New York/New Jersey -- December 04 -- 10, 2015

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Volume 9 – Issue 10 • 16 Pages

de c e mbe r 4 - 1 0 , 2 0 1 5 Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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Showdown on Grace Poe disqualification case shifts to Supreme Court

by Tarra

Quismundo Inquirer.net

The words “risks” and “miracle,” projected on the face of presidential candidate Sen. Grace Poe during a PowerPoint presentation at a presscon on Thursday, Dec. 3, may well be the keywords to her quest for the presidency, under siege by a string of DQ cases.

Inquirer.net photo by Raffy Lerma

DATELINE

the battle for the elimination of sen. Grace Poe from next year’s presidential election moves to the supreme Court next week, after the senate electoral tribunal (set) on thursday, Dec. 3 affirmed its Nov. 17 ruling that Poe is a natural-born filipino. the nine-member set maintained its 5-4 vote and junked the motion for reconsideration brought by petitioner rizalito David, who had sought the ouster of Poe from the senate on the grounds that she was not a natural-born citizen of the Philippines. “motion denied. same voting,” sen. Vicente sotto, one of the senators on the set, told reporters in a text message after the tribunal’s meeting at a hotel in Pasay City. sen. Loren Legarda, a member of the set, said the decision came in just one minute, with the members keeping their Nov. 17 votes to reject David’s contenPAGE A2

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

White House strengthens visa waiver program the White house announced changes to a visa waiver program aimed at securely screening migrants from 38 nations not required to get visas before traveling to the Us. In light of the deadly Paris terror attacks in November that left 130 dead, the Department of homeland security (Dhs) will now gather more information from travelers about past visits to countries, such as syria and Iraq, the White house said on monday, Nov. 30. the White house characterized the “enhancements” as “a move that would stymie terrorists who try to use lost or stolen passports to travel.”

“Where we have opportunities to make meaningful enhancements, we won’t hesitate,” White house spokesman Josh earnest told reporters in Paris for the UN climate change summit. “We are clear-eyed about the stakes.”

PAGE A3

14 killed, 21 injured in San Bernardino mass shooting by agnes

ConsTanTe & allyson esCobar AJPress

tWo suspects in a san Bernardino mass shooting on Wednesday, Dec. 2, that left at least 14 people dead and 21 injured were killed in a shootout with police more than four hours after the rampage. syed rizwan farook, 28, a Us-born health inspector for san Bernardino County, and his wife, tashfeen malik, 27, carried out what authorities call a “wellplanned” attack during a holiday party for san Bernardino County employees at the Inland regional Center. “these people came prepared to do what they did as if they were on a mission,” said san Bernardino police chief Jarrod Burguan, according to NBC News. “they were armed with long guns, not handguns.” the shooting was reported to have occurred at around 11am, minutes after some sort of argument involving farook, according to multiple accounts recounted

by Burguan. following the argument, farook stormed out. then, he and his wife, who were later identified, returned in full assault gear and guns, and opened fire on attendees.

An “explosive device” was also found in a secondary sweep of the building, authorities said, while objects made to appear as pipe bombs were thrown during the pursuit, said meredith Davis, Bureau PAGE A2

President Benigno S. Aquino III joins fellow leaders during the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF) High Level Event at Le Maroni of the Blue Zone UNFCCC Le Bourget in Paris, France on Monday, Nov. 30. Earlier, the President delivered his National Statement on the Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Malacañang photo by Joseph Vidal

PH: Vulnerable countries need funds ‘with no strings attached’

by John

nery Inquirer.net

PArIs—halfway through the first week of the climate change negotiations in Paris, the Philippines is broadcasting an appeal for strong adaptation support, without conditions.

“We need predictable, scaled-up funding to adapt to the consequences of climate change. the world must heed this call if they are sincere in helping developing nations. there should be no strings attached in this assistance,” secretary emmanuel

PAGE A3

mxakato-Diseko of south Africa, reminded delegates that, under the UN Convention, “developed countries are obliged to provide financial resources, including technology transfer and capacity building to all developing countries. this is a legal obligation under the Convention. It is neither ‘aid’ nor ‘charity’, nor is it the same as development assistance.” the 2007 UNfCCC report on “Investment and financial flows to Address Climate Change” estimated that developing countries would PAGE A2

Upheld: Jury’s $4.5M award to trafficked Filipino teachers Los ANGeLes—A Us appeals court monday, Dec. 1 upheld a jury’s $4.5 million award to a class of roughly 350 filipino teachers who accused recruitment companies of demanding they pay massive processing and placement fees or face losing their jobs in Louisiana.

Affirming a California federal judge’s amended judgment following the jury verdict, the the Ninth Circuit decided that Los Angelesbased Universal Placement International Inc. and its principal, Lourdes “Lulu” Navarro, had to pay back the fees, along with about $1.3 million in attorneys’ fees. the teachers on November 4 had asked the appeals court to uphold a federal jury’s $4.5 million award.

A class of 347 filipino teachers, who came to the United states to work on h-1B guest worker visas, said recruitment agencies and their

Study: Harder for California students to get into state public universities UN tribunal to issue ruling

tIGhter admissions standards and lack of state funding are making it more difficult for California high school students to be accepted into the state’s public university system, a new report found. the Campaign for College opportunity on monday, Nov. 30 released “Access Denied: rising selectivity at California’s Public Universities,” which revealed that the University of California (UC) and California state University (CsU) systems lack the capacity, among other factors, to serve the state’s growing population of collegeeligible and ready students, forcing campuses to turn away a significant portion of applicants.

California is currently ranked 49th in the country in the percentage of undergraduate students enrolled in a four-year university. the report went on to note, “when our four-

de Guzman, chief of the Philippine delegation to the 21st Conference of Parties to the UN framework Convention on Climate Change, or CoP21, said in a statement. the Philippines, current chair of the Climate Vulnerable forum, an advocacy alliance, added its voice to the call of the key negotiating bloc known as the Group of 77 and China for developed economies to honor their “legal obligation” of sharing financial resources with struggling countries. earlier, the G77 and China spokesperson, Ambassador Nozipho

agents misled them and collected millions of dollars in fees, according to Courthouse News service. they reportedly paid up to $16,000 each to work in public schools in Louisiana. the teachers incurred debts and the recruiters tried to silence them with threats of legal action and deportation, the teachers’ lawsuit claimed.

Louisiana school districts chose Universal International Placement, based in Los Angeles Koreatown, its president Lourdes “Lulu” Navarro and Quezon City-based PArs International Placement Agency, to recruit the teachers.

Mairi Nunag-Tanedo is one of hundreds of teachers the school districts hired Navarro recruited from the Philippines to teach in Louisiana even though she was a convicted public schools. swindler who served time for defrauding the California medi-Cal sys- in New Jersey, according to the Autem of more than $1 million. she also gust 5, 2010 complaint. (inquirer. pleaded guilty to money laundering net)

on PH vs China case by 2016 by niña

P. CalleJa

Inquirer.net

The Philippine delegation at the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, Netherlands was comprised of representatives from the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the government.

the United Nations Arbitral tribunal concluded the second round of oral arguments on the merits in the Philippines’ case challenging China’s claims over nearly the entire south China sea, announcing that it will issue a ruling by 2016. “the tribunal now enters its deliberations and intends to issue its award in 2016,” the international tribunal said in a press PAGE A3

PDP-Laban: Sorry for Duterte curses

by ChrisTine

o. avendaño

Inquirer.net

he is not what he is without the expletive, but a hundred of it can be damaging.

As sen. Aquilino Pimentel III and his party apologized for the profanities uttered by Davao City mayor rodrigo Duterte, senate minority Leader Juan Ponce enrile called the presidential candidate an “astute politician” who was in fact testing society’s “smoothness or roughness.”

At one point, enrile even compared Duterte to the outspoken American billionaire Donald trump, whose campaign for the

republican nomination for the Us presidency had been marked by equally outrageous statements. “on behalf of the party, I want to apologize if there was anyone who was offended. that’s the local campaign style,” Pimentel said minutes after Duterte made off-the-wall statements during the proclamation of his tandem with senate majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on monday, Nov. 30.

“In local campaigns, the more brusque you are, the better,” said Pimentel, the PDP-Laban president.’

PAGE A4

A december 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK ANd NeW JerSeY ASIAN JOUrNAL

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

From the Front Page

Showdown on Poe...

PAGE A1 tion that Poe should be considered stateless because she was a foundling.

Poe was abandoned in a church in Jaro, Iloilo province, shortly after birth in 1968. She was later adopted by the late movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. and his wife, movie actress Susan Roces.

‘It only took a minute’ She is now the favorite candidate for President in next year’s presidential election, leading Vice President Jejomar Binay, administration candidate Mar Roxas, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago in the polls.

“There was no change. We almost did not talk about it. There

was no more voting. It took a minute,” Legarda said.

She said the members of the tribunal had a longer discussion about the United Nations arbitral tribunal’s recently concluded proceedings on the Philippines’ petition to invalidate China’s claim to almost the entire South China Sea. “Our discussions were exciting because we talked about international law,” Legarda said.

On Nov. 17, Senators Sotto, Legarda, Cynthia Villar, Pia Cayetano and Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino voted to throw out David’s petition to oust Poe from the Senate.

Sen. Nancy Binay, a daughter of the Vice President, joined the three Supreme Court associate justices on the tribunal—Teresita Leonardo-de Castro, Arturo Brion and Antonio Carpio—in the vote against Poe. The case decided by the SET is separate from the four cases in the Commission on Elections (Comelec) seeking to disqualify Poe from the race for Malacañang.

Poe’s camp thanked the SET for the favorable ruling.

“Senator Poe is grateful to the SET members for continuing to uphold the rights of foundlings, Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian, a spokesperson for Poe, said in a statement.

Gatchalian said the SET ruling was “a clear indication that Senator Poe is a natural-born Filipino.”

“In the coming days, we hope the Comelec does the same and upholds the rights of foundlings,” he said.

Long legal battle Poe’s running mate, Sen. Francis Escudero, also welcomed the SET ruling, but said the camp expected a long legal battle over the legality of Poe’s candidacy.

“There’s no Plan B, C, D or E. There’s only one plan,” Escudero told reporters in Iloilo City.

He said only the Supreme Court could rule with finality on a disqualification case against a candidate.

The filing of cases against Poe is meant to weaken her candidacy, he added.

“Even if they (the petitioners) lose, at least they have made it difficult for [her] or at least they PAGE A5

PH: Vulnerable countries need funds...

PAGE A1 need anywhere between $28 billion and $67 billion annually by 2030 for adaptation requirements — that is, retrofitting their economies to meet changing conditions caused by the consequences of global warming.

In the same statement, Alicia Ilaga, lead Philippine negotiator for adaptation and director of the Climate Change office of the Department of Agriculture, said the Paris climate treaty must specify that adaptation finance will be grants-based. “Assistance for infrastructure improvement,

the relocation of communities to places that are safer, require money. We shouldn’t have to be subjected to having more debt from the international community to get that help,” she said.

Climate funds that come in the form of interest-bearing loans would be difficult for developing countries like the members of the CVF to access. Grants, or outright donations, would be easier to secure.

The Forum, a coalition of 43 middle-sized economy and smallisland developing countries headed by the Philippines, made a dramatic call last Monday for strong

14 killed, 21 injured...

PAGE A1 of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) spokeswoman, according to NBC News.

Suspects Farook was an employee for the San Bernardino County Public Health Department, where he worked for five years. He attended the same party the previous year, and did not appear out of place, The New York Times reported.

CNN reported that law enforcement officials said he was reported to have been in communication with multiple international terrorism subjects being investigated by the FBI. The news agency further reported that Farook was radicalized, which contributed to his motive. However, law enforcement authorities said other issues, such as workplace grievances, may have also played a role.

In 2013, Farook traveled to Saudi Arabia for a few weeks for the Hajj, a pilgrimage devout Muslims are required to complete at one point in their lives.

The New York Times reported that Farhan Khan, who is married to Farook’s sister, said the couple met on a dating website, and that Farook traveled to Saudi Arabia at least two times: first to meet Malik’s family and a subsequent time to marry her.

Malik became a naturalized Pakistani-American citizen through her marriage to Farook two years ago.

On the day of the shooting, the suspects left their six-month-old daughter with Farook’s grand-

mother, saying they had to go to a doctor’s appointment.

People who worked with Farook described him as a quiet person.

“He never struck me as a fanatic, he never struck me as suspicious,” Griselda Reisinger, a colleague who worked with Farook until May, told the Los Angeles Times.

Another co-worker who shared a cubicle with Farook, Patrick Baccari, said his colleague never acted out of the ordinary. He added that Farook hardly ever started conversations with other people and almost never talked about religion at work.

Another person acquainted with him, Maria Gutierrez, told the New York Daily News that Farook was “quiet but always polite.”

Khan also described the couple as “very private people” and said Farook was a “normal person,” the NY Times reported.

At a press conference in Anaheim, Khan said he was in “shock,” ABC News reported.

“I am very sad, deeply sad and shocked something like this happened here in my community.

I love this country, I’m living in this community for a long time and something like this happened here,” Khan said.

“On behalf of my family, we are all shocked and very sorry for what happened,” he continued.

“I have no idea why [Farook] would do that.”

As of press time, police have yet to determine a motive for the attack, but Burguan said investigators do not believe an individu-

support of adaptation actions.

The Manila-Paris Declaration put in writing the group’s ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to below 1.5°C. The CVF pointed out that developing countries are already “leading the design of adaptation plans” as reflected in the intended nationally determined contributions or INDCs they submitted before the start of COP21.

“The Paris agreement can make a difference on the ground if it supports the implementation of these proactive adaptation actions, and further efforts to lead by example,” the CVF said. al was targeted in the incident.

In 2013, a man with his name and title working at the agency earned $53,000, according to records cited by CNN. Reports also say there was no indication his job was in jeopardy.

President Barack Obama on Thursday, December 3, said the attack could have possibly been terrorist related, but provided no confirmation.

“At this stage we do not yet know why this terrible event occurred,” he said at the Oval Office.

“It is possible that this was terrorist related, but we don’t know. It’s also possible that this was workplace related,” Obama said, adding that more conclusions will be drawn after the FBI conducts a substantial number of interviews, CNN reported.

Burguan made a similar comment.

“We have no information at this point to indicate that this is terrorist related, in the traditional sense that people may be thinking,” he said, according to the LA Times. “Obviously, at a minimum, we have a domestic terrorist-type situation that occurred here.”

Earlier reports of a possible third suspect were dismissed on Thursday. Although a third person was detained after the attack, Burguan said the person was connected to a different case.

Guns used were purchased legally The guns used in the San Bernardino shooting were purchased legally in the United States, an ATF spokesman said, PAGE A4

Dateline USa

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NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • DEcEmbER 4-10, 2015

A

White House strengthens... Nearly 5K immigrant minors crossed the US border in October PAGE A1 The nation’s nearly 30-year-old visa waiver program helps bring nearly 20 million people from 38 countries (i.e. a majority of European countries, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan) to the US every year with less stringent screening. Under the program, citizens of participating countries are allowed to travel to the US without a visa for stays of 90 days or less if they meet certain requirements.

