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Volume 8 – Issue 49 • 16 Pages

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

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Lina: PH gov’t losing up to P5-B through balikbayan box smuggling

by Prinz

Magtulis and Christina Mendez Philstar.com

mANILA—the government is losing about P3 billion to P5 billion a year from smuggling using balik-

likbayan boxes should have been implemented to prevent further revenue loss for the government.

Lina reluctantly apologized before the senate over the brouhaha caused by the planned opening and inspection of balikbayan boxes in

bayan boxes, although the Bureau of Customs (BoC) has only made 38 such seizures over the past six years, valued at P12.3 million.

Customs commissioner Alberto Lina told the senate committee hearing a tighter inspection of ba-

an effort to curb smuggling. senate President Pro-tempore ralph recto expressed concern over the planned increase of charges for a container of balikbayan boxes from P80,000 to P120,000, PAGE A2 Filipino teacher Jaime Ballesteros receives a recognition from the City of Los Angeles on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

AJPress photo by Ding Carreron

USA

Filipino teacher honored

by White House, LA City Hall

DATELINE Filipino immigrant in Hawaii arrested for fatally stabbing wife from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

ALIAmANU, hawaii – A filipino immigrant was arrested on suspicion of killing his wife by stabbing her several times during an argument August 17.

Police arrested Pablo fiesta Jr., 46, who was charged with second-degree murder The victim, Cecilia Fiesta, in the death of his reportedly worked two jobs so wife, Cecilia fiesta, she could send for her husband 43, in their home at and child from the Philippines 1017 Puolo Drive. last year. their 10-year-old daughter saw her father stab her mother in their living room about six times in the back and torso, according to a police report filed in honolulu District Court.

Cecilia fiesta was taken to a hospital Stabbing suspect, Pablo where she was proFiesta. nounced dead. Pablo fiesta gave himself up to police a day after the stabbing. he was detained at oahu Community Correctional Center in lieu of $500,000 bail.

Cecilia fiesta reportedly held two jobs to bring her husband and a 17-year-old daughter to hawaii from the Philippines about a year ago. (inquirer.net)

by Christina

POST OFFICE. Liza Macaranas of the parcel section chief at the Manila Post Office starts her day by organizing stacks of boxes sent in

by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from all around the world. President Benigno Aquino III recently intervened in the controversial customs inspections of Balikbayan Boxes, even as some OFW rights organizations declared a “Zero Remittance Day” on Friday, Aug. 28.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma

Los ANGeLes - In high school, Jaime Ballesteros didn’t think he would be able to attend college because of his undocumented status. originally from Bacolod City, Philippines, Ballesteros was 11 years old when his family moved to Jersey City, New Jersey after his father obtained a temporary work visa for an accounting job. however, when the recession hit, Ballesteros’s father lost his job and the visa. “overnight my family became undocumented,” Ballesteros shared. “I never really knew how to deal with it until I opened up to my teacher during the junior year of high school.” he kept his undocumented status a secret at first, but eventually confided in his english teacher, ms. solberg, who helped him research colleges that could offer merit scholarships for undocumented students. Ballesteros went on to Drew University, a liberal arts college in New Jersey that granted him a PAGE A3

Marcos: BOC should NY-based press group calls for change its policies protection of Philippine journalists

by JeffersOn

antiPOrda ManilaTimes.net

City Council approves LA’s bid for 2024 Olympics Los ANGeLes is another step closer toward the bid for the 2024 olympics, following the city council’s approval on tuesday, sept. 1.

Last week, a city council subcommittee focused on the olympics approved recommendations city analysts made on the contract, before sending it to the full council for a vote.

In a 15-0 vote on tuesday, mayor eric Garcetti now has the authority to pursue the bid with the Us olympic Committee (UsoC). the council added that it wants to be included in the process for the next two years and vote on the final bid agreement that will be presented to the International olympic Committee (IoC). the UsoC also confirmed at a press conference on santa monica Beach that LA will be its candidate to the IoC. “this is a great day for Los Angeles and a great day for the olympic movement,” Garcetti said at the press conference.

Boston was a leading contender for the 2024 olympics; however, in July the city dropped out due to the lack of public support and questions about taxpayer spending. the UsoC said pollPAGE A2

M. Oriel/AJPress

Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

the Bureau of Customs (BoC) should change its policies to make them more “filipino friendly” because the agency is indirectly violating laws that grant incentives to overseas filipino workers (ofWs) and athletes with its onerous duties and impractical rules, sen. ferdinand marcos Jr. said .

“If the law grants certain privileges or incentives to our ofWs and athletes, the bureaucratic procedures must lean toward making it easy for PAGE A2

by agnes

COnstante AJPress

foLLoWING the death of another filipino journalist on thursday, Aug. 28, the Committee to Protect Journalists called on Philippine President Benigno Aquino III on tuesday, sept. 1, to work toward eliminating attacks against press in the country. radio broadcaster Cosme maestrado, 46, the most recent victim, was shot to death by four unidentified gunman, according to The Guardian. on Aug. 19, teodoro escanilla, a radio anchor for dzms, was shot in front

of his house; on Aug. 18, newspaper columnist and publisher Gregorio Ybanez was shot dead in front of his home, the Associated Press reported.

“We call on President Benigno Aquino to give top priority to swiftly resolving these egregious cases,” said shawn Crispin, the senior southeast Asia representative of the Committee to Protect Journalists, according to the Associated Press. “Until Aquino demonstrates his government is serious about ending the onslaught, the killings will inevitably continue.”

maestrado, an anchor at radio station dxoC, escaped a previous attack in November 2011, his colleagues told The Guardian. he was known for his commentary on the abuse of power and local corruption. the publication reported that maestrado was shot 10 times. “he was a good man, kindhearted and helped many people. his cry is for change,” radio station manager remegio Bonustro said, according to the Associated Press. escanilla, according to the news agency, was a spokesman PAGE A2

DOJ to summon INC leaders Filipina receives Magsaysay Award for work

to preserve ethnic dance found in Southern PH

by edu

Punay Philstar.com

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the complaints filed by Isaias Samson Jr. and his family and by Lito Fruto “will go through the regular process.”

mANILA—the Department of Justice (DoJ) will summon leaders of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) for a preliminary investigation into criminal charges—including serious illegal detention—filed against them by expelled members of the religious sect.

Justice secretary Leila de Lima vowed fairness in the conduct of the preliminary investigation, wherein the eight respondents are expected to file counter-affidavits “as part of the process.”

Aside from serious illegal detention—a non-bailable ofPAGE A3

by agnes

COnstante AJPress

A fILIPINA choreographer and dance historian was honored monday, Aug. 31, for “her singleminded crusade in preserving the endangered artistic heritage of the southern Philippines.”

Ligaya fernando-Amilbangsa, 71, was among five recipients of the ramon magsaysay Award, Asia’s version of the Nobel Prize, for document-

ROLE MODELS. President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the 2015 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees (L-R) Kommaly Chanthavong from Laos, Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa from the Philippines, Anshu Gupta and Sanjiv Charturved from India, and Kyaw Thu from Myanmar for a group photo during the presentation ceremonies at the Main Theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines in Pasay City on Monday, Aug. 31. Established in 1957, the Ramon Magsaysay Awards is Asia’s highest honor and is widely regarded as the PAGE A5 region’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize.

Malacañang photo by Benhur Arcayan

A september 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

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

From the Front Page

Lina: PH gov’t losing up...

PAGE A1 and even up to P180,000 this October.

“This will be passed on to senders of these boxes. If this second round of increases will materialize, the additional charge per box will be P150,” Recto said.

In short, the two increases will

force overseas Filipinos to pay an additional P250 per box.

Senate ways and means committee chairman Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara said he hopes to clarify the tax exemptions and additional charges as the Senate continues to work on improving the proposed Customs Modernization Tariff Act (CMTA).

Figures obtained by The STAR showed 38 confiscations of balikbayan boxes by the BOC in the Ports of Cebu and Manila, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and the Manila International Container Port (MICP), the country’s largest.

From 2009 to 2012, 20 seizures of shipments costing P12.3 million have been recorded. Most of the shipments were declared to contain “personal effects” or items not for sale, only to be found otherwise.

The rest of the shipments were recorded from January to June this year, although no amount has been specified for them.

Most of the items were shipped

from the US, Canada, China, Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong.

During the Senate hearing, Customs Deputy Commissioner Jessie Dellosa was asked by Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. if the BOC has an estimate of the number of cases of contraband sent through balikbayan boxes.

Dellosa said “there was none,” but Lina later clarified there were indeed such cases.

Sen. Cynthia Villar noted that Filipinos abroad send into the country about $47 million a year, taking into account that half of the amount comes from informal remittances.

‘I am so sorry’ Customs recently drew the ire of more than 10 million overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) when it said it will begin conducting physical examination and opening of balikbayan boxes, some

Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina listens during the Senate inquiry on the planned inspection of balikbayan boxes on Thursday, Sept. 3.

Philstar.com photo by Kriz John Rosales

of which are believed to be packed with smuggled goods and drugs.

The policy has since been shelved upon orders of President Aquino, prompting Customs to issue a revised memorandum placing all balikbayan boxes under X-ray examination.

Only when an “alert order” has been issued will there be a physical check of the boxes in the presence of a representative from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

During the Senate hearing, Lina was forced to apologize for PAGE A4

Marcos: BOC should... NY-based press group calls...

PAGE A1

them to enjoy such privileges. Otherwise, it is no longer a privilege but a burden,” Marcos pointed out.

The senator issued the statement in wake of reports that the BOC imposed a tax of almost P6,000 on the championship belt of mixed martial arts winner Jujeath Nagaowa despite the law exempting medals, awards and similar recognition from import duties.

The BOC was also flayed for its plan to manually scrutinize Balikbayan boxes as part of its antismuggling campaign.

President Benigno Aquino III had to step in and stopped the implementation of the plan.

“The government should learn from the experience in the balikbayan box brouhaha. It must show its sincerity in its appreciation of the invaluable contributions of our Filipino compatriots who are

either working abroad or competing for the glory of our country,” Marcos said.

Senator Cynthia Villar said the BOC should change its priorities and focus on bigger issues, particularly the rampant smuggling of agricultural products into the country.

Villar, chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, slammed Customs chief Alberto Lina for his “misplaced” priorities. She said Lina should go after big smuggling syndicates, not OFWs. “They claimed that the government is losing P50 million a year from balikbayan boxes, which is small compared to the P200 billion a year lost from smuggling of agricultural products,” Villar noted.

She said failure of the Department of Justice to file charges against suspected smugglers is one of the reasons why smuggling continues to thrive.

City Council approves LA’s bid...

PAGE A1 ing data shows that over 80 percent of LA’s residents are in support of hosting the Olympics.

An initial proposal for 2024 — released by Garcetti and sports executive Casey Wasserman — has a $4.1 billion budget, in addition to $150 million in insurance premiums and $400 million for cost overruns, the Los Angeles Times reported.

“In Los Angeles, the spotlight is always on. We have the resources, experience and secure environment to share the biggest events with the world,” the proposal states.

The proposal further outlines renovation projects for existing venues, including the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum (which estimates $800 million for seating upgrades and premium amenities)

PAGE A1

of human rights group Karapatan in the province of Sorsogon and was critical of alleged military abuses.

The Associated Press further reported that Ybanez was a board member of an electric cooperative in Davao, and police are delving into whether a disagreement among board members of the cooperative could have been a reason behind the killing.

In 2015 alone, six journalists have been killed in the Philippines, and 32 since Aquino assumed the presidency in 2010, according to a Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism report.

If the three most recent incidents are determined to have been work-related murders, the number of journalists killed in the Philippines since 1986 will be at 150, according to Philippine media watchdog Center

for Media Freedom and Responsibility.

“The murder of three journalists in two weeks shows how the lack of progress in ending impunity has emboldened those bent on silencing the press in the Philippines,” Crispin said, according to The Guardian.

Presidential spokesman Herminio Coloma has criticized the attacks and told reporters that police have been instructed to search for the killers.

The Philippine National Police Director General Ricardo Marquez, according to the Associated Press, said police have created separate special investigation groups to look into each of the attacks.

The Philippines is ranked the third most deadly country for journalists around the world by the Committee to Protect Journalists, following Iraq and Syria. n

and a $500 million investment from the University of Southern California, according to the Associated Press.

Various events would be held throughout the city: gymnastics and basketball at the Staples Center, volleyball on Santa Monica Beach, road cyclists and marathon runners on Hollywood Boulevard and mountain bike racing in Griffith Park.

An Olympic Village “centrally located along the revitalized LA River to reduce travel times and

provide a place to rest and prepare” for athletes is also included in the plan.

City Administrative Officer Miguel Santana and Chief Legislative Analyst Sharon Tso cautioned that acquiring and developing the site may “significantly exceed” the $1 billion budget.

The costs incurred by a host city and whether it benefits have been subjects of debate. Sochi, Russia, which hosted the Winter Olympics in 2014, cost $51 bilPAGE A4

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Dateline USa

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

A

Incoming UsaId mission director reaffirms strong partnership with PH

Leandro Otero, director of external affairs & partnerships for Teach for America - LA (TFA- LA); Stephanie Goodman; Lida R. Jennings, executive director of TFA-LA; Jaime Ballesteros; Joe Bernardo, policy analyst for the LA Mayor’s office of immigrant affairs; and Luis Figueroa at LA City Hall on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

AJPress photo by Ding Carreon

WASHINGTON, DC—In a meeting at the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. on 01 September, Dr. Susan K. Brems—the incoming Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for the Philippines, Pacific Islands and Mongolia—reaffirmed the strong development partnership between the Philippine Government and USAID. Dr. Brems is a career member of the Senior US Foreign Service with the rank of Minister-Counselor, who brings to Manila twenty-three (23) years of experience as a development diplomat for USAID. She previously served as Mission Director in Zambia (2011-2015), Deputy Assistant Administrator in the Bureau for Global Health (20092011), and Mission Director for Angola (2007-2009).

