102717 - New york:New Jersey Edition

We’ve got you covered from Hollywood to Broadway... and Online!

Volume 11 – Issue 03 • 16 Pages

O C T O BE R 2 7 - N O V E MBE R 2 , 2 0 1 7

133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858 • 2500 Plaza S. Harborside Financial Center, Jersey City, NJ 07311 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Filipino WWII Vets honored at historic Congressional Gold Medal ceremony

by MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPress

FILIPINO Veterans of World War II were honored in a bipartisan and bicameral Congressional Gold Medal ceremony on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, Oct. 25, by Speaker Paul Ryan (RWI), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) who presided over the official presentation.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor the United States can bestow.

In accordance with Public Law No: 114-265, a single gold medal has been struck to honor the Filipino veterans of World War II in recognition of their dedicated service during the war.

“Today, we recognize the extraordinary heroism and sacrifice of the Filipino Veterans of World War II by conferring the highest honor Congress can bestow. Generations of Americans and Filipinos alike have been shaped by their courage, inspired by their service and humbled by their sacrifice,” Rep. Nancy Pelosi said. “We are inspired not only by their bravery

DATELINE

USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Authorities revealed on Friday, October 20 that Fil-Am Joseph Orbeso, 22, fatally shot his girlfriend Rachel Nguyen, 20, before turning the gun on himself in a remote area of Joshua Tree National Park. The pair’s bodies were recovered on Monday, October 16, after being reported missing nearly two months ago.

Photo from a GoFundMe page set up for the couple

Young Fil-Am hiker and friend dead from apparent ‘sympathetic murder-suicide’

on the battlefield but also by the courage they have shown in fighting for the recognition they have earned but long been denied. We must not rest until the service of every Filipino veteran is recognized and rewarded.”

The long-awaited event was a formal presentation recognizing the tremendous service and sacrifice of Filipino WWII veterans during the war from July 26, 1941 to December 31, 1946.

Some of the families of the surviving veterans and representatives of those who have passed on attended the event.

The Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP) spearheaded the national campaign to secure the Congressional Gold Medal for these Veterans. FilVetRep is also the officially-designated liaison to the U.S. Mint, which handles the design and minting of the Congressional Gold Medal.

In his special remarks, Filipino World War II veteran Celestino Almeda of Gaithersburg, Maryland said that many of his fellow soldiers have passed away as they waited 75 years for this day to come. It is estimated that there are Filipino Veterans of World War II were honored in a bipartisan and bicameral Congressional Gold Medal ceremony on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, Oct. 25, fewer than 7,000 surviving veterans residing in by Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), and Senate Democratic

u PAGE A2

Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) who presided over the official presentation.

Palace: DOJ to study treason allegations against Trillanes

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

MALACAÑANG said it would be up to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to probe allegations that Senator Antonio Trillanes IV committed treason when he discussed with United States officials the corruption and human rights situation in the Philippines.

In a radio interview on Sunday, October 22, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar was asked to comment if Trillanes should be charged with treason.

Andanar said that the opposition senator should be investigated first before any con-

clusions can be made.

“Ah ‘yan ay pag-aaralan ng Department of Justice, pag-aaralan ‘yan ng mga abogado ng ating pangulo, sapagka’t ito rin po ay mga legal matters (That will be studied by the Department of Justice, that will be studied by the lawyers of our president because these are legal matters),” the communications secretary responded.

“We have to study this first. It’s hard to make hasty pronouncements,” he added.

Last week, U.S. Republican Senator Marco Rubio, a critic of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war, confirmed in

u PAGE A3

u PAGE A2

MADE IN RUSSIA. President Rodrigo Duterte examines a Kalashnikov rifle, one of 5,000 given by Russia to the Philippines on Wednesday, Oct. 25. Duterte, accompanied by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Eduardo Año and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., toured the Russian anti-submarine ship Admiral Pantaleev docked at the Manila port.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma

Narco suspect tags Drilon, Duterte, Trump to discuss Roxas as drug protectors security, trade at ASEAN meet

by DANA

SIOSON

AJPress

Bodies found at Joshua Tree National Park after three months

INVESTIGATORS said on Friday, October 20 that a young couple, whose bodies were discovered in a remote area of Joshua Tree National Park earlier this week, died from a murder-suicide — but upon speaking to investigators, relatives of the victims say it was a “sympathetic murder-suicide.”

Screen grab from Speaker.gov

Target of drug probe: Senator Franklin Drilon and Mar Roxas’ alleged ties to Melvin Odicta Sr. (center).

Inquirer.net photos

A TOP drug personality has implicated Senator Franklin Drilon and former Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II as protectors of the drug trade in Visayas.

Ricky Serenio, confessed bagman of the Berya drug cartel, submitted an affidavit last week identifying the two Liberal Party (LP) stalwarts as protectors of

u PAGE A4

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

Nations (ASEAN) conference next month.

In a chance interview on SECURITY and trade relations are among the top issues to be dis- Wednesday, October 25, Cayetano cussed at the upcoming bilateral said Duterte and Trump would dismeeting between Philippine Presi- cuss the threats posed by terrorism dent Rodrigo Duterte and United and illegal drugs to the public.

“What’s the fundamental interStates President Donald Trump in est, intersecting interest of AmeriManila.

According to Philippine For- ca and the Philippines? First is seeign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter curity…which includes terrorism Cayetano, the two top leaders are and drugs, the threat of terrorism slated to meet on the sidelines of and illegal drugs. Secondly, trade. the Association of Southeast Asian u PAGE A2

As NorCal fires near DFA chief: PH to reject aid with conditionalities from all countries containment, Fil-Ams tell their stories

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

Filipina caregiver who stayed with patient in Napa among those who perished

EVER since the massive wildfires began in Northern California on October 8, fire and police officials have been grappling with containing the ongoing devastation as well as searching for more information on

u PAGE A3

Foreign Affairs Sec. Alan Peter Cayetano

THE Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday, October 25 clarified that the government’s policy to reject foreign aid applies to all countries and not just the European Union (EU).

In an interview with reporters, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Malacañang photo Peter Cayetano said the new

policy on accepting foreign aid came from Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte himself.

“I cleared it with the president last night. It is the policy to all countries. If you’re going to give us conditionalities that will affect our sovereignty to give you the right to interfere into our domestic affairs, we will not accept that donation,” Cayetano said.

As for foreign assistance that comes with certain conditions,

the country’s top diplomat explained it may be given directly to Filipinos through non-government organizations.

“Now questions, will the people not suffer? No, because you can give it directly to the people.

So for example, the U.S., they use the international organizations, even EU gives some of the money to the International Red Cross,” the DFA official said.

u PAGE A5

A october 27-november 2, 2017 • neW YorK AnD neW JerSeY ASIAn JoUrnAL

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

From the Front Page

Filipino WWII Vets honored...

PAGE A1 t the United States today.

“After the war, we felt underappreciated and under-recognized and I wondered what else could we have done, but we stayed loyal and relied on our faith and prayers. We thank God for watching over us in this long ordeal,” said the 100-year-old veteran, who received wild applause and standing ovation from the audience.

“With the gold medal we present today we are paying tribute to a selfless sacrifice, we are remembering the indomitable spirit of a Pacific people, we are preserving for generations hence this enduring reminder of valor and of honor. This powerful symbol of a nation’s gratitude,” said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, thanking the veterans.

Among the other speakers at the event were Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Rep. Ed Royce, Sen. Mazie Hirono and Sen. Dean Heller.

The ceremony is a result of Congresswoman Gabbard and Senator Hirono’s bill to honor the over 260,000 Filipino and FilipinoAmerican soldiers who fought in the Pacific Theater.

“What a wonderful day for many veterans who have patient-

ly been waiting for this. We are finally righting this wrong, and finally honor the service and sacrifice of these heroes and their families, and ensure they are never forgotten,” Rep. Gabbard said.

Sen. Hirono in her speech said that the recognition is the culmination of decades of hard work to honor the veterans for their service to our country.

“Today is an opportunity to say ‘Thank You’ to the more than 250,000 Filipinos who heeded the call of then President Roosevelt. Only 18,000 of them are still alive and theirs is a story of struggle and perseverance,” Hirono said.

“Presenting the Congressional Gold Medal to our Filipino World War II veterans is a long overdue honor for hundreds of thousands of veterans and their families.

Last Veterans Day, Filipino World War II veteran Domingo Los Banos urged me to make sure our Congressional Gold Medal bill was passed that year. I hope that today’s ceremony conveyed to Domingo and every other veteran our gratitude for their service during the war and recognition of the hardship they face in receiving the benefits they earned.”

From July 1941 to December

Duterte, Trump to discuss...

PAGE A1 t So if you have security but the people are hungry, it’s useless,” Cayetano disclosed.

The top diplomat added that the U.S. government is also seeking a free trade agreement with the Philippines.

“They’re negotiating many regional and multilateral trade agreements but there’s a possibility that we will explore a bilateral agreement,” he said.

Trump is expected to visit Manila from November 12 to 13 and participate in the special gala celebration of the 50th anniversary of ASEAN and the ASEAN-U.S. meeting.

The U.S. leader, however, will skip the East Asia Summit (EAS) on November 14 in Pampanga.

“The decision was really that he will be here on the 12th and 13th [of November]. We tried to accommodate. We tried to fix all

the schedules. But since you’re dealing with more than a dozen world leaders plus the ASEAN, it’s very difficult to get all the schedules together,” Cayetano said.

“They were actually just waiting for the East Asia Summit (EAS) [schedule]. Now that it has been finalized that the East Asia Summit will be on the 14th, it looks like his Secretary of State would be the one to attend,” he added, referring to U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

Cayetano explained that Trump could not extend his stay in the Philippines as the U.S. leader still has to visit other countries that are part of his Asia-Pacific tour. These include China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and the U.S. state of Hawaii.

“It would have been great if President Trump could attend all the activities but the reality is any

1946, 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers served and fought for the United States and the Philippines to topple Axis powers during World War II. In July of 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called all organized military forces of the Philippines into the service of the United States. Their bravery, heroism, and dedication played an integral part in leading Allied powers to victory over Nazi and fascist forces. They were promised U.S. citizenship and health and pension benefits.

In February 1946, the U.S. Congress passed the Rescission Act of 1946, which stripped Filipino soldiers the benefits promised by President Roosevelt.

Hirono and Gabbard’s bill, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act (Public Law 114-265), was signed into law by President Barack DUTERTE MEETS WITH JACK MA. Alibaba founder Jack Ma visited President Rodrigo Duterte at Malacañang on Wednesday, Oct. 25. The Obama and awarded the medal Chinese billionaire is in the country for a series of talks and to promote a mobile payment system.

Malacañang photo collectively to the over 260,000 Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who responded to President Roosevelt’s call-to-duty and fought under the American flag during World War II. “Today we pay tribute to the PAGE A1 t ment, Trillanes disputed any quarter of a million Filipinos a Twitter post that he met with possible treason charges against who answered an American Trillanes. him. u PAGE A3 “Nagtraydor daw ako sa bay“Senator @TrillanesSonny & I discussed U.S.-#Philippines al- an dahil nakipag usap ako kay world leader, especially of the liance, combating corruption & (I was accused of betraying my United States, cannot spend too protecting #humanrights amid country because I met with) many days outside [his country]… their narcotics crisis,” Rubio U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio kahit pa sinabi na nya mismo na (even He’s attending most of the activi- said in a tweet.

Last year, Rubio expressed Rubio himself said we only talkties, and the bilaterals with the allies including the Philippines. It’s “grave concern about the cam- ed about) PH-U.S. alliance, cora very, very strong message of paign of extrajudicial killings ruption and human rights situand human rights violations” ation ang pinagusapan namin,” friendship,” he said.

The EAS is composed of the ten under the Duterte administra- Trillanes said in a statement.

“Ano naman ngayon ang ASEAN countries and its dialogue tion.

Trillanes, for his part, con- tawag sa mga protektor ng partners Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, firmed that his meeting with isang presidenteng pumatay at Rubio focused on “enhancing nagpapapatay ng mga Pilipino, the U.S. and Russia.

Apart from the Philippines, RP-U.S. relations, corruption, mga bayani? Pwede ba, umayos ASEAN countries include Brunei, and the human rights situation kayo! (Now what do you call the Senator Antonio Trillanes IV Inquirer.net photo protectors of a president who Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Ma- in the country.” signed by Senior Assistant State kills and orders the killings of The Filipino senator, however, laysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thaidenied reports claiming that he Filipinos? Heroes? Stop joking Prosecutor Edwin S. Dayon on land and Vietnam.

October 9.

Despite Trump being unable to tried to convince officials to stop around),” he added.

The DOJ charged Trillanes of Libel case attend the EAS, the U.S. govern- U.S. President Donald Trump’s Also on Monday, the DOJ filed “defaming and maligning the ment reaffirmed its commitment visit to Manila scheduled next month. He further clarified that a libel case against Trillanes over reputation and causing the disto the region.

“We have made very clear that he only “presented only factual media statements he made in honor” of Binay when the senathe United States is fully commit- information” before the foreign 2015 against former Vice Presi- tor was quoted as saying in a ted to the Asia Pacific region,” said officials, saying the U.S. govern- dent Jejomar Binay, who is also Philippine Daily Inquirer report that he would expose an alleged U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines ment cannot “fooled” because a former Makati City mayor.

The case was filed before the P100-million “racket” of the Sung Kim, saying that “it is in our “they know what’s happening” Makati City Regional Trial Court former vice president in Makati interest to remain closely engaged in the Philippines.

Reacting to Andanar’s state- (RTC) and its information was City. n in the Asia Pacific region.” n

FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS

( Mt Carmel, Mt Beatitude, Mt.Tabor, Cana, Capernum, Nazareth, Mt. of Olives, Old & New Jerusalem, Bethlehem Qumran, Masada, Jericho )

Dec 3 to 14, 2017

Spiritual Director: Rev. Fr. Alvin Cachola

Palace: DOJ to study treason...

Italia� Pilgrimag� Ho�� �eek� March 23 to April 3,2018 Spiritual Director : TBA

Day 1 - March 23, 2018 (Fri) Los Angeles, California to Venice, Italy Trans-Atlantic flight from LAX to LHR connect to our flight to Venice (Meals served in-flight)

Day 2 - March 24, 2018 (Sat) Venice, Italy 3 DEC-Day 1 - (Sun) LAX/TLV On board meals are served

4 DEC-Day 2 - (Mon) - Arrive at Ben Gurion airport Tel-Aviv/Tiberias

After you have finished Immigration, collect Luggage then Meet our guide and driver. Transfer to Tiberias , Dinner /overnight Gai Beach Hotel

After we clear Immigration & Custom, we will meet our Tour Director and driver for our transfer to our hotel,. Dinner at the hotel.( Dinner) If time permit, discover the most romantic views of Venice on foot and from the comfortable seats of a gondola, spend some time gliding through the cities peaceful canals.

Day 3 – March 25, 2018 (Sun) Venice, Italy

Holy Eucharist at the Church of annunciation “And Mary said, Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” We head to Cana of Galilee, where Our Lord performed the first miracle – changing water into wine at the wedding feast. Here, we’ll invite couples to renew their marriage vows. Continue to Nazareth, Celebrate Holy Eucharist at the Church of Annunciation, visit St Joseph workshop. We return to Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)

The greatness of Venice has always been reflected in the richness of St. Mark’s Basilica, the perfect synthesis of Venetian art and a unique blend of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic elements. Five Oriental-looking domes crown the shadowy, mysterious interior gleaming with golden mosaics, colored marbles, precious stones and pearls, and guarded by the four gilded bronze horses that stand proudly atop the central entrance. The glittering mosaics of the interior tell the story of St. Mark and episodes from the Bible. It’s most famous treasure stands behind the altar in the sanctuary - the Pala D’Oro, a golden altar screen encrusted with jewels We’ll visit theDoge’s Palace, the magnificent VenetianGothic building from where the leaders of the former Venetian Republic ruled until the late 18th century. Head inside and explore the grandiose public chambers that the doges lavished with fine art and ornamentation. Masterpieces by Renaissance champions.(BB,D) Holy Mass at St. Marks Basilica.

