birth in the morning and the baby already stayed in my room in the evening. I thought if you put the baby on your tummy, okay na. Not so, ’coz everytime I would breastfeed, I would cry, I couldn’t explain the pain. Maybe because that time, I was still a bit depressed about my CS experience.

I remember one time I told my yaya, who is my cousin, to please take the baby, I couldn’t take it anymore, I didn’t like to see the baby because I felt she kept on crying no matter what I did. And how would I know if she was getting something from my breast? I was so frustrated. There was even a time the nurse had to hand express my milk. I said, ‘Sige na, bahala ka na dyan.’Because I didn’t know what to do anymore.”

Shamcey didn’t know if her baby was getting enough colostrum (the perfect baby food found only in breast milk, it’s low in fat and high in antibodies to keep baby healthy).

“I saw my colostrum, it was so little.

So I asked the nurse if the baby was getting enough colostrum. The

nurse explained it was really only that much that was needed for the baby’s small stomach.”

She adds, “I remember on the second day of feeding, I was asking what I could do because it was so painful. And they were telling me to buy a nipple cream.”

Then came the sleepless, restless nights. “I thought as an Architecture student, I was used to not sleeping when we would work on projects. But breastfeeding was worse; for a whole week, the longest I slept was three hours. Because I was sleeping with my baby, her slightest movement would wake me up. It was really tough. So, after one month, I told my husband, ‘I think I need a pump.’ My ninang told me I have to let the baby latch most of the time to stimulate the milk, so I did that. And I was following on Instagram these pumping moms who were able to exclusively pump even without directly breastfeeding and they were able to maintain their milk supply. I said why don’t I do that? I would ask other moms how long do their babies latch. My friends would say 15 minutes and their babies already feel full. What about my baby, she’d latch for 30 minutes and then cry, then latch again. I couldn’t do anything. There was a time I was just in bed, they’d bring me breakfast, lunch, dinner.”

Breast milk is inarguably the best for babies. From the beginning, Shamcey was really set on breastfeeding her baby and she knew she could do it because she wasn’t tied down to an 8-to-5 office work. This beauty-and-brains magna cum laude Architecture graduate of UP Diliman who topped the national exam for architects with a rating of 86.6 % now runs an architecture firm with her husband. The hardworking young couple also owns a chain of Filipino restaurants.

Photos by Dominic Senador and Boyet Loverita

The three-day 18th Fiesta in America...

From Page 4

Sounds of Manila, Take The Stage, and The Band of Brothers.

Host-comedians Jojo Mabolo and Poka effectually injected their own brand of comedy that tickled the crowd’s funny bones.

While veteran stage performer Jo Awayan indefatigably belted out high-pitched danceable pieces, celebrity guests Paulo Avelino and Julia Montes, courtesy of ABS-CBN’s TFC, successfully sustained the atmospheric energy when they created havoc and pandemonium with their stellar appearances.

The coronation of the 2016 Grand Pilipinas Fiesta Pageant winners under the chairmanship of Tet Palencia and Lilian Vita (based from the choreography of Ogie Afable) more than boosted the vigor and vitality of the Sunday event. Statuesque front girl of the RELM Band Alyssa Jade Shoemaker bested other aspirants when she was crowned Grand Pilipinas Fiesta Princess 2016 after being judged Best in Talent and was earlier declared the first

ever recipient of the Milagros Mendez Legacy Award. Finalist # 1 Dominique “Nikkei” Flores finished First Runner-up (Fiesta Princess America 2016) and walked away with Miss Photogenic and Best in Swimsuit titles. Fiesta Princess East Coast (2nd Runner-up) and Miss Congeniality titles title went to Tiffany Lyn while Melissa Pianin

was crowned Fiesta Princess West Coast 2016 following her Best in Evening Gown award.

Fernando Mendez, Fiesta in America President and CEO, cannot thank Fiesta sponsors enough for their trust and support in making every Fiesta a success: TFC, Goya, Philippine Continued on Page 6

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Karylle lands role in upcoming Singapore TV series

kARYLLe is taking her career to new heights as she takes on a daring role as a pole dancer in Singapore TV Series “Private Investigator.” karylle’s manager Arnold Vegafria posted some photos on Instagram to give karylle’s fans a sneak peek of her part in the crime thriller series. early this August, karylle formally left the show “It’s Showtime,” which she co-hosted alongside Vice Ganda and Anne Curtis.

“Mami-miss ko ang ‘It’s Showtime’ family leaders to increase the odds that WALNUT, CALIFORNIA — kasi dito ako natuto to dream big. Tulad nga some will rise to the “president” Charina Vergara, Marketing Manager nung sabi nila, dito talaga ako nagumpisa position in all sectors of the global of Island Pacific Supermarket was mangarap para sa sarili ko. Ang Filipino, economy, “ added Marily Mondejar, selected Most Influential Filipina world-class athletes, world-class talents, so FWN’s Founder & CeO. “We gather Woman in the World (Global kailangan natin i-develop iyan,” she said as all these amazing women at the FWN100) by the Filipina Women’s she bade goodbye to her fans.

