New York/New Jersey -- September 11 -- 17, 2015

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

Volume 8 – Issue 50 • 16 Pages

s e P t e mbe r 1 1 - 1 7 , 2 0 1 5 Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, NY 11354 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858 • 449 Hoboken Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306 • Tel. (212) 655-5426 • Fax: (818) 502-0858

Poe’s fate hangs in balance Will Senate Electoral Tribunal accept or not DQ case?

by Christine

O. AvendAñO

Inquirer.net

“AnythIng can happen” at the senate electoral tribunal (set) preliminary conference friday as the panel starts to hear the disqualification case against sen. grace Poe, sen. Vicente sotto III said on thursday, sept. 10. sotto, who sits on the nine-member tribunal, said the panel will hear the presentations of the lawyers of rizalito David, who last month filed a case questioning Poe’s right to serve in the senate when she is allegedly not a native-born filipino, and of Poe, whose

topping the voter preference polls for President in next year’s national elections brought on the case.

In a phone interview, sotto said anything, even the “remote possibility” that the tribunal would put the case to a vote, could happen at the hearing. he said a vote would be called only if the legal arguments at the presentation were “glaring.” reacting to the Inquirer report on Wednesday that he would ask the set chair, supreme Court senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, not to accept David’s case, sotto said he intended to listen to friday’s presentation.

An Inquirer source said Poe’s camp wanted the immediate dismissal of David’s case for fear it would drag on up to the start of the election campaign season in february next year. sotto said the next hearing of the tribunal was on sept. 20 or 21, or less than a month before the oct. 16 deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy.

Behind closed doors friday’s set preliminary conference will be held behind closed doors at the supreme Court.

An advisory sent by the set through PAGE A2

Fil-Am ‘gold rush’ at Asia Society

PHILIPPINE GOLD IN NYC. Josette Sheeran, Asia Society’s president and CEO (third from left), welcomed the New York media to preview the Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms exhibit which is set to open Friday, September 11. Also in photo are (from left) Peggy Loar, Interim Vice President, Global Arts & Culture and Director, Asia Society Museum; Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr.; Mariles Gustilo, Ayala Museum’s senior director, arts and culture and the exhibit’s co-curators Adriana Proser of Asia Society and Nina CapistranoBaker, consulting curator of Ayala Museum.

AJPress photo by Momar G. Visaya

there is a “gold rush” at Asia society in new york City. transforming Park Avenue and 70th street into a bustling center of fil Am activity, Philippine gold: treasures of forgotten Kingdoms exhibition opens friday, sept 11th at the Asia society and runs through January 3, 2016.

Weekend activities include the Premiere gala night on friday, sept. 11th, fil Am Community Celebration on saturday, sept.

12th and on sunday, sept 13th there will be a rondalla concert. from september through December there will be a host of special events bringing together visitors, near and far, to see the fortune and culture of pre-hispanic Philippines. the Premiere night gala Dinner on friday, sept 11th, will mark the opening of the exhibit and help launch a season of programming that highlights the richness and diversity of Philippine culture and current affairs, and explores its cuisine, performing PAGE A2

CARMAGEDDON. This photo that went viral on social media on Tuesday, Sept. 8 was taken at 10:30pm at the peak of the traffic jam that turned EDSA into a giant parking lot and stranded tens of thousands of tired, hungry and angry motorists and commuters. It was taken by Myk Josh Wierzbicki from the 18th floor of Paragon Condominium Plaza on Edsa corner Reliance Street with a Samsung S3 smartphone.

Inquirer.net contributed photo

Two Philippine nationals arrested in four-day immigration sweep across Southern California

USA

DATELINE CDC report: most Americans’ hearts are older than they are from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

A neW report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has found that three out of four Americans has a “heart age” that is older than their actual age. the findings, published in the CDC’s morbidity and mortality Weekly report on tuesday, sept. 1, indicate that the average American man has a heart that is 7.8 years “older” than his chronological age, while the average American woman’s heart is 5.4 years more than her actual age, the Los Angeles Times wrote.

PAGE A3

Immigrants encouraged to naturalize despite barriers

Los AngeLes – 8.8 million lawful permanent residents are eligible to naturalize in the United states, but only 8 percent apply. of that qualified population, 2.5 million are in California and 800,000 in Los Angeles County alone. though naturalization is an ideal goal for PAGE A3

by Agnes

COnstAnte AJPress

CROWD DRAWER. Vice President Jejomar Binay buzzes a child during his visit to a community near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Pasay City.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma

tWo Philippine nationals were among 244 foreign nationals arrested during a Us Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICe) four-day sweep in southern California.

one of the men was 31 years old with convictions for battery and felony burglary, and was arrested in Los Angeles on monday, Aug. 24. the other was a 39-year-old with convictions for battery, petty theft, felony burglary, and two convictions for being under the influence of a

controlled substance. he was arrested in moreno Valley on sunday, Aug. 23.

ICe only released the names of arrestees being held on administrative immigration violations, Virginia Kice, ICe western regional communications direcPAGE A3

MMDA chief gets stuck in traffic PH to roll-out nationwide Binay sues Trillanes, free WiFi Mercado for libel service by 2016

by BerniCe

CAmille v.

ManilaTimes.net

BAuzOn

“the Vice President believes in our criminal justice system and is abiding by the rule of law in order to prove that his accusers are liars and political opportunists.” this was the statement of Joey salgado, the media affairs chief of the office of the Vice President, on thursday, sept. 10 after Vice President Jejomar Binay filed separate libel complaints against his critics, sen.

Antonio trillanes IV and former makati City Vice mayor nestor mercado.

Binay, clad in gym wear, personally filed the complaints with the makati City regional trial Court.

In his complaint against the senator, the Vice President denied allegations that he was involved in a P100-million annual “racket” on projects involving senior citizens when he was mayor of makati City. he said trillanes’ claims were “utterly false and baseless.” trillanes is part of the senate blue ribbon sub-committee investigating Binay’s alleged links to multi-million anomalies during his term as makati City mayor.

PAGE A4

mmDA chair francis tolentino got a taste of the bitter traffic situation in metro manila when he missed a live television appearance thursday morning after he was stuck on edsa. tolentino was supposed to be a guest at AnC’s “headstart” hosted by Karen Davila but was a no-show when the news talk show started at 8 a.m. however, Davila still managed to interview by telephone the mmDA chair, who was still on edsa, inching his way from muntinlupa City to the AnC’s studios on mother Ignacia street, Barangay south triangle, Quezon City.

At 8:43 a.m., tolentino said he was “already” in front of Camp Aguinaldo, prompting Davila to say that he might still make it. he said he wanted to show Davila– and her audience–some charts that would explain the traffic situation in the metropolis.

aj footer ad

ten minutes later, at 8:53 a.m., the mmDA chair who surrendered the mmDA’s traffic management of edsa to the police highway Patrol group (hPg) after failing to solve the daily gridlock, told Davila that he was already at the compound of ABs CBn. At 8:55 a.m., tolentino informed the host that he would be in the studio “in five minutes” or at 9 a.m., when headstart was scheduled to end.

Davila told tolentino that she hoped he could make it “next time” and went on to another issue before signing off. on tuesday morning, september 8, 2015, Philippine national Police Chief, Director general ricardo marquez, was also caught in traffic on edsa while inspecting the performance of hPg personnel assigned to managed the flow of vehicles on metro manila’s key thoroughfare. (inquirer.net)

by AllysOn

esCOBAr

AJPress

A neW plan from the Philippine government would offer free wireless Internet access to people across the country, but would limit annual data revenue prospects of the nation’s largest telecoms.

According to Bloomberg Business, the government plans to roll-out its free Wi-fi services roughly half the country’s municipalities over the next few months, and has plans for full nationwide coverage by the end of 2016. the free service will be made available in public areas such as schools, hospitals, airports, and PAGE A4

A september 11-17, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

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

From the Front Page

Poe’s fate hangs in...

PAGE A1 Supreme Court spokesman Theodore Te said the hearing would be closed to the public and to the press.

Under SET rules, the preliminary conference is held for “the simplification of issues; the possibility of obtaining stipulation or admission of facts and of documents to avoid unnecessary proof;

the limitation of the number of witnesses and the nature of their testimonies; and such other matters as may aid in the prompt disposition” of the case.

The SET scheduled oral arguments on the case for Sept. 21 at the Supreme Court’s main session hall.

The SET advisory said the oral arguments would be open to the

mango tours 1/8v

public, subject to limitations of seating.

The Supreme Court information office will livestream the proceedings.

Who’s behind case?

Poe claims she has not decided whether to run, but the surveys indicate that if she runs for President, she will beat Vice President Jejomar Binay, the former leading candidate in the polls who has been talking about running for President since his election in 2010.

As Poe surged in the surveys in June, Binay’s camp questioned her citizenship—she is an adopted daughter of the late movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) and actress Susan Roces and is a former US citizen—and claimed that she did not meet the 10-year residency requirement for presidential candidates.

Binay, a friend of FPJ, stopped his camp from pressing the challenge. But David, who lost a run for the Senate in 2013, came out of nowhere last month and raised the same questions about Poe’s citizenship and residency before the SET and the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

The Vice President, however, and Malacañang, whose presidential candidate, outgoing Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, is trailing Binay and Poe in the polls, have denied having anything to do with David’s action.

Poe has submitted a 107-page reply to David’s challenge and asked the SET to throw out the case, asserting that she is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines.

Lapsed She said the period for questioning her qualifications as senator had lapsed a long time ago. She pointed out that under the law, the qualifications of a senator could be questioned only within 10 days of proclamation.

Because the residency of senators is part of their qualifications, the SET rules are also clear that this could be questioned only within 10 days of proclamation, Poe said.

Poe was proclaimed on May 13, 2013. If her argument is valid, David’s challenge comes two years beyond the prescribed period.

In the same reply, Poe also sought to turn the tables on David, telling the tribunal that he was guilty of forum shopping because before he went to the SET on Aug. 17 he filed

u PAGE A4

PAGE A1

Fil-Am ‘gold rush’...

arts, film, design, literature, and more.

The evening will include a private viewing of the exhibition, reception and dinner along with special Filipino entertainment.

For tickets and more information, about the Fil Am Community Celebration, email PhilippineGold@AsiaSociety.org or call 212-327-9335.

On Saturday, Sept. 12th at 6PM The Fil Am Community Celebration will feature live music, pica pica reception and tours of the exhibition.

There will be a special performance of Langhapin, Lasapin, Namnamin…Pag-Ibig at 7PM. Directed by Benjamin Dia and Herbie Go, “Breathe, Taste, Savor – Love” will be presented by Fil Am artists featuring Jeremy Blossey, John Andrew Fernandez, Enrico Lagasca, Antoni Mendezona, Rogelio Penaverde Jr., Katrina Saporsantos and Joy Tamayo with special participation by Mica Bernas and Madeleine Nicolas. For tickets, visit https://support.asiasociety.org/ pages/box-office-events/phillipine-gold-festival or call the box office at 212-517-2742.

When you visit Asia Society to see the exhibition on Sunday, Sept 13th, you will be able to revel in the stirring music and dances of Tunog ng Ulap Rondalla at 2PM. This delightful plucked string ensemble affiliated with the Iskwelahang Pilipino of Boston performs original compositions and arrangements of traditional pieces celebrating the musical dynamism of the islands.

Rondalla is an ensemble of stringed instruments with origins coming from the folk traditions of Spain, which were brought to the Philippines and incorporated into the culture.

The performance is free with paid admission to Asia Society. Tickets are available on the same day of the event. First come, first served. For more information, email PhilippineGold@AsiaSociety.org or call 212-327-9335.

Asia Society has scheduled a Fil Am “gold rush” program of activities in collaboration with the Philippine Gold Exhibition.

Events for the month of September include:

Fil Am artists to perform at the Fil-Am Community Celebration on Saturday, Sept 12.

Tunog ng Ulap Rondalla

Dr. Florina Capistrano Baker of the Ayala Museum

September 15, 6:30PM: (For Members Only) Re-collecting a Forgotten Past: Traces of Hindu-Buddhist Art in the Precolonial Philippines. Lecture. Join co-curator of Philippine Gold: Treasures from Forgotten Kingdoms, Florina H. CapistranoBaker for an insightful talk on the origins of these extraordinary objects, from the pre-colonial era of the Philippines, which are on view in the United States for the first time. Dr. Capistrano-Baker is Consulting Curator, Ayala Museum. This is a free, members-only event.

Tickets are distributed at the front desk from 6 pm onwards

on a first-come first-served basis.

September 18, 6:30PM: Join Federico De Vera as he discusses the inspiration behind the Asia Society lobby installation Filipino Design Now showcasing signature works by renowned and emerging Filipino designers. Each design will capture Filipino heritage through the eyes of celebrated designers, promoting knowledge and appreciation and inspiring pride in Filipino design, technique, material and craftsmanship. Designers featured are Maricris Brias, Lenora Ca-

u PAGE A4

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

Dateline USa

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 11-17, 2015

A

CDC report: most Americans’... New appointment system for consular services applicants of the PH embassy PAGE A1 “Because so many U.S. adults don’t understand their cardiovascular disease risk, they are missing out on early opportunities to prevent future heart attacks or strokes,” said Barbara Bowman, director of the CDC’s division for heart disease and stroke prevention, according to USA Today.

In obtaining its findings, the authors of the study examined data from the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which indicated participants’ age, body mass index, whether or not they smoke, and whether or not they have diabetes or use medication to control their blood pressure, according to the Times.

Other risk factors considered included heart disease, excess weight and systolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats.

Researchers calculated the heart age of 236,101 men and 342,424 women between the ages of 30 to 74 and found that the average chronological ages were 47.8 and 47.9 years, respectively. However, the average heart age for men was 55.6 years, while that number was 53.3 for women.

Among findings by the study authors was that the heart age gap was lowest in Utah, with men at 5.8 years and women at 2.8 years; the highest gap was found in Mississippi where men had a heart age of 10.1 years higher than their actual age, while women were at 9.1 years.

The study also found that heart ages varied across ethnicities. For instance, among men, African Americans had the highest predicted heart age at 58.7 years, followed by Hispanics (55.7 years), whites (55.3 years) and others (54.7 years), the authors wrote.

For women, those numbers were

58.9, 53.5, 52.5 and 52.3 years, respectively.

Other contributing factors included education and household income, which, when taken into consideration, bring the average heart age for African Americans three years higher than white men and four years higher than Latinos. For women, the factors boost the average heart age for African Americans by five years compared to whites and seven years compared to Latinas.

Each year, approximately 800,000 Americans die of heartrelated conditions that cost nearly $320 billion annually, according to the American Heart Association.

And while heart age “is kind of a gimmick,” cardiologist Cam Patterson told USA Today, the concept helps people comprehend their risk for heart disease and conditions, the Times wrote.

“If your heart age is older than your actual age, obviously you are at higher risk,” said Martha Gulati, director for preventive cardiology and women’s cardiovascular health at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, according to USA Today. “If you are 40 years old and told your heart is actually 60 years old, that can grab your [attention and] make you ask, how can I change it? What can I do? If your odds of having a heart attack or dying from heart disease is that of someone 20 years older than you, that might be [a] motivator for change.”

Researchers wrote that a 50year-old male smoker, for instance, without diabetes, a body mass index of 30 and a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg, has a predicted heart age of 72 years.

If he adopted a healthier lifestyle and stopped smoking for one year, his heart age would drop by 14 years to 58. (Agnes Constante/ AJPress)

Immigrants encouraged...

PAGE A1 most immigrants, obstacles still hinder the process of becoming a US citizen. Among them: cost, language barriers and low access to information.