07 Dec-Day 5 - (Thurs) Mt Tabor/Mt Beatitude/Capernum/ Sea of Galilee/Tabgha

Day 4 - March 26, 2018 (Mon) Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

5 DEC-Day 3 - (Tues) Cesarea /Haifa

There was a certain man in Caesarea” Drive north to the sparkling port city of Haifa, viewing Caesarea en route, the city built by Herod. In Haifa, we will ascend Mt. Carmel; home of the two prophets Elijah and Elisha, Visit the Stella Maris Church celebrate Holy Mass in the main Altar, after enjoy the panoramic view of the Mediterranean, continue to Tiberias for dinner and overnight. Gai Beach Hotel (BB,D)

6 DEC-Day 4 - (Wed) - Tiberias/ Cana/ Nazareth

We drive to Mount Tabor, celebrate Holy Eucharist at the church of Transfiguration, Visit Mt. of Beatitudes the site of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus preached to the people. enjoy a scenic boat ride across the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, home of Our Lord during his ministry. After visiting the Synagogue where he taught, proceed to Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Gai Beach Hotel for our dinner and overnight. (BB/D)

08 DEC-Day 6 - (FRI)-Jordan valley/Jericho/Bethany/Jerusalem

After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from Venice to San Giovanni Rotondo, the home of Padre Pio of Pietrelcina from 28 July 1916 until his death on 23 September 1968. Sit back, relax and enjoy the drive and take in the picturesque scenery along the way. We will reach our hotel in San Giovanni Rotondo in the afternoon. Will have panoramic sightseeing on the way to our hotel,(BB,D).

Day 5 - March 27,2018 (Tues) San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

Drive the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the oldest inhabited city in the world. View the Mount of temptation, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert. Visit the ancient ruins of the wall. Drive through Wadi Welt to view St George’s Monastery. Continue to Bethany celebrate Holy Eucharist, and then visit the tomb of Lazarus. Arrive in Mount Scopus; enjoy the first view of Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at Notre DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)

We begin the day by celebrating Holy Eucharist. Eucharist,. Followed by a short film about St. Padre Pio.Done by our local guide who are very knowledgeable about the life of St. Padre Pio. We’ll start our visit with the Old Church.Here you can see his cell, his confessional box, the crucifix from which he received the stigmata, and nearly everything he owned or touched, carefully preserved and labeled. Then will visit the New Basilica, Santa Maria delle Grazie (Our Lady of Grace) dedicated to Padre Pio. (BB,D)

09 DEC-Day 7 - (Sat) - Jerusalem (old City) - Via Dolorosa

Day 6 March 28,2018 (Wed)San Giovanni Rotondo

Holy Sepulcher Church “And he bearing his cross went forth into a place of a skull, which was called in Hebrew Golgotha” Enter the old city of Jerusalem, Sing a hymn in the Church of St Anne and view the pool of Bethesda. Visit the Chapel of Flagellation, Lithostrotos, where the soldiers played the Game of Kings, and Arch of the “Ecce Homo”. Follow the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) to the holiest shrine in Christendom, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visit Golgotha and the tomb of Our Lord. This afternoon drive to Mount Zion, to visit the upper room, revered as the site of the last supper. Then survey the Dormition Abbey’s, St. Peter in Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus three times. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME Vatican Hotel (BB.D)

Holy Eucharist in the Morning in the New Basilica.followed by Station of the Cross. Rest of day spend Praying and meditating (BB,D)

10 DEC-Day 8 - (SUN) - Mount of Olives/Gethesemane/Bethlehem/New City

Day 8 - March 30 2018 (Fri) Assisi to Florence (Good Friday)

Holy Eucharist celebration at the Church of all nations Main altar Arrive at the Mount of Olives and enjoy the beautiful view of Jerusalem. Visit the Chapel of Ascension, Pater Noster Church and the Dominus Flevit Church”God wept “& walk the Palm Sunday road to the Garden of Gethesemane and the Church of all Nations. This Afternoon drive to Bethlehem, a city whose name the whole world recognizes ,visit the Church of Nativity, the manger, Church of St Catherine, The Grotto of St Jerome, and the shepherds fields. Dinner and overnight at NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB ,D).

11 DEC-Day 9 - ( MON) - Jerusalem/Dead Sea/Qumran/Masada

Visit the Western Wall , the only part of the Herodian temple still standing and the most sacred place in the world for Jews. We drive to Dead Sea, the lowest spot on earth. Visit Qumran; see the caves where the Dead Sea scrolls were discovered. Continue to Masada, visit Herod’s fortress and the Jew’s last stronghold against the Roman. Return to Jerusalem Overnight Notre Dame Vatican Hotel (BB,D)

12 DEC-Day10 - (TUE) Jerusalem New City

Return to the new City, Including the Temple Model to see a scale model of Jerusalem as it was during the time of Jesus. Here we will have a better understanding between old and New Jerusalem. Next to Ein Karem, birthplace of St John the Baptist, visit the Visitation church where Mary proclaimed her famous “Magnificat Overnight NOTRE DAME VATICAN HOTEL (BB,D)

13 Dec-Day 11 - (WED) Jerusalem/TLV/LAX

Breakfast rest of the morning Free time early PM dinner has to check out from the hotel, around 8:30 PM flight from TLV/ LAX in the 13 Dec flight depart TLV at 1:00 Am Dec 14,2017 ( end of Service )

Day 7 – March 29, 2018 (Thur) San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena, Italy

After breakfast, we will spend the day travelling from San Giovanni Rotondo to Siena. We will begin in the old town center with a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico. Built in the 13th century, it is a treasure chest of Renaissance art and is dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena. You’ll learn about the city’s history while admiring its cathedrals, museums, and libraries. Then admire famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s great medieval squares.(BB,D) Continue to Assisi overnight /Dinner Celebrate Holy Eucharist in the Crypt where the tomb of the most beloved saints is located ,after Mass visit the Basilica of St Francis, We’ll also visit the Basilica of St.Claire After Lunch continue to Florence Best know for it leather goods,the best in the world Leather (BB,D) Free time in the afternoon Dinner/ Overnight

Day 9 - March 31, 2018 (Sat) Florence to Rome

2 hrs walking tours of Florence,before we continue to Rome We will have a guided walking tour of this fascinating city with its Piazza, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist, Continue to Rome.

Upon our arrival in Rome, Guided tours of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel .See the Largest church in Roman Catholicism ,St Peter Basilica,see the Crypt of St Pope John Paul (BB,D) Transfer to the Hotel /overnight

Day 10 April 1, 2018 (Sun ) Rome

EASTER SUNDAY MASS, VATICAN SQUARE FOLLOWED BY PAPAL BLESSING Visit the Major Basilicas like St Mary Major,St. John Lateran, the Holy Stairs, St. Paul Outside the Wall, St. Peter’s in Chain, Santa Croce of Jerusalem, afternoon see Imperial Rome, and short visit to the Trevi Fountain on the way to the hotel (BB,D) Dinner in the hotel

Day 11 April 2, 2018 (Mon) Rome Free time in Rome ( BB,D)

Day 12 April 3, 2018 (Mon) Rome – USA

Transfer to the airport for our flight back to USA, End of our memorable Pilgrimage

Dateline USa

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

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OctObER 27-NOvEmbER 2, 2017

A

US defense chief hails PH victory in Marawi

President Rodrigo Duterte greets U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis who were among the dialogue partners who joined the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting at the ASEAN Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga on Tuesday, October 24. Also in photo are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go. Malacañang photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.

by AJPress UnITeD States Defense Secretary James Mattis on Monday, October 23, commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for liberating Marawi City from the Islamic State-inspired Maute group.

Mattis remarked that the Philippines’ victory has sent a “very strong message” to terrorists.

“One of the first things I’m going to do when I get there is commend the Philippine military for liberating Marawi from the terrorists,” the U.S. defense chief told reporters on his way to Manila to attend the 11th Association of Southeast Asian nations (Asean) Defense Ministers’ Meeting.

“It was a very tough fight as you know in southern Mindanao, And I think the Philippine military sends a very strong message to the terrorists,” he added. earlier on the same day, the Philippine Department of Defense (DnD) declared the Marawi

siege is now over, nearly five months since the Maute group launched an attack on May 23.

“After 154 days of siege in Marawi with Daesh-inspired Maute-ISIS group, after a week the commander-in-chief declared the liberation of Marawi City, we now announce the termination of combat operations in Marawi City,” DnD Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced.

“Daesh” is another acronym used to refer to the IS name in Arabic, but terrorists and their supporters considered its use an insult.

Lorenzana also lauded the killing of more than 800 Maute terrorists, including foreign fighters, and of its top leaders, which he said has prevented the spread of extremism in Asia.

“In crushing thus far the most serious attempt to export violent extremism and radicalism in the Philippines and in the region, we have contributed to preventing its spread in Asia,” Lorenzana said.

“While we submit that these

Young Fil-Am hiker and friend...

PAGE A1 t The bodies of 22-year-old Filipino-American hiker Joseph Orbeso and his Vietnamese-American companion Rachel nguyen, 20, were found on Sunday, October 15 at around 11:30 a.m. in the northern vicinity of the Maze Loop trail area of the park, from where their car was left. The pair reportedly went missing nearly three months ago.

On Friday, a release by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department Morongo Basin station said the autopsy found that “injuries consistent with a gunshot wound were located on both nguyen and Orbeso.” It added that detectives believe Orbeso shot nguyen before shooting himself.

Rachel nguyen’s uncle Son nguyen told The Desert Sun on Saturday, Oct. 21, “It was explained to us by the investigators on scene, with the circumstances and positioning of the bodies, that they believe this was a sympathetic murder-suicide.”

“Rachel possibly injured herself sliding down a cliff and Joseph went after her and took care of her,” Son nguyen added.

Based on conversations with the police, Mongo Ha Le, nguyen’s aunt, told the Los Angeles Times that nguyen had a head injury to which Orbeso “tried to save her the only way he could.”

Austin Young, who in a Facebook post described Orbeso as “the best friend I could ever ask for”, told the Orange County Register, “they had a choice of

a slow and painful death or a quick death. And they made the choice of a quick death.”

Officials said the gun found near the bodies was registered to Orbeso. Le said that Orbeso had the gun because he was a security guard and most probably brought it for protection.

The sheriff department’s release reported that the pair appeared to have been rationing their food and did not have water. Their bodies were found under a tree with clothing positioned to cover their lower extremities, and to protect from the sun.

Some of Orbeso’s clothes were found wrapped around nguyen, according to authorities. His T-shirt was said to have been wrapped around nguyen’s head like a bandage.

Sheriff’s department spokeswoman Cindy Bachman, confirmed initial reports of the bodies embracing each other, and said the bodies appeared interlocked when found.

Orbeso’s father, Gilbert Orbeso, described his son as “caring, thoughtful” and was “clearly taking care of her.”

According to the national Park Service (nPS), an investigation on why Orbeso shot nguyen is ongoing as of October 20.

The pair were last seen on July 27 and were thought to be missing on July 28 after they failed to checkout of their Airbnb in which they left their belongings. The owner of the

u PAGE A4

Filipino WWII Vets honored...

PAGE A2 t President’s call to fight for our country in the defining war of the 20thCentury. Those brave men, who bravely took up arms and risked life and limb on behalf of a country that was not yet their own, were heroes. It is a mark of a confident and exceptional nation to look back on its history and say we made a grievous error, but we recognize it and pledge never to let it happen again,” Sen Charles Schumer said. “I’m especially proud to be an American today as Congress rights a decades-old wrong and bestows the highest civilian honor on the Filipino veterans of the Second World War, enshrining in the history books their courage and sacrifice on behalf of a grateful nation.”

Caroline Burkhart, daughter of WWII veteran Thomas Burkhart, was one of the six veterans and next of kin called by Rep. Ryan to be recognized as he presented the Congressional Gold Medal to them.

Mr. Almeda represented the Philippine Commonwealth Army; Mr. Frank Francone, an American veteran, representing the Philippine Scouts; Mr. Dean Aquilino Delen, Filipino veteran representing Guerrilla units; Mrs. Alicia Benitze, next of kin of Filipino veteran; Mrs. Margrit Baltazar, next of kin of Filipino veteran and Mrs. Burkhart, next of kin of American veteran.

Community support “We have waited a long time to witness the well-deserved honor of presenting Filipino Veterans of World War II with the Congressional Gold Medal,” said John C. Yang, Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC President and executive Director. “It is fitting the ceremony occurs during Filipino American History Month in acknowledgment of the contributions and proud heritage of nearly four million Filipino Americans who call the United States home.”

“As we honor these veterans and their families today, we must remember to keep supporting their right to be reunited with family members through the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program.”

For Congressman Bobby Scott, what happened at Capitol Hill on Wednesday morning is a proud moment.

“As a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) and the only member of Congress of Filipino ancestry, I am proud to honor the invaluable service of our Filipino veterans who nobly served in World War II,” Scott said. “The contributions of our Filipino veterans have left a remarkable legacy on the history of the United States and the Philippines. We must continue to recognize and honor the sacrifice and dedication of these veterans.” n

tactical and strategic gains will not annihilate the ideology completely, we declare that this achievement is clear manifestation of how our regional cooperation can lead to decisive advance against the proliferation of terrorism in this part of the world,” he added.

Last week on Monday, October 16, Lorenzana confirmed the deaths of Maute group leader Omar Maute, and Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon. Hapilon was also the supposed anointed head of IS in Southeast Asia.

The following Tuesday, October 17, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte personally went to Marawi to declare the city’s liberation from terrorists.

In a statement, Malacañang thanked the U.S. government for extending its help to the Philippines in combating terrorism. It likewise expressed appreciation to the U.S. Defense chief for recognizing the Philippine military’s efforts to end the Marawi siege.

“We appreciate the message of U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, recognizing the valiant efforts of our troops in bringing to an end the Maute terrorist group’s siege of Marawi City,” Palace Spokesperson ernesto Abella said.

He then added, “The government is grateful for the U.S. government for helping us defeat the ambition of the Islamic State-affiliated group to establish a caliphate in our country by providing us with technical expertise, men and equipment that bolstered the capability of our military in our campaign against the Maute group.” n

ASIAN OBSTACLE COURSE LAUNCHING. Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) Secretary General Steve Hontiveros; Alberto Agra, president of Philippine Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF); former adventure racer Ian Adamson, also president of International Obstacle Racing Federation; and Kent Wong, representative of Obstacle Sport Federation Taiwan join hands during the launching of the 1st Asian Obstacle Course Race held at Solaire Hotel in Paranaque City on Tuesday, Oct. 24. A series of international events will be held January next year to put the Philippines in the map of obstacle sports events.

PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan

PAGE A1 t

As NorCal fires near containment...

the damage done and the more than 100,000 residents that have been affected.

Mainly affecting Wine Country, the devastating fires have burned more than 245,000 acres of land and have claimed the lives of at least 42 people, according to fire officials. Additionally, the fires have charred more than 8,400 structures, as of Monday, October 23.

That makes the weeks-long fires the deadliest and most destructive in the state’s modern history.