Filipina Summit to inspire each other Network.

This was not the first time karylle and create synergy. We interview The Global FWN100 Award worked on a project outside the Philippines. each awardee so that their collective In 2011, karylle starred in “The kitchen recognizes 100 women of Philippine stories of how they disrupted their ancestry who are changing the Musical,” an international musical TV series professional and personal lives will face of leadership in the global drama aired in over 12 countries in Asia. be part the largest recorded diaspora (Alixandra Caole Vila/Philstar.com) workplace, having reached status for Karylle all dolled up for her “pole dance” role in the upcoming Singapore TV series. in modern times.” outstanding work in their respective “The summit’s theme this year is fields and are recognized for their Influence. Accelerate. Action. Seeing achievement and contributions all the Awardees on stage during the to society, femtorship and legacy. gala awards ceremony assures me Charina was selected from an that the future of our young Pinay outstanding field of nominees from sisters is solid,” said Susie Quesada, around the world.

President of Ramar Foods and FWN Charina is being honored with President. “Awardees often share this the BUILDeR AWARD CATeGORY. inspiring evening with their mothers, Builders have demonstrated grandmothers, daughters, sons, exceptional business impact at spouses, partners, young women a large workplace environment; and men, mentors and bosses from displaying deep passion for a cause their organizations.” through collaborative initiatives or The Filipina Summit’s alliances with other corporations and aspirational sessions include non profit organizations on behalf of “Smart.Young. Unintimidated.Next her own organization; demonstrates Generation Leaders.Yes.We.Are., high potential and skill with measurable results at a government Island Pacific Supermarket’s Charina Make Me A Filipina Millionaire, Make Me A Filipina CeO. The popular ‘Pinay agency, or organization in the public Vergara based on the size and scope of Speed Femtoring’ with selected and private sectors. “Buildership” is “Biyaya ng Lupa” opened the 2016 Sinehan sa Summer at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center on August 9. Consul General Mario L. de 100 young Filipina professionals about building better organizations, their positions, influence in their Leon, Jr. formally opened the film festival underscoring that Sinehan sa Summer will aim to showcase excellent films for Filipino community industries and their communities, who will meet and learn from the leading broken organizations to in New York and mainstream New York. board affiliations and other Global FWN100 awardees is much adjust , repair, and re-align. leadership roles.” awaited. Topic sessions include: “The Global FWN100 women The Global FWN100 Award is STeM, economic empowerment, are dynamic entrepreneurs, a working recognition award with health and Well Being, Violence practitioners, behind-the-scene a meaningful purpose and FWN’s Against Women, entrepreneurship leaders, community, government 2020 Vision: a Filipina woman Breakthroughs. and corporate managers and TOTO, is a 2016 Audience Choice wrote the story of the film. he is NeW YORk—The 2016 leader in every sector of the global Sponsors who have partnered executives who have moved Award at the Asian American also the author of Like a Big Brave Sinehan sa Summer kicked off economy by 2020. The awardees are to-date with FWN are Wells Fargo, through the ranks in large International Film Festival (AIFF), Man, which was published in New with a 1959 restored LVN Picture’s asked to re-invent themselves by AT&T, Seven Seven Corporate Group, organizations, nonprofits, and and a 2015 winner of 4 awards York in 1960 and a production film “Biyaya ng Lupa” on last paying forward, femtoring a young Ramar Foods International, and 5M. government agencies. They are including Special Jury Prize and consultant for the 1982 American Tuesday, August 9 at the kalayaan Filipina woman and bring her to the To sponsor the Filipina Leadership inspiring examples of women Best Director of the Metro Manila movie The Year of the Living hall of the Philippine Center. LVN Filipina Leadership Global Summit Summit or attend the gala awards doing extraordinary work who Film Festival and 2015 Best Actor Dangerously.

Pictures, through the assistance of on August 21-24, 2016 in Cebu, ceremony, go to http://www. will motivate our youth and future and Best Foreign Film at the 19th Consul General Mario de the Film Development Council of Philippines at the Shangri-La Mactan. filipinasummit.org/register leaders,” said Josephine Romero, LA Comedy Festival.

Leon, Jr, who formally opened the the Philippines, gave permission Charina is now a partner in More info: http://www.

Chair of the Global FWN100 A line-up of 5 Cinemalaya Sinehan sa Summer 2016, recalled at no cost to screen the film. helping FWN develop the Filipina filipinasummit.org Worldwide Search and Selection short films will be screened during that Sinehan sa Summer was More than 70 guests from community’s pipeline of qualified (Advertising Supplement) Committee. “They were selected the two Short Films Nights. The originally conceived in 2008 as the Filipino community and Cultural Center of the Philippines an educational tool on Philippine mainstream New York attended granted permission to the Sinehan historical figures and events. he the opening night, which was coto show these 2012 and 2015 said it continually evolved and sponsored by handang Tumulong was re-programmed in 2011 when Cinemalaya films.

