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Volume 24 - No. 16 • 2 Sections - 16 Pages

aPril 28-may 4, 2017 Also published in LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEw YORk/NEw JERSEY

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Duterte: ICC has no jurisdiction over me

by Audrey

MorAllo Philstar.com

Lawyer Jude Sabio, counsel of self-confessed DDS hitman Edgar Matobato, holds up a received copy of his 77-page complaint against President Duterte and 11 other filed at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, alleging that the Philippine leader, et al, have committed crimes against humanity in the government’s war against criminality and illegal drugs.

Inquirer.net contributed photo

USA

DATELINE California judge blocks part of Trump’s sanctuary cities executive order from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

A feDerAL judge in san francisco on tuesday, April 25 blocked a portion of President Donald trump’s executive order that called for denying funds to areas that defy u.s. immigration authorities. u.s. District Judge William orrick ruled that the trump administration could not impose restrictions on the so-called sanctuary jurisdictions that have policies to protect undocumented immigrants, given that the president does not have the authority to dictate new federal spending policies. “federal funding that bears no meaningful relationship to immigration enforcement cannot be threatened merely because a jurisdiction chooses an immigration enforcement strategy of which PAGE A4

FVR says Paynor is best choice for PH envoy to US former Philippine President fidel V. ramos believes that if there is anyone who is fit to become the country’s ambassador to the united states, it would be malacañang’s chief protocol officer marciano Paynor Jr. ramos made the comment in a television interview on Former Pres. Fidel V. Ramos tuesday, April 25 when he was asked to name someone he would recommend for the post.

“I know him, I’ve seen him work. he has been consul general in san francisco. he saved me for six years. Isa pa, military yang si Paynor (Paynor is from military). PmA (Philippine military Academy) graduate Class 71,” ramos told ANC’s headstart.

In August last year, President rodrigo Duterte named Paynor as the Philippines’ new ambasPAGE A3

mANILA — President rodrigo Duterte on thursday, April 27 said that the International Criminal Court does not have jurisdiction on the crimes he was accused of committing, his first reaction to the communication filed by a Philippine lawyer at the hague moving for his investigation and possible prosecution.

In an interview with reporters, Duterte said that one of the fundamental principles of the Philippine criminal code is territoriality. this means that an accused can be prosecuted only in the territory where the alleged crime was committed, In this April 21 photo, President Rodrigo Duterte is assisted by Captain Alexsei Ulyanenko, Commanding Officer of Russian Guided Missile Cruiser “Varyag” as he was given the privilege to use the captain’s deck while being toured on the Russian Warhsip docked at Pier 15 of the Port of according to Duterte.

Malacañang photo by King Rodriguez PAGE A2 Manila Harbor during a four-day goodwill visit to the Philippines.

Senators urge Trump admin to Duterte tells New York Times: continue Filipino World War II ‘Better stop your publishing’ Veterans Parole program by dAnA

sioson AJPress

by ChristinA

PhILIPPINe President rodrigo Duterte hit back at New York Times (NYT) on thursday, April 27, following an editorial condemning the filipino leader over the alleged spate of summary killings in the country.

In its April 25 op-ed, the NYT editorial board described Duterte as “a man who must be stopped.”

But Duterte, in an expletive comment, said that it is the publication that must be stopped.

M. oriel

AJPress

A grouP of Democratic senators is calling for the continuation of a program that allows filipino World War II veterans to be reunited with their families in the united states, amid reports that the trump administration is reviewing immigration parole policies.

In a letter addressed to President Donald trump on Wednesday, April 26, senators Dianne feinstein (DCalif.), mazie K. hirono (D-hawaii), tim Kaine (D-Va.), Catherine Cortez masto (D-Nev.), and Kamala harris (D-Calif.) said that less than 6,000 filipinos World War II veterans — of the 260,000 who fought — are living in the united states today and are increasingly in need of assistance from their relatives. some of the veterans have petitioned family members from the Philippines to join them in the united states; however, wait times can last years, often times exceeding 20 years, due to statutory visa caps. under the administration of former President Barack obama, the filipino World War II Veterans

“New York Times – a**h***, a**h***.

You cannot even criticize your own mistake. Invading a country, making up excuses before the world that is not true, then you have the gall to say stop. You better stop your publishing,” Duterte said.

In its piece, titled “Let the world condemn Duterte,” the NYT editorial board supported the mass murder complaint filed by lawyer Jude sabio, counsel of confessed Davao Death squad (DDs) hitman edgar matobato, before the InternaPAGE A2

February tourist arrivals hit 4-year high Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto AJPress file photo by Robert Macabagdal

Parole (fWVP) program was introduced in July 2015, which states that on a case-by-case basis, certain family members could be eligible to come to the u.s. to provide support and care for aging filipino veterans who are u.s. citizens or lawful permanent residents. once in the country, the beneficiaries could apply for work authorization.

An executive order signed by PAGE A3

mANILA — this year’s strong tourism streak continued through february, breaking the month’s records of visitor arrivals since 2013, according to official figures released by the Department of tourism (Dot).

A total of 579,178 visitors were recorded in february, an increase of 27.81 percent over the past four years and 5.36 percent higher than the same period last year, disclosed Department of tourism (Dot) secretary Wanda tulfo teo.

Visitors from south Korea topped all other markets in february, reaching 150,598, representing 26 percent share of total inbound traffic in the Philippines and a 9.51 percent increase in Korean arrivals from the same period last year.

“We have maintained and even increased figures from south Korea and we expect to see further growth, as Korean tourists perceive our country as a distinctive global destination built on unique experiences and rich natural beauty,” said teo.

Completing the top five markets for the period are united states with 137,598 (23.76 percent); China with 78,251 (13.51 percent); Japan with 53,957 (9.32 percent); taiwan with 20,472 (3.53 percent), respectively.

As a result of stepped-up promotion efforts, other markets also showed an increase in february, as Australian arrivals rose by 9.32 percent (20,157), Canada arPAGE A3

PH maintains commitment to drug war alongside ASEAN

by PAtriCiA lourdes Philstar.com

VirAy

mANILA — the Philippines maintained its commitment to solving the drug problem jointly with the Association of southeast Asian Nations (AseAN) amid calls to take a stand against killings of suspected drug offenders.

London-based Amnesty International had called on southeast Asian leaders to stand against the Philippines’ war on drugs that has left thousands dead under President rodrigo Duterte. the government insists those killed in police operations were shot for fighting back against arresting teams. the rest have been explained as the handiwork of drug syndicates and vigilantes or as normal homicides.

Drug policy up to individual ASEAN member-states the Department of foreign Affairs said that the country remains committed to combating the drug menace in collaboration with the international community.

“We note AseAN’s position in the statement delivered at the 59th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) special session on march 14, 2016 that reaffirmed ‘the sovereign TIGHT WATCH. Policemen guard Gil Puyat Avenue as part of security measures around the venue of the 30th Association right and responsibility of each country to decide on the best of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit at the Philippine International Convention Center. PNP chief Director General approach to address its drug problem, taking into consideration Ronaldo dela Rosa said a total of 40,877 public servants from 21 different government agencies have been mobilized to help Inquirer.net photo by Alexis Corpuz PAGE A4 preserve order and security during the summit.

A

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April 28-mAy 4, 2017 • OC/iE ASiAN JOUrNAl

From the Front Page

Duterte tells New York Times: ‘Better stop...

PAGE A1 tional Criminal Court (ICC) against Duterte and 11 other officials.

The newspaper urged the ICC to launch a preliminary investigation into the killings linked to the administration’s war on illegal drugs.

“After he was elected president last year, Mr. Duterte took the killing campaign nationwide, effectively declaring an open season for

police and vigilantes on drug dealers and users,” the editorial read, citing over 9,400 deaths, most of whom are “poor young men, but also bystanders, children and political opponents.”

NYT, however, acknowledged that the ICC may be “reluctant” to prosecute Duterte since he is “enormously popular with many Filipinos.”

It also noted that the court may

only “prosecute cases of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes among member countries” if their national courts “are unwilling or unable to do so.”

“But there is already more than enough evidence for a preliminary investigation, which would send an unmistakable signal to Mr. Duterte that he may eventually have to answer for his crimes, and would encourage governments to take measures against him, such as imposing tariffs on Philippine goods,” the NYT said.

“And if the findings of Mr. Sabio, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and politicians, or the confessions of the former death squad members, are not enough evidence, there are Mr. Duterte’s savage words,” it added.

Earlier, Duterte’s legal counsel Salvador Panelo lambasted NYT from what he called a “reckless, irresponsible and baseless” editorial on Duterte.

“No findings have been made by any of the investigating body that conducted probe on the alleged extrajudicial killings, in fact, there is a finding by the Philippine Senate that the so-called extrajudicial killing are not state-sponsored or state-initiated,” Panelo noted.

“Therefore there is no basis in fact and in law in the editorial of the New York Times,” he added.

Meanwhile, Malacañang said that while it recognizes the newspaper’s right to an opinion, the government is in “clear disagreement” with the piece.

“The president was democratically elected to attack corruption and crime that have made so many Filipinos hostages to the criminals who had prospered through the rampant drug trade and other criminal activities that plagued our nation for decades,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

Describing drugs as a “cancer on our nation,” Abella stressed that Duterte’s number one priority is “to save lives and to improve the lot of all of our countrymen with the cooperation of law enforcement officials, public health professionals, civil society, and committed citizens.”

“Drugs are killing people in our country and around the world. Our president is committed to stopping this cancer on our nation and to building a better life for all Filipinos,” he further added.

READY FOR ACTION. Members of a quick reaction unit of the Philippine Coast Guard hold a drill in Manila Bay near the venue of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Leaders’ Summit. The government had deployed thousands of security personnel to secure delegates to the summit to be held later this week.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

Duterte: ICC has no jurisdiction...

PAGE A1 “The fundamental thing in our Revised Penal Code is territoriality. You can only be prosecuted in the country where you committed the crime,” the president said. “What are the features of our criminal system? One is territoriality.”

According to the ICC, it has jurisdiction if “the crimes were committed by a State Party national, or in the territory of a State Party, or in a State that has accepted the jurisdiction of the Court.” The Philippines ratified the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court in 2011.

“The Philippines, a democracy that champions international law and the rule of law, views being party to the Rome Statute of the ICC as a vital part of the on-going global campaign to end impunity and violence against individuals and to further strengthen a rules-based international system, specifically in relation to international human rights law and humanitarian law,” Philippine Permanent Representative Ambassador Libran Cabactulan said when the Philippines deposited the instruments of ratification of the Rome Statute that year.

On Monday, April 24, Jude Sa-

bio, lawyer of Edgar Matobato, filed a 77-page complaint titled “The Situation of Mass Murder in the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte: The Mass Murderer” before the ICC at the Hague, alleging that the drug-related killings could be considered part of “crime against humanity.”

Matobato and Arthur Lascañas both admitted publicly last year that they were members of a killing squad allegedly under Duterte’s control which he used to eliminate drug suspects, criminals and political opponents.

In the complaint, Sabio asked the ICC prosecutor to conduct a preliminary examination and a formal investigation that could lead to the issuance of arrest warrants against Duterte and 11 other government officials.

Sabio said that there were similarities between the extrajudicial killings done in Davao City when Duterte was still its mayor and the deaths happening now during the conduct of the government’s war on drugs.

Sabio used as basis the testimonies of Matobato and Lascañas who both said that Duterte ordered the killings in Davao and paid them for these.

Sabio cited the principle of complementarity, saying that

based on Article 17 of the Statute of Rome the ICC could step in since Philippine authorities had not done any national inquiry nor investigation into the possibility criminal liability of the chief executive and his senior government figures over the killings.

“In the clear absence of such specific national inquiry or investigation by the Duterte government in the Philippines involving specifically the criminal responsibility or liability of President Duterte as Mayor and later as President and of his senior administration officials there is, on that factual basis alone, sufficient and full compliance with the principle of complementarity under Article 17 of the Rome Statute,” he said in his complaint.

‘Anyone can file a complaint’ Duterte also told reporters that he would not bother reading the communication filed at the ICC, saying that he was ready to prison anyway.

He also brushed aside the filing of the charge and said that anybody could file charges.

“Let them be. [Unintelligible] can stop you from filing. I can even invent one and go to the fiscal’s office now, accuse you of entering into three marriages,” he said.