A roundtable discussion on Thursday, September 3 hosted

by New America Media, the New Americans Campaign and several city-based organizations at Los Angeles City Hall emphasized the urgency of getting immigrants to apply, especially with the elections coming up in 2016.

“I can’t even remember when the idea of citizenship has been disparaged in the political forum the way it is being disparaged now…We think, what do we do?

How do we respond? What do we say? It is so important that we encourage all of our colleagues, relatives, friends and audiences to take the idea of citizenship seriously,” said Sandy Close, executive director of New America Media.

As Citizenship Day approaches on September 17, community organizations are sustaining a push to increase citizenship application rates in minority im-

migrant communities by hosting accessible workshops and providing in-language outreach and information.

Overcoming barriers A main hurdle to citizenship that many immigrants mention is the application fee, which is currently $680.

Nasim Khansari, citizenship project director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice — Los Angeles (Advancing Justice — LA) said that the cost could potentially rise, but there is advocacy being done to consider a sliding scale based on household income and family size.

“There are immigrants out there that want to become US citizens, but they just don’t have the $680 to be able to do so…,” she said. “That’s a real-life barrier we’re dealing with when it comes to naturalization.”

Khansari gave an example of a Filipino couple (who requested not to be identified by name in this article) ineligible to apply for a fee waiver because their household income is $400 above the government poverty level. The couple has reached PAGE A5

EFFECTIvE on Monday, Sept.

14, the Consular Section of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC will begin implementing an appointment system for applicants of various consular services, including passport renewals, notarial services, and civil registration.

The appointment system will allow applicants to avoid long queues and to complete their transactions within a predetermined period. Walk-ins will still be entertained on a first comefirst serve basis.

Requests for appointment should be sent to consularapp@ gmail.com. In the request, kindly

indicate in the subject line the applicant’s family name, type of transaction, and preferred date for processing in the following format: (SURNAME), (type of transaction), (mm.dd.yyyy). For example, AQUINO, passport renewal, 09.14.2015. In case of multiple transactions, please provide details in the body of the email.

Kindly note the schedule allotted for the corresponding services, as follows: Applicants will receive a confirmation email with the exact time of the appointment (10 minutes blocked time for authentication and civil registration; 15 minutes

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

AM

Passport Civil Renewals Registration

Notarials

Civil Registration

Notarials

PM

Notarials

Passport Renewals

Passport Renewals

Passport Renewals

Passport Renewals

blocked time for passport applications) and the corresponding list of requirements. Said confirmation should be presented at the counter upon arrival. Applicants are reminded to come at their appointed time withcomplete documentation. Those who arrive late for their appointments would have to transact along with

Two Philippine nationals arrested...

PAGE A1 tor and spokesperson, told the Asian Journal in an email.

As of Thursday, Sept. 3, both Filipino men remain in custody pending removal proceedings, ICE Public Affairs spokeswoman Lori Haley said in an email.

The Southern California sweep, which took place from Aug. 23 through Aug. 26, was the most successful, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations deputy field office director David Marin told KPCC. This was because of the number of arrestees who had records with “really serious felonies,” Marin told the radio station.

“We think it’s really important that we get those people and remove them, not only from the community but from the country.

Because ultimately, that’s going to make the community and our

country safer,” Marin said, according to KPCC. The majority of individuals taken into custody as a result of the four-day operation are originally from Mexico (191), according to a release from the agency.

Arrestees came from 21 different countries, including Ghana, France, Peru and Thailand.

The sweep covered six Southland counties, with most number of arrests occurring in Los Angeles County (99), followed by Orange County (55), San Bernardino County (43), Riverside County (24), Santa Barbara County (20), and San Luis Obispo County (3), the ICE release stated.

Among individuals captured was vincente Onofre-Ramirez, 35, a Mexican national who was convicted in 2002 in New York of sexual abuse with force. He was deported from the United States

after he served his sentence.

Onofre-Ramirez was arrested on Sunday, Aug. 23 at his home in Santa Ana and appeared in federal court on Monday, Aug. 24.

Another arrestee was 46-yearold Guatemalan national who was formerly sentenced to 10 years in prison for the sexual abuse of two children. The individual was arrested in Upland on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

A 50-year-old Salvadoran national who was convicted in Los Angeles County last year of two criminal counts involving sex abuse was also arrested during the sweep in Sunland on Sunday, Aug. 23.

Yet despite the success of the sweep, Kice said it would be inaccurate to conclude that crimes committed by immigrants are on the rise. Kice also told the Los Angeles Times that not all those

other walk-in applicants on a first come- first serve basis.

Civil registration and notarial applications can be released to the applicant in the afternoon of the same day (5pm for Monday,Tuesday and Thursday transactions and 3pm for Wednesday and Friday transactions). arrested in the sweep were violent felons or were in the United States illegally.

“One of the challenges we’re facing is because of state law and local policies, more individuals who are potentially deportable with significant criminal histories are being released onto the street instead of being turned over to ICE,” Kice said, according to the Times. “I think to infer from [the sweep] that potentially foreign nationals are committing more crimes is flawed.”

Individuals arrested during the sting who have pending deportation orders or re-entered the country after being deported are subject to immediate removal from the United States, according to the ICE release.

The remaining arrestees are in the custody of the agency and will have a hearing before an immigration judge, or are pending travel arrangements for removal in the near future. n

A september 11-17, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

Binay sues Trillanes, Mercado...

PAGE A1 The libel complaint against Mercado, meanwhile, pertains to a land development deal between the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and property developer Alphaland Corp.

Mercado told the Senate panel in February that Binay pocketed P651 million from the allegedly anomalous land deal.

He said Binay defrauded the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in the land deal.

The Vice President also denied the allegations.

“Being the consistent frontrunner in the presidential elections in May 2016, unscrupulous individuals, including respondent Trillanes, have conspired to politically assassinate me by blatantly and publicly maligning my good name and reputation with lies and defamatory statements,” Binay said.

He has declared that he will run for President under the opposition United Nationalist Alliance in next year’s elections.

The Vice President led pre-election presidential preference surveys until Sen. Grace Poe overtook him in surveys early this year.

“The damaging and ruinous claims spewed out by respondent Mercado are mere concoctions and fabrications with no other purpose than to malign, discredit, ruin my reputation and besmirch my good name as well as that of

my family,” Binay said.

He claimed that he “incurred the ire” of Mercado when the latter failed to get his endorsement in the 2010 elections.

Mercado, a former Binay ally, lost to the Vice President’s son, Jejomar Erwin, in the 2010 polls.

The younger Binay, meanwile, told the Department of Justice (DOJ) that Trillanes can neither invoke parliamentary immunity nor freedom of speech as a defense in a libel complaint for accusing justices of the Court of Appeals of accepting bribes.

In a reply-affidavit he filed with the DOJ, Binay insisted there is probable cause to charge Trillanes for violation of Article 355 in relation to Article 353 of the Revised Penal Code.

Trillanes had invoked parliamentary immunity under Section 11, Article VI of the 1987 Constitution, which provides that no senator shall be questioned nor be held liable in any other place for any speech or debate in Congress or in any committee hearing.

But the younger Binay said Trillanes was “grossly mistaken” for invoking such immunity because the privilege applies only when necessary to prevent indirect impairment of deliberations being made in Congress.

“Evidently, the investigation and, if warranted, the eventual prosecution of the respondent for the crime of libel will not impugn

Poe’s fate hangs...

PAGE A2 on the same day a petition raising the same issues against her in the Comelec, making himself liable for direct contempt of court.

Although asking the SET to summarily dismiss the case, Poe brought a motion for preliminary hearing and another to cite David for contempt of court and counterclaim for indirect contempt of court.

She also submitted her birth certificate and other certificates from the Bureau of Immigration.

Discrimination Lawyer Katrina Legarda, a women’s and children’s rights advocate, issued a statement on Thursday saying David’s case was a form of discrimination against abandoned children.

Legarda said that if David’s case were upheld, it would be tantamount to saying that abandoned children whose parents were un-

known had no civil and political rights.

“If a foundling is not presumed natural born, then no abandoned child can ever aspire for national office,” Legarda said.

This, she added, would be a violation of the equal protection of the law, because it would appear that there was now a distinction between an abandoned child whose parents were known and an abandoned child whose parents were unknown.

“You cannot have one law for abandoned children whose parents are known and another law for abandoned children whose parents are not known. This is discriminatory, violative of the equal protection of the law,” she said.

Legarda also said she believes Poe satisfied the citizenship and residency requirements set in the 1987 Constitution for the Senate and even for higher office.

Dateline USa

any of his legislative acts,” Binay said.

He added that Trillanes should not be covered by parliamentary immunity because the lawmaker made his accusations in the media, not in Congress.

“Clearly, when respondent authored, mouthed, disseminated and distributed his lies to the media and the public outside the session halls of the Senate, he shed any pretense of acting in the official discharge of his duties,” Binay said.

He took Trillanes to court for “publicly claiming” that the mayor bribed members of the 6th Division of the Court of Appeals (CA) “by paying them millions of pesos in exchange for favorable action” on the temporary restraining order (TRO) against his suspension order.

Binay escaped suspension after the CA issued a TRO against the Office of the Ombudsman, which had issued a preventive suspension order against the mayor over alleged overpricing in the Makati CIty Hall Building 2 project.

He, however, ended up leaving his post after the Office of the Ombudsman issued another preventive suspension over separate claims of overpricing in the Makati Science High School building project.

Binay failed to secure a TRO for the second suspension. n Natural-born Filipino She said Poe, as an abandoned child “found” in Jaro, Iloilo province, in 1968, was a natural-born Filipino citizen because the framers of the 1935 Constitution, which was in effect at the time of her birth, recognized that foundlings found in the Philippines are Filipino citizens based on generally accepted principles of international law without further need of legislative action.”

“There is no question that Poe is natural-born Filipino, as cited in a 1951 opinion of the Department of Justice that holds in force to this day, a foundling is a citizen of the place where he is found by virtue of the standing principles of international law,” Legarda said.

According to Legarda, the documents submitted by Poe to the SET suggested that she has been living in the Philippines for at least 11 years.

Legarda explained that in the case of Poe, who lived in the United States for a number of years, “she followed the legal domicile of

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

Obama extends paid sick leave to over 300, 000 Federal employees

ON Labor Day 2015, President Obama unveiled a new executive order that will require federal contractors to offer employees up to seven days of paid sick leave.

Contrasting with Republican economic policies, Obama’s plan could benefit more than 300,000 federal US workers, who currently receive no paid leave, the White House said.

“Right now, you have parents who have to choose between losing income or staying home with a sick child,” Obama said to a crowd of hundreds during the annual Greater Boston Labor Council breakfast, sponsored by the AFLCIO. At the breakfast, the President was met with applause when he said he had signed the paid sick leave executive order on Air Force One. He chose Boston to make his appeal because “voters in the state approved a paid leave policy state-wide, which took effect on July 1 and is expected to affect 900,000 workers who didn’t have the option before,” according to the White House.

Under the executive order, workers on federal contracts would be eligible for paid leave if they are sick or tending to a sick relative. They will earn one hour of leave for every 30 hours worked, with a maximum of seven days a year, depending on how many hours they work, officials said.

The order would take effect with new contracts after Obama leaves office in early 2017.

The White House did not specify the cost to implement the order, but the Labor Department said “any costs would be offset by sav-

ings that contractors would see as a result of lower attrition rates and increased worker loyalty.”

The Obama administration has been working on the executive order for months, as the president works to enact what policies he can before his term ends next year, despite Congressional resistance to some of his previous executive orders to improve conditions in the workplace. The push has reverberated in the 2016 presidential campaign, where Democrat and Republican candidates seek to show the better support of the middle class.

Obama’s order drew a sharp contrast between his administration’s policies and those of Republicans. “The GOP believes the best way to stimulate the economy is to cut taxes and loosen regulation,” he said.

“Republicans who say they fight for the middle-class are making big claims, but they have to walk the walk. The values that built the middle class are working people’s values.”

“There are certain Republicans that said we can’t afford to do this,” said Labor Secretary Thomas Perez, lamenting how paid leave is seen as a “partisan issue” in the US despite broad support in Europe. “The Republican Party is out of step with similar conservative governments around the world.”

The Labor Day announcement also came with a renewed call for Congress to follow President Obama’s lead and pass the Health Families Act, which would require all businesses with more than 14 employees (not just contract workers, and excluding the small-

est US businesses) to similarly offer seven days of paid sick leave.

About 40 percent of the privatesector workforce does not have paid leave, the White House said.

The act would benefit roughly 44 million private-sector workers currently without leave.

The idea has gained little traction on Capitol Hill. In recent years, Obama has frequently used his executive authority to apply policies--such as worker discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation--to federal contractors that he lacks the authority to enact nationwide. His aim is to lay the groundwork for those policies to be expanded to all Americans.

Through labor groups have applauded the acts, many remain skeptical of the president’s push to secure sweeping new trade deals with the Asia-Pacific region and with Europe. Many unions have warned that the deals could lead to the widespread elimination of certain types of jobs.

“The administration has an obligation to get the most out of every federal tax dollar,” said Cecilia Munoz, director of the White House Domestic Policy Council.

“The benefits with respect to businesses will more than offset the costs and ultimately make them, as employers, more productive and more efficient and, therefore, more valued to the taxpayer.”

Obama’s 2016 budget also includes $2 billion for states to expand paid sick leave, as well as create laws that would allow employees maternity, paternity, and eldercare leave. (Allyson Escobar/AJPress with reports from the Washington Post, NBC News, Associated Press, KTLA5)

PH to roll-out nationwide free WiFi...

PAGE A1 parks, and is expected to cost the government about 1.5 billion pesos ($32 million) a year.

Concerns for the proposal arose from Philippines’ two largest telecoms, Philippine Long Distance Telephone and Globe Telecom Inc. Both companies may need to make a value play to keep its customers.

“If subscribers move to using free public Wi-Fi, telecoms may need to lure them into getting higher-end services,” said Monchito Ibrahim, deputy executive director of the Information and Communications Technology Office in Makati City. “The government’s focus is on areas that absolutely don’t have access.”

The free connection has its limitations, Ibrahim said. Speed is capped at 256 kilobits per second, which is enough for basic Internet searches or access to Facebook.

The overall goal to expand internet access across the Philippines, especially in disconnected

areas, will hopefully lower relatively expensive internet costs.

According to research firm IDC, data costs an average of $18 for each megabit per second, compared with a global average of just $5. Broadband connectivity in the Philippines is only ahead of Afghanistan in Asia, IDC said.

Other nations are slowly following suit, with lawmakers in India’s Delhi territory recently proposing a similar plan to offer free WiFi usage up to one gigabyte per month, eventually leading to free internet access in all government and private colleges. Singapore also started a free public wireless service in 2006 that now offers speeds of as much as 2 megabits per second--enough for phone calls over data network and video streaming, and already eight times faster than that planned in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, companies like Facebook and Google have developing projects to bring better connectivity to remote areas

Fil-Am ‘gold rush’...

PAGE A2 bili, Ian Giron, Jewelmer, Josie Natori, Tina Ocampo for Celestina, Ditta Sandico, Wynn Wynn Ong, Anne Saguil, Rafe Totengco, Bea Valdes, Natalya Lagdameo and Al Valeniciano for Balay ni Atong. Signature pieces from each designer collection will be selected for inclusion in the vignette, the balance of each designer’s collection will be featured for sale at AsiaStore and online at asiastore.org where customers can purchase products and view expanded collections by these talented Filipino designers. Mr. De Vera’s books, De Vera Objects and De Vera Jewelry will be available for sale and signing in AsiaStore following the

event.