Foundation, Inc. and UP Alumni This year, 11 Filipino the Consulate introduced classic, Association in America, Inc. community organizations coindie and short films in the line-up Delighted with the story, the sponsored each Tuesday night making it a five-night event. viewers stayed during the Talk of Sinehan sa Summer namely: “Today, it affords movie Back session and discussed how handang Tumulong Foundation, aficionados in New York to catch the film brings into its plot the Inc. (hTFI), UP Alumni Association a glimpse of Philippine history, resilient and durable family values of America, Inc (UPAAA), Pilipino culture and values as well as of Filipino families and the strong American Unity for Progress, Inc. current social and political issues support of the local community in (UniPro), JCI Philippine-New York, as seen through the lens of both times of ordeals.

Assumption Alumni Association, the well-established and the “BIYAYA NG LUPA” is a 1959 Ateneo Alumni Association, up-and-coming film makers, film produced by LVN Pictures La Salle Alumni Association, whether for the film studios or the directed by Manuel Silos. It was a Philippine-American Communities indie film circles”, said the Consul Golden Bear Best Picture nominee executive Council, Inc (PACeC) and General. at the 10th Berlin International Association of Filipino Teachers in Sinehan sa Summer 2016 will Film Festival held in 1960. It America (AFTA). also offer two indie films, namely was also shown in Tokyo during Sinehan sa Summer, a SUNDALONG kANIN and TOTO the Asian film Festival where flagship project of the Philippine which is scheduled to be shown Leroy Salvador bagged the Best Consulate in partnership with on 23 August and 6 September, Supporting Actor. The film won New York based film experts respectively. SUNDALONG Best Picture and Best Story from including Gil Quito, Fiel Zabat, kANIN is a 2014 Audience Choice the Filipino Academy of Movie Paolo Bitanga and Manila-based Award of Cinemalaya’s Philippine Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) in the Vincent Nebrida, will continue to Independent Film Festival and same year. Celso Al. Carunungan, run every Tuesday from August 2015 Best Feature Film Global an award winning Filipino writer, 9 to September 6 at 6:30 P.M. Award of the International Film novelist and scriptwriter both in Admission is free.

Festival Manhattan (IFMM).

Filipino and english languages,

Charina Vergara recognized globally as a Filipina of Distinction Filipina Leadership Global Summit and Gala Awards Ceremony August 21-24 in Cebu, Philippines at Shangri-La Mactan Resort

Classic film ‘Biyaya ng Lupa’featured at the opening night of the 2016 Sinehan sa Summer

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UPNAII sets annual celebration in October

The University of the Philippines Nursing Alumni Association International Inc. (UPNAII) will celebrate its upcoming 37th Annual educational Conference and Convention on October 14 and 15 in Texas.

With the theme “Crossing and Closing the Gap: Nursing Then and Now,” the the two-day convention will be hosted by the UPNAA-Texas Chapter. The event will take place in South Shore harbour Resort and Spa 2500 South Shore Boulevard, League City.

UPNAII is an international organization of nursing graduates of the University

of the Philippines residing in the United States and other countries abroad that aims to foster professional and personal development of its members through education, research, support and collaboration.

Classes celebrating their Jubilee year include 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011.

The Breakfast Conference will take place from 7:00 AM - 12:30 PM on Friday, October 14, followed by the Luncheon Reunion at 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM. On October 15, Saturday Dinner and Dance will start at 5:00 PM.

Participants who wanted to attend the event can register at upnaii.org. early Bird Registration deadline is on Sept. 20, 2016.

Founded on July 15, 1979, UPNAII was initially called the UP-PGh Alumni Association of California. The group’s founding alumni were simply getting together, renewing ties, and enjoying friendships. These activities soon became an annual reunion celebration of friends and colleagues from both the School and College of Nursing.

Over the years, UPNAII continuously expands in its pursuit of excellence and professionalism in the field of nursing.

The three-day 18th Fiesta in America...

From Page 5

info@asianjournalinc.com

Airlines, AARP, Western Union, T Mobile, Tancinco Law Offices, Port Jersey, hackensack UMC, LBC, Fil-Aid, horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, hudson Toyota, Resort World, Metrobank, Park Avenue Acura, Belmont hotels & Resort, Madrid Crost Law Group, Joey Cruise, Organique, Liberty Savings,

and all media partners: Asian Journal, One Philippines, The Filipino Reporter, The Filipino express, Fil-Am Who’s Who, Inquirer.Net, Presko, and the Filipino Catholic.

What better way to describe the kaleidoscopic occasion than through series of photographs… since pictures can paint a thousand words…much more

than what a poet could utter in prolific lingo.

Feast on a voluminous number of photographs as captured by Fiesta’s official shutterbugs and gaudily indulge your senses on Fiesta in America’s three-day merriment.

For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.

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