“The numbers are going to continue to increase,” said Robert Foxworthy, a spokesman for Cal Fire. “The reason the numbers are increasing is because our damage assessment teams are getting into the areas and finally getting an accurate count.”

Among the fatalities was Filipino-American caregiver Teresa Santos, 50, who was caring for 90-year-old Sally Lewis of napa.

According to a report from the Los Angeles Times, Santos worked from Sunday through Friday and when the fires neared

the home on Sunday, October 8, she refused to leave Lewis as the fires reached Lewis’ home in mid-October.

“She didn’t save herself, she stayed with my mother until the end,” Windermere Tirados, Lewis’s daughter, told the LA Times.

Santos lived with Lewis five days out of the week and has been working for her for about a year. Tirados described Santos as a very committed and “loyal” caregiver who was a “sweet quiet person and very loving.”

u PAGE A4

Dateline USa

A october 27-november 2, 2017 • neW YorK AnD neW JerSeY ASIAn JoUrnAL

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

US envoy denies CIA part of Duterte ouster plot

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

Young Filipino-American basketball players with the parents, coaches, and mentors prepare to play a half-time game during the Brooklyn Nets Filipino Heritage Night

One of the event organizers Mark Anthony Agbuya (Center, 2nd from right) with 2nd and 3rd generation Fil-Am Community members at the Filipino Heritage Night. Photos by Bel Molina

Filipino-Americans take over Barclays Center for Brooklyn Net’s Filipino Heritage Night NeW YORK – Filipino-Americans came in droves to the Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York, home court of the NBA Team Brooklyn Nets on Sunday, October 22.

The event held in commemoration of Filipino-American History Month featured Philippine performances and sports demonstrations as well as trivia games. Filipino law enforcement officers were likewise honored for their service.

Several groups of young Filipino and Fili-

pino-American basketball players were given an opportunity to play on the Brooklyn Nets court during halftime. The short game showcased the Filipinos’ innate love and passion for basketball.

One of the event organizer’s second generation Filipino-American Mark Anthony Agbuya, who also helped organize the equally successful Heritage Night in 2016, commented that this year’s event is made more significant in that it takes place while the entire Filipino-

American Community commemorate FilipinoAmerican History Month in October.

Mike Ang of Tanduay Rum’s US Team said that the company is happy to support the Filipino Heritage Night as one of the Brooklyn Nets Official sponsors and the official rhum of the Barclays Center.

A delegation from the Philippine Consulate General in New York led by Consul General Theresa Dizon-De Vega were in attendance during this event. n

Narco suspect tags Drilon...

PAGE A1 t slain Melvin Odicta Sr. Odicta allegedly controlled the narcotics trade in Iloilo City. He and his wife, Merriam, were shot dead in August 29 last year at the Caticlan Jetty Port in Aklan.

In his affidavit submitted to

La Carlota City prosecutor’s office in Negros Occidental on Wednesday, Oct. 18, Serenio accused Drilon and Roxas of partnering with Odicta to “takeover the drug trade in Negros by kicking out Berya-Camaria drug operations.”

“Being in power with close association to the PNP (Philippine National Police), it was easy for the Roxas-Drilon tandem to paralyze, and eventually overthrow the Berya-Camaria drug operations and wipe out these groups from operating in Negros

Island,” his affidavit read.

By taking out the Berya-Camaria taken out of play, Serenio said Drilon and Roxas could then “turn over” the drug operations in the region to Odicta.

Serenio likewise claimed that Drilon and Roxas were patrons of Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, who supposedly pro-

u PAGE A5

THe United States’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is not behind any destabilization plot against Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, a U.S. official said on Thursday, October 26.

“There is absolutely no effort by the CIA to undermine the Philippines leadership,” U.S. Ambassador Sung Kim told reporters in a media forum as he stressed that the relationship between the two countries remains strong. earlier this month, Duterte warned that he would not hesitate to set up a revolutionary government in order to avert the country from falling into chaos amid the alleged destabilization efforts by his political enemies.

The president accused the CIA as among the entities allegedly working on his ouster. At one point, Duterte also claimed that he obtained reports pointing the foreign intelligence agency has plans to eliminate him.

“They say that the CIA wanted me out of the government. I believe so but not really killing but they could have — they would have prepared another one,” he said in a speech.

The U.S. envoy, however, denied the allegations. Kim remarked that the U.S. government respects Duterte’s electoral victory last year.

“President Duterte won a very impressive election. We respect his election and we are in fact working very well together with his administration,” he added.

Kim further emphasized, “It is much important for us to focus on what we are doing with our relationship than public statements.”

Marawi role During the forum, the top diplomat also highlighted Washington’s crucial role in combating Islamic State (IS)-inspired terrorists in the Southern Philippines.

Kim cited American intelligence, urban warfare training, and drones as among the factors that contributed to the success of fully retaking the Marawi City from Maute rebels.

“We did play a very important role in supporting the (Philippines’) efforts to retake Marawi,” Kim said.

“We had P-3s (surveillance planes), Grey eagles (drones) providing crucial intelligence information to the Armed Forces of the Philippines so that they would be able to carry out operations necessary to retake Marawi,” he added.

Kim added that the U.S. forces provided guns, ammunition and rubber boats to the Philippine military, as well as “very useful technical advice,” particularly in the area of urban warfare.

The U.S. government likewise committed P750 million ($14.7 million) in aid to victims of the crisis and for rehabilitation of the city.

On Monday, October 23, the Philippine Department of Defense (DND) declared the Marawi siege is now over, five months since the Maute group launched an attack onMay 23. n

Young Fil-Am hiker and friend...

PAGE A3 t bed-and-breakfast, remembered that the couple mentioned hiking in Joshua Tree National Park, and called the police after the two had not come back. An extensive search was then initiated.

Orbeso’s phone last recorded their location inside the park at around 4 p.m. on July 27.

According to ModernHiker. com, the Maze Loop trail in which they were found is a moderate 6.5 mile round trip with an average completion time of four hours. Suggested times to visit are spring, fall, and winter.

Before the bodies were identified by the San Bernardino Sheriff Coroner’s office to which they were sent, Orbeso’s father, Gilbert, was among the ones who found the bodies along with the

Joshua Tree Search and Rescue (JOSAR) team.

The bodies were transferred to the coroner’s office on Monday, October 16 and were identified by the respective families as Joseph Orbeso and Rachel Nguyen, who were both from Orange County.

According to the news release by the NPS, a large-scale search for Orbeso and Nguyen was launched with over 250 searchers comprising of ground teams, dog teams, and aircraft.

“It’s been a journey,” said Gilbert Orbeso to the Desert Sun earlier this week. “I’m glad we have a conclusion to this journey. We’re just in a different recovery process now.”

Son Nguyen said, “We hold no grudges against Joseph or the Orbeso family.” (Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)

As NorCal fires near containment...

PAGE A3 t

“She was an angel sent to us definitely, to take care of my mom,” Tirados added.

According to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), approximately 13,500 Filipinos live in the affected areas of the Napa, Sonoma and Yuba counties.

The 4,200 Filipinos that live in the nearby Lake, Marin and Mendocino counties were also affected by the fires, which are expected to be fully contained by Wednesday, October 25, fire officials told reporters on Monday.

The City of Santa Rosa was one of the most heavily impacted areas of the Tubbs fire, especially residents of the ravaged Coffey Park. Vicious winds that formed little tornadoes completely incinerated more than 200 square miles of homes.

The Padilla family had lived in a single-story home in Coffey Park since 1989. Just two days before fire took over the neighborhood on October 9, Patricia and Jay Padilla and her two teenage daughters packed up their valuables (including their Australian shepherd named Pogi) and headed for San Francisco.

“We saw everyone on our street just hurrying to get the hell out so we decided that we probably should too,” daughter Ashley Padilla, 18, told the Asian Journal in a phone interview on Monday, October 23. “We were in the line of fire, literally. It was like night time when we packed all our cars, three of them, with stuff that we needed, like documents, family albums, heirlooms and our dog and drove to our tita’s house in Oakland.”

Padilla remembers seeing the view of the sky as she drove out of Santa Rosa. She recalls blood orange skies and hot gusts of wind that made her eyes water.

“It almost looked apocalyptic, like the rapture,” the recent high school graduate said. “I tried to remain calm because Pogi was driving with me and I didn’t want to freak him out.”

“Right now, we’re picking up the pieces. We’re all just glad we’re all okay and alive. It’s going to suck trying to like, arrange where we’re going to live, but as long as we’re all together it’s

going to be okay,” Padilla said.

“That’s what we all kind of remind ourselves when one of us begins to get upset. We’re just sticking together and supporting each other and reminding each other that we’re all okay.”

Another Santa Rosa family, the De Castros, also found themselves in the line of fire in the early hours of Sunday, October 8 when they were alerted about the fire by a neighbor, as previously reported by the Asian Journal.

Dr. Marlon De Castro and his wife Ina quickly packed up some clothes, photo albums and documents in the car and drove their two sons and dog to a friend’s home in San Francisco.

The family could not visit their home due to mandatory limits enforced by the city, but found out their home was one of the few that remained intact.

“While it will be a long time before their lives go back to normal, the De Castros are grateful they are safe, alive and that they can still go back to their home.

Other families have not been as fortunate,” Gel Santos-Relos wrote for the Asian Journal.

As of press time, 90 percent of the fire has been contained despite five large fires still raging in the Northern Bay Region.

Last week, Moody’s Analytics estimated that the Northern California fires “will be among the costliest wildfires on record for the U.S.” According to the California State Insurance Commission, the damage done will cost at least $1 billion, but officials say that the total cost of the damages is expected to rise in the coming weeks. Property and casualty insurers have already experienced record high catastrophe losses from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria as well as the devastating earthquakes in Mexico.

The wildfires began on October 8 and, in addition to the 42 declared dead, there are still 21 people missing in Sonoma County as of Monday.

Officials are still probing the cause of the fires, but Foxworthy said that it could “be weeks” before the investigation is complete and details will be released.

(Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

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

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OctObER 27-NOvEmbER 2, 2017

Dateline PhiliPPines

A

Duterte urges troops to remain loyal to Constitution amid martial law

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte called on the country’s security forces to remain loyal to the Constitution amid the implementation of martial law.

Duterte on Tuesday, October 24 hailed the military’s efforts in combating rebels in Marawi City but warned of terrorism and insurgency that continue to pose threats to public safety.

“We have made significant headway in ridding the country of the scourges of criminality, insurgency, terrorism and corruption because of your invaluable contributions and there could never be a task more ennobling than that,” the president said in a speech.

“I enjoin our troops to continue performing their duties well, especially as martial law remains in effect in Mindanao, and there are persisting threats of terror-

ism and insurgency,” he added.

Earlier this week, the Philippine government declared the Marawi siege over.

Considered as the longest conflict in the Philippines since World War II, more than 800 militants, 160 government troopers, and 40 civilians died nearly five months since the Islamic State (IS)-inspired Maute terrorist group attacked the city on May 23.

The attack prompted Duterte to impose martial law in the entire Mindanao, which is set to expire by the end of the year.

Duterte lauded the “valor and sacrifices” of the soldiers who were killed and wounded in Marawi as he reiterated his vow to take care of their families.

“Rest assured that the Philippines is committed to promote the welfare of all PAF personnel and their loved ones,” the president said.

“That you have left your fami-

lies and the comfort of your homes to serve the country is truly praiseworthy. Indeed, the Philippines and our people are indebted to you because of the sacrifices you have made every single day,” he added.

In a separate statement, Malacañang admitted that the IS terrorist group remains a global threat despite its defeat in Marawi.

“While we have defeated the Maute group here, it cannot be denied that IS remains a global threat,” Duterte’s spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

He further emphasized the importance of continuous cooperation with other countries in combating the threats posed by the terrorist groups.

“It is therefore necessary for us to continue our cooperation and alliance with our friends in the international community to halt the spread of IS menace,” Abella added. n

Sara Duterte launches coalition to counter destabilization efforts

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

PRESIDENTIAL daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara DuterteCarpio on Monday, October 23, launched a coalition that would fight the supposed ouster plot against his father, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

The pro-government coalition, named as “Tapang at Malasakit Alliance for the Philippines,” will serve as the umbrella organization of all her father’s supporters during the presidential campaign last year.

According to its official Facebook page, the coalition is “an alli-

ance of groups who believed in the president and trusted his vision of change for the Philippines.”

Groups listed under the Tapang at Malasakit Alliance for the Philippines include Duterte-Cayetano Socmed; DDS Global; Duterte Youth; Mindavote; The AmazPAGE A7

ASEAN UNITY. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana (center) leads the traditional ASEAN handshake of the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), in Clark Field, Pampanga, on Tuesday, Oct. 24. ADMM aims to promote regional peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation in defense and security within ASEAN and with its dialogue partners.

PNA photo by Joey O. Razon

DFA chief: PH to reject aid...

PAGE A1 t “So just because we will not take something that is with conditionalities, that doesn’t mean our people will be hurt,” he added.

Cayetano made the remarks days after the Philippine government announced that it would no longer accept grants from EU with conditions perceived to affect the country’s sovereignty.

Asked if the government would accept aid from EU for the victims of Marawi crisis, Cayetano said everyone was “free to help” as long as the assistance is not tied to any conditions.

“So the question should now be addressed to EU. Are they willing to give without conditionalities or if the conditionalities are there, are they willing to do

it through international organizations?” he said.

The European Commission recently pledged to provide €850,000, or about P49 million, in humanitarian aid for the victims and rehabilitation of Marawi City.

The DFA chief also disclosed he that recently had a “very frank and honest” meeting with EU officials.

During the meeting, Cayetano said the bloc gave an assurance it was not interfering in the country’s autonomy as he cited the Philippines’ concerns about statements issued by some European-led parliamentarians criticizing Duterte’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.

Cayetano likewise affirmed that the Philippines’ relation with EU remains “strong,” and that

the country remains committed to trade relations with foreign countries for mutual benefit.

“Well, it was a long meeting and of course nagkapaliwanagan about ito ang stand nila, hindi naman sila nakikialam (they made a clarification concerning their stand, they’re not interfering),” he said.

He went on to say, “We agreed on two things, one to keep talking. Number two, to look for the way forward. So hopefully kung maganda ang usapan ng (if talks went smooth between) EU and President Duterte then it’ll be a giant step forward but there are real issues that have to be resolved.”

Earlier this year, the Philippine government announced it would reject aids from the EU. But Economic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia later said the move to reject EU grants was “not a policy.” n

Narco suspect tags Drilon...

PAGE A4 t

tected the illegal drug operations of the Odicta.

In a statement, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II said the department would treat Serenio’s affidavit tagging Drilon and Roxas as a complaint.

He said “a preliminary investigation can be conducted since the affidavit could serve as a complaint.”

“If sa city prosecutor, parang UNITED VS ‘DESTAB’. Taguig City Mayor Ma. Laarni Cayetano, Philippine Economic Zone Authority chief Charito Plaza, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, lawyer Karen Jimeno, Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, and Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada raise their fists at the launching of the complaint na ‘yan (if it was filed ‘Tapang at Malasakit’ coalition on Monday, Oct. 23.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Roger Rañada with the city prosecutor, then it’s

like a complaint), then we would be duty bound to act on it,” Aguirre said in a news conference on Wednesday, October 25.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, October 21, Roxas dismissed Serenio’s affidavit as a “poor and laughable attempt at fake news.”

“I don’t know nor have I any dealings with Serenio nor Odicta; as in zero. I have been and am anti-illegal drugs and the record of arrests, confiscations and buy bust operations by the PNP during my time at DILG

(Department of Interior and Local Government) will show this,” Roxas said.