Supporters of the waiver program, which includes a cross-section of lawmakers from tourismreliant states and the businesses that support them, have said the program offers an economic boost. Opponents worry the program could serve as a backdoor for potential terrorists to travel to ISIS-run terrorist training camps in other countries, then travel back and forth from Europe, using the program to come to the US. The federal changes were announced as the White House faces criticism and pushback from lawmakers in Congress against President Barack Obama’s plans to welcome an additional 10,000 Syrian

refugees over the next fiscal year.

“As opposed to the rhetoric we have heard from the Republicans, the administration is offering it as an alternative...to rationalize and strengthen the programs that track persons so we have better information and can implement cautious policies,” said Julian Zelizer, a professor of history and public affairs at Princeton University, according to NBC News.

Though the polls have shown a majority of Americans who also oppose the plan, officials such as CIA Director John Brennan to Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC), the chairman of the Senate Intelligence committee and California Democrat Sen. Diane Feinstein, the committee’s ranking member, are more worried that the visa waiver program is a greater concern in that it makes it much harder to keep track of potential terrorists and prevent attacks in the States.

As the administration works to address those concerns, DHS will also look at pilot programs for collecting biometric information, such as fingerprints from visa PAGE A4

Study: Harder for California...

PAGE A1

Released on Monday, Nov. 30, the Campaign for College Opportunity’s new report found that it is harder for eligible California students to be admitted into the University of California and California State University systems, due to insufficient funding and rigorous admissions standards.

Infographics courtesy of the Campaign for College Opportunity

year public university system cannot serve all qualified California students, we produce fewer bachelor’s degree holders and ultimately hurt the economy and threaten the future of our state.”

The findings come amidst the application deadline for fall 2016 admission to the UC and CSU campuses. The UC system expects about 200,000 applications for admission, while CSU anticipates 800,000, according to EdSource.

For fall 2015, 60 percent of California residents who applied were accepted by UC schools (down

from 63 percent the previous year), while about three-quarters were admitted into CSU schools.

At CSU, 139,697 eligible students were turned away between 2009 and 2014.

In contrast, 62.2 percent of international students were accepted by UC schools, seeing an increase from 60.1 percent, a Reuters report stated.

Given the budget cuts at UC and CSU campuses, critics allege that the public universities are instead accepting out-of-state and internaPAGE A4

by Allyson

EscobAr

AJPress

ACCORDING to US Customs and Border Protection data, nearly 5,000 unaccompanied immigrant children were caught crossing the US border with Mexico in October of this year, almost double the number from last year.

In the figures released Tuesday, Nov. 24, the number of family members crossing together nearly tripled from October 2014, from 2,162 to 6,029.

Despite expectations of lower numbers due to the colder winter months, a stronger law enforcement along the border, and efforts by Mexican authorities to stem the stream of Central American migrants, the number of fleeing minors along with their families has grown tremendously.

Though tens of thousands of women and children from Central America were caught at the border during summer 2014, that number had dropped by nearly half during the 2015 fed-

eral fiscal year ending Sept. 30, according to Fox News.

“The 4,973 unaccompanied children who were caught at the border last month is the highest number that Washington, D.C.based think tank Washington Office on Latin America has recorded for October since their records began in 2009,” said Adam Isacson, a border expert and senior analyst.

“The high numbers buck the typical trends of crossings peaking in spring then declining through summer and fall,” Isacson said. However, an uptick in families and children crossing in July has caused numbers to stay at over 4,000 each month since.

“Rather than a big jump, it’s been a steady burn,” he said.

“I think we are almost in crisis mode with this many months of sustained arrivals.”

Most children and families trying to cross the border in October were from El Salvador, a tiny country where increased violence has averaged 30 mur-

UN tribunal to issue ruling...

PAGE A1 statement e-mailed on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

The Philippines wrapped up its arguments on Monday on the last day of the weeklong hearings on the merits and remaining issues of jurisdiction and admissibility in the arbitration initiated by the Philippines against China under the United Nations Convention on Law of

the Sea (UNCLOS).

The hearing, which started last November 24, was held in the Peace Palace, the headquarters of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, the Netherlands.

The Philippines brought up a case before the international court in a bid to stop China’s incursions and massive land reclamation works in its territo-

ders a day in August. Previously, Guatemala had the most families and children apprehended at the border, said US Customs and Border Protection.

While the Rio Grande Valley remains the center of migration flows in Texas, immigrants are starting to venture farther west of that area. The number of unaccompanied children caught in Del Rio sector jumped from 120 to 237, while 187 children were apprehended in the remote Big Bend area, up from just 13 last year.

According to internal intelligence files from the Homeland Security Department, most families who were interviewed told the federal border patrol agency officials that smugglers decided where they would try to cross. They reported that the cost ranged from about $5,000 to cross the border near Matamoros or Reynosa, Mexico, across the border from the Rio Grande Valley, but was about $1,500 to $2,000 to cross near Ciudad Acuna, across the river

from Del Rio. The White House administration was caught off guard by the sudden surge of children and families in 2014, and has made several efforts to curb the heavy flow of people crossing the border, including mass media campaigns in Central America to scare people out of attempting the dangerous journey.

US Customs and Border Protection said in a statement this week that “the campaigns are still in place,” and highlight that “those attempting to come here illegally are a top priority for removal.”

Immigrant families who were caught crossing the border between July and September told US immigration agents that they made the dangerous trip in part because they felt they were likely to succeed, according to the intelligence files. Immigrants spoke of “permisos,” or passes, that they believed would allow them to remain in the United States. n

rial sea.

After concluding the hearing, the court has given all the parties until December 9, 2015 to review and submit corrections to the transcripts of the hearing.

The Philippines, on the other hand, may submit further written responses to the questions posed by the Tribunal during the hearing and other related materials by December 18, the Hague court said.

While China has refused to

participate in the entire arbitral proceedings as the country claims “indisputable sovereignty” over almost the entire South China Sea, the tribunal has decided to give China the chance to comment in writing by January 1, 2016.

The tribunal cited a provision under Article 5 of Annex VII to UNCLOS that states that the tribunal must “assure each party a full opportunity to be heard and to present its case.”

A december 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK ANd NeW JerSeY ASIAN JOUrNAL

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Zuckerberg and wife to give away 99% of Facebook shares

by Agnes

ConstAnte AJPress

MARK Zuckerberg, Facebook co-founder and chief executive, announced Tuesday, Dec. 1, that he and his wife will give away 99 percent of their shares in the company – which are currently worth over $45 billion – during their lifetimes to charitable causes.

In an open letter to his new daughter, Max, whose birth last week was only made public Tuesday, Zuckerberg said he and his wife, Dr. Priscilla Chan, would donate their wealth to make the world a better place for her and the rest of her generation.

“Like all parents, we want you to grow up in a world better than ours today,” he wrote in the letter. “Our society has an obligation to invest now.”

The couple also said they launched the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative to manage the money through a limited liability corporate structure. The organization will initially focus on curing disease, connecting people, building strong communities and personalized learning.

No further details were provided on the how and when the couple will distribute its wealth, though Zuckerberg said further specifics would be released once he and Chan return from paternity and maternity leave, respectively.

“Having this child has made us think about all of the things that should be improved in the world for her whole generation,” Zuckerberg said in a video. “The only way that we reach our full human potential is if we’re able to unlock the gifts of every person around the world.”

Zuckerberg’s announcement, along with previous donations, reflects a generational shift, philanthropy experts said, according to the Los Angeles Times.

He and Chan have previously committed $1.6 billion to charitable causes, a spokesperson for the family said, according to the New York Times. These include $120 million to support education in underserved Bay Area communities; $100 million in 2010 to improve public schools in Newark; $75 million to San Francisco General Hospital; and $25 million to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The NY Times reported that Zuckerberg’s pledge is the latest indicator of an increasing interest in philanthropy among young Silicon Valley billionaires who, unlike the wealthy in previous generations, appear eager to share their fortunes while they are still young.

“The way Gen X and millennials practice philanthropy is very different from the World War II generation and the baby boomers,” said Marian Stern, adjunct

assistant professor in philanthropy at New York University’s School of Professional Studies, according to the LA Times. “Millennial donors are less patient.

They want to use their money and they want to see changes now. It’s not surprising, given they’ve grown up in a fast-moving world.”

When now 31-year-old Zuckerberg was 26, he signed the Giving Pledge, vowing to give away the majority of his wealth, along with other tech leaders, including Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and Oracle Executive Chairman Larry Ellison.

In the past, the wealthy waited until they were old or dead before donating large amounts to charity.

Whatever Zuckerberg and Chan decide to invest in, they will be able to enjoy the rewards of donating at a relatively young age, Melanie Ulle, founder and chief executive of Philanthropy Expert, an organization dedicated to maximizing philanthropic efforts, told the LA Times.

“What Mark and Priscilla are doing is giving themselves the opportunity to enjoy their philanthropy,” she said, “because it’s really hard to enjoy it when you’re dead.”

In a statement, Microsoft founder Bill Gates and his wife,

PDP-Laban: Sorry for Duterte...

PAGE A1 Duterte got brickbats for cursing Pope Francis for the monster traffic jams in Metro Manila during the January papal visit as well as for his admission of being a womanizer and for killing criminals.

Pimentel told reporters the party and he himself had urged Duterte to cut down on his cursing as well as lessen emphasis on stories of extrajudicial executions.

But on Monday, Pimentel said Duterte got obviously carried away. “If it’s a speech without one curse, then it will not be Mayor Duterte, but hopefully not 100 curses,” Pimentel said.

In due time, he said, Duterte will be able to make adjustments before the presidential campaign begins in February next year.

On Duterte’s cursing the Pope, he and his political party asked the people’s understanding be-

cause this was the “personality” of their presidential candidate.

“It was unfortunate that these undesirable curse words were included in the same sentence where the name of the Pope was mentioned. It was an accident no one intended or anticipated but it has happened. So we hope for your understanding and we will learn lessons from this incident,” he said.

Pimentel shrugged off Duterte’s claims of having killed criminals, noting that no case had been brought against him in the past 20 years. “So for now, we are just taking it as a colorful language, a colorful illustration of the political will of the messenger,” he said.

In his campaign, Pimentel said he expected Duterte to talk about federalism, and stopping criminality and corruption.

Enrile said Duterte was good in politics and was apparently

telling people that he was not pretentious.

Duterte’s message, said Enrile, was: “I’m telling you what I am.

You take me for what I am. Now, if you elect me, then, you know the kind of person I am so, you better behave and take note of what I’ve been saying.”

Enrile likened Duterte to Donald Trump, “outspoken and insulting all the people in America.”

“He’s going to the extreme situation to test, what do you call this, the smoothness or roughness of Philippine society. Normally, people who aspire for high office would become very prudent in their statements, they’re guarded. But you have a man who is telling you who he is,” he said.

“Some are angry, some are shocked, everybody is getting an impression about him,” Enrile said.

Melinda, congratulated the Zuckerbergs.

“The example you’re setting today is an inspiration to us and the world,” they said. “We can be confident of this: Max and every child born today will grow up in a world that is better than the one we know now. As you say, ‘Seeds planted now will grow.’ Your work will bear fruit for many decades to come.”

Gates is among those well-off who engaged in philanthropic activities much later, admitting that running Microsoft was all he Mark Zuckerberg focused on when he was in his woman for the family told the 20s and 30s.

The Chan Zuckerberg Initia- NY Times that additional profits tive, through its status as a lim- from investments will be directed ited liability corporation, will be back into the Initiative for future able to invest in companies and projects.

Despite the large sum the lobby for legislation, among other actions, which non-profit or- Zuckerbergs have committed ganizations are prohibited from to donating, the Facebook codoing under tax laws. A spokes- founder plans to keep his major-

14 killed, 21 injured...

PAGE A2 according to RT. The Associated Press reported that two were bought by someone who is now under investigation.

The suspects had two .223caliber assault rifles, which are powerful enough to break through the standard bulletproof vest worn by police officers. They also had two semi-automatic handguns manufactured by Ilama and Smith & Wesson, according to Burguan.

Authorities, including the FBI, said the level of preparedness and equipment used suggests a certain degree of planning, RT reported.

“They were in tactical gear and have several mags full of ammunition fashioned to their body so they were ready for a gunfight should that occur,” Davis of the ATF told NBC News. “With my experiences with other mass shootings, there are indicators this was well-planned out and it was to be violent in nature.”

Police found more than 1,400 rounds for the rifle and over 200 rounds of 9mm ammunition in the suspects’ SUV, RT reported; 2,000 rounds for the handgun ad 2,500 rounds for the rifle were found at their home in Redlands.

Also found were 12 pipe bombstyle devices and hundreds of

tools police said could be used to build improvised explosive devices, ABC News reported.

Victims identified The names of the victims of Wednesday’s attack were released Thursday. Many of them included employees of Inland Regional Center, as well as the San Bernardino County environmental health department.

The victims included Daniel Kaufman, 42, who ran and trained clients in the coffee shop at the Regional Center; Damian Meins, a physical education teacher in Riverside; Nicholas Thalasinos, 52, an environmental health specialist; Sierra Clayborn, 27, a graduate of the University of California at Riverside; Mike Raymond Wetzel, a loving father; Robert Adams, 40; Isaac Amanios, 60; Bennetta Bet-Badal, 46; Harry Bowman, 46; Juan Espinoza, 50; Aurora Godoy, 26; Shannon Johnson, 45; Tin Nguyen, 31; and Yvette Velasco.

“I’ve lost so many friends and co-workers,” a saddened Leilah Kelsey, a supervisor at the San Bernardino County Health Department who survived the attacks, told the Daily News. “We don’t know who’s all gone yet.

We don’t have all the names yet.

There’s so many people unaccounted for.”

White House strengthens...

PAGE A3 waiver travelers, the White House said in a statement.

A task force in the House of Representatives will meet this week to discuss details of the program, and hopes to craft legislation to pass “by the end of the year,” said House Majority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif).

McCarthy told reporters that lawmakers were “interested in requiring all countries in the waiver program to issue e-passports with chips and biometrics.” Another intended change would be to make sure that passengers were

screened against a database of lost and stolen passports.

In the meantime, the White House said administration officials are talking to senators from both parties about the official visa waiver program changes, and have urged Congress to give Homeland Security additional powers for extra security measures, such as increasing fines for air carriers that fail to verify passport data, and requiring all travelers to use passports with embedded security chips.

The White House also wants to expand the use of a “pre-clear-

Study: Harder for California...

PAGE A3 tional students, who pay more in tuition.

The average grade point average (GPA) of admitted students to six of the nine UC campuses in 2014 was over a 4.0. The median SAT score of admitted students to UCLA, UC Berkeley, and UC San Diego was less than 400 points away from a perfect score. The gap between the number of UC applicants and those admitted has more than doubled between 1996 and 2013.