PAGE A1

Nine educators who received DACA, including Jaime Ballesteros, were honored by the White House as “Champions of Change” in July.

Photo courtesy of Teach for America - Los Angeles.

Filipino teacher honored...

PAGE A1 scholarship.

During his junior year in college, his mom encouraged him to apply for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that President Obama announced in 2012, and he was approved to live and work in the US legally.

Since it was introduced, more than 660,000 people have received DACA, according to the White House.

“Applying to DACA is very personal. A lot of immigrants may be scared of coming out of the shad- ows because of the repercus- sions that may come with it.

But personally, I feel that DACA has changed the way that I engage every day — I can drive, I can work, I can do all these amazing things I wouldn’t have been able to do without a social security number or a driver’s license...it has impacted me on a positive way,” Ballesteros said.

“I definitely recommend that if you are eligible for DACA to pursue it because I don’t think there are negative repercussions from applying and trying.”

Becoming a DACAmented teacher Ballesteros, who graduated from Drew University in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in art history and a minor in chemistry, originally intended to go to medical school. But the reality of his status made him recognize that he wouldn’t be able to live out that plan.

With Ms. Holberg and how she impacted his educational career in the back of his mind, he

decided to delve into teaching. “…I changed my path in my senior year when I thought back to Ms. Holberg and what she did for me. I joined Teach for America soon after graduating from college,” Ballesteros said.

Sharing how he “wanted to be civically engaged but didn’t know how to do that while being undocumented,” Ballesteros came across Teach for America (TFA) again in college when a friend applied, and saw that the program was accepting corp members who are DACA recipients.

TFA first accepted two “DACAmented” teachers into the program in 2013, and 44 teachers were placed in 10 regions across the country the following year. To date, over 90 DACAmented teachers are working in 13 regions, according to the organization’s website. Among the areas where the organization has partnerships with schools to hire these teachers are the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Chicago and New York City.

“TFA-Los Angeles has the largest number of DACAmented corp members in the country across our 52 regions and mainly because when we heard about the opportunity to have DACAmented corp members, we were able to call Los Angeles Unified School District and our big charter partners and say ‘will you hire our teachers? will you support this initiative?’ and all of them across Los Angeles said yes. We have tremendous support from our partners…we’re PAGE A4

During the meeting, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. expressed appreciation for the technical and financial support that the United States, through the USAID, provides to the Philippines. He also briefed Dr. Brems on the recent economic developments, including the good governance efforts under the Aquino administration, particularly with respect to transparency and public accountability.

“It was a great opportunity to discuss with Dr. Brems our government’s commitment to improving the lives of average Filipinos, as well as the social development objectives under the President’s leadership. We also exchanged views on the conditional cash transfer program of the government,” Ambassador Cuisia said.

Ambassador Cuisia also en-

Dr. Susan K. Brems Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia Jr.

couraged USAID’s continued support in the following areas: judicial reforms, rule of law, innovation and technology, economic development, educational

dOJ to summon Iglesia ni Cristo...

fense—the eight INC ministers are also facing charges of harassment as well as threats and coercion. The eight are members of the 10-man Sanggunian, the INC’s highest administrative council.

Expelled INC members Isaias Samson Jr. and Lito Fruto filed the complaints.

De Lima said investigating prosecutors would issue subpoena requiring the respondents to appear in a hearing.

It was her order to have the complaints investigated that prompted the INC leadership to call for street protests and

demand the resignation of De Lima.

INC officials have accused De Lima of disregarding the principle of the separation of church and state and of giving “extraordinary” attention to the complaints.

Named respondents were Glicero Santos Jr., Radel Cortez, Bienvenido Santiago Sr., Mathusalem Pareja, Rolando Esguerra, Eraño Codera, Rodelio Cabrerra and Maximo Bularan.

“Certainly, they would be accorded their right to answer the charges during the preliminary investigation. That’s part of the process and the requirements of

fair play and due process,” she said in a text message.

In the wake of reports that the Palace had reached an agreement with the INC to end its street protests, De Lima declared she was not quitting and would in fact proceed with the preliminary investigation as part of her department’s “ministerial duty.”

The National Prosecution Service, the prosecutorial arm of the DOJ, is still evaluating the complaints and has yet to form a panel of prosecutors, according to Prosecutor General Claro Arellano.

After the preliminary investi-

cooperation, and public health.

Dr. Brems expressed her commitment to continuing the strong program and cooperation activities of USAID in the Philippines. gation, the prosecutors will determine whether probable cause exists to warrant the filing of cases in court.

In the absence of probable cause, a case is dismissed.

But based on DOJ rules, any resolution issued by the prosecutors is subject to review by the DOJ chief if the aggrieved party files a petition for such.

Samson, former editor-inchief of INC’s official publication Pasugo, alleged that the respondents prevented him and his family from leaving their house in Quezon City last July after he was accused of being blogger “Antonio Ebanghelista,” who attacked the INC on his blog site.

Fruto, on the other hand, filed PAGE A4

Dateline USa

A september 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

Advisory committee: Airlines should decide on allowing in-flight calls

by Agnes

ConstAnte

AJPress

A COmmiTTee under the Transportation Department on Tuesday, Sept. 1, approved a recommendation stating that airlines should possess discretion in whether to allow passengers to make phone calls during flights.

“We recommend that if safe and secure, that the Department of Transportation allow airlines to decide whether to permit passengers to use mobile devices for voice calls,” said Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane, who is chairman of the advisory panel, USA Today reported.

The panel, composed of four airline and consumer representatives, met in Washington, according to Bloomberg. it also assesses the Transportation Department’s consumer protection programs.

The advisory committee’s recommendation comes more than one year after federal agencies gathered thousands of complaints against the possibility that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) would lift the ban. in December 2013, the FCC agreed to consider removing the ban on in-flight calls, which went into effect in 1991.

The proposal, however, drew much opposition: the FCC collected 1,400 comments, virtually all of which were against it. members of Congress said they would present legislation to ban calls if the FCC decides to allow

in-flight calls; travelers, among others, are not pleased with the idea of seat mates chatting while onboard packed flights. Flight attendants have also raised the possibility of terrorists using cellphones to communicate attacks.

“We’ll keep the wishes of our customers in mind if the rules governing cell phone use shift from the government to individual airlines,” matt miller, a spokesman for American Airlines Group inc., told Bloomberg.

Should the FCC decide to permit mobile phones and devices, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety regulations would still remain in place, the Department of Transportation said in a notice last year, according to Bloomberg. Before the ban is lifted, aircraft operators would need to confirm that equipment would not affect aircraft systems, the publication reported.

USA Today reported that many foreign airlines already provide cellular service, including calls, demonstrating the safety, supporters say.

FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler told Congress that the reasoning behind the ban is no longer applicable as aircrafts today have their own cell towers, the publication reported.

The advisory committee’s recommendation is non-binding, and the FCC and Transportation Department have yet to set a date on when to decide on the issue, according to USA Today.

Lina: PH gov’t losing up...

PAGE A2 the change of policy, which he ordered implemented during his term. “it bleeds me hearing this. They are not the target of this... i bleed for them. i am so sorry about that,” lina told the senators.

He said the BOC is not particularly running after the OFWs, but pointed out that under the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP), anything worth more than P10,000 that enters the country is taxable.

Customs Deputy Commissioner Agaton Uvero said the law has not been revised since the 1930s and that P10,000 is “already too small,” adding the BOC usually exercises “discretion” in screening the items for

valuation.

Uvero said Congress can increase the amount of exempted goods to P150,000.

“We need to balance the concern of our OFWs with revenue generation for the government,” Angara said.

Uvero also explained that the BOC would be putting in place measures to reassure the public that packages sent from abroad would be treated with care.

Angara welcomed lina’s move, but called on the BOC to be more sensitive to the plight of OFWs. “They will be more happy if the BOC will make good its promise on a complaints desk, green box and clearer policy on the inspection of balikbayan boxes,” Angara added.

Bills revising the TCCP are

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

Clarkson OK’d to play for PH in FIBA, father says he won’t play

by Agnes

ConstAnte AJPress

Fil-Am los Angeles lakers guard Jordan Clarkson has been cleared to play for the Philippines in the upcoming FiBA Asia Championship, but his father says he won’t be participating.

“As you know in professional sports, timing is of the essence especially when managing a player’s career,” his father, mike Clarkson, said in an email to US-based Philstar contributor Homer Sayson.

“Unfortunately, the timing couldn’t be worse as he [Jordan] prepares for rigors of the upcoming 2015-2016 NBA season and heightened performance expectations.”

The FiBA championship is scheduled to take place from Sept. 23 through Oct. 3 in China, but the lakers training camp – which is mandatory for all the team’s players – begins Sept. 28.

Given the overlapping schedules, manila Bulletin reported that Clarkson would be able to play in three games for Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) – against Palestine on Sept. 23, Hong Kong on Sept. 24 and Kuwait on Sept. 25.

Should the Philippines advance, the team would play the first game of the second phase on Sept. 27, though Clarkson’s participation in the next round would be unlikely due to his commitment to the lakers. in an email to manila Bulletin, John Black, vice-president for public relations of the lakers, said the 23-year-old Fil-Am is free to pending before Congress and are among the priority legislation of the Aquino administration. in the first semester, the BOC, which accounts for a fifth of state revenues, collected a total of P178.357 billion, up five percent from last year but 11.8 percent off its P202.185-billion target for the period.

The bureau is tasked to collect P436.59 billion this year. lina expressed hope that the cooperation between forwarders and the BOC regarding the processing of documents, such as the bill of lading, will help the agency in deterring smuggling. lina said he is supportive of proposals to increase the exemption value of goods to P150,000 from the current P10,000.

The BOC also recognized the need to amend the Customs laws, which were created in the late 1950s.

Jordan Clarkson will fly with Gilas Pilipinas to Taiwan for the Jones Cup.

play for Gilas in China.

“Per the collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and the Player’s Association, as long as national team play does not interfere with team requirements and there are no injury issues, it is up to the players whether or not to play. Our players must be in los Angeles on September 28, so as long as he would be back by then, we would have no objection to Jordan playing in the event up until that date,” Black wrote.

Clarkson, who has expressed interest in representing the Philippines, was recently confirmed as eligible to play for the country’s national team. Rappler reported that because the lakers guard obtained a Philippine passport before he turned 16, he satisfies a

requirement needed to suit up for Gilas Pilipinas. “it definitely would mean a lot,” Clarkson said, according to a lakers Nation report published in march. “it’s just one of those things you want to do, like how i want to make my city proud and make that country proud as well.”

Although the Fil-Am basketball player will not be participating in the upcoming international championship, he is looking forward to a long-term commitment with Gilas. inquirer reported that Clarkson wants to play for Gilas for three Olympic Games – 2016, 2020 and 2024 – starting next year in Rio de Janeiro. “i’m all in,” he said.

Philstar further reported that SBP officials are seeking to meet

City Council approves LA’s bid...

PAGE A2 lion and is considered the most expensive games to date. “it is vital to properly and sufficiently safeguard Angelenos and our city government from possible losses — and to avoid placing our city in a position wherein we might have to indemnify the US Olympic Committee or any other entity from losses they might incur,” lA City Controller Ron Galperin wrote in a letter to the council last week.

Councilmember mike Bonin

PAGE A3

noted that the city was not financially responsible during the 1984 Summer Games.

“The City did not assume that responsibility in 1984. Why would it assume that responsibility now?

Since lA is the only US city currently willing to bid on the 2024 games, have we used this strong negotiating position to ask the USOC to cover any costs or provide any financial guarantees?,” Bonin wrote in a letter to Council President Herb Wesson on Friday, Aug. 28, according to the lA

Inquirer.net photo by Tristan Tamayo

with Clarkson’s father and lakers management to alleviate concerns they may have.

“Our talk with the father is to reassure him that, from the time that he [Jordan] has not signed the contract [with the lakers] to the time that he does, and if he gets injured while with Gilas, we will assure them during that period he will be properly taken care of,” SBP Vice Chairman Ricky Vargas told Philstar. “We will be taking a risk anyway, whether he has a contract or not.”

Philstar also wrote that Clarkson is working on a contract-extension deal with the lakers after an impressive rookie year in the NBA. NBA preseason begins for the lakers on Oct. 4 when they face the Utah Jazz in Hawaii. The official season begins Oct. 28.

Times.

A $161-million surplus is expected, according to Garcetti, who cited revenues from broadcast, sponsorship and ticket sales.

The Olympics were previously held in los Angeles in 1932 and 1984. The US hasn’t hosted the Summer Games since 1996 in Atlanta.

Contenders have until Sept.