“I hear [President Rodrigo] Duterte is visiting Negros this weekend. This is an attempt by mga local KSP to get his attention and curry favor with him,” he added.

Duterte attended the Masskara Festival celebration on October 22 in Bacolod City.

Drilon, meanwhile, is still in the United Kingdom, and his camp has yet to release a comment on the issue. n

:8IG< ;@<D 8KK<EK@FE @DD@>I8K@FE C8NP<IJ C<>8C @DD@>I8K@FE `j X 9@> @JJL< k_\j\ [Xpj% D8EP `e fli Zfddle`kp E<<; pfli j\im`Z\j% K_\i\ Xi\ k_fljXe[j n_f dXp nXek kf \og\[`k\ k_\`i i\j`[\eZp fi glijl\ ]lcc Z`k`q\ej_`g Ylk [feËk befn _fn kf Y\^`e Xe[ n_\i\ kf ^f%

JK8E; FLK =IFD K?< G8:B% 8J@8E AFLIE8CËJ GIF=<JJ@FE8C J<IM@:<J ;@I<:KFIP# n`cc efn Y\ ilee`e^ n\\bcp# \m\ip =i`[Xp f] E\n Pfib& E\n A\ij\p <[`k`fe%

8AËj GJ; ZXe _\cg PFL i\XZ_ flk kf k_\d X]]fi[XYcp Xe[ \]]\Zk`m\cp%

:8CC PFLI 8::FLEK D8E8><I )() -,,$,+)8jb XYflk fli GIFDFK@FE8C @EKIF;L:KFIP G8:B8>< GI@:@E> n_`Z_ ilej pfli X[ n\\bcp ]fi dXo`dld \ogfjli\ Xk kilcp X]]fi[XYc\ iXk\j%

Fli gi`ek \[`k`fej ile `e kXe[\d n`k_ 8AËj Gi`ek <[`k`fe Fec`e\% Fec`e\1 _kkg1&&`jjll%Zfd&Xj`XeaflieXc[`^`kXc\[`k`fe

A6 OCTOBER 27-NOVEMBER 2, 2017 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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

FEATURES

OPINION

Healing process

IS it really over?

On Monday, Oct. 23, the Philippine Department of Defense (DND) formally announced the termination of the government’s combat operations in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. This development comes a week after President Rodrigo Duterte declared the liberation of the besieged city from the influence of terrorist groups.

It has been five months since government forces clashed with members of the Maute rebel group and other Islamic State-Inspired terrorist groups in Marawi City.

The conflict claimed the lives of 847 terrorists, 163 government troopers and 47 civilians, as of Monday. The crisis has also displaced 78,466 families or 359,680 residents, who are now raring to go back home.

The local government of Marawi City has begun conducting clearing operations within the city to prepare for the return of the displaced residents. Among the phases of operations being made are the retrieval of properties, restoration of governance, barangay mapping, profiling, restoration of power system water and facilities or utilities.

Just by looking at the destruction, the rehabilitation of the war-torn city may take three years or longer, according to Mayor Majul Usman Gandamra.

“Talagang sa laki ng pinsala ho ‘yung destruction talagang pag nakita mo I dont think matatapos natin within three years but at least may timeline (With the extent of damage of the destruction, if you see it, I don’t think we can finish

it within three years but at least there is a timeline), Gandamra told CNN Philippines.

The government has allocated “about P5 billion ($100 million)” for the support of evacuees, reconstruction of infrastructure and repair of bridges. The budget will be spent until the end of the year. For next year, another P10 billion ($200 million) would be pulled by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) from various government agencies for the city’s rehabilitation.

Since the expenses in the rehabilitation of Marawi was not anticipated, Lorenzana believes that P50 billion ($1 billion) is not enough to cover the complete restoration of Marawi City. He said that at least P100 billion ($2 billion) might be needed to rebuild the affected areas.

The extent of damage will only be determined once assessment teams deployed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) finish collating data on the damage and losses incurred in 24 barangays in Marawi City.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, who visited Marawi City last week, said everything in the battle area has been ren-

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

dered useless.

“I was there in ground zero, talagang wala ka nqng mapapakinabangan eh (everything there can no longer be of use). “You really have to bulldoze the entire area, the ground zero,” Andanar said.

Given the extent of the devastation and the number of people affected, the national government should now focus on rehabilitation and peace-building efforts. Operation “get Marawi City and its people get back on their feet” must now commence. (AJPress)

Trump to discuss human rights with Duterte: How will the Philippine president respond?

TRUMP and DUTERTE. They like The Fil-Am each other a lot. They only have accolades Perspective for each other, pretty much like Trump and Putin.

It’s a stark contrast GEL SANTOS-RELOS with the tense relationship Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had with Trump’s predecessor, Barack Obama, whom he cursed because the 44th president of the United States openly said he wished to discuss human rights principles and issue with the then newly elected leader

of the Philippines.

Obama canceled the meeting realizing that nothing productive will come out of their faceto-face encounter. This was not an isolated experience by a foreign leader who dared to question or criticize Duterte’s war on drugs.

The leaders of the European Union, who had also been vocal about their concerns regarding human rights violations and alleged extrajudicial killings in Duterte’s bloody war on drugs, had not

been spared from the Philippine president’s toxic rhetoric. EU envoys had even been asked by Duterte to leave the country and that he does not need the aid coming from the EU. The Philippine government’s records show that more than 3,451 “drug personalities” have been killed as they resisted arrest or fought against police during raids and apprehensions. Human rights advocates, however, claim that more than 13,000 people have been killed since Duterte took office in June 2016, and that many of those killed were denied due process of law, with some victimized by the corruption and abuses

of the police.

Despite these issues raised by human rights advocates around the world against Duterte’s “vigilante” approach to solving the drug menace in the Philippine, U.S. President Donald Trump not only defended the Philippine president, but even praised him in the way he has been governing the Philippines. Trump even invited his Philippine counterpart to the White House.

BUT WHAT HAPPENS now, with the White House announcement that a discussion about human rights is on Trump’s agenda when the two presidents meet for the first time in Manila

this November during Trump’s upcoming first trip to Asia as U.S. president?

Will Duterte cancel the meeting and curse Trump too? Or will he be open and accommodating to Trump who has defended and praised him when most of the leaders of the free world had been critical of him and his war on drugs?

ABANGAN! *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column 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

Trump cuts short summit presence

Postscript

FEDERICO D. PASCUAL JR. MANILA and Washington may have to do public relations damage control if, as reported, U.S. President Donald Trump skips the East Asia summit meeting in the Philippines of ASEAN leaders and several heads of government in mid-November.

In an article by columnist Josh Rogin, the Washington Post reported that Trump will be in Manila Nov. 12-13 and meet with President Rodrigo Duterte and other leaders, but will not attend the East Asia summit scheduled Nov. 13-14 in Clark Freeport in Pampanga.

Trump could head for home Nov. 14 and miss interacting with leaders of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and those of Russia, China, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, India, and South Korea.

Rogin said State Secretary Rex Tillerson may sit in for the President. That could accentuate Trump’s known low regard for multilateral forums. His absence could also be interpreted as demeaning a region increasingly falling under China’s sphere of influence.

In Manila, except for the fact that his detractors are expected to give negative significance to Trump’s cutting short his visit, Duterte need not worry too much about the American leader not tarrying in high-risk Manila.

If the stars would be in their proper places on Nov. 10, Duterte and Trump could still have a oneon-one in Vietnam, when they are scheduled to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. Their meeting again in

Manila could then be just a follow-up.

The opposition could capitalize on stories about Trump’s reportedly being advised to be careful not to be viewed as too chummy with Duterte, who has been assailed for alleged human rights violations staining his bloody drug war.

Human rights groups are set to gear up their advocacies and stage protests while ASEAN and other world leader — with the international press in full force — are in town.

But Duterte could try reaping plus points by parleying photos with the U.S. leader as a kind of “Good Housekeeping” seal, especially if Trump repeats his “good job” comment made in their last phone conversation where the drugs issue was mentioned.

China catches Duterte on rebound Trump’s abbreviating his visit could color perception of how he regards the firebrand Philippine leader who has declared his own pivot to the left toward communist China and Russia, two of the powers attending the Clark and Manila meetings.

Duterte’s infatuation with Beijing and Moscow grew unhampered late last year while the U.S. under a lameduck Democratic president did virtually nothing to catch up with the other suitors of Manila.

One interesting new focus of this courtship is Marawi City where the U.S. and China have been competing to show their noble intentions by contributing to the herculean rebuilding of the devastated Muslim community by the shore of Lanao Lake.

Although it has chipped in $15 million, the U.S. is under pressure to keep ahead in donating rehab funds and heavy equip-

Pres. Donald Trump

Photo from Whitehouse.gov

ment for Marawi. In other areas, China and Russia have also given military materiel, including munitions and sea craft, for the Philippine armed forces.

It is intriguing that days ago, the Philippines — long tied to a mutual defense treaty and related agreements with the U.S. — signed a security contract with Russia days before Trump’s visit.

U.S. Ambassador Sung Kim is doing his best (to the extent of even twitting like his President), but his Chinese counterpart Zhao Jianhua has had a head start, cultivating the goodwill of Duterte from the time the former Davao mayor won the May 2016 presidential election.

Zhao caught Duterte on the rebound as the latter was smarting from supposed slights by Ameri-

cans. The President was then publicly berating US Ambassador Philip Goldberg and threatening to curse then President Barack Obama to his face if their paths crossed.

The Philippines is the last stop in Trump’s five-nation, 12-day swing through the region that his predecessor Obama sought to embrace as he pivoted to Asia.

Trump has dropped that pivot idea.

Group backs revolutionary government As Clark prepared for the summit, media colleague Ding Cervantes reported from the Freeport that a group led by Bishop Nilo S. Tayag has launched a “Rebolusyong Duterte for a Revolutionary Government” movement.

The decision to start the movement was reportedly made Sun-

day in an assembly in Gerona, Tarlac, aimed, according to the group, to free Filipinos from the “bondage of repression by illustrados and their oligarch masters.”

The group’s statement urging President Duterte to declare a revolutionary government was signed by Tayag as “lead convenor and founding national chairman.” He claimed some “Filipino Guardians” were members. He was former head of the Marcostime Kabataang Makabayan.

Cervantes checked with Abel C. Pablo, the group’s press bureau chief, who said that Tayag was the same activist who figured prominently in the 1960’s as chairman of the Kabataang Makabayan.

The statement had the name of retired Gen. Danilo Lim, national

chairman of RAM/Guardians, among the signatories. Others were those of Gerona Councilor Ronjie Daquigan, identified as coordinator for Central and Northern Luzon, lawyer Rodel Manzanilla as chief for finance and logistics, and Pablo as press chief.

A number of times, Duterte had threatened to declare a revolutionary government to cut short his campaign for “pagbabago” (reform). His plan had been criticized as a shortcut to one-man rule.

The statement claimed: “More than 300 factions of the Filipino Guardians can only be unified through the leadership of Digong (Duterte) and through his guiding ideology as well as the Rebolusyong Duterte for Revolutionary Government.” (Philstar.com)

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

ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAL POLICIES ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board

Main Office: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 • (213) 481-0854 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com Northern California: 1799 Old Bayshore Hwy, Suite 136 Burlingame CA 94010 Tel.: (650) 616-4150 • Fax: (650) 239-9253

Manila Office: 2nd Floor Units D&E, Fort Palm Springs 30th Street, Cor. 1st Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Tel.: (632) 856-4921 • Fax: (632) 856-1661 New York and New Jersey: 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 Tel.: (212) 655-5426 • Fax (818) 502-0858 2500 Plaza S. Harborside Financial Center, Jersey City, NJ 07311 Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858

Las Vegas Sales Office: 3700 W. Desert Inn Road Las Vegas, NV 89102 Tel.: (702) 792-6678 • Fax: (702) 792-6879

CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President

ELIZABETH HILARIO SISON Chief Financial Officer MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor and Editor-in-Chief New York/New Jersey Asian Journal

Asian Journal Publications, Inc. (“AJPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publication by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AJPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AJPI to publish a Client’s Material. AJPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases.

Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applicable law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation.

Publication of a Client’s Material does not constitute an a greement to continue publication.

Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AJPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, causes of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AJPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material.

AJPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publication of a Client’s Material, AJPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being cancellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republication of the correct advertisement.

Under no circumstances shall Asian Publications, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind.

ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern California Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern California, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively.

Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome. Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions.

Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please call the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or the Las Vegas Sales Office at (702) 792-6678 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com

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

Dateline PhiliPPines

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • OctObER 27-NOvEmbER 2, 2017

Gabriela: Andanar’s EU remark a ‘distasteful, desperate’ diversion

by Gaea

Katreena Philstar.com

CabiCo

MANILA — Lawmakers condemned the sexual remarks made

by Communications Secretary Martin Andanar against members of the European Union, calling the Malacañang official “rude and unprofessional.”

In a statement, the Gabriela Women’s Party emphasized that excessive sex or lack thereof is irrelevant to the growing outrage over the spate of extrajudicial killings under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“Andanar’s response is at the very least a distasteful and desperate attempt to divert the issue using vulgarity to avoid accountability over the killings and rights violations under Duterte,” Gabriela said.

Akbayan party-list Rep. Tom Villarin said Andanar should apologize for his rude remarks and “clean up his mouth as well as his office which is in disarray.”

“It’s highly unbecoming of a Cabinet secretary in charge of official communications to degenerate into political debauchery.

But again the standards under the Duterte administration leaves nothing to the imagination in its vulgarity and sense of proportion,” Villarin said.

He added that Filipinos do not deserve to be represented in such debauchery and perversity.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar Malacañang photo

Diplomacy must always be practiced in dealing with other countries, Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano emphasized.

“Government officials are the face of the whole nation. Their actions reflect the Filipino culture.

Filipinos are known to be respectful and hospitable. Unfortunately, our present government officials are the very first ones showing the opposite,” he said.

Alejano noted that Andanar’s unprofessional remarks show that the current Cabinet officials and allies are taking Duterte as a model.

“I condemn not only the recent remarks of PCOO Secretary Andanar but all such statement and actions coming from government officials. We must all demand dignity in the office.

During a meeting in London

with overseas Filipino workers, Andanar said officials of the EU who criticize the chief executive for the spate of killings in the country just have too much sex.

“Yung maiingay na pala-iyot, ang problema sa kanila hanggang ingay lang. Wala naman silang napatunayan (Those who keep yapping are those who have a lot of sex, the problem with them is that they are all talk),” Andanar said.

“Yung prime ministers and presidents of other countries are all supportive of President Duterte.

‘Yung mga nasa baba lang ang maiingay dahil nga kulang sila sa ‘iyot’ (The prime ministers and the presidents of other countries are all supportive of President Duterte.

Those who rank below are all talk, maybe because they lack sex),” Andanar added, using the Visayan term for sex.

The presidential communications chief’s remarks were caught on video by a member of the audience.

Duterte has repeatedly launched tirades against the EU, even making a wordplay “EU de puta” to pertain the group of world leaders, a play with a Spanish cuss word, “hijo de puta or son of a bitch.”

He has also accused the European parliamentary of meddling with the country’s politics, and even issuing an order against EU diplomats to leave the country in 24 hours. n

EU mulls P6-billion grant for Marawi rehab by ian

niColas CiGaral Philstar.com

THE Philippine government’s decision to refuse international aid that comes with conditions is not yet an official policy, the European Union’s ambassador here said Thursday as he announced a fresh grant from the bloc for the rehabilitation of Marawi City.

Asked if talks are ongoing to convince the Philippines to “change” its policy on accepting aid, EU Ambassador to Manila Franz Jessen said he believes the government has yet to decide on the matter with finality.