“It is a shame that hard-working, talented California students need to be virtually perfect to get a spot at the University of California. It should not be more difficult for a student to enroll directly in a four-year university than it was for previous generations,” Michele Siqueiros, president of the Campaign for College Opportunity, said.

Students applying to the CSU system find a similar challenge of rising admissions standards. Six of the 23 campuses now require a higher GPA and/or SAT score than the CSU baseline eligibility requirements. Within the CSU campuses, impacted majors that require a higher GPA and/or SAT score have increased by 135 percent since 2004.

“CSU denying 30,000 eligible students last year is heartbreaking for all the talented students whose only opportunity to succeed professionally relies on their ability to access a high quality and affordable university education,” said Ivna Gusmao, a recently retired college counselor from Reseda High School who has been serving students in the Los Angeles public schools for over 30 years, in a statement. “Getting into the UC for students today is more like playing the lottery. College counselors can no longer tell students with any accuracy where they are likely to get

in even if they had a 5.0 GPA.” The report also pointed out that the 1960 Master Plan for Higher Education — which adapts to California’s population growth and is still the current structure being used — is outdated. The plan envisioned the public university system to be free and available for all qualified California residents and placed caps on admission to UC and CSU schools at the top 12.5 percent and top 33 percent, respectively, of state students based on academic achievement.

However, funding for the public universities has dropped — an estimated $1 billion lost between 2006 and 2014 — at the expense of raising tuition, increasing class sizes and decreasing enrollment.

Figures show that the cost to attend a UC has increased by 200 percent in the past 15 years. For the 2015-16 school year, the estimated average cost is $29,500 for those living off campus and $33,600 for those living on campus, according to the UC Admissions website.

“Many more students struggle to pay tuition and fees that have skyrocketed in recent years. It is imperative that California reinvest in its public higher education system so that California youth from all backgrounds, especially lowincome students of color, have equal opportunity to enroll in and graduate from the state’s fouryear universities,” Stewart Kwoh, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles, said.

In November, UC President Janet Napolitano held an ethnic media roundtable to discuss perceptions and barriers faced by minority communities in applying to the university system.

Addressing the costs, Napolitano cited that more than half of California resident students at UCs pay no tuition because of programs that cover that cost for

ity voting position in the company’s stock for the foreseeable future, the NY Times reported. In a filing to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Facebook said Zuckerberg plans “to sell or gift no more than $1 billion of Facebook stock each year for the next three years.”

The coroner’s teams were still working at Inland Regional on Thursday, and law enforcement said that some of the bodies of victims remained at the center, according to New York Times.

Among the injured included several who were in critical condition, but “stabilized,” according to officials. Three of the wounded were listed in fair condition at nearby Loma Linda University Medical Center, said Kerry Heinrich, chief executive of the hospital.

“All of the patients are gunshot wound victims,” he said, not giving any more detail.

Twenty four-year-old Kevin Ortiz, a county environment inspector, was shot twice in the leg and once in the shoulder. He was able to survive and call his family to tell them he was “in a lot of pain,” but okay. “That’s Kevin, he’s a fighter,” said his brother, David.

Ortiz is being treated at the Arrowhead Regional Memorial Hospital in Colton, CA, which had five patients from the shooting as of Thursday morning, according to San Bernardino County spokeswoman Felisa Cardona.

22-year-old Jennifer Stevens from Redondo Beach, who suffered a gunshot wound to her abdomen, was in “stable condition,” according to her mother.

PAGE A5

ance program” in foreign airports, to allow border officials to collect and screen biometric information before visa waiver travelers can board plans going to the US. Earnest urged Congress to pass legislation before the holidays.

“We saw Congress a couple of weeks ago pass legislation related to refugees that would not actually do anything to enhance our national security, they were able to take those steps in three or four days. Surely over the course of the next three weeks, they should be able to do something that actually would strengthen our national security,” he said. (Allyson Escobar / AJPress) families that make $80,000 or less.

Pell Grants, which offer awards of up to $5,775, depending on family income, are also options; 41 percent of UC students are benefitting from them.

“The state’s economic future depends on our students being able to access, afford and complete a postsecondary degree,” said California State Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de León in a statement reacting to the report. “A majority of the 6 million children attending our K-12 public schools are low-income and underrepresented minorities, and California must take a more strategic approach to establish a pipeline from our K-12 school system to our higher education institutions.”

With its findings, the Campaign for College Opportunity has proposed that Governor Jerry Brown and state lawmakers do a strategic overhaul to prioritize funding for public higher education, so that more California students are accepted into the public four-year universities.

Further, the report called for caps on the number of out-of-state and international students who are admitted.

“Increased competition for limited spots in college is not a win-win situation – there are winners and losers at the precise time we need more educated Californians to maintain a thriving economy. Just like California’s drought threatens our future and calls for immediate solutions, so too does the shortage of a college-educated populace,” Siqueiros added.

Recently, UC regents approved aRecently, UC regents approved a plan to increase the enrollment of California undergraduates by 10,000 by 2018. For the 2016-17 term, $25 million was allocated to UC to increase the number of in-state undergraduates by 5,000.

The number will increase by 2,500 students for each of the following two years. (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)

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Dateline PhiliPPines

A

ADB cuts growth forecast for PH to 5.9% Healthy expansion expected until 2016

by Paolo

G. Montecillo Inquirer.net

ThE Asian Development Bank (ADB) sees more modest prospects for the Philippine economy this year following the slower-than-expected expansion in the third quarter.

Despite the deceleration, ADB still considered the country’s expected performance healthy, especially relative to the rest of the region.

“Driven largely by strong domestic demand, GDP growth in the Philippines picked up to 6 percent in the third quarter, bringing growth in the first three quarters to 5.6 percent,” ADB said in its Asian Development Outlook (ADO) supplement released this week.

“Private investment recorded robust expansion and household

spending was supported by higher employment, low inflation and remittance inflows from Filipino workers overseas,” the Manilabased multilateral lender said.

For all of 2015, the country is seen growing 5.9 percent, lower than the bank’s previous forecast of 6 percent. The new forecast falls short of the government’s goal of a growth of at least 7 percent. The growth forecast for 2016 was maintained at 6.3 percent The whole of Southeast Asia is seen growing by 4.4 percent this year and 4.9 percent in 2016.

In the third quarter, government expenditure accelerated rapidly, with public expenditure rising by 41.2 percent as budget execution was enhanced.

Net external demand weighed on the economy in the first three quarters, however, reflecting

brisk expansion in imports on strong domestic demand and only a modest rise in merchandise exports. The unexpectedly sharp drop in net external demand prompted a small downward revision in the growth forecast.

On the supply side, services and manufacturing were the key growth drivers. Services generated two-thirds of gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the first three quarters, spurred by transport, communications, retail trade, business process outsourcing and real estate.

Manufacturing generated nearly a fourth of the increase in GDP, supported by domestic demand. Agricultural output was nearly flat in the first three quarters as the El Niño-induced drought curbed farm production.

weakened,” Standard Chartered said in a note to clients on Thursday, Dec. 3.

“We see room for further weakening, especially if downside risks to growth and the current account materialize,” the bank said, adding the central bank might turn dovish—allowing for more monetary accommodation—if inflation does not pick up to 2 percent next year.

A weaker peso helps boost the income of dollar earners such as exporters, families that rely on migrant remittances and industries such as BPO and tourism. however, this makes foreign debt payments and imported goods such as crude oil more expensive.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) main goal is to protect consumers’ purchasing power by keeping prices in check.

The peso’s weakness has helped temper the effects of weaker exports. In peso terms, exports fell a smaller 2.7 percent year-on-year. The boost from the weaker currency was only marginal given the peso’s relative resilience. “Weak export growth may continue in 2016 if global growth remains modest,” Standard Chartered said.

Standard Chartered said it saw the Philippine economy maintaining its modest growth rate in 2016 due to the sustained weakness in exports and slower investments.

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS. Artificial trees on the median of Lawton Avenue in Pasay City are aglow with different colors, as central business districts in Metro Manila come up with colorful Christmas sceneries to make them stand out and attract people, especially shoppers, at night.

Inquirer.net photo by Kimberly De La Cruz

Bank sees peso weakening to 48.50 to $1 Binay: No VAT hike after tax reform passage

by Paolo

G. Montecillo

Inquirer.net

ThE peso may reach its weakest level in more than a decade next year as the dollar continues to surge, helping provide a boost to domestic demand, particularly from remittance beneficiaries and those in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.

At the end of this year, the local currency is forecast to close at 47.50 to $1. By next year, the currency could fall by another peso to hit the 48.50: $1 level, according to Standard Chartered bank.

“The peso has been resilient this year, while most of Asia, excluding Japan, currencies have

PAGE A2

Showdown on Poe...

have made voters doubt if she is qualified or not,” he said.

Poe’s supporters planned to hold a rally in front of the Comelec office in Iloilo today to protest the Comelec Second Division’s decision on Tuesday to disqualify her from next year’s elections on grounds that she did not meet the 10-year residency requirement for presidential candidates.

Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares, a senatorial candidate on Poe’s ticket, said the protest would be joined by groups and individuals supporting Poe’s fight for the rights of abandoned children.

No new issues raised In a brief interview, Carpio said David’s motion for reconsideration carried no new issues for deliberation.

“No new issues were raised.

We just affirmed our own votes,” said Carpio, the SET chair who held that Poe “failed to prove that she is a natural-born Filipino citizen.”

Carpio said the justices who voted against Poe would inhibit themselves from the case once it reached the Supreme Court.

“We cannot take part in the review of our own decision. So we will have to inhibit (ourselves), the three of us, when this goes

PAGE A4

to the Supreme Court, if this is brought to the Supreme Court,” Carpio said.

Not political decision Thursday’s ruling rejected David’s claim that the majority vote was a political decision.

“Indeed, aside from ascribing unfounded and baseless ill and improper motives to the senator-members who composed the majority and citing some opinion columns and tabloid reports that carry no evidentiary weight whatsoever, petitioner utterly failed to present any new issue or arguments that would warrant a reversal of Nov. 17, 2015 decision of the tribunal,” the SET said in its resolution.

On the minute resolution, Carpio wrote over his signature: “I reiterate my dissenting opinion.”

De Castro wrote the same over her signature.

Brion and Binay both wrote over their signatures: “I reiterate my dissenting vote.”

David’s lawyer Manuelito Luna said the petitioner would raise the case to the Supreme Court early next week.

In a statement, Luna expressed confidence that the senators who voted in Poe’s favor would be “shamed” when the Supreme Court ruled on the case.

14 killed, 21 injured...

Julie Paez, another employee of the health department, was attending the Christmas party in the conference room. She was supposed to receive an Employee of the Year award when the assailants stormed into the room, opening fire. Paez survived, but was shot once in the upper thigh and once in the abdomen. hours after the shooting on Wednesday, Inland Regional Center was an “active scene,” officials described. Survivors of the attack were hiding in offices, bathrooms, and closets, and employees in surrounding buildings were placed on lockdown before being safely evacuated by authorities.

Those impacted were texting their loved ones to let them know they were alive.

“It’s been a rough night. It hits home since I work here, and I have friends whose families are forever affected...I just can’t believe this happened,” a county social worker who preferred not to be named told the Asian Journal. “The sad thing is, this could have happened at any time.

We don’t have properly trained armed guards. People are worried about going to work.”

The county employee, who works for Children and Family Services of San Bernardino County, described his work meeting being cancelled before the shooting, and being on lockdown in a building nearby for several hours as police actively searched for the suspects. Sev-

eral courts in the area cancelled their hearings, while all buildings in close proximity of the incidents were on lock down.

“Children and Family Services are on emergency response duty; we can get called in and respond from home. Even in tragedy, we never completely shut down because we prevent further tragedy. I work with some amazing people--you have to have dedication and heart in CFS.” More than 1 shooting each day in the US in 2015 Tuesday’s incident in San Bernardino marks what RT reported as the “deadliest gun violence episode” in 2015, a year when 355 mass shootings have occurred.

“My heart is broken after this rampage that led to tragic loss of life, so many injuries, so much trauma and pain for the people of San Bernardino. I want to thank the medical personnel who are working as we speak to save lives, and all the brave, courageous law enforcement officers who rushed to the scene and later stopped these killers,” US Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) said.

Two databases that track mass shootings indicate that 462 people have died while 1,314 have been injured in such incidents this year. Many of these occurred on streets or in public settings, according to the databases.

The information comes from shootingtracker.com and gunviolencearchive.org, which are unofficial tallies that depend on

“We’re expecting it since the majority doesn’t know how to read the Constitution. On Monday or Tuesday, [we will file a petition for] certiorari in the Supreme Court, where they will be reversed and shamed for grave abuse of discretion,” he said.

Lerias doctrine he asserted David’s position that the ruling was in violation of the Supreme Court’s ruling in a 1991 case, in which the court warned lawmakers who served on electoral tribunals against making political decisions in electoral challenges brought before them.

“They (senators) violated the Lerias doctrine,” Luna said.

The doctrine stemmed from the Supreme Court’s ruling in a case that Rosette Lerias filed against the house of Representatives Electoral Tribunal and Roger Mercado, her rival for the Southern Leyte congressional seat at the time.

In that decision, the Supreme Court warned politicans against making political decisions on electoral protests, saying “they must resolve election controversies with judicial, not political, integrity.” (With reports from Marlon Ramos in Manila; and Nestor P. Burgos Jr. and Carla P. Gomez, Inquirer Visayas)

news accounts.

This week alone, five people were injured Sunday, Nov. 29, in a shooting in Kankakee, Ill.; on Wednesday before the San Bernardino incident, a shooting in Savannah, Ga. Left one woman dead and three men wounded, The Washington Post reported.

In November, shootings in East Texas, New Orleans, and Jacksonville, Fla. left 10 people dead and 17 injured.

A recent report by the Congressional Research Service found a slight rise in recent years in shootings where four or more people were killed: from 2009 to 2013, there were an average of 22.4 mass shootings per year, versus 20.2 shootings annually in the preceding five years. however, James Alan Fox, a criminologist at Northeastern University, told the NY Times that when analyzed in four-year intervals rather than five-year ones, the average number of yearly mass shootings declined from 2011 to 2014 compared to the preceding four-year period.

“It’s a matter of how you slice it,” Fox told the publication, who still touted the research service’s report.

San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis spoke Thursday of his “shock” at Wednesday’s event.

“The priority has been public safety. Our police department responded as effectively and safely as they could,” Davis said, according to TODAY. “We need to stay on a high level of alert but at the same time we can’t be paralyzed by these instances.”

ThERE would be no increase in value-added tax (VAT) when the income tax reform bill is passed into law during his administration, Vice President Jejomar Binay vowed on Wednesday, Dec. 2.

Binay is the standard-bearer of the United Nationalist Alliance in next year’s elections.

“We will ensure that VAT will remain as it is so our people could buy more from their income,” he said.

“The point of reducing the income tax would be meaningless if prices of our commodities would skyrocket because of increased VAT,” the Vice President added. he noted that 11 million Filipino families are poor.

Binay allayed fears that slashing income taxes would result in revenue loss for the government.