15 to bring their bid to the iOC. Among other international contenders are Paris, Rome, Hamburg and Budapest. The iOC will announce the 2024 host city in 2017. (Christina M. Oriel/AJPress)

DOJ to summon Iglesia ni Cristo...

harassment charges against the members of the iNC Sanggunian for supposedly concocting rape charges that led to the issuance of an arrest warrant and hold departure order against him. He said the harassment came after he sided with Angel and lottie manalo, siblings of executive minister eduardo manalo, in questioning the church’s leadership. meanwhile, a group of Filipino journalists asked the iNC to apologize in public for its followers’ manhandling an ABS-CBN News cameraman during their protest activities last week near the eDSA Shrine. melchor Pinlac said he was grabbed by the neck, punched in the jaw, body and back of the neck by unidentified men – believed to be iNC members – as

the crowd around him shouted “biased, biased.”

Rupert mangilit, secretary general of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), said the attack was deplorable.

A reporter of dzBB, Olan Bola, was also pushed around as he tried to stop the attack on Pinlac, the NUJP reported. mangilit explained it’s natural for some quarters to feel – rightly or wrongly – that a media outfit or practitioner may be showing partiality toward an issue. “However, not this or any perceived slight, for that matter, can ever justify a physical assault against media practitioners.”

“For this, the leadership of the iNC is primarily to blame,” he said.

“Whatever feelings the iNC or its members may have towards

Filipino teacher honored...

PAGE A3 able to bring in all kinds of folks, like Jaime, as possible because we believe so deeply in his story, in him and the children who have the same experience,” said TFA-lA executive Director lida Jennings.

For DACA recipients to be considered for TFA, they must have at least a 2.50 undergraduate GPA, a bachelor’s degree, a social security number and an employment Authorization Document to meet the hiring requirements of partner schools. TFA also helps corp members with legal assistance if needed.

Ballesteros is now entering his second year as a high school chemistry teacher for Animo College Preparatory Academy, a public charter school in the Watts neighborhood of los Angeles.

Since it’s an inner-city school, Ballesteros said he tries to be positive and engaging in the classroom, noting that some of students may not come from “healthy backgrounds.”

“Throughout my first year, i found out that the key to me being able to make a great impact in the classroom is making strong individual relationships with my students…i pride myself in knowing the strengths of my students and what they need to improve on—that really guides me when i’m planning my lessons and teaching in class,” Ballesteros said.

Similar to how ms. Holberg took an interest in him despite his immigration status, the 23year-old teacher intends to do the same with his students. “in sharing my story with some of my students, they’ve also told me that they themselves are undocumented,” he

said. “i’ve been working with them to look for different colleges and scholarships they can apply to so that’s definitely been a powerful experience to do what my teacher did for me back in high school.”

At Animo, about 80 percent of the students are latino, and many of his students are undocumented or have family members who are.

“Jaime represents a commitment that we as an organization have made to bring teachers to match the backgrounds of our students. This is a more personal story behind that, but we are bringing in a more diverse corp and we’re proud to say that our students are being taught by people that look like them and come from the same background. it’s a commitment we’re going to continue see through,” leandro Otero, director of external affairs and partnerships for TFA-lA said.

Though he is in a unique position to connect with his students on a more personal level, Ballesteros shared that other teachers may not be aware of how to handle undocumented students. “[Teachers] should inform themselves of the struggles that undocumented students face and the solutions that are available for these students. it’s not enough to tell the students that they need to work hard. i think teachers need to provide actionable solutions to students,” he said.

Champion of change in July, nine educators who have received DACA were honored by the White House as “Champions of Change.”

“This event honored nine young leaders in the field of education that are also DACA recipients, who have been strong role

particular media outfits, this does not give them the license to assault journalists who are merely performing their duty to record the unfolding events,” the NUJP official added.

“The iNC leadership, in particular, should know this since, after all, they do operate a media network themselves,” he said.

The NUJP also blamed law enforcement authorities and the government for failing to ensure peace and order. “it is infuriating to witness the orgy of backpatting and self-congratulations by the likes of interior Secretary manuel Roxas ii and police officials, who even thanked the iNC for a ‘peaceful’ protest.”

The NUJP also said it was outrageous for the police to even suggest that they would forward any complaint by Pinlac to the iNC. models for students and families, as well as change agents within their communities,” the White House said in a statement.

Among the nine was Ballesteros, who flew out to DC for an awards ceremony for the leaders and a convening of DACAmented teachers hosted by TFA. The DACA-recipient teachers also spoke on a panel about their experiences and pathways into teaching. “it was definitely a very surreal experience. As someone who is undocumented, i never thought i would have been honored at the White House or even step foot in [there]. After finishing my first year—which as any first-year teacher knows is a great feat—it was almost like a victory lap for me for my efforts to be recognized,” Ballesteros recalled.

Since joining TFA, the recognitions for Ballesteros haven’t stopped there.

On Wednesday, Aug. 26, the City of los Angeles presented a certificate to Ballesteros in an intimate ceremony.

“This is a such a big honor for me, especially just moving to lA and just starting my second year in teaching,” he said. in addition to teaching, Ballesteros is currently pursuing a master’s degree in urban education at loyola marymount University and hopes to shape education policy in the future. “i plan on staying in the classroom as long as i can and making a career out of education. eventually, way into the future, i see myself making an impact on education policy because i feel that as a teacher, i have control on the impact that i could make on the 120 students that go through my classroom each day. As i gain more experience, i want a broader impact on my students,” he said. n

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A

Settlement with Pemberton impossible–Laude family LDP may support Poe’s presidential bid

by AllAn

MAcAtuno Inquirer.net

OLONGAPO CITY—The lawyers for the family of slain transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude said a settlement with the camp of accused US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton was impossible now that both parties had rested their case.

Pemberton is facing a murder charge in Olongapo City Regional Trial Court Branch 74 here for the death of Laude, whose body was found in a motel bathroom on Oct. 11 last year. Witnesses identified Pemberton as the man who was last seen with her as they checked into the motel.

“Any settlement now is impossible, especially since both parties are done presenting their respective evidence,” said Virgie Lacsa Suarez, one of the Laude family’s lawyers, in a text message to the Inquirer on Monday, Aug. 31.

Suarez said that since the start of the prosecution’s presentation of evidence on March 23, there had been no talk of a settlement.

“There was only a discussion on a plea bargain as part of the pretrial early in February,” Suarez said.

She denied reports the family had demanded P38 million and six US visas to drop the case.

“There is simply no truth to that… maybe that’s what they (defense lawyers) want to offer [the family],” Suarez said.

She said she suspected Pemberton’s lawyers were “testing the waters” when they revealed the alleged offer.

“There is no truth to reports we will drop the case at anytime,” Suarez said.

City Chief Prosecutor Emilie Fe de los Santos said Judge Roline Ginez-Jabalde scheduled the summation and submission of memorandums on Sept. 14.

De los Santos said a verdict is expected by Dec. 14, which is within the prescribed one-year period to finish court proceedings under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

Lawyer Harry Roque Jr., the

Laude family’s lead counsel, dubbed reports the family was open to a settlement a “PR ploy”

by Pemberton’s camp.

He warned Pemberton’s lawyers not to approach the Laude family without the consent of their counsel.

“They should not even come close to my client, otherwise I will enforce the ethical prohibition of a trial and I will move for their disbarment for ethical breaches,” Roque told the Inquirer by phone on Monday.

Laude’s mother, Julita, has been adamant her family would not accept a settlement.

“It’s not money that could compensate for a life that was lost. No amount of money can replace the life of my child. Not even Pemberton’s life can replace Jennifer’s,” she had said during the trial.

In April, Laude’s relatives sought at least P200 million in moral and exemplary damages as the civil aspect of the case was tackled in Pemberton’s trial.

by christinA

Mendez

Philstar.com

MANILA—The Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP) is keen on looking at the possibility of supporting the presidential bid of Sen. Grace Poe once she decides to join the race next year, Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara said.

Angara said members of the LDP founded by his father, former Senate president Edgardo Angara, will likely be meeting soon to determine who they will support in the coming polls.

While he admitted that the LDP is not one of the bigger parties,

he did not discount the possibility that it will be coalescing with other parties next year.

“We’ve seen a lot of good that happened to the country in the last few years. Perhaps the question is, ‘Who is in the best position to have that good continued and possibly improve what President Aquino has done’,” he said.

The LDP was part of the administration coalition during the 2010 and 2013 elections.

Angara hinted about the LDP’s plans after he greeted Poe, who celebrated her 47th birthday on Thursday, Sept. 3.

“I wish her the best. I know that she will be embarking on a different journey in the next few days. I wish her good luck and fortitude to withstand the challenges ahead,” Angara said.

Angara noted that Poe has the characteristics of a good leader.

Poe remained coy on her plans to run for higher office next year.

Asked about her birthday wish, Poe sought for wisdom to determine what is best for the country.

“That I will have the courage and wisdom to do what is best for the country,” she said in a text message.

Filipina receives Magsaysay Award...

PAGE A5 ing and teaching a pre-Islamic dance tradition called pangalay.

Amilbangsa told the Associated Press she hopes the ethnic dance will continue to live on

and help heal divisions in the poor in the Philippines, rather than become a decorative museum piece.

“We have to think of a national symbol that can unite all of us,” she said in a recent interview.

Amilbangsa developed a fascination for pangalay when she first saw the dance at a 1969 wedding in Sulu province, where she relocated after marrying a Muslim schoolmate who belonged to a prominent clan, PAGE A7

A september 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

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OpiniOn

Features

Heroic

“EVERY Filipino can be a hero if we will continue to fight our desired destination,” Pres. Benigno Aquino III said as he paid tribute to the Philippine national heroes at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday, Aug. 31. This year’s theme is “Bayaning Pilipino Noon at Ngayon: Ang Simula at Tagapagpatuloy ng Malawakang Pagbabago (The Filipino Hero Then and Now: Where Transformation Begins and Continues).”

As Aquino led the wreath-laying ceremony for the fallen Filipinos and Filipinas, he remembered their sacrifices and challenged today’s generation, to turn themselves from meek individuals into successful men and women that may collectively hone a better and brighter future for the country.

“We pay tribute to the sacrifices offered by Philippine heroes. As we honor them, so too are we called to do our part and to continue the battle they began—whether in a small, or a big way—for the betterment of our nation,” Aquino said.

On the same day, Aquino also led the conferment of awards to the five recipients of the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Awards this year. Also dubbed as the Nobel Peace Prize of Asia, the Ramon Magsaysay Awards, now on its 58th year, honors individuals or organizations who “address issues of human development in Asia with courage and creativity.”

In his speech, Aquino congratulated Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa (Philippines), Kommaly Chan-

thavong (Laos), Anshu Gupta (India), Kyaw Thu (Myanmar), and Sanjiv Chaturvedi (India) for transcending the “individual perspective.” He described them as individuals who have “chosen to leave their comfort zones, and answer the call to serve more and more people, whether their immediate community, or all of society.”

The President also likened the awardees to the country’s national heroes for their perseverance despite facing formidable opponents, “from corrupt employees and officials in government, to the phenomenon of widespread poverty and inequality, and even to the way that time erodes our most valuable traditions. But you were not daunted” in order to protect and promote justice, basic human rights, and cultural heritage.

“Real transformation requires real, backbreaking effort—and this is what you gave, willingly.

In many ways, you are like the heroes that many of my countrymen remember on this day: those who struggled and endured hardship for a greater cause. It is only right that we are paying tribute to

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

all of you on this occasion. You are the modernday heroes that not only Filipinos, but all men and women all over the world need,” Aquino added.

Not all heroes should die on the battlefield, some heroes may just be ordinary men and women who inhabit extraordinary lives that make a change and inspire other people. Filipinos should hold on to what their forefathers have achieved yesterday and to move forward with it to initiate progress tomorrow.

Their enduring journey left us with a great example to live by. We are all called to live like heroes, not to make a mark in the world through suffering or death—but to appeal similar lives, for our kababayans and our country.

Being young or being away is not an excuse for indifference. It is every Filipino’s responsibility to honor the value of nationalism, to revere the essence of freedom and to observe the ethos displayed by the Philippines’ gallant heroes. (AJPress)

The rise of anti-establishment candidates: Move over Clinton, Bush and even Trump?

THOUGH a candidate most Democrats outside of the state The Fil-Am of Vermont have never heard of, Senator Bernie Sanders has Perspective proven a sustained upward climb in the polls, possibly threatening the frontrunner status of former First Lady and Secretary of Gel SantoS-ReloS State Hillary Clinton. A new poll among Iowa caucus goers, the first to hold the primary in the 2016 US Presidential Elections, proves just that.

A survey released last Saturday, Aug. 29 by the Des Moines Register and Bloomberg Politics revealed that Clinton has lost 1/3rd of her supporters since May, and that Bernie Sanders continues to cut into Hillary Clinton’s once-commanding lead among Iowa Democrats, closing to just 7 points of Clinton in Iowa. Sanders now trails Clinton 37 percent to 30 percent. CNN reports that just last January, half of likely Democratic caucus goers were unfamiliar with Sanders, and he was pulling in just 5 percent of support.

According to CNN, the poll finds that Sanders’ support is more due to voters’ enthusiasm for his candidacy and his message, rather than opposition to Clinton. An overwhelming 96 percent of those who support Sanders say they support him and his ideas. Only 2 percent say their vote is moti-

vated by a desire to stop a Clinton candidacy.

The report further says that as for the controversy surrounding Clinton’s use of email while leading the State Department, 61 percent of likely Democratic caucus goers say the issue is not important to them.

The poll further reveals that Sanders “has a deeper reservoir of support”, with 39 percent of likely caucus goers say their feelings about Sanders are very favorable and just 8 percent having a negative view of him. In contrast to Clinton: 27 percent view her very favorably, but 19 percent view her negatively.