He also said he had a “very good” and “very intense” meeting last Tuesday with Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. “I’m not aware that a final decision has been taken. So there’s

European Union Ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen.

Philstar.com file photo

nothing to change at this point in time,” Jessen told reporters.

“What we do is continue with our development program as it has been agreed previously,” he added.

Jessen then disclosed that the bloc might give as much as 100

million euros (P6 billion) for the rehabilitation of battle-scarred Marawi, adding that job creation is the “major focus” of the grant as well as other peace initiatives in Mindanao.

While the assistance is still being discussed by both officials of the EU and the Philippines, Jessen said he expects the planned aid to proceed if things go well.

“We look at this as not just reconstruction but also to give people hope and permanent jobs in the region, in the area,” Jessen said.

“I expect that the misunderstandings that we’ve had in the past will be ironed out as we move forward,” he added.

Europe’s offer to help rebuild Marawi came after the government announced it would reject conditional assistance from international donors to discourage them from meddling in Manila’s

A

OPENING OF HIBLA IN LONDON. Senator Loren Legarda, herself donning an embroidered piña blouse, presenting detailed embroidery work put into Filipino clothing and textiles. Legarda, patron of the Hibla gallery at the National Museum of the Philippines, led the opening of the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Travelling Exhibition at the Philippine Embassy in London.

Senate photo

Sara Duterte launches coalition...

PAGE A5 t

ing Duterte Ninjas-Japan; Rody Duterte Solid Group; PDP Laban Volunteers for President Duterte; Friends of Rody Duterte; and Duterte Alliance Hongkong.

Also included were Sisterhood for Duterte; Vivian Velez Group; Hugpong Federal; Alyansang Duterte Bongbong; Doctors for Duterte; DDS Bloggers; Pwersa Pilipino Patungo Sa Pagbabago; United Builders Missions of the Philippines, Inc.; Republic Defenders for Peace and Unity, among others.

“We [will] stand together, firm in our decision to fight for our country, vowing to resist interests and forces out to topple a democratically chosen leader of the nation. We will guard our freedom from the traitors of the Philippines and those who betray economic stability and government authority,” it said.

“We will guard our freedom from the traitors of the Philippines and those who betray economic stability and government authority,” the group added.

Earlier, the president warned that he would not hesitate to set

up a revolutionary government in order to avert the country from falling into chaos amid the alleged destabilization efforts by his political enemies.

The president accused the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the elite, the terrorists, and even the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), as among the entities allegedly working on his ouster.

He further claimed that bank deposits of Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th, one of his staunch critics, could have been used to fund attempts to unseat him.

While Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla affirmed that there are no destabilization threats against the Duterte administration, Sara insisted that her father’s warning of a destabilization plot should not be ignored.

“All of his claims of destabilization are from intelligence reports and reliable sources from inside the offices of the people identified with the opposition,” said the Davao City mayor.

No interest in national elections

In a media briefing after the launch of the new pro-government coalition in Taguig City, Mayor Duterte belied rumors that she intends to run for national a position at the upcoming midterms elections in 2019.

Denying that the coalition was a “show of force” and a “political party” in preparation for the next elections, she disclosed that instead of running for a national position, she had plans of running as representative of Davao City’s first district.

“Di ko naman kailangan mga taga-Luzon para sa kandidatura ko sa Davao (I don’t need the votes of the people in Luzon for my candidacy in Davao),” she said.

The Davao City mayor likewise denied that the Tapang at Malasakit Alliance for the Philippines was created to match cause-oriented opposition group “Tindig Pilipinas,” a multi-sector coalition that calls for an end to the alleged spate of killings related to President Duterte’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.

“No, in fact we’re inviting them to join in turning the country to a better one,” she said.

internal affairs, and as part of the administration’s “independent foreign policy.”

The EU has been a strong critic of President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, which has taken the lives of more than 3,900 suspected drug personalities.

Citing police data and Duterte’s remarks “encouraging” cops to take “aggressive approach” on drug suspects, EU this week released a report flagging the worsening “respect for the right to life,

due process and the rule of law” in the Philippines during the second half of 2016.

In the same interview, Jessen said the hefty grant for Marawi would be a “government-to-government” agreement.

He also took the occasion to point out that in accepting external assistance, the aid-giving body and the recipient country must enter into a contract that would ensure the donation would be spent correctly.

“Anybody would have an agreement where you’re offering €50 million or €55 million—of course you have a document behind that.

And in that document, there are so to speak conditions and one of them is it has to be done in a transparent and corruption-free manner,” Jessen explained.

Europe had been funding about 100 community projects across the country, which is drawn from the European Development Fund.

A october 27-november 2, 2017 • neW YorK AnD neW JerSeY ASIAn JoUrnAL

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

OCTOBER 27-NOVEMBER 2, 2017

(L-R) Gerard Butler and director Dean Devlin on the set of Warner Bros. Picturesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Skydanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suspense thriller â&#x20AC;&#x153;Geostorm.â&#x20AC;?

Cover photos courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

people events arts culture entertainment

Â&#x2020;Ă&#x153;ÂŻÂ&#x2020;Ă&#x2026;ÂşĂ&#x160;ĂĽĂ&#x2122;Ă&#x2026;Â&#x2020;ÂżĂ&#x2013;ĂĽÂ&#x2019;¿¯Â&#x201C;Â&#x2020;â¯Ă&#x160;Ă&#x2026;Ă&#x153;

Ç&#x2020;Â&#x2020;Ă&#x153;ÂŻÂ&#x2020;Ă&#x2026;ÂşĂ&#x160;ĂĽĂ&#x2122;Ă&#x2026;Â&#x2020;ÂżÂ&#x201C;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x201E;

Ç&#x2020;Â&#x2020;Ă&#x153;ÂŻÂ&#x2020;Ă&#x2026;ÂşĂ&#x160;ĂĽĂ&#x2122;Ă&#x2026;Â&#x2020;Âż

XXX BTJBOKPVSOBM DPN -PT "OHFMFT Ç&#x2021; -BT 7FHBT Ç&#x2021; 0SBOHF $PVOUZ *OMBOE &NQJSF Ç&#x2021; /PSUIFSO $BMJGPSOJB Ç&#x2021; /FX :PSL /FX +FSTFZ

Andy Garcia (standing far left), ED HARRIS (4th from right, seated at table) and director Dean Devlin (3nd from right, standing) on the set of Warner Bros. Picturesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Skydanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suspense thriller â&#x20AC;&#x153;Geostorm.â&#x20AC;?

2

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 27, 20 1 7

Geostorm: Fil-Am Dean Devlin’s Directorial Debut

by MOMAR

FIL-AM Hollywood honcho Dean Devlin has stepped a bit outside his comfort zone and made his feature film directorial debut with the suspense sci-fi thriller Geostorm, starring an international array of Hollywood stars led by Gerard Butler, Jim Sturgess, Abbie Cornish, Andy Garcia and Ed Harris, among others.

While Geostorm is still in theaters, Devlin in postproduction on his second feature directorial effort, “Bad Samaritan,” starring David Tennant, and is also in post-production on the fourth season of the TNT hit series “The Librarians,” which premiered in 2014 as the most watched cable debut of that year.

Over the last twenty years, Devlin has co-written and produced some of the most successful feature films of all time. He co-wrote and produced “Stargate,”“Godzilla,” and “Independence Day,” which grossed more than $800 million worldwide, and recently produced the sequel “Independence Day: Resurgence.”

For Geostorm, Devlin also wears a couple of other hats as he also wrote the script with Paul Guyot and he is also co-producing it.

“When my daughter was about 6 years old, she started learning about climate change and she very naively asked me, ‘Daddy, why can’t we just build a

G. VISAYA/AJPress

machine that fixes this?’,” Devlin said in an interview. “I tried to engage her in discussing geoengineering and the complexities of how hard it is to accomplish and the moral questions on what we should be doing of what we should not be doing, I realized that the best way to explain it to her is through a bedtime story.”

That question sparked all these ideas in his mind about what would happen if we did build just such a machine. Then more questions came, one after the other. And what if something went horribly wrong? What if we wait too long to deal with extreme climate change? What if we don’t? What if we could create this amazing machine to control the weather around the entire planet?

And what would we do if it went rogue?”

Essentially, the concept of a geostorm, in the context of the film, is that the planet is being protected by a massive array of satellites and if the satellites go rogue, they can actually start a storm instead of prevent them.

And if the satellites systematically fail, that storm can continue to grow and it can cover the entire planet.

As writer/producer/director Devlin imagines a world in which global political cooperation and a vast network of weathercontrolling satellites installed in space have rendered natural disasters a thing of the past.

Gerard Butler as Jake Lawson in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Skydance’s suspense thriller Photo by Ben Rothstein “Geostorm.”

“At the heart of Geostorm is a political thriller, it’s a whodunit.

In the film, someone is murdered and there is a big effort to figure out who did it and why. The consequences of this political thriller, however is a disaster on a worldwide scale,” Devlin added.

Asked about the advantages (or disadvantages) of his multiple roles in the film, Devlin paused and replied, “If you’ve written it, you know about the story you want to tell. The challenge is you have to disrespect the script sometimes and throw the script away and face the challenges of what’s happening on the set at that moment, divorce yourself.”

“Tom Hanks once said that the reason it is difficult to make a great movie is that you have to make a great movie three times, you have to write one, shoot one and edit one. All three of those experiences have to be great. The biggest challenge of doing all those three challenges is being able to separate each section, the advantage is you have a lot of information.”

Devlin also heaped praises on his cast, an international group of actors meant to represent the global scale of geostorms.

One of the first discussions with respect to casting the film, Devlin said, centered on the fact that global warming is a global concern.

“We wanted to make a movie that would speak to the whole

world, with a truly international cast to reflect it,” he said.

Among the film’s players are actors from all over, including Scottish-born Gerard Butler, the UK’s Jim Sturgess, Australian Abbie Cornish, Mexico’s Eugenio Derbez, Romanian Alexandra Maria Lara, Germany’s Zazie Beetz, Nigerian Adepero Oduye, Egypt’s Amr Waked, Irishborn Robert Sheehan, Cuban Andy Garcia, and the USA’s Ed Harris, Talitha Bateman and Daniel Wu, the latter being a first-generation American of Shanghainese descent.

“We got lucky with the casting.

When you set out to do a movie, you have a wish list of people you want in the movie and most of the time, you don’t get them,” he said laughing. “This cast was just a blessing in every sense.”

“I have always wanted to work with Ed Harris my whole career and suddenly to be on set with him, I was like a stammering little fan because he is an icon. Gerald Butler is a storm, he literally is a storm of energy. It is a giant blessing on the

Daniel Wu as Cheng Long in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Skydance’s suspense thriller Photos courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures “Geostorm,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

Jim Sturgess, Abbie Cornish and director Dean Devlin on the set of Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Skydance’s suspense thriller “Geostorm,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

Photo by Ben Rothstein

set, because it is tiring making a movie, the hours are long and it is exhausting and then this storm comes to set and he is just full of energy.”

From the cast to the set, the film’s producers made sure that everything was credible, including their recreation of the International Space Station, completed by NASA in 2000 after 12 years of construction in orbit, utilizing parts manufactured on Earth and shuttled to the site, which today maintains a distance of about 250 miles above the planet as it circles it approximately 15 times each day.

“We wanted to have a set that had so many twists and turns in it that you can get lost inside of it. It was a remarkable set and it always blows my mind on movies when you see these amazing sets and you think in a few weeks, they’d be gone. I wish I had a bigger backyard so I can just say ‘Put that in my house!’,” Devlin shared.

Devlin added, “When the guys from NASA came in early

on to look at the artwork and to check out our designs for the sets, I had my heart in my throat.

It was important to me that we have their stamp of approval, and I trust Kirk’s work implicitly, but when they told us how close we were to reality, I was floored nonetheless!”

The whole of the ISS sets for “Geostorm” were accommodated by five adjoining soundstages at New Orleans’ Big Easy Studios, situated on a portion of an actual NASA manufacturing plant on the city’s eastside, the Michoud Assembly Facility.

As someone who grew up watching fun sci-fi films, Devlin said he hopes the film gets to resonate with fans who are looking for a great time at the movies.

“The audience can expect a big, wild, crazy fun adventure. This is a throwback to the kind of big popcorn movies that I fell in love with that I wanted to make, and have made,” he said. “But beyond that, there is an underlying message in what is otherwise a big, giant popcorn adventure.”

(L-r

Gerard Butler and Alexandra Maria Lara as Ute Fassbinder in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Skydance’s suspense thriller “Geostorm,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

Jericho Rosales fights for excellence in acting

by MARIDOL RANOA-BISMARK Philstar.com

THERE comes a time in a person’s life when one reaches a crossroad and questions the path he is taking.

Jericho Rosales reached that crossroad when he sat down and asked himself if making money from his work as an actor is all there is in life.

“Is this it? Then I got scared.

I quit (acting). I started writing songs. I started to sing. Nagbanda ako. Nasagot ko ‘yung tanong. Then I go back to the question of what’s next,” Jericho admitted at the press con of his upcoming ABS-CBN teleserye “Love Will Lead You Back.”

He knows everyone must work to earn a living. But for seasoned actors like Jericho who have proven themselves, there is got to be more to work than earning money. There Is got to be a “why” and a “where” for everything he does.

The project, he said, must

Photos Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

Kim Chiu retraces her Chinese heritage in new horror flick

portrayal. The movie surpassed the P100-million mark in the box-office.

Excited to return to the genre SHE may have started her that launched her movie career career in 2006 as the bubbly with her latest starrer, the 27-yearFilipino-Chinese teenager on “Pinoy old actress promises the five-year Big Brother” to become the noted wait for scare fans will be worth it. dramatic actress that she is today, Reunion with Roño but somewhere in between her rise Reuniting with Roño—who to stardom, Kim Chui learned to also directed Chiu in the ensemble scare her audience very well. cast of “Etiquette for Mistresses”— Chiu’s very first movie was in TV’s “Chinita Princess” finally takes fact a horror flick. She essayed the on the titular role of Star Cinema’s Jericho Rosales stars with Sam Milby, Yam Concepcion and Yen Santos in the new soap, “Love a role of a high schooler haunted “Ghost Bride.”

Will Lead You Back.”

ABS-CBN photo by the ghost of a nun in 2008’s As the title suggests, her role as P68 million-box office hit, “Shake, a dutiful Filipino-Chinese daughter in “Love Will Lead You Back” excite him. For instance, his Rattle and Roll 10,” via the episode, in Mayen agrees to be a traditional because he enjoys depicting the character in a teleserye or film “Classroom.” ghost bride to help her struggling early stages of marriage in the must challenge him to attack the Four years later, Chiu starred family. teleserye, where he stars with role in a way he has not done in her sophomore horror, “The According to co-writer Sam Milby, Yam Concepcion and before.

Healing, ” with no less than multiCharlson Ong, the concept of a Yen Santos.

“I must always make it fresh,” awarded actress Vilma Santos in ghost bride—as well as a ghost Himself happily married for he said. the lead. Working under revered groom—is rooted from the three years to fashion blogger So he does not take just any director Chito Roño for the first Chinese belief that everyone has and TV host Kim Jones, Jericho role that comes along. He would to have a family before they die in knows what facing the challenges time, Chui earned praises for her rather wait for a good project. order to avoid becoming hungry of marriage is all about. He knows role a demented patient, holding Jericho accepted the role ghosts in the spirit life.