“Raising VAT is not the only way to compensate for the revenue loss. We already have a menu of options to compensate for the potential revenue losses from reducing tax rates,” he said.

These options, according to Binay, include sale of government assets and privatization of a number of government-owned and— controlled corporations (GOCCs); approval of revenue-generating measures, including fiscal incentives rationalization; fuel marking

to fight oil smuggling; and continued improvement in tax administration and collection efficiency.

Should he be elected President, he said, he would convene the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (Ledac) within the 100 days of his administration for swift passage of the tax reform bill.

“If given the opportunity to serve our fellow Filipinos, I will certify the tax reform bill as urgent after a thorough consultation with the Ledac,” Binay added.

“We are pushing for a comprehensive tax system reform that will gradually reduce the personal and corporate income tax rates in the Philippines to a level that is more consistent with our peers in Asean [Association of Southeast Asian Nations],” he said.

Binay cited advantages of passing a tax reform bill, saying it would result, for one, in improved tax collection and compliance.

“With the current taxation system, up to 85 percent of the total collection of individual income taxes is paid by the working class while only 15 percent comes from self-employed individuals and professionals,” he said.

“Tax reform would result in the improved competitiveness of Philippine corporations and their

workforce. It will also encourage more foreign investments, resulting in more jobs for our people, and more revenues for the government,” the Vice President added.

Binay said tax reform would also lead to increased consumer spending, allowing the government to recover some of the shortterm revenue loss.

The Vice President expressed his disappointment with some government officials and candidates for dismissing the tax reform bill as a “pogi bill,” designed only to attract votes from the middle class.

“It is unfortunate that this issue is being politicized. The tax reform measure will benefit individual households, society and the economy at large,” he said.

“Tax savings will help Filipino families afford a house, therefore [fewer] informal settlers; an education plan for their children, causing [fewer] drop-outs in schools; and a retirement plan that will have [fewer] senior citizens dependent on charity or the government,” the Vice President added.

“Our tax system must be seen as fair. Those with bigger paychecks ought to pay higher taxes than those who earn less, and inflationadjusted tax bracket is only just,” Binay said. (ManilaTimes.net)

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Features

Self-destructive

“THE people of the Philippines are not ready for my kind of style,” Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte warned in September when he turned down ardent calls by his supporters for him to run for the presidency.

In a sudden twist of fate, Duterte made his presidential bid official on Friday, Nov. 27, as he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for president as the standard-bearer of the Partido Demokratikong Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) party, with Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano of the Nacionalista Party as his running mate.

Duterte’s entry into the presidential race makes it a five-cornered fight where he will go against prominent names including Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay, Sen. Grace Poe, Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago and former Sen. Mar Roxas.

The documents he submitted to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) included priority programs he will implement if elected as the Philippine president. These included “streamlining bureaucracy by introducing digital systems and technologies” and “values formation in all elementary and high schools nationwide.” He also plans to reduce crime and eliminate drugs, make drug dealers and criminals face stiffer penalties and strengthen the criminal justice system. His national platform of government also focuses on fixing government administration, tax reforms, shifting to federalism and building disaster and resilient communities.

Despite throwing his hat late in the competition, Duterte received the highest score in a recent Pulse Asia survey conducted two weeks ago in Metro Manila. One in every three voters (34 percent) in Metro Manila said he or she would vote for Duterte if elections were held early this month. He was followed

by Poe with 26 percent; Binay, 22 percent; Roxas,

11 percent; and Santiago, 7 percent.

His supporters want him to turn the Philippines as safe and as thriving as Davao City. He may be rough around the edges, but his unconventional and vigilante-style of leadership has turned Davao City the fourth safest place in the world as ranked by Numbeo.com, and the country’s most child-friendly based on a government ranking.

In the last few days, Duterte’s presidential bid surged as he was hogging the majority of news headlines. He was a serious contender and if the recent survey will dictate the 2016 election results, he has the makings of the next Philippine president.

The presidency is almost his for the taking -- until he opened his mouth. During his proclamation as the official standard-bearer of PDP-Laban on Monday, Nov. 30, Duterte didn’t mince words as he told the audience of the kind of leader he is going to be.

He admitted to being a womanizer (he has two wives and two girlfriends), and is not afraid of killing criminals and drug dealers.

He had constant applause on the onset of his speech, but the cheers died down when he decided to take a swipe at the Roman Catholic Church and curse Pope Francis.

Duterte might have overlooked that the Philippines is still a predominantly Catholic country and the majority of the populace is not ready for his no-nonsense kind of leadership. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) criticized Duterte’s recent speech and cried foul over his curs-

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

ing of Pope Francis.

“Is this the leadership by example that Mayor Duterte excites in us? Is this the leadership by example that makes a public official deserving of the title ‘Honorable’?” CBCP President and Archbishop Socrates Villegas lamented.

Not one to back down on his detractors, Duterte responded to the Church’s leadership by saying to not to judge him because the institution is also not spotless.

“You priests, you bishops, you condemn me. And you suggest that I withdraw and I will withdraw, but then I will start to open my mouth. There are so many secrets that children are hiding. This religion is not so sacred,” Duterte retorted.

If he continues to charge like a raging bull, Duterte will force his supporters to think twice before checking his name on the ballot come election next year.

He needs to dial down on the crassitude and vulgarity, and realize that being the most powerful man in the country means taking a central role in every Filipino’s life. He will shape the system, make crucial decisions about the economy, and represent the hopes and interests of every Filipino in the world.

Duterte might have gotten plaudits for now, but factors that might take a toll on his standing are yet to come. After all, good politicians should know that holding a public office means embracing challenges and opportunities that the post offers them.

(AJPress)

Roxas and Duterte tied as Fil-Ams’ top favorites for president Will this change with the new Duterte controversies?

AFTER previous denials of his intent to join the race to Malacañang, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has finally declared his candidacy for the presidency His supporters who’ve been waiting for this moment rejoiced, saying “the eagle has landed” and pinning hopes that Duterte is the leader the country needs during this page in Philippine history.

Politicians, businessmen, and ordinary Filipinos have jumped ship from the camps of Roxas, Binay, Poe and Santiago to declare their all-out support for the Duterte campaign. They contend that Duterte is the candidate who can bring about real change. Unlike past presidents and his current political rival, they admire Duterte for being a straight talker and a strong leader who has been instrumental to Davao City’s prog-

ress, peace and order.

Even some Fil-Ams have been The Fil-Am energized by Duterte’s bid for the presidency. In The Filipino Chan- Perspective nel’s daily newscast Balitang America, an online poll revealed that Duterte is now tied with Mar Roxas, as the top two candidates Gel SantoS-reloS kababayans in America would vote for if the elections were held today, surpassing Binay, Poe and Santiago.

But would the dynamics change with the latest controversy about Duterte, whom his critics say has gone too far with his language and style, to the point of using the “P.I.” curse on Pope Francis?

As ABS-CBN News reported, Duterte came under fire for cursing at Pope Francis after he allegedly

got caught in a traffic jam during the Catholic leader’s visit in the Philippines in January. Duterte himself said a friend told him that the traffic jam was caused by the Pope’s arrival, ”Gusto kong tawagan, ‘Pope p******.”

Duterte reportedly later denied cursing Pope Francis. However, he maintained that he would still not invite the Pope Francis back to the country if he becomes president.

The blunt Davao City mayor was also criticized for flaunting that he has two wives and two mistresses, contending that his possible presidency won’t change that. Worse, he would even give details about his sexcapades with women, offend-

ing those who say he sounds like he just sees and treats women as objects.

Others have expressed concern over his “dictatorial tendencies” in the way he implements changes, without respect and regard to due process and the rule of law.

Amid these criticisms Duterte said, “I don’t crave for ratings, I do not need praises, I will not die if I don’t become the president. If you don’t like my character, the solution is, do not vote for me.”

Would you vote for Duterte? *** 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

How the average Pinoys regard the Spratlys conflict

Street Talk GreG B. MacaBenta PRESIDENT Benigno S. Aquino III has been excoriated for his handling of the festering conflict with China over the Spratlys. From losing trading revenues to being pulverized in a shooting war, Aquino’s “belligerence” has been severely criticized, but the pundits have not offered any constructive and realistic suggestions on how we should handle the situation, aside from the equivalent of the late Senator and Foreign Secretary Raul Manglapus’ classic advice: “If rape is inevitable, lie back and enjoy it” (or words to effect).

Meanwhile, the United States has begun to turn on the pressure on China over the broader issue of unhampered access to the strategic maritime lanes comprised by the South China Sea. From being simply an amicus curiae, calling for diplomacy and the rule of international law in resolving the conflict, the US has begun to assert its position as a concerned party with economic, military and political interests at stake.

In his speech at the recently concluded ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, President Barack Obama was no longer subtle in his drubbing of China, in the presence of high-level Chinese delegates: “I commend ASEAN for working to ensure that all nations uphold interna-

tional law and norms, including the peaceful resolution of disputes, freedom of navigation, and freedom of overflight. And I applaud ASEAN for working to create a code of conduct for the South China Sea. For the sake of regional stability, claimants should halt reclamation, new construction, and militarization of disputed areas.”

The response of China’s Deputy Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin was like that of a dirty old man who had been told to keep his hands off a young girl: “One should never link the military facilities with efforts to militarize the South China Sea,” Liu said. “This is a false argument. It is a consistent Chinese position to firmly oppose the militarization of the South China Sea.” To soft-pedal the loss of face that China had to bear at the summit, a mere deputy foreign minister was designated to express the protest, instead of the head of the Chinese delegation, Premier Li Keqiang.

President Aquino, obviously emboldened by the increasingly vocal US position on the issue, had his own blunt words to say: “It is regrettable that China continues to massively reclaim and build structures in the sea known by many names, in total disregard of international law as well as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.” For sure, the alarmists cannot be blamed for pointing out that, what started as an irritant

between the Philippines and China—as well as between China and several other countries ringing the South China Sea— is fast becoming a dangerous game of chicken between two economic and military super powers. Even international geopolitical analysts are saying as much.

Unfortunately, in an election season, the possibility of armed conflict that could involve the Philippines appears to have a low priority in the minds of the Filipino people. We appear to be more interested in the virtual teleseries involving Sen. Grace Poe, Davao Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Vice-President Jejomar Binay and Liberal Party presidential standard bearer Mar Roxas, with Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago being mentioned as an afterthought.

However, the average Pinoy who has some familiarity with the Spratlys controversy has some down-to-earth views on it, as I found out on my last trip to Manila. I broached the subject to the tricycle drivers plying our neighborhood in Parañaque.

Here are their views: 1. How should the Philippines handle the Spratlys conflict? Napasubo na tayo, kaya panindigan na natin. Pero kahit hindi tayo pumalag, talagang balak ng Tsina na kunin ang South China Sea dahil sa angking yaman nito. Kung baga, matagal nang balak gahasain ang anak mong dalaga. Gagawin at gagwin iyon. (The die is cast, so we have to hold our ground. But even if we did not

protest, China really intended to control the South China Sea due to its natural resources. It’s like, there has always been the intention to rape your daughter. It would have happened, anyway.)

2. Couldn’t the Philippines have arranged to share the resources of the Spratlys with China? Kung puede sana, nuon pa, sinabi sana natin na pagsaluhan na lang ang yaman ng dagat, pero siyempre, lamang din ang Tsina dahil higante. (If it were possible, back then, we could have offered to share the wealth of the sea, but of course China would have had an advantage, being a giant).

Walang iniwan iyan sa hatian ng mga magsasaka at ng mga may-ari ng isang hacienda. Siyempre, lamang ang haciendero. (It’s no different from the sharing arrangement between the farmers and the owners of a hacienda. Naturally, the hacienderos get the bigger share).

3. What will happen next?

Will a favorable decision of the world court help the Philippines? Iyang nakuha na ng Tsina, hindi na natin mababawi, pero dapat wala nang mabawas sa teritoryo natin. Kaya tama lang na manindigan tayo. Sa bagay na iyan, malaking tulong ang suporta ng America at makakatulong ang pabor na desisyon ng world court. (What China has taken, we cannot get back, but we should not lose any more territory, which is why we should stand our ground. In that regard, the support of America

is a big help and so will a favorable decision of the world court.).

4. Will our trade with China suffer because of the conflict? Ang mga intsik ay negosyante. Sa ngayon, mas malaki ang binibili natin sa Tsina kaysa binebenta natin sa kanila.

Siyempre tuloy pa rin ang pagbebenta sa atin, kahit may alitan. Negosyo lang iyan. (The Chinese are businessmen. As of now, we are buying more from them than what we are selling to them, that’s why they will continue to sell to us in spite of the conflict. It’s just business) Pero dapat siguro gumawa tayo ng sariling pagkakakitaan, para hindi tayo masyadong nakasandal sa ibang bayan – tulad ng pagpapalago ng agriulutura, turismo at teknolohiya. (But we should do something about generating earnings from other sources so that we don’t depend too much on other countries - such as agriculture, tourism and technology) 5. Do we really need the support of the US in dealing with China? Bakit, kaya ba nating suwagin nang mag-isa ang Tsina?

Kung hindi ba nakikialam ang America, hindi ba lalo tayong inaapi? (Why, can we take on China by ourselves? If America were not involved, wouldn’t we be bullied even more?)

6. Do you think the US and China will go to war over the South China Sea? Girian lang iyan, at maaaring magkabarilan ng kaunti, pero hindi nila palalakihin iyan. Talo silang pareho at ayaw nilang mang-

yari iyan. Parang Russia at America nuong Cold War. (It’s just posturing and maybe some shooting, but they will not let it become a big conflict. They will both lose and they don’t want that that happen. Just like Russia and America during the Cold War).

7. Do you think the US will defend the Philippines in an armed conflict with China? Sea? Huwag nating kakalimutan na ang pakikialam ng America ay laging para sa sariling kapakanan.

Kung ang kapakanan ng America ay apektado sa labanan ng Pilipinas at Tsina, makikialam ang America. (Remember that American involvement will always be in its own interests. If its interests will be affected by a conflict between the Philippines and China, America will get involved.)

8. Do you think the Philippines should remain neutral? Tayo na nga ang inaapi, papaano tayo hindi mapapadawit sa alitan? (We are the ones being bullied, how can we avoid being involved in the conflict?)

9. Is it too late to repair relations between the Philippines and China? Kahit ba ginahasa ang anak mong dalaga, kung pakakasalan, puedeng magareglo. (Even if your daughter is raped, if there is an offer of marriage, an amicable settlement is always possible.)

Sometimes, it helps to listen to the neighborhood tricycle driver and the average Pinoys.

They may be wiser than we give them credit for. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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Dateline PhiliPPines

Jinggoy Estrada confident of bail from plunder like in 2003

by Marc Jayson

cayabyab

Inquirer.net

Sen. Jinggoy estrada on Thursday, Dec. 3 said he was confident he would be granted bail from his plunder suit over the pork barrel scam, the same way he was cleared of the charges as a coaccused of his father over alleged illegal gambling funds.