Sanders has been running a campaign that has put forth a platform of how the government should help ordinary Americans, providing them with basic services like health care, education, higher wages, stronger protection of consumer rights, instead of the government being run and manipulated by powerful oligarchs, benefitting the richest of the rich in society, at the expense of the middle class.

Sanders’ appeal has been further strengthened by the consistency of and commitment to his message since the 1980s, a stark contrast to his political opponents.

“What this new poll shows is that the more Iowans get to know Bernie, the better they like him and what he stands for. We’ve seen the same thing in New Hampshire and across the country,” CNN quoted Sanders’ campaign spokesman Michael Briggs.

Meanwhile, the same poll further says that Vice President Joe Biden, [he has not declared his candidacy for president], captured 14 percent of the vote, Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (3 percent), former Virginia Sen. Jim Webb (2 percent) and former Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee (1 percent).

Carson ties with Trump For the first time in more than a month, real estate mogul and reality show star Donald Trump’s frontrunner status is now being threatened by a newbie in politics and another anti-establishment candidate, Ben Carson, a neurosurgeon.

Carson has surged up in the pack to tie Trump in Iowa, according to the results of the poll released

by Monmouth University on Monday, Aug. 31.

According to the survey, Trump and Carson are now tied at 23 percent. CNN reported that this is the first time since July 26 that a poll in the first four states to select a Republican nominee did not find Trump substantially ahead of all other candidates.

CNN further reported that according to the Monmouth poll, farther behind Trump and Carson

were former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina at 10 percent; Texas Sen. Ted Cruz at 9 percent; Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker at 7 percent; former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush at 5 percent; Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, each at 4 percent; Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul at 3 percent; and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum at 2 percent. CNN added that no other candidates topped 1 percent.

This is a big change from the Iowa poll conducted by Monmouth University, taken before the first Republican debate. In late July, Walker led with 22 percent, Trump had 13 percent, Carson had 8 percent and Fiorina was at 3 percent.

A CNN/ORC poll taken in early August revealed that Trump’s lead had diminished, compared to the results of the latest Monmouth survey in Iowa.

Trump was then at 22 percent, Carson was at 14 percent, Walker was at 9 percent, Cruz was at 8 percent and Fiorina was at 7 percent.

Could Bernie Sanders and Ben Carson really have the chance to be President after all? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos

The curse of incompetence and insensitivity

THERE’S this joke about a little boy anx- Street ious to see his expectant mother give birth. Talk She explains that it will take several months for the baby to come out.

The boy then recalls GreG B. MacaBenta how his engineer father had told his workers on a rush project to “put more men on the job,” to hasten its completion.

“Mom,” says the boy. “Why don’t you put more men on the job?”

If you think that’s funny, guess what the administration of Benigno S. Aquino III has been doing the past five-going-on-six years. The classic example is the Department of Agriculture, notorious for incompetence and accused of corruption. Instead of replacing the Secretary of Agriculture, Proceso Alcala, Aquino appointed former Senator Kiko Pangilinan as “Agricultural Czar” or some title to that effect. Aquino put more men on the job.

Now comes this congressman from Quezon City, Winston Castillo (eager to have his 15 seconds of fame), suggesting that the solution to Metro Manila’s traffic woes would be for Malacañang to appoint a “traffic czar.”

That’s a traffic czar placed on top of a traffic czar (the MMDA chairman) on top of several traffic czars (the Metro Manila mayors). And THAT is supposed to solve the infernal traffic problem?

Good grief!

The management geniuses who populate the Makati Business Club and who recently rated the various government offices, ostensibly based on perceived efficiency, should tell the idiots running the government that overlayering is a

formula for confusion and hand-washing.

In other words, the more cooks working on the broth, the more difficult it is to pinpoint who spoiled it.

This reminds me of the tragedy-ontop-of-a-tragedy that destroyed my hometown of Tacloban.

The original tragedy was super typhoon Yolanda. The tragedy on top of it was the presence of three Keystone Kops, Mar Roxas of DILG, Dinky Soliman of Social Welfare and Voltaire Gazmin of Defense.

In a press conference with Roxas presiding (which I wrote about in this column), the following dialogue was recorded by Rappler: “RAPPLER: Sino po ba ang ground commander natin sa relief operations na ito? (Who is the ground commander in this relief operation?)

“ROXAS: There is no such title dahil ayon sa NDRRMC, it’s Sec Voltz Gazmin ang aming chairman, at ina-assignassign niya kami sa kung ano ang aming dapat gawin. (There is no such title because according to the NDRRMC, it’s Sec Voltz Gazmin who is our chairman, and he assigns us to do whatever we have to do. ) “RAPPLER: Pero sir, who is calling the shots here in this center? (But sir, who is calling the shots here in this center?)

“ROXAS: Wala. You can see the process that is being undertaken, and it is a consultative process. (No one. You can see the process that is being undertaken, and it is a consultative process.)

“SOLIMAN: Lahat kami, buong pama-

halaan, pambansa at lokal, kumikilos as one. But more than that, ‘yun ang gusto kong ipaalam sa lahat – it’s also whole of society. Lahat ng private sector, lahat ng volunteers, lahat ng volunteers dito sa Tacloban, nagre-repack sila. This is whole of society, responding to a crisis. Nagkaisa ang bansa; ‘yun ang ating mensahe. (Everyone of us, the whole of government, national and local, move as one. But more than this, what I want everyone to know – it’s also whole of society. The entire private sector, all volunteers, all volunteers here in Tacloban are repacking. This is whole of society, responding to a crisis. The nation is working as one; that’s our message.)’

But Roxas, Soliman and Gazmin were not done yet. Soliman then explained an “operations management concept” which she called, “the Convergent Approach.”

Here’s what I wrote in reaction to that: “I did a double-take and struggled to find an analogy for ‘Convergent Approach.’ In football, that means operating without a quarterback. In a symphony orchestra, without a conductor.

In the corporate environment, without a CEO. In the military, without a commanding officer.

“Apparently, in the Roxas-Soliman Institute of Advanced Operations Management, as applied to the Yolanda crisis, the Convergent Approach is one where every player is left to his or her own best intentions, based on respective levels of competence or incompetence.”

In an earlier meeting between Roxas and Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez, Roxas had required the latter to submit a formal request for disaster assistance from the national government, other-

wise, “Bahala kayo sa buhay niyo.”

Roxas, who is supposed to have studied management in an elite university in America, has since become famous for classic responses to the problems of the country. The latest is his rationale for the infernal traffic problems: It’s supposed to be a result of the “booming” economy. No solution. Just a rationalization. He might as well have said, “Bahala kayo sa buhay niyo.”

Come to think of it, that is what the occupant in Malacañang practically told the suffering folks of Metro Manila, if we are to assume that the palace spokespersons are articulating the thoughts of the president of the country.

According to one Manila daily, Deputy spokesperson Abigail Valte has asked the public “to be patient” in the face of the metropolis’ “traffic woes.”

The news report was about how “vehicles clogged and barely crawled along Andrews Avenue, Airport Road and Sucat Road – vital arteries leading to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s terminals 1,2,3 and 4.”

The news item further stated: “Valte said they received a report that a big number of people failed to make it to their flights because of the ongoing construction works in the Villamor Air Base area. She said airport authorities had been advising the public to consider the heavy traffic because of construction projects when planning their trips.”

Well, what choice do the poor motorists, air travelers and commuters have except to “plan their trips”? The reason, of course, is because the idiots behind the massive construction projects did not do their mandatory part of the planning.

Let me cite two examples of competent planning and concern for the convenience of the commuting public (as opposed to the palpak and manhid approach of this administration): the massive expansion of the San Francisco International Airport and the replacement of the eastern span of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

To ensure that commuters and air travelers would not be inconvenienced, the plans and budgets for both projects included alternative routes that commuters could take, while the main thoroughfares were under construction.

This meant a temporary bridge from Treasure Island to the Oakland side while the original bridge (part of which had collapsed during the 1988 Loma Prieta earthquake) was being demolished and a new span was being built.

In the case of the expansion of the San Francisco International Airport, air travelers hardly felt any inconvenience because of the alternative arteries prepared prior to the main construction activity.

Compare that with what’s happening in Metro Manila, something that I am painfully aware of because I live just off Sucat in Parañaque. I will give my comments in Tagalog so that our non-Filipino readers will not understand me: “Pinagsabay-sabay ang tinamaan ng lintik na construction at bahala na tayong mga taong bayan sa buhay natin.

Diyos ko. Bakit ba tayo pinarurusahan ng mga bobo?”

And now, back to English: Dear management geniuses of the Makati Business Club. Is this the kind of governance you want to sustain for another six years? (gregmacabenta@hotmail. com)

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A

Enrile, Revilla, Angara face new ‘pork’ raps

by Michael

Punongbayan Philstar.com

MANILA—Levito Baligod, former counsel of pork barrel scam whistle-blower Benhur Luy, filed charges of malversation of public funds against 20 incumbent and former lawmakers before the Office of the Ombudsman.

Among those charged for the alleged misuse of their pork barrel or Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) from 2007 to 2009 were Sens. Juan Ponce Enrile, Ramon Revilla Jr. and former senator Edgardo Angara.

The PDAF funds were allegedly released to non-government organizations (NGOs) not linked to accused pork barrel fund scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles, who is now detained and facing plunder charges with several lawmakers as her co-accused for misuse of government funds.

Napoles was also convicted and sentenced for the serious illegal detention of Luy. Also named respondents were former party-list lawmaker Joel Villanueva of CIBAC who now heads the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Prospero Nograles (Davao), Joseph Santiago (Catanduanes), Roberto Cajes (Bohol), Alan Miraflores (Aklan), Neil Tupas (Iloilo) and Carol Lopez (You Against Corruption and Poverty or YACAP party-list).

Likewise included were Alfonso Umali (Oriental Mindoro), Edgar San Luis (Laguna), Arturo Robes (San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan), Rodolfo Antonino (Nueva Ecija), Reno Lim (Albay), Evita Arago (Laguna), Rachel Arenas (Pangasinan), Marina Clarete (Misamis Occidental), Al Francis Bichara (Albay) and Julio Ledesma IV (Negros Occidental).

Baligod’s complaint was based on the affidavits of four persons, including former National Agribusiness Corp. (Nabcor) employees Victor Roman Cacal and Rhodora Mendoza, who were among those charged in pork barrel scam cases filed by the Office of the Ombudsman before the Sandiganbayan against Enrile, Revilla and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada.

The affidavits of Bernadette Ricalde and Katherine Namoro, former employees of a lawmak-

Lawyer Levito Baligod shows a copy of the graft complaint that he filed against Senators Juan Ponce Enrile and Ramon Revilla Jr. and former senator Edgardo Angara with the Office of the Ombudsman Wednesday, Sept. 2.

Philstar.com photo by Ernie Peñaredondo

er, also formed part of the documents submitted to Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales.

Baligod said the lawmakers channeled over P490.685 million in PDAF to some 17 NGOs that allegedly “squandered” the money.

Enrile and Angara allegedly gave P15 million and P20 million respectively to Kagandahan ng Kapaligiran Foundation Inc., while Revilla gave P10 million to St. James the Apostle Multi-Purpose Cooperative Inc. The lawyer said the witnesses are willing and ready to prove their allegations and reveal what they know, together with other potential witnesses.

“Thus, you will note that their affidavits are not exhaustive, as we only want to establish a reasonable basis for your good office to look into the allegations and to validate the same and those that they could hereafter reveal should your Office enjoin them to do so,” Baligod said.

Enrile said that he couldn’t care less about the plan of the ombudsman to file a motion for reconsideration on the decision of the Supreme Court to grant him bail.

Speaking with reporters at the Senate, Enrile said that it was the right of the ombudsman to file that motion for reconsideration.

Enrile, charged with plunder in relation to the pork barrel scam, was granted bail by the Supreme Court on humanitarian grounds.

Since his release from hospital detention, Enrile has attended the plenary sessions of the Senate daily.

Asked about the new case being prepared against him, Enrile had nothing much to say.

“One more time? What is the difference? That would already be multiple plunder and that’s too much. Anyway, we’ll see,” Enrile said.

YACAP Rep. Lopez said she has taken steps to clear her name with the Commission on Audit (COA).

Tupas said he was the one who informed the COA back in 2010 when he found out that his signature was being forged to facilitate release of funds from PDAF. He said he also asked concerned agencies to withhold implementation and releases of any fund under his PDAF account that resulted in the monies withheld and returned to the national treasury.

TESDA chief Villanueva refuted the allegations against him.

Malacañang is keeping its hands off the charges of malversation through falsification of public documents filed at the ombudsman against 20 former and incumbent and lawmakers, including allies of the administration.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said it would be “imprudent” of them to comment on any actions being taken by the ombudsman “in any phase of any investigation.”

Roxas evades questions on problems in typhoon Yolanda aid distribution by nestor

P. burgos Inquirer.net

Jr.

ILOILO CITY—Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II refused answering questions on problems in the distribution of government assistance to survivors of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” even as he wooed the support of municipal mayors in the Visayas for his presidential bid.

Sought for his opinion on problems with the Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA), Roxas replied to a reporter of television network ABS-CBN: “Well, whose agency is suppose to…”

When the reporter replied that it was under the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Roxas then raised his hands palms up and said: “What is my agency?”

He then thanked about seven reporters in the ambush interview before leaving the room.

