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w w w. a s i a n Volume 24 - No. 21 • 2 Sections - 16 Pages

.com T h e F i l i p i n o –A m e r i c A n c o m m u n i T y n e w s pA p e r

juNe 2-8, 2017 Also published in LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEw YORk/NEw JERSEY

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Police eyes robbery behind DATELINE USA Fil-Am nabs Hawaii Resorts World Manila attack

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

GOP chairmanship

by dana

SioSon AJPress

ately put on lockdown, and gunshots were heard in the background footA mAsKeD gunman stormed into age of local media and locals who CoNtINUINg the effort to honor filipinos’ resorts World manila in Pasay, Philip- were within the vicinity of the resort.

As of press time, no one was reportefforts during World War II, members of Con- pines on friday midnight, June 2, with gress have introduced new legislation to ex- dozens reportedly injured while trying edly shot or taken as a hostage by the perpetrator. Authorities said majority pand immigration for families of filipino vet- to flee from the area. erans. resorts World manila was immedi- of the injured were hurt due to stamthe filipino Veterans family reunification Act — introduced by senator mazie hirono (Dhawaii) and representative Colleen hanabusa (D-hawaii) — sets out to speed up the visa process for children of filipino WWII veterans. similar to the filipino WWII Veterans Parole program, this bill seeks to bring family members of these veterans to the U.s. after decades of separation. But rather than just provide temporarily relief as the parole program does, the filipino Veterans family reunification Act “codifies our nation’s promise to reunite these families,” said hirono.

“When called to serve, filipino World War II veterans fought and sacrificed alongside American servicemen,” said hirono, who also led the effort to reward these veterans the Congressional gold medal last year. “however, as a result of our country’s antiquated immigration system, these brave soldiers have been waiting more than a half cen-

pede while trying to escape the area in panic, while more serious injuries were caused by jumping off from higher floors. the police said they are looking at robbery as the possible motive behind the attack, citing that there were no PAGE A2 PNP Chief Ronald dela Rosa

House, Senate pass resolution supporting Mindanao martial law by dana

SioSon AJPress

PAGE A3

Duterte hits back at Chelsea Clinton: Did you slam your father’s affair?

PH NAVY ANNIVERSARY. President Rodrigo Duterte poses for a photo with (from left) Philippine Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina, Armed Forces Chief of Staff of Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Philippine Navy Commander Vice Admiral Ronald Mercado, Philippine Army Chief Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda and Eastern Mindanao Command Chief Lt. Rey Guerrero outside the Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Davao del Sur following its commissioning during the 119th Anniversary of the Philippine Navy at the Sasa Wharf in Davao City on Wednesday, May 31.

Malacañang photo

PhILIPPINe President rodrigo Duterte hit back hard at former United states’ first daughter Chelsea Clinton over her criticisms against his recent rape remark.

In a speech during the Philippine Navy’s anniversary on Wednesday, may 31, Duterte made reference to former U.s. President Bill Clinton, Chelsea’s father, who had an affair with monica Lewinsky, a White house intern, in 1998.

“I will tell her (Chelsea), when your father, the president of the United states then, was screwing Lewinsky and the girls there in the White house, how did you feel? Did you slam your father?”

Duterte quizzed.

“I repeat. When President Clinton was f*cking Lewinsky, what was your statement or your reaction?” the Philippine president asked again. earlier, Chelsea criticized Duterte in her social media account when he said that he would take responsibility for crimes committed by soldiers, even rape, during the recently imposed martial law in mindanao.

“Not funny,” Chelsea commented on twitter. responding to another user, Chelsea went on Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo AJPress photo by Noel Ty PAGE A2

exPressINg its “full support,” both the house of representatives and the senate said it found “no reason” to revoke Philippine President rodrigo’s recent implementation of martial law and suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in mindanao. on Wednesday, may 31, the house adopted resolution No. 1050, which supports the Philippine president’s move. “resolved by the house of representatives, to express its full support to President rodrigo Duterte as it finds no reason to revoke Proclamation Number 216, entitled ‘Declaring a state of martial Law and suspending the Privilege of the Writ of habeas Corpus in the whole of mindanao” the house resolution read. the house also said it has “determined the sufficiency of the factual basis for the issuance of Proclamation Number 216.”

PAGE A2

Tourism chief: Nickelodeon park in Coron to push through DOT confident in resiliency of PH tourism by dana

SioSon AJPress

DesPIte heavy opposition from environmental advocates and concerned citizens, the planned construction of Nickelodeon theme park in Coron, Palawan will still push through, according to Philippine tourism secretary Wanda teo. teo made the confirmation in a television interview on thursday, June 1, almost six months after the project was announced.

“Yes, they’re pushing through,” teo told CNN Philippines.

Last January, Nickelodeon’s parent company Viacom, in partnership with Coral World Park Undersea resorts Inc., announced its plan to develop a 400-hectare theme park in Coron. the report about the planned construction has alarmed the conservation community over possible Freddie Roach at ringside during Manny Pacquiao’s sparring session Thursday, June 1.

Inquirer.net photo by Tristan Tamayo damage to the marine ecosytem. teo, however, allayed concerns,

Roach unbothered Duterte: Security officials by Pacquiao’s sluggish consulted before martial starts in sparring PAGE A4

law in Mindanao by audrey

MoraLLo

Philstar.com

President Rodrigo Duterte views a presentation by Gen. Eduardo Año, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff, on developments on the terror crisis in Marawi City during a meeting in Davao City on Monday, May 29. With them is Special Assistant to the President Bong Go. Malacañang photo

mANILA — President rodrigo Duterte on thursday, June 1 clarified that he consulted the military before he placed mindanao under military rule as he called critics saying otherwise “stupid and fools.” speaking after the oath-taking of newly-appointed government officials at malacañang, the president also raised the possibil-

ity that martial law in mindanao would be stretched to more than 60 days if the situation is still unstable at the end of the period that the 1987 Constitution allows martial law. to extend martial law, Duterte will need to ask Congress to allow an extension. Congress, which is led by an administration supermajority, opted not to hold a joint session to discuss the declaration of martial law on PAGE A2

by Bong Lozada Inquirer.net

fAmeD boxing trainer freddie roach doesn’t mind seeing his prized pupil manny Pacquiao go on slow starts during his sparring sessions in preparation for the Jeff horn bout come July 2.

Pacquiao (59-6-2) is preparing to defend his WBo World welterweight championship against the undefeated horn (16-0-1) in Australia, and has so far breezed through his sparring partners despite the sluggish beginnings.

“Whenever he wanted to turn it on, he did,” said roach thursday, June 1 during Pacquiao’s training session at elorde gym in the mall of Asia Complex.

Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division World PAGE A4

A

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From the Front Page

Duterte hits back at Chelsea Clinton: Did you slam...

PAGE A1 to say, “Duterte is a murderous thug with no regard for human rights. It’s important to keep pointing that out & that rape is never a joke.”

But Duterte said he was “not joking” in his remarks.

“She slammed me for the rape joke. I was not joking. I was being sarcastic, you listen to the speech,” Duterte stressed.

Rallying the government troopers, Duterte said last week that he would shoulder alone all the consequences for their actions during his recently imposed martial law in Mindanao.

The Philippine president declared the imposition of military rule in the area amid clashes between the military and Islamic State-Maute Group in Marawi City on Tuesday, May 23.

Chelsea Clinton

“Sasamahan ko kayo (I’ll be with you all the way). If you go down, I go down. But for this martial law and the consequences of martial law, and the ramifications of martial law, I and I alone would be responsible. Trabaho lang [kayo]. Ako na bahala (Just do your job. I have your back),” he told the military.

“Ako na magpakulong sa inyo.

‘Pag naka-rape ka ng 3, aminin ko na akin ‘yun (I’ll take your place in prison. If you rape 3, I’ll take the blame),” Duterte added.

But amid criticisms, Malacañang downplayed the issue.

In defense, Malacañang claimed that the president is just expressing his full support to the military while “taking complete responsibility for their actions, even exaggeratedly describing crimes like taking a fourth wife.”

“As Commander-in-Chief he would stand by his personnel and that no one will be abandoned, including the fallen,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

Abella added that Duterte “is decisively acting, speaking with heightened bravado, that law and order would be brought back in these areas of rebellion in the soonest time possible and that normalcy would likewise be restored with minimal loss of lives.”

This, however, Duterte figured a “rape joke” controversy.

In April last year, Duterte mentioned the rape of an Australian missionary in 1989 when he was the Davao City mayor, gaining criticisms after commenting that “the mayor should have been first.”

Resorts World Manila on Friday, June 2 said it was working closely with authorities to ensure the safety of its guests and employees after unidentified gunmen stormed the resorts complex.

Inquirer.net photo by Rem Zamora

Police eyes robbery behind...

PAGE A1 casualties or incidents of hostage taking.

Philippine National Police (PNP) General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said there was no indication that the attack was related to terrorism.

According to dela Rosa, the lone gunman stole gambling chips, shot and LED monitor, and set gambling tables on fire but “did not hurt anyone,” leading the police rule out terrorism.

The police chief also confirmed that the gunman was killed and a foreigner, supposedly Caucasian, about six feet tall.

Shortly after the incident, the

United States Embassy in Manila cautioned its citizens.

“Exercise caution and review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.

Heed any instructions given by local authorities,” the Embassy’s message read.

U.S. President Donald Trump, meanwhile said the their government is “closely monitoring the situation,” expressing sympathies to the victims of the attack.

“We’re closely monitoring the situation ... but it is really very sad as to what’s going on in the world with terror,” Trump said in a White

House ceremony.

“Our thoughts and our prayers are with all of those affected,” the U.S. president added.

While the local police said the attack is likely not a work of terrorism, U.S. terrorism monitor said an operative claimed links between the Islamic State (IS) militant group and the attack.

“An Islamic State (IS) Filipino operative who provides daily updates on the ongoing clashes in Marawi stated that the group is responsible for the attack at Resorts World Manila in Pasay, Philippines,” the SITE Intelligence Group reported.

Duterte: Security officials consulted...

PAGE A1 May 23.

Duterte shot back at critics who said that he did not consult the Armed Forces of the Philippines and defense officials when he declared military rule in Mindanao, an island of 22 million south of Manila.

Duterte said that considering the losses the military and the police would take, he could not just make the declaration without consulting the country’s security forces.

“Sabi nila, I did not consult the military. Unang-una you can hardly talk to the fools and the stupid. They will never understand. You do not declare martial law without asking the soldiers and the policemen,” he said.

Last week, a newspaper report quoted a source who said that the president declared martial law despite an assurance from Gen. Eduardo Año, the AFP chief, that everything was under control in Marawi City.

The source said in the news-

paper report that Duterte’s decision was due to his desire to replicate the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of military rule in 1972.

“Obviously, he decided on his own to impose martial law in Mindanao. He is obsessed with it and with replicating what the late dictator (Ferdinand Marcos) did,” the source commented.

Two days ago, senator belonging to the minority revealed that Delfin Lorenzana, the Defense secretary, admitted to the Senate in a closed-door meeting that government forces could neutralize the Maute Group even without placing the island of 22 million under army rule.

He has since clarified that he meant declaring martial law was imperative.

Duterte said that he would immediately lift martial law in Mindanao if his security officials tell him that the situation is already manageable.

However, the president said that if needed martial law would go beyond 60 days if the police and the military thought that

the situation was still volatile.

The president said: “I am one of those hurrying it up. The earlier we attain the equanimity of the community the stability I will be the first to clamor the lifting of martial law.”

“Are we okay? Because if we are, then let’s lift it immediately. But for as long as the military [says], ‘Sir, hindi pa talaga kaya,’ and it’s beyond 60 days, Congress must understand that we need more time,” he added.

The president told his audience that he was saddened by the mounting number of casualties among government forces as he underscored that he was in a hurry to end the clashes in the city.

“Marami akong patay. I’m very sad. Marami akong sundalong patay. Marami akong pulis patay. Di lang nila nirerecord ang ilan. Wala akong nakita na newspaper na the following died today. I lose about 3, 4. It keeps on increasing every day for as long as that war rages on,” the chief executive said.

House, Senate pass resolution supporting...

PAGE A1 Earlier on Tuesday, May 30, the Senate likewise adopted its amended Resolution No. 388 which says it has “no compelling reason” to revoke Duterte’s Proclamation Number 216.

Fifteen senators filed the first version of resolution on Monday, May 29.

They were Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, Senators Ralph Recto, Sonny Angara, Nancy Binay, JV Ejercito, Sherwin Gatchalian, Richard Gordon, Gregorio Honasan, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda, Emmanuel Pacquiao, Vicente “Tito” Castelo Sotto III, Joel Villanueva, Cynthia Villar, and Juan Miguel Zubiri.

Senators Francis Escudero and Grace Poe later signed the amended resolution “expressing the sense of the Senate not to revoke, at this time, Proclamation No. 216, series of 2017, entitled ‘Declaring a state of martial law and suspending the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in the whole of Mindanao.’”

All five minority bloc senators, meanwhile, voted against the resolution: Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Senators Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, and Risa Hontiveros. The vote was 17-5.

Malacañang, for its part, welcomed the Senate majority’s move.