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Dateline USa

OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 28-mAy 4, 2017

What the deportation of first DREAMer means for Filipino DACA recipients

A

DACA beneficiary ordered back to Mexico by immigration officials

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

TWO months ago, agents from the Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) went against President Donald Trump’s promise to protect undocumented youth and deported an undocumented Mexican immigrant.

An officer from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection approached Juan Manuel Montes, 23, who moved to the U.S. at 9 years old, in Calexico, Calif. on February 17 and began interrogating him.

He was arrested when he couldn’t produce identification or proof of his status at the time, and three hours later, was deported back to Mexico.

Montes was the first arrested recipient of former President Barack Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, a landmark executive order that grants benefits and opportunities for undocumented youth.

Montes’ arrest marks the first arrest made against a recipient since Trump’s entrance into office. On Tuesday, April 18 – about two months after his arrest – officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) “Some people told me that they were going to deport me; others said nothing would happen,” Montes told USA TODAY.

“I thought that if I kept my nose clean nothing would happen.”

Although Trump touts an iron fist approach to immigration, he has previously wavered on his plans for DACA recipients.

In January, he assured that he wouldn’t revoke DACA, telling ABC News that DREAMers “shouldn’t be very worried. I do have a big heart.”

Since its introduction in 2012 by former President Barack Obama, DACA has provided benefits for more than 750,000 undocumented youth in the United States. The specific benefits vary from state to state, but DACA – which is renewable every two years – guarantees work authorization and protections from deportation.

Previously, DHS Secretary John Kelly and U.S. House Speaker Paul Ryan have assured that the DACA program will remain intact, but Montes’ arrest puts many immigrant rights activists at an unease.

Legal and civil rights organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice - LA has been vocal about its disdain for the Trump administration’s immigration policies, accusing it of “preying upon members of the undocumented community.”

“Filipino DACA recipients are now more concerned and uncertain about their future in the United States due to these new immigration policies and

increase in hate crimes across the nation,” Advancing Justice - LA legal advocate Tiffany Panlilio wrote to the Asian Journal in an email. “As service providers, it is troubling to see those who have thrived under the DACA program who are now labeled as enforcement priorities due to a past order of deportation or a crime they committed years ago.”

Panlilio emphasized the importance of DACA and how it has benefitted undocumented Filipino youth. Previously, Panlilio told the Asian Journal that Advancing Justice – LA has helped undocumented youth become career-minded individuals through DACA, including helping out many aspiring Filipino nurses obtain work authorization and university enrollment through the program.

“DACA has positively changed the lives of many undocumented Filipinos by granting them the ability to legally work, provide for their families, pursue a higher education, and most importantly remain in the United States without fear of being separated from their families,” Panlilio added. “The DACA program continues to exist, but the new immigration policies brought forth by the new administration are allowing fear and anxiety to return to the community and force them back into the shadows.”

CONQUERING TANON STRAIT. In the pursuit of drumming up interest in the ongoing voter registration being conducted by the Commission on Elections, Election Officer Ingemar Macarine of Tubigon, Bohol on April 18, 2017 successfully crossed Tañon Strait in a record time of 11 hours and 21 minutes. The pioneering swim traversed the 24.65-km distance between Silliman Beach, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental and Tambisan Port, San Juan, Siquijor. Triathlete and environmental lawyer Macarine braved the choppy seas nonstop and unassisted, declaring it to be his most difficult swim to date. This round of voter registration will end on April 29, 2017, Friday. The COMELEC has no plans to extend the period beyond the set deadline.

Comelec photo

Senators urge Trump admin to continue...

PAGE A1

Trump in late January directed the review of various parole and asylum programs that are supposedly “used to prevent the lawful removal of removable aliens.”

The senators, however, argued that the case-by-case consideration, the bar on those with criminal backgrounds, and the eligibility requirements “safeguard the program from abuse.”

“We know you understand the contributions and sacrifices that these veterans and their families have made to our country,” the letter continued. “Therefore, we hope that [United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)] will continue its full implementation of the FWVP policy uninterrupted and that you work to address the needs of these veterans.”

PAGE A1 terms of extra expenses,” Rato its successor.

The FWVP program began “If there is a need to put some- mos recommended. sador to the United States.

Paynor previously served as Paynor’s deployment, how- body else before that, now or the ever, was postponed as he was next two or three months be- protocol chief to former Presigiven the task to serve as the di- cause of certain things happen- dents Ramos and Gloria Arroyo. rector-general for operations for ing, by all means, we should have He also served as Arroyo’s presPAGE A1 this year’s Association of South- one,” the former president said. idential assistant for state and rivals by 21.39 percent (19,016), He said leaving the position foreign visits. east Asian Nations (ASEAN) NaLikewise, he served Philippine and United Kingdom by 15.65 vacant is worrisome, citing the tional Organizing Council.

Currently, the Philippine Em- nearly 4 million Filipino Ameri- diplomatic posts in Israel and percent (15,226).

Among the top 12 markets, Cyprus, and as Consul General bassy in Washington is headed cans in the U.S. “But it must be a combination in Los Angeles and San Fran- Germany registered the highest

by Chargé d’Affaires Patrick Chper capital expenditure for Februuasoto, a career Philippine dip- of a well-known leader, who is cisco.

Before his foreign service ca- ary 2017. On average, a German recognized at least in the U.S., lomat.

According to Ramos, Duterte who has money backing him up reer, Paynor was a military offi- visitor spent Php 60,260.45 while could still appoint Paynor, but because it’s so expensive being cer. He graduated from the Phil- in the country.

The United Kingdom followed that would have to be after the there, or a career ambassador, ippine Military Academy in 1971 end of the year when Manila and there are so many of them, and retired in 1983 with the rank with per capita spending of Php 47,533.15, tailed by Canada with passes its ASEAN chairmanship backed up by the government in of lieutenant colonel. (AJPress)

FVR says Paynor is best choice for...

taking applications in June of last year. Individuals are generally granted parole in the U.S. for three years, according to USCIS. After four years of the program, the agency will assess whether the policy should continue.

There are 282 applications for the program currently, the senators said, citing USCIS data.

“These applications should be highly prioritized, as it is critical for family members to be reunited with their aging parents in need,” the letter concluded.

Gaspar Milla, the son of Filipino World War II veteran Jesus Milla, said that the program has been “a relief for the family.” The Millas were the first beneficiaries in Hawaii, Hirono’s office said, after a six-month application process.

“The Milla family gladly complied with the strict requirements

of the FWVP program so that they would have one last chance at being reunited with their 93-year-old mother and grandmother from whom they had been separated for more than 20 years,” Maile Hirota, the Milla family’s attorney said in a statement. “This program is the only way for the families of Filipino veterans finally to see justice for their aged mothers and fathers who served our country during WWII.” In addition to the parole program, another recognition under the Obama administration for these veterans was his signing of a bill last December that awards them with the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor to those whose service had been largely dismissed by prior acts of Congress. The awarding ceremony has yet to be conducted.

February tourist arrivals hit...

P43,761.75, then Korea with P38,714.46, and France with P37,354.40.

Also on a positive note, the Philippines has welcomed a total of 8,176 cruise passengers through various ports in the country.

Manila remained the country’s top cruise destination with recorded arrivals of 2,785 passengers, followed by Boracay with 1,145, Bohol with 692 passengers, and Pangasinan with 640 passengers.

“These numbers show that cruise tourism is one of the fastest growing segments in the Philippine tourism. This certainly gives us a positive outlook for the country’s cruise tourism market for this year,” said Teo. Combined positive results in January and February figures will have represented the 17.30 percent of the tourism sector’s target of seven million arrivals in 2017.

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April 28-mAy 4, 2017 • OC/iE ASiAN JOUrNAl

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FDA takes action against 14 companies for selling illegal cancer treatments

THE U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted on Tuesday, April 25, warning letters addressed to 14 U.S.-based companies illegally selling more than 65 products that fraudulently claim to prevent, diagnose, treat or cure cancer. The products are marketed and sold without FDA approval, most commonly on websites and social media platforms.

“Consumers should not use these or similar unproven products because they may be unsafe and could prevent a person from seeking an appropriate and potentially life-saving cancer diagnosis or treatment,” said Douglas W. Stearn, director of the Office of Enforcement and Import Operations in the FDA’s Office of Regulatory Affairs. “We encourage people to remain vigilant whether online or in a store, and avoid purchasing products marketed to treat cancer without any proof they will work.

Patients should consult with their health care professional about proper prevention, diagnosis and

treatment of cancer.”

It is a violation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to market and sell products that claim to prevent, diagnose, treat, mitigate or cure diseases without first demonstrating to the FDA that they are safe and effective for their labeled uses. The illegally sold products cited in the warning letters posted include a variety of product types, such as pills, topical creams, ointments, oils, drops, syrups, teas and diagnostics (such as thermography devices).

They include products marketed for use by humans or pets that make illegal, unproven claims regarding preventing, reversing or curing cancer, killing/inhibiting cancer cells or tumors, or other similar anti-cancer claims.

The FDA has requested responses from the 14 companies stating how the violations will be corrected. Failure to correct the violations promptly may result in legal action, including product seizure, injunction, and/or criminal prosecution.

As part of the FDA’s effort to protect consumers from cancer health fraud, the FDA has issued more than 90 warning letters in the past 10 years to companies marketing hundreds of fraudulent products making cancer claims on websites, social media, and in stores. Although many of these companies have stopped selling the products or making fraudulent claims, numerous unsafe and unapproved products continue to be sold directly to consumers due in part to the ease with which companies can move their marketing operations to new websites. The FDA continues to monitor and take action against companies promoting and selling unproven treatments in an effort to minimize the potential dangers to consumers and to educate consumers about the risks.

The FDA encourages health care professionals and consumers to report adverse reactions associated with these or similar products to the agency’s MedWatch program.

Legislation to ensure Californians have safe drinking water passes committee SACRAMENTO – Legislation by Sen. Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys) to ensure that all Californians have access to safe, affordable drinking water recently passed the Senate Environmental Quality Committee.

SB 778 establishes the Safe Drinking Water Fund, a fund administered by the State Water Resources Control Board to support the human right to water. Specifically, the bill provides funds for the control board to intervene when local agencies are failing to provide drinkable water to residents and order remedies, such as appointing an administrator, to rectify the situation.

The bill passed the committee on a bipartisan 5-0 vote, with two other committee members expected to add on before the hearing concludes. SB 778 goes next to the Senate Appropriations Committee for consideration.

“We’ve all read about the immense problems with municipal water in Flint, Michigan and how devastating that has been for the city, its residents and its economy,” Hertzberg said. “The truth

is California is full of communities with similar problems, and in 2017 that is completely unacceptable. This legislation provides a mechanism to fund action, so the state can do what is necessary to make sure all Californians have access to clean water.”

Under existing law, all Californians have a right to safe, clean, and affordable water for drinking, cooking and cleaning. However, many Californians living in the most disadvantaged communities are forced to rely on contaminated groundwater for their drinking water needs, and thousands of families are in homes with tap water that is so polluted that it cannot be safely consumed.

These communities often lack the resources needed to operate and maintain water treatment systems to deliver safe water to their residents. The State Water Resources Control Board currently maintains a list of underresourced water systems on the Human Right to Water web portal, and according to the website, 292 public water systems are out of compliance with fed-

eral drinking water standards for contaminants such as nitrate and arsenic.

In recent years, some small water systems in disadvantaged communities have returned to compliance by consolidating with larger public water systems under authority granted in the 2015-16 state budget. If consolidation with another system is not appropriate or feasible, the water control board may intervene under state health and safety code to provide administrative, technical and managerial support or financial assistance for capital improvements or operations.

This legislation sets up a fund to pay for these activities. The bill also requires the water control board to publish the outcomes of the consolidations, including whether or not the consolidated systems are now being served with safe and affordable drinking water.

SB 778 is supported by Clean Water Action, the Community Water Center and the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability.

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The Philippine delegation attending the Global Specialty Coffee Expo in Seattle, Washington on 20-23 April 2017 and the Port to-Cup Coffee Tour in Seattle and Portland on April 24-29.

PH coffee recognized at global coffee expo WASHINGTON, D.C. – Philippine Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for High Value Commercial Crops Development Evelyn Laviña led the Philippine delegation to the Global Specialty Coffee Expo hosted by the Specialty Coffee Association of America in Seattle, Washington on 20-23 April 2017.