The Philippine Gold Exhibition of more than 100 gold objects focuses on the wealth of the golden age of Butuan, a polity on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao that rose to commercial prominence in the tenth century and declined in the thirteenth century.

Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms is organized by Asia Society, New York, and Ayala Museum, Philippines. The exhibition is cocurated by Florina H. Capistrano-Baker, Consulting Curator, Ayala Museum, and Adriana Proser, John H. Foster Senior Curator for Traditional Asian Art, Asia Society. Loida Nicolas Lewis (US) and Doris Magsay-

Immigrants encouraged...

PAGE A3 out to Advancing Justice — LA for application assistance, but has repeatedly been denied by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

To apply for a fee waiver, individuals must fill out a I-912 form and meet one of three requirements: a means-tested benefit (i.e. government programs such as food stamps or Medi-Cal); household income is at or below the 150 percent poverty level; or financial hardship that prevents you from paying the filing fee (having to pay for medical expenses, for example).

“Cost is definitely a factor, but I don’t think people should be dissuaded by that,” Linda Lopez, chief of the Office of Immigrant Affairs at the LA Mayor’s Office, said. Lopez said that there are other avenues to seek out assistance, like credit unions that offer microloans to those who do not qualify for the fee waiver.

Another barrier is the lack of awareness within immigrant communities of the process that goes into becoming a citizen.

“A lot of immigrants don’t even know where to begin the process.

They don’t know a non-profit organization that offers free or low-cost services even exist, so that’s why we need the media’s help to get these organizations’ names out there to let the community know there are a lot of services providers, particularly in Los Angeles County, coupled with Mayor’s Office, partnering together here to make citizenship as accessible as possible,” Khansari said.

Advancing Justice — LA, which is one of 20 organizations in LA part of the New Americans Campaign, hosts free citizenship clinics at its office in downtown every first three Fridays and the last Saturday of each month.

Lopez cited an initiative by the LA Mayor’s Office to “integrate immigrants local in our civic, political, economic and social fabric” by making citizenship materials available at every city public library branch.

The materials include flyers in English, Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese, naturalization test brochures, naturalization appli-

worldwide, said Fortune.

“The free Wi-Fi service would compel improvement of service of both telecoms,” said Lexter Azurin, research head at Unicapital Securities Inc. “Definitely, they might need more capex for that, which would impact earnings at the end of the day.”

“As more people get into the data traffic, they will understand and eventually appreciate the ease of using mobile Internet,” said Yolanda Crisanto, a spokeswoman at Globe, which in 2013 posted a 27 percent jump in firsthalf profit, with services such as free Facebook access. “That will induce usage.”

“While offering free Wi-Fi access is a step forward, what the country needs is a longer-term plan to improve Internet connectivity,” Senator Bam Aquino, head of the Philippine Senate trade and commerce committee, said last month. “What I’m looking for is really a major broadband plan.” say Ho and Fernando Zobel de Ayala (Philippines) are the Benefit Committee Co-Chairs.

Members of the Benefit Committee, as of press date, include: Honorary Chairs, Ambassador and Mrs. Jose Cuisia Jr., Ambassador and Mrs. Mario de Leon, Jr., Chairs, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Loida Nicolas Lewis, Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Vice Chairs, Tony and Gail Alvarez, Sheila Marcelo, and Members, Marilyn Abalos, Roger Alama, Aida Bartolome, Elena Brim, Angie Cruz, Mars and Cora Custodio, Agnes Jamora, Edwin Josue, Jean Lobell, Victor and Bambi Lorica, Paul Magahis, Michael Nierva, Lily O’Boyle, Ricco and Celestina Ocampo, Emilio and Fely Quines, Joe Ramos, Cora Reyes, Vincent Roldan, Lolita Valderama Savage, and Jerry Sibal. cations and more. She remarked that there has been an increase in citizenship interest in the city, as the immigration office has been tracking the number of people who go to the libraries for citizenship workshops and the information.

In 2014, 20,000 residents used the resources; it has since doubled this year, Lopez said.

Advancing Justice — LA also hosts English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at various libraries for residents who have had their green cards for at least four years.

Despite the common obstacles to naturalization, the benefits of citizenship outweigh them.

Naturalized citizens no longer have to fear deportation or circumstances that would cause their legal permanent residence status to be revoked.

Additionally, naturalized citizens tend to experience a nearly 20 percent increase in income.

Some studies have shown that naturalized citizens earn more than non-skilled counterparts and are more likely to be employed in high-skilled jobs, which are attractive factors for highlyPAGE A5

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

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 11-17, 2015

Dateline PhiliPPines

A

Comelec wants debates for all bets in 2016 polls

by Marvin

Sy

Philstar.com

MANILA—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is pushing for the conduct of debates for all candidates in the 2016 polls, from president down to local government officials.

During the hearing on the proposed P15.6-billion budget of the Comelec for 2016, Sen. Loren Legarda, chairman of the Senate committee on finance, said the voters deserve to know the candidates’ stand on various issues.

Legarda said holding debates is one of the best ways to bring the platforms of candidates to the electorate.

She said this is less expensive for the candidates to introduce themselves to the voters compared to house-to-house visits during the campaign period.

Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, who chairs the Senate committee on electoral reforms, supported the initiative.

Pimentel said there are proposed laws to make debates among candidates mandatory.

Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista said they are planning to conduct three debates for the 2016 elections, one each for Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

The Comelec will also push for greater participation of overseas Filipinos in the elec-

toral process.

Senate President Franklin Drilon noted that the turnout of the overseas absentee voting (OAV) in previous elections was low.

Comelec Commissioner Arthur Lim said they are eyeing eight million overseas absentee voters to take part in next year’s polls.

Lim said the Comelec and the Department of Foreign Affairs would be undertaking a campaign dubbed “Akyat Barko” to urge seafarers to register for the 2016 elections.

Under the proposed 2016 Comelec budget, a total of P192 million was allocated for the OAV. DUTERTE SUPPORTERS. After the announcement of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte on Monday, supporters expressed dismay but remained hopeful, prompting them to hold a gathering dubbed “Million March: Run Duterte Run” to make him run.

Mayweather took banned IV before Pacquiao fight - report Disappointed Clarkson to Gilas: Let’s go to Rio! Philstar.com photo by Rosette Adel

by aLder

aLMo Philstar.com

of my experiences with the team and how passionate I was about ports, received an exception from Inquirer.net LOS ANGELES Lakers Fil-Am representing an entire country. My the USADA but his camp did not guard Jordan Clarkson is disap- Dad told me to follow my heart,” apply for the waiver until 18 days pointed that he could not suit up for Clarkson said. after he defeated Pacquiao via Meanwhile, the Lakers managethe 2015 FIBA Asia Men’s Champiunanimous decision. onship and would be reduced to a ment earlier said that they could As per ESPN, the substances release Clarkson to the national cheerleader again.

Mayweather got injected with are The Samahang Basketbol ng team in the early phase of the eliminot banned under WADA, whose Pilipinas put up a last ditch effort nation while his clearance to play standards the USADA follows, to make Clarkson eligible for the the whole tournament would have but the intravenous procedure is Olympic qualifier but did not beat been subject for review of the what WADA prohibits. coaching staff. the deadline on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Mayweather’s team told USA“I spoke to Lakers General “I’m very disappointed I won’t DA agents the IV contained a be able to play with the Gilas Na- Manager, Mitch Kupchak, and he 250-milliliter mixture of saline tional Team during the FIBA Asia shared the same sentiments about and multivitamins and a 500-milChampionships from September representing an entire country and liliter mixture of saline and Vita23 to October 3. We can all agree, supported my decision either way,” min C and was given to the boxer the 12 men selected to represent said Clarkson, who is entering the for rehydration purposes. the Philippines in this 2015 FIBA final year of his rookie contract with WADA does not allow intraveAsia Championship have earned the Lakers. nous injections of more than 50 The Fil-Am guard, who was Floyd Mayweather Jr. poses after hearing the announcement that he won by unanimous milliliters per six hours “except the right and any continued efforts decision.

Inquirer.net photo by Rem Zamora for those legitimately received in on my part would not be fair to the named to the All-NBA Rookie Team team. I will cheer them onto Gold. last season thanked the Filipino fans the course of hospital admissions, A DAY before boxing’s most Doping Agency.

“Let’s go to Rio,” Clarkson said in a for their support and all the people, According to SB Nation, surgical procedures, or clinical statement on Wednesday. lucrative fight against Manny who put in the effort to get him a Pacquiao, pound-for-pound king agents of the United States Anti investigations.”

With Clarkson not yet eligible chance to play in the Olympics.

The SB Nation report added Floyd Mayweather Jr. reportedly Doping Agency found evidence “The Filipino Fans are some of to play for the Philippines, SBP took an intravenous injection that Mayweather used an IV a WADA bans procedures as it submitted the final lineup led by the most passionate in the world of saline and vitamins, a pro- day before the fight, on fight day, can be used to “dilute or mask former NBA player Andray Blatche and many of them are Laker’s supthe presence of another subcedure which is banned under and after the weigh-ins. and Gilas returnees Jayson Castro, porters. I want to sincerely thank Mayweather, SB Nation re- stance.” the guidelines of the World Anti Ranidel de Ocampo, Marc Pingris all of the fans who sent me letters of encouragement during these and Gabe Norwood. tion year next year and a lot of Clarkson had a heart to heart last three months about Gilas,” our new citizens will be partici- talk with his dad, who previously Clarkson said. pating for the first time in elect- disapproved a possible FIBA Asia Despite his non-inclusion in the PAGE A4 dents, including Los Angeles, ing the candidates and voting for stint with Gilas this year.

FIBA Asia tournament this year, “Upon my return from support- Clarkson remains hopeful that he educated immigrants who seek New York City and Miami. The laws that will affect our everyday opportunities at par with those program, which includes infor- life,” she said. NALEO provides ing Gilas in The Jones Cup, I had a could play for the Philippines in the back in their countries of origin. mation workshops, one-on-one civic education for the new citi- great talk with my dad. I told him future as he continues to follow his Alenoush Bidrousian, a newly application assistance and civ- zens regarding voter registranaturalized citizen originally ics instruction, is offered on the tion, key issues and laws and from Iran, shared at the round- worksite either during employee political candidates.

Never too late table that she was motivated by breaks, before or after work Another key takeaway from the opportunities given to wom- hours.

“It’s a win-win situation for the roundtable discussion was en in the US, especially when it comes to higher education, jobs their workforce to transition from that there is still time for older [lawful] permanent residents to legal permanent residents to beand owning a business “The most important thing as a citizens. Our project is unique in come citizens.

Saul Montoya, who is origicitizen is that there are more job that it’s helping change a typical opportunities, especially govern- conversation in the community nally from Mexico, became a ment jobs…also being more en- to one that will open the doors to citizen in June after 35 years of gaged in the city’s activities and employment sites and changes being a green card holder.

“You are always under the imthe presidential elections [next the way human resources looks year] and I’m looking forward to at the benefits of citizenship. We pression that you will go back [to it. I think it’s our responsibility hope that through this, it will not your home country],” Montoya as a person living in the United only change the dialogue…[and] said of why it took him so long States to be more active in any re-educate employers about why to become a citizen, but he was way that [you] can,” Bidrousian citizenship is important,” Bar- grateful that the US gave him rera said. opportunities such as a home, said.

In September 2014, LA May- job and security.

More Filipino immigrants He was also motivated by his should consider the advantages or Eric Garcetti challenged 25 of being a citizen, the Filipino businesses to partner with the wife (also a US citizen) who conAmerican Service Group, Inc. New American Workforce and vinced him that he still ran the (FASGI) Executive Director Yey educate 25,000 legal permanent risk of being deported as a green Coronel noted, including the residents about opportunities card holder.

Manok Cha shared that she ability to petition family mem- that citizenship provides and came to the US from Korea in bers from the Philippines and help them apply.

Through immigrant integra- 1996 after her daughter petibring them to the US faster.

“A lot of Filipinos tend to not tion and increasing workplace tioned her, and obtained legal apply for food stamps or other diversity, business profitability permanent resident status in welfare benefits because they’re is positively impacted, accord- 2007.

“Living in a new country, I reworried that would affect not just ing to the New American Workalized that the United States is a their immigration [status], but force.

Political engagement nation that protects the rights of also their citizenship, so FASGI With presidential candidates its people and ensures opportuwill be starting another initiative soon to dispel those notions,” starting to campaign for 2016, nities for its [residents]…Slowly immigration has already become I began thinking about becomshe said.

An issue Coronel mentioned a hot-button issue that has led to ing a US citizen,” Cha said, addis that the vulnerable immigrant many controversial remarks be- ing that she initially had hesitations about applying because communities need to be guard- ing covered in the news.

Despite the anti-immigrant she was not fluent in English, ed against the scams that target them. FASGI, which is a commu- rhetoric — Donald Trump’s de- which is among the considernity organization that partners portation proposal or Jeb Bush’s ations in the citizenship eligibilwith the city of LA to provide ‘anchor babies’ comment, for ity interview.

However, with the help of the English and Tagalog assistance, example — eligible immigrants is trying to be more vigilant shouldn’t be detracted from ap- Korean Resource Center, Cha was able to become a citizen in when processing applications. A plying for citizenship.

“The fact is, immigrants want 2012. Though she was already notable scam is notaries or individuals, claiming to be lawyers, to become US citizens, regard- a senior citizen when she natuwho charge too much for appli- less of if someone is disparag- ralized, she said it’s not too late ing them or not. There is already for older immigrants and noted cation processing.

Business impact of citizen- an interest. But we do know some benefits that could be afthat negative politics lead im- forded to them like housing and ship In addition to the personal migrants to be more motivated government assistance.

Since 2011, the New Ameribenefits of naturalization, there to get involved,” said Elisa Seis said to be an effect on the US queira, director of national civic cans Campaign and its partner engagement programs for the organizations have completed work environment.

The National Immigration National Association of Latino nearly 169,000 naturalization Forum has launched the New Elected and Appointed Officials applications for legal permanent residents, and have helped them American Workforce to work (NALEO) Educational Fund.

Once immigrants become nat- save $118 million in legal fees with businesses who have eligible immigrant employees and uralized, community assistance and $31 million in USCIS appliassist them with the citizenship doesn’t stop there. It’s just “the cation fees. beginning of a journey of civic Data from the Migrant Policy process.

Institute released back in June According to Laura Barrera, participation,” Sequeira said.

Foreign-born citizens are revealed that Asians have one of the LA organizer of the New American Workforce, the initia- even less likely to register to the highest naturalization rates tive “engage[s] employers [and] vote, she said, citing a Univer- in the country, with 59 percent business owners that this is in- sity of Southern California study of the immigrant population bedeed a service to strengthen not by Manuel Pastor and Jared San- coming citizens.

As of 2013, 1.26 million Filipionly our community, but our chez. However, the study found these citizens would participate nos are US naturalized citizens; workforce.”

Currently, it is operational in in elections if they do get regis- 43,489 of whom were naturalized that year. (Christina M. Orieight cities with large popula- tered.

“We have an important elec- el/AJPress) tions of legal permanent resiby Bong Lozada

Immigrants encouraged...

Olympic dream.

“I trust my team of advisors as they all worked very hard to get terms prepared that would afford me the opportunity to be part of Gilas, if approved. I’d like to say “thank you” for all the people that worked diligently in an attempt to make a dream become reality,” said Clarkson, who made special mention of the SBP Management led by MVP and Mr. Ricky Vargas and Mr. Gregorio, Maria Espaldon of EastWest Private, and his team.

SBP executive director Sonny Barrios told Philstar.com on Tuesday that they will put to rest the eligibility issue for now as they shift their focus on the Gilas’ campaign in the FIBA Asia in the hopes of qualifying for next year’s Rio Olympics where a talent like Clarkson could come in handy.