“The President has acted swiftly and decisively to suppress the ongoing rebellion in Marawi and to prevent its spread in the provinces of Mindanao,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement.

Earlier on May 23, a clash sparked between government forces and an Islamic States (IS)-linked militant group in Marawi City, prompting Duterte to impose martial law and suspend the writ of habeas corpus in the whole Mindanao later on the same day.

PARADE OF TANKS. A column of tanks transported by the Philippine Navy gunship BRP Tarlac arrives in Iligan City to support troops in Marawi City. Government security forces have killed 89 terrorists during more than a week of fighting in Marawi City but the gunmen are still offering strong resistance with stolen weapons and ammunition, the military said on Wednesday, May 31.

Inquirer.net photo by Richel Umel

Since last week’s atrocities, the death toll has reached over 100, wherein more than half were from the militant’s side, according to the military. Government officials said clearing operations are still ongoing in the area.

With the approval of House Resolution No. 1050, the separate resolution filed by Makabayan bloc calling for a joint congressional session to revoke Duterte’s declaration was effectively dismissed.

The Makabayan bloc’s resolution, which was filed on Tuesday, May 30, said the declaration of martial law throughout Mindanao “is entirely bereft of factual basis.”

“It is unwarranted, unjustifiable, and wholly out of proportion to the threat posed by the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups,” the bloc added.

Among the signatories of the resolution were Antonio Tinio and France Castro of Alliance of Concerned Teachers; Emmi de Jesus and Arlene Brosas of

Gabriela; Carlos Zarate of Bayan Muna; Ariel Casilao of Anakpawis; and Sarah Jane Elago of Kabataan.

They bloc warned that the imposition of a state of martial law in Mindanao “could just be a prelude to similar declarations of military rule in other parts of, or the entire country, in the immediate future” if left unchallenged.

Section 18, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution states that the president of the Philippines may place the country under martial law and suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in case of invasion or rebellion for not exceeding than 60 days.

The law, however, also gives the Congress the power to revoke or extend such proclamation or suspension for a period.

The Supreme Court may also review the “sufficiency of the factual basis” of the proclamation or the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus following an “appropriate proceeding filed by any citizen.”

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Dateline USa

HELPING DISTRESSED OFWs. Senator Cynthia A. Villar, a known advocate of the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), gives start up kit for a sari-sari store and a financial assistance under Villar’s program to the returning OFWs who were maltreated or victimized by illegal recruitment. Some of these OFWs have also sought the assistance of Blas Ople Policy Center for their repatriation. In the photo are (L-R) returning OFWs Lory Rose Beniegla of Las Pinas City, Nonalie Hosanilla of Talipapa, Quezon City, Ms. Susan Ople of Blas Ople Policy Center, Merlita Dignadice of Pasil, Iloilo, Senator Cynthia Villar, Reynaldo Batuigas of Marilao Bulacan and Marife Pagtalunan of Calumpit Bulacan.

Senate photo

US embassy notifies citizens of stricter security measures

by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com

THE U.S. embassy in Manila has informed American citizens of increased security measures in Metro Manila, including possible checkpoints, following attacks by the Maute group in Marawi City.

In a message to its citizens, the embassy said it received information that the Philippine government had placed the Philippine National Police (PNP) on full alert throughout the metropolis.

It stated that a unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been deployed to Quezon City to assist the PNP with security operations such as random checkpoints, security patrols and police visibility operations.

“The PNP advises that this is a precautionary measure in light of the declaration of martial law in Mindanao and not related to any specified terror threat information directed toward Metro Manila,” the embassy said.

The embassy reminded American nationals of the most recent Worldwide Caution, dat-

TIGHT SCREENING. A police officer checks the identity of a resident against a chart with images of “local terrorists” at a checkpoint in Iligan City. The city was placed placed under a temporary lockdown amid fears that members of the Maute Group may enter the city disguised as civilians.

ManilaTimes.net photo

ed March 6, 2017, which indicates there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines.

Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems like airlines and other public venues where large

crowds gather.

Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses and popular restaurants have also been targets.

U.S. citizens are advised to be mindful of the importance of taking measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines, said the embassy.

Senate passes bill ensuring transit agencies receive revenue from fare evasion tickets SB 614 follows up on legislation decriminalizing fare evasion violations for minors, provides incentives for agencies to issue their own citations

SACRAMENTO – A legislation

by Sen. Bob Hertzberg, (D-Van Nuys) that encourage transit agencies to set up their own administrative processes for citing and fining juveniles who ride without paying fare was passed last May 15 by the Senate.

SB 614 was approved by the Senate on a 38-0 vote and goes next to the Assembly for consideration.

“Fare evasion is wrong, and there should be consequences to violations,” Hertzberg said.

“While a criminal charge is too harsh a punishment for youths, transit agencies can and should issue their own citations and fines to violators. This bill makes that easier by clarifying that the fines collected should go to the transit agency issuing the citations.”

The Legislature passed, and the governor signed into law,

SB 882 last year. It decriminalized public transit fare evasion for minors by eliminating transit agencies’ ability to cite for this offense under the penal code.

Criminal charges for transit fare evasions can force youths to miss school for court appearances, saddle a youth with a criminal record and, sometimes, result in a youth ending up in juvenile hall. The measure is part of Hertzberg’s ongoing efforts to roll back overly harsh penalties for minor offenses that hit the poor and the working poor especially hard.

SB 882 reduces the likelihood a youth will enter the criminal justice system or drop out of school. Research shows that when a youth makes even one court appearance during school, it quadruples his or her odds of being pushed out of

school altogether.

As an alternative, SB 882 encouraged the use of an administrative process to assess penalties. The administrative enforcement is similar to a court procedure with a hearing and appeals process, except the possibility of a criminal record or jail time is eliminated.

Existing law requires that revenue from public transit citations issued under the administrative process be deposited in the county’s general fund. By changing that portion of the law and directing fare evasion citation fines and fees to go to the transit agency that issues them, it creates an incentive for agencies to set up their own administrative processes.

The legislation is sponsored by the California Transit Association and the Western Center on Law and Poverty.

Fil-Am nabs Hawaii GOP...

PAGE A1 tury to be reunited with their loved ones,” Hirono added.

“While the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole program provides temporarily relief for Filipino World War II veterans and their children, this bill codifies our nation’s promise to reunite these families.”

In the 1990s, about 50 years after the war, the U.S. granted Filipino veterans of WWII citizenship as recognition for their services. However, this didn’t include the children or families of the veterans.

If the families of the veterans want to reunite, they have to apply for a family visa, but U.S. Citizenship and Immigration services (USCIS) limits the amount of family visas granted each year. Consequently, many families must wait years for USCIS to review their application.

The Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act places an exemption on veterans’ children from the quota and allows them to bypass the limitation.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.),

who has been a long-time advocate for honoring Filipinos’ efforts in WWII, co-sponsored the bill and praised Hirono and Hanabusa for expanding the benefits for the families of these veterans.

“I’m honored to represent the vibrant Filipino-American communities of Virginia, including those who fought bravely alongside Americans during World War II,” the 2016 vice presidential candidate said in a statement. “An outdated immigration system has kept these veterans separated from their families, who remain overseas.

Their reunion is even more important because of the veterans’ advanced age and health care needs. This bill builds on the progress we made last year by expediting the visa process for children of Filipino World War II veterans. I’m proud to stand alongside Senator Hirono once again in this just cause.

The bill has been co-sponsored by more than 20 members of Congress including Sens Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Catherine

Shirlene Ostrov

Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Representatives Madeleine Bordallo (D-Guam), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Tulsi Gabbard (D-Hawaii), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Mark Takano (D-Calif.).

More than 250,000 Filipinos lent their efforts in the war and there are about 15,000 veterans — all of whom are in their 80s and 90s — that are still alive today. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

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Legislators reintroduce bill to ensure immigration documents reach recipients via secure mail WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, May 24, Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA), Congressman Rob Woodall (RGA), and Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) reintroduced H.R. 2595, the bipartisan Strengthening the Department of Homeland Security Secure Mail Initiative Act (Secure Mail Initiative Act). If passed, the Secure Mail Initiative Act would ensure that sensitive documents, such as green cards, travel documents, and employment authorization forms, are received by their intended recipients. The Act would also update the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Secure Mail Initiative (USCIS SMI) so that recipients can choose signature-required delivery for those documents to more reliably guarantee receipt. The Senate version of this legislation is cosponsored

by Senators David Perdue (R-GA) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY).

“I am proud to be a joint author, along with Congressman Woodall and our Senate counterparts, of the Secure Mail Initiative Act. This bipartisan and bicameral legislation will ensure that immigration documents safely reach their intended destination, saving the recipients from suffering massive financial burdens and keeping sensitive documents from the hands of terrorists or human traffickers,” Rep. Speier said.

“Good public policy can always be traced back to good public service, and that’s certainly true of this bill,” said Rep. Woodall.

“On many occasions I’ve worked with constituents in my district who have directly experienced the personal and financial dam-

age that occurs when their requested USCIS documents do not arrive. I’m always happy to help constituents recover these vital documents on a case-by-case basis, but H.R. 2595 addresses the underlying problem by offering applicants a mechanism that prevents them from being lost in the first place. I was proud to partner with Rep. Speier in this effort last Congress – where it was passed unanimously by the House – and I welcome the opportunity to work with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move it to the President’s desk this Congress.”

“From green cards, to travel documents, and employment authorizations, it is imperative we have reliable ways to guarantee that immigration documents from the Department of Homeland Security are not only delivered to the correct address but are also safely and timely received by the addressee,” said Sen. Menendez. “At a time when any immigration mix-up may qualify an individual to be prioritized for deportation, this legislation is an important step towards reducing unnecessary disruption in the lives of immigrant families.”

“When sensitive immigration documents such as green cards, travel papers, and employment authorizations wind up in the wrong hands the consequences for families can be dire,” Sen. Perdue said. “These situations are easily avoidable with simple safety measures like signature confirmation or in-person pick up options. By making these options available within the Secure Mail Initiative, DHS and USPS will be able to provide peace of

mind and more effective service to customers.”

“Too many New Yorkers who have gone through the long process of applying for their green cards or work permits have had the rug pulled out from under them when their I.D. card was lost in the mail,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “This bill would make sure that green cards and work permits end up in the right hands and enable New York immigrants to keep their hard-earned I.D. cards safe.”

In 2011, USCIS completed implementation of the Secure Mail Initiative, which requires permanent resident cards, travel documents, and employment authorization documents to be sent using U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail with Delivery Confirmation that monitors delivery via a tracking number. Despite this change, there are reports nationwide that these documents do not always reach their intended recipients, even though the Delivery Confirmation system indicates the items have been delivered. This can result in great costs for the recipients, who are forced to seek copies of these critical documents, and the federal government: For example, people waiting for a green card have no recourse except to re-apply while paying an additional fee of $450.

Meanwhile, USCIS’s immigration processing system is undermined and it is possible for bad actors to steal or misuse the documents in ways that threaten national security. The Secure Mail Initiative Act would close that loophole by allowing recipients to elect signature-required delivery at no extra cost to taxpayers.

Roach unbothered by Pacquiao’s sluggish...

PAGE A1

champion, looked slow in the first two rounds of his sparring sessions but immediately turned up the ante when he faced up against Mexican Adrian Young.

The future Hall of Famer showed off his footwork and circled around a confused Young who sparred with Pacquiao for four rounds.

Famed boxing trainer Freddie Roach doesn’t mind seeing his prized pupil Manny Pacquiao go on slow starts during his sparring sessions in preparation for the Jeff Horn bout come July 2.

Pacquiao (59-6-2) is preparing to defend his WBO World welterweight championship against the undefeated Horn (16-0-1) in Australia, and has so far breezed through his sparring partners despite the sluggish beginnings.

“Whenever he wanted to turn it on, he did,” said Roach Thursday during Pacquiao’s training session at Elorde Gym in the Mall of Asia Complex.

Pacquiao, boxing’s only eightdivision World champion, looked slow in the first two rounds of his sparring sessions but immediately turned up the ante when he

faced up against Mexican Adrian Young.

The future Hall of Famer showed off his footwork and circled around a confused Young who sparred with Pacquiao for four rounds.

And for Roach, he doesn’t mind if Pacquiao wants to start things slow.

“He can turn it whenever he wants and that’s exactly what I want from him,” said Roach.

“If he’s running through his sparring partners everyday we won’t have any sparring partners left.”

SENATORS WAIT FOR THE ARRIVAL OF LATE SENATOR KALAW. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, together with Senate Minority Vicente Sotto, Senator Gregorio Honasan II, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Senators Joseph Victor Ejercito, Risa Hontiveros and Nancy Binay, wait for the arrival of the casket bearing the remains of Kalaw at the front of the Senate building Thursday, June 1, 2017. Current and past senators honored the late senator who was the fifth woman to be elected in the Senate in 1965 during a necrological service.

Senate photo by Joseph Vidal

Trump asks world leaders to call him on his cellphone UNITED States President Donald Trump asks world leaders to call him directly on his cellphone, according to an Associated Press report.

According to U.S. officials, who requested anonymity, Trump gave Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto his personal number, inviting them to just call him directly.