For the first time in Philippine Coffee History, Philippine coffee varieties from different production areas were cupped and graded by certified Q graders from across the globe following the cupping protocol of the Specialty Coffee Association of America.

These included the winning Robusta and Arabica coffee varieties in the recently concluded Kape Pilipino Coffee Competition held in Cavite State University, Philippines.

The said winning varieties were produced by two members of the Philippine delegation, namely, Imelda Mendoza of Kape Maramag Association and Bai Adelina Tarino of Inhandig Tribal MultiPurpose Cooperative, both coffee farmers from Bukidnon.

Through the joint efforts of the Philippine Coffee Board and the Agricultural Cooperative Development International and Volunteers in Overseas Cooperative Assistance (ACDI/VOCA), and in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine coffee farmers are now being prepared to compete with

the world market.

“This ‘cupping’ at the Global Coffee Expo in Seattle, Washington is a prelude to making the world know of Philippine coffee,” said Undersecretary Laviña.

Cupping is important for coffee farmers to know the value of their coffee produce and for them to know the right price for their coffee.

The Coffee Quality Institute also showcased Philippine coffee in its booth and recognized the Bukidnon-based coffee farmers during its 19th Annual luncheon held on 23 April 2017.

After the Coffee Expo, the Philippine delegation will participate in the “Port-to-Cup Coffee Tour” supported and organized

by Atlas Coffee and the Coffee Quality Institute, to visit facilities in Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon.

The Philippine Specialty Coffee Industry will have the chance to physically see the path coffee takes once it arrives in the United States, to better understand the US Specialty Coffee industry, and to further develop direct relationships with some top coffee roasters and retailers. It is meant as an opportunity for roasters and coffee shop owners, and other coffee stakeholder to talk about coffee, including storage, transport, roasting techniques, roast curves, packaging, equipment, and other details of the trade.

While noting the tight competition in the global market for coffee, Philippine Agriculture

Attaché to the United States Dr. Josyline C. Javelosa is optimistic that with the climatic and soil conditions in key areas of the Philippines, the farmers’ sustainable practices and the joint focus and efforts of the government and private sector in developing the specialty coffee industry in partnership with trading partners, quality Philippine coffee can have its niche in the United States and the world, and the premium price it can potentially enjoy will be expected as a means to increase the incomes of smallholder coffee farmers.

According to a 2015 consumer survey conducted by National Coffee Association of America, 48% of U.S. coffee cups are perceived by the consumer to be specialty. The retail value of the U.S. coffee market is estimated to be $48 billion dollars with specialty comprising approximately 55% value share.

ACDI/VOCA implements the four-year USDA Food for Progress Mindanao Productivity for Agricultural Commerce and Trade (MinPACT) project. MinPACT increases the incomes of smallholder cocoa, coconut, and coffee farming families in Southern and Western Mindanao. ACDI/VOCA and its partners do this by strengthening farmers’ capacity and that of other value chain actors for improved farm management, increased productivity, product quality, available services, and access to markets.

PH maintains commitment to...

PAGE A1 the context and norms of its society,’” the DFA said in a statement released Thursday.

Amnesty International earlier said that ASEAN leaders must consider if there is a serious breach of the 10-member regional bloc’s charter, particularly on human rights, given that up to 9,000 people have been killed since July 2016.

“As the death toll mounts, so does evidence of the Philippines authorities’ role in the

bloodshed,” said Champa Patel, Amnesty’s director for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

The international human rights watchdog also called on authorities to conduct an investigation into all drug-related killings and to press charges against suspects.

Meanwhile, presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said that “the so-called extrajudicial killings are not state-sanctioned or state-sponsored.”

Earlier this year, Amnesty In-

ternational released a report that said President Rodrigo Duterte is one of the leaders “wielding a toxic agenda that hounds, scapegoats and dehumanizes entire groups of people.”

The 408-page annual report named Duterte, US President Donald Trump, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as fear-mongering anti-establishment politicians. (With reports from Associated Press

California judge blocks part of Trump’s...

PAGE A1 the president disapproves,” Orrick wrote in his decision to the lawsuit filed by the City and County of San Francisco and Santa Clara County, which argued that over $2 billion in federal funding was in question.

On January 25, Trump signed an executive order — “Enhancing the Public Safety in the Interior of the United States” — that directed the stripping of federal funds for areas that do not cooperate with federal law enforcement agencies and do not hand over undocumented immigrants who are subject to deportation.

Those who do not comply “are not eligible to receive federal grants, except as deemed necessary for law enforcement purposes by the Attorney General or the Secretary,” the order read.

The injunction will remain as it moves through court, according to The Associated Press.

The White House called the ruling “yet one more example of egregious overreach by a single, unelected district judge.”

“San Francisco, and cities like it, are putting the well-being of criminal aliens before the safety of our citizens, and those city officials who authored these policies have the blood of dead Americans on their hands,” the White House’s statement also said.

The president took to his Twitter account to express his reaction to another executive order that is facing a legal setback.

“First the Ninth Circuit rules against the ban & now it hits again on sanctuary cities — both ridiculous rulings. See you in the Supreme Court!” he wrote.

While it was not the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit that issued Tuesday’s decision, the court will hear the White House’s appeal to the ruling.

U.S. District Judge William Orrick

Last week, the Department of Justice (DOJ) sent letters to nine areas across the country — which were identified by the DOJ’s inspector general last May as having laws that potentially violate federal law — reminding them that in order to obtain funding this year, they have until June 30 to provide proof that they are cooperating and sharing information with federal immigration enforcement.

Among the recipients were the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and officials in Las Vegas, New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, New Orleans, Miami, Milwaukee, and Cook County, Illinois.

Various elected officials and immigration advocates across the country hailed the court’s ruling.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said it was “good news and reminds us that people’s rights transcend political stunts.”

“It is time for the federal government to stop attacking cities and scapegoating immigrants, and begin focusing on the hard work of comprehensive immigration reform,” he further said in his statement.

The LA mayor has repeatedly

vowed that the city’s police department would not serve “as a federal immigration force.”

San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee said the city would remain a sanctuary jurisdiction, arguing that such areas “are safer, healthier, more productive places to live.”

“San Francisco’s sanctuary city laws are in compliance with federal law. If the federal government believes there is a need to detain a serious criminal they can obtain a criminal warrant, which we will honor, as we always have,” he said in a statement.

A day after the ruling, on Wednesday, April 26, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office devoted to helping victims of crimes committed by undocumented immigrants.

“The president’s callous exploitation of isolated tragedies for political and ideological gain is profoundly irresponsible,” a coalition of immigrant and civil rights groups in California said in a statement, adding that the administration is “trying to demonize millions of people who are a vital part of our communities.” (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)

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A

Pacquiao confident of winning against Horn

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

He’s not going to take his new challenger lightly but eight-division world champion Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is confident that he’ll win against Australian Jeff Horn.

For the first time on Wednesday, April 26, Pacquiao met Horn in Brisbane, Australia. “If you ask inside my heart, I have confidence to win the fight, but I’m not taking it lightly,” the Filipino boxer said.

“I’m not underestimating him.”

Pacquiao, 38, previously admitted that he’s never heard of Horn but said he knew the clash would result in a very thrilling fight.

“I want an opponent that wants to fight toe-to-toe, throwing a lot

of punches, aggressive,” Pacquiao said. “My style is to throw a lot of punches and I believe that will be very effective for Jeff Horn’s style.

That’s why I accepted this fight.

Horn, 29, will try to steal Pacquiao’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight crown in a match dubbed as “Battle of Brisbane” this coming July 2 in suncorp stadium, Australia.

The Australian boxer said he might be raw compared to veteran Pacquiao but that doesn’t mean Manny should overlook what he’s got.

“He’s done so much. He’s fought a lot of champions,” Horn said. “[But] if he underestimates me, he’s going to know about it July 2. It’s going to be a very tough fight — he’s going to see that.”

Pacquiao has record of 59-6-2

win-loss-draw. He won his last match via unanimous decision and defended his WBO welterweight title against Jessie Vargas last year.

Horn, on the other hand, has a record of 16-0-1 and 11 KOs. Top Rank Chief Bob Arum, who first saw Horn in his fight in New Zealand last November, likened the upcoming match to a young lion challenging the alpha of the pride.

“This fight certainly has that theme,” he said.

Arum initially endorsed Pacquiao’s match against undefeated Horn on April 23 but it was put on hold as the possibility of a match against Britain’s Amir Khan this coming May in the United Arab emirates (UAe) was explored.

Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn pose during a press conference Wednesday, April 26 promoting their July 2 fight in Brisbane, Australia.

Photo from Manny Pacquiao’s Twitter account

Poe, Gordon reiterate stance against death penalty Robredo, Marcos welcome setting of pre-trial for poll protest by auDrey

Morallo Philstar.com

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

WITH several days left before the Congress resumes session in May, two senators expressed anew their opposition against the revival of capital punishment in the Philippines.

In a chance interview on Wednesday, April 26, senator Grace Poe, a member of the majority bloc, said the death penalty is not the only solution to the country’s problems.

“Alam mo, hindi lang naman death penalty ang solusyon (You know, death penalty is not the only solution),” Poe told reporters when asked about her stand on the matter. “sa ating lipunan, kailangan diyan ay mayroong kasamang law enforcement, community.

Kasama na din diyan ang hudikatura (Our society also needs to have law enforcement, community. And the judiciary is also included).”

While Poe admitted she considered capital punishment for heinous crimes before, she said that what the country needs first is a judicial reform.

According to her, without judicial reforms, those who cannot afford good lawyers and those who are afraid of police officers will only become victims of unorganized justice and enforcement system.

“Kung hindi natin ire-reform, halimbawa masasabi ba natin na talagang repormado na ang ating kapulisan para mabawasan, halimbawa, ang pagpaplanta ng ebidensya? Yun ang aking pag-aalala ngayon (If we don’t have reforms, can we say that, for example, the police are truly reformed and there will be lesser evidence planting? That’s what I’m worried about now),” Poe added.

Last week, senator Richard Gordon also maintained his stance against the reimposition of death penalty, saying “improved prison system and a stricter policy on life imprisonment would deter criminality more effectively.”

“It’s a bigger deterrent kapag nakita na nakakulong yung ma-

Senator Richard Gordon

Senator Grace Poe

samang tao at nahihirapan (if you see the bad guy behind bars, suffering),” Gordon told reporters on saturday, April 23.

He further added, “Pati ang pamilya mahihirapan, kasi magdadala ka ng pagkain, bibisita ka, malulungkot ka. Wala pang maghahanap-buhay para sa pamilya. Lalong mahirap yun kesa pinatay ka na lang tapos makakalimutan din. Kaya yung iba, papatay na naman o gagawa na naman ng ibang krimen (Even the family will suffer because they need to bring food and visit, and they will be said. Also, nobody will be breadwinner of the family. That’s harder than just killing you and you will just be forgotten. So others will kill again or commit other crimes).”

The House of Representatives passed its version of the bill last month. The senate, meanwhile, has yet to reach a consensus.

Gordon, who is also chair of the senate committee on justice and human rights, assured that he “will be fair in conducting the hearings.”

“Though I’m personally against the reimposition of the death penalty, I don’t think there is a need for me to inhibit as chair,” he said. “I will be fair in conducting the hearings and when it’s time to sponsor the bill on the floor, I can assign one of the proponents of the bill to sponsor it. It has been done before.” earlier, senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said the death penalty bill would be “dead” in

the senate, saying 13 senators were “likely to vote” against it.

“By my own estimate, there are at least thirteen senators who will block the passage of the death penalty bill, including the six-member minority group and seven from the majority block,” Drilon said, without specifying names.

Apart from Drilon, other minority members are senators Bam Aquino, Leila De Lima, Risa Hontiveros, Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, and Antonio “sonny” Trillanes IV. “It’s dead and the chances of resurrecting it before we even bring it to a vote are very slim, if not zero, at least in this Congress,” Drilon said.

He went on to say, “We are ready to lead the fight against the death penalty bill. We believe that a death penalty law was not and will never be an effective deterrence against crime.”

“It will be detrimental to the poor who will be made victims of this cruel and inhumane punishment due to the inefficiencies of our judicial system,” he added.

Latest figures from social Weather stations (sWs) showed that three out of five Filipinos approve the reimposition of capital punishment for drug-related crimes.