Continued on Page 5 her own across Santos’ excellent of a married furniture designer

by CHRISTINA ALPAD ManilaTimes.net

Kim Chiu’s latest film, “The Ghost Bride” Star Cinema photo

“When someone from a family dies without a surviving husband or wife, the Chinese seek a ghost marriage where they look for a life partner for the deceased to carry out specific duties,” Ong explained at the movie’s grand press Continued on Page 5

Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ On October 12, 2017, several passengers aboard a domestic Delta flight from San Francisco to new York, filed a lawsuit against US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), alleging a violation of their Fourth Amendment rights against illegal search and seizure.

According to the allegations/ claims in that lawsuit, on February 22, 2017 CBP stopped and searched every passenger on board that flight (including U.S. citizens) before allowing them to deplane. CBP officers stood at the exit door, and would not let passengers off until they produced identification documents. This was despite them already showing ID to TSA before boarding the flight in San Francisco.

As the plane was pulling up to the gate, there was an announcement from the flight crew that all passengers would have to show identification documents to the CBP officers.

When the doors opened, two uniform CBP officers were standing at the doorway, forcing passengers to line up inside and

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAGlAyA TIGER’S spin doctors went on overdrive. He looked like a contrite man being led to the gallows. His apology seemed heartfelt. Cynical pundits begged to differ, however, arguing that the stunt is commercial in nature, a pathetic attempt to save a lucrative brand and image.

That was Tiger’s winter of discontent. After 7 years, it may be that he has learned something from his very public humiliation. If he truly learns from this, he will find redemption, even forgiveness, but it won’t be easy. He acknowledges that he has strayed from his core spiritual values and that his

CBP ‘inspects’ domestic flight from SFO to JFK delaying their exit as CBP officers stopped each passenger.

According to CBP, this action was taken at the request and direction of ICE, and was a routine matter consistent with their policy. The passengers who filed the lawsuit are frequent flyers on domestic airline flights, and are afraid they will again be subjected to similar treatment, which they considered to be an illegal search and seizure, in violation of their Fourth Amendment rights.

This case raises concerns because ordinarily when a person flies domestically (or within the U.S.), no visa is required, and a person does not need to be “inspected” by CBP. In order to board a flight, a person shows the TSA officers some form of government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or the picture page of their passport.

However, passengers are usually not “inspected” by CBP, unless the person is coming into the U.S. from a foreign country.

Many people who are out of status and travel domestically normally do not encounter CBP. It remains to be seen what will happen with this lawsuit, and whether CBP will continue

An Asian Journal Magazine

3

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 27, 20 1 7

inspecting domestic flights. In the meantime, you should know your rights and what to do if DHS should ever knock on your door or be waiting for you upon arrival to your destination on a domestic flight. I have already published articles on what to do if DHS comes knocking at your door. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and 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 attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Follow us on Facebook.com/GurfinkelLaw and Twitter @GurfinkelLaw Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN

Fraud Waiver Denial turned around to Approval with No Fraud Waiver Required, on this Sunday’s CITIZEN PINOY! Wilma entered the U.S. on a C-1 “transit” visa, on her way to work in Guantanamo, Cuba. She remained in the U.S., married a U.S. citizen, and filed for adjustment of status. A “consultant” gave her hope and said he would take care of Wilma’s papers. Unfortunately, the consultant altered Wilma’s documents and put down false information (that she entered on a visitor’s visa), to cover up that she actually entered on a C-1 transit visa. Her case ended up being denied because of fraud!

Wilma then consulted with the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel, who took over the case, and filed an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) in Washington, DC. Atty Gurfinkel convinced them that Wilma committed no fraud, and was eligible for a green card, despite her entry on a transit visa. Watch how Atty. Gurfinkel’s determination won the day for Wilma, when her name was cleared, and she got her green card with no fraud waiver required, on an all-new episode of CITIZEN PINOY – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

Was she really guilty of fraud? Find out Tales of entitlement the truth about Wilma on ‘Citizen Pinoy’ FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES

(Advertising Supplement)

(Part 2 of 2)

WILMA had been separated from her daughter for 12 long years. They missed celebrating birthdays, Christmases, graduations and other holidays and milestones together. All Wilma wanted was to give her daughter, Arlene, a better life. Little did she know it was going to be a very long and painful process.

Wilma entered the U.S. in Miami, transiting to the Philippines from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. She decided to stay in the U.S. and soon became out of status. She then fell in love with and married exempt from accountability and a U.S. citizen, who petitioned her. She filed for karma. They are in for a rude adjustment of status, so she could get her green awakening. It is just a matter of card in the U.S. time when they discover that they They hired a consultant to handle the too have feet of clay and in time, paperwork, because he was “cheaper than an will return to dust. attorney.”

Besides, he promised he would take care Tiger thought he was a god. of all the paperwork.

All they needed to do was His handlers made sure he bought sign the forms. However, without their knowledge, their paid spinmeister’s myth. I guess that is what being a celebrity the consultant altered Wilma’s documents and put Continued on Page 4 down false information. The USCIS discovered this

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

— Tiger Woods

arrogance and pure sense of entitlement led him to believe that he was not subject to the same rules as ordinary mortals.

Some celebrities in the entertainment business and the sports world as well as powerful politicians and influence peddlers feel the same way. Fame, power and a fat bank account seem to make them feel that they are

fraud and denied her adjustment of status. Her fraud waiver was also denied.

Wilma had been watching “Citizen Pinoy” and saw that leading U.S. immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel had successfully handled many complicated cases. She decided to retain their services, as her future in the U.S. was at stake.

Atty. Gurfinkel filed an appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office in Washington, DC (AAO), arguing Wilma committed no fraud, but instead was a victim of the consultant’s fraud. The AAO agreed, finding Wilma committed no fraud, and no fraud waiver was needed. Case approved!

Watch this brand-new episode of “Citizen PInoy” this Sunday, and witness how mother and daughter will finally get their chance to be together.

“Citizen Pinoy” airs this Sunday at 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

(Advertising Supplement)

4

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 27, 20 1 7

On the PEP Front

Travelogue: Western Europe escapade

People, Events, Places

Richard Gutierrez and girlfriend Sarah Lahbati with son Zion who helped his mom burst the balloon that revealed the gender of the couple’s second child at a party at Discovery Primea.

Photos from Instagram/@sarahlahbati

richard & Sarah expecting another baby boy

BoBBy T. yalong (Part 2 of 3) AfTEr merely 4 days of non-stop road trip that was unambiguously physically arduous while gradually declining our vitality (not to mention thinning our wallets), our group’s committed enthusiasm to further explore what this side of western Europe has in store for us indubitably kept us agile and on our high spirits.

October 5 & 6, from Portugal to Santiago de Compostela (Spain) After a couple of days walking, getting off and on the bus, pulling and pushing huge suitcases and constantly unpacking and packing them were more than enough to debilitate even the most robust traveler but no amount of fatigue, languor, or listlessness could thwart the resolute focus and unwavering wanderlust raging acutely within us.

And so, as early as 8:00 in the morning we’re already on the road again towards north…this time Santiago de Compostela-bound, one of the top pilgrimage destinations like rome and Jerusalem, even way back during the Middle Ages.

We were amused by the vast landscapes of verdant hills, sloppy mountain ranges, and stunning countryside, sleepy yet beguiling villages, and quaint towns along the way. We passed by Santarem, one of the last Moorish bastions in Portugal; Coimbra, a riverfront city in Central Portugal and home to a UNESCOlisted 13th century old University

The old town of Santiago de Compostela

EMPLOYMENT

by Ricky Lo Philstar.com

A stone carving of Ernest Hemingway along the sidewalk of Burgos’ Ayuntamiento

The main Altar piece of the Burgos Cathedral

of Coimbra; and the gorgeous city of Porto, a coastal city known for its vibrant riverfront and home to the world-renown Porto wine.

It was in a roadside cafeteria

A tunnel of trees abound in Burgos Streets

Colorful Porto residences by the waterfront

The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela

The Burgos Cathedral

in Porto (Portugal) where we had our initial stop-over to relieve and pep up. Noticeably, no matter how simple or big the cafeterias were along the rest areas, they serve the best snacks and meals or it must be just because we were actually starving so everything came delectable and appetizing.

Back on the bus, we crossed the 19th century International Bridge and the Minho river, the longest river in Galicia, Spain (340 kilometers) and the natural border between Portugal and Spain…and had our timepieces adjusted by an hour advance.

How we marveled at Tui’s breathtaking scenery. A far-flung town in Galicia (Spain) in the province of Pontevedra, Tui, located on the left bank of the Minho river facing the Portuguese town of Valencia, is the last 100-kilometer spot to the Camino de Santiago

making it a popular starting point for pilgrims on foot or bike. Also, we passed along Padron, famous for its green pepper and the old town of Pontevedra with its cobbled streets that seemingly wanted us to explore.

The enthralling region of Galicia in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula greeted our sight with much relief after a two-hour travel and had a full stop at Vigo, a two-thousand-year-old modern and populated Galician city with incomparable beaches and where avant-garde architecture always blends with the sea and its seafarers.

At Aromas restaurant and Bar, a modest but engaging eatery located at #9 rua da Laxe, we feasted on fresh mussels, squids, and three kinds of meat…all prepared and cooked to perfection by its amiable owner Carmen Suarez Gonzales. Our Continued on Page 6

EMPLOYMENT

SCHOOL

EVEN after she and son Zion burst the balloon that confirmed her and fiancé richard Gutierrez’s second child is a boy, Sarah Lahbati still thought that it would be a girl.

“Blame” it on Alexa Uichico, wife of richard’s brother Elvis, who was the first to learn about the baby’s gender from Dr. Teresa Henson, her and Sarah’s OB-Gyne.

Until the “gender reveal” party held last Sunday, Oct. 22, at Discovery Primea in Makati City, Alexa kept the “secret” that she had shared with Dr. Henson who very gladly “conspired” with Alexa. Even Elvis didn’t know, and neither did ruffa.

You know how ruffa is…she couldn’t keep a secret. remember how, after Sarah gave birth to first child Zion in April 2013 in Switzerland (where Sarah’s parents are based), ruffa kept hinting at it even as the whole Gutierrez family kept mum until, as per the contract stated, the big reveal would be done on the family show “It Takes Gutz To Be A Gutierrez” (ITGTBAG) on E! Channel.

“Ate ruffa would ask me, ‘You know what the gender is?’ And I

would tell her, ‘Yeah, but I’m not telling you.”

All the while, Sarah was trying to “catch” Alexa.

“Every time she asked me, I would say, ‘She’s gonna be so cute!’

Then, Sarah would ask again, ‘Girl, bakit mo sinasabi?’ I pretended na I was making a slip of the tongue.

She didn’t suspect na drama ko lang ‘yon.”

Now into her fourth month of pregnancy, Sarah was convinced that she was having a girl so at home, she would practice taking care of a daughter with Alexa and Elvis’ kids Aria and Ezra.

Incidentally, Annabelle rama, the family matriarch, was visibly absent from the party. The guests wondered if the reason was the presence of ruffa’s foreigner boyfriend Jordan Mouyal whom Annabelle openly disliked.

“Tita Annabelle said she was not feeling well,” said the Gutierrez family Pr Jun Lalin. “So she stayed home and watched richard’s (ABSCBN) TV series ‘La Luna Sangre’ on the network’s iWantTV.” By the way, Sarah and richard are engaged but they haven’t decided when they would get married.

Tales of entitlement From Page 3 does to you. He took liberties with what he felt were fringe benefits of a fabulously rich and famous life. Before him still lies a long and tortuous road. Is this epic lesson in humility doing its job? Only he knows for sure.

With no possibility for parole, Amy Bishop will live her life in jail.

There is still time for Tiger to find redemption. Both have caused their families extreme sorrow and indescribable collateral damage to everyone affected by their actions.

PSYCHIC

Both were egocentric. They believed the universe revolved around them. Tiger is the lucky one.

He got a pass and a chance for a midcourse correction and perhaps, one chance to write a good sequel with a happy ending. It could be that he has some good karmic points stacked from a past life, that is, if the idea of karma and reincarnation holds true in human life. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS EXCEPT for infectious, congenital diseases, and rarer maladies, the most common major illnesses today are caused by four main risk factors, for which I have coined the acronym: TABA, which happens to be the Filipino word for fat, for easy remembrance.

However, in this context, I am not relating it to weight or BMI (Body Mass Index).

T is for Tobacco, A for Alcohol, B for Bad diet, and the second A, for Activity deficit or absence of exercise.

This acronym itself, TABA, when used to mean fat or overweight, is also a significant factor, since obesity impacts our health negatively, catapulting our risk for major ailments, like hypertension (High Blood Pressure), arthritis, Type 2 Diabetes, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and cancer.

Even the English word, FAT, could be an applicable acronym: F for Food (quality and quantity), A for Alcohol abuse, T for tobacco use or exposure, and we could add “E,” for Exercise deficit, and make it FATE. This also spells the prognosis (fate) of those individuals with an unhealthy lifestyle, which most often means higher morbidity and mortality (more illnesses and shorter life).

Genes vs. lifestyle While we know that our genes are also a risk factor, studies have shown that a healthy lifestyle could outplay genetic predisposition, enabling siblings of parents, who are both diabetic and hypertensive, who smoke, drink excessively, eat unhealthy diet, and do not exercise, to escape diabetes and hypertension simply by living a healthy lifestyle, starting from their teen years.

It is clear that children are not doomed to their elders’ fates, provided they take the healthier path. But, if they are a copycat of their parents’ unhealthy behaviors and bad habits, obviously, they will fall victims to major illnesses as well.

To paraphrase Einstein, we cannot do the exact same things or actions repeatedly and expect a different result.

Killer carbohydrates When it comes to diet, carbs (rice, bread, sugary desserts, soft drinks, which I call “liquid candy,” other sweets) are food items we must minimize to maintain our weight and good health. Rice contributes to high triglyceride level, obesity, and increased risk for diabetes, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer, and overall morbidity and mortality rates.

Repeat: Soft drinks as a whole, regular or diet, cola or uncola, caffeinated or not, all toxic to our

Causes of major illnesses body, especially to children. They extremely increase the risk for metabolic illnesses.

Sixty percent of the world’s diabetic population is Asian. Asians have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes compared to those with European ancestry. More than 6.1 million Filipinos have type 2 diabetes. Our staple food, rice, appears to be the major culprit, not to mention the lack of exercise.

The Filipinos (even those with normal weight) have a disproportionately high incidence of type 2 diabetes, with 6 percent of its population afflicted with type 2 diabetes. Saudi Arabia has the highest, 20.2 percent, followed by Kuwait, 17 percent, Lebanon, 14.5 percent, Singapore, 12.3 percent, China, 12 percent, United Arab Emirates, 10 percent, and the USA, 9.4 percent. The lowest, Maldives, at 3.8 percent.

Globally, an estimated 1.6 million deaths were attributed to diabetes and its complications in 2015. In the USA alone, about 30.3 million people have type 2 diabetes (23.1 million diagnosed and an estimated 7.2 million (23.8 percent) undiagnosed. About 84.1 million (33.9 percent) have pre-diabetes, or the so-called borderline diabetes.

More than 6.1 million Filipinos are diabetics and about 8 million are undiagnosed.

Hypertension – a “time bomb” Asians, particularly Filipinos, consume an overdose of salt each day. We tend to grab the salt shaker, or add salty condiments, even before we taste the food before us.

As a result, about 10 million Filipinos have high blood pressure and 20 percent are pre-hypertensive. The Department of Health says, about 6 million are undiagnosed and unaware they have high blood pressure, and are a “walking time bomb.”