In an interview after his bail hearing at the Sandiganbayan on Thursday, the senator expressed confidence that the decision of the fifth division hearing his case would be a “repeat” of the antigraft court’s order granting him bail in the plunder case of deposed President Joseph estrada over “jueteng” money. noting that he was granted bail in the 2001 plunder case because he was not a flight risk, the younger estrada said he should be allowed the same privilege now because he had affirmed before the court that as an incumbent senator, he would not flee his charges.

The father and son tandem was jailed in 2001 for the plunder charges, which propelled the aborted impeachment trial of former President estrada.

In 2001, the younger estrada, then San Juan mayor, was charged with conspiring with his father “in amassing and acquiring ill-gotten wealth through illegal gambling or any

Sen. Jinggoy Estrada

or a combination or a series of overt or criminal acts or similar schemes or means.”

In March 2003, two years after their detention, the former mayor was allowed bail as the Sandiganbayan found that he probably collected jueteng protection money only for his “own selfish needs” and not in “conspiracy” with his father.

After more than a year of hearing, the Sandiganbayan fifth division on Thursday concluded the oral summation of evidence in the senator’s bail hearing, this

time over the pork barrel scam. he had been detained since June 2014 and seeking bail after surrendering to the police.

The court ordered both parties to submit memoranda summarizing the testimony and evidence within 10 days before submitting the plea for resolution.

Senator estrada hoped he would be granted bail in time for Christmas, claiming the prosecution failed to prove he received P183 million in kickbacks from accused scam mastermind Janet Lim-napoles. he is accused of receiving P183 million in kickbacks from his Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF) through alleged ghost projects using the bogus foundations of napoles.

The senator is detained at the Philippine national Police Custodial Center with colleague Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr., who is facing the same charges for allegedly accumulating P242 million in kickbacks from napoles.

Revilla’s bail plea was denied by the Sandiganbayan in December 2014, just months after he surrendered in June 2014.

Meanwhile, the 91-year-old Sen. Juan Ponce enrile, who is accused of receiving P172 million kickbacks, has been granted bail by the Supreme Court based on humanitarian grounds and his political stature.

Prime suspect in Enzo Pastor slay, Sandy De Guzman, arrested in Cavite by aie

balagtas see & nancy carvaJal Inquirer.net

The national Bureau of Investigation (nBI) arrested Thursday evening, Dec. 3 businessman Domingo “Sandy” de Guzman, alleged mastermind in the killing of car racer enzo Pastor. nBI-national Capital Region arrested de Guzman in Barangay Bukas, Dasmariñas, Cavite, at around 7 p.m. nBI-nCR Chief Max Salvador said they acted on a tip given to them last week. he said they conducted a surveillance for a week.

Salvador said De Guzman

De Guzman has been ordered arrested by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court in August this year after he was charged with the murder of Pastor.

Pastor was shot dead in Quezon City in 2014. De Guzman and Pastor’s wife Dahlia Guerrero-Pastor, his co-accused, allegedly hired a gunman to kill the car racer.

Salvador said they will present De Guzman before the Quezon City Court to inform them that the warrant has been served. De Guzman will be detained at the nBI. Sandy De Guzman nBI Assistant Regional Dihas been staying at a motel us- rector Rommel Vallejo said the ing different aliases including suspect is now at the nBI for women’s names. processing.

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • DEcEmbER 4-10, 2015

A

WINNING TRADITION. The Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws celebrate after winning their 20th The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) men’s basketball championship following a thrilling 67-62 win over the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Growling Tigers in Game 3 of the Finals on Wednesday, Dec. 2 at Mall of Asia Arena.

Inquirer.net photo by Tristan Tamayo

Where to jail Pemberton?

by JoMar

canlas ManilaTimes.net

The Olongapo Regional Trial Court (RTC) has ordered the Philippine and the United States governments to submit a note identifying a permanent jail where a convicted US Marine, Joseph Scott Pemberton, will serve his prison sentence.

According to a two-page order of Judge Roline Ginez-Jabalde, the Philippine Commission on Visiting Forces (PCVF) through its executive director, retired general eduardo Oban Jr., was directed to submit a memorandum of agreement (MOA) within five days.

The Olongapo City RTC on Tuesday convicted Pemberton of homicide for killing Jennifer Laude, a transgender, in a motel in October 2014 after joint US-Philippine military exercises near the city.

Jabalde sentenced Pemberton to six to 12 years in jail–after the charge was reduced from murder, which carries a heavier penalty– citing mitigating circumstances, including Laude not revealing that she was a transgender.

The court heard that Pemberton and Laude agreed to have sex after meeting in a bar, but that the drunken US Marine turned violent when he discovered that Laude still had male genitals.

It ordered Pemberton’s incarceration at the national penitentiary– the new Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City (Metro Manila)–but the convict was taken to a temporary detention facility at the Philippine

military’s custodial center in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City pending a final decision on where he would serve his sentence.

“In view thereof, the executive Director of PCVF is hereby ordered to submit to this court within five days from today the memorandum of agreement entered into by the above-mentioned agencies, and the written agreement between duly authorized representatives of the United States and the Republic of the Philippines on the confinement or detention of accused Pemberton after conviction,” the court ruled.

“Pending the submission of the MOA and written agreement between duly authorized representatives of the United States of America and the Republic of the Philippines, accused [Lance] Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton is temporarily confined or detained [at the ] AFP Custodial Center at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, under the supervision of the Bureau of Corrections. Otherwise , the commitment order dated December 01, 2015 shall be enforced,” it said.

The RTC ruled that the convict be immediately brought to the national penitentiary.

Before the promulgation of the case, the Supreme Court denied a petition of the Laude family to order the transfer of Pemberton to a regular jail.

The US insists that its Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the Philippines provides that Ameri-

can personnel accused of crimes will remain under US custody until completion of all judicial proceedings.

Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director Ricardo Rainier Cruz 3rd also on Wednesday said there is no chance that Pemberton will be detained at the national penitentiary.

Cruz added that he had expected that Pemberton will not be brought to the nBP despite a court order. he said the government must follow the VFA notwithstanding the public clamor that the 20-yearold American should be held with ordinary inmates.

“I want to make this clear. Pemberton is covered by the provisions of the Visiting Forces Agreement, stating that he shall be detained at the mutually-agreed prison facility. And the agreed prison facility was the nBP station facility in Camp Aguinaldo,” the BuCor chief added. he explained that there is an existing MOA between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and BuCor to use a detention cell in Camp Aguinaldo as the extension facility of nBP. Cruz assured that Pemberton would not get special treatment from the 18 BuCor personnel, who will watch over the US Marine.

The only problem now, he said, is how they will feed Pemberton as the national penitentiary only has a daily food budget allocation of 50 pesos per prisoner.

A december 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK ANd NeW JerSeY ASIAN JOUrNAL

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december 4-10, 2015

Marietta Geraldino (2013 awardee)

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With then New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and NYC Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott during the awarding ceremony at the Gracie Mansion in 2013.

raMil Buenaventura (2014 awardee)

2014 Big Apple Award winner Ramil Buenaventura of Renaissance Charter School in Jackson Heights, Queens.

Photo by Jon Reznick

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An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY d Ec E m b E R 4 , 20 1 5

Filipino Teachers Among Big Apple Awardees, Nominations for Next Year’s Awards Sought

by MoMar G. Visaya/AJPress New York City Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña has announced the fourth annual Big Apple Awards: Recognizing Teacher excellence in New York City, overseen by the Department of education in partnership with the Fund for Public Schools. The Big Apple Awards celebrate educators across the City and honor teachers who inspire students, model great teaching, and enrich their school communities.

Two Filipino teachers have won the award – Marietta Timblaco Geraldino won in the inaugural year (2013) and Ramil Buenaventura won the following year. Geraldino teaches 10th and 11th grade Geometry at Frederick Douglass Academy II while Buenaventura teaches 7th and 8th Grade Math atRenaissance Charter School.

Geraldino and Buenaventura were among the thousands of nominees for the award. A stringent screening process followed as they were winnowed into a smaller number, where the year’s twelve awardees were eventually picked.

According to the NYC Department of education site, Geraldino was cited for her efforts in making geometry more understandable to her 10thand 11th grade students. How did she do it? She started by relating Lincoln Center Institutes’ Striking Sounds relate to Geometry and designed an entire unit to use this music to teach graphing based on the waves of sounds. Marietta provides students with the opportunity and expectation that they will master content in order to learn about the world around them and develop the confidence necessary to succeed in life.

As explained by her principal, “[Marietta] is able to deconstruct the most complex mathematical concepts and make them palpable to even the most resistant students.”

Additionally, during her 24 years of teaching, nine within the NYCDOe, she has constantly searched for ways to grow as an educator and seeks out professional development opportunities to improve her practice.

Buenaventura on the other hand, got the nod of the awardgiving body by helping his students learn mathematics with ease.

He moved to New York after 13 years as a school teacher and administrator in the Philippines.

with ten years under his belt working here, his classroom provides exceptional examples of integrating mathematical practices and common core standards into math lessons. Ramil uses projectbased learning, “pi” challenges, and student-created videos to help his class achieve.

All of his efforts, Ramil says, are worth it for the success he sees in his students: “This is the essence of why I am a teacher. As I see these gains and successes, they challenge me to gain more so I can give more.”

The awardees went on to their fellowship year, where they had meetings with Chancellor Farina, participated on the Chancellors Teacher Advisory Group, and engaged in monthly workshops.

In his reflection about the fellowship and the wards in general, Buenaventura talked about his experience as an immigrant teacher in America.

“Being an international teacher uprooted from the Philippines and brought to work in NYCDOe in 2003, I felt inadequate with my communication skills as my “Filipino” english has a distinct accent and difference with my American colleagues. Also, since english is my second language, the process from thinking to verbalizing the words takes a pause in my brain, as I have to search and decide for the correct vocabulary to use and the proper way to say it. But as the years went by, I slowly learned through my experiences as I transformed into a more confident communicator especially after the Big Apple Fellows experience,” he said.

“Before the Big Apple Awards, I could say I was a fairly good communicator but after the fellowship year, I confidently say that I’m a lot better and I am still working to be the best communicator that I could be,” he added.

Buenaventura then went on to say that this was made possible by the professional development that the fellows got from Jezra Kaye who shared her expertise on public speaking.

“Her simple and direct tips were easily learned and used. You leave the session with confidence knowing that you could be the most effective speaker that you could be. Yes, the “Rambo” communicator emerged in me,” Buenaventura said.

It was evident when he was

Marietta Geraldino with NYU Langone nurse Menchu de Luna who was invited by President Barack Obama to join his State of the Union address in 2013 for helping transport 20 high-risk babies to various intensive care units around the city when the hospital was flooded due to hurricane Sandy.

invited to be an inspirational speaker to a group of about 200 Filipino-American school teachers where he spoke about his experience as a Big Apple Awardee.

In that speech, Buenaventura recalled the difficulties faced by immigrant teachers, some of whom are working thousands of miles away from their own families. His humor was also evident as he related the experience of using what he was accustomed to as a Filipino, but were not completely understood by his American students – from the usage of pentel pen instead of marker, corridor instead of hallway, coupon bond instead of white paper.

“The award was both a blessing and a responsibility,” Geraldino told the Asian Journal as she reminisced about the award she received a couple of years ago. “I got to meet with fellow awardees and learn from them best teaching practices across discipline and grade level. I was able to bring the voice of fellow teachers on key DOe and NYSeD initiatives to the Chancellor and key leadership during our monthly sessions.”

She also looked at it as a real opportunity to inspire and have an impact on her school community and teacher organizations.

“I also think that I made our country proud for being the first Filipino to receive such an award and in New York City new less.

My winning became a headline in major Philippine newspapers and TV for weeks. Congressman winston T. Castelo introduced to the 16th Congress of the House of Representatives Resolution No. 00010 “Congratulating and commending” me for the award,” she said.

As far as the awards and the adulation are concerned, Geraldino

said that she uses those as a reminder for her to work harder.

“I consider it a responsibility to live up to the award standards, to continue improving my craft, and to continue inspiring and making a spark in the lives of my students and the teaching profession. As a bonus, to be recognized for doing what you love to do and what you do best is inspiring,” she added.

Just how tough is it to be selected for the award? There are 75,000 teachers under the Department of education in New York City, teaching more than one million students across the five boroughs. After thousands of nominations, only five hundred were requested to submit documentations of their work. That number is drastically reduced to about a hundred who all underwent interviews where only 40 moved on to the finals where they went through classroom teaching observations.

Both Buenaventura and Geraldino have also been honored by their Filipino-American colleagues through the different organizations of teachers – Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA), Association of Filipino Teachers in eastern America (AFTeA), and United Federation of Fil-Am educators (UNIFFIeD).

UNIFFIeD founder and retired teacher Lumen Castaneda is proud of the achievements and accolades her colleagues have received.

“It is an honor for Filipinos to have kababayans recognized by the city. Filipino teachers are really exemplary in the classroom and outside and I am very hapy for them. I wish more teachers will be included,” Castaneda said.

Call for Nominations An open, citywide call for

Ms. Geraldino with Christine Sienicki of the world-famous Rockettes

Ms. Geraldino with then Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron, UNIFFIED founder Lumen Castaneda and New York district judge Lorna Schofield. Photos courtesy of Lumen Castaneda

nominations will continue through January 18, 2016 for the next batch of awardees, giving students and families more time to nominate exceptional educators.

Students, families, educators, and community members can nominate a standout teacher by visiting the Big Apple Awards website. Nominees must be current, full-time public school teachers who demonstrate exceptional success in impacting student learning, in their instructional practices, and in their professional contributions to their school community. This year, the DOe is especially interested in recognizing teachers in critical grades and subjects including grades 2, 7 and 10, as well as teachers of special education and english Language Learners.

“The Big Apple Awards recognize the hard-working and passionate teachers that inspire students and strengthen communities. I encourage all of our students, families, and educators to nominate teachers who are making an impact in their schools and celebrate them with this welldeserved recognition,” said Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña.

Following the open nomination period, a select group of up to 1,000

Mathematics teacher Ramil Buenaventura wore his barong tagalog at the awarding of the Big Apple Awards last year (left). Other photo shows Mr. Buenaventura with community leader Lumen Castaneda during an event in New York.

Megastars, Fire Beneath, Golden stories at Asia Society THe gold rush at Asia Society continues! Asia Society was graced by megastars Piolo Pascual and Charo Santos Concio. The flame continues to burn for Almira Astudillo Gilles’ novel, The Fire Beneath. Golden stories of Fil-Ams and Fil-Am Holiday songs are related and performed on stage. It’s a wonderful life—at Asia Society!

Philippine film star Piolo Pascual and ABS CBN President and CeO Charo Santos Concio visited Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms at Asia Society in New York on Friday, Nov. 20.

Co-Curator Nina Capistrano Baker provided a guided tour of the 120 piece collection of Pre-Hispanic gold on loan from the Ayala Museum in Manila. They were welcomed

by Tom Nagorski, executive Vice President of Asia Society, and members of the Benefit Committee headed by edwin Josue.