In the survey, which was conducted from March 25 to 28, 61 percent of 1,200 adult respondents “strongly or somewhat approve” of the measure while 23 percent “somewhat or strongly disapprove.”

Cayetano: Fight vs Torre de Manila not over

by Delon

Porcalla Philstar.com

MANILA - Without necessarily conceding defeat, House Deputy speaker Pia Cayetano said the petition against the construction of the 49-story Torre de Manila, dubbed the “photo bomber” at the monument of national hero Jose Rizal in Manila’s Rizal Park, was a battle worth fighting for.

“It’s not consumatum est yet for this advocacy,” said Cayetano, who was a senator and head of the senate committee on education, arts and culture when it launched an investigation on the controversial building in 2014.

Voting 9-6, the supreme Court dismissed last Tuesday, April 25, the petition to stop the Torre de Manila construction that was filed in september 2014 by the Order of the Knights of Rizal, a civic group established in 1911 to uphold the ideals of Rizal.

The petitioners argued that the placement of the building ruins the sight line behind the Rizal monument, thus devaluing the historic site, and that it violated Manila zoning laws.

“I’d like to read the full text of the decision before I make any comments,” she said.

“But for now, I will work on finalizing a draft bill that ensures full protection of our national heritage sites to include not just their physical integrity but also their visual corridors, so that this does not happen again,” Cayetano added.

But administration lawmaker

“It’s not consumatum est yet for this advocacy,” said Cayetano, who was a senator and head of the Senate committee on education, arts and culture when it launched an investigation on the controversial building in 2014.

Rep. Gus Tambunting of Parañaque lauded the sC decision.

“We have to abide by what our laws say. We cannot hold DMCI liable if they didn’t violate any laws at the time they procured the permits and started construction,” the chairman of the House committee on games and amusement said.

Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas was glad that the high court finally set the record straight on the controversy. “This issue sent mixed signals to both our local and foreign investors who have always been wary of our flip-flopping policies. And such

scares them away.”

Cayetano still lamented that the country’s so-called “national photobomber” Torre de Manila will forever cast a long and dark shadow over Rizal monument.

“This brings much sadness to me and heritage advocates because it degrades the sacredness of the Rizal Monument,” she said.

“I do not regret fighting for this, though. It is a fight that has brought to the consciousness of our people the importance of protecting and preserving our cultural heritage and historical landmarks,” she said.

MANILA — Vice President Leni Robredo and defeated vice presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. both welcomed on Wednesday, April 26, the decision of the supreme Court (sC) to set the preliminary conference for the latter’s electoral protest in June.

In a statement, Romulo Macalintal, Robredo’s lawyer, said that they welcome the decision and want the case to be resolved quickly to remove any doubts on the legitimacy of the vice president’s mandate.

“We welcome the Presidential electoral Tribunal’s decision and want the case resolved at the soonest to remove any questions on the legitimacy of the victory of VP Leni,” Macalintal said.

Vic Rodriguez, spokesperson for Marcos, said that they also welcomed decision, saying that the preliminary conference would enable the former senator to prove that the vice presidency was “stolen.” early on Wednesday, the sC, sitting as the Presidential electoral Tribunal (PeT), set PeT Case 005 (Marcos vs. Robredo) for preliminary conference at 2 p.m. on June 21. The preliminary conference will enable the two parties to narrow down the conflict for a

Vice Pres. Leni Robredo and former Sen. Bongbong Marcos

speedier disposition of the case.

In January, Rodriguez filed a motion before the PeT to set the preliminary conference for the case for his electoral protest to move forward.

Last week, Marcos, allegedly with the help of friends and supporters, paid an initial cash deposit of P36 million to cover the cost of the retrieval of election documents needed in his electoral protest against Robredo.

The vice president, through Macalintal, said that Marcos should not only pay P66 million for the more than 36,400 clustered precincts he was questioning. she said that the son of the late dictator should pay P185 million to cover the cost for 92,509 clustered precincts.

On Tuesday, April 25, the PeT ordered Robredo to pay the initial

Philstar.com file photo

tranche of the P15 million needed for her counter-protest against Marcos. The PeT rejected Robredo’s March 21 motion for reconsideration of its earlier decision ordering the vice president to pay the amount.

Macalintal said the vice president’s legal team was ready for the conference and confident that the electoral protest of Marcos would be dismissed. He said this would expose the weakness and insufficiency in form of the Marcos protest.

Robredo defeated Marcos in last year’s vice presidential election with a thin margin of more than 200,000 votes. The vice president, the widow of Jesse Robredo, a Ramon Magsaysay awardee for government service, has always maintained the legitimacy of her victory.

A

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april 28-may 4, 2017 • OC/iE aSiaN JOUrNal

OpiniOn

Features

Excursion

WITH bilateral relations between China and the Philippines blossoming in multiple fronts, the territorial dispute in the South China Sea or West Philippine Sea is an issue the two countries cannot simply dance around anymore.

Over the weekend, Beijing protested the visit by Manila’s defense and military chiefs to Pag-Asa, or Thitu Island, a disputed area in the South China Sea. The Philippine contingent was carried off by an Air Force C-130 transport plane on Friday, April 21 to assert the country’s claim to the disputed area where China is believed to have added missiles on man-made islands.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang expressed China’s displeasure over the high-profile Philippine visits to the island, saying China was “gravely concerned about and dissatisfied” by the island visits and adding that China “has lodged representations with the Philippine side.”

Manila maintains that it owns the territory, which is part of an island municipality under its western province of Palawan and is where some Filipino troops and villagers have lived for decades.

“The visit of the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to Pag-asa Island is part of the efforts to improve the safety, welfare, livelihood of Filipinos residing and living in the municipality of Kalayaan, which is part of the province of Palawan,” said Presidential Spokesperson ernesto Abella.

Malacañang earlier confirmed that representatives from the two countries have set up a meeting in May to craft a bilateral mechanism on how

to “properly handle” maritime disputes. The scheme aims to forge mutual trust and maritime cooperation, and to further avoid misunderstandings and provocations over the issue.

President Rodrigo Duterte is set to visit China next month for the “One Belt, One Road” summit upon the invitation of President Xi Jinping.

China will also host a meeting in May with members of the Association of the Southeast Asian Nations (ASeAN) to discuss the completion of a framework on the Code of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which mandates selfrestraint and non-militarization in the contested waters.

The Asian powerhouse claims the largest swathe of the strategic waters and has been increasingly assertive in pressing its ownership over the disputed areas against its smaller neighbors such as the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

The sea has played a major role in globalization. But it has also provided an access for actions of oppression, drug trafficking, illegal immigration, smuggling, and other illegal activities.

Because of the many opportunities (and dangers) that lie in the sea, countries invest on their maritime forces to man the waters surrounding their nations not only to establish peace and security, but also protect their sovereignty. (AJPress)

Editorial

Street Talk GreG B. MacaBenta The usual skeptics have dismissed as pie-in-the-sky the recent announcement concerning the “infrastructure boom” that the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte plans to undertake.

According to them, it is wishful thinking to expect the “build, build, build” objective of “Dutertenomics” to get much farther than “plan, plan, plan” by the time Duterte’s term expires in 2022. In other words, they think the boom will be a bust.

I frankly think that the government should be given every encouragement and support for the ambitious plans to be realized. however, a reality check may be necessary.

A public relations colleague, who prefers to remain unnamed, sent me a paper concerning the way government works. he appears familiar with the system. I think his views deserve serious thought: Almost a year has passed under the presidency of Rodrigo R. Duterte, but many big-ticket infrastructure projects that his economic planners have been harping about remain just that: plans.

It is dawning upon the agencies of the administration that launching big-ticket projects are not as easy as they were hyped.

Lending countries will have to

evaluate the Feasibility Studies submitted for these infrastructure projects before the actual funding agreement is given approval. This process takes usually 12 months to 24 months.

Once approval is secured by the beneficiary country, Detailed Design and engineering (DDe) takes place, which takes another 12 months to 24 months. Then there is the Financial Closure which Atty. Arnel Casanova, formerly BCDA Chair said in one forum “may take 24 months to 36 months”.

Before the first track is laid out, the President is already on his way out.

The government, as part of its 8- point economic agenda, is also currently fine-tuning its grand plan to entice private sector players to invest in building transport infrastructure. Among these are railway infrastructure projects such the North-South Commuter Railway and the Mindanao express, all of which are now on the drawing board. Other projects which sound fantastic on paper are the planned 85km ManilaClark railway, the 60km ClarkSubic freight train, and TutubanCalamba freight train projects.

But how long will these plans stay on the drawing board?

The slow pace of the implementation of these crucial projects is unfortunate as the country’s transport system is essential in the operation of a market economy. It has a broad role in shaping development and the environment.

Our inefficient transportation

Philstar.com photo

Infrastructure boom… or bust?

system has severely impacted daily commuters and motorists, creating a domino effect on industries’ bottom line, and economic development as a whole.

Today, we have the worst traffic condition in the world, according to traffic app Waze.

One would think that with Secretary Tugade’s recent go-ahead that the MRAIL project should be given priority and the proponent be encouraged to commence immediately, we can now breathe a sigh of relief that at least one major transport infrastructure project has roared off the starter’s block.

Unfortunately, old habits die hard within the Philippine government’s stultifying bureaucracy where its faceless mantra rules: “what starts at the drawing board, ends at the drawing board.”

To date, a myriad of stumbling blocks, minefields and other incessant bureaucratic tripwires continue to hound the final go ahead for the MRAIL project, from PNR board approvals to DOTr technical conditions/demands. At the rate these roadblocks keep coming up, the soft opening directed by Secretary Tugade within a year’s time will remain just that: a plan.

Recently, Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez and Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade have switched to a “build, build, build” mantra. Colorful sloganeering, but in order to “build, build, build”, you need to have “power, power, power.” • The shortage of electricity supply also leads to structurally

high electricity prices. The high cost of electricity is a deterrent to foreign investments, and poses a problem to businesses that are already invested in the country.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate committees on energy and economic affairs, recognizes that the problem which stymies the country’s economic development is the low power capacity of the Philippines in general, and some big islands in particular. • During his first committee hearing looking into ”institutionalizing energy projects as Projects of National Significance”, he noted that there are many big committed and indicative power plants lining up for investment, but they often encounter bureaucratic delays.

162 clearances, 102 permits for a power plant!

One of the papers he received complained that regulatory permit approval in Philippine electricity generation showed that on average, “power plant operators need to secure 162 clearances and 102 permits.”

I’m reminded of the complaint of a friend, the former chairman of a government corporation, concerning the red tape he had to bear with during the six years of his tenure (he was appointed by President Benigno Aquino III). he saw the need to upgrade the corporation’s computer system, as well as replace the elevator. None of that happened up to the time a Duterte appointee took over his job. And, mind you, he was chairman of the board.

I think this is where

Duterte’s santong paspasan management style should be particularly useful. Perhaps, if he reads the riot act to the bureaucrats who require innumerable clearances, he can get a few infrastructure periods finished before his term ends.

And while he is at it, perhaps he should rethink such projects as the subway system that he plans to build in Metro Manila.

It’s a great idea. And if hongkong and Singapore can do it, by golly, the Philippines should also be able to build it. however, the floods that visit Metro Manila, as surely as death and taxes, will make the project even more expensive to undertake. A lesson can be learned from the flooding that hit the New York subway on July 25, 2016. Caused by hurricane Sandy, the damage forced an 18-month shutdown of the L Train, between western Brooklyn and Manhattan, affecting some 400,000 riders a day.

The damage itself cost the city over $4 billion.

Of course, the subway can be flood-proofed – the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) runs underwater across the bay, from San Francisco to Oakland – but that multiplies the cost. And the upbeat assurance by Transportation Undersecretary Noel Kintanar that building the subway will be less intrusive than construction an elevated railway system may be a bit naïve.

In San Francisco, the subway extension covering the short stretch from South of Market to Chinatown (approximately 1.5

miles) required shutting down one lane of 4th Street, as well as the business establishments, for several years.

On A. Santos Avenue (Sukat Road) in Parañaque, the pipelaying undertaken by Maynilad and began in 2015 is just nearing completion as of this date in 2017, with the dug-up lanes being restored. Meanwhile, residents of Parañaque have had to bear the worsening of an already bad traffic situation in that major business artery.