AP reported that only Trudeau has utilized the direct communication line so far.

The U.S. leader also reportedly exchanged numbers with

newly-elected French President Emmanuel Macron when the two spoke after the latter’s election victory in May, according to a French official.

The official, who also requested anonymity, refused to comment if Macron would communicate with Trump through his personal line.

Both the White House and Trudeau’s office refused to comment on the issue, which raised concerns about communications security and possible break of diplomacy, “If you are speaking on an open line, then it’s an open line, meaning those who have the ability to monitor those conversations are doing so,” Derek Chollet, a

former Pentagon adviser and National Security Council official told the AP. The report came weeks after the supposed “confidential” transcript of the phone conversation between Trump and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was publicized.

The full transcript, apparently revealed the conversation between Duterte and Trump that occurred during the closing of the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Manila in April 29.

Both the Philippine and U.S. governments refused to verify the transcript but none disputed its content either.

PAGE A1 saying the park developers assured her that they would “preserve the environment.”

“They told us, ‘We are not going to destroy the corals. The restaurant will be floating... Of course we know that we will preserve the place.’” the tourism secretary said.

She went on to say, “In fact, they said: ‘You’re lucky because, actually, we were thinking of a place somewhere in Indonesia.’

But they bid and it’s in Coron.”

From a “tourism perspective,” Teo said her department is “excited” about the attraction that would draw more tourists.

Coron Counselor and Tourism Committee Chairman Michael Sadhwani, however, said that “no formal communication” has been

given to the local government regarding the project.

Earlier, a Viacom press release dated January 9 said it was planning to build an “undersea development showcasing the area’s marine life that would give fans a chance to ‘interact with the brand and the iconic characters they love.’”

The developers, however, clarified that the project is not an underwater theme park but a landbased “resort and attraction” designed as “an undersea attraction with an ocean conservation focus.”

Resiliency amid crisis In a separate statement, the DOT expressed confidence in the resiliency of the Philippines’ tourism industry amid the imposition of martial law in Mindanao due

to the ongoing confrontation between the government forces and local militants in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. “This is just a temporary setback. We express full confidence with our Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP),” Teo was quoted saying in a press release.

While cancellations of trips have been reported, Teo said there are still “wide selection of alternative destinations in Mindanao and elsewhere in the country.”

The tourism chief also expressed confidence that Mindanao would recover from the crisis and win more visitors.

Likewise, the DOT assured that it would continue monitoring the ground to ensure the safety of both local and foreign tourists.

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

Tourism chief: Nickelodeon park...

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DOJ: Napoles tags Trillanes, De Lima, Drilon in pork scam

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

DETAINED businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles is preparing to file a case against three opposition senators in connection with the multibillion-peso Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) anomaly, according to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II. In an interview with ABSCBN’s “Umagang Kay Ganda,” Aguirre disclosed that Napoles’ lawyer Stephen David told him that her camp would soon file a complaint before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against “prominent personalities” who allegedly benefitted from the so-called pork barrel scam.

Among the senators Napoles implicated in the scam were Antonio Trillanes IV and Leila de Lima, and Franklin Drilon.

Former budget secretary Butch Abad was also included.

“Ang mga nabanggit niya ay prominent personalities sa nakaraang administrasyon—sina Abad, parang kasama rin si Senator Trillanes, Senator De Lima, at Senate [Minority Leader] Drilon (Napoles mentioned prominent personalities from the previous administration—former budget Abad, and also Senator Trillanes, Senator De Lima, and [former] Senate President Drilon),” Aguirre said.

Trillanes and De Lima were notably among Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s staunchest critics while Drilon is currently the minority president.

During the previous administration of former president Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, both Abad and De Lima headed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and DOJ respectively.

“Yun pong kay Janet Napoles ay nakausap ko na po, actually ‘yung kanyang lawyer, at sabi niya in a few days magsasampa sila ng kaukulang habla at ifa-file ata nila ‘yun sa DOJ (I talked with

Janet Lim Napoles

Napoles’ lawyer, and he said that they will file a complaint before the DOJ in a few days),” Aguirre said.

Aguirre also denied accusations that the Duterte is taking “revenge” against his critics through the case.

“Ang tingin ko po diyan ay pagpapatupad ng katarungan, sapagkat kapag ikaw po ay nagkasala at alam naman natin na kung ikaw ay namuno sa napakalaking pag-rape sa ating kabangbayan, wala pong, walang dapat ipaghiganti ang ating Pangulo (I see this as an implementation of justice because if you committed a crime and you plundered our nation’s coffers, there is no need for the President to seek revenge),” he said.

In a what seemed to be a turn of events, Napoles, who has been accused as the mastermind of the scam, is being eyed as a state witness in the DOJ’s planned reinvestigation.

For their part, the three accused senators denied claims of their involvement in the scam.

In a statement, Drilon tagged the allegations against him as an “outright black propaganda” and political harassment intended to silence the members of the opposition.”

“The intention is obvious from the personalities being linked. If this is not revenge, I don’t know

Inquirer.net photo

what it is,” Drilon said, stressing any claims of him misusing public funds is “a blatant lie.”

Trillanes, meanwhile, accused Aguirre of “using his office to persecute and harass members of the opposition by fabricating testimonies from dubious convicts or detainees.”

“I categorically deny any involvement in any irregularity regarding PDAF (Priority Development Assistance Fund), DAP (Disbursement Acceleration Program), or any government funds, for that matter. I was never even mentioned in any of the so-called Napoles lists provided during the height of the investigations in 2013,” Trillanes said.

De Lima, for her part remarked that “only fools will believe” Aguirre and Napoles.

“The woman who stole billions in the PDAF Scam is now being glorified to turn state witness against targeted opposition personalities,” she added.

De Lima further said, “Expect a complaint substantiated with nothing but Napoles’s worthless words, and Aguirre’s reputation for fake accusations. Justice in the Philippines now is a joke, the biggest joke since Aguirre was appointed Secretary of Justice. Unfortunately, it’s a joke that imprisons and punishes the innocent and rewards criminals.”

House formally drops Duterte impeachment bid

by Dana

M. SioSon

AJPress

THE House of Representatives on Tuesday, May 30, officially junked the impeachment complaint filed against Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

With 217 affirmative votes, the House has adopted the Justice Committee’s Resolution 1015 which recommends the dismissal of the impeachment bid filed by Magdalo Partylist Rep. Gary Alejano against the president.

Apart from Alejano, only three other lawmakers voted against the resolution. They were Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat, and Akbayan Rep. Tom Villarin.

No lawmaker abstained from voting.