Roxas was smiling but refused to entertain further questions. His allies later said he was in a hurry to proceed to Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.

Reporters, who were expecting to ask more questions from Roxas, were surprised by the sudden end

of the interview which ended in 17 seconds.

Just minutes earlier, Roxas spent time pressing flesh and having his picture taken with about 250 mayors from the Visayas who attended the Visayas cluster conference of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) at the Kalantiao Hall of Sarabia Manor Hotel.

In his speech during his keynote speech, Roxas said President Benigno Aquino III will be accepting his resignation from the cabinet “in the next few weeks.”

The President earlier rejected his resignation citing unfinished programs in his department.

Roxas also stressed the importance of local government units as he also sought their support for his presidential bid in next year’s elections.

He individually mentioned officers of the LMP and his allies.

A native of Capiz province, Roxas spoke alternately in English, Filipino and Hiligaynon and repeatedly welcomed delegates to Iloilo.

Near the end of his speech, Roxas directly asked the mayors to support his presidential bid.

“Samahan niyo ako at ibibigay

ko sa inyo…isang pangulo na taga Visayas (Join me and I will give you a president from the Visayas,” Roxas said.

He stressed the importance of local government units in the implementation of national programs and policies.

The national government will not be successful if “local government units are not successful,” he said.

Liberal Party leaders were also president including Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor, Iloilo Rep. Jerry Treñas and Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog.

The conference also became a venue for more exposure for politicians expected to run in in next year’s elections.

Among the speakers were Senators Francis “Chiz” Escudero and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., former Energy secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla and Metro Manila Development Authority chair Francis Tolentino.

Mark Lapid, chief operating officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and former Pangasinan representative Rachel Arenas also spoke before the conference.

Filipina receives Magsaysay Award...

PAGE A5 the Associated Press reported.

“I thought that this was so beautiful, it’s so different,” she told the news agency.

In the ethnic dance, arms are swayed gently and the hands and fingers move in a way that simulates the motions of animals or waves.

Amilbangsa was interested in how pangalay is believed to have come to the southern Philippines from India prior to the arrival of Christianity and Islam, according to the Associated Press. The news agency added that the Filipina awardee said classic dance forms resembling pangalay can be found in Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand, among other places in Southeast Asia.

In the same year that Amilbangsa became interested in pangalay, she began conducting research on the dance and interviewed elder villagers to record the gestures, Pangalay dancer and researcher Nanette Matilac told the Associated Press.

In 1983, Amilbangsa published a book with the first written pangalay dance instruc-

tions, the news agency reported.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, whose late mother (former Philippine President Corazon Aquino) previously received the honor, gave out the awards on National Heroes Day and offered positive words for Amilbangsa.

“Our country holds the belief that if you forget your roots, you are bound not to reach your destination. Our own kababayan, Ligaya Fernando-Amilbangsa, has lived by this code. She turned her appreciation of the arts into an advocacy, with the most important one being the study, practice, and teaching of the dance style, pangalay, from the southernmost part of the country,” Aquino said during a speech on National Heroes’ Day, according to CNN. The four others who also received the award are: Kommaly Chanthavong of Laos for reviving and developing ancient Laotian silk weaving as a means of creating a source of livelihood for poor villagers; Anshu Gupta of India for founding a volunteer group that recycles a variety of

items, providing jobs and more affordable basic items for those in need; Sanjiv Chaturvedi of India for investigating and exposing government corruption; and Kyaw Thu of Myanmar for providing free funeral services for the poor through a group he created called Free Funeral Services Society.

Aquino said the each recipient “has transcended the ‘individual perspective.’”

“Each of them has chosen to leave their comfort zones, and answer the call to serve more and more people, whether the immediate community, or all of society,” he said, according to CNN. The Ramon Magsaysay Award, created in 1957 and named after the third president of the Philippines, is bestowed on individuals and organizations each year. Since it was established, more than 300 men, women and organizations have been recognized for their selfless service for their societies, Asia and the world, according to the award foundation’s website.

Each awardee received $30,000 and a gold medallion. n

GOOD HARVEST. Farmers and their clans in Hungduan, Ifugao province, take part in “baddang” (community sharing) and the staging of “Ponnok,” a thanksgiving ritual for good harvest. The clans share food and advice, compete in games and plan activities to ensure that good harvests continue in the next planting season on Monday, Aug. 31.

Inquirer.net photo by EV Espiritu

Palace reminds Ombudsman: PNoy immune from suit

by Michael

Punongbayan Philstar.com

MANILA—Amid the ongoing probe on the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), Malacañang reminded the Office of the Ombudsman on Tuesday, Sept. 1 that the chief executive enjoys immunity from lawsuit.

“We wish to point out the Constitutional principle that an incumbent President of the Philippines is immune from suit,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a note to media.

According to reports, Ombudsman Conchita CarpioMorales revealed this morning that her office is now investigating Aquino and Budget Secretary Florencio Abad in connection with the implementation of the controversial DAP. Morales made the revelation in reply to a question during a hearing on the proposed budget of her office in the House of Representatives.

Coloma said they respect the authority of the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate the president.

“The Office of the Ombudsman is empowered by law to conduct such investigation,” Coloma said.

Introduced by the adminis-

President Benigno Aquino III administers the oath of office to Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales at Malacañang’s President’s Hall in July 2011.

Malacañang photo

tration in 2011, the DAP realigned government savings from slow-moving projects to other programs to supposedly fast-track public spending and stimulate the economy.

In 2014, the Supreme Court (SC) unanimously declared certain acts under the DAP as unconstitutional for violating the doctrine of separation of powers and the constitutional provision prohibiting the inter-branch transfer of budget allocations.

The high court ruled that “authors, proponents and im-

plementors” of the DAP such as Aquino and Abad can have criminal, civil, administrative and other liabilities “unless there are concrete findings of good faith in their favor by the proper tribunals.”

The SC ruling against the DAP sparked calls for the resignation of Aquino and Abad and an impeachment attempt on the president.

Aquino and Abad had consistently defended the DAP, saying the program was done in good faith and benefited the nation.

A september 4-10, 2015 • NeW YOrK AND NeW JerseY AsIAN JOUrNAL

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

september 4-10, 2015

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NY exhibit to showcase works of 14 top Filipino designers

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

Waistband from Surigao

Ring with kirtimukha (face of glory) from Eastern Visayas

Cord weights from Butuan

Dagger hand from Northeastern Mindanao

Eight-petaled ornament from Liloan, Leyte

Pre-colonial PH gold goes on display at Asia Society

by MoMar

The long wait is over.

For four months starting next week, pre-colonial Philippine gold and artifacts will be on display at the Asia Society in New York City as a part of Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms exhibit. More than a hundred gold pieces from the Ayala Museum in Manila and a host of private collectors will be showcased in said exhibit.

“Let’s call on all our friends and relatives so they can come to New York and see this once in a lifetime exhibit,” exclaimed Loida Loida Nicolas Lewis, co-chair of the Philippine Gold Benefit Committee with Doris Magsaysay ho. “Let us all be proud to see that even prior to the Spaniards colonizing the Philippines, we already had such sophisticated and exquisite gold artifacts. This is our King Tut!” Benefits, dinners, receptions and various community events have been lined up for the Filipino American community to participate in and enjoy.

Curated by Florina (Nina) h.

Capistrano-Baker of the Ayala Museum and Adriana Poser of Asia Society, the Philippine Gold exhibition will run at the Asia Society from Sept. 11, 2015 through January 3, 2016.

At the Ayala Museum in Manila, there are more than a thousand artifacts as a part of this permanent exhibition. For this specific exhibit in New York, the curators decided to focus on Butuan.

“We couldn’t bring everything because of security reasons but we tried to bring the most spectacular and visually stunning ones,” Capistrano-Baker told the Asian Journal.

One of the most notable pieces in the collection is the ten pound Kinari Vessel from Surigao. The artifact is in the form of a half woman and half avian being, and it reflects the Indian mythical kinari – a celestial female with wings and legs of a bird personifying beauty, grace and accomplishment.

Another magnificent piece is a gold caste evidencing a prosperous elite class with strong influences to hindu culture.

Other memorable items include lotus ear ornaments from Butuan to belt buckles from Northeastern Mindanao to burial ensemble from Daet, Camarines Norte.

Capistrano-Baker cites that this extraordinary collection would not exist without the passion and dedication of

Mark from Butuan

Nina Capistrano-Baker explains how the curators chose which artifacts to bring to New York.

G. Visaya/AJPress Leandro and Cecilia Locsin, whose vision of preserving for future generations these marvelous objects provides valuable glimpses into the Philippine precolonial past. The Locsins were responsible in securing the bulk the collection.

Asia Society President and CeO Josette Sheeran expressed her excitement that the Asia Society is doing this big project about the Philippines.

“What an exciting moment for us at the Asia Society leading up to our 60th anniversary,” Sheeran remarked. “We couldn’t be more honored than to work with Loida, Doris and the benefit committee and the consulate to really bring the Philippines front and center for the New York community.”

“We’re so proud to bring these precolonial gold that really tells the story of the Philippines that the world doesn’t know,” Sheeran added.

“It’s a groundbreaking show.

I hope it really opens eyes here in the United States. This is an important part of history that has never been widely seen before. I saw the collections at the Ayala Museum and it was mindblowing,” said Adriana Proser, John h. Foster Senior Curator for Traditional Asian Art, Asia Society.

“We welcome the entire Filipino community to visit us here during the exhibition and see all these installations we’ve been working so hard on.”

Gold and the Philippines The Philippines has the second largest gold deposit in the world.

The works on display—from tiny gold tweezers to fabulous pieces of jewelry—reveal that these natural resources were readily exploited by the local people during that time.

The regalia, jewelry, ceremonial weapons, and ritualistic and funerary objects show of a prosperity and achievement of Philippine communities that flourished between the tenth and thirteenth centuries, long before the Spanish discovered and colonized the region. Some of the pieces will show indigenous forms and connections to local traditions such burial practices and social groupings.

There are adornments of elite individuals and the deities they adored including a spectacular array of golden sashes, necklaces, pectorals, diadems, earrings, finger rings, and arm and leg ornaments.

Nina Baker, co-curator of PH gold exhibit

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

Josette Sheeran, Asia Society president and CEO

Although the forms and styles of the majority of these works developed locally, some indicate that Philippine craftsmen had been exposed to objects from beyond their borders through the robust cultural connections and maritime trade in Southeast Asia during what was an early Asian economic boom. Scholars have also pointed out there are similar styles between the Philippine objects and those from such cultures of Java, Champa, and Borneo.

In the book about the collection at the Ayala Museum, Philippine Ancestral Gold, editor and author Capistrano- Baker stated that the deeper value of these gold objects “can be assayed only in consideration of its historical and academic significance and the selfknowledge and pride it gives to Filipinos.”

Co-author John Miksic, Associate Professor of South and Southeast Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore, pointed out in the publication that the pre-colonial gold of the Philippines is “perhaps the country’s greatest tangible cultural asset and can stand

comparison with any other assemblage of gold artifacts in the world.”

Consul General Mario L. de Leon, Jr., during the launch of the project at the Philippine Consulate a few months ago, called on the community leaders to encourage everyone in the community to see the exhibit.

“It’s not just a partnership of Asia Society and Ayala Museum and the private collectors and the benefit committee, it involves our community as well. We are all partners in this endeavor,” he said.

Regular museum ticket price is $12 but for groups of 20 or more, Asia Society officials said they will reduce the price to just $7 per person.

“You will be amazed to find out that our history didn’t start with the coming of Magellan. It started way, way back. All of us can hold our heads high and say that ‘Yes, we are proud we are Filipinos!’,” Lewis added.

Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms is organized

by Asia Society, New York, and Ayala Museum, Philippines. The exhibit will run will run at the Asia Society from Sept. 11, 2015 through January 3, 2016.

Ear ornaments from a burial Garuda ornaments from Pectoral ornament from Belt clip depicting Fragment of waistband from ensemble from Nabua, Camarines Eastern Visayas Butuan squids and jellyfish Surigao Sur from Surigao

NeW YORK CITY — A special display of the works of top Filipino designers will be shown by Asia Society along with Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms, an exhibition of over 100 spectacular works of gold from the 10th to 13th century, highlighting the creativity, prosperity and cultural connections of the precolonial period.

“Filipino Design Now,” which highlights Filipino design, material and craftsmanship, celebrates the artistic visions of top Filipino designers in this exclusive showcase conceived by Filipino jewelry designer Federico De Vera, a gallery owner of antique objects, curios and jewelry and, more recently, the author of De Vera Objects and De Vera Jewelry.

Presented in Asia Society’s lobby, the showcase features exclusive collections by 14 renowned Filipino designers who have been invited to create products inspired by their interpretation of Philippine culture.

Signature pieces from these designer’s collections have been selected for inclusion in the display, with the balance of the collections featured for sale at AsiaStore and online at AsiaStore.org. “Filipino Design Now” is supported by Fedex express.

Featured designers include: • Maricris Brias, home textiles. Brias and her local artisans are committed to reviving the native artistry of Mindanao’s ethnic tribes, manufacturing textiles and home accents created from local abaca and banana fiber, handwoven exclusively by T’boli and Mandaya natives.

• Lenora Cabili, fashion. Cabili’s designs are inspired by tradition, mixing the past with present, creating unique garments that incorporate ancient techniques of weaving, embroidery and bead work from indigenous Filipino groups.