But, as I said, the subway is a great idea. In the meantime, however, maybe a more doable parallel project can be looked into that will also have a significant impact on the Metro Manila traffic situation.

Improve the Pasig River ferry service. Invest in more modern boats. Invest in more thoroughly and regularly clearing the river of water lilies and other debris. even offer subsidized fare to make the system more attractive to commuters. The man-hours saved and the resultant benefits in productivity, should more than justify it.

And, finally, persuade the bigtime developers to transform the terminals into business hubs that will motivate public transport operators to make them regular pick-up points.

And, oh yes, advertise and market the ferry service to remind people that it is a faster, more comfortable option than suffering :carmageddon.” (gregmacabenta@hotmail. com)

Correcting the injustice done against GMA CALL this an easter gift of an answered prayer Now that the SC has cleared PGMA, I dare demand for our dear friend, former President Gloria Ma- Shooting Straight from former President Aquino who was also a forcapagal Arroyo (GMA) who just got the news that mer student of PGMA to apologize for her nearly the Supreme Court voting 11-4 affirmed its earlier four-year incarceration. decision junking the former President’s Philippine Of course, we do not expect P-Noy to issue this Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) plunder case apology simply because, he doesn’t know what an that was filed against her allegedly for the misuse apology is. The fact is… he did not even apologize of P366 million in intelligence funds during the for the untimely deaths of eight hong Kong tourtime of Pres. Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III for “in- BoBit S. avila ists who were killed by a deranged police officer on sufficiency of evidence.” This SC decision speaks Aug. 23, 2010, which caused a diplomatic row with volumes of the grave injustice done against her during the Aquino China. regime! hmmm perhaps Noy would be better off apologizing for the haciWe have always believed that PGMA was innocent of anything and enda Luisita massacre or the impeachment of the late SC Chief Justice that the evidence pinned against her was very weak and that she did Renato Corona or the deaths of the 44 SAF troopers in Mamasapano! not deserve to be incarcerated at the Veterans Memorial Medical But I know that Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo doesn’t have a vinCenter (VMMC) for nearly four years, courtesy of then Department of dictive heart and for sure, she won’t file any charges against -P-Noy Justice (DoJ) Secretary Leila de Lima. This is why when people talk for the injustice done against her. I just wish that our justice system about the plight of Sen. De Lima; the majority say that she has tasted would come up with a way to correct an injustice when it stares us “Karma.” in the face. But then again, karma has its way of returning the favor But that the Aquino regime (led by P-Noy, DOJ Sec. Leila de Lima when the Office of the Ombudsman was forced to make P-Noy reand Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales) forced PGMA to remain spond on what was his role in the misuse of the Disbursement Acincarcerated at the VMMC only proves the vindictiveness of P-Noy. celeration Program (DAP)? (Philstar.com)

Former Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

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OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • ApRIL 28-mAy 4, 2017

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China mum on supporting legally De Lima urges LP to support Duterte impeachment binding South China Sea code by

Kristian JaVier Philstar.com

by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com

Viray

MANILA — Asked if Beijing is willing to support a legallybinding and enforceable Code of Conduct (COC) on the South China Sea, the Chinese Foreign Ministry only said that a framework will be finished by June.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said that the situation in the disputed waters is cooling down following joint efforts of China and Southeast Asian countries.

“According to my knowledge, China and ASEAN have agreed to seek to conclude the consultation on the draft of a COC framework by the first half of this year,” Geng said in a press briefing Wednesday.

Geng stressed that a COC is the “right track” in resolving the maritime dispute.

“The relevant parties have

returned to the right track of resolving disputes through negotiations and consultations, and are fully and effectively implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) as well as actively advancing the consultation on a COC,” Geng said.

However, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), under Philippine chairmanship this year, is likely to go soft on the sea row.

According to reports, a draft of the chairman’s statement for the 30th ASEAN Summit did not mention China’s island-building activities or the ruling of an international arbitral tribunal invalidating Beijing’s expansive maritime claims.

The draft statement only expressed serious concerns “by some leaders” over the “escalation of activities in the area.”

“We shared the serious concerns expressed by some lead-

ers over recent developments and escalation of activities in the area which may further raise tensions and erode trust and confidence in the region,” the draft statement said.

Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario has expressed disappointment over the statement’s treatment of the South China Sea developments.

Del Rosario has been urging the Philippine government to assert effective leadership in the ASEAN by bringing up the arbitral award.

“The draft of the Chairman’s Statement is deeply disappointing and, if not revisited, would manifest an absence of the desired leadership,” Del Rosario said in a statement released Wednesday.

The retired Foreign Affairs Secretary led the Philippines in filing the arbitration case against China’s nine-dash line claim over the disputed waters.

DOF, DOH link up to construct drug rehab facilities

by Mary

Grace Philstar.com

Padin

MANILA - The Department of Finance (DOF) has partnered with the Department of Health (DOH) for the construction of drug rehabilitation facilities to be funded by around $7.5 million in grants from China.

Under the memorandum of agreement signed by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial yesterday, the DOF will coordinate with the Chinese government to ensure the implementation of the program.

“The DOF will secure the approval of the DOH on all matters relating to the design and specifications of the drug rehabilitation centers,” Finance Assistant Secretary Maria Edita Tan said.

The health department is tasked to identify and provide the sites for the proposed drug rehabilitation facilities as well as securing the necessary permits for the construction, Tan said.

The DOH will also assist the Chinese government and its consultants in facilitating the construction of the rehabilitation centers.

According to the DOF, the funding for the establishment

MANILA — Sen. Leila de Lima on Tuesday urged her party mates in the Liberal Party (LP) to support the impeachment complaint filed against President Rodrigo Duterte.

In a statement on Tuesday, De Lima said that the impeachment complaint filed by Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano contained accusations “serious enough” to be heard and examined carefully by the Congress.

“I regard with serious reservations the decision of some members of the Liberal Party, especially those belonging to the so-called “supermajority coalition” in Congress, to refrain from extending their support to the impeachment complaint filed against President Duterte,” De Lima said.

The statement came after Deputy Speaker Romero “Miro” Quimbo said on Thursday that 15 members of the party agreed not to support the impeachment complaints against President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Leni Robredo.

“The LP House majority caucus members present categorically took a position that we will not support any of the impeachment

complaints filed against the leaders of the land,” Quimbo said Quimbo said that any impeachment complaint will only distract the members of the House, adding that it will only be “divisive as well as polarizing” if Congress took on the complaints.

In March, Alejano filed an impeachment complaint against Duterte for possible violation of the Constitution in issues of maritime rights, engagement in bribery and “other high crimes.”

In the same month, lawyer Oliver Lozano filed an impeachment complaint against Robredo for “betrayal of public trust” for sending a video message criticizing the president’s war against drugs to the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs.

“We owe it to the Filipino peo-

ple who elected us to be given the chance to participate in the national discourse of exacting accountability from our impeachable public officials, regardless of the outcome,” De Lima said.

She added that apathy will only “embolden” officials, who are abusive of their power and position.

“I hope that my party mates uphold the oath each one of us took before the Filipino electorate to fight tyranny and corruption by defending the rule of law, civil liberties and human rights,” the senator said.

De Lima, a staunch critic of Duterte, is currently detained at Camp Crame in Quezon City for her alleged involvement in the New Bilibid Prison drug trade during her time as justice chief.

World’s friendliest islands: Philippines takes top 4 spots by aurea

caLica Philstar.com

MANILA - Four Philippine islands, with Palawan as number one, have been voted as the top four friendliest in the world based on a survey by New York-based magazine, Travel + Leisure.

“While the politics of the nation have grown ever-more volatile, the people of the islands remain friendly to visitors exploring their scenic home. For many travelers, Under the memorandum of agreement signed by Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III and it’s especially helpful that English Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial yesterday, the DOF will coordinate with the Chinese government is one of the official languages of to ensure the implementation of the program. the Philippines, and that islanders are so welcoming of tourists,” an of the drug rehabilitation facili- Presidential Security Group.

Meanwhile, the Department article by Jess McHugh posted reties was part of the 100-million yuan grant pledged by China of the Interior and Local Gov- cently on the magazine’s website through an Agreement on Eco- ernment is looking into reports read.

Travelers looking for a serene nomic and Technical Coopera- that its project against illegal drugs dubbed “MASA MASID” getaway often take to an island, tion.

The agreement was signed (Mamamayang ayaw sa anom- seeking the solace of sun, sand,

by Dominguez and China Com- alya, Mamayang ayaw sa iligal and sea, according to McHugh, merce Minister Gao Hucheng na droga) is marred by irregu- and among the myriad options to choose from, T+L asked people during President Duterte’s state larities.

DILG officer-in-charge in its annual World’s Best Awards visit to Beijing last October.

Dominguez said the remain- Catalino Uy said they received survey to score travel experiences ing funds would be used to pro- reports that huge amount of across the globe, evaluating everycure equipment for the Philip- money was collected from dif- thing from cruise lines and airports pine National Police, Philippine ferent barangays for the proj- to resorts, cities and hotels.

When it came to islands, readDrug Enforcement Agency and ect.

ers scored the best according to characteristics like romantic charm and the friendliness of the people.

“Some of the more remote islands dominated this year’s list of the world’s friendliest, with spots in the Philippines accounting for all of the top four destinations,” McHugh wrote.

In Palawan, “people are very welcoming, respectful, and friendly,” the magazine quoted one “thrilled T+L reader about their experience” in the place.

“The island’s green-and-turquoise lagoons have long put it on the bucket lists of travelers around the world, and this year it is also the world’s most convivial island destination,” T + L said.

In second spot is Cebu, described by the magazine as “a former Spanish colony, and people still travel to see the remaining architecture.”

“Of course, the helpful locals are one of the island’s greatest qualities,” the magazine noted.

Third is Luzon, “the largest island of the Philippines, home both to coral reefs as well as the capital

of the country, Manila,” T+L said, adding “the island is also extremely diverse, making it a dynamic destination for travelers seeking a rich cultural experience.”

Boracay landed in fourth spot and a photo of the beach with its white sand and pristine waters was captioned: “Settle in at a spa or go diving for shipwrecks at this small island, which is just as beloved for its welcoming people as it is for its undeniable beauty.”

“With views like these, it’s hard not to be happy,” the magazine’s tagline for The World’s Friendliest Islands read.

Completing the list of friendliest islands in the world are Waiheke, New Zealand (5th); Ischia, Italy (6th); Tasmania, Australia (7th); Fiji Islands (8th); Bali, Indonesia (9th); Great Barrier Reef Islands (10th); Moorea (11th); Paros, Greece (12th); Bora Bora (13th); Exhumas, Bahamas (14th); and Caye Culker, Belize (15th).

“Travelers in need of a hospitable, personable island retreat should consider this list a definitive guide to the friendliest islands on Earth,” T+L said.

A

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2

How Madrid Fusion Manila is putting PH on the map as a gastronomic destination in Asia

by MoMar

MADRID Fusion Manila, the global gastronomic gathering is back for a third serving and it is larger than ever, and along with it is the more long-term goal of establishing the Philippines as an important and vibrant culinary destination in the region.

Held for three days at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, Madrid Fusion this year focused on sustainability in the culinary industry as the award-winning and Michelin-starred chefs invited to deliver their talks discussed ways in which they run their respective kitchens where they showcase innovations and cutting-edge techniques in creating exquisite dishes.

“The whole world now gets to see the Philippines as a culinary destination. We really want to promote the Philippines this way,” Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo told the Asian Journal. “More than just a celebration of gastronomy of the highest order, Madrid Fusion is instrumental in spreading the word that Filipino chefs are worldclass and that the Philippines is poised to be the center of gastronomy in Asia.”

More than 1,400 Filipino foodies from around the world, people with passionate love for food and cooking and industry professionals gathered under one venue to celebrate yet another year of gastronomic experience and thereby giving Filipino cuisine the international prestige it deserves. This year’s delegates come from China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Taiwan, Denmark, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

“Today, food forecasts for 2017 have predicted the Philippines as the place where the next big food trend will start, and many articles have been written worldwide about how the food scene in the

Chef Pedro Subijana is the man behind Akelarre, a restaurant in San Sebastian, Spain that has been open since 1974 and has three Michelin stars.

G. Visaya/AJPress

Philippines is heating up,” said Tourism director Verna CovarBuensuceso earlier this year at the Madrid Fusion 2017 held at the Palacio Municipal de Congresos in Madrid.