In March 16, Alejano filed an impeachment complaint against Duterte over the president’s alleged links to the so-called Davao Death Squad (DDS), the massive killings in his war against illegal drugs, and his alleged undeclared wealth worth nearly P2.2 million.

A supplementary complaint against the president was also filed in March 30 for his alleged

inaction over territorial issues concerning Benham Rise and the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea).

Article 11, Sec. 2 of the 1987 Constitution states that the president “may be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of, culpable violation of the Constitution, treason, bribery, graft and corruption, other high crimes, or betrayal of public trust.”

On Monday, May 29, the Justice Committee unanimously voted for the dismissal of the impeachment case against the president due to Alejano’s lack of “personal knowledge” in his allegations.

Lawmakers said that Alejano failed to procure “authentic records” and only based his supporting claims on “hearsay.”

“Now, be it resolved by the House of Representatives to dismiss the verified complaint and the supplemental complaint for the impeachment of President Duterte filed by Rep. Gary Alejano for the reason that the complaints, while defective yet sufficient in form, are not sufficient in substance,” the resolution read.

The Committee also recommended that “the Rules of Proce-

dure in Impeachment Proceedings of the House of Representatives be amended to explicitly allow the dismissal of the impeachment complaint based on insufficiency in form.”

Alejano, for his part, expressed great dismay over the House panel’s decision to junk the bid.

“The members of this chamber have effectively provided a year of immunity to the President to hold him accountable to his actions,” he said.

Section 3, Article XI of the 1987 Constitution states that “no impeachment proceedings shall be initiated against the same official more than once within a period of one year.”

Alejano pointed out that the dropping of the impeachment case also showed the whole nation “how the rules were bent” and “how this institution became an accessory to the countless deaths in our streets.”

He went on to say, “By voting to dismiss, this institution effectively shied away from showing that it is independent, and is a trustworthy venue for its people to hold the President accountable to his actions and policies.”

Unlike ASEAN, G7 leaders send strong statement on South China Sea

by PatriCia lourDeS Philstar.com

viray

MANILA — Contrary to their Southeast Asian counterparts, the leaders of the Group of Seven advanced economies reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a rules-based order in the East and South China Seas.

The G7—composed of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States—urged all parties to pursue demilitarization of disputed features in the region.

“We reaffirm our commitment to maintaining a rules-based order in the maritime domain based on the principles of international law, including as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and to the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes through diplomatic and legal means, including arbitration,” the G7 leaders said in a joint communique following their meeting in Taormina, Italy over the weekend.

The leaders were also strongly opposed to any unilateral actions that could increase tensions in the region.

This statement from the G7 leaders appears to be stronger than the Chairman’s Statement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations issued on April 29.

Despite having four member states directly involved in the maritime dispute, the ASEAN under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte did not mention the militarization of the South China Sea in its final statement after a Leaders’ Summit in Manila last month.

“We took note of concerns expressed by some Leaders over recent developments in the area.

We reaffirmed the importance of the need to enhance mutual trust and confidence, exercising selfrestraint in the conduct of activities, and avoiding actions that may further complicate the situation, and pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes, without resorting to the threat or use of force,” the ASEAN chairman’s statement read.

The 10-member regional bloc, however, reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security and freedom of navigation and overflight in and

above the South China Sea. The ASEAN also failed to mention the landmark ruling of an international tribunal which invalidated China’s nine-dash line claim over the South China Sea. China’s expansive claim in the disputed waters overlaps with the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam, which are all members of the ASEAN. Meanwhile, Beijing has expressed dissatisfaction with the mention of the East and South China Seas in the G7 statement.

“China is committed to properly resolving disputes with all nations involved through negotiations while maintaining peace and stability in the East China Sea and South China Sea,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lu Kang said in a statement.

China has a dispute with Japan, a G7 member, over a group of uninhabited islets in the East China Sea. Lu referred to the statement as “irresponsible remarks” and called on the G7 and other nations to “refrain from taking positions.”

BICAMERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE. Senator Grace Poe, chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services, poses with Senate President ProTempore Ralph Recto (2nd from left) and his wife, Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto (3rd from left), after the bicameral conference committee hearing on Wednesday, May 31, on the disagreeing provisions of a bill extending the validity of drivers’ licenses from three to five years. They were joined by (from left) AKO BICOL Partylist Representative Alfredo Garbin, Catanduanes Representative Cesar V. Sarmiento, 1-PACMAN Partylist Representative Enrico Pineda, 1-Ang EDUKASYON Partylist Salvador Belaro Jr., Surigao del Sur 2nd District Representative Johnny Pimentel, and Antipolo City 2nd District Representative Romeo Acop.

Senate photo by Alex Nuevaespaña

Moody’s sees limited impact of martial law

by Mayvelin

Caraballo Manilatimes.net

CREDIT watchdog Moody’s Investors Service said the Marawi siege and the imposition of martial law in Mindanao will not have material impact on the Philippines’ robust economic outlook for the near term.

However, although unlikely to happen, potential challenges to the constitutional system of checks and balances could arrest or reverse the improvements in the rule of law over the past few years, it said in a commentary released on Wednesday, May 31.

On May 23, in the wake of a proIslamic State Maute Group attack on Marawi City, capital of Lanao del Sur, President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law across Mindanao, a region that comprises the southern third of the Philippines.

“We expect the impact on economic activity from the crisis in Marawi to be minimal and shortlived,” Moody’s said.

Citing official statements that the military has regained control of most of Marawi as of May 30, it pointed out that congressional approval for martial law extension may not be needed for much longer, pending the full resolution of the situation.

With this, the credit ratings agency maintained its forecast for real gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the Philippines at 6.5 percent for 2017, or within the 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent official target of the government.

Moody’s cited some facts: Mindanao has about 24 percent of the

Philippine population; it accounted for 15 percent of GDP in 2016 and contributed less than one percentage point to the country’s real GDP growth of 6.8 percent in the same year.

“Unless violence escalates markedy and/or martial law is exPAGE A7

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OpiniOn

Features

ISIS not a figment of the President’s imagination IT is easy to misread, misinterpret and misunderstand a leader like President Rodrigo Duterte whose public pronouncements are a mix of jokes and serious allegations regarding the extent of corruption in government, the illegal drugs scourge and the spread of terrorist organizations in the country, especially when his speeches are punctuated by a barrage of crisp profanities.

One thing’s for sure, he is not joking about the deepening infiltration of the southern Philippines by Islamist militants, particularly by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, the global terrorist network that goes by the acronym ISIS or IS. ISIS has big plans for Mindanao, foremost of which is to turn the porous island into an IS nucleus.

But more than that, Mindanao will serve as base of operations for an IS East Asia Division.