“Pahinga muna re: (Clarkson) eligibility. No rush for now. Salamat sa suporta. We gave it a good try,” SBP executive director Sonny Barrios told Philstar.com in a text message from Geneva, Switzerland after a marathon meeting with the FIBA officials on Tuesday morning (Tuesday night in Manila).

Gilas are aiming for the gold to automatically qualify for the Olympics but a top three finish will still give them another shot through a wildcard qualifier next year. Either way, SBP is expected to go all out in securing Clarkson’s clearance to help Gilas stand a chance.

A september 11-17, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

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

OpiniOn

Features

Home stretch

AFTER occupying the highest and toughest job in the Philippines for six years, Pres. Benigno Aquino III made it clear that he might be ending his political career after next year’s elections. But with a few months left in his reign, Aquino will be working under a microscope.

In the early years of his leadership, Aquino enjoyed the highest approval ratings, gaining as much as 85 percent approval from the Filipino public. It is highest rating ever recorded by any individual included in trust probes since 1999, something that any politician would aspire for.

Traditionally, when a president is about to step down, his or her approval ratings get lower. In 2009, a year before former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ended her term, her ratings dropped to an all-time low of -11 percent. Aquino’s mother, the late former President Corazon “Cory” Aquino’s rating plunged to -1 in 1991.

Although the Aquino administration has been bloodied by unfortunate events in the past few months, the President still enjoys the support of majority of Filipinos at 54 percent. However, as the numbers go down, this also means that Aquino may be lauded for his accomplishments, but will be remembered for his shortcomings.

In a gathering with reporters and editors during the Meet the Inquirer forum on Tuesday, Sept. 8, Aquino described being the country’s president as “very daunting” but that the Filipinos’ cooperation

made his task easier.

The President also admitted that the job almost took its toll on him.

“No matter what you did, no matter what risks you took, no matter what energy you expended it seemed you couldn’t change anything. So I have gotten to that point in time that you were getting to be cynical and jaded,” Aquino revealed.

Despite the early successes of his “daang matuwid (straight path)” mantra, Aquino has also been under fire over his standing on controversial issues such as the country’s sea dispute entanglements and woes in the transportation sector and infrastructure. He is also criticized for the limited progress made in crucial areas such as corruption and poverty.

It’s really impossible to measure a politician’s performance. There are so many subjective factors to identify how formidable a politician can be. It is unjust to base the relationship of a leader and his followers on approval ratings alone. What matters more is the successful negotiations and compromises both parties extend to each other.

If the numbers are positive, the leaders are subjected to discernment. They are given an option to

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

either be complacent or work even harder to make a lasting impression to the public. If the numbers are unfavorable, the ratings serve as a wake-up call.

Aquino may have gotten the best grade compared to his predecessors, but the work obviously doesn’t stop there. Before he embarks on a sab-

batical, Aquino should focus on ironing out kinks on his reforms, and make sure tangible and reliable results are felt by his constituents. In return, Filipinos should continue to join Aquino’s undertaking, to aid him in this final stretch of the race.

(AJPress)

Pope Francis makes marriage annulment easier, faster & cheaper for estranged couples AFTER Pope Francis’s controversial statement allowing priests during the Year of Mercy to “absolve” sins committed by contrite women who have The Fil-Am had abortions, the leader of the Perspective Catholic Church has now radically revised the process by which Catholics may annul their marriages to make it easier, faster Gel SantoS-ReloS and cheaper.

This is especially significant for Filipinos back home who cannot remarry because divorce is not yet legal in the Philippines. The only option for estranged couples is to seek marriage annulment in court, the price of which is not affordable to most Filipinos. But even if the marriage is annulled judicially, Catholic couples cannot re-marry through Catholic rites unless the Church declares their previous marriage null and void.

Without going through Church annulments, Catholics who remarry through civil rites are banned from receiving the Holy Communion, deemed by many as “a painful exclusion from the church’s chief sacrament.”

“Some procedures are so long and so burdensome and people give up”, Pope Francis said in 2014, as reported

by CNN. The Catholic Church announced on Tuesday, September 8, that the following changes will become part of Catholic canon law on December 8, 2015 — the beginning of Francis’ declared “Year of Mercy”:

1. Eliminating a second review by a cleric before a marriage can be nullified.

2. Giving bishops the ability to fast-track and grant the annulments themselves in certain circumstances -- for example, when spousal abuse or an extramarital affair has occurred.

3. The process should be free, except for a nominal fee for administrative costs, and should be completed within 45 days.

Pope Francis reaffirms the “indissolubility of the marriage bond,” but also says that “charity and mercy demand that the Church, as mother, be close to her children who consider themselves separated.”

As CNN stated in its report, this move is part of a series of reforms by Pope Francis “as he seeks to make the church more responsive to the real needs of lay Catholics, especially those who have long felt marginalized by the hierarchy”.

The Pope said that in the end, the Church’s many laws and institutions must be aimed at one chief purpose -“the salvation of souls.”

Do you laud Pope Francis in his reforms to make the Catholic Church more welcoming and inclusive to people — saints and sinners alike? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFilAmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Is Aquino corrupt?

Commentary

RicaRdo Saludo “BuT he himself is not corrupt, right?”

That is a common refrain in conversations with Filipinos concerned about rising sleaze under President Benigno Aquino 3rd.

Ironically, the same thing was once said about Ferdinand Marcos, a frugal Ilocano unlike his extravagant wife Imelda.

After five years of Tuwid na Daan, many are disturbed, if not enraged that smuggling tripled from $7.9 billion in 2009 to nearly $27 billion last year, based on International Monetary Fund data.

Pork barrel more than doubled to over P20 billion annually, while anomalies in commuter trains, license plates, combat planes and choppers, and even office supplies are the biggest ever. And Aquino’s P157-billion Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) is the largest malversation in Philippine history.

Yet many Filipinos continue to give him the benefit of ever escalating doubt, believing or hoping he is personally honest. This despite Aquino’s constant defense of tainted allies and associates, his failure to probe mammoth scandals, and his refusal to push for the Freedom of Information bill, as he promised voters.

So on Year 6 of his presidency, let us sincerely ponder the question based on plain facts: Is

Aquino corrupt? Not just his allies, appointees, aides, and other associates close to him, including family members and the favored clique of schoolmates, partymates, and shooting buddies (KKK by their Filipino initials)—but Aquino himself.

It’s in the bagman Many instantly insist on the President’s integrity because he has never been known or shown to have personally solicited or accepted an inappropriate advantage.

Well, if that is enough to declare politicians clean, so many grafters would be exonerated simply by using bagmen to solicit, negotiate, and accept bribes. Indeed, only one Philippine president has been proven to have personally taken payoffs.

In his plunder trial, Joseph Ejercito Estrada was shown to have received illicit funds. Documents and testimony established that he was the true accountholder of the Jose Velarde false-name deposit in Equitable Bank, which once held billions of pesos, including P189 million in checks representing commissions on shares bought by state financial institutions at Estrada’s behest.

No other presidents were undeniably linked to payoffs. Hence, in pondering whether Aquino is corrupt, the apparent absence of actual money or other assets illicitly falling into his hands, pockets, accounts, or other personal receptacles is no reason to conclude he is clean. Otherwise, so many others would be deemed honest, even those currently accused of high

Pope Francis

Letter to the Editor

corruption by the administration.

Before leaving this issue, one might cite an instance when Aquino may have received an unlawful gift. In December 2011 he claimed RobeRt Z. CoRtes to have bought with P4.5 million of his own money a “third-hand” SOME nights ago, I missed Porsche 911 Turbo sportscar. my flight to Chicago. I’ve lived Seven months later, he said he sold in Manila for more than 20 it for the same amount. years, and I’ve been going to Fellow columnist Rigoberto the airport quite regularly all Tiglao, among other journalists, that time, but this was the first repeatedly pressed the Palace for time I’ve ever missed a flight car registrations and deeds of sale due to traffic. In the car, I wonshowing that the Porsche was re- dered out loud to the friends ally purchased then sold, and never who were with me what the gifted. No documents were pre- news would say the next day. sented. So many rightly concluded The day after, CNN reports that the purported purchase never “Downpour causes monstrous happened. But Aquino did get the traffic jam in Metro Manila.” I luxury coupe, so it must have been actually used that very same a gift—and, given its high price, it word - monstrous - to describe violates the Anti-Graft and Corrupt the EDSA gridlock, when I wrote Practices Act. to my dissertation adviser to exWhere there’s smoke… plain why I’d be missing a renThe undocumented Porsche dezvous with another professor was but one of so many whiffs of in Chicago.

Aquino smoke which got many Indeed, there was no other looking for fire. In his first year word more apt. alone, consider these dubous acts From where I was - feeling so and omissions. helpless as the clock was tickAquino declined to put the Phil- ing nearer and nearer to the ippine National Police, the main flight schedule, and I wasn’t weapon against jueteng, under even halfway to the airport 3 anti-gambling nemesis Jesse Ro- hours after leaving my home in bredo. Instead of the DILG Secre- Pasig - I saw before me a colostary, Aquino himself supervised the sal snake with scales of glitterPNP through his shooting buddy, ing red lights on one side, of then Interior undersecretary Rico blinking yellow on the other.

Puno—whom anti-vice crusader The beast was gorging itself on Archbishop Oscar Cruz named the Filipinos’ patience and sanalong with then PNP Chief Jesus ity.

Versoza as “ultimate recipients” For a while I felt I understood of jueteng payoffs. why road rage happens. I even PAGE A7 thought for a second that sui-

Beauty in the Beast: The hugot of the Pinoy’s joy cide in this country would be perfectly justified. It was inevitable in this hellish traffic, I thought for moment.

But it was only a fleeting thought. For in the car with me were people who didn’t succumb to the “inevitable.” They made a choice to be serene. The two people in the passenger seats were either sleeping like overgrown babies or laughing at the whole absurdity of the situation when they were awake. Admittedly, they were irritatingly cheerful at times, but I guess that’s better than being irritatingly grumbling.

As for the driver of the van well, what can I say? The whole time, he was sympathetic to my difficulty yet patient with what we obviously could do very little about. He taught me - who was more than a decade older than him - that one always has a choice in these situation: to be either impatient or calm, a hell to others or a source of peace.

I learned we can be virtuous in any situation, including the negatively superlative traffic of EDSA. When I realized all this, I took out my rosary and, like a child, prayed as my mother had taught me. I glanced to my right and glimpsed Our Lady of Guadalupe on the huge LED board seemingly looking and smiling at me. “Nice touch for your birthday,” I thought (it was

Sept. 8) - and I meant both the traffic and her image.

I also did some bit of mental prayer as I had learned from St. Josemaria. Having finished 30 minutes of it, I began praying to Blessed Alvaro whose anniversary of beatification - a ceremony where I was present last year - is fast approaching (Sept.

21).

Having gone to all my “heavy duty” intercessors, and realizing that no miracle would lift the van to the airport in time for my midnight flight, I decided instead to lift up my will and unite it to God’s. I prayed, “Thank you, Lord, for this chance to offer up something significant to me for whatever You want this to be offered. I ask not to know, but to love, your will.” And, as always happens in these situations, I was filled with peace.

Some hours later, I read something similar in Bl. John Newman’s “Meditations and Devotions”.

“My...perplexity may be the necessary means of some great end which is quite beyond us. He does nothing in vain...He knows what he is about... I trust thee wholly. Thou art wiser than I—more loving to me than I myself. Deign to fulfill thy high purposes in me, whatever they may be—work in and through me. I am born to serve thee, to be thine, to be thy instrument. I ask not to see—I ask PAGE A7

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: 1001 bayhill Drive, suite 200 san bruno, CA 94066 tel.: (650) 616-4150 • Fax: (650) 616-4152

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 449 Hoboken Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07306 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 • SEptEmbER 11-17, 2015

A

PH wants China’s active participation at APEC summit

by AureA

CAliCA Philstar.com

MANILA—Despite the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea, President Aquino would like China to take an active part of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Manila in November.

Aquino cited China as a major economic player and said that it would be more prudent for the Philippines to set aside the West Philippine Sea dispute.

“As far as the things that are happening in China currently, I’m sure all the other membercountries, including the observer countries we will be inviting, will be curious to know what the plans of China are

with regards to issues like the stock market, amongst other things – if there is tension with the so-called property bubble, the valuation of the yuan, and so on,” Aquino said.

“It’s an economic conference, so economic issues will be at the forefront,” he added.

Aquino said it would be best for the Philippines to wait for the decision of the United Nations arbitral tribunal rather than engage China in dialogues during APEC. “I think we have already stated our positions through various fora. So again, we will stress on the economy – economic issues – and, specifically, China’s major role in the world economy

and things that are happening in the domestic scene as it impacts the rest of the world’s economy,” he added.

Earlier, Malacañang expressed hope that Chinese President Xi Jinping would attend the APEC Leaders’ Summit in Manila in November even as relations between the Philippines and China have been strained by the West Philippine Sea dispute.

“We expect the 21 economic leaders to be in full attendance during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting... Of course, we are hoping that all of them, without exception, will be present,” Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said.

SC to ombudsman: Reply to petition on ‘pork’ probe by edu

PunAy

Philstar.com

MANILA—The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the Office of the Ombudsman to answer a petition seeking more extensive investigation and prosecution of officials behind the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) and the misuse of the pork barrel or Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of lawmakers.

In session last Tuesday, the justices of the high court decided to require the anti-graft office to lodge its comment to the mandamus petition filed by a group led by presidential aunt Margarita Cojuangco.

The SC gave Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales 10 days from receipt of notice to comply with the order.

In their petition filed last Aug. 26, Cojuangco and former Manila councilor Greco Belgica asked the high court to issue a mandamus ordering the ombudsman to suspend DAP’s authors, proponents and implementors and pursue the investigation and prosecution of persons involved in the PDAF scam.

Petitioners also sought the filing of an impeachment complaint against President Aquino if necessary, after the ombudsman probe.

Is Aquino corrupt?

PAGE A6 Aquino also kept smuggling—an even bigger source of multi-billionpeso payoffs—away from another proven sleaze fighter, former Customs Commissioner Guillermo Parayno, hired by the IMF as consultant in customs reform for his Ramos-era achievements.

What’s worse, Aquino never probed the country’s biggest surge of contraband ever—the 2011 disappearance of more than 2,000 cargo containers—even if records show who kept releasing untaxed, uninspected boxes, though hundreds already vanished.

Congress bribery and DAP malversation came in later years, along with anomalies in transport, defense, agriculture, and police agencies. Yet like townsfolk gawking at the Emperor’s new clothes in the children’s fable, huge segments of

public and media, including opponents of graft in past regimes, still think Aquino is honest.

His admirers and apologists should ask themselves if his acts would not demonstrate sleaze if done by other presidents. For instance, would they think Fidel Ramos is clean if he did not back Parayno’s cleanup against political pressure, but replaced him as Aquino did to reform-minded Customs chief John Sevilla?

Would Gloria Arroyo be cheered if she kept expressing trust in Secretaries Hernando Perez of Justice, Angelo Reyes at National Defense, and Arthur Yap of Agriculture—as Aquino does with his Cabinet—instead of letting the three go amid sleaze allegations?

And what if Arroyo did not scrap the P15-billion ZTE deal, but defended it like the P157-billion

RUSH HOUR DRENCH. Still reeling from Tuesday’s “carmageddon,” Metro Manila was drenched from thunderstorms anew on a rush hour on Thursday, Sept. 10. Netizens took to social media their rants on the heavy vehicular traffic, floods and the continuous heavy downpour punctuated with thunder and lightning.