Pascual was featured in a special Q&A with local Filipino American press and fans after which there was Fan Meet and Greet allowing fans the opportunity to pose for photos with Pascual. Questions to Pascual ranged from his favorite roles (all roles are equally important so all roles he has played is valued) to his acting method (he strictly follows the director’s instructions) to gender equality in television and film (stories about Filipino women are prevalent allowing many opportunities for women in the industry) to his plans for the future (he looks forward to continued work

Piolo Pascual admiring the Pre-Hispanic gold of the Philippine Gold Exhibition at Asia Society New York on loan from the Ayala Museum Manila.

Photo by Ellen Wallop

nominees will be invited to complete a comprehensive application for the Big Apple Awards. The DOe will identify up to 250 educators for district-level selection, including an interview and a classroom visit.

The process will culminate with a celebration in June honoring up to 15 outstanding educators selected for a Big Apple Award. The recipients will represent teachers citywide during the 2016-17 school year as Big Apple Fellows and members of the Chancellor’s Advisory Group, while continuing to educate and inspire students in the classroom.

“The Big Apple Awards have changed my life. As a Big Apple Award winner, I am being taught how to be a leader, how to build consensus through a common lens, how to speak publicly with impact, and how to work with colleagues to effect greater change with our students,” saidDenise Clark, a 201516 Big Apple Fellow from Mott Hall Science and Technology Academy.

Ms. Clark is a founding teacher at Mott Hall Science and Technology Academy who, in addition to teaching math, serves as an 8thgrade team leader and organizes Saturday tutoring for students.

Last year, there were more than 4,700 nominations for the Big Apple Awards, more than double the number of nominations in the first year of the Awards. Sixty-five percent of nominations came from students and families. Last year’s Award recipients come from across the City and represent a diversity of subject areas, experience, and backgrounds.

This year’s Big Apple Awards represent another opportunity to celebrate the diverse range of great teachers who are setting the foundation for the next generation of New York City, and engage in a citywide dialogue about what excellent teaching looks like.

New York Fil-Am community marks Bonifacio Day with special screening of ‘Bonifacio, Ang Unang Pangulo’ New YORK—The FilipinoAmerican community in New York marked the 152nd birth anniversary of Gat Andres Bonifacio with a special screening of “Bonifacio, Ang Unang Pangulo” on Monday, Nov. 30 at the

Philippine Center.

Close to a hundred film and history aficionados and young Fil-ams flocked to the Center’s Kalayaan Hall for the free screening of the film, which was Continued on Page 6

Piolo Pascual and Charo Santos Concio pose with the Philippine Gold Benefit Committee at Asia Society NY. (L-R) Rina Concio Quinto, Ling Raymundo, Benefit Committee Members Marilyn Abalos and Edwin Josue, Charo Santos Concio, Piolo Pascual, Benefit Committee Members Dr. Angie Cruz and Jerry Sibal.

with “Tita Charo” and is willing and able as long as he is needed).

Many fans waited hours earlier to meet and greet Pascual at Asia Society. There were a great number female fans of many ages and a diverse background who were quite excited and thrilled to take many photos with Piolo Pascaul.

One Filipina stated that no matter what kind of film, role or artistry and performance Piolo Pascual gave – it was his extreme good looks that does it for her.

Accompanying Pascual was Charo Santos-Concio, ABS-CBN President and Chief executive Officer, who served as Gala Chair for the 43rd International emmy Awards in New York City on

November 23rd. She presided over this year’s Gala wherein the International Academy will recognize excellence in television.

Piolo Pascual was a presenter at the International emmy Awards. while introducing Pascual, Santos Concio modestly expressed appreciation for the great honor to chair the Gala of the International emmy Awards. There being only three other Asians to chair these awards, it was especially pleasing to bring the Philippines to the forefront as Gala Chair she said. She also cited that a number of outstanding films from the Philippines have been selected to be presented at various international film festivals -- a In his opening remarks, Consul General Mario L. de Leon Jr. paid tribute to Bonifacio as “Father Continued on Page 7 of the Philippine Revolution and the Filipino Nation.”

Immigration Corner

An Asian Journal Magazine

No fraud waiver needed, despite fraud

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

she made a misrepresentation, the “true facts” would not have rendered her inadmissible. In ORDINARILY, when a person other words, even if a person commits fraud or makes a makes a misrepresentation, misrepresentation in connection the misrepresentation must with applying for an immigration be material, meaning the benefit, the person is required person would be ineligible to file a fraud waiver (Form I for the immigration benefit – 601). However, in some cases, based on the “true facts,” or even when a person does make a misrepresentation, a fraud waiver the misrepresentation tends to “shut off a line of inquiry” which may not necessarily be required. would be relevant to the person’s In one of our recent cases, eligibility. our client was charged with The AAO concluded fraud but, on appeal, the the misrepresentation was Administrative Appeals Office not material, because “the (AAO) in Washington DC agreed applicant would not have been with us that no fraud waiver inadmissible, removable or should be required because the alleged misrepresentation was not ineligible on the true facts”.

Moreover, “her misrepresentation “material.” did not cut off a line of inquiry, In many cases, people which would have been relevant automatically accept USCIS’s to her eligibility and which determination that they committed fraud, and that a fraud might well have resulted in a proper determination that waiver is required. But that is not she was inadmissible.” In always the case. In this particular other words, even though she case, the client was petitioned by made a misrepresentation, her US citizen husband, but the USCIS Field Office Director denied she was still eligible for her immigration benefit, whether that her fraud waiver, concluding she misrepresentation was true or had made a misrepresentation, not, because it was not material. and her husband (her “qualifying Accordingly, the AAO agreed relative”) would not suffer that her waiver application was “extreme hardship” if she were unnecessary and she was eligible not allowed to remain in the for a green card without any fraud US. We appealed the denial to waiver being required. the AAO, arguing that while her I know many people misrepresentation was intentional, are accused of making a it was harmless and not material.

The AAO agreed, noting that while misrepresentation, and are

required to submit a fraud waiver.

Certainly, if the misrepresentation was “material”, then a fraud waiver would be necessary.

However, as this case points out, perhaps the misrepresentation was not material, and therefore would not constitute fraud or misrepresentation, requiring a fraud waiver. (Please note that this “success story” does not mean your case is guaranteed or you will have a similar outcome.)

Each case to be analyzed on caseby-case basis.

If you are accused of committing fraud or misrepresentation, you should seek the advice of an immigration attorney, who can evaluate your situation, including whether or not your misrepresentation was material according to the legal definition, such that a fraud waiver should not be even be required. Don’t just blindly accept USCIS’s finding, if it is not in accordance with the legal requirements or definitions.

Instead, you should fight!

Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bars 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

3

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY d Ec E m b E R 4 , 20 1 5

CREWMAN WENT HOME TO MANILA ON PROVISIONAL WAIVER AND CAME BACK TO THE US 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 was denied, because he was not eligible. With the approved Provisional Waiver, Jerome returned to the Philippines for visa processing at the US Embassy in Manila. His wife and children wondered and prayed if Jerome could make it back to the US. Watch to see the outcome of this Provisional Waiver case on an encore episode of ‘Citizen Pinoy’—on Sunday, December 6 at 6:15pm (PST) on TFC.

and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. ***

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)

FDA takes several actions involving genetically engineered plants and animals for food BASED on sound science and a comprehensive review, the US Food and Drug Administration is taking several important steps regarding food from genetically engineered (GE) plants and animals, including the first approval for a genetically engineered animal intended for food, AquAdvantage Salmon.

The agency is also issuing two guidances for manufacturers who wish to voluntarily label their products as containing ingredients from GE or non-GE sources: a draft guidance on labeling foods derived from Atlantic salmon, and

a final guidance on foods derived from GE plants.

FDA approves application for AquAdvantage Salmon The FDA has approved AquaBounty Technologies’ application for AquAdvantage Salmon, an Atlantic salmon that reaches market size more quickly than non-GE farm-raised Atlantic salmon. The FDA regulates GE animals under the new animal drug provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, because the recombinant DNA (rDNA) construct introduced into the animal meets the definition

of a drug. In this case, the rDNA construct introduces a trait that makes the AquAdvantage Salmon grow faster.

“The FDA has thoroughly analyzed and evaluated the data and information submitted

by AquaBounty Technologies regarding AquAdvantage Salmon and determined that they have met the regulatory requirements for approval, including that food from the fish is safe to eat,” said Bernadette Dunham, DVM, PhD, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine.

Based on a comprehensive

analysis of the scientific evidence, the FDA determined that AquAdvantage Salmon meets the statutory requirements for safety and effectiveness under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Among the requirements the sponsor had to meet are that food from the fish is safe to eat; the rDNA construct (the piece of DNA that makes the salmon grow faster) is safe for the fish itself; and the AquAdvantage Salmon meets the sponsor’s claim about faster growth. In addition, the FDA determined that food

from AquAdvantage Salmon is as safe to eat and as nutritious as food from other non-GE Atlantic salmon and that there are no biologically relevant differences in the nutritional profile of AquAdvantage Salmon compared to that of other farm-raised Atlantic salmon.

The AquAdvantage Salmon may be raised only in land-based, contained hatchery tanks in two specific facilities in Canada and Panama. The approval does not allow AquAdvantage Salmon to be bred or raised in the United States. In fact, under this approval,

no other facilities or locations, in the United States or elsewhere, are authorized for breeding or raising AquAdvantage Salmon that are intended for marketing as food to US consumers. As required by the National Environmental Policy Act, the FDA completed an environmental assessment to determine whether approval of the application would result in significant effects on the quality of the human environment in the United States. The FDA has determined that the approval of the AquAdvantage Salmon Continued on Page 5

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY D Ec E m b E R 4 , 20 1 5

Erwan Heussaff spreads the word on healthy living around the world

by AlixAndrA

CAole VilA

Philstar.com

MANILA—Proving that there is so much more to him than being the boyfriend of actress Anne Curtis, Erwan Heussaff has recently been appointed as the brand ambassador of cable channel TLC Southeast Asia.

“When they approached me, it was kind of a validation that what I was doing had that international accent that people all over the world could kind of relate to,” the food blogger and restaurateur said in an email interview with Philstar.com recently.

There’s no better poster boy for successful weight loss than the owner of the massively popular blog, “The Fat Kid Inside.” Erwan is known for losing almost 100 pounds after deciding to live the healthy lifestyle. Now, aside from being the owner of several restaurants in the Metro Manila,

Erwan Heussaff

he is also an in-demand product endorser and writer.

According to Erwan, it made him really happy because he has been working hard to spread the word not only in the Philippines but around Asia, US and Europe as well.

“It was a dream come true and a step in the right direction in terms of who I want to work with and who I want to partner with,”“ Erwan said.

Last November 21, Erwan joined TLC host Janet Hsieh and Tom and Henry Herbert from TLC’s The Fabulous Baker Brothers at the first ever TLC Festival in the Philippines to demonstrate some of his easy-to-do recipes.

In Erwan’s own words, the festival is “just a great way to have a nice day out and interact with people that you enjoy and the people you like seeing on TV.” Aside from attending the festival, he also shared his current project tagged as “Food Fix with Erwan Heussaff” where he appeared in four videos showing himcook his favorite dishes in easy steps.

Erwan also said he is excited about the possibilities and the opportunities that’ll present themselves from the experience.

Rachel Ann Go bags theater award anew

by ChristinA

AlpAd

ManilaTimes.net

AFTER winning Broadway World UK’s “Best Featured Actress” award for her first international theater exposure as Gigi in “Miss Saigon” 2014 revival, Rachel Ann Go has bagged another award from the same theater site for the “Best Performance in a Long-Running West End Show (Female)” as Fantine in “Les Miserables.”

Rachel Ann’s home studio in the Philippines, GMA Network first reported the happy news Thursday night on their news website.

Broadway World UK, on the other hand, is apparently touted as the world’s biggest theater website to cover and review productions from around the globe, most especially from the renowned stages of New York’s Broadway and London’s West End.

Rachel Ann Go poses as Fantine for her Instagram followers.

In her Twitter account, the latest Filipina to successfully make it in the international theater scene said of her win, “Thank you so much @ BroadwayWorldUK, especially to all those who voted for me! Means a lot. Maraming salamat po.” In a separate tweet, after receiving all the congratulatory messages, Rachel

by Alexis

romero Philstar.com

parents as well, you know that I really shouldn’t have left her PARIS—Fathers do not usually or her mother’s side at this time even for a single minute. Yet, attend work-related events here I am. I am here because abroad immediately after their when I represent Maria Letizia, I wives give birth. But it was not represent the world,” he added. the case for actor and National “You are all also here Youth Commission commissioner for yours—your sons and Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes.

Dantes is in this city to attend daughters—and for those still without, the children you are the climate talks, leaving behind about to bear, if fate bestows his wife, actress Marian Rivera, you.” who just gave birth to their first The Philippines is one of daughter Maria Letizia last Nov. the countries facing high risks 23. because of changes in the So what prompted him to assume his role as representative climate. It is one of the five of the youth at a time when he is countries that experienced the biggest number of weathervery much needed as a father? related disasters since 1995, For Dantes, his participation according to a recent report by at the climate meet is about the the United Nations Office for future of his daughter.

Disaster Risk Reduction.

“I come from an archipelago Another report by the United that knows an average of 22 Nations Children’s Fund warned typhoons a year. On paper, I am a commissioner representing the that children would bear the brunt of climate change because youth of the Philippines, but in about 530 million of them reside my heart I feel like I’m really just representing my daughter, Maria in flood-prone areas and 160 million others are in drought Letizia,” he told members of the severity zones.

Climate Vulnerable Forum on Dantes said young people Monday, Nov. 30. have an important role in “If you here are first time

spreading awareness about climate change, which has been blamed for natural disasters and extreme weather conditions.

He cited the launching of #NOWPH last year, which aims to promote vigilance for the care of the planet.

NOW, which stands for “Not on our Watch,” uses the Internet to encourage various sectors do their share in addressing climate change in a country known as the social media capital of the world.

Dantes said while there have been debates on whether to limit the global warming to below two degrees Celsius or 1.5 degrees, the heart of the issue is about caring for the planet regardless of race, color, stature or capacity.

“To choose to be involved and to get people involved is certainly the greatest contribution we can make in addressing the common problems we face in our common world. With a reach of 221 million social media impressions, and 3.6 million total pledges, please listen to all these voices saying NOW,” he said.

added, “Thank you for sending all your love. To God be the glory! Thank You po Lord!”

Fortunately, the Filipino audience will get to see Rachel Ann’s Broadway World award-winning performance as Fantine when “Les Mis” comes to Manila in March 2016.

While there seems to be no fancy awards night set for Broadway World UK’s annual voter’s choice awards, several theater based groups and publications have also picked up the news about Rachel Ann’s win, among them, the London Theater Workshop and West End Frame. Of the long list of winners, the reports especially mention the 29-year-old singer, as well as Hollywood star Benedict Cumberbatch (“Black Mass,” 2015; “The Imitation Game,” 2014; “Sherlock,” 2010) who earned the Best Leading Actor in A New Production Marian Rivera said she now has a complete family with husband Dingdong Dantes after she gave birth to daughter Letizia.