• Federico de Vera, jewelry. De Vera strives to find new lives for old things that have been discarded, and reinterprets them from a different point of view. Today his pieces are comprised of antique elements, often simultaneously organic and baroque, each unique and one of a kind.

• Ian Giron, home accents. Giron creates home accents using coconut shell as his base and combining traditional methods of sanding and bleaching before applying gold leaf to achieve color and patina, a process that has been widely used in Asia for thousands of years.

• Jewelmer, jewelry. Golden South Sea pearls are the centerpieces of the brand. Through a highly selective process, these elusive gems inspire artisans to create finely crafted jewelry to fulfill Jewelmer’s celebration of beauty in harmonious symmetry with nature.

• Josie Natori, jewelry. Natori’s iconic, global brand, the house of Natori celebrates Asian aesthetics with the spirit of Natori’s adopted home in America, effortlessly melding the visual best of both the east and the West.

• Tina Ocampo, evening bags. Ocampo’s luxury brand Celestina,is comprised of a collection of evening bags, handcrafted by Filipino artisans, practicing age-old techniques and using exotic materials that can only be found in the Philippines.

• Ditta Sandico, fashion. Sandico transforms indigenous fibers, such as banana, pineapple and abacca into a fashion art form, designing wraps that follow the movements of the body.

• Wynn Wynn Ong, jewelry. Favoring stones in their organic, untouched states and incorporating materials not often associated with jewelry, Ong combines unexpected elements into her meticulously hand crafted jewelry designs.

• Anne Saguil, fashion. Saguil combines her passion for craftsmanship and fashion, designing clothes, handbags and accessories using hand embroidered techniques and indigenous handwoven materials.

• Rafe Totengco, minaudières. Totengco’s signature minaudière evening bags, featuring indigenous Filipino materials, blend uptown sophistication with a downtown edge.

• Bea Valdes, jewelry & accessories. Valdes takes inspiration from various cultures, sourcing materials, patterns and ideas from around the world for her high-end accessories while continuing to shine a light on the Philippines as a design hub as she supports local artisans and their craftsmanship.

• Natalya Lagdameo, novelty textiles. Drawing on work as an interior designer and inspired by heirlooms and artifacts from around the archipelago, Lagdameo creates textile designs utilizing local Filipino materials.

Ear ornaments with twelve floriated spangles from Bohol

Six-petaled ornament from Eastern Visayas Photos courtesy of Asiasociety.org, Ayala Museum

Related Programs and Events of the Philippine Gold exhibit at Asia Society BENEFIT EVENT Philippine Gold Opening Gala Thursday, September 10 • 6:00 pm This Gala Benefit Dinner will celebrate the exhibition opening of Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms and the launch of a season of programming that highlights the richness and diversity of Philippine culture and current affairs, and explores its cuisine, performing arts, film, design, literature, and more.

BENEFIT EVENT Philippine Gold Premiere Night Gala Friday, September 11 • 6:00 pm The Premiere Night Gala Dinner will mark the opening of Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms and help launch a season of programming that highlights the richness and diversity of Philippine culture and current affairs, and explores its cuisine, performing arts, film, design, literature, and more.

BENEFIT EVENT Filipino American Community Celebration Saturday, September 12 • 6:00 pm A celebratory evening with live music, pica

pica (hor d’oeuvres) reception and tours of Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms. The centerpiece of the evening will be a special performance of Langhapin, Lasapin, Namnamin … Pag-Ibig (Breathe, Taste, Savor … Love) at 7:00 pm. This special presentation explores love in its many aspects through Philippine songs of various genres performed by outstanding Filipino and American classical singers and musicians, offering a glimpse of Philippines musical identity and heritage.

PERFORMANCE Tunog ng Ulap Rondalla Sunday, September 13 • 2:00 pm Revel in the stirring music and dances of Tunog ng Ulap Rondalla. 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.

MEMBERS-ONLY LECTURE Re-Collecting a Forgotten Past: Traces of Hindu-Buddhist Art in the Precolonial

Philippines Tuesday, September 15• 6:30 pm Join co-curator of Philippine Gold: Treasures of 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.

SYMPOSIUM Encounters with Early Asian Gold Saturday, October 3 • 11:00 am held in conjunction with the exhibition, Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms, this symposium features new scholarship that reassesses our understanding of Asian peoples in the context of gold trade and movement.

PERFORMANCE Alamat: Stories of Philippine Gold Monday, October 26 • 8:00 pm Using movement, songs, and a highly visual style, Ma-Yi Theater Company has created a compelling evening of theater that retraces the evolution of Philippine Gold as uniquely

Filipino. Weaving together various indigenous myths about creation, nature, and tribal histories,Alamat: Stories of Philippine Gold tells the story of gold before colonization by the West.

PERFORMANCE Voicing the Ancestral Sacred: Grace Nono and Ensemble Saturday, October 30• 8:00 pm Grace Nono is one of the most renowned female vocalists in the Philippines. She hails from the area in the Southern Philippines where the Butuan kingdom was located. Nono is a champion of traditional Filipino music while at the same time finding ways to make it contemporary for a new generation.

FILM SERIES New Philippine Cinema November 2015 Asia Society plans to celebrate new Philippine cinema with seminal works made since 2000. While Philippine films are recognized around the world in major film festivals, American audiences have yet to catch up with the tide.

Immigration Corner

No fraud waiver required if you were a victim of fraud

repeatedly assured the alien that this whole process was legal and the alien could trust the consultant, There have been many who would take care of everything. tragic situations where people The alien paid the consultant, were duped into applying for who even had the person go to immigration benefits to which they USCIS’s offices to have his picture were not entitled. Unscrupulous and fingerprints taken. he later immigration consultants promise received a work permit, providing work permits, green cards, and further assurance the whole other immigration benefits to process was legitimate. people who are eager to work in the A few months later, he received U.S. and send money back home. a denial notice in the mail for Only later do they find out they permanent residence. he was were tricked and cheated out of shocked at receiving the denial, their hard-earned money. To make and tried calling the consultant. matters worse, they are charged however, the consultant would with fraud by the USCIS and denied not return any phone calls, and legitimate immigration benefits. later refused to send him copies of In an unpublished decision any paperwork on what was filed. from the Administrative Appeals The consultant claimed he had an Office (AAO), an alien was argument with the high-ranking charged with fraud. he filed his official, but would provide no fraud waiver which was denied information about that official, such because he did not properly as his name or contact number. demonstrate his qualifying relative When the alien was finally (his spouse) would suffer extreme applying for legitimate immigration hardship. however, on appeal, benefits, he obtained a copy of his the AAO concluded he did not previous filing, and was horrified to intend to defraud and/or willfully find there were forms containing misrepresent a material fact to his forged signature, along with a the US government. Therefore, no picture of a woman he had never fraud waiver was required, and his met. Apparently, the consultant adjustment of status application filed paperwork making it appear should be approved. that the alien had married, and was In that particular case, a being petitioned by a US citizen. consultant told an out of status The alien had been duped and alien that the consultant’s neighbor tricked. was a high-ranking official at the The AAO concluded the alien USCIS’s District Office. That official did not make a willful or fraudulent supposedly had several green misrepresentation, but instead was cards he could give out at his tricked and fooled by a consultant. discretion each year. The consultant Therefore, he was not guilty of

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA (Conclusion of 2 parts) IT is sad that a legislative effort to defund the group of taxpayer money has failed just recently due in part to the lack of leadership and true grit among many members of our feckless, inept Congress and Senate who lack the moral and intestinal

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fraud, and no fraud waiver was required.

If you were previously duped or tricked into applying for immigration benefits to which you were not entitled, you should seek the advice of an attorney who can gather and analyze your files, and evaluate whether you were also a victim of fraud. however, if a person knowingly and intentionally applied for immigration benefits to which they were not entitled, attended interviews and repeated the lies in the forms they submitted to the USCIS, then this case may not apply to you. however, if you were duped and tricked, and did not know what was being filed on your behalf, and were truly an innocent victim, there may be hope. *** 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 re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter.

No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

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

The murder of babies and the killing of a lion “Evil is sly and coats itself in the dishonest lingo of political correctness.” fortitude to win victories when they have the capacity to do so.

There is simply no excuse. The matter will be up for revote and I sense a change in the direction of the wind.

An Asian Journal

The sad part about all these is that an overwhelming number of babies murdered are from the African American community and other minorities.

Margaret Sanger, the pioneer

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 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 your question

on or before Friday, September 11. you will be notified if your question gets picked. And get the chance to meet Atty.

Gurfinkel one-on-one 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.

for abortion many decades ago, actually started the practice of eugenics for the purpose of eliminating certain members of the community she deemed undesirable. pp is led by its outspoken, high profile, well connected, no apologies CeO, Cecille richards, daughter of the late Texas Governor Ann richards, who along with others have made it part of their life’s work to promote abortion under the dubious guise and disingenuous pretext of freedom of choice for women while ostensibly promoting women’s health as a

cover.

Anyone with 2 neurons firing in the brain know this is just a part of a general bogus narrative of the so called liberal lie of the“war on women.” There is a reason for the pandering. polls indicate that women supporting abortion are a significant voting bloc that can pull the lever in national and local elections. The reading of pollsters is skewed and is patently deceitful. Women of substance who stand for life are in overwhelming numbers compared to those who stand for the culture of death. planned parenthood’s

services to women such as mammograms, scans and such other benign procedures appear to be just a smokescreen for 90% of what they really do: abortions and the harvest of baby body parts for profit with yet another smokescreen of advancing medical research. you may sugarcoat it and disguise it all you want, the end will never justify the means.

Multiple videos have been released by the group and can still be viewed on youtube barring injunctions from a Northern California judge who Continued on Page 6

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New York welcomes Dingdong Dantes, Ai-Ai delas Alas and other Kapuso stars

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How 2015 APEC creates the ‘wow factor’

by Thelma

SioSon San Inquirer.net

GMA Pinoy TV continues 10th anniversary celebration dubbed #Sampuso with Kapusong Pinoy New York

Juan

Without so much fanfare, the Philippines this year has been hosting thousands of delegates to the series of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings held in various parts of the country, from Boracay, iloilo, Cebu, to tagaytay and Makati. And we have been doing it with aplomb, creativity and taste—not a show-off of opulence. the meetings will culminate in November when the heads of state of member nations fly to Manila for the 2015 APEC Leaders’ Summit. the last time the country hosted the Apec heads of state was in 1996.

Beginning Sept. 4, Cebu rolls out the hospitality carpet for the APEC delegates. What Cebu has in store should be something to look forward to.

What we have seen so far has been very impressive. it’s been a commendable effort that does the country proud and leaves us—a regular eyewitness to the activities and the setting—impressed with how the organizers have been marshaling Filipino resources and materials ingeniously, tastefully—and always, with a twist or surprising innovation that projects what is uniquely Filipino. they prove that we can project ourselves on the global stage without resorting to extravagance.

Nothing over the top. indeed, all this has been in keeping with the style of this current administration—not

Dingdong Dantes

Boracay sand sculpture pays tribute to APEC.

Even meeting room carries the sand-and-beach theme, right in the center.

“Paraw” sailing in the dark night is a stark contrast against the luminous stage designed by Leeroy New.

opulent, but a tasteful, dignified projection to the world. the APEC creative team led by former Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) president Nes Jardin has been working under the office of the President, the Departments of Foreign Affairs, trade and industry, tourism and Finance, transportation and Communications, Energy, Agriculture, and Neda, ChED—indeed almost all the departments, the local governments and the APEC Business Council representing the private sector. it’s a dynamic collaboration of government and private entities, and the creative team has been tapping the country’s leading artists, directors, performers—the creative industry led by the CCP under artistic director Chris Millado. that the APEC exercise hasn’t In APEC Boracay, the rich Philippine marine life (think jellyfish) inspires both Leeroy New’s been monopolized by a single stage and the table centerpiece. culture faction, unlike in the past, Inquirer.net photos by Thelma San Juan is an encouraging sign of how this

administration has been trying to level the playing field, not only in business and industry, but also in other sectors.

As these photos show, the APEC event held in Boracay last May was nothing short of spectacular. Like the other APEC shows held in the country, it had the “wow factor.” the APEC culminating show was held on the stage designed by sculptor Leeroy New—a tantalizing art installation evoking the giant shapes of corals and sea creatures. it rose on the beachfront of Shangri-La Boracay, set against the setting sun and the “paraw” sailing behind. in the remaining light, it cut a stark silhouette against the puffy clouds. At nightfall, it became a kaleidoscope of light on which top entertainers like Bituin Escalante performed.

APEC in Boracay also showcased the sculptures of young artist ol-

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Ai-Ai delas Alas

FoLLoWiNg a series of jampacked Kapusong Pinoy events across different continents, gMA Pinoy tV in association with Starmedia Entertainment, stages another Kapusong Pinoy concert to be held at the prestigious town hall in Midtown Manhattan, New York on September 5, with Kapuso stars all geared up to bring the fun and entertainment to all loyal gMA fans.

As gMA Pinoy tV celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, it remains committed to bringing quality news and entertainment to Kapuso fans abroad, making them feel closer to home. “the past ten years have been a very fruitful and heart-warming journey for gMA international and we dedicate this year’s Kapusong Pinoy concert series to all those who have been with us along the way,” says gMA First Vice President and head of international operations Joseph t. Francia. “through a night of music, fun and laughter with their favourite Kapuso artists, we hope to bring a slice of home to our kababayans abroad,” he adds.