Inquirer.net photo

They stressed that erring public officials remain scot-free despite the rulings of the high court, which voided the PDAF and DAP slow investigation, petitioners and ordered prosecution of offi- also lamented that the Departcials who misused PDAF. Belgica ment of Justice’s action is “subwas the main petitioner in the par” due to “selective prosecution.”

PDAF case.

The group also expressed fear So far, only three senators – Juan Ponce Enrile, Ramon Revil- that with the slow investigation, la Jr. and Jinggoy Estrada – have vital pieces of evidence could be been charged with plunder be- destroyed.

Belgica and Cojuangco fore the Sandiganbayan over the alleged multibillion-peso PDAF scam perpetrated by Janet LimNapoles. No official has been prosecuted so far in connection with the DAP. PAGE A6 Apart from the ombudsman’s not to know—I ask simply to be used.”

I went to bed that night filled DAP? Or if she stalled the transparency-enhancing Procurement with peace and thankful for the Reform Act of 2003, as Aquino has little blessings, instead of thinking of the inconvenience this done with the FOI Bill?

Would it have been fine for entire experience spelled and Estrada to treble pork barrel and would spell for me. I was thankshower it on legislators ousting the ful for the Shell toilet that was Chief Justice, instead of restricting available just when my bladder was near bursting; when I came the fund early in his term?

If such excesses would make out there was a long queue to other leaders corrupt in our eyes, the toilet. I was thankful that why not Aquino? Do we need a we made it back home at 1 a.m. bagman like Chavit Singson to instead of 3 a.m.; I knew there spill the beans about presidential were still people trudging their payolas, before we finally see the way home in those wee hours fire amid Aquino’s huffing and of the morning. I always have a choice to be grateful. puffing?

I am definitely not fatalistic, Yet even smoking pistols may fail to convince segments of the and like every Filipino, I expect public and the press. As the Fili- the government that takes one pino adage goes, it’s hard to wake third of my salary to give us back someone pretending to sleep. Nor the service that we deserve. would lapdogs spurn or bite the Nevertheless, I also believe that hand that feeds them. And often, we need to always maintain the we keep believing in a false idol, characteristic Filipino goodness rather than admit he has made and joy in difficulties such as these. This experience has refools of us. (ManilaTimes.net)

were joined by Bishop Reuben Abante, Quintin San Diego, Rev. Jose Gonzales and former Biliran Rep. Glenn Chong.

The high court in 2013 declared as unconstitutional the PDAF and all the laws that created it. The high court also prohibited the future creation of laws to revive the fund.

On the other hand, the high tribunal declared certain acts under the DAP unconstitutional in July last year.

In both rulings, the high court ordered an investigation and prosecution of erring officials on PDAF and also declared liable the proponents, authors and implementors of DAP.

Beauty in the Beast: The hugot... minded me once more where the Filipino gets it - the hugot, as they now say. It is in prayer and abandonment to God’s will.

There is where one finds beauty in the beast. *** Epilogue: The next day, I found myself enjoying breakfast with friends, laughing Pinoy style, over the silliest considerations. At some point, I told them about my devotion to Fr. Joseph Muzquiz who is my intercessor for things connected to the U.S. I explained to them that his intercession was weird: that he stops things from happening and gives me something better in return (I’d see that in retrospect, of course).

It’s what I call “negative intercession.”

I told them that, ironic as it may seem, I believed this was Fr. Joseph’s favor to me. I mean that the delay was made for me to have more days with friends, more productive moments of work, a better schedule over all

in the U.S., and still make it to the interview with the subject of my dissertation on Sept. 14.

I added that to “up the ante” for this intercessor, I was going to ask him to help me rebook my ticket for free. This was important for a cash-strapped student like me.

I called Asiana Airlines and told them my situation. A very nice lady spoke to me on the other end. She said, yes there’s a flight available for Chicago at midnight 2 days after. She emailed the new ticket with no questions asked.

I intend to be in the airport by 8 hours before the flight instead of the usual 3 hours. Sure, there is beauty in the beast, and I’d appreciate it when it’s there.

But I have no desires of seeing it any time soon. *** (Robert Z. Cortes is a PhD student in Social Institutional Communication at the Pontifical University of Santa Croce, Rome.

He has an M.A. in Ed. Leadership from Columbia University, N.Y.)

A september 11-17, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

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

people events arts culture entertainment

september 11-17, 2015

Sanjiv Chaturvedi

Ligaya Fernando-amiLbangSa

IndIa PhIlIPPInes

Â†ĂœÂŻÂ†Ă…ÂşĂŠĂĽĂ™Ă…Â†ÂżĂ–ĂĽÂ’ÂżÂŻÂ“Â†Ă˘ÂŻĂŠĂ…Ăœ

Ç†Â†ĂœÂŻÂ†Ă…ÂşĂŠĂĽĂ™Ă…Â†ÂżÂ“ĂŠĂ„

Ç†Â†ĂœÂŻÂ†Ă…ÂşĂŠĂĽĂ™Ă…Â†Âż

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

KommaLy Chanthavong

Kyaw thu

laos MyanMar

anShu gupta IndIa

An Asian Journal Magazine

2

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY SEpTEmbER 11, 2015

The 2015 Ramon Magsaysay Award:

Creating bold solutions to social problems in Asia

By Malou liwanag-Bledsoe/AJPress

Celebrating the greatness of spirit and transformative leadership in asia, the ramon Magsaysay award is the region’s premier prize and highest honor, comparable to the nobel Prize. the award has been bestowed on over 300 hundred outstanding men, women and organization in the past 50 years, recognizing selfless service to societies, asia and the world. this year, the awards theme is “Stoking Fresh Hopes for a better asia,” translating to the awardees’ creation of bold solutions to deeply rooted social problems in their respective societies. ramon Magsaysay awards Foundation (rMaF) President Carmencita abella also said in a previous statement, “it is (also) clear that through their solutions, each of these inspiring leaders is building more hopeful lives among their people – one smart, impassioned, and persistent step at a time.”

She added that, “While their respective social causes and leadership solutions are uniquely their own, there is one thing this year’s Magsaysay laureates all share in common: a greatness of spirit that infuses their crusade for change. all are unafraid to take on large causes. all have refused to give up, despite meager resources, daunting adversity and strong opposition.” last Monday, august 31, at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the five 2015 Magsaysay awardees joined the community of other Magsaysay laureates who have received asia’s highest honor.

The awardees Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa, Philippines For ligaya Fernandoamilbangsa, it is important for people to be reminded of the healing power of the arts amidst ethnic and religious wars. While culture is what makes people of various ethnicities, religions and nationalities distinct, it is also what connects them in the awareness of a shared humanity that is enriched by such differences. born to a prominent Catholic family, Fernando-amilbangsa had always loved dance and the arts. after marrying a schoolmate and moving to Sulu, she immersed herself in the rich cultural life of the Muslim South. in the midst of the region’s secessionist and insurgent conflicts, she turned her love for the arts into a vocation as a cultural researcher, educator, artist and advocate of the indigenous arts of the Southern Philippines, particularly the Sulu archipelago. the pangalay (“gift offering,” or “temple of dance” in Sanskrit), is her signature involvement. She has studied, moved to preserve,

Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa, Philippines

Kommaly Chanthavong, Laos

Sanjiv Chaturvedi, India

Anshu Gupta, India

Thu Kyaw, Myanmar

practice and promote the preislamic dance tradition among the Samal, badjao, Jama Mapun and tausug peoples of the provinces of Sulu and tawi-tawi.

“Safeguarding an artistic tradition like pangalay goes beyond sharing its beauty and versatility through changing times. it is promoting respect for tradition which is vital to national identity and unity,” Fernando-amilbansa said in her speech during the awarding ceremony. “a fastchanging world with unstoppable growth patterns needs the silent eloquence of an ancient symbol like pangalay or igal residing in moving body to express what it feels than what it sees. respecting such symbols can contribute to the greatness of the Filipino nation.”

Fernando-amilbangsa mainly worked in an individual capacity, and then later on inspired the formation of performing arts groups in asia, and even outside the region.

Kommaly Chanthavong, Laos in a country ravaged by war and authoritarian rule, Kommaly Chanthavong, lived through it all. losing her father in the indochina War, she was a refugee at age 13, walking over 600 kilometers from her village in eastern laos to Vientiane to escape the bombings during the Vietnam War. However, she persevered— earned a nursing diploma, married and raised a family. but the Communist takeover of Vientiane put her through the same difficult situation. She had to walk long distances from village to village, buying and selling goods between laos and thailand. Still, through these turbulent changes, one thing remained constant—her love for silk weaving, which she learned from her mother at a very young age.

Chanthavong managed to save heirloom pieces of woven silk, which were handed down from her grandmothers. in Vientiane, seeing war-displaced, rural women in desperate need of work, she used her meager saving to buy looms, and started a weaving group of ten women in her home in 1976, calling them the “Phontong Weavers.”

Her valiant efforts helped

women earn a living and revive lao silk weaving—a deeply esteemed tradition fast disappearing because of war. From a group of ten women, a network of lao artisans came together to become the Phontong Handicraft Cooperative. in fact, in 1980, the lao government leased to Chanthavong 42 hectares of land for use as a silk farm. the once barren, landmine littered area has since become the Mulberries Organic Silk Farm, dedicated to the revival of lao silk production.

“We confidently believe that a good quality of life and lasting security for individuals, families and communities will require the support of the people within laos,” Chanthavong said and added, “and from those with hearts to help, who will together build a new and bright generation that understands their responsibility for the future of their community.”

Sanjiv Chaturvedi, India every country has its share of corruption—and india is no stranger to that. transparency and accountability of the government is crucial, but success depends on ethical public servants and a vigilant public. Forty-eight-yearold government officer Sanjiv Chaturvedi is an inspirational example.

Coming from a family of civil servants, Chaturvedi joined the indian Forest Service (iFS as a divisional forest officer in Haryana state, northern india. He quickly came face-to-face with the corruption infesting government. a young, idealistic officer, he did not turn away from the irregularities that he saw but resolutely worked to correct them. among those he investigated and exposed were cases of malfeasance involving powerful officials. in his six years in the state cadre, he exposed anomalies that included the illegal construction of a canal that threatened the critical Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary; the use of public funds to develop an herbal park on private land owned by a high official; the underpayment of license fees; and the rigging of government auctions. in a foreign-funded afforestation program, Chaturvedi discovered that 90 percent of

the plantations existed only on paper, and that funds had been embezzled through the faked signatures of allegedly participating self-help groups and nonexistent workers. Forty forest officers were suspended as a result of his investigation. relentless, he did not waver even when cases involved high officials in state and central governments, well-connected businessmen, or members of his own staff. at great personal cost, he was harassed, suspended, demoted, hounded and humiliated with false charges, and put “in the freezer.” all these did not stop him. “like many other developing countries in asia, in our country also, corruption is a very serious problem. this is not just about money changing hands but is linked to basic human dignity and the dreams of our young generation in ensuring a fair recruitment system, delivery of public services, and issue of illegal mining and deforestation leading to climate change,” Chaturvedi said. “there is no such effective antidote to this problem as an honest and robust civil services.”

Anshu Gupta, India in india, anshu gupta left his job in a well-known firm to devote himself to task of finding a better, more sustainable way of helping the poor and those who been exposed to disasters. His journey began in 1999, when he and his wife contributed 67 pieces of personal clothing for the use of the homeless during winter. this experience drew their attention to the vast quantities of underutilized cloth and other materials lying unused in india’s urban households, while many rural poor die because they do not have enough clothing. thus gupta founded goonj, a volunteer organization built on the powerful, life-changing lessons he learned: that much more than random disaster relief needed to be done; that better ways of mobilizing public concern and assistance had to be organized; and most importantly, that giving must put at the center the recipient’s rights and dignity rather than the giver’s goodness and satisfaction. For gupta, extreme

poverty is actually a continuing human disaster; hence, giving must have no season. Choosing cloth as an entry point for giving, he has seen its importance for a person’s dignity and survival in a vast country where, aside from disastrous flooding, the winter cold kills many who are underclothed. gupta’s own epiphany came in meeting a poorly-clad six-year-old girl who grew up with corpses because her father eked out a living picking up abandoned dead bodies and cremating them for a fee. goonj is now a movement working in twenty-one of india’s 29 states, and is much more than a channel for clothing and other recycled articles. through its staff, its thousands of volunteers, and numerous partner organizations, goonj redistributes contributed items, and processes cloth and others to fit the identified needs of recipient groups. Dormant, underutilized cloth—including cloth scraps and loose threads— are used to fabricate essential articles like rugs, blankets, mattresses, and even clean cloth sanitary pads, as a hygienic alternative to the rags that poor girls and women use during their menses. goonj has branded them “MY Pads,” producing to date over three million sanitary pads that are the cheapest in the world, while raising the taboo subject of menstrual hygiene as an issue of social concern.

“We don’t want to change the world; we are ordinary people, we want to improve first,” said gupta. “We strongly feel that somewhere, something is wrong because despite a whole lot of us in this room and many similar rooms across the globe with so much intellect, resources, good intentions and hard work, poverty and other troubling issues are not getting resolved. the gap is growing, the issues becoming more complicated.”

Thu Kyaw, Myammar in Myanmar, a process of democratization is underway after decades of isolation, economic stagnation, and social instability due to war and state repression. in a transition that is complex and uncertain, the building of social

cohesion and a strong civil society is crucial to the country’s pursuit of peace and prosperity.

Fifty-five-year-old thu Kyaw is an exceptional figure in this story. a hugely popular, award-winning actor in Myanmar who has acted and directed in over two hundred films and scion of a wealthy family in the movie business, he is professionally successful and socially privileged. Yet, he lives simply and is a devout buddhist. in 2001, with a colleague in the movies, he founded Free Funeral Services Society (FFSS) in Yangon, to help relieve the emotional and financial burden of the poor in properly burying their dead. Such a public service is both essential and unique in a predominantly buddhist society where the proper funerary rites are crucially important but often beyond reach because of high costs, the lack of state welfare assistance, and the taboos surrounding the handling of the dead.

Starting with just a single hearse, FFSS has grown to become not only a provider of free funeral services but also of a whole complex of social services. F FSS operates almost entirely through private donations and hundreds of volunteers. its free funeral services cover everything from caskets, a fleet of hearses, mortuary facilities, burial and cremation, and funeral coordinators. to date, FFSS has undertaken over 150,000 free funeral services. a charity clinic was also opened, manned by 50 volunteer doctors and a full staff, five ambulances and 24-hour medical emergency response service. it has provided health care to over 143,000 patients since it opened in 2007. FFSS also has a school which offers free vocational training courses, classes for children, review classes for academic qualification exams and a library. “i have always believed that in movies, we actors or artists represent the true lives of our people – their feeling is my feeling,” Kyaw said. “With this is mind, i have entered the world of noble work.”

For more information on the ramon Magsaysay award Foundation, this year’s and past awardees, visit www.rmaf.org.

‘Heneral luna’ premieres in new York City himself. “i share the view of the writer and the producer of the film, ed rocha, that the film will rekindle a deeper sense of appreciation for Filipino history and culture and with the hope that it will inspire a cultural awakening, especially with the younger generations of Filipinos”, stated Consul general de leon. the movie impressed the Filipino-american viewers, young and old, as it portrayed a patriotic, blunt and poetic Consul General Mario L. de Leon, Jr. welcomes the Filipino-American Mrs. Eleanor de Leon, Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr., Heneral luna. “the film “Heneral Community during the Premier Night of Heneral Luna on 30 August 2015 held Gil Quito and Paolo Bitanga join the Filipino community in the screening of the film which also coincides with the celebration luna’ is compelling as it exposes in Anthology Film Archives Theater in Lower East Manhattan, New York. luna’s heroism through his of the National Heroes Day. described in history texts, american community members neW YOrK—Consul general confrontational anti heroism general luna was a military as well as Philippine history buffs Mario l. de leon, Jr. joined the acts”, commented the viewers. officer gifted with a quick and film enthusiasts.