Instagram photo by Marian Rivera of a Play for “Hamlet.”

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Why Dingdong Dantes left newborn daughter behind for trip to Paris

PSYCHIC

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA HAVE you ever felt sometimes that nothing ever changes?

It feels like the same ‘ol, same ‘ol, each and every single day, doing the same thing over and over again from sunrise to sunset.

We are like the mythical Greek figure Sisyphus destined to roll a rock uphill. When we reach the topmost point, the rock rolls down to the bottom of the hill and we have to roll that rock again uphill over and over again until the end of our days. The tedium is enough to drive us out of our wit’s end.

But although it may sometimes feel like it, human life is not meant to evolve that way.

Human life wasn’t meant to move in half cycles or in flat lines. The best of human life was intended to go through seasons and complete one cycle – hopefully, happily in one glorious cycle until the end game, until it is time to cross over and to finally come home.

But while alive, we have to fight the tedium of our days.

The grease that puts the ease in cycling through the rough and tough seasons in one’s life with grace and equanimity is that wonderful thing called JOY. JOY is that magical, mystical potion from which loving and appreciating one’s life, with all its countless heartbreaks, comes. Seasons come. Seasons go. They move in cycles and circles.

A circle is perhaps the perfect geometric structure there is.

Although some would claim the triangle or a square to be better structures because of their

Circles, cycles and movement “Life is like riding a bicycle.

To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY D Ec E m b E R 4 , 20 1 5

Thank you for ‘A Second Chance’

— Albert Eistein

stable nature, the circle and all its derivatives — the orb, the sphere, the globe and every structure on earth and in the universe with a core, circumference and radii emanating from the core — can teach and even help us to understand much about nature, our very own human life story and its cycles and seasons.

From the micro to the macro levels, every creative urge in every level, in the intellectual and the physical realms, begins as a thought and if tenaciously pursued and fleshed out by one’s strength of will, proceeds from concept to completion as a circle.

Even in the mundane reality of living an ordinary life from day to day, circles and cycles mark the patterns of our lives.

Note nature’s seasons and cycles of birth and death, of sleep and wakefulness, of sunrise and sunset, of the waxing and waning of the moon and of the quarter million year rotation of the solar system around the core of our home galaxy, the Milky Way and in the grandest of levels, the movement of a nearly infinite number of galaxies in the universe, the edge of which only the Creator knows.

On the minutest level, the astounding movement of electrons around a nucleus and the wondrous flow of the human bloodstream from and to the heart are cyclical.

As science has found out, blockages, either man-made or natural to the flow or movement in the processes existing in nature at all levels, can create anomalies, abnormalities and mutations, resulting in pain and illnesses in the human body and if uncorrected, result in diseases, debilitation and ultimately, death. This presents a strong argument for regular exercise and movement, which pumps the movement of blood flow down to the capillaries and strengthens the muscles of the heart.

Nature moves in cycles. While the earth’s atmospheric cloak adheres to the surface because of the gravitational pull of the earth’s mass, the hydrologic cycle will continue to maintain our seas and give us rain to sustain all planetary life — that is, for the time being —unless something unforeseen and catastrophic upsets and upends this delicate homeostaticlike balance.

In a way, the life of our living, breathing planet is reflective of human life itself.

“Life,” according to Einstein, “is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”

And on that point, we are finding out he is absolutely right. ***

By Monet

John Llyod Cruz and Bea Alonzo in “A Second Chance”

who played Popoy, and Bea Alonzo who played Basha. Apart from these roles, I credit their chemistry to their professionalism and them being individually great artists.

A Rappler.com article released a very promising preview of what the audience will see of the movie: “The film is set in 2013.

Popoy and Basha (John Lloyd and Bea) are now married and juggling a business together.

Popoy is an engineer, while Basha is an architect. Fans will be happy to see the appearance of the friends from the previous movie.

The couple’s friends Krizzy and Kenneth (Dimples Romana and James Blanco) are still together and have one child. Anj (Bea Saw) is still single and cynical about love. Chinno (Janus del Prado) meanwhile is now a single father.

JP (Ahron Villena) on the other hand, is engaged to be married.”

A Second Chance is the sequel to One More Chance but more importantly, it is the realistic evolution of a really good love story. Fashioned in the same rom-com style and memorable lines that are hauntingly relatable.

Director, Cathy Garcia-Molina has once again and—unsurprisingly— turned another film into a genre.

As one writer says, “The success of One More Chance therefore allowed Garcia-Molina and writers Vanessa Valdez and Carmi Raymundo to explore Popoy and Basha’s marital woes within a more definite social context, one that has economic failures as a dominant root of domestic conflict, and not narrative contrivances like sudden mistresses or other accidental

debacles.

The film’s most sympathetic scenes are actually not the ones where the characters dramatically wail and whine about their misfortunes. They are the ones that quietly depict the delicate collapse of all the promises of the introduction’s hopeful wedding, the ones that show Popoy nonchalantly preferring the random noise of his television to the constant nagging of his wife, or the ones that reveal Basha conspicuously checking the price tags of glassware. “ I rarely recommend movies that I haven’t seen yet (but will definitely do when the schedule permits), but when I recommend a movie, it is because its content is worth lining up and contributing to the P43.3 million ticket sales.

To my readers, I believe we owe it to ourselves to give this movie a chance to win our hearts.

To the cast and the people behind A Second Chance, congratulations for a well-deserved success. Thank you for producing an honest depiction of a “love story.” May you continue to make movies like this. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary allnatural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

ON VIEW FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE UNITED STATES

Ambassador Jose Luis Cuisia (3rd from left) accepts his certificate of conferment as Knight Grand Officer of Rizal from (from left) Sir Atty Ferdinand Suba; Madame Eleanor De Leon; Consul General Mario De Leon; Sir Dr. Prospero Lim; Sir Francis Sison.

Asia Society Museum, New York THROUGH JANUARY 3, 2016

“Gorgeous” – New York Times “Fantastic” – New Yorker

(L-R) Consul General Mario De Leon; Eric Celedonio; Carlos Esguerra; Marvin Cadornigara; Dr Gary Villanueva and Atty Ferdinand Suba.

leadership focusing on economic, political and community relations to the youth. He cited the roadshows the Ambassador spearheaded to boost the business sector, his face-to-face meetings with politicians in 41 US states to push the Philippine and Filipino-American agenda in the United States, and the Ambassador’s brainchild, FYLPRO – which grants young

Filipino-Americans an immersion opportunity in the Philippines to incite a transformative spirit in the young leaders.

Along with Ambassador Cuisia, four other gentlemen were given special awards for excellence: Deacon Dr. Gary Villanueva for Medicine; Marvin Cadornigara for Education; Carlos L. Esguerra for Arts and Literature; and Eric Celedonio for Youth.

FDA takes several actions involving...

From Page 3 application would not have a significant environmental impact because of the multiple and redundant measures being taken to contain the fish and prevent their escape and establishment in the environment.

These measures include a series of multiple and redundant levels of physical barriers placed in the tanks and in the plumbing that carries water out of the facilities to prevent the escape of eggs and fish. Finally, the AquAdvantage Salmon are reproductively sterile so that even in the highly unlikely event of an escape, they would be unable to interbreed or establish populations in the wild.

The FDA will maintain regulatory oversight over the production and facilities, and will conduct inspections to confirm that adequate physical containment measures remain in

Lu

IN light of Thanksgiving last week, I begin my article with a message of thanks to all the things—good and not so good— that I went through. I believe they made me who I am today, and gave me a reason to be grateful for my life. I thank God that “a second chance” is always possible as long as we are living.

Such is the reminder that people are getting from the blockbuster movie-sequel, A Second Chance, top-billed by John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo. The title itself evokes the truth that second chances are what make the past worthy of recollection.

To say that the movie was a hit is an understatement. Having earned a whooping P43.3 million on its opening day proved more than just the movie’s consistent treatment and storyline, among others. It has proven, once again, that the masses still favor optimism over cynicism; reconciliation over separation, another chance versus a final straw.

As we gush over the ticket sales that placed the sequel to One More Chance to being the Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is highest grossing non-Metro SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To Manila Film Festival Filipino send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ movie on its opening day, we asianjournalinc.com instinctively repeat all the “hugot” lines that were birthed by this iconic movie. Lines such as “’I promise to love you even if it hurts. I love you more even when it hurts,’ “Poy, you made me feel like I’m your life’s biggest mistake.”

And my favorite: “And I’m also saying goodbye to all of my what ifs. That it’s brave to ask ‘what if,’ that I think it’s braver to ask ‘what is’—and Bash, I know—you’re my ‘what is.”

Some movie critics claim that no love team can give justice to these lines but John Lloyd Cruz,

Ambassador Cuisia receives high honors at KOR-NY awarding NEW YORK—The Knights of Rizal New York presented honors to exemplary members of the community during the Jose Rizal Awards for Excellence on Saturday, Nov. 28 at the Astoria World Manor in Queens, NY. Ambassador Jose Luis Cuisia was conferred as Grand Knight Officer of Rizal for his patriotic duty as the Philippine envoy to the United States.

In his keynote address, the Ambassador likened the Philippines’ recent principled actions to that of Dr Rizal’s in pursuing positive change through peaceful means. He cited the arbitration case filed by the Philippines to find a pacific resolution to the maritime dispute with China over the South China Sea. He echoed the administration’s principle of “Good governance is good economics,” on the reforms happening within our borders, which paved the way to economic progress recognized by the international community.

The ambassador emphasized the Philippines’ commitment in preserving the gains from these reforms especially demonstrated during the country’s hosting of APEC, with inclusive growth as this year’s central theme. Lastly, Ambassador Cuisia reported the strengthening Philippine-US bilateral relations and reaffirmation of the treaty alliance, strategic partnership, and historic friendship when President Obama met with President Aquino before the APEC. Consul General Mario De Leon praised the Ambassador on his leadership of the Foreign Service Posts in the US and his visionary

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An Asian Journal Magazine

place. In addition, the Canadian and Panamanian governments will also be conducting inspections of the facilities.

The FDA held a Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee meeting on the sufficiency of the scientific review and a hearing to gather opinions on labeling of food from AquAdvantage Salmon.

The agency received and reviewed comments from these two meetings. In addition, the agency released a draft environmental assessment and preliminary finding of no significant impact for public comment; these comments were also reviewed prior to the agency’s final decision.

Agency publishes guidances on voluntary labeling of food from genetically engineered sources The FDA’s responsibility is to ensure that foods under its purview meet applicable safety, labeling, and other statutory

and regulatory requirements.

Foods derived from GE plants and animals must meet the same requirements, including safety and labeling requirements, as other foods. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the FDA can only require additional labeling of foods derived from GE sources if there is a material difference – such as a different nutritional profile – between the GE product and its non-GE counterpart. In the case of the AquAdvantage Salmon, the FDA did not find any such differences.

“We recognize that some consumers are interested in knowing whether food ingredients are derived from GE sources,” said Susan Mayne, Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.

“The FDA is issuing two guidance documents that explain how food Continued on Page 6

(Detail) Kinnari. Surigao. Ca. 10th–13th century. Gold. Ayala Museum, 81.5189. Photography by Leandro Y. Locsin, Jr.; Image courtesy of Ayala Museum

J

oin us for an exhibition of over 100 spectacular works of gold, highlighting the prosperity and achievements of 10th–13th century Philippine kingdoms. A point of great pride for the Filipino community, this exhibition is a rare opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of the Philippines. A season of related programs celebrates Philippine culture, performing arts, film, design, cuisine, and more.

Exhibition organized by Asia Society, New York, and Ayala Museum, Philippines.

Special Group Tour Packages available for $20.00 per person; includes: A docent-led tour of the exhibition, a snack and drink from the Garden Court Café, and 10% off purchases at AsiaStore. Reservations required. Please email PhilippineGold@AsiaSociety.org or call 212.327.9237.

EXHIBITION

Video Spotlight: Philippines Through January 31, 2016 LOBBY SHOWCASE

Filipino Design Now Through January 3, 2016 FILM

Apparition Saturday, November 14 • 5:00

PM

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Kinding Sindaw Sunday, November 15 • 2–4

PM

FILM

On the Job Sunday, November 15 • 5:00

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ASIASTORE SALE EVENT

Lenora Cabili Tuesday, December 1 • 12:00–3:30

Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms is made possible by Ayala Corporation with additional support provided by Bank of the Philippine Islands, Del Monte Foods, Inc., Philippine Airlines, ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel, Tourism Promotions Board, Philippines, and other generous benefactors.

725 Park Ave. (at 70th St.) New York • 212.288.6400 AsiaSociety.org/NYC

PERFORMANCE

A “Golden” Opportunity Filipino New York Stories Friday, December 4 • 8

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For details and tickets, visit AsiaSociety.org/Philippines2015 or call the box office at 212.517.ASIA (2742) Monday through Friday, 1–5 PM.

PM

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An Asian Journal Magazine

Luis Manzano ‘hopeful’ Angel Locsin can still play Darna

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY D Ec E m b E R 4 , 20 1 5

by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

MANILA—Luis Manzano is “hopeful” that his girlfriend Angel Locsin can still star in the Star Cinema’s Darna movie project.

In October, Angel had to pull out of the film due to a disc bulge on her spinal column.

“She’s studying a lot of options and she has one or two in mind.

I think we just have to wait and see kung anong mangyayari sa operation,” Luis said.

With this, Luis is hopeful that “if management hasn’t started, maybe, maybe there’s a good chance [she’ll do Darna].”

FABLI SUMMER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS. Nelly’s Day Care Basketball Team defeated outsiders with a score of 91-64 to win the FABLI Summer League 2015. The team was coached by Ronnie Ocampo and featured League MVP Nico Meneses, who scored 23 points.

John Lloyd Cruz experiences a lot of firsts with MMFF entry

by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

MANILA—John Lloyd Cruz will experience a lot of first as his movie Honor Thy Father joins this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

The movie was initially not part of the eight entries of the 2015 MMFF. But earlier this month, it was announced that Honor Thy Father will officially part of the annual film fest after Gil Portes’ historical movie “Hermano Puli” backed out.

Although he has been in showbiz for over a decade, this is John Lloyd’s first time to be part of the MMFF. “I’m going to be busy promoting Honor Thy Father,” he replied when asked about his Christmas plans in an interview on Wednesday, Dec. 2.

“First time sasakay ako ng float. ‘Yon ang bago, first Christmas season ko na I’ll be working.”

Before getting busy with his MMFF entry, John Lloyd thanked

his fans who supported A Second Chance, the sequel of the film One More Chance which also stars Bea Alonzo.

John Lloyd admitted that while working on the film, he was “skeptical” of how the audience will embrace A Second Chance.

“Skeptical [ako] sa magiging reaction ng audience kasi hindi ito ‘yong glossy Star Cinema film na usually napapanood mo o puwede mo asahan,” he explained. “Tsaka kung alam n’yo lang ang process ng lahat sa paggawa nito, talagang kakabahan ka. It’s a very personal process para sa aming lahat.”