Some of the Network’s biggest and brightest stars headline the third of this year’s series of anniversary concerts with Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes and Philippine Comedy Queen Ai-Ai delas Alas leading the all-star cast. “i’ve always loved New York,” admits Dingdong. “our kababayans there have such a strong Filipino spirit and i’m really excited to come back and perform for them. this concert is also special because we’re celebrating ten years of reaching out to every Filipino across the world and making them feel closer to the Philippines,” he expresses.

Dingdong has recently wrapped

Betong Sumaya

Julie Anne San Jose

up taping for his primetime soap Pari ‘Koy and is all set to return to the hosting scene via the muchawaited comeback of StarStruck.

Ai-Ai is as excited as Dingdong. “Mga Kapuso, bongga talaga ang 10th anniversary ng gMA Pinoy tV at handog nanaman namin ang isang napakasayang show para sa inyo!

New York, handa na ba kayo?

Maki-celebrate na ng ten years with ten times the fun!” says the veteran actress-comedienne, who is one of the main hosts of Sunday PinaSaya.

Alongside Dingdong and Ai-Ai are Asia’s Pop Sweetheart Julie Anne San Jose, actor comedian Betong Sumaya and Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista.

Julie Anne, who recently filmed her newest music videos including “tidal Wave” in Los Angeles and “Not impressed” in New York, shares her excitement and anticipation for the event. “i can’t wait to finally be back in New York and be with all the Filipinos there. it’s always great to be performing in front of such a warm and lively crowd. We hope you enjoy the performances we’ve prepared for you!” says the artist whose fans can also catch her weekly on Sunday PinaSaya.

Meanwhile, Christian, who also headlined Kapusong Pinoy Vancouver and Kapusong Pinoy Anaheim this year, is ready to thrill the crowd with his romantic ballads. “this is a wonderful opportunity to connect with our fellow Filipinos abroad and i’m grateful to be part of a very special celebration. Congratulations to gMA Pinoy tV for 10 successful years!” he says.

Betong will also be bringing his beloved character Antonietta from the Philippines’ longest-

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Christian Bautista

running gag show Bubble gang to fans in New York. “Mga Kapuso, darating na si Antonietta sa New York! Samahan niyo kami sa September 5 at siguradong punung-puno ng tawanan, kantahan at kasiyahan ang inyong gabi! Amazing!” he exclaims with his famous catchphrase.

Kapuso artist Rita Daniela will also join Dingdong, Ai-Ai, Julie Anne, Betong and Christian in Kapusong Pinoy New York. the concert will be held at the town hallv, 123 West 43rd Street, New York NY 10036 on September 5. gates open at 5:00 PM. to purchase tickets, log on to www.ticketmaster.com and www. starmediaentertainment.com.

Kapusong Pinoy New York is sponsored by Landbank, Vonage, Vista Residences, Moneygram, Ritemed, Mapua institute of technology, Cebuana Lhuillier, globe Duo uSA, Everest Aircondition, the generics Pharmacy, ASAP tickets Service, Xoom.com, Shakey’s, Financial Rescue, Cebu Pacific, LBC, DirectV, Debt Aid Consulting, transfast, Air 21, Red Ribbon, Magnolia ice Cream, Chowking, tancinco Law office, Sweet habana, Apex global Cargo, 13 Degrees North and Conzerge hotel Collection – the Blakely New York hotel.

For updates on gMA Network’s artists, programs, international channels and events, visit the website www. gmanetwork.com/international, Facebook pages www.facebook. com/gMAPinoytV, www. facebook.com/gmalifetv, and www.facebook.com/ gmanewsinternational, twitter pages @gmapinoytv, @gma_lifetv, and @gmanewstvintl and instagram account @gmapinoytv.

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The ‘Beautiful Life’ celebration

By Monet

of the Philippines International, Queen of the Philippines World, Queen of the Philippines Asia and Queen of the Philippines Intercontinental.

The “Beautiful Life” Celebration is the youngest of the socio-political organizations that I lead in honor of our Kababayans who have displayed an unparalleled outlook in life.

These are: “Reflections” that’s been around for 20 years and “Uliran Awards”, a Filipinana affair that has been instrumental in inspiring Filipinos to give their best always—it is still going strong for 10 years. And, out of the irresistible demand to celebrate our cultural heritage, I—along with like-minded individuals who felt a strong sense of appreciation, formed the “Beautiful Life.” It is held every other year and holds a soft spot in me. One of the most memorable events I had with this organization was the time we raised $5,000 to donate to the victims of typhoon “Yolanda” in the Philippines. And that, by far, is the best way we’ve celebrated “life” apart from recognizing noble men and women.

So, it is with so much joy and privilege that I invite everyone to gather with us in acknowledging our exceptional Kababayans. The event will be preluded with a press conference on September 16, 2015, 7pm. at the OMnI Hotel California Plaza in Los Angeles.

The actual event is on november 21. Tickets range from $100 to $150 (VIP seating). For more information and other inquiries, you may email me at monetlu@ yahoo.com. Reservations can be made via email or by contacting me thru (213) 216 -4923. ***

Lu

In celebration of Philippine cultural pride and heritage, I am happy to announce the coming of the 4th Beautiful Life Awards on november 21, to be held at the OMnI Hotel.

As some of you may know, this glamorous event is held in honor of the men and women who have remarkably influenced and inspired the Filipino-American Community. It showcases the indigenous work of our kababayans and celebrates the contributions they made in making this world more beautiful.

Hence, the title; “The Beautiful Life Celebration.” I am also proud to share that this would be the celebration’s fourth year.

In line with that, I am thrilled to give you a preview of the event beginning with my chosen theme for this year. I know I may be pre-empting my own event but I just can’t help but share my excitement as the president of this organization. Please allow me to indulge our readers with just a sneak peak. This year is so unique from the previous years’ themes. I recall: The first one was a fashion show held at the CBS Studio while the second was a black-and-pinkthemed awards night, which was also held at the same venue. Both events featured the lovely, Ruffa Gutierrez and other distinguished guests. The third one, which was held at the Metropolitan Banquet, was a classic red-and-black themed event. And now, for this year’s theme, I decided to let the colors come out! It follows the same glamorous ambiance but with more liberty on the color theme. It is a dress-to-impress night with exploding colors, so to speak. I am not one to brag but as most people say, each celebration never fails to outshine the previous ones. In light of that, I definitely guarantee that this will be the best one.

As I mentioned in the beginning, the event recognizes the extraordinary work and life of our fellow Filipinos in their

Awardees of the event

Queen of queens

chosen field of endeavor. It celebrates the choices they made, the lives the lead and the legacy they imparted to the Fil-Am community. Among the awards that will be given are 2015 Distinguished Men and Women of the Year, Special Award of Distinction, and Distinguished

Couple of the Year. And of course, this would not be called “Beautiful Life” if we do not appreciate “Pinay” Beauty; the much awaited Queen of Queens Coronation will also take place on the said event. We will be crowning this year’s Queen of the Philippines Universe, Queen

Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

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St. Joseph Parish to honor San Lorenzo Ruiz with novena masses on Sept. 20 to 28

JERSEY CITY, nJ—To celebrate the annual feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila, the first Filipino Martyr and Saint, the parish community of Saint Joseph will host a series of novena masses from Sept. 20 to 28 at St. Joseph Church located at Pavonia Avenue corner Baldwin Avenue. The event is open to the public.

Various priests led by the Rev. James V. Pagnotta, pastor, will officiate the novena masses honoring San Lorenzo Ruiz and seeking his intervention to pray for various sectors of society including the youth, the elderly, the victims of injustice.

The celebration will begin on Sept. 20 (Sunday at noon) with special prayers for priestly and religious vocations.

The rest of the schedule is as follows:

• Sept. 21 (Monday) at 7:30pm – Special Prayers for Life • Sept. 22 (Tuesday) at 7:30pm – Special Prayers for Victims of Injustice • Sept. 23 (Wednesday) at 7:30pm – Special Blessings for Parents. The Wednesday novena Mass will be preceded by the recitation of the Holy Rosary and novena prayers to the Mother of Perpetual Help at 6:45 p.m.

• Sept. 24 (Thursday) at 7:30pm – Specia l Prayers for Peace • Sept. 25 (Friday) at 7:30pm – Special Prayers for the Youth and Children • Sept. 26 (Saturday) at 9am – Special Prayers for Our Earth • Sept. 27 (Sunday) at noon – Solemn Blessings for the Elderly Continued on Page 6

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PH Embassy looking for Filipino/Fil-Am children to greet Pope Francis in US

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THE Embassy is looking for 13 children to participate in welcoming the Holy Father, His Holiness, Pope Francis, to Washington, DC on the early morning of Thursday, September 24th. Please see attached poster for details.

Please note: • For children to qualify, they must be Filipino or FilipinoAmerican and must be in Grade 3-12, • Children must be at a predetermined pick-up area on the morning of Thursday, September 24th. Estimated meeting time is 6AM,

• Children must attend a briefing if required by the Archdiocese of Washington, • Parents/grandparents may not join their children/grandchildren; children will be accompanied by 2 chaperones to be selected by the Embassy, • Other details (attire, exact venue, etc) to be determined with the Archdiocese of Washington and will be shared once known.

We invite parents to send in the names and details of their children by noon of Thursday, September 17th. The children will be picked by random and will be announced on

Friday, September 18th.

Please email Thryza.Navarrete@ philippinesusa.org with the following details: • Child’s name • Child’s date of birth • Child’s school & grade • Parent’s contact details: Name of both parents and contact number The Embassy thanks the Archdiocese of Washington, under His Eminence, Donald Cardinal Wuerl, for allowing Filipino and Filipino-American children to participate in welcoming the Holy Father to Washington, DC.

Welcome Pope Francis

The Archdiocese of Washington has asked th to participate in welcoming The Holy Father RENE DALANDAN DIRECTS SPOLIARIUM, THE OPERA. Rene Dalandan has enjoyed a multi-faceted career as pianist, singer, conductor, organist, actor, educator, liturgical musician and educator. As a pianist, he has performed in Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in NY, in numerous concerts in Asia, North America, Europe and Asia and done command performances for various heads of state. As liturgical singer, organist and conductor, he has participated in two Papal Masses in New York as well as Cardinal Dolan’s installation at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican. Scheduled to sing with the NY Archdiocesan Choir for Pope Francis’ Papal Mass in September, he holds a Doctor of Music degree in Piano from the Manhattan School of Music and taught as adjunct professor at the Dominican College, Blauvelt, NY. His theater work has included a recent 19-performance run as The Ghost of Christmas Present at the Antrim Players’ production of A Christmas Carol and Associate Music Director for the NY premier of De Leon’s opera Noli Me Tangere. While serving as music director of St. Catharine’s Church in Blauvelt , Rene has also taught schools in Queens, Bronx, and Brooklyn, and now teaches chorus, general music and theater at the Pearl River Middle School, NY.

St. Joseph Parish to honor...

1637. According to accounts, the Japanese promised Lorenzo that they would release him if he denounced Christianity.

Refusing to renounce his faith he told his executioners that he was ready to die for God and give to God many thousands of lives if he had them. He was tortured and hanged upside down submerged in water until he died. His martyrdom and a miracle attributed to his intervention led to his elevation to sainthood. San Lorenzo Ruiz is the patron saint, among others, of the Philippines, as well as of overseas Filipino

workers and immigrants, the Filipino youth and the Chinese Filipinos.

For more information, visit www.stjosephjc.com. If you wish to volunteer and take part in the preparations for the novena and/ or Joint Eucharistic Celebration on Sept. 28, call any of the following: (all 201 area code): Cora dela Cruz 798-8953, Aurea Diansen 653-5598, Lulu Ducusin 714-9506, Gee Fontanilla 6535897, Tess Gumtang 792-5684, Chitra Herath 604-3763, Liza Jablonski 653-2736, Herminio/ Florita Magno 653-7780, Crispina Mirasol 320-0911, Roland/Zeny Padilla 795-4596/779-7935 or Tina Zarejko 216-0140.

vacation setting—in the confines tic cups.

Even the meeting rooms at of the conference room.

While previous and future Shangri-La Boracay carried the sun-

stage—progressive, dynamic, young talent. And that is working on a limited budget.

From Page 5 The festivities will conclude on Sept. 28 (Monday) starting at 7:30pm, with a joint Eucharistic Celebration in honor of San Lorenzo Ruiz and San Pedro Calungsod, the second Filipino Saint. A fellowship in the social hall of the parish will follow immediately after the Eucharistic Celebration.

San Lorenzo Ruiz, a lay witness to the faith from Binondo, Manila, was canonized

by Pope John Paul II in Vatican City on Oct. 18, 1987. He professed his faith by martyrdom in Nagasaki, Japan on Sept. 29,

The murder of babies...

From Page 3

has sided with PP in stopping the pro-life group from releasing the explosive videos.

Political influence is at work in suppressing freedom of speech for the time being.

In the interest of full disclosure, that judge in Northern California, was a campaign bundler raising more than $200,000 for the current administration in its run for the office.

Critics of the videos claim these are heavily edited and a conspiracy to discredit PP. That dubious claim has been debunked as the raw footage of the videos are available online (as of this writing) for anyone to view.

The minions of these marauding murderers of the

most innocent of human beings are well placed and wield the highest political clout, from the highest echelons of office to the lowest handlers. The White House, Hillary Clinton and Elizabeth Warren are staunch defenders of PP. Technicians in lab coats poke teeny tiny baby body parts with tweezers in a dish, figuring out if the minuscule body part is a leg, an arm, a liver, a kidney or an eyeball and pricing dead baby parts retail.