Among this year’s featured chefs for International Gastronomy Congress were 19 celebrated Filipino culinary chefs and Michelin-starred culinary chefs from Asia, Europe and the Americas led by Gert de Mangeeler (Hertog Jan, Belgium), Jordi Roca and Alejandra Rivas Gomez (El Celler de Can Roca, Spain) and Pedro Subijana (Akelare, Spain), all of whom have three Michelin stars each, one of the toughest achievements in the restaurant industry.

Two Michelin star holders Paco Perez (Miramar, Spain), Julien Royer (Odette, Singapore) and Magnus Ek (Oaxen Krog & Slip, Sweden) and Simon Rogan (L’Enclume, England) joined the aforementioned chefs as presenters.

The half-Filipino, half-French sisters Tatiana and Katia Levha (Le Servan, France), Filipino-American Sally Camacho-Mueller (Top Chef: Just Desserts Season 2 runner up) and Filipino-British Josh Boutwood (The Test Kitchen, Philippines) talked about their respective journeys and how they practice sustainability in their respective kitchens.

The Levha sisters talked about cooking from stem to stern and explained their enthusiasm when they learned about Madrid Fusion’s theme this year.

“Sustainability is a major concern for us in the restaurant,” Tatiana, who trained in both L’Arpege and L’Astrance shared.

“We choose what’s seasonal, healthy and sustainably grown.

And that also applies to our wine selection.”

Filipino chefs Gene Gonzalez

Filipino Chef Gene Gonzalez

Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo, Foru de Debati president Jose Carlos Capel, Tourism Promotion Board chief Cesar Montano and Spanish Ambassador Luis Calvo led the opening of Madrid Fusion Manila 2017 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

(Café Ysabel) and Robby Goco (Green Pastures), delivered the opening and closing plenaries, respectively. Gonzalez talked about the evolution of Filipino cuisine and told the audience to watch out for artisanal and Philippine-made chocolates.

The past two years have been an incredible journey for the food industry with the chefs from the different parts of the world coming together, discussing their knowledge about their food and cuisine and sharing best practices that chefs from this part of the world could emulate.

Madrid Fusion is divided into three components: the International Gastronomy Congress, where award-winning chefs shared their views and techniques in cooking; the International Gastronomy Expo, which featured the finest food products and gourmet food, ingredients and technologies from Asia and Spain; and Flavors of the Philippines, a monthlong festival across the country featuring the finest delicacies from every region.

The expo had anchor booths from both the Department of Agriculture and Department of Tourism, featuring various forms of culinary tourism, farm and agritourism models, along with other exhibitors involved in sustainable

farming and fishing in keeping up with this year’s theme.

From fine food to gourmet products and new ingredients, from equipment and services to culinary and farm tourism primemovers, the gastronomy expo is meant to reach out to the trade and tourism buyers and decisionmakers. Destination and lifestyle stands showcased the culinary tourism attractions of the country, along with their respective and iconic food, beverages and ingredients.

There were also “food and beverage tunnels” which became a venue for delectable tasting sessions of wines and spirits, heirloom rice and grains, fresh farm produce, artisanal chocolates, various coffee varieties and other products. Food seminars were also held throughout the three-day affair.

With Madrid Fusion Manila on its third edition, the culinary industry of the Philippines is beginning to expand and grow as it serves to challenge the country’s aspiring chefs to bring out the best in their crafts and how to make Manila the center of culinary excellence in all of Asia.

Madrid Fusion Manila is the first and only Asian edition of Madrid Fusion, the most important international gastronomy congress in the world, organized annually in

2

Regional lunches: Showcasing the diversity of Filipino cuisine FOR a couple of hours, congress attendees and guests take a break to eat a carefully curated themed ad festive lunch showcasing the diversity of Filipino cuisine and the sustainability of the native ingredients.

This is where seasoned Filipino chefs such as Margarita Fores, JP Anglo and Claude Tayag prepare their dishes based on a specific theme. For Day 1, it was Rice, Day 2 was Nose to Tail and Day 3 was Corn.

Day 1, curated by Angelo Comsti, was all about rice. Some chefs focused on heirloom rice, grown and harvested in various provinces in the Philippines, from balatinaw of Mountain Province to the innawi of Banaue. Day 2 highlighted the nose-to-tail concept and was curated by Nina DazaPuyat, Sasha Lim-Uy Mariposa, and Idge Mendiola. The term did not just apply to the pigs and cows, it also applied to other ingredients such as the coconut and cacao. The third day, curated by Alicia Sy, focused on the flexibility of the corn.

Among the unforgettable dishes we had to partake were the following – Mike Tatung Sarthou and his Tausug Junay with Utakutak, which is sticky rice cooked with pamapa (Mindanao spice) and spiced fish nuggets.

Kiddo Cosio of El Union who served Dirty White Horchata made with Tinawon white rice and Bukidnon espresso.

JP Anglo’s Next Generation Adobo, a nose-to-tail adobo made with chicken heart, intestine, gizzard, tail and skin.

Pam Cinco (Risa Chocolate) and her A Toast to Chocolate, a nose-to-tail dish using different parts of cacao, from the white chocolate disc topped with cacao nibs to the cacao dessert wine and the white chocolate truffle with dark chocolate ganache and carabao’s milk butter.

Tina Legarda (Bamba Bistro) who served Tindahan ni Maria Salad of pechay, chorizo-charred corn, kesong puti, tuyopineapple vinaigrette and pork skin crumbs.

Dedet de la Fuente (Pepita’s Kitchen) and her Nilasing na Lechon with corn and guinataan mais mousse.

Margarita Fores and her purple corn ukoy, seared bagaybay with chorizo cream.

Madrid since 2003.

When it was first staged in Manila in 2015, the theme focused around the 300-year gastronomic journey between the Philippines and Spain, and the celebration of the 450th anniversary then of the Manila Galleon that opened up trade routes between Asia, Europe and the Americas.

“There’s a lot of interest in the event now. We have Fil-Ams coming in from the United States and foreigners signing up for the congress. We also have the tourism buyers program and we have tour operators specializing in gastronomy and food tours from different parts of the world here,” Buensuceso added.

The Tourism department is pushing culinary tourism further and they are encouraging these global tour operators to meet with their local travel trade counterparts and develop packages to the Philippines that are centered on food and gastronomy tours.

This year’s theme, according to Buensuceso, aligns well because this is also the International Year of Sustainable Tourism, one of the advocacies of the many chefs in the world and many of the chefs speaking at the congress are pushing for sustainability.

“We are on the right track because we have so far generated a lot of buzz about the Philippines as a food hub and many of the publications in the world are already saying that Filipino cuisine is the next big food trend. We also have enclaves of Filipinos living abroad where Filipino restaurants are now coming out and they’re getting to be very popular so it also creates that awareness and helps build the awareness about the Philippines as a center of food and gastronomy,” Ms. Buensuceso explained.

“I think all these elements are conspiring together to push the Philippines into the limelight,” she added.

Fil-Am pastry chef and Top Chef Just Desserts finalist Sally Camacho Mueller

Filipino-British Chef Josh Boutwood

Le Servan’s take on pork belly adobo

#EATSMOREFUNINTHEPHILIPPINES with more than 1,400 attendees at the recently-concluded Madrid Fusion Manila 2017.

april 28-may 4, 2017

Pig’s Head Skewer with Brown rice Porridge

At the expo, various regional specialties and native Filipino ingredients were on full display.

Half-Filipino/French Levha Sisters of Le Servan in Paris

Sampinit Tres Leches Cake

Pepita’s Lechon showcased their specialties: stuffed lechon

Kilawin Kambing Terrine

Kare Kare

Kinunot

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

How Maja Salvador got her ‘revenge body’

by Deni rose BernarDo Philstar.com

In aBS-CBn’s summer station ID, of the many sexy stars featured, one summer body stands out. actress Maja Salvador has always been a #fitspiration for many. In her current soap opera, “Wildflower,” she plays Ivy, a woman who will do everything to avenge her father’s death brought about by a powerful political clan.

Maja admitted in an interview with Philstar.com that being sexy is important for her role as there are scenes that call for her to use her charm and sex appeal to get the vengeance she wants. She bared, however, that staying in shape and looking after her health have also been a struggle since she has to do tapings for the show three times a week, while her weekends are allotted for the Sunday noontime variety show “aSaP.” Since dancing in “aSaP” is her only means to workout, how does she manage to still look good?

“Control sa pagkain talaga.

I’m not following any diet plans.

Kumakain ako pero nagkokontrol ko. Kasi kung mag-iiwas ka ng pagkain, baka mawalan ka ng happiness!” quipped the actress, who loves shrimps and squash.

She confessed that she eats junk food when she is too tired to eat.

She is sad that this summer, she has no chance of going on a vacation.

Maja Salvador

“I only have two days off in a week, so I’m already burned out, so kapag may staycation or travel opportunities, I grab them kahit overnight lang,” she shared.

“Wildflower” is not more on “pa-sexy,” she clarified.

“May part n’ung soap na gagamitin mo ‘yung pagkababae mo, pero ‘di lang ‘yun ‘yung ‘Wildflower.’ Boys lang ‘yung nagpapa-sexy!”

What sets Ivy apart from the roles she held before?

“Siguro ‘yung bigat na dinadala ng character, ‘yung pain and anger. Ang dami n’yang emosyon, ang dami n’yang dala e. ‘Yun ang pinakapagkakaiba sa iba.”

If she is very different from

Ivy, where does she get the anger needed to portray the character?

“Wala namang pinaghuhugutan, iba lang talaga ako mag-embrace ng character…Since the character is very different from the real me, honestly, it takes time before I can be Ivy every time we shoot.”

Though Ivy and her are poles apart, she has learned a lot from the character. “’Wag ka magkikimkim kasi at the end of the day, ikaw ‘yung hindi makakatulog. Lagi mong piliin na magkaroon ng peace of mind,” Maja said.

Like Ivy who has three hot men drooling over her, does Maja also have something like that in real life?

“Wala! Busy sa work!” she said, stressing that rumors of her seeing someone outside showbiz are not true.

Playing Ivy is more of a “workout” for her since she and Ivy are very different. “revenge, ang powerful n’un, ang bigat n’un sa pagkatao. ‘Di ko pa ‘yun na-feel ‘yun ever. Hindi kasi ako nagkikimkim ng galit eh. Ang dali kong magpatawad. Ang dali kong kalimutan ‘yung mga taong sinaktan ako. Ba’t mo pa pipiliin na mag-dwell d’un sa sakit na idinulot ng mga taong ‘yun? Move on at ‘wag mo na silang gawing parte ng buhay mo. always choose to be happy!”

Philstar.com

She can act, sing and dance, but apparently for Sarah Geronimo, these are not enough for her to fit the boots of Filipino superhero Darna.

In a recent press interview during her launch as a health care brand’s endorser, Sarah divulged that she does not think she has what it takes to take on Mars ravelo’s iconic book-to-film character.

“Wala, hindi!” Sarah said when asked if she is now ready to swallow the stone and shout “Darna!”

“Call ‘yun ng management, kung sino sa tingin nila na pinakabagay sa role. Pero ako ilang beses ko na rin sinabi na hindi po

para sa’kin ‘yun,” the singer-actress reiterated.

The coach of singing search “The voice Teens,” however, is willing to lend her voice to whoever will bag the much-talked about role. ever since angel Locsin formally announced she will not be able to reprise the character she played in a Tv series with GMa due to a spine injury, netizens have been picking candidates for probable replacements. These include Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, nadine Lustre, Liza Soberano and Jessy Mendiola. according to the results of Philstar.com’s recent survey, netizens want nadine Lustre to wear the iconic red-and-gold costume.

3

‘Nothing’s changed’ with Stockinger-Wurtzbach relationship

by Kristian Javier Philstar.com

Marlon Stockinger and PIa Wurtzbach

Car racer Marlon Stockinger said that his relationship with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach has not changed.

Stockinger posted a picture of him with Wurtzbach on Instagram with the caption, “nothing’s changed.”

This is despite the rumors that Stockinger fathered twins with model Kit Barraquias.

Last year, reports of Barraquias admitting that the racer is the “biological father” of her seven-year old twins surfaced.

She said, however, that she did not intend to reunite with Stockinger nor ask for financial support and only wanted to protect her children.