Filipino-american community “a significant and powerful film mind but burdened with an in his opening remarks, the in celebrating national Heroes that must be watched, especially equally quick temper which Consul general recalled how Day at the screening of the by the younger ones” added a often caused conflict within the historians always regarded film “Heneral luna” on august community leader. revolutionaries’ ranks, including general antonio luna as the 30, 2015 at the anthology the Consul general the then-Secretary of Foreign most brilliant of the Filipino Film archives in lower east commended the Filipino affairs, apolinario Mabini and military officers during the Manhattan. the movie played community organizers for making even President aguinaldo Philippine-american War. as to a capacity crowd of FilipinoContinued on Page 5

Off broadway play ‘Postal Madness’ stars luis Pedron nYC are you ready to laugh out loud?

Postal Madness, the off broadway play is back by popular demand! after a successful, sold out run in 2014, Postal Madness makes a hilarious, triumphant return on September 10th thru October 4, 2015 at teatro latea at 107 Suffolk St nYC (F train Delancey Station).

Have you ever waited on line with only one postal worker to attend to 100 people and wondered…what is going on in the back? Have you ever wondered why going to the post office for stamps or to mail a package has to become such an adventure?

Well, creator Michael anthony, a United States postal worker for over 30 years wants you see what’s happening behind the counter walls where all the madness lives. the setting is third Stone Post office where you meet eight dynamic & different characters.

Luis Pedron

One of the diversified characters is Mr Yu, played by Pinoy luis Pedron. luis says of his character “i get bullied a lot in this play and eventually fights back and triumphs. My character is very similar to my life. the play’s creator says that a lot of the situations happened in his Postal Office. i say anyone can relate to the office politics that we portray.

Continued on Page 5

Immigration Corner

October 2015 ‘filing’ dates

EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories.

A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons

them to file for adjustment of status and work authorization.

Once their applications are filed, they would monitor the “visa issuance” priority dates.

For the first month of this new format, I am listing the “filing” priority dates together with the visa “issuance” dates, meaning if your priority date is earlier than those listed, you could be eligible to file or apply for adjustment of status or immigrant visa:

whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below.

Recently, the Department of State (DOS) and the USCIS announced a new format for the priority dates starting in October 2015. There will be two separate charts (or priority dates) for people to follow or monitor: • Dates for filing applications (earliest date when a person may file for adjustment of status or for an immigrant visa) • Application “final action dates” (dates when visas may finally be issued.)

For purposes of this article, I am listing both the adjustment FILING dates, as those are the operative dates when a person will be able to file for adjustment of status, work authorization, etc., and the visa ISSUANCE dates.

is January 1, 2007. What this apparently means is that workers in the EB-3 and OW categories may file for adjustment of status and work authorization, if the priority date on their case is earlier than January 1, 2015.

However, no visa will be issued (or adjustment of status will not be granted) until the January 1, 2007 “visa issuance” priority date is reached. Under this example, a person may file for adjustment of status if they have a priority date earlier than January 1, 2015, and renew work authorizations for approximately 8 years until the “visa issuance” date is reached.

For most people, I would think the dates on the charts for filing applications would be the ones they would be most interested in, as it would enable

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

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

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

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA IN the fading light of the evening hours on Good Friday in 2014, Shield of Roses, a group that holds vigils on the sidewalk in front of an abortion facility along a quiet street in Glendale, California,

Magazine

***

(Advertising Supplement)

GET A CHANCE TO HAVE A ONE-ON-ONE “Your Tanong, My Sagot” WITH ATTY. GURFINKEL!! Kapamilyas in Los Angeles and surrounding areas have the chance for a “free,” face-to-face question and answer with leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel about your immigration issues or problems. Just go to HYPERLINK “http://www.citizenpinoy.com” www.citizenpinoy.com to submit your immigration question on or before September 11. You will be notified if your question gets picked for a one-on-one discussion with Atty.

Gurfinkel on September 20 at their Glendale office at 219 N. Brand Blvd.

Get the chance to have a One-on-One ‘Your Tanong, My Sagot’ with Atty. Gurfinkel!

KApAMILYA in Los Angeles and nearby areas will get the chance to discuss their immigration issues with leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel up close and personal on Citizen pinoy.

Just go to www. citizenpinoy.com and submit

Abortion, an abomination “Every civil law is based on the recognition of the first and most fundamental right, the right to life.”

— Pope Francis

held its 29th Annual Good Friday Stations of the Cross led by Fr. Thomas Cusack.

3

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY S E p T E m b E R 1 1 , 20 1 5

(New format and charts for priority dates) Once the adjustment application is filed, the person would be able to renew work authorization each year, until the priority date on the separate chart for visa ISSUANCE becomes current.

By way of example, the priority date for “filing applications” for employmentbased third preference (EB-3) and other workers (OW) is January 1, 2015. However, the priority date for “visa issuance” for the same two categories

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

An Asian Journal

There were about several dozen people, young and old, including whole families, who

stood gathered on the sidewalk before the entrance of the building housing the abortion clinic. There they stood steadfast and bowed in fervent prayer in front of a sizable crucifix held by 2 young boys each taking his turn to hold it up.

After the Stations of the Cross, the group leader, Ana Maria, told the assembly how early in the morning of the same day while

your question on Friday, September 11. You will be notified if your question gets picked. And get the chance to meet Atty. Gurfinkel one-onone on September 20 at their Glendale office at 219 N. Brand Blvd., to appear on a future episode of Citizen pinoy!

This is a public service from TFC and the Law Offices of Michael Gurfinkel, and a great opportunity to get answers to your immigration questions.

So don’t forget to visit www. citizenpinoy.com to send in your inquiry on or before the September deadline.

a light drizzle fell on a very gray day, the abortion facility was busy (Translation: Humming with murderous activity.) Many women had come to the clinic seeking to terminate their pregnancies. Of those who came, only one had a change of heart, did a U-turn vowing never to come back.

Below is a post on the group’s FB. It is, perhaps, in reference to that day.

“It was tough out there today.

Sadly, there were more women going in than the usual Friday

count. The atmosphere was quite gloomy (both physically and spiritually) and there was an unusual tension. I rarely, actually do not think I have ever been cursed at, but today explicit words were being flung at me like arrows. I just kept thinking of our sweet Lord, His innocence and humility... Just as we were finishing up I noticed a van go down the street. I decided to head that way and approach them as they got out. Fifty long minutes Continued on Page 6

An Asian Journal

Magazine

4

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY S E p T E m b E R 1 1 , 20 1 5

On the PEP Front

Getting to know the real Ai-Ai Delas Alas

People, events, Places BoBBy T. yalong If laughter is truly the best medicine then ai-ai Delas alas could easily be an effectual stressreliever by merely injecting a dose of her own brand of comedy which is, of course, addicting! the Queen of Comedy remains unrivaled because of her consummate capability to tickle her audience’s funny bones and leave them dying of laughter while (still) craving for more. and, it couldn’t be denied that, aside from her well-conceptualized comedic routine and incomparable adlibs, ai-ai pays acute attention to the details of her stage costumes and obvious case of not shortchanging her audience, if only in this regard. aileen, as she is fondly addressed by friends, was born Martina aileen delas alas on November 11, 1964 to engr. rosendo delas alas and gregoria hernandez (both deceased) but was later given for adoption to a spinster aunt, Justa. a Mass Communications graduate from the far eastern university in 1985, ai-ai has had her own Cinderella-patterned life before she made it big in

Comedy is an effective stress-reliever especially when delivered by Ai-Ai

Philippine Queen of Comedy Ai-Ai delas Alas

the entertainment industry.

She worked as a saleslady in a department store while juggling school and comedy bars. It was in one of her nightly stints at Music Box along timog avenue where she was finally discovered for the mainstream entertainment that eventually changed her life dramatically. an effective comedienne, they say, should prove that she can make fun of herself before she can creditably make fun of anyone else. good- natured, tasteful, obscene, disgusting, offensive, satiric, slap-stick, stupid, and what-have-you…no doubt,

Ai-Ai’s newfound love, Gerald Sibayan

ai-ai has done them all. She has perfected her own brand of humor effortlessly. ai-ai catapulted to stardom capitalizing on her own imperfection---her elongated chin—but with innate singing prowerss and witty comedic talents to boot. She started as a co-host in Channel 7’s “lunch Date” and “Salo-Salo together” and her peculiar comic talent gave her broader opportunities with wide-ranging options. She has delineated various roles, (some even unimaginable), capably molding her to be competent and convincing in every character while simultaneously establishing her stature as an accomplished actress in the acting department.

With more than 50 movies (mostly lead roles) to her credit, “ang tanging Ina” series gave her the edge and character build-up although her numerous boxoffice comedy films remained unprecedented.

No comedienne, living or dead, has attained or surpassed what ai-ai has gainfully achieved.

In 1998 she was awarded the Best Comedy actress by Star awards for television which was duplicated the following year. the same award-giving body honored her with the Best game Show host in 2000 and after 3 years, during the 20thPMPC Star awards

EDUCATION

EMPLOYMENT

for Movies, ai-ai was named BoxOffice Queen. She finally owned the elusive Best actress trophy in 2008 during the 24th PMPC Star awards for Movies and another Box Office Queen title from the guillermo Mendoza Memorial foundation in 2009. ai-ai, being a highly quintessence exponent in the comic area, is consummately creative and possesses a great deal of spontaneity and impulsivity which make her different from other performers who are merely delegated to exclusivity like drama or narration. her lovelife is as “theatrical” as her escalating showbiz career. Initially married to singer Miguel Vera (romeo arca in real life) with whom she has two children, the succeeding men that promised heaven only gave her hell and went kaput. the ace comedienne even successfully survived a devastating monthlong relationship with a filipinoamerican. her current affair with a 20-year old remains a guessing game as to how long will it last.

But on the contrary, ai-ai, in the eyes of her family, friends, and the public, has consistently been a perfect mother worthy of emulation. from gMa Channel 7 where her television career took off, ai-ai was lured to move to aBS-CBN

Channel 2 where she lorded it over the boob tube and silver screen for 2 decades. her new home, in all fairness, gave her the treatment befitting a comic royalty…the best television projects, top money-making movies that catapulted her to such enviable status, and a lifestyle meant only for somebody who’s accomplished and successful.

But permanence was never a part of her career plan. Just recently, the restless comedienne returned to her home base and was accorded with a rousingly warm welcome as she was bestowed with the “Philippine Queen of Comedy” title. ai-ai’s funny and easy-going ways have painted for her as somebody who’s unproblematic without even considering that she’s also human with personal problems of her own. her contagious laughter, funny antics, and amusing nuances are more than enough to obscure whatever anxiety or quandary she feels within. But she never allows negativity to impinge on her work or blight her public image. actually this writer had the opportunity to work with ai-ai in two occasions: in 1988 when one of my talents, leandro Baldemor (who was then Seiko films’ prime property) was billed with the comedienne in a musical-comedy concert in Kampo (along West avenue in QC) aptly titled “ang tukso at ang Baba-e” (with screen sex goddess rosanna roces as guest) and in ai-ai’s birthday concert at the Music hall in greenhills. true enough, working

LAW OFFICE

PSYCHIC

FOR SALE

time spent with the comedienne was breezily light, uncomplicated, and easy and everything swiftly transpired sans neither exhaustion nor tedium and dreariness.

If the comedienne has a tender heart, she could also be emotionally strong. Just last Sunday, august 16, after her hosting “Sunday PinaSaya,” ai-ai received the sad news that theater actor rey Maltezo Dela Cruz and biological father of her eldest son, Sancho Vito, had died after suffering from an undisclosed illness. Despite being estranged for years without the benefit of a marriage ai-ai still holds the diseased in high esteem and decided to attend the wake of her son’s father. the comedy-actress clutches neither grudge nor hatred against her former partner but dismissed the depressing occurrence as mere fact of life. the comedienne’s public life could be read like an open book and a few bits and pieces from within her private abode could have been magnified sans her awareness but in the innermost chamber of her domicile lives a celebrity without hang-ups who lets all cautions and cares fly out of the window. as the domesticated aileen, the award-winning comedienne could cook…as in really prove to doubting tomases her mastery in the kitchen like a well-schooled chef. her excellent preferences in furniture choice, interior accents, and in creating a cozy ambience in her house easily reflect her fine aesthetic taste. her unrivaled motherly instinct and maternal Continued on Page 7

Convenience at the forefront of LBC’s service FILIPINOS fly abroad to seek greener pastures and support their families back home. But sometimes, in their pursuit to work hard to provide better opportunities for the loved ones they leave behind, they miss the operating hours of their trusted courier services.

LBC express, Inc., the Philippines’ trusted payments, remittance, courier products, mail, parcels, and cargo logistics service is giving Filipinos in North America bigger reasons to smile as they’re extending their pick-up hours in Canada, California, New York, New Jersey, and Chicago.

As part of its improved services, branches will offer box pick-up services as early as 7:30am up to as late as 8:30pm.

“As part of our pledge to move the lives of Filipinos in North America, we decided to extend our pick-up hours in order to accommodate more customers and make sure they can send their packages,” says hugo Bonilla, Senior Vice President of LBC North America. “We understand that many of them are here so they can support their family in the Philippines, so we want to make it more convenient for them to send their padama.”

The move to extend hours is part of LBC’s commitment to providing clear, certain, and convenient service. To date,

Filipinos around the world rely on its 6,400 branches, partners, and agents in over 30 countries.

In North America alone, LBC has 176 branches, partners and agents. For added convenience, customers can simply call the nearest branch, partner, or agent to schedule a pick-up, or log on at www.lbchome.com.

To ensure the proper delivery of balikbayan boxes, LBC advises customers to select the right box based on the size and items to be packed. heavier items must be put at the bottom, while fragile and easily-damaged items have to be secured in bubble wrap.

Sharp items must be padded and empty spaces be filled with crumpled newspaper or Styrofoam peanuts. It is also important to not overstuff the box and sneak in undeclared items, as these will not be insured.

LBC also advises customers not to bring prohibited items like illegal and prohibited drugs, firearms, jewelry, pornographic materials, fake and counterfeit goods, perishable goods, toxic and flammable items, and other items that may be held by the Bureau of Customs.

“LBC is the overseas Filipino’s partner in reaching out to their loved ones back home,” shares Bonilla. “As the trusted name in courier, we want to make it

faster, more efficient, and more convenient for our customers. extending our hours for pick-up is just the first step.”

For more information on LBC, please visit http://www. lbcexpress.com; or call 1-800-2411312 extn. 7007. *** LBC express, Inc. is the Philippines’ market leader in payments, remittance, courier products, mail, parcels and, cargo logistics. Through a global presence in over 30 countries in Asia-Pacific, North America, the Middle east and europe, LBC express’ network of 4,400 locations, partners, and agents is growing steadily, and commits to moving lives, businesses, and communities in the Philippines and across the globe. Founded in 1945 as a brokerage and air cargo agent, LBC express pioneered time-sensitive cargo delivery and 24-hour door-todoor delivery in the Philippines.

Today, it is the most admired and trusted courier, cargo, and remittance service of millions of Filipinos, an iconic and global Filipino brand. LBC can move it for you: visit us at www. lbcexpress.com, or call telephone +632 8585 999 (Metro Manila), 1 800 10 8585 999 (Provincial), and follow LBCexpress (Facebook and Twitter).