In this coming national election, CHOOSE LIFE. Find out the voting record on this matter of all those running for election and reelection. It is difficult to be a single issue voter since this country has complicated its voting process by mixing up both good and bad so that everything seems murky. Evil is sly and coats itself in the dishonest lingo of

political correctness.

In my view, the one thing that is a clear reflection of the soul of a candidate running for elective office, a telling glimpse of how highly evolved the candidate is as a human being who can mirror the divine and ultimately, the direction and actions a candidate takes to govern his constituency, guide this country and shape the world at large according to its Christian founding principles, is the unflinching and uncompromising stand on the issue of abortion.

Of all the creatures that walk the earth, God didn’t choose lions, or tigers or dinosaurs or any other animal in his own image and likeness. God chose us. ***

You must be: • Filipino or Filipino-American • Must be in Grade 3 -12 How 2015 APEC creates the ‘wow factor’ • Willing to be at a pre-determined area From Page 4 • Must be patient while waiting for Pope country hosts of APEC may have and-sand theme.

The center of the U-shaped the limitless logistics to produce ivia D’Aboville—sea anemone and dandelion sculptures strategically seating was a carpet of sand lit- grandeur, in the case of the Phil• Your parents must be willing to wait for tered with shells, twigs and ar- ippines, it is the Filipino design placed on the garden.

Garden lights on the ground rangements of local orchids. The and creative talent that produces point were fashioned out of reused plas- delegates did serious work in this the wow factor on the global Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Have your mom or dad email Thryza Navarrete a your name, school & grade. We will let you kno group.

Rachelle Ann Go celebrates 29th birthday in the Philippines MANILA—rachelle Ann Go, who is currently based in London, is on vacation in the Philippines since last week.

The singer turned theater actress’ vacation was made extra special as she celebrated her 29th birthday in the country with the people close to her heart.

On Monday, Aug. 31, her family and friends prepared an intimate birthday celebration for rachelle Rachelle Ann Go is in Manila for a short Ann. vacation and to celebrate her 29th birthday The party was attended by some with her family and friends.

Instagram photo by Rachelle Ann Go of her celebrity friends like Christian

Bautista, Sheena Halili and Kyla.

Over the weekend, she had a prebirthday celebration with her family in Boracay, which she said was her way of “capturing memories” before she turns a year older. rachelle has been in London for more than a year now, since being part of the West-End musical “Miss Saigon” as GiGi in 2014.

She’s now part of the musical “Les Miserables,” where she plays the role of Fantine. She’ll be back in London before September 7.

(Philstar.com)

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National Council of Philippine American & Canadian Accountants 2015 Charity Golf Tournament Where: Penderbrook Golf Club, 3700 Golf Trail Lane, Fairfax, VA 22033 When: September 4, 2015; 8am-2pm Please contact: Jaena Hermosilla Valles 718-275-1422; jvalles@vallesvendiola.com or Bobby Tamayo 703-615-9451; rgtamayo@verizon.net Visit www.ncpacafoundation.com for more details.

Saulog Celebration: A Night of Serenade Cebuanos Engaging in Building Unity, Inc. (CEBU INC.) will be hosting a Saulog Celebration: “A Night of Serenade” on Friday, September 4th, at St. Rebastian Roman Catholic Church (5802 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, NY 11377). The show will present the Cebu Clergy Performing Artists, and feature: the 2015 NYC Philippines Independence Day Parade Grand Prize Winner - C.E.B.U. INC. Sinulog Dancers. The show will start at 8:00pm on Friday. Please contact CEBU INC. for more details.

SEPTEMBER 4-6

#AlDub comes at a time when GMA Network is shifting its energies out of the good ‘ol (but costly) TV programming towards a greater dependence on (cheap) Internet and a heavier presence on social media.

#AlDub and the Big, Mean Media Machine

by DLS

PineDa Philstar.com

EvEr since the Internet went live, Tv and print media have been on the defensive. All around the world, print editors and Tv producers alike have come up with one statistic after another to back claims of their paper’s revolutionary roots and outcomes, their magazine’s staying power, or their channel’s (supposed) continuing relevance. Statements, mostly coming from the men and women of print media, range from objective analyses of having a so-called secure and thinking audience, to audacious assertions that print media might just lord over all media in the years to come. Ironically, the latter statement is often reiterated when addressing advertisers who, being used to BS, should be able to smell it a mile away.

Yet these overzealous projections are understandable since professions, vocations, and ways of life hang in the balance when it comes to the survival of print media. But in all honesty, it’s impossible to come up with something these days — anything — without an online component of some sort. Nowadays, the tiniest semblance of an online presence means the world for many who wish to see themselves as healthy and interactive homo sapiens. And now, we are confronted with a mammoth display of online prowess: #AlDub. What it all boils down to is this: #AlDub is nothing new. In fact, it has been the same-old same-old the moment it went on-air. So why the unrivaled fame? #AlDub is the culmination of everything we’ve learned so far from decades’ worth of soap operas, noontime shows, Pinoy rom-coms (the type which have song and dance numbers in zoos, no less), and the newest addition

to the ballgame, social media. The storyline is a comedy of errors. It makes use of a wide arsenal of twists and turns, what with our long heritage of soaps and affinity for the slapstick. And true to Yaya Dub Maine Mendoza’s online origins, the kalyeserye mashes it all together in one, topsy-turvy, 30-minute, makeup-mascara, Eat Bulaga! costume party of good vs. evil, featuring a show-stealing Lola Nidora (her twin), her sidekicks, sideshows, and a love supreme; an All-4-Juan: Juan-4-All segment, centered on the split-screen, starcrossed, amo-et-amore, without voices of their own, à la Ariel, the Little Mermaid, tandem: Alden richards and the zero-to-hero Internet sensation, Yaya Dub. How we all fall for Maine Mendoza’s seemingly overnight stardom, and how we applaud GMA Network for finally finding a place for one of its long-time-budding stars. I’d say that, all in all, it’s a laudable work of genius, but it’s really nothing new. It’s exactly what Austin Kleon preached: it’s stealing like an artist.

An article from The Philippine Collegian entitled “Kalyeserye: AlDub, Kulturang Popular at angNaka-Hashtag na Politika ng Ating Panahon” by Mykel Andrada and JC Sibayan places the media craze in its proper place. By citing Henri Lefebvre’s Critique of Everyday Life, the authors locate #AlDub not only as a Tv production running on its own merits, but a piece which is subject to its audience’s interpellation. In short, #AlDub’s audience actively creates its story and meaning.

No wonder we are bombarded with a thousand and one handles for a story. The satire in the character of Lola Nidora, the unwarranted silences the dubs fill, the quirky improvisations of Jose, Wally and Paolo all find meaning

in our heads even if there is hardly any meaning intended — they’re all bound to work, they’re all bound to be funny some way, somehow. And with the series being aggressively marketed and circulated online, it leaves little wonder as to how “audience participation” works as the series’ lifeblood. #AlDub is postmodern media’s very own Frankenstein.

Eat Bulaga’s Kalyeserye proves all doubters of online media both wrong and right. #AlDub comes at a time when GMA Network is shifting its energies out of the good ‘ol (but costly) Tv programming towards a greater dependence on (cheap) Internet and a heavier presence on social media. (In fact, some segments of the show are shown exclusively online.)

Kalyeserye shows just how much more effective online media is in terms of call-and-response over all other media. But at the same time, #AlDub, intentionally or not, reflects the wantonness — the meaninglessness — of the online universe. While the Internet is democratizing access to information like never before, it is also leaving too much to be desired and too many questions left unanswered. We have to ask ourselves, now more than ever, how else will online media change the landscape and how are we to take it all in?

With all the noise Kalyeserye churns out, love becomes a sorry excuse for its story’s coming together. #AlDub is a mass media tour de force; a message which says that the Internet is a force to be reckoned with; a warning for those who still believe that going online isn’t the way to go. Times are changing. Now, we have a Janus-faced screen in front of us, a panel for each eye, to satisfy our noontime cravings.

American actor in PH for real, reel love

by Louie

GreG rivera Inquirer.net

OFTEN, we hear about onscreen love stories that turn into off-screen relationships. Sometimes, however, “reel” life reflects real romances.

An American actor, Lee O’Brian

Lee O’ Brian with girlfriend Pokwang

appeared in the films “Edsa Woolworth” and “Forgive Me Father.” Starring in a new Tv series alongside Tuesday vargas, O’Brian will portray a befuddled foreigner in a relationship with a Filipino woman.

In “Kano Luvs Pinay,” O’Brian will play the role of Matthew, an American who falls for Cookie, the character played by vargas. His real, offscreen girlfriend is comedienne Marietta Subong, who is more popularly known as Pokwang.

O’Brian and Pokwang played similar roles in the movie “Edsa Woolworth,” which was instrumental in getting them together.

O’Brian said in a recent press conference that he was in the country for a vacation with his girlfriend Pokwang when he was called for a possible Tv project.

“I went in and auditioned,” said O’Brian. He soon got the role, which seems like it was specifically designed for him.

When asked by reporters to describe misconceptions about

Filipino-American relationships, O’Brian gave a rather candid response.

Cross-cultural couples, he said, often face the question: “Is this really love, or is this really for a visa?”

O’Brian added, “One of the things that we [explore in the show] is the concept of the locals’ thinking that a Filipino man or woman is just going for the benefits rather than actual love in cross-cultural relationships.”

On his romance with Pokwang, he declared, “I think, you know, in my situation… I’ve gone for love.” reporters, in unison, responded: “Aww.” When asked about his plans regarding his acting career in the country, O’Brian said, “That is, right now, definitely my goal… my focus is to stay here with my current girlfriend in real life and stay with my on-camera girlfriend, her family, our great director, production team and make a great show and go beyond that… I definitely want that!”

National Council of Philippine American & Canadian Accountants 2015 Convention Where: JW Marriott 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC 20004 When: September 4-6, 2015; from 8am-5pm Please contact: Jaena Hermosilla Valles 718-275-1422; jvalles@vallesvendiola.com or Bobby Tamayo 703-615-9451; rgtamayo@verizon.net Visit www.ncpacafoundation.com for more details.

S E P T E M B E R 4 -7

Ramon Magsaysay/Cubao High School 2015 Reunion in Las Vegas Calling all Cubao High School/Ramon Magsaysay (Cubao) High School graduates and alumni! Come out and join the 2015 Get-Together of our Alma Mater from Friday, September 4 to Monday, September 7 at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas (4000 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103). A special Dinner/Dance is scheduled on Saturday, September 5. To our Alumni now residing in Canada, the US, and other parts of the world, all are invited to share this special weekend event with their fellow graduates and classmates in Las Vegas, NV. For more information, please call Jay Medina at (310) 967-9517 or Boots Doria at (925) 330-8081.

SEPTEMBER 5

Filipino Association of Leisure World Dinner-Dance The Filipino Association of Leisure World will hold their dinner-dance at the Leisure World Hall on Saturday, September 5th. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. For further information, please call Ren Villanueva at (323) 854-6209.

SEPTEMBER 5-6

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) for Accountants at the NCPACA Convention Where: JW Marriott 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC 20004 When: September 5-6, 2015; from 8am-5pm, at the National Council of Philippine American & Canadian Accountants (NCPACA) 2015 Convention Please contact: Jaena Hermosilla Valles 718-275-1422; jvalles@vallesvendiola.com or Bobby Tamayo 703-615-9451; rgtamayo@verizon.net Visit www.ncpacafoundation.com for more details.

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!

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.

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 -26

CELEbRATE LoCAL with San Diego Restaurant Week!

This September, San Diego Restaurant Week, presented by Lexus Dealerships of San Diego, will CELEBRATE LOCAL... keepin’ it fresh - really fresh. San Diego Restaurant week returns September 20th - September 26th for ONE WEEK ONLY to “Celebrate Local” at all 180+ participating restaurants. Choose from a three-course dinner or two-course lunch deal to satisfy your cravings. NEW THIS YEAR, San Diego Restaurant Week will be partnering with Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank to provide backpacks for children in need within the San Diego community during the ALL FOR KIDS campaign. Ditch the dirty dishes and join over 150,000 fellow diners as we celebrate San Diego’s thriving culinary scene and the homegrown, local businesses that provide us with the produce and products we love! Tickets are not necessary for this delectable week of discounted dining, but reservations are recommended! Visit SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com for more information, including a list of participating restaurants, or to make your reservations in advance!

S E P T E M B E R 25 -26

2nd Grand Reunion GoT (RETiRED) from Cerveza San Miguel uS CHAPTER Where: Gold Coast Casino & Hotel (4000 Flamingo Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89103) When: Sept. 25 and 26; Grand Reunion Sept. 26 at 7:00 pm For details and information, please contact Renato Umayam at 323-841-3516, Nida Matias at 818-394-9178, Greg Lacondola at 702-334-8068, or Arnold Navarro at 318-779-6254.

O c TO B E R 1 0

LA builder Lions Club 25th Anniversary The Los Angeles Builder Lions Club will celebrate their 25th Anniversary and Annual Outstanding Parents Night on October 10, 2015 at the Almansor Court banquet hall (700 S Almansor St, Alhambra, CA 91801). Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band.

For further questions, please call Lion Bill Menor (323) 465-0613, Lion Yoli Ramo (213) 3051332, chairpersons or Lion Tita James, co-chair at (818) 203-2325.

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

An Asian Journal

Magazine

8

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