Wurtzbach, meanwhile, said that she did not know of the rumor.

how ai ai Delas alas found her peace

by Lhar santiago ManilaTimes.net

Whenever ai ai Delas alas looks back at her past, she can’t help but feel so blessed. She has indeed been through a lot—failed relationships, family problems, career woes. Life has not been a walk in the park for the Comedy Queen and there were many times when she would struggle to survive.

But ai ai, despite being scarred, has managed to emerge triumphant from all her battles with her faith in God always her anchor.

“God has been so faithful to me. I depend only on him. There was a time in my life when I kept on clinging to relationships with men pero hindi mo pwedeng asahan yun, I realized. ang tao nagbabago but God never changes. his love is constant. I feel I am mighty because the one I trust is mightier, the Lord,” said ai ai very seriously and with sincerity.

“More peaceful” is how ai ai describes her life right now. She is so happy in the company of boyfriend Gerald Sibayan who is Pop star and “The Voice Teens” coach Sarah younger than her but that doesn’t Geronimo doesn’t think she qualifies for bother her.

Darna.

“Gugustuhin ko na ang mas But just like Darna who bata pero talagang mahal ako never gives up, Sarah’s fans, the at hindi nagbibigay ng problema Popsters, will not surrender the than one who is the same age as I fight.

Sarah Geronimo on being Darna: Not for me

by Deni rose BernarDo

april 28-may 4, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

am pero talo pa ang bata sa ugali.

Saka si Gerald, hindi ‘yan materioso.

Basta, sobrang magkasundo kami.

We take care of each other,” ai ai volunteered. even if they are already engaged, ai ai insists it’s not always marriage that they talk about when they are together. They feel that their target date for their wedding in 2018 is still so far and choose to attend to more pressing matters in their life first.

“Ang dami pang dapat unahin like transferring to our new house in Quezon City. We’ve started transferring some of our things already. I think we will be able to move in completely by June. Dami kasi naming gamit,” ai ai reasoned.

Of course, ai ai is thankful that many friends have volunteered to help her and Gerald in planning their wedding. She confirmed they have at least five friends who have pledged to take care of certain details of the wedding. One of them is ai-ai’s close friend whom she calls her kambal or twin sister, Marian rivera who promised ai ai she will be in charge of the wedding gown and the bride’s bouquet.

Turning serious again, ai ai said she is grateful for everyone’s help because she would rather prepare for the actual marriage than their

Ai Ai Delas Alas

wedding day.

“The wedding is just a one day affair but marriage is a lifetime,” she averred. “Fabulous nga ang wedding mo, wala namang direksiyon ang marriage n’yong mag-asawa. I don’t mean that I don’t like yung bonggang wedding.

Of course, I want my wedding to be very memorable but it’s better if we also have a beautiful marriage because we really prepared for it.”

april 28-may 4, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

EMPLOYMENT

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Sexually transmitted diseases

second being cancer of the ovary.

The most common gynecologic malignancy is endometrial (inner wall of womb) cancer, which is the fourth most common cancer in women. The first being cancer of the breasts, followed by colorectal PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS cancer and lung cancer. Cervical cancer develops in women at the IT is quite alarming that 45 to mean age of 50 years old, although 50 percent of men and women in it can occur in women as young the United States have an HPV— as 20. In the Philippines it is the genital Human Papillomavirus number 2 most common form (HPV)—infection. This information of cancer among women. In the was recently reported by the Center United States it accounts for least for Disease Control’s National 3000 deaths, and globally, about Center for Health. It is, indeed, the 300,000, annually. most common sexually transmitted How prevalent is cervical disease in the country. Here are cancer? the details, which are conservative More than 20 million of statistics since this does not Americans have HPV infection. In include institutionalized higher risk the Philippines, there are about individuals, like prisoners, addicts, 5000 new cases of cervical cancer and the homeless: each year. By age 50, about 80 “Using data from the National percent of American women Health and Nutrition Examination will have acquired genital HPV. Survey (NHANES) from 2011 However, more alarming than that to 2014, researchers found the is the fact that there are between following: 10,000 to 25,000 women walking • Oral HPV prevalence was 7 around (not seen by physician) percent for adults under age 70. who have undiagnosed preThe prevalence of high-risk oral invasive lesions in their cervix. If HPV was just 4 percent. diagnosed early, these women • For adults under age 60, the could be saved. For every four prevalence of genital HPV was 43 survivors of breasts cancer, there percent in 2013 to 2014. It reached are less than 3 women who survive 64 percent among black adults. cervical cancer, which shows how Non-Hispanic Asian adults had the virulent cervical cancer is. lowest prevalence at 24 percent.

What causes cervical cancer?

Roughly 23 percent of adults Human Papilloma Virus (HPV, had high-risk genital HPV, with the also known as genital herpes highest prevalence among black virus) accounts for most, if not all, males (40 percent). cervical cancers. At least 50% of HPV and cancer sexually active men and women There are more than 108 are infected with genital HPV, different types of genital HPV, especially those with multiple more than 30 of these are sexually partners. There are about 20 transmitted, causing infection million American men and involving the skin of the penis, women infected with HPV, many vagina (vulva), cervix, and even the linked with abnormal pap tests, anus and rectum. genital warts and cervical cancer.

US government statistics It is estimated more than 10,000 show that 25 percent of men and new cases of cervical cancers are 20 percent of women have the discovered annually. Between half strain of human papilloma virus a million to a million Americans or human wart (virus) that causes have genital warts, transmitted cancer. To protect individuals who thru sexual contacts. The so-called are 25 and younger from acquiring high risk HPV may cause positive this HPV-related cancer, the vaccine Pap test, and it could cause cancer listed below is available today. of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, Cervical cancer anus or rectum. The low-risk , Cervical cancer is malignant milder form, causes single or tumor of the cervix (mouth of the multiple bumps of genital warts womb). It is the second most cancer (kulugo) and could be cauliflower in women and the third most shaped. common gynecologic cancer, the Is the cure for cervical

Health@Heart

cancer?

Better than the cure! A vaccine that prevents cervical cancer has been in use since it was introduced in June 2006 and found to be “effective 100%, in the short term, at blocking the cancer and lesions likely to turn to cancer” (like the pre-invasive lesions), according to drug manufacturer, Merck & Co. The vaccines, which are genetically engineered, Gardasil and Cervarix, which block infection caused by two of the more than 108 types of human papilloma virus (HPV), strains 16 and 18.

These two sexually transmitted viruses are responsible for about 70 percent of cervical cancers. HPV, in one form or the other. The other strains of the virus cause painful genital warts, and sometimes, cervical cancers too. The newer versions of these vaccines are effective for more strains of HPV. How early should the vaccine be given?

Students in grammar school, middle school and high school should be vaccinated before they become sexually active, because once they catch HPV infection, there is no cure; herpes is for life.

This was the recommendation of Dr. Gloria Bachmann, director of The Women’s Health Institute at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in Brunswick, NJ., who said this vaccine is a “phenomenal breakthrough. This is, today, the standard of care.

Can oral sex cause cancer?

The most common cause (70 percent) of throat cancer is oral sex with a partner who has active HPV infection. About 4 percent of adults who practice oral sex will have oral infection with a highrisk form of cancer-causing HPV. Experts say head and neck cancer will surpass cervical cancer as the most common cause of HPVrelated cancer by 2020. Without being flippant, the use of seran wrap or plastic film to cover the female pelvis (similar to the use of condom for males), if oral sex is to be practiced at all, could be of some protection against HPV contamination. However, the CDC review of 138 peer-reviewed scientific studies showed that the use of condom is not effective in reducing the risk of STDs. Out of 100 women who used Continued on Page 6

april 28-may 4, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

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Mindfulness as a survival skill in today’s tech crazy world

Monette aDeva Maglaya

“Be present. It is the only thing that matters.”

- Ways of the Peaceful Warrior

I NEARLY had a vehicular accident quite recently. Operative word: Nearly.

I was minding my business at a traffic stop when the vehicle before me decided to back up because her car was caught in the crosswalk. I then noticed that her white back lights indicating that she had left her car in reverse gear was on.

Instinctively I knew it was an accident waiting to happen. I was ready with just my senses, reflexes and an annoying horn to blast the danger away. But full disclosure and credit go to my Guardian Angels for the countless times of full protection. It is like being in tune with God’s cosmic script and being on the same page, all the time.

When the lights turned green, true enough, she stepped on the gas and was doing a fast reverse headed to the front of my car. I pounded on my horn and let out the screechiest, loudest, longest honk, enough to scare the daylights out of her. And NO 3-fingered salute. It’s not something I want to give or receive in tenuous situations.

Besides, my mother and the nuns who taught me will be aghast.

She braked about a hairline away from my car grille — and then froze. She didn’t know what to do and held up the lane longer. I had to hand signal her to go. The cars behind us were blasting away with their horns at being kept waiting, unaware that a chain collision that could involve them, has just been averted.

Whew! That was a close call.

Imagine the hours that would have been lost never to return again if a crash did occur and you are left to tussle with insurance matters.

I don’t know whether she was a young, new driver, on the phone or just preoccupied with something.

But when you are behind the wheel, it requires all of the neurons in your brains and all your senses to be engaged in just that one activity.

Without it, you can do damage not only to yourself but sadly, to others as well, within your immediate physical orbit. I kept 3 car lengths as following distance until she turned left onto another street.

These are, indeed, the best of times. These are the worst of times as well. Charles Dickens could have said these words just as fittingly to apply to this crazy world we live in today.

I would like to plead the case for mindfulness for everyone at all times and in all places.

Do you feel incomplete, naked, inept and insecure when you are not tethered electronically to your cellphone or your computer? Do you feel less of a person? Take heart.

You are not alone.

The advances in communication technology have created a world where we can send and receive information at breakneck speed. The thoughts, the images of anyone, from kings to paupers, from the most profound to the most profane, from the wisest to the most foolish, from the most beautiful to the most horrific, once formed, can be transmitted to billions of people around the electronically wired community.

Just like the common cold, thoughts and images “go viral…”

The power of a message is now measured by the number of tweets, hits and views it gets. Many are choosing to live in virtual reality rather than in the real world believing they can safely hide behind a cloak of anonymity.

Disabuse yourself of the idea.

No one remains anonymous for long. No one in the internet is sacrosanct. Everyone is fair game.

These thoughts and images go around fast just like the weather patterns that change and swirl around the globe. And just like the weather, our cultural world is being shaped by our collective thoughts within the structure and framework

Calendar of Events across

of the technologically wired environment we live in today.

Do we then damn technology because of the potent power it helps wield over us? Certainly NOT! It would be a big mistake to blame technology for our present woes. Just like fire and electricity and practically all of man’s tools and inventions through the ages, technology is a double-edged sword. It can enhance human life or it can destroy just as well.

The fault, dear tech user, is not in our stars but in OURSELVES. It is how we define our relationship to technology and use it in our daily lives.

We can be the boss of it. Or if we lose control, we can let ourselves be obsessed by technology and all its bells and whistles. It can wreak havoc on our souls, our persona and ultimately our lives if we use it as a tool to enable a hubristic tendency among many people today who think the world revolves around them and who then count their worthiness with the number of likes they get from their posts.

How do we know if technology has us wrapped around its little keypads? It is easy enough to selfdiagnose this condition.

Observe if you cross streets and railroad tracks with your phones tethered to your ears. Note if you like taking selfies even in dangerous places. See if you become unhinged because you forgot or lost your phone. If so, break the habit. If not, you as a specie will disappear just like the dodo bird who has become so stupid that it has foolishly lost its instinct to danger.

When we are no longer mindful of our present conditions and depend on technology overly much to do the thinking for us, then we are truly in deep doodoo.

People have become so preoccupied and distracted by the mind boggling possibilities Continued on Page 6

America

A P R I L 27- M AY 4

33rd Annual Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival The 33rd Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival (LAAPFF) will be presented April 27 to – May 4 at select cinemas in the Los Angeles area. A key highlight of the annual Asian Pacific American Heritage Month activities, the Festival is produced by Visual Communications, the nation’s premier Asian Pacific American media arts center, and enjoys broad support from cinema artists and audiences alike. This year, LAAPFF features over 180 films from both Asian Pacific American and Asian international artists. For over three decades, the festival has presented close to 4,000 films by Asian Pacific American and Asian international talent. A record 45 feature films and 139 shorts from over 750 submissions will be showcased throughout the eightday fest. For more information on films and venues, please visit: http://festival.vconline.org/.