Worldwide, high blood pressure kills 7.5 million each year, and 1.5 billion suffer from its complications, like coronary heart disease, heart failure, and stroke. In the USA, 75 million of adults (one in three, or 33 percent) have hypertension, killing about 1,200 a day. This disease costs the nation $48.6 billion dollars annually. In the Philippines, about 200,000 die each year from complications of hypertension.

In the United States, one person is diagnosed with a stroke every 40 seconds. This dreaded and debilitating illness is so common it victimizes more than 2,000 individuals each day and killing about 133,000 each year. Luckily about 80 percent of stroke is preventable.

Less salt is best Salt consumption significantly affects individuals with hypertension. The current

recommendation is no more than 2300 mg (one teaspoon) of salt (sodium chloride) a day.

The average intake of 3400 mg is way above what is healthy.

The American Heart Association is even suggesting 1500 mg a day (3/4 of a teaspoon) a day.

The total should include all use for cooking, in condiments, and what is in processed or canned goods, which are loaded with salt preservative. Reducing our salt intake could reduce the number of hypertensives by 11 million, in the USA alone. It would, indeed, be best to get rid of salt shakers.

In the United States, one person is diagnosed with a stroke every 40 seconds. This dreaded and debilitating illness is so common it victimizes more than 2,000 individuals each day and killing about 133,000 each year. Not to mention kidney failure, heart attack, and cancer.

Discipline and sacrifices Good health, freedom from illnesses, and longevity are not free.

To achieve them, we must be preemptive and pro-active early, and religiously work for them, by arming ourselves with a proven scientific strategy, discipline, compliance, determination, and a lot of personal sacrifices.

Here are some tips to greatly reduce the risk of having hypertension, diabetes, stroke, heart attack, Alzheimer’s, and cancer, basically by living a healthy lifestyle or making necessary lifestyle changes, following the acronym TABA or FATE as suggested above: Food - low-carb, fish, vegetables, nuts, fruits, minimal or no red meat Alcohol - extreme moderation, not more than 2 glasses of wine or beer Tobacco - total abstinence and avoid second-hand smoke Exercise - brisk walking, tae-bo, swimming, biking, etc. 30 minutes daily.

When it comes to health, our fate is significantly in our hands. The choice is ours: fight or surrender.

The crucial question is: Are you prepared to do personal sacrifices to prevent illnesses and achieve a healthier life and greater longevity? *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

Jericho Rosales fights...

From Page 2

what great love — the theme of the teleserye — is.

Most of all, he values his work, and does not consider it as just another soap to add to his list of TV projects. That is the reason why he is still around, 20 years after he first stepped foot in showbiz.

“You have to evolve. A lot of actors have this bad habit of saying ‘Soap lang yan.’ I hate it.

Some directors also say ‘Soap lang yan.’ Six years into my career, nang dumating ang TFC (The Filipino Channel), every time we travel, someone in a small town in New Zealand, and a Filipino family somewhere around the world would thank me and say almost

Billing and titles no longer matter to him. What matters, he said, is what you do when you in tears that our shows are good. are in the zone, what viewers and I find a purpose in what I do,” he moviegoers see in you on the big pointed out. or small screen.

Jericho realized he has a That is why his hunger to play responsibility to keep on doing his best and never get tired doing so. different roles remains as strong He thinks it is this passion that as ever.

“After this (“Love Will Lead makes his home network ABS-CBN You Back”), in the next few years, assign new projects to him.

I want to do action drama, action “I value my work. I don’t get comedy, and a psychological tired studying,” he explained. thriller. I’m a thinking actor, but Jericho admitted American for the last two decades, it’s been and Korean actors are good. explosive emotions, and a heart.

This observation pushes him I’d like to play more quiet roles to do even better, and fight for that are exciting,” he revealed. excellence in his craft.

Jericho’s journey as an actor “We’re competent. May hitsura who loves his craft continues. And naman tayo. I’m just a proud Filipino actor. I want to go global,” chances are, we will be seeing more of him in years to come. he beamed.

Kim Chiu retraces her Chinese...

From Page 2 conference in Binondo, considered Manila’s China Town.

Ong added that the tradition was prevalent before the Chinese Communism Revolution in 1912, eventually fading away.

Chinese heritage Interestingly, doing the movie enabled Chiu to retrace her Chinese heritage when she found out that an ancestor had been a ghost bride during her lifetime.

“When my grandmother learned the storyline of the movie, she told me me that her late cousin was a ghost bride. She detailed that ghost brides dedicate their lives to the dead to whom they were married off—they pray for them twice a week, offer incense every day, and are present in every event for the deceased. In exchange for their freedom, ghost brides are paid a huge amount of money,” the actress thoroughly explained.

“So my grandmother’s cousin, for her service, made her family rich. Up to this day, they’re enjoying the life she bequeathed them,” Chiu continued.

But of course, Roño, being the creative mind that he is, does not only highlight the culture of a ghost bride. He explained, “The main concept here is an arranged marriage but I wanted to give the theme a twist that what if the ghost bride’s deceased husband was not ‘normal’? I thought it to be good material for something supernatural.”

As such Chui’s supernatural miseries begin when she tries to cut off ties with her ghost husband.

Hand-picked To make his latest project possible, Rono, dubbed the “Master of Horror Films,” admitted he handpicked Chiu for the role because of her several factors.

“Mayen fits Kim to a tee because of her heritage and age.

Kids these days are so modern that they don’t totally submit to tradition, and I think Kim is in an age zone where they have different perspectives already,” explained the director.

With a stamp of approval from Roño and her pair of previous box office hits in the genre, Chiu is now being talked about as the “Princess of Horror,” with many others opining she has already taken the place of “Queen of Horror” Kris Aquino, who ruled the genre via “Feng Shui” and “Sukob,” also directed by Roño.

Humble as ever, Chiu refused the comparison and instead thanked her home network for giving her this first solo movie.

“Horror lang, walang queen,” Chiu remarked in jest. “But seriously, I am just thankful to Star Cinema for giving me a solo movie and with Direk Chito Rono pa. I am very honored, wala na akong hihilingin pa sa movie na ito,” Chiu ended.

5

An Asian Journal Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O C TO B E R 27, 20 1 7

Calendar of Events across

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS O C TO B E R 26 -29

2nd annual Los Angeles Philippine International Film Festival in Carson, CA You are invited to the 2nd annual Los Angeles Philippine International Film Festival (LAPIFF) from October 26 to 29 at the SouthBay Pavilion Cinemark Theatre in Carson, CA. LAPIFF is an organization devoted to the advancement, development and showcase of Filipino filmmakers/artists around the world through film, providing the global community of entertainment professionals and film goers with consistent annual screening events and workshops. LAPIFF provides charitable scholarships and a forum where Filipino filmmakers/ artists can be recognized for their gifts, have open discussions about their movies and connect with industry professionals for understanding on production, distribution, representation and acquirement. Cinemark is located at 20700 South Avalon Boulevard #285, Carson, CA 90746. For more information and schedule, please visit http://www.lapiff.org/.

O C TO B E R 27

Filipino-American celebration in Las Vegas, NV To commemorate the month of October being Filipino-American History Month, the Filipino-American Chamber of Greater Nevada (FACCGN) invites you to a tandem event with a business/social networking mixer with a musical performance of Philippine music on Friday, October 27 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Aldo Endiquez and the Swing Band takes center stage at the Event Mixer with a rendition of nostalgic Filipino songs to start the night with.

A dance event happens right after with HOT MANILA NIGHTS top-billed by the 360 Band sizzling with more Filipino music to enjoy and dance with. Please come and celebrate with us! The event will be held at Lucky Dragon Hotel & Casino at 300 West Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89102. To register, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/filipino-americanheritage-celebration-tickets-39131964760.

FACC-GLA’s Halloween Dance Party in Canoga Park, CA FACC-GLA’s Halloween Dance Party in Canoga Park, CA The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce - Greater Los Angeles (FACC - GLA) invites members and guests to its Halloween Dance Party on Friday, October 27 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Best Western Canoga Park Hotel. Come in with your scariest attire as there will be special gifts for the best costume attire. Food & drinks will be included. Tickets are limited and entry will only be allowed for those who paid online or through check on or before Tuesday, October 24. Payment can be made through the website www.filamchambergla.org. Strictly NO payment will be accepted at the door.

O C TO B E R 28

3rd annual Larry Itliong Day parade & festival in Los Angeles Join the Larry Itliong Day Committee (LIDC) in honoring the legacy of Filipino American Labor Leader Larry Itliong on Saturday, October 28. There will be a parade followed by a festival with cultural music, dance performances, food vendors, art exhibits, health screenings and various vendors. Parade starts at 9 a.m. with a light breakfast, opening ceremony and line-up at 8 a.m. at Unidad Park (1648 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026). The festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Columban Church at 125 Loma Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90026. There will be film screenings of “Delano Manongs” by Marissa Aroy at the church at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. For more information on sponsorships, parade registration, exhibitor opportunities, and volunteering, please email larryitliongdayLA@gmail.com.

PHII presents Tribute 2017: Recognition ceremony and dinner dance The Philippine Heritage Institute International celebrates its 28th anniversary with its annual recognition ceremony and dinner dance on Saturday, October 28, 6:30 p.m. to midnight, at the Pasadena Hilton, 168 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101 -- 19th Tribute to Outstanding Filipino American Nurses and 11th President’s Award: ‘Profiles in Services, Pillars of Community.’ Cost is $65; attire, formal. PHII’s annual tribute is in answer to the White House Millennium Council Initiative from then Pres. Bill Clinton, who came with his wife Hillary to Los Angeles in January 1998. They created the Council in August 1997, with the theme ‘Honor the Past, Imagine the Future’ and traveled across the United States to promote its objectives -- an agenda with 21 ‘Ways to Commemorate the Millennium.’ “Mrs. Clinton gave a speech, stirring and inspirational,” said the late Mrs. Armada. In 1999, PHII became a partner to the White House Millennium Council selecting the ‘Millennium Recognition Awards’ to pay tribute to outstanding individuals whose contributions have enhanced the quality of life in the community. PHII seeks to improve the quality of life affecting Filipino American communities through research, education and recognition with the youth as its main focus. The foundation sponsors a youth congress annually with featured speakers. For more information, contact President Josie E. De Jesus (714) 272-0300; or Executive Director Anna A. Chickey, M.D. (562) 900-0379 (payments can be mailed to Dr. Chickey, daughter of Mrs. Armada, at 2032 Redfield St., Fullerton, CA 92833); or Email Lydia V. Solis at lvsolis@ aol.com.

Philippine Heritage Arts and Culture Celebration in Glendale, CA Join the Filipino-American Business Association of Glendale (FABAG), Glendale LibraryArts and Culture and Alexis Louise Quiza Foundation (ALQ) on Saturday, October 28 from 5:30 p.m. at the Glendale Central Library (222 E. Harvard St.) for the “Philippine Heritage Arts and Culture Celebration.” This event is OPEN TO ALL and is FREE admission. It will be a wonderful evening showcasing folk dances by Malaya Fil-Am Dance Arts, a Filipinana-inspired creation fashion show by designer Carl Andrada, and music and songs by Holy Family Filipino Chorale, Ethel and Clarita Alejo, Jennifer Kumiyama and the INTROVOYS... and more. Meet&greet and food sampling will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., after which an exciting program will start until 8:30 p.m. Bring your family and friends! The Office of the Philippine Consulate, Legislative Offices, City Officials, GCC Board, GUSD Board and other organizations were also invited. For further info, please contact Marlene Cagatao at (818) 450-9704 or Edith Fuentes at (818) 736-1911.

N OV E M B E R 4

3rd annual Larry Itliong Day parade & festival in Los Angeles Catch the Hollywood premiere screening of the award-winning Filipino indie film, “1st Semester” on Wednesday, November 8. “1st Semester” is a Filipino coming-of-age comedy movie about a young boy who is sent to college by his mother with their entire clan but goes home immediately after experiencing separation anxiety. It explores a boy’s rite of passage to manhood and a mother’s strong will and determination to uphold the best for her family. “1st Semester” stars Allan Paule, Darwin Yu and award-winning actress Lotlot de Leon. It is written and directed by Dexter Paglinawan Hemedez and Allan Michael Ibanez.

The Hollywood Premiere will be held on Wednesday, November 8 at the American Film Institute (AFI), 2021 N. Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA. Showtimes are at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Come and meet the writers and directors of this internationally-acclaimed film. Parking is free For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please email 1stSemAFI@gmail. com.

N OV E M B E R 1 1

Diva 2 Diva concert in Pasadena, CA The Philippines’ Pop Diva, Kuh Ledesma, and the Divine Diva, Zsa Zsa Padilla, are back in Southern California with DIVA 2 DIVA on Saturday, November 11! They will be joined with comediennes Nanette Inventor and Mitch Valdez. The show will begin at 7 p.m. at the “PazNaz” First Church of the Nazarene (3700 E. Sierra Madre Blvd, Pasadena, California).

For tickets, you may purchase them online at diva2diva2.eventbrite.com or you may call Henry at (818) 612 4500 for more details.

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

An Asian Journal Magazine

6

Former Supreme Court Chief Justice & Knights of Rizal head visits US Northeast

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O c TO b E R 27, 20 1 7

(L-R) Atty. Hu Xinyu from New Jersey, Global Chinese Time reporter, on-site 48” TV winner, VP Teddy Chow and the host.

99 Ranch Market New Jersey draws winners for its Grand Opening Sweepstakes cards etc. to share the happiness with customers and community.

The lucky draw event had a grand opening at the Edison branch store on Oct. 7th with performance on the event drawing much praise from the customers.

Lawyer Hu Xinyu from New Jersey was invited for scrutinizing the balloting and notarization. Representatives of Manufacturer JFC, ITO EN, Ltd., Lee Kum Kee and Calpico were also present. Vice President Teddy Chow of the Marketing Department of 99 Ranch Market was also a participant.

The activity had people Teddy Chow, Vice President, 99 Ranch Market singing and dancing around as Marketing Dept. draws the winner. the special lucky draw portion THE sweepstakes event in between gave out gift bags, held by 99 Ranch Market baking pan and HDTV, surprising has successfully come to an end. customers one after another.

The lucky draw event was The super big prize, the 2017 for reciprocating New Jersey Toyota RAV4 sports car, went customers’ generous support and to Xin. J., who got a call on the care with a rich variety of prizes spot to hear the great news. 99 including the brand new 2017 Ranch Market will give paper Toyota RAV4 sports car, HDTV， notification to the other lucky travel coupons, Ranch Market gift winners who can go to accept

their prizes at branch stores of Edison and Jersey City.

99 Ranch Market is committed to maintaining its market-leading position by providing a one-stop shopping convenience to customers. As it celebrates a successful past and looks toward a promising future, 99 Ranch Market continues to serve customers with quality merchandise and professional services.

LeEco, Wenjing, Zojirushi, Lee Kum Kee and some social media are major sponsors of the event.

The result of the sweepstakes will be published in the local newspapers and announced on 99 Ranch Market’s website at: www.99ranch.com. For more detailed information about the event, please visit your nearest 99 Ranch Market.

Edison store: 561 U.S 1, Edison, NJ 08817 Phone Number: 732-819-8889 Jersey City store: 420 Grand Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302 Phone number: 201-536-8899 (Advertising Supplement)

ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com.

And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event.

To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice.

The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.

NEW YORK – Knights of Rizal Supreme Commander and former Chief Justice of the Philippine Supreme Court Reynato S. Puno held a series of events with members of the Order of the Knights of Rizal in the US Northeast.

Among the highlights of the Supreme Commander’s visit were several speeches on the need for the Philippines to adopt Federalism as a new form of government as well as Knighting events, elevation to the next degree of qualified members, and conferment of awards for distinguished service to the Knights of Rizal.