It is no fantasy, and definitely not a figment of President Duterte’s imagination, when juxtaposed with images and footages of the raging battle between government troops and Abu Sayyaf and Maute militants in Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur. The militants have taken over government buildings, took civilian hostages and probably killed scores of innocent civilians. They are carrying and raising the monochromatic flag of ISIS that has come to symbolize the brutality of jihad in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia and southern Philippines.

The situation now in Marawi City was the very topic of a gathering of security experts last month in

Singapore, the Milipol conference on homeland security.

According to a report by Agence France-Presse, a security expert discussed extensively the creation of a militant base in Mindanao. “Currently, IS is moving towards creating a territory in southern Philippines. The most recent communication issued by IS has announced that they have formally declared an East Asia division of IS in the southern Philippines,” counter-terrorism analyst Rohan Gunaratna said.

“The instability in the southern Philippines and the availability of weapons, internal displacement, refugee flows … create the ripe conditions for foreign terrorists to come,” he told AFP after his speech.

The siege in Marawi prompted Duterte—on May 23—to issue Proclamation No. 216, Declaring a State of Martial Law and Suspending the Writ of Habeas Corpus in the Whole of Mindanao.

His critiques were quick to point out the folly of what the President has done. Human Rights Watch has raised the prospect of abuse of authority by the implementors on the ground. Martial law is not a free pass for abuse, according to HRW.

Guest Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

Former President Fidel Ramos, a veteran of the Marcos regime martial law, noted that Proclamation 216 was ill-timed and “unbecoming” of the Duterte administration. “Those in the Cabinet, in Congress, who are very vocal about martial law being good for Mindanao, may not have experienced being shot by someone. Or being forced to evacuate in a safe place, or to lose a job, livelihood, or a loved member of a family,” Ramos said on Friday. He urged Duterte not to expand the coverage of martial law beyond Mindanao.

Sen. Francis Pangilinan, the president of the op-

position Liberal Party, made it clear he would block any move by Duterte to place Visayas and Luzon under military rule, especially in the absence of circumstances similar to Mindanao.

The criticisms are a healthy expression of the people’s constitutional rights and must not be suppressed even if the ISIS threat is as real as the cracks of gunfire ringing out of Marawi City. The body count tallied so far is 11 government soldiers, 31 militants.

The response must not only be real, but focused and equal to the exigencies of the situation without harming the innocent and truth. (ManilaTimes.net)

Duterte’s martial law in Mindanao: The pros and cons sides among Filipinos in America AFTER the escalating conflict and attack The Fil-Am by the terror group Maute in Marawi City, Perspective President Rodrigo Duterte has declared the much dreaded martial law in the whole of Mindanao to stop the Gel SantoS-ReloS “contamination” of the ISIS-linked terror group in Mindanao, in the whole nation, and in the Southeast Asia region.

Duterte said the terror group has already infiltrated 75 percent of Marawi with the plan of targeting Christian communities while trying to recruit Muslim youth. He feared ISIS would push through with the plan of establishing a caliphate in the Philippines’ Mindanao area, Indonesia and Malaysia and that this must be stopped.

Philippine authorities have warned the Maute group militants to surrender or die. According to ABS-CBN News, more than 100 people have been killed in the conflict which began last week. Twentyone soldiers have reportedly died and the Marines have confirmed they have killed eight terrorists in one day.

Filipinos in America have protested in the streets to demand that Duterte lift martial law, concerned about the president steering the Philippines back

PeaceMaker FoRmeR SpeakeR JoSe C. de VeneCia, JR. IN Beijing, we said we were honoured to be asked to speak before the great Beijing Forum, for we subscribe to the founding principle of President Xi Jin Ping’s historic revival and expansion of China’s legendary Silk Road— which links today’s Europe, the Middle East, and Asia much as its history and legend had linked them during the classical period.

From their beginnings—in the glory days of the Han Dynasty in the East and the Roman Empire in the West—the linkages between our countries and even those of parts of Africa had ranged beyond the exchange of material goods.

Commerce, culture, civilization From the beginning, East-West trade transcended the limits of commerce. From the beginning, it was also East-West cultural exchange; and the two-way technology transfer stimulated by that trade has been substantial enough to influence the course of either civilization.

Even long-distance travel on the ‘Silk Road’ had its beneficial effects. Notably, the Venetian Marco Polo’s account of his Silk Road travels inspired the Genoese Christopher Columbus’s voyages to the Americas’ ‘New

to human rights abuses of the Marcos dictatorship’s martial law era. Philippine Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno warned in a speech that impunity is on the rise and that fundamental rights are once again under threat.

The motive of Duterte in declaring martial law was all the more questioned because of the reported inaccurate statements he made claiming that the chief if police of Malabang was killed but the police chief himself debunked this saying he is still alive.

On Tuesday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana along with other security officials reportedly told senators in a private briefing that the military could neutralize the Maute Group even without martial law, and that the recommendation to declare it did not come from them.

Many kababayans from back home defended Duterte’s declaration of martial law, arguing that Filipinos in America are not in the position to criticize the president’s decision, especially when all he wanted was to protect the country from being attacked and conquered by ISIS. This defiance has been especially per-

sonal for Filipinos from Mindanao who contend that their lives are the ones under threat and that the Fil-Ams’ opposition is just making the situation worse.

However, there are also Filipinos in America who support Duterte’s decisive action to declare martial law in Mindanao.

Here is the statement of Atty. Arnedo S. Valera, Chairperson of the US Pinoys For Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP), to express their full support for Duterte’s May 23 declaration of martial law in Mindanao for 60 days, noting the extreme urgency of the crisis in the region.

Valera said: “President Duterte’s bold and decisive action is imperative in quelling the rebellion in the region, halting the escalating inhumane atrocities by the extremists, as well as insuring our national security and the safety of Filipinos, and demonstrating the government’s resolve in combating international terrorism.”

USPRCP, a nonpartisan organization composed of dual citizens based in this U.S. capital, advocates for a better life for Filipinos everywhere. Here is the full statement: 1. We support President Rodrigo Duterte’s May 23 declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao for 60 days to quell the existing rebellion, insure the national se-

Joint exploration in South China Sea: Proposal for third silk route World.’ Marco Polo started out overland, crossing the Central Asian desert to the court of Kublai Khan, stayed a dozen years, and returned to Venice by sea on the maritime route of the Silk Road. Marco Polo’s voyage took him down the South China coast to Sumatra, southeast India and today’s Sri Lanka. From there, he crossed the Indian Ocean to the Black Sea, reaching Constantinople and finally, Venice after two years at sea.

China’s rebuilding of the Silk Road The value of China’s rebuilding of the Silk Road—in both its overland and maritime linkages—is obvious; and indeed it would redound to all those nations which gathered in Beijing.