Despite all the worries, he is “very happy na nagustuhan ang end product kasi doon naman tayo nakatuon.”

Yet the viewers were not the only ones who learned from the film. John Lloyd admitted that he has learned a lot from his character Popoy when it comes to

John Lloyd Cruz

relationships.

He is currently in a relationship with Kapamilya actress Angelica Panganiban.

“I won’t go to details, that’ll be too personal,” he said. “Honestly after this film talagang mas maganda ang understanding ko about relationships. Dito ‘yon siguro ang biggest take ko, I had some enlightenment sa ilang areas with regards to relationships, ganyan.”

“Totoo naman kasi sa akin ‘yon and every character is a journey for me, every film,” he added.

FDA takes several actions involving...

From Page 5 companies that want to voluntarily label their products can provide this information to consumers.”

These two guidance documents include a draft guidance on voluntary labeling indicating whether food has or has

not been derived from GE Atlantic salmon, and a final guidance on voluntary labeling indicating whether food has or has not been derived from GE plants.

Although companies can always voluntarily add labeling to their products as long as it’s

truthful and not misleading, these guidances provide recommended actions for manufacturers who may wish to voluntarily label their products with information about whether the foods contain ingredients from GE sources.

The agency is accepting public

He also thanked the the Kapamilya actress’ fans who showed their support to her despite her sudden decision to let go of the project.

“I’ve seen hashtags saying, ‘We will wait for Angel as Darna.’That’s not to downplay any artists that we have today, but it goes to show that she did a great job bilang Darna. So thank you all on behalf of Angel,” he said.

Luis and Angel will go on vacation in Las Vegas, but he clarified that they won’t get hitched. They’ll be joined by Luis’ dad Edu Manzano and his siblings in their tour in Cuba and Miami.

Luis Manzano hopes Angel Locsin can still do Star Cinema’s Darna movie project.

New York Fil-Am community marks Bonifacio Day...

From Page 2 made by the same producers of the widely popular and critically acclaimed “Heneral Luna”.

“Bonifacio, Ang Unang Pangulo” won Best Picture at the Metro Manila Film Festival 2014, Star Awards 2015 and FAMAS Awards 2015.

In his opening remarks, Consul General Mario L. de Leon Jr. paid tribute to Bonifacio as “Father of the Philippine Revolution and the Filipino Nation”. He also pointed to how Andres Bonifacio’s place in the history of the Philippines continues to be the subject of

many a debate even until today.

“Rightly so, because debates lead to enlightenment and understanding, something that we should strive to achieve when it comes to our Philippine heroes, especially among our secondgeneration Filipino-Americans,” the Consul General said.

During the opening program, Prof. Luis Francia, professor of Asian-American Studies both at New York University and Hunter College and a prize-winning writer, and Mr. Gil Quito, New Yorkbased film historian, scriptwriter and producer for TV, film and

stage, gave a brief overview of the Bonifacio’s the person and of the film, respectively.

Prof. Francia and Mr. Quito joined the Consul General in a stimulating talk-back after the screening, where they addressed questions from the audience.

A number of the questions dealt with whether Bonifacio should be considered the first president of the Philippines and his relationship with Jose Rizal vis-à-vis La Liga Filipina, and the challenge of raising awareness of the Philippine heroes among the young generation.

comment for 60 days starting on November 24 via instructions in the Federal Register on Draft Guidance for Industry: Voluntary Labeling Indicating Whether Food Has or Has Not Been Derived from Genetically Engineered Atlantic Salmon.

How to comment on the Draft Guidance To comment on the draft guidance on voluntary labeling

indicating whether food has or has not been derived from GE Atlantic salmon: 1. Read the Draft Guidance.

2. Starting Tuesday, November 24, submit comments on the draft guidance on Regulations.gov.

The FDA, an agency within the US Department of Health and Human Services, protects

the public health by assuring the safety and effectiveness of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices.

The agency also is responsible for the safety of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, and products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

4th Impact after ‘X Factor UK’ exit: Let’s keep believing

by ChuCk

Smith Philstar.com

MANILA — All-Filipino girl group 4th Impact remains grateful for their X Factor UK journey despite being eliminated from the British reality talent show on Sunday, Nov. 29.

A few hours after their exit from the show, sisters Almira, Mylene, Celina and Irene Cercado took to Twitter to thank their fans for voting for them on the competition.

4th Impact was eliminated for having the lowest number of public votes. The group went on a sing-off with Lauren Murray for being in the bottom two.

Reports say Celina collapsed on stage after their group was

by ChuCk

Smith Philstar.com

Pinoy group 4th Impact thanks their fans for support them on “X Factor UK.”

eliminated from the competition.

Their mentor Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and X Factor UK judge Rita Ora also expressed their well-wishes for the group on Twitter.

4th Impact, previously

known on the show as 4th Power, was among the early favorites to do well in the competition following their well-received performance of the hit Bang Bang for their audition.

MANILA—Did Lovi Poe admit she is now single?

This is question asked by fans of the GMA-7 star after Lovi made a joke about being single on her social media account.

On her Instagram account, the 26-year-old actress has been posting photos of her vacation in Italy.

In an Instagram video she posted on Tuesday, Dec. 1, Lovi made a self-deprecating joke about her being alone while being surrounded by couples.

“Hay naku, kapag bakasyon talaga, may mga ano,” she said.

Showing a couple in the background, Lovi jokingly said: “E di sila na ang may love life. Sila na, sila na ang may love life. E di kayo na.

Ang saya-saya n’yo!”

In another photo, Lovi is with a couple locked in an embrace. “Sums up my love life. I’m obviously the girl on the right,” Lovi said.

Lovi Poe makes a joke about being alone, prompting her fans to ask if she has already broken up with Rocco Nacino.

The jokes come amid rumors that she has already broken up with GMA-7 actor Rocco Nacino.

In an Instagram post last month, Rocco denied rumors that he stole from his and Lovi’s joint bank account, saying no such thing exists. He also denied that there’s

a “third party,” although Rocco did not say if he and Lovi are still together.

In a recent interview with showbiz news site Philippine Entertainment Portal, Rocco remained mum on the rumored breakup with Lovi.

Fil-Am Amy Vachal makes it to ‘The Voice’ Top 9 SHE’S not saying “bye, bye, bye.”

Filipino-American jazz singer Amy Vachal’s journey in the “The Voice” continues as it was announced on Tuesday, Dec. 1 that she made it to the hit singing competition’s Top 9.

Vachal continued her and coach Adam Levine’s tested strategy of flipping successful songs from different genres to suit her jazzy and folksy leanings. On Tuesday (Monday, US time), Vachal The National Geographic Traveler presented a list of “go-now destinations that will get you packing this 2016,” and Philippines is among them.

endangered Philippine eagle— reside in Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, which recently joined northern Luzon’s rice terraces as a World Heritage site.”

Other countries included on the list are: • South Georgia Island, Winnipeg (Canada)

• Côte d’Or (Burgundy, France) • Rio Grande do Norte (Brazil) • Glasgow (Scotland) Greenland • Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hokkaido (Japan) • New York City (USA) • Okavango Delta (Botswana) • Masurian Lake District (Poland) (Philstar.com)

Megastars, Fire Beneath...

From Page 2 growing trend that brings the best of Filipino film to the world screens.

Almira Astudillo Gilles talks with Florina H. Capistrano-Baker, Co-Curator of Philippine Gold, about her novel, The Fire Beneath: Tales of Gold on Monday, Dec. 7. 6:30-8:30pm. Inspired by the discovery of the Surigao gold treasures, many of which are featured in Asia Society’s current exhibition, this exciting new novel tells the gripping story of a poor bulldozer operator who unearths a golden treasure trove during a construction project. Gilles gives us a picture of the lives of the laborer’s family and what happens to them and the people around them. In this powerful and insightful new novel, this awardwinning Filipino-American author pushes beyond the anticipated tribulations that would inevitably

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY d Ec E m b E R 4 , 20 1 5

Amid breakup rumors, Lovi Poe jokes about being single

National Geographic picks Philippines as must-see for 2016 MANILA— The National Geographic Traveler presented a list of “go-now destinations that will get you packing this 2016,” and Philippines is among them.

Tagging the Philippines as “An Island for Every Taste,” the US-based magazine describes the country as “a mix of tribal pride, Catholic fervor, American pop-culture savvy, and tropical affability.”

With a total of 7,107 islands, visiting at least one of the Spanish churches in the old, walled center of Intramuros and stroll around Manila Bay at sunset and indulging in beaches such as those in Palawan, Apo and Siargao should be included in one’s mustsee list if visiting the Philippines, the magazine says.

The magazine also took note of the rich biodiversity in Mindanao.

“On the southern isle of Mindanao, more than 1,300 land species—including the

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An Asian Journal Magazine

follow unexpected good fortune, as she digs deeper into the contrasts which are unearthed by this extraordinary find: discovery and concealment, greed and generosity, secularization and spirituality. Followed by a booksale and signing/ Gilles is Winner of the Philippine Presidential Award 2012 for Literature. It will be indeed a most wonderful dialogue.

For tickets, call (212) 517-2742 or visit www.asiasociety.org Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas and Liz Casasola, founder of Broadway Barkada are among the roster of Filipino American Storytellers who will share their tales of golden opportunities in the US on Friday, Dec. 4, 8-9:30pm. Co-presented

by FAM (Filipino American Museum), Asia Society presents A “Golden” Opportunity: Filipino New York Stories. Curated with

Nancy Bulalacao-Leung, meet the extraordinary people responsible for the Filipino Renaissance in New York—an unprecedented up swell of creativity, leadership, and style within the Filipino community.

In this exuberant cabaret-style program, Filipino New Yorkers will recount the moments that shaped their lives—in five-minute, story slam style. This is a celebration of identity and community followed by a reception. For tickets, call (212) 517-2742 or visit www.asiasociety. org Get into the spirit! The Asia Society Museum will be hosting a Filipino Holiday Celebration on Friday, Dec. 11, 6-9pm. Filipino Christmas song, delicious Pica Pica and specialty cocktails are the treats for the evening. There’s also holiday shopping available at the AsiaStore at a 20 percent discount. Admission is free at Friday Fil Am Night.

covered “Bye, Bye, Bye,” one of the biggest hits from American boy band *Nsync.

The official twitter page of the boy band praised her, saying her rendition was “well done.”

Her version also made it to the Top 10 of the iTunes charts. Her previous covers of Drake’s “Hotline Bling” and Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” also proved to be popular among the viewers.

Both of Gwen Stefani’s bets, Korin Bukowski and Braiden

Calendar of Events across

Sunshine faced elimination, but viewers chose to save Sunshine, ultimately sending Bukowski home.

Joining Vachal in the Top 9 are fellow Team Adam members Jordan Smith and Shelby Brown.

Team Gwen’s Jeffrey Austin and Sunshine; Team Blake Shelton’s Zach Seabaugh, Barrett Baber and Emily Ann Robertson; and Team Pharrell Williams’ Madi Davis also made it through the next round.

(Inquirer.net)

America

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Filipinotown Christmas Festival and Parade

This holiday season, the Historic Filipinotown Christmas Festival kicks off on Friday, December 4th with a Christmas Parade along the streets of Temple, Beverly, and Alvarado.

Participants in the parade come from various community organizations and businesses, and include Fil-Am community leaders and humanitarian advocates. A reception will follow after the parade with live entertainment, vendor booths, and delicious food. The crowning of Miss/Mrs. Filipinotown will be presented on December 11th at Casa Italiana in downtown Los Angeles. Join us as we celebrate the holidays in Historic Filipinotown! Please email Project Manager Lou Razon at lou.filipinotown@gmail.com for sponsorship inquiries, or visit www.historicfilipinotown.org for more details.

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Santo Nino de Cebu Association Annual Dinner Dance The Santo Niño de Cebu Association of Southern California, Inc. will hold its ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER DANCE on December 5, 6pm - 12:00 midnight, at Almansor Court (700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801). For more details and reservations, please contact Helah (626) 215-2684, Gemma (909) 997-1026, Nelia (818) 425-9926, Joy (909) 228-0437 or Willo (818) 458-0779.

Pasigueñans of Northern California 30th Annual Fiesta Celebration The Pasigueñans of Northern California invites all Pasigueñans, families, and friends to its 30th Annual Fiesta in honor of its patroness, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. The annual fiesta will be held on Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 1:00pm to 8:00pm at Joseph A. Fernekes Building, in Orange Memorial Park (781 Tennis Drive, South San Francisco, CA 94080). Celebration of the Holy Mass will be at 3:00pm, which will be followed by a sumptuous dinner, dancing, entertainment, and raffle drawing. For more information, please contact Flery Santos-Panganiban (707-567-4779), Polly Santiago-Cortez (925-876-7695), Edna Balido-Reyes (925-260-9764), Edith Balido (925-681-9770), Chit Santos-Dalangin (707-7047887), Marico Enriquez (650-483-8306), Oscar Rosales (707-332-4991), Jerry Field (925-6810974), Marivic Beltran-Tuazon (707-656-1081), or Pete Saguisag (650-994-0701).

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St. Joseph School presents WRAPPING ALL THE WAY What: Annual Christmas Presentation Featuring TK through 4th Grade and Parish When: Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 7:00 pm Where: St. Joseph Parish (1150 W. Holt Avenue Pomona, CA 91768) The St. Joseph School Annual Christmas program serves as an opportunity for all students and parishioners to come together to celebrate the joyful season. All are welcome to come and be merry. Donations are welcome. For more information, please call: Director Ning Manahan at (909) 629-4101 or (909) 622-3365

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LA Archdiocesan SIMBANG GABI 2015 WHAT: LA Archdiocesan SIMBANG GABI 2015 WHEN: Tuesday, December 15, at 6:30pm WHERE: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels (555 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012) Principal Celebrant: Most Rev. Jose H. Gomez, D.D., Archbishop of Los Angeles The Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, San Fernando Pastoral Region, will sponsor the first day of the Archdiocesan Simbang Gabi. Pre-liturgy/Parol Procession will begin at 6:30 pm, followed by the Mass celebrated by Archbishop Rev. Jose H. Gomez. Filipiniana attire is requested to be worn by organizers and participants. This year’s theme is “Jesus Our Savior, Empower Our Families to be Better Stewards of Your Creation.” For the Parol Procession Guidelines and other information, contact any Chairperson: Patty Santiago – email: piesan@hotmail.com; Phone: (818) 472-4288 or Raymond de Guzman- email: rdeguzman1317@verizon.net; Phone: (818) 634-8664.

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Blessed Hope Christian Church Night of Praise Come celebrate the birth of Christ and praise God with the congregation at our upcoming Christmas Praise Night, on Friday, December 18 at 7:30pm. Our church can be found at 474 North Summit Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103. Please contact Jun Recio (818) 472-5244 for more details.

On Mon, Nov 23, 2015 at 10:27 AM, Allyson Escobar <a.escobar@asianjournalinc.com> wrote: ONE MORE thank you!

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

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The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY dEcEmbER 4, 2015