At a Forum on Federalism in the Philippines sponsored by the Knights of Rizal chapters of Morris County and Long Island held at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center on October 20, former Chief Justice Puno outlined the advantages of using Federalism as a new governance framework for the Philippines. He relayed his recent discussions with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on the critical work that needs to be addressed in ensuring lasting peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the Philippines. He likewise shared his views on how Federalism as a form of government could be the long-awaited response to the issues which continue to confront the Philippines such as poverty, peace and order, illegal drugs, an end to secessionist movements, anti-terrorism efforts, the communist insurgency, and

Knights of Rizal Supreme Commander and former Philippine Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno

Supreme Commander Puno with Consul Kerwin Tate, Regional Commander Francis Sison and members of the Knights of Rizal and Ladies for Rizal conduct a wreath-laying ceremony at a monument to Rizal in New Jersey

overall development of the country.

A talk on Federalism in the U.S. was likewise given by Knight of Rizal member Atty. Ernest Ianetti.

The remarks were followed by an open forum with questions ranging from the maturity of the Philippine political system as well as the pros and cons of the Federal system.

For the remainder of his visit, Mr. Puno also addressed other chapters of the Knights of Rizal in New Jersey, presided over wreathlaying ceremonies at monuments of Philippine National Hero Jose P. Rizal in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Jersey City.

He likewise presided over a special ceremony for knighting and elevation of members of the

Knights of Rizal and conferred special honors to Knights from different states. Among the Knights elevated to the next degree was Consul Arman Talbo of the Philippine Consulate General in New York.

Supreme Commander Puno also conferred the highest rank of the Knights of Rizal — the Knight Grand Cross of Rizal (KGCR) on Juan Castro of St. Louis, Missouri and Judge Victor Sison of New Jersey at ceremonies held in Elizabeth, New Jersey on 22 October 2017 at an event organized by the Knights of Rizal under the leadership of US Regional Commander Francis Sison. The ceremony was witnessed

by Consul General Theresa DizonDe Vega.

Consul General Theresa Dizon-De Vega welcomes guests to a Knights of Rizal Forum on Federalism with a Keynote Address by Supreme Commander Puno

Travelogue: Western Europe...

From Page 4

hearty meal was capped with a slice of tiramisu and a cup of house blend Spanish coffee.

We went hunting for rare but reasonably priced souvenir items around nearby shops and stalls… and even dared to explore the ladder street behind the main thoroughfare for some exceptional finds only to find out that we were the only ones late for boarding.

It took us another 90 kilometers (56 miles) or approximately an hour and twenty minutes to finally reach Santiago de Compostela, the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region and known as the culminating point of pilgrims and burial site of the Biblical apostle St. James, the Great.

After checking in at the Gran Hotel Santiago de Compostela (along Avenida Mestre Mateo) and a brief respite, our tourist guide, Lucia, gave us an extensive tour of the famous cathedral and its historic vicinity. With the immense influx of tourists and pilgrims souvenir shops, eateries, bars, and hotels unsurprisingly will thrive in the area.

Despite the Baroque façade (the Obradoiro Façade), the present cathedral is predominantly Romanesque. Made of granite, it is flanked by huge towers and embellished with statues of St. James depicting him not only as a fisherman, a saint and gospel preacher but more as a pilgrim with staff, broad hat, and a scallop shell badge. The main altar of the almost thousand-year-old cathedral is an impressive blend of Gothic simplicity and 18th century Churrigueresque exuberance.

The Holy Mass in the Cathedral is highlighted by the swinging of the giant incense burner (Botafumeiro) which hang from the center nave of the altar and manually operated by at least 6 people, usually sacristans. Myth had it that the mega-sized incense burner came into being after a huge crowd of pilgrims packed the church and created an abhorrently obnoxious odor from their body sweat and unwashed clothes after weeks of travelling on foot…thus, the idea of creating a gigantic incense burner to exterminate the fetid odor and detestable stench.

Hundreds and thousands of St. James’ devotees annually participate in the Camino, a pilgrimage to the shrine with the most popular route is the Camino Frances which starts from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela that normally takes about 30 to 35 days on foot. One has to cover at least 23 to 27 kilometers (14 – 16 miles) a day to be able to finish on time.

Those who have successfully completed the travel are handed a certificate called “Compostela.”

We had the opportunity to experience such during our second

Had a taste of Vigo City from the kitchen of Carmen Suarez Gonzales

The enterprising Ladder Street of Vigo

day in Santiago. Our guide for the day, Maria, took us up to the Monte de Gozo, or simply Mount of Joy, a pilgrimage penultimate destination site atop a hill overlooking the city and the Cathedral’s three spires.

It took us more than 3 hours to cover the 5-kilometer walk down to the city. Although tired and gasping for breath with panting pulses yet we couldn’t complain. The distance we walked was nothing compared with those who came all the way from France relentlessly sauntering and strolling on foot for weeks with backpacks and walking sticks or staffs.

Saturday, October 7 Burgos, the historic capital of old Castile It was already Fall but the lush vegetation along the country side and mountain slopes remain as verdant and effervescent as midSpring...seemingly uninfluenced by the season’s change while an endless row of rugged terrain support the valley’s base giving the scenery a more vivid contrast. A bifurcated highway directed us to another grueling 7-hour travel from Santiago to Burgos, a provincial capital in Spain’s autonomous community of Castile and Leon.

Our group arrived in Burgos at 3:42 PM (Spain Time) after giving us time to rest twice…that was after every two hours. We were billeted at H.Q. La Galeria (Carretara Burgos –Aguilar, Km 4), our new residence for two days.

As usual, a brief rest was all that it took for us to be invigorated then raring to take the road again. Carlotta, our new tour guide, brought us to the Basilica and oriented us about the Plaza

Mejor and the Ayudamiento establishments around the area.

Outstanding for its elegance and harmony of its architecture, the 13th century Cathedral-Basilica is one of the finest examples of Spanish Gothic arts. The Cathedral of St. Mary, which official name is Santa Iglesia Cathedral Basilica Metropolitana de Santa Maria de Burgos, was the only Spanish cathedral designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cathedrals of Salamanca, Santiago de Compostela, Avila, Cordova, Toledo, and Cuenca are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites but they were recognized together with the historic districts (where) they were located in but the Burgos Cathedral was accredited independent of its surroundings.

Aside from the numerous priceless century-old relics and images the Cathedral, which was constructed in 1221 and was completed in 1567, boasts of an impressively large, picturesquestyle choir stalls intricately carved in walnut which can hold 400 singers, the tomb of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar (popularly known as El Cid, a Castilian nobleman and 11th century military leader in Medieval Spain) and his wife, Jimena, 16 chapels, and a capilla mayor dominated by a 16th century altar piece.

Dinner was served at 7:30 and we retired early afterwards in preparation for the next day’s arduous expedition --- to Lourdes in France.

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

An Asian Journal Magazine

7

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY O c TO b E R 27, 20 1 7

ASeAn Women’s Circle donates bazaar proceeds to American Red Cross in DC Isabel Granada

Philstar.com photo

Chuckie Dreyfus gives update on Isabel Granada’s condition AS of 10:20 a.m. of Thursday, Oct. 26, actress Isabel Granada is “stable,” according to the latest post of her former love team partner, Chuckie Dreyfus.

Isabel, who is reportedly in comatose after suddenly collapsing during a fan meetand-greet in Qatar on Tuesday, Oct. 24, now has “okay” vital signs, said Chuckie on Thursday.

The actress and marketing director of company Star Net was reportedly diagnosed to have had six cardiac arrests, internal hemorrhage and brain aneurysm.

Now that the actress is reportedly on stable condition, “they are praying for her to just wake up,” said Chuckie.

“Please continue prayers.

Nothing is impossible,” Chuckie pleaded.

Isabel and her husband are in Qatar as the actress was invited to speak at the Philippine Trade and Tourism Conference – Qatar on October 20 in Shangri-La Hotel Doha.

To clear rumors, even from an another actress that tweeted “RIP” that has since been deleted, Isabel’s husband released a statement on Wednesday about the actress’ real whereabouts.

Likewise, Chuckie asked people to stop spreading false or unverified information about his good friend, who is said to be also the godmother of his child.

(Deni Rose Bernardo/Philstar.com)

Filipina is 2nd runner-up at Miss Grand International 2017

THE Philippines’ bet, Elizabeth Clenci, finished as second runnerup in this year’s Miss Grand International pageant held in Vietnam.

As one of those in the top 10, Clenci shared her platform on peace.

According to her, peace is “one that is more significant than any other and that holds dearly to my heart. But we know the horrors of war and that many died fighting it and precisely why so few are willing to fight for peace. Today, I stand here knowing that it is my responsibility to fight for peace and to strive for peace in this world through love, compassion, understanding, and education. Tonight, I stand here will these women behind me, spreading a message of peace. I’m here to remind you all as a Philippines peace ambassador that this is your responsibility too. This is our responsibility today, tomorrow, and for the generations to come,” she said.

She further strengthened this statement with her answer to the final top five Question and Answer portion, wherein the question for all candidates was: “If you have to issue a law to punish criminals of war and violence, how would you punish these people and why?”

Clenci replied: “They say a nation is judged not by the criminals and the crimes that they commit, but how the nation punishes them. If I were to create a law, it will be in line with jailment (sic) is to implement rehabilitation and mental rehabilitation. Because character is such a complex phenomenon, but we cannot judge someone’s character based on the crimes that they commit. If we punish somebody just as equally as the crimes that they have committed, then what does that say about us? I would implement better rehabilitation. Thank you.”

Her speech and Q&A answer was highly commended by Filipinos

Elizabeth Clenci is Miss Grand International 2017 2nd runner-up.

Photo from Instagram/@mselizabethclenci

in social media since it coincides with the recently concluded war against rebels in Marawi and touches on current issues like the Philippine government’s war on drugs, human rights issues and even the current discussion on mental health.

Besides her wit and beauty, Clenci stunned in her revealing yet sophisticated metallic gold and pink long gown, prompting netizens to use #ClassyClenci in describing her on Twitter.

Though Clenci lost the title to Miss Peru, Filipinos are still proud that she is the only Asian to have landed in the top 5. She was also at the top 10 in Best in Swimsuit and National Costume, wherein she donned a costume inspired by a Mindanao tribal princess, another allusion to the war and the call for peace in Marawi.

Netizens also applauded the pageant’s Filipino hosts, singeractor Xian Lim and 2016 Miss Grand International first runner-up Nicole Cordoves, for their polished presentation of the winners and the whole program. (Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/Philstar.com)

Scarlet Snow Belo dons Miss Philippines costume for UN Day WITH her beauty and wealth, Scarlet Snow Belo could choose to have a grand costume of any country tailor-made for her.

But for United Nations Day this year, the social media star daughter of celebrity doctors Vicki Belo-Kho and Hayden Kho Jr. chose to stick to her roots as a proud Filipina.

In an Instagram post Tuesday, Scarlet Snow is seen wearing a baby pink terno with floral embroidery and a matching headband. The caption read: “Mommy’s dream for me is to be a dermatologist. Daddy’s is for me to become the head of the United Nations. But me, I only want God’s dream for me because I’m sure that would be the best. I’m glad they agree.”

In an earlier post, Scarlet Snow made a plea to save the seas: “Big people, can you please please take care of the seas so that when I and my other baby friends grow up we can still see real corals and fishies?”

In another post, she can be seen playing stop dance with daddy

Scarlet Snow Belo in a United Nations Day costume.

Photo from Instagram/Scarlet Snow Belo

Hayden and ate Cristalle.

Surely, if all people would only be as positive as Scarlet Snow, the world would become a better place.

(Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/ Philstar.com)

(L-R) Madame Soumaly Sayavongs of Lao PDR Embassy; Madame Datin Rafiah Arif of Brunei Embassy; American Red Cross National Capital Region Chief Development Officer Mr. Geoff DeLizzio; American Red Cross Chief Executive Officer National Capital Region, Ms. Linda Mathes; Madame Reshanty Bowoleksono of the Indonesian Embassy; Madame Sovanntevy Run of the Cambodian Embassy; and Madame Kay Thi Kyi of Myanmar Embassy at the ASEAN Women’s Circle – Washington, D.C. turnover ceremony held at the American Red Cross National Capital Region on October 25.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – ASEAN Women’s Circle – Washington, D.C. (AWC-DC) donated part of the proceeds of the recently held AWC-DC Charity Bazaar to the American Red Cross in a simple turnover ceremony held at the latter’s National Capital Region office in Fairfax, Virginia, on Wednesday, October 25.

Leading the ASEAN ladies are AWC-DC President Madame Reshanty Bowoleksono of the Indonesian Embassy, AWCDC Vice President Madame Sovanntevy Run of the Cambodian Embassy, Madame Kay Thi Kyi of Myanmar Embassy, Madame Datin Rafiah Arif of Brunei Embassy, and Madame

ASEAN Women’s Circle – DC with American Red Cross National Capital Region CEO Linda Mathes after the turnover ceremony.

Soumaly Sayavongs of Lao PDR Embassy.

American Red Cross Chief Executive Officer in the National Capital Region, Ms. Linda Mathes received the check amounting to $1,000 from Madame Bowoleksono during the turnover ceremony. Also present during the event is Mr. Geoff DeLizzio, Chief Development Officer of the National Capital Region office, who talked about their work as well as their past and present

activities.

AWC-DC organized a Charity Bazaar at the Royal Thai Embassy on 09 September 2017, with an agreement that proceeds will go to each participating Embassy’s charity of choice.

After the devastation caused by recent hurricanes in the United States, AWC-DC agreed that a portion of the charity bazaar proceeds will be donated to the affected communities through the American Red Cross.

An Asian Journal Magazine

8

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY OCTOBER 27, 2017

TRAVEL TRADE & CONSUMER MULTI-CITY ROADSHOWS PROMOTING TOURISM, TRADE, AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN THE USA AND PHILIPPINES.

AUGUST 2018

The Asian Journal Media Group, now on its 27th year in business, is a leading ethnic multimedia agency serving the global Filipino industry. Asian Journal publishes over 7 million weekly community newspapers annually in the USA from California, Nevada, New York, to New Jersey. In addition to this, the Asian Journal also publishes a quarterly magazine that is distributed in 60 countries and 101 cities throughout the World.

Complementing these frequent print publications are a variety of digital channels such as AsianJournal.com, BalikbayanMag.com, and LoveOfCounry.ph.

As an extension of that core mission, the Asian Journal, in cooperation with the Philippine Departments of Tourism (DOT), and Trade and Industry (DTI), is organizing multi-city “Travel, Trade, and Consumer Roadshows” to connect the US and Philippine markets together.

These events are in line with the “Balikbayan Program” of the Department of Tourism and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and the “One Town, One Product” of the DTI. The organizers collectively aim to ignite, drive, and fuel business-to-business, government-to-business, and business-to-consumer networking while showcasing and promoting tourism, investment, studying abroad, philanthropy, and retirement in the Philippines.

GLOBAL BUSINESS NETWORKING & MARKETING BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS

GOVERNMENT-TO-BUSINESS

BUSINESS-TO-CONSUMER SALES

MEET, CONNECT, AND COLLABORATE WITH INDUSTRY PARTNERS AND STREAMLINE YOUR BUSINESS RESULTS.

CONNECT WITH LEADERS IN THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR FROM ACROSS THE USA REGION AND PHILIPPINES.

WHETHER YOU’RE SHOPPING FOR NEW AND AMAZING PRODUCTS OR A VENDOR LOOKING TO PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCT,

FOR MORE INFORMATION TRAVELTRADECONSUMER.COM I INFO@ASIANJOURNALINC.COM