(Advertising Supplement)

Best fall haircuts for men and women

By Monet

Lu

The start of a new season means different things to different people. But as a hair expert, it primarily means one thing for me: new season equals new haircut.

As you embrace the arrival of Fall, it’s the best time to hit up the salon and get your fall-season haircut. But before you do, check out these chicest hairstyles and cut.

Based on my opinion, these are the 6 best “hair-looks” that are suitable for both men and women this season. Let me start with the ladies.

The Bob cut Seventy percent of my customers would request this type of cut for either of the following reasons: a new phase in their life (a relationship status-change or a new job), wants a new look to reinvent their selves, or just because someone they know—and like—is sporting it. Your reasons may or may not fall under any of the aforementioned categories, but you are definitely in the best season to get a Bob cut.

There is one thing you need to remember if you’re interested in trying a bob like Keira Knightley’s, Ginnifer Goodwin’s or Rachel McAdams’s. You have to be prepared for the attention—or the shock (if you had long hair)—that this haircut draws. Know that this cut makes a serious statement.

Don’t dare if you can’t take the heat.

Also, you have to manage your hair’s density with this look, or else the bob will look like a mushroom.

Grown-out Lob According to Marie Claire’s “20 Chicest Lobs of the Year,”‘The Lob was this year’s tour de force cut.’ But while it is lovely, it is also way too much work to blow out the strands as regularly as the LA traffic permits.

Don’t worry, I have good news! You can still grow you Lob and look like you step out of the salon every time.

Just ask your stylist to texturize your mane for body and movement.

You can also add some beachy waves to this cut. That is what’s great about a grown-out lob, you can style it in a variety of ways and it still looks chic.

One renowned stylist’s reminder: “Use a combination of oil and hold products to blow dry,” he suggested, “and style with a flat iron to add bend.”

Choppy and Messy Since we are on the subject of adding playful waves and body to your hair, let’s push it further with some carefully sliced strands.

It’s razor-meets-gorgeous! You

the film screening a reality in New York, and expressed appreciation as well to writer and co-producer ed Rocha and Francisco Ortigas and its Director Mr. Jerrold Tarog for sharing the film to the audience through its advance screening in New York.

5

Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY S E p T E m b E R 1 1 , 20 1 5

Marketing Matters Giancarlo Pacheco hAVe you ever received an email, a flier on your car, shopping catalogues in the mail, a promotional letter from your cable provider, or have seen television commercials, banner ads, or outdoor advertising? If you answered yes, then you have been a target of direct marketing. Direct marketing is a type of advertising campaign that seeks to prompt an action and usually targets a select group of consumers. The ‘middle man’ advertiser is removed, and what’s left are tried-and-true marketing tactics that have been proven as effective. You might feel that this form of marketing is a bit archaic, but would it surprise you to know that cable, satellite, and telecom companies such as DirecTV and Verizon FiOS are continually utilizing direct advertising to reach out and communicate to their existing clients and prospective customers with tremendous success? In this article, I will focus on the most common form of direct marketing, which is direct mail.

Direct mail is not only utilized by cable, satellite, and telecom providers, but also by small businesses such as dry cleaners, local restaurants, and even your neighborhood auto body shops. The approach is to mail out promotions or coupons to everyone in the immediate area of your business establishment. This method is called a “spray and pray”

The power of direct marketing

approach because it is not exactly targeted to a specific recipient, rather it is sending to a targeted zip code and recipients are often random. This may not be the best way to get your ad noticed since it is being distributed with other businesses that may have a more compelling or relevant offer, but coupons are still effective especially with the older demographics. In fact, I often rummage through my “junk mail” pile for coupons looking for a good deal.

Now let’s talk about more popular brands as they tend to use direct mail a bit differently. These companies have the resources to buy highly targeted lists of prospects and addresses from mailing houses. This process can be quite expensive depending on how targeted you want to be with your marketing efforts. For example, a list targeting Filipino males in Daly City, California, between ages 21-35, can cost you thousands of dollars. These large brands also tend to utilize agencies to create attractive direct mail pieces and clever packages including compelling promotional offers just to stand out from their competitors.

Many of these brand offers are so alluring that prospective customers jump on to the new service or make the switch from a competitor.

One of the greatest advantages of direct mail is that businesses and organizations are granted extensive measurability. Companies enjoy the benefits of tracking not only their target audience as a whole, but also on an individual level For example, a retailer who sends its catalogues to a new neighborhood

can track which households are buying and determine whether the area is worth pursuing. In contrast, companies are much more limited in tracking their customers via TV ads. Perhaps a customer sees a TV ad and makes a purchase. There’s nothing tracking that in-between period. With so many other factors in place, where the credit goes is often blurred. Direct marketing helps the company zone in on potential customers while keeping the customer loyalty.

Let’s recap. Determine your budget whether you will be able to purchase a targeted list of addresses or you would like to take advantage of the US Postal Service circulars. Secondly, design and develop a mail piece that is attractive and memorable. Next, include a special offer to get customers and prospects to take action. Take advantage of USPS bulk discounts. And finally, be sure to capture the new customer data so that you can keep customer coming back for more. Remember, sometimes the oldest method of marketing can yield the biggest benefit for your business. ***

Giancarlo Pacheco is the President of PCA, a full-service marketing and communications agency with offices in Los Angeles and New York. For over a decade, the agency has been a leader in providing integrated campaigns for Fortune 1000 companies. PCA has served a wide array of clients including Verizon, Gilead Life Sciences, Warner Music Japan, Samsung Electronics, Philippine Airlines, International Media Distribution, Anheuser Busch, Diageo, Lionsgate Entertainment and the Los Angeles Dodgers. For more information, please visit www.plancagency.com.

Off Broadway play ‘Postal Madness’...

From Page 2 You will definitely laugh because you probably have been in that situation before. It’s a dream come true for me to be in a show for a full month, a grueling 20 performances in total. I’m finally a working actor.

Thank you to the Postal Madness family. Thank you God!” The complete cast is composed

may check out Kim Kardashian for inspiration for this style.

If you think this should be your look for autumn, enhance the “messy” effect by using a curling wand on your waves. Use plenty of texturing sprays to out some volume at the roots.

The Mixie Mixie is portmanteau for midlength pixie. This haircut is best suited for fine to normal strands that are straight. I suggest this cut for those who aren’t ready for a super short style, but want something short yet feminine.

For the men After the goddesses, we move on to the gods of killer haircut.

And what easier way to describe the famous cuts is to name the celebrities who are sporting such looks. Allow me to borrow and coin the styles with their names.

The “Ryan Gosling” Cut Google it if you don’t agree with me, but I must say this style is suited for any face or hair type. Ask your stylist for something high and tight on the side. Make the top about an inch longer and polish the look by combing it with a matte pomade. I must warn you: this is a head-turner look. Proceed with caution.

The “Chris Pine” Cut If you’ve seen “Starship enterprise,” you pretty much have an idea of your new look sans the highlights. Rock the “Chris Pine” cut by going shorter and with much tight on the sides. And please make sure you go easy on the pomade or you just might become the next most eligible bachelor.

For Curly Hair I also have a recommended cut for those who have curly hair. This is also for those who want a more

modest, subtle and less-attentiongrabbing look.

If you’ve got curly hair and a more angular face, go with a round cut. You’re going to have to ask your stylist to cut about a half an inch longer on top than on the sides for best results.

And there you have it, ladies and gentlemen. These fall haircuts are sure to make you look trendy this season. For a more detailed explanation and on-point demonstration, visit Monet salon at its brand new location at 20113 Vanowen St., Winnetka,CA. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary allnatural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

‘heneral Luna’ premieres...

From Page 2

An Asian Journal

During the talk back, Mr. Luis Francia, hunter University history Professor and author of “A history of the Philippines From Indios Bravos to Filipinos”, noted how rich the Philippines has with stories that still need to be told by the film makers. he also highlighted the tribalism

that led to grave divisions in the revolutionary movement which led to assassinations of Antonio Luna, Andres Bonifacio and others which were crucial in the revolution’s eventual defeat. he opined that such mentality remained a challenge in the Philippines today.

of NY and NJ based actors Joe Genesis, Brian Wicker, Liza Marie Galletti - Ramirez, Paul David Miller, Luis Pedron, Will Strong, Mark Mason and Frances Lozada. Postal Madness was created by Michael Anthony, directed by Frances Lozada and written by Peter Crowe.

(For Mature Audiences

Only) SHOW TIMES: Thursdays thru Saturdays at 8pm Matinees: Saturdays and Sundays at 3pm. Go towww.SMARTTIX. COM to purchase tickets $20. ($25 at the door) The run will be from SEPTEMBER 10th thru OCTOBER 4, 2015 at TEATRO LATEA 107 Suffolk St NYC (F, M, J, Z Trains Delancey Station).

An Asian Journal

6

Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY S E p T E m b E R 1 1 , 20 1 5

Vic Sotto: My family backs wedding with Pauleen

by ChuCk

Smith Philstar.com

mANILA— Vic Sotto vehemently denied rumors that his family and children do not support his plans to tie the knot with longtime girlfriend Pauleen Luna.

The veteran TV host recently announced that he and Pauleen are engaged, after being in a relationship for over four years.

“With my family, with my brothers, boto naman sila kay Pauleen,” Vic said. “And my children, I’m just so blessed with beautiful and loving children.”

The 61-year-old comedian also revealed telling his children about his wedding plans with Pauleen “a long time ago.”

C

“Yung mga kontra-kontra, tsismis lang ‘yan,” he said.

Vic currently has four children: Danica, oyo Boy, Vico and Paulina.

His children was previously rumored to be against their father’s romance with his “eat Bulaga” cohost, an issue Danica and oyo Boy denied in interviews with the press. meanwhile, Vic said he and Pauleen are planning to hold the wedding before the end of the Year of the Goat.

He also confirmed reports that they’re planning to hold a “quiet wedding.”

“Nagkasundo kami na simple lang. I’m not the type naman na magarbo, engrande. Basta ‘andoon lahat ng mga kaibigan, pamilya,

alendar of Events

across

Pauleen Luna and Vic Sotto

okay na,” Vic said, adding they will announce the date of the wedding in due time. “Wala naman kaming planong itago.”

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 SEPTEMBER 13

PHii tribute 2015 Awardees’ orientation The Philippine Heritage Institute International invites Tribute 2015 awardees to a luncheon and orientation on September 13, at the Holiday Inn Select, 14299 Firestone Blvd., La Mirada, CA 90638. Networking and fellowship are first on the agenda among PHII Trustees and honorees. Marc Jonathan de Jesus will have an audio-visual presentation about PHII. Overall chair Norma Merza and co-chair Lily Lara will acquaint awardees with necessary information about Tribute 2015 onOctober 3, at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel. For questions, contact: president Josie E. de Jesus (714) 272-0300;joestarisdejesus@gmail.com; event overall chair Norma Merza (562) 947-0248; norma.merza@yahoo.com; or co-chair Lily Lara at nogardc@aol.com.

SEPTEMBER 19

Citizenship Day 2015 The Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association is having a FREE Citizenship Day event on September 19, from 10:00am to 3:00pm, to assist low-income, 18+ immigrants eligible for US citizenship with the full naturalization process. Every case will be reviewed by a legal attorney. Please call us at 407-841-8310 ext. 3123 for an appointment and any questions you may have. Thank You!

Heal the bay Coastal Cleanup Day Heal the Bay, a volunteer-run nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the health and safety of Southland beaches and waterways, will host the 26th annual Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, Sept. 19. More than 10,000 Southland residents and volunteers will mobilize from 9am to noon at more than 50 cleanup sites, from Compton to Malibu, to help remove trash along Los Angeles County beaches and inland waterways, parks, creeks, lakes, highways and alleys. Coastal Cleanup Day participants have collected more than 1 million pounds of trash in Los Angeles County since 1990. By removing debris from beaches and inland neighborhoods, volunteers reduce blight, protect marine animals and bolster the regional economy. Join the world’s biggest single-day volunteer event! Attendees will receive hands-on education about the easy steps they can take to local watersheds and neighborhoods clean, and participants will be given a voucher for free sustainable seafood tacos at any Rubio’s restaurant while extensive supplies last. For volunteers, Cancer Treatment Centers of America will be distributing free tubes of sunscreen at all sites, and Heal the Bay will be hosting a number of community-building activities, such as a sand castle-building contest. Heal the Bay seeks volunteers of all ages and physical abilities, and no special equipment or experience is necessary. For registration information and cleanup tips, please visit www.healthebay.org/ccd.

Contact Alys Arenas, (310) 451-1500, x148, aarenas@healthebay.org, or Matthew King, (310) 451-1500, x137; cell: (310) 463-6266 for more details.

PiliPino inter-Club oPen invitational Golf tournament The 11th annual PILIPINO INTER-CLUB OPEN (PICO) is open to fellow master golfers from the tri-state area. The charity tournament will be held on Saturday, September 19, at Royce Brook Golf Club (201 Hamilton Rd, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844). It will be a shotgun start @ 1:30 pm. Registration is $120 each player; includes golf cart and food after the game. Come early for registration, refreshments, and mini contests. Come and join the quest for individual and team honors by class. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Family Center Christian Church, and donations are 100% tax deductible. Sign-up now at http://www. spgolfclub.com/PICO. For more details, please contact Ed Badiola 908-531-7377, or Justil Cruz 973-926-1400.

ublA: Kaaldawan of the 41st Penafrancia Fiesta 2015 Most Reverend Gerald Eugene Wilkerson, D.D., V.G., former Bishop of the San Fernando Valley Pastoral Region, will preside over a concelebrated High Mass to highlight the Kaaldawan (Feast Day) of the 41st Annual Penafrancia Fiesta on Saturday, September 19, at 10:00am, through the United Bicolandia Los Angeles (UBLA). Bicolanos are inviting all Marian devotees, Filipinos and other Catholics regardless of ethnicity, to join them in the day-long fiesta in honor of their regional patroness, Our Lady of Penafrancia, in the open air of Lincoln Park and Lake: 3529 N. Mission Road, Los Angeles, CA 90031 (corner E. Valley Blvd.) near downtown. There is a solemn Eucharist Mass schedule with music by Saint Anthony Claret Holy Rosary Choir, followed by a kaaldawan celebration including a novena, Fluvial parade of the Holy Virgin, lunch, and cultural entertainment highlighting Bicolano and Filipino culture.

The 8-day novena will start on the afternoon of Friday, September 11 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hollywood. The 2015 Penafrancia Fiesta will end on Sunday, September 27, with a fellowship ball at Montery Hill Restaurant (3700 W. Ramona Blvd., Monterey Park, CA 91754) at 5:30pm. For a full schedule, novenas, and more information, please contact UBLA President Lanie Berrei (818) 281-3169.

SEPTEMBER 20

Virgen De los remedios 59th Canonical Coronation Anniversary

When: Sunday, September 20, (2:30 PM Assembly for procession) Where: Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels (555 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012) Contact: Vidal Aguas, aguadelosangeles@aol.com.

S E P T E M B E R 24

laudato Si (Praise be to you, o lord) caring for our common home Laudato Si (Praise Be To You, O Lord!) is Pope Francis’ encyclical on “CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME” which addresses the grave impact of climate change in world’s communities and ecosystems. On Thursday, September 24, Climate Scientist, Dr. Josh Fisher, from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory will explain the scientific foundation of climate change, which is well-aligned with Pope Francis’ letter. The event will take place 7 to 9 PM at Holy Name of Mary Parish in San Dimas (724 E. Bonita Avenue, San Dimas, CA 91773). All are invited, and free refreshments and childcare will be provided. For more information, please contact Charlie Martinez, Director of Pastoral Ministries at charlie@hnmparish.org.