A P R I L 29

12th annual Sikad ng Bayan bike ride in Anaheim Hills, CA The Sikad ng Bayan (Cycling for the Nation) is an annual bike ride that raises funds to build preschools for less fortunate communities at Gawad Kalinga (GK) villages in the Philippines. It is a non-competitive ride that will be held on Saturday, April 29, where cyclists traverse the Orange and Los Angeles counties. And in true Filipino fashion, this fun ride culminates in a Pinoy-style luncheon where cyclists can get together and know more about Sikad. It will be held at the Yorba Regional Park (7600 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92807). For more information or to register please visit www.sikad.org or call Rey D. at (562) 964-1445 or Robbie V. at (949) 351-8344.

APRIL 30

Filipino Cultural School to host “Sari-Sari Talent Show 2017” in Cerritos, CA Filipino Cultural School (FCS) will host its 2nd annual Sari Sari: Talent Show Fundraiser on Sunday, April 30 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Josephine’s Cerritos (11305 183rd St, Cerritos, CA 90703). Filipino Cultural School, based in Cerritos, CA and other neighboring cities, is a 501(c)(3) Non Profit Organization geared to the preservation and promotion of the Philippine heritage and culture. FCS has and continues to be open to all. Filipinos and non-Filipinos who are interested in Philippine culture are invited to attend. “Sari-Sari” is a Tagalog word for “variety,” and in this talent show, FCS aims to celebrate the diverse talents of our community members in forms of singing, dancing, spoken words, etc., along with some great Filipino food from the restaurant. Pre-sale tickets are $10 for ages 13 years old and above, and $5 for ages 12 years old and under. Door prices will be $15 for ages 13 years old and above, and still $5 for ages 12 years old and under (ticket prices do not include food). The raised funds for the event will go towards helping cover for the cost of venue, insurance, and materials for the FCS Summer Program. For information on how to purchase a ticket and also sign-up to perform in the show, please visit the website http://filipinoculturalschool.org. For any inquiries, feel free to contact FCS at filipinoculturalschool@gmail.com.

M AY 4

Philippine Consulate Outreach Mission in Carson, CA The Philippine American Bar Association (PABA) will hold its 31st Annual Installation and Awards Gala on Thursday, May 4, 2017 in downtown Los Angeles. PABA is the largest local organization of Filipino-American attorneys in the United States. Formed three decades ago, PABA serves the needs of Fil-Am lawyers and law students in Southern California. The Gala is a celebration of the Fil-Am legal community, as well as PABA’s largest fundraiser of the year. The proceeds are used to carry out the group’s mission: strengthening the legal community through mentoring programs, networking events, scholarships for students, and continuing education. The keynote speaker for this year’s Gala is California State Treasurer John Chiang. Jose (Joe) Lauchengco, Jr., will be recognized as the 2017 Trailblazer, and The Honorable Bernie LaForteza, Los Angeles Superior Court, will be the recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Jurist Award.

The Gala will be held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, 506 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90071. Registration along with a A No-Host Cocktail Reception will begin at 6:00 p.m. and the Dinner & Program will commence at 7:00 p.m. Additional ticketing and sponsorship information are provided below. If you would like to purchase individual tickets, advertisements, tables or become an event sponsor, you can also pay online by clicking here: https://www.z2systems.com/np/clients/paba/giftstore.jsp

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

april 28-may 4, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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Inter Valley Health Plan hosts 5th Annual Women’s Changing Aging Roles event on June 10 Southern Calif. women 50+ encouraged to let their passions soar at inspiring conference: “Time Flies, Catch It”

POMONA – Inter Valley health Plan (www.IVhP.com), a Pomonabased not-for-profit Medicare Advantage health Plan is hosting its 5th Annual Women’s Changing, Aging Roles event: Time Flies, Catch It June 10 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m in La Verne, Calif.

Committed to enhancing the mind, body and spirit of older adults in Southern Calif., the nonprofit health plan is once again putting on this complimentary LPGA Tour players with other invited golfers, guests, officials and sponsors take time to pose at Journey’s golf course at Pechanga. conference to inspire women Photo by Mark Xavier Bautista aged 50+ to let their passions soar and live in the moment.

“This event is very meaningful to us,” says Marion Schmid, Communications Manager, Inter Valley health Plan. “This event continues to get stronger every guests. Rated as one of the top competitive in the global digital The Kore Pro-Am 2017 year, with women from all over 20 public courses in the state hospitality market. teed off Monday, April 3, Southern Calif. coming out to

by GolfWeek, the Arthur hillsThis year’s LPGA roster on the course at Journey at experience the education and designed layout snakes across included included the Korean Pechanga Resort & Casino in activities that fuel inspiration in a the dry ravine of the Pechanga superstars of ladies golf Temecula. Now on its 11th variety of ways. Our goal with this River, over rustic wooden bridges including Jenny Shin , Xi Yu year, 25 LPGA pros — including event is not just to inspire women and takes advantage of the aweLin, Mi hyang Lee, Chella Choi, top-ranking players — teamed but allow them to learn from one inspiring terrain that rises and Vicky hurst, Jing Yan, Kelly Shon, up with community amateurs another and see this chapter in falls throughout the round.

Julie Yang, Tiffany Joh, Kelly Tan, in the scramble-format golf their lives as an opportunity to do About Pechanga Resort & Jennifer ha, Ayako Uehara, hee tournament to vie for the No. 1 what they’ve always wanted.”

Casino Young Park, Christine Song, Min spot.

The event will be held at Pechanga Resort & Casino Lee, Megan Khang, Simin Feng, “Pechanga Resort & Casino hillcrest Retirement Community offers one of the largest and Rebecca Lee Bentham, Mindy is very honored to be the host in La Verne and attendees can most expansive resort/casino Kim, emily Tubert, Sarah Jane sponsor [of this event], said experiences anywhere in Smith, Fil-Am Demi Runas, Annie Interim General Manager and the United States. Voted the Park, Lee Lopez and hanule Sky Chief Marketing Officer Lee Number One Casino in America Seo. This elite group of 25 pro Torres. “This is our fifth year and by readers of USA TODAY and golfers partnered with four other each and every year has been rated a Four Diamond property players per team to challenge better than the one before.”

by AAA since 2002, Pechanga each other and enjoy the natural Torres also invited the guests Resort & Casino provides an surroundings of Journey at to come back when Pechanga’s unparalleled getaway. Offering Pechanga. $285-million expansion gets more than 3,400 of the hottest This year’s sponsors, in done by the end of this year. slots, table games, world-class addition to Axalta Dura Coat Pechanga’s $285-million entertainment, 517 hotel rooms, resort expansion broke ground in Products and Pechanga Resort dining, spa and championship & Casino, included first-time December 2015. Pechanga will golf at Journey at Pechanga, participant BMW, Private Internet add a new hotel wing with an Pechanga Resort & Casino Access, 011 Communications, additional 568 rooms and suites. features a destination that AmWest, APW, Asiana Airlines, Guests will be able to enjoy a meets and exceeds the needs of Calywire, CJ e&M, Colosseum new 2-story luxury spa, 70,000 its guests and the community.

Athletics, Ten Advertising and sq. ft. of additional ballroom Pechanga Resort & Casino is product sponsors Bescon USA, and meeting space, an outdoor activity area and resort-style pool Bioderma, Decky, Johnnie Walker, owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño complex, as well as two new food Thunder Par App and Sapporo.

Indians. For more information, About Journey at Pechanga and beverage outlets. call toll free 1-888-PeChANGA or Journey at Pechanga is a Last month, Pechanga visit www.Pechanga.com.

7,219-yard, par-72 golf course also unveiled a new logo and open to the public and Pechanga brand design to make it more (Advertising Supplement)

Journey at Pechanga Resort & Casino hosts 11th Annual Kore Pro-Am 2017

enjoy refreshments, stimulating discussions by notable speakers, participate in interactive activities, and receive prizes. Women are encouraged to bring their daughters, sisters, and friends to enjoy activities such as the selfie booth and creation of a vision bucket.

Speakers and topics include: · Regina Lark, PhD: Author of The Relationship between the Stuff in Your head & What’s Under Your Bed · Kelly Niles-Yokum, MPA, PhD: experiences Are the New Things · Kathy Duncan, RN edD: Time Is Precious, Waste it Wisely event Details: 5th Annual Women’s Changing, Aging Roles event: Time Flies, Catch It · Date and time: June 10, 2017 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. · Address: The Meeting house, 2705 Mountain View Drive, La Verne, CA · Cost: FRee · RSVP Required: www. forhealthandliving.com/ ivhpevents Co-sponsors include Pomona Valley hospital Medical Center, VNA hospice and Palliative Care of Southern California, Community

Senior Services, hillcrest: A Remarkable Retirement Community, University of LaVerne and City of Montclair.

Inter Valley Health Plan Inter Valley health Plan is a not-for-profit, federally qualified, hMO contracted with Medicare and dedicated to providing the best value in senior health care coverage. headquartered in Pomona, Calif., Inter Valley health Plan strives to improve the quality of life for seniors throughout its service area and is one of the oldest managed health care plans in Southern California with more than 35 years in business. entrusted by 25,000 individuals stretching from Los Angeles to Orange County to Palm Springs, Riverside, hemet, Victorville, Temecula, and virtually every city and town in between, Inter Valley health Plan is dedicated to keeping its members healthy and strong, while maintaining non-profit and real service values.

For more information, please visit www.IVhP.com or call Inter Valley health Plan at 1-800-5007018. Also, please follow us on Facebook at www.Facebook. com/InterValley.

NOW OPeN. iSmile Dental Group is now officially open and ready to bring smiles to Orange County. Come and see them for all your dental needs. “People are our passion, smiles are our specialty! Give them a call today at (714) 602-6327.

Sexually transmitted diseases From Page 5

condom religiously, 37 of them still developed hPV. At least 1 percent of condoms are defective.

Syphilis higher among homosexuals While society regards syphilis as an STD of the past, it is actually still very much with us, domestically and globally. Rarer than it was a century ago, syphilis remains a much dreaded disease.

Men who have sex with men have much higher rates of syphilis infection, according to a study. The rate is 106 times more than the rate of syphilis among heterosexual

men, and 167 times higher than the rate of infection among women. homosexuals had a rate of 309 cases per 100,000 population for a primary and secondary syphilis, compared to 2.9 and 1.8 cases per 100,000 for heterosexual men and women, respectively. The region with the highest rates are located in the Southern region, with a rate of 748 per 100,000 in North Carolina.

This may sound like over simplification and quite obvious, but the best way, the surest way, to prevent getting any sexually

transmitted diseases is not to have sexual contact with someone infected, or possibly infected, with hPV/hIV/Syphilis/Gonorrhea.. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. Email: scalpelpen@ gmail.com

Mindfulness as a survival skill in today’s...

From Page 5

presented by multitasking that is engendered by a tech-enhanced way of life, that they tend to forget what is important and what truly matters. how badly can it get? There are horror stories of mindless idiocy. Countless car accidents borne of texting while driving, are a testament to the tragic loss of mindfulness and by extension, common sense, among us earthlings.

Witness the number of news items about overly busy working parents, juggling balls of parenthood and a career and who forget that they have babies strapped in car seats in the back of their cars leaving them to die

in the heat of the sun. It is a sad commentary that while we have all the technological aids at our disposal to make our lives better, we fail to use them appropriately. how do we detox? Try going tech free at designated times or for long stretches of time without having to check your phone or your computer for messages that you feel compelled to respond to ASAP. As I have said in another article championing the cause of living mindfully in the moment, “Log off and enjoy your hot chocolate.”

Unless your work involves saving lives, taking a vacation from technology may prove to offer a higher quality of life. eventually, as we learn to synch and balance our lives with our tech tool, it will be

an obedient dog serving us as its master.

Think of the perks. We get to appreciate the present moment and appreciate and deeply love the people we are with right then and there. We get to “Carpe Diem” and experience JOY in real time. We get to open our eyes and our hearts to the beauty and infinite majesty of just breathing and knowing LIFe IS GOOD – so good you can feel it in your bones.

Best of all, we get to reserve the eminent right to remain eSSeNTIALLY hUMAN. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

april 28-may 4, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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april 28-may 4, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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