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

AEGIS IN NYC. HaloHalo is proud to present its inaugural concert this Friday, October 9 in New York City with the quintessential OPM (Original Pinoy Music) Rock band icon – Aegis. It will be held at the BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center on 199 Chambers St. Tickets are available through the BMCC Tribeca PAC website, the BMCC box office, and the Phil-Am Foodmart stores in Woodside, New York and Jersey City, New Jersey.

Cardinal Tagle in Bethlehem, PA on Sept. 19 CARDINAL Luis Antonio G Tagle, Archbishop of manila, will be the keynote speaker at the make Sad eyes Smile Fundraising event on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel and Conference Center in Bethlehem.

The Cardinal, who was tagged the Asian Pope Francis by the Boston Globe, is known for asking the poor, living on the street, into his office for lunch and riding a tricycle to his office. His great calling to serve the Lord by caring for the poor, are obvious as he was elected president of Caritas Internationalis, the church’s organization representing 164 Catholic charities around the world, in July. make Sad eyes Smile is an event to raise funds to place a mobile clinic in the Philippines to care for the poor, particularly the street children.

The fundraising event starts at 11am at the Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel and Conference Center, 3000 Gateway Drive, Bethlehem.

From 11 am to noon, individual professional photographs of

antendes with the Cardinal and Bishop John Barres, Allentown Diocese will be taken. Lunch is served beginning at noon with the Cardinal’s keynote speech to follow. At 5 pm a mass to he held at St. Anne’s Church, easton and Washington Ave in Bethlehem.

Tickets can be purchased for the event on line at www. makesadeyessmile or by calling 484-935-1573. Tickets for adults are $100 and for children accompanied by two adults the ticket will be $25 each. A large percentage of the adult cost is tax deductible.

Cardinal Tagle, is one of the most respected religious figures on Facebook and You Tube. His Word exposed is a weekly video with The Cardinal’s reflections on the readings is watched by many on You Tube and Facebook. In an interview on Radio Vaticana he expressed in his definition of Charity, “ These people (the poor) are forced into poverty so their context of life is something like lack of love so just being able to assure them in little

Cardinal Luis Antonio G Tagle

acts of kindness that love still exists.”

According to Father Robert Kosek CRSP the goal of the Barnabite Heart to Heart mission, the sponsoring group, is to spread God’s love through service to and communion with the poor by providing support for a long and honorable life. “make Sad eyes Smile will help the poor street children in the Philippines by giving them medical and dental care,” Father Continued on Page 7

‘Ang Pagdating ng Krus at Espada’ set for Oct. 2 Come to the encore presentation of “Ang Pagdating ng Krus at espada,” The Coming of the Cross and Sword, a historical operetta adapted from The Story of the Visayan enrique, First Circumnavigator of the Globe, and the Voyage of Admiral Ferdinand magellan, Book I of Las Islas Filipinas, by Cristo Rey Alunan. october 2, 2015, from 6 - 9 pm at Kalayaan Hall, Philippine Consulate, 556 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036. General admission $50.00 donation and $25.00 for Seniors and Students, including refreshments.

Proud sponsor is PAGASA Social Foundation, Inc. (www. pagasasfi.org), Philippine American Group for Aging Seniors in America (not for profit 501c3), as a fundraiser for Senior services at their Community

Center located at 115-03 Atlantic Avenue, Richmond Hill, NY 11418.

Produced by Purple Pillars Production of The Nursing office extended Arts Program, (www.thenursingoffice.com/ lasislasfilipinas.org), the main theme of the zarzuela Filipina series is the Filipinos’ struggle for freedom and triumphs of selfdetermination, beginning with Lakan Lapu-Lapu’s victory over magellan’s forces.

We want to describe, interpret, and dramatize Philippine colonial and contemporary history from our own Filipino perspective. We also want to affirm and demonstrate a vibrant and spirited culture that has existed among prehistoric and pre-colonial Native Indigenous peoples in the 7,107 islands presently known as the

Philippine Archipelago our vision-mission is to raise consciousness of global Filipinos with bonds of a confirmed identity of WHo We ARe, and ground Filipino youth with a firm and proud understanding of Filipino culture, heritage, and values.

Yes, why did Lapu-Lapu kill magellan? Ask your friends.

Better yet, come and watch “Ang Pagdating ng Krus at espada” to discover the best-kept secret in Philippine history!

For information: Consuelo Almonte (347-488-9386/718849-5204) connie_almonte@ yahoo.com myrna D. Santos (718-6872581) myrnyc@msn.com Sheila Logrono (347-3397116) sglogrono@yahoo.com Ludy Resurreccion (718-6443513) ludydavao@outlook.com

Abortion, an abomination

From Page 3

later she, her husband and their two little boys left the sidewalk never to return! At one point he said to me “excuse me lady, but you are wasting your saliva and time, she has made up her mind and she is very stubborn.” I replied “don’t worry I have plenty of saliva and God gave me strong legs to stand here as long as I need to and as a matter of fact, when it comes to being stubborn I am definitely one of God’s most stubborn donkeys so it’s okay”. Please pray for m. and her family. All thanks and praise be to God! Just before the Good Friday group dispersed, a woman gave a heartfelt testimony of how she nearly had an abortion years ago but through the intercession of the Shield of Roses decided against it and grateful for having done so. At the time, she was in an abusive, violent relationship and she thought it best to terminate her pregnancy. She brought her beautiful daughter along. She says being with her daughter now gives her so much joy and peace.

Pope Francis calls abortion an abominable crime. on April 11, 2014, he told an Italian pro-life organization that human life is “sacred and inviolable” and “every civil law is based on the recognition of the first and most fundamental right, the right to life.”

“The unborn child in the womb is the most concrete example of innocence,” he said.

He doubles down and reiterates the unflinching position of the Catholic Church from Vatican II which was called by Pope (now newly minted Saint) John XXIII in January 1959, “From the moment of its conception, life must be guarded with the greatest care, while abortion and infanticide are unspeakable crimes.”

That was 55 years ago. He further said, “It is therefore necessary to reiterate the strongest opposition to any direct attack on life, especially the innocent and defenseless…”

“If you look at life as something that is consumed,” Pope Francis said, “it will also be something that sooner or later you can throw away, with abortion to begin with.”

“Human life, however, is ‘a gift from God’ and if it is accepted as such, then you have before you a valuable and intangible asset, to be protected by all means and not to be discarded.”

Pope Francis goes further and deeper than his predecessors. He connects the dots. He links the pro-life message of the Church to his view of the global economy and its throwaway culture – a major thrust of his pontificate.

Socialists and liberals have sadly latched onto his deep and abiding concern for the poor and disadvantaged by trying but failing to spin his love for mankind to align with their warped view of seemingly caring for the poor but actually controlling the poor

for political gain. The socialist spin is being done in the hope of gaining traction by riding with the authority and the increasing popular acceptance of this pope.

Awake the Christian soldier in you! If the Holy Spirit moves you to stand for life as a gift of God and want to be a prayer warrior and/or to act and get behind the increasingly strong pro-life movement, currently experiencing quiet seismic shifts around the world, look locally for opportunities to protect the unborn.

Shield of Roses is a Catholic pro-life charitable organization promoting the Church’s teachings concerning the sanctity of the pre-born child. Its members have steadfastly stood witness to abortion facilities where babies, like our Lord Jesus Christ, are led to their deaths. members try to talk to the women but if words fail, then their prayerful presence, like the presence of St. John, St. mary magdalene, and our Blessed mother standing at the foot of the Cross, continue to stand witness to the dignity of the innocent and defenseless lives being lost in abortion clinics.

If you want to know more, visit www.shieldofroses.com or you can call Anna maria at (818) 242 3912. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

An Asian Journal

2nd Annual Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award on Nov. 28

New York, NY – The order of the knights of rizal – New York Chapter will hold its 2nd Annual Dr. Jose P. rizal Award for excellence in Medicine, education, Youth, and Arts & Literature on Saturday, November 28, 2015, at the Astoria world Manor (25-22 Astoria Blvd., Astoria, NY 11102), following its successful celebration of the Philippine National Hero last year.

The organization is searching for outstanding Filipino professionals in the fields of medicine, education, and arts/ literature, as well as exceptional youth who excel both in and out of the classroom. All Filipinos and Filipino-Americans with Philippine heritage by consanguinity and not affinity are eligible for the award. Nominees cannot be related by blood or affinity to a knights of rizal member of any chapter. with the exception of the Youth Award, self-nominations are not permitted. There are no posthumous awards. The nomination deadline is 11:59pm on Saturday, october 3, 2015.

Awardees will be notified by email no later than october 10, and

their names will be published by the Filipino media.

Medicine Award Strong candidates will have: 1) practiced medicine for a minimum of 25 years; 2) shown a deep commitment to improving his or her practice; 3) written books or published articles related to medicine; 4) shown outstanding leadership in his or her community.

Education Award Strong candidates across a wide range of education sectors will have demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following areas: 1) advancement of knowledge through research, teaching, publications, or technology as related to the field of education; 2) commitment to exceptional education practice in the classroom as a teacher, principal, or district leader; 3) innovation in addressing a challenge in education; 4) leadership in introducing or implementing educational policy at the local, state, federal, or international level.

Arts & Literature Award Strong candidates will have:

1) performed in the Tri-state area and/or internationally; 2) exhibited art work in the Tri-state area and/or internationally; 3) written books, novels, poems, and/or short stories; 4) made an indelible impact on the Filipino community through his or her work in the arts and/or humanities; 5) maintained artistic and intellectual integrity.

Youth Award Strong youth candidates will have demonstrated excellence in the following categories: 1) Academics – particularly in the sciences, the arts, and literature; 2) Talent – visual arts, performing arts, and/or athletics; 3) Leadership –community involvement and volunteerism, student government, clubs, and church. Youth candidates may selfnominate. Youth candidates are required to write an essay about how Dr. Jose P. rizal’s vision for the Filipino people has impacted his or her own life. Please also include two letters of recommendation from an adult mentor, a teacher, and/or your school principal. The letters cannot be written by a family member.

Getting to know the real Ai-Ai....

From Page 4 liability more than consume her free time if only to make up for the long period she’s out on shooting or out-of-town performances.

Ai-Ai’s compassionate nature is best demonstrated through her charity works and uncovered community services… although a few saw print and, in some occasions, because of her celebrity status, being televised. Take the case of Jiro Manio, the awardwinning “Magnifico” young actor who played one of her children in “Tanging Ina” and recently hugged the news due to depression, drugs, and family-related dispute. The kind-hearted comedienne frittered away no time in extending whatever help she could offer in order to save the young actor’s life and plummeting career. She even went out of her way to track down Jiro’s Japanese father.

And not to forget her being

pious and an august devotee of the Virgin Mary. Although exhausted from her weekend overseas commitments, the super comedienne hosted a birthday celebration for her favorite patron saint last Tuesday, September 8.

Attended by her family, closed friends, and, of course, her “kakambal” Marian rivera, a Virgin devotee, herself, who came heavy with her first baby despite last minute invite.

Incidentally, Ai-Ai is all set to reclaim her box-office dominance in the forthcoming Metro Manila Film Festival where she’s paired anew with Vic Sotto (after their successful team-up) in the romantic-comedy with a working title: “romcom-in Mo Ako.” The said 2015 MMFF entry will also feature eat Bulaga’s trending love team: Alden richard and Maine “Yaya Dub” Mendoza, most currently known as “AlDub,” which

impressively garnered 3.6 million tweets in just one day.

Ai-Ai Delas Alas is raring to be a Golden Girl on her birthday soon but the Funny Lady doesn’t feel having completely achieved what she really wanted in life.

At her current status as an established and award-winning actress, singer, and comedienne, aside from wallowing in luxury from the fruits of her labor, the multi-faceted performer still aims for more…not on the material side but more on the humanitarian…her own way of sharing whatever she was bountifully blessed with while trying to maintain her enviable standing in the society where she dwells and the entertainment arena, the source of it all and where she rightfully belongs.

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

7

Magazine

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY S E p T E m b E R 1 1 , 20 1 5

BCBP-New Jersey holds regular meetings in Jersey City JerSeY City, NJ—The Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP) – New Jersey Chapter announced recently that monthly meetings in Jersey City, New Jersey are held every 3rd Saturdays of the month, from 8am to 1030 am eastern Time at the 440 Diner along route 440 North in Jersey City. The monthly meetings are open to all businessmen and

professionals who are interested to attend.

BCBP is a Catholic, Christian organization dedicated to the evangelization of businessmen and professionals, who are decision makers and change agents in the marketplace and the professions in order to assure more and more that business dealings and practices in the companies where members work are imbued with

justice, honesty, and integrity with respect to all stakeholders in the business and to bring about genuine development of our country that will benefit all.

For inquiries on BCBP-New Jersey and attendance to the monthly meetings please contact: rafael (Joel) Adriano at 201-2389561; earl Francisco at 201-6750742; Jun romanillos at 917-8619088.

Cardinal Tagle in Bethlehem...

From Page 6

robert stated. Continuing he said “by doing that, we are showing them God’s Love and helping them feel and live better.”The group needs to raise $100,000 to obtain the van, build the interior, equip it and operate for the first year, which is the reason for the visit of Cardinal Tagle. recently Bishop Barres joined Father robert, founder of the sponsoring organization, for an interview about the event held to serve the poor and the involvement of Cardinal Tagle. “Part of the Catholic Church’s global mission of evangelization is to reach out to the needs of the poor, the needs of those that suffer,” the Bishop said. He continued saying that organizations such as Caritas Internationalis, the Pontifical Mission Society, of which he is the episcopal Liaison for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Catholic relief Services all have the goal of bringing the “compassion and mercy of Christ to those that suffer most in this world.”

In commenting about Cardinal Tagle’s visit Bishop Barres said “we are so excited by the Cardinal’s presence in the Allentown Diocese in September. He is a global figure

and has a beautiful contemplative spirit as Archbishop of Manila. He has experienced the suffering of the people in the Philippines. He is deeply connected to Pope Francis.

I think his presence among us is an expression of the Pope’s vision and approach to global poverty.” He went on to say that the approach in that the church is similar to a combat field hospital that tends to all of the different wounded in humanity.

In a way the mobile medical van it like a combat hospital for the hurting. It was the idea of Father robert, the group’s founder when he returned in 2014 from the Philippines. The Father had been stationed previously in the Philippines as rector for the the Barnabite Seminary when he realized the immense poverty and he started the House of Care of Fr. Semeria, or a school for the poor children which provided at first just education then it added health and food. “ I noticed that beside just education there was a great need for poverty and health, Then really after my recent trip and talking to Cardinal Tagle, we thought about how can you reach , and as the Bishop spoke about reaching the

needs of the children. This became wonderful opportunity for us (Heart to Heart) to be a team with Bishop Barres and the Diocese of Allentown,” stated Father robert.

According to Father robert simple things such as a vitamin and some food can make a big difference. He tells about when he was just there in 2014, he took some time to bring rice out to the poor. “The look on their faces when they got the rice was unbelievable,”he said. when he saw a very sick child he asked the mother about going to a doctor, she explained that she did not have the money. After asking how much (the amount she said was about $7) he gave her money, she thanked him saying said that she couldn’t take it because there was no money to even take a tricycle to the Doctor.

The money needed all together was equal to about $10 in US dollars. So little to us can do so much for the children of the Philippines Bishop Barres added “Cardinal Tagle’s presence among us, his support of the raising of funds for the medical van is a wonderful opportunity for the people of the Diocese of Allentown to raise their consciousness of the people of the Philippines.”

An Asian Journal

Magazine

8

The Asian Journal N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY SEpTEmbER 11, 2015