Consider how already the Central Asian states are awakening to the possibilities of modernization—as Silk Road arteries begin to link them, westward, all the way to London and eastward to Beijing, encompassing Budapest, Hamburg, Moscow and Warsaw, yes, freight to 28 European cities, moving them by sea, and by air.

We were privileged to be invited to speak at the “High-Level Dialogue in China’s Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation” in Beijing last May 15, 2017 together with more than 40 heads of state and government and former presidents, former premiers

and heads of international congregations, indeed a great achievement for President Xi Jin Ping and the Chinese people. China’s leader launched since 2013 revival of the centuries-old silk route and its 21st Century Maritime Route by sea.

Today modern infrastructure is bringing together Kunming in Yunnan with Phnom Penh and Singapore in the beginnings of a Southeast Asian “Growth Triangle.” And the long-distance trains are moving great cargoes between Asia and Europe, back and forth.

We said that in 2005, the Philippines, China and Vietnam went so far as to venture on a three-way joint seismic survey, which we helped initiate, of disputed areas in the Spratlys chain—to assess the area’s potential for hydrocarbons exploration and development. Scientists of the three nations pronounced the prospects “promising”, and it is obvious as members of the ASEAN family that today, with China, we must now find ways and means to jointly develop the area’s hydrocarbons potential to help lessen our common dependence on distant petroleum sources in the Middle East.

And look at the potential for peace, for economic development in the heartland of the South Chi-

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curity of our nation and the safety of our people, especially the civilian population, as well as combating international terrorism.

2. We condemn in the strongest possible terms the heinous terrorist acts and unconscionable atrocities perpetrated by the extremist Maute terrorist groups and their cohorts, which resulted in the willful killing of three government troops, one from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and two from the Army. In wanton disregard of human lives, these extremists also attacked civilian facilities, including St. Mary’s Church, Dansalan College and Ninoy Aquino School.

3. We call on all Filipinos and the international community to support the Philippine Government’s war against terrorism and extremist groups which target even non-combatants, the civilian population and cultural property, including places of worship in direct violation of the International Humanitarian Laws on armed conflicts.

4. We urge the Mindanaoans to be vigilant and to extend their assistance to the Philippine troops through relaying vital information, taking into consideration their safety and that of their families as first priority in abiding by their patriotic duty. The civilian population is an important part of the government’s fight against terrorism.

Street Talk GReG B. maCaBenta TAGALOGS have a term for approaching or solving a problem:santong dasalan or the soft, diplomatic way (dasal meaning prayer) and santong paspasan or the direct, tough way.

We now know what approach President Rodrigo Duterte prefers.

But wasn’t that why he was voted into office by a citizenry that had gotten exasperated with the way the administration of President Benigno Aquino III handled problems of governance?

According to critics, the way Aquino and his government tackled problems (or even opportunities) ranged from passive-tentative to outright incompetent. They even coined a pejorative based on his nickname, Noynoying, which was supposed to mean taking it easy or not feeling a sense of urgency.

Well, Duterte’s supporters have gotten what they wished for. He has acted promptly, directly and harshly in his anti-drug campaign, and this tough style of governance has extended to other aspects of his administration.

In only his first year in office, his war on drugs has been bloody.

Media and assorted kibitzers, as well as the PNP, have estimated the deaths to be in the thousands.

We pray for the families and children of our troops killed in defense and security of our country. Further, that they may find divine strength and spiritual blessings in these trying times. We call on the government and our community to extend all kinds of support to the families of our heroes, especially their children.

5. We salute and express our full support for our troops in their heroic role to fight and eradicate terrorism in Mindanao and elsewhere. This is the time to support our troops and our government to secure the national and territorial integrity of our nation and the safety and security of all Filipinos, as well as to demonstrate our resolve that international terrorism does not flourish.

US Pinoys for Real Change in the Philippines (USPRCP) Chairperson of USPRCP : Rev. Atty.

Arnedo S. Valera , Esquire Dan Jimenez Mike Ocampo Conrad Martinez Elizabeth E. Babiera *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Now is the time for all good men Duterte has certainly served notice that he meant it when he vowed that bodies would fill up Manila Bay. Duterte has also fired a cabinet secretary and lower level officials for a variety of reported transgressions, thereby serving notice to those afflicted with the easy-going bureaucratic habit that their noynoying days are over.

Duterte’s style—reminiscent of the movie character, Dirty Harry— has also called to mind another Tagalog phrase, Sala sa init, sala sa lamig, which means going to extremes (too hot or too cold) and not striking an ideal balance.

The international notoriety that Duterte has gained because of his anti-drug war is not without basis.

His bullheadedness is also turning off leaders of foreign countries whose help the Philippines needs.

His defiant declaration that he would rather starve than ask for help from those who frown on his bloodbath is pure bluster. In the first place, Duterte and his family will never starve, but there are millions of poor Pinoys who could.

And yet, we should not be too hasty in condemning his declaration of martial law to address the crisis in Marawi. It was a crisis that he, as a leader, had to confront and he had to make a prompt decision. Santong paspasan.

On the other hand, while objective observers appreciate the tough approach that he has taken, they are concerned that extending

martial law across the whole of Mindanao is an extreme and unnecessary move.

Worse yet, they worry that members of the military, who are carrying out the presidential fiat, will abuse their power and authority. The concerns are not without basis.

Shortly after President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law in 1972, euphoria accompanied the move. Gun-toting Manilans, forced to leave their weapons at home, became uncharacteristically good-natured towards their fellowmen.

But the euphoria did not last long. Word eventually came out that perceived enemies of the Marcos government – mainly from media and the political opposition – had been rounded up and thrown behind bars without charges. Then followed reports of disappearances of student and rural activists, as well as the takeover by cronies of businesses and property owned by hapless victims.

The joke at the time was that the Marcoses were in the mining business, as in, “That’s mine, that’s mine, this is mine and those are mine.”

That experience has been replicated, as a result of Duterte’s war on drugs. With the commanderin-chief urging the troops to go for the kill, much like a warlord whipping his men into a murderous frenzy, some members

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OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • JUNE 2-8, 2017

Moody’s sees limited impact of martial law PAGE A5

tended and imposes significant constraints to the economy, the contribution of the region to national output will remain positive,” Moody’s stressed.

Moreover, the fighting has thus far been confined to Marawi, located in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, which itself accounts for only 0.7 percent of GDP. “There have only been limited disruptions to economic activity in other parts of Mindanao as authorities have sought to contain the spread of violence through enhanced surveillance,” the credit rater said.

Moody’s noted that beyond the immediate implications of the crisis in Marawi, President Duterte has publicly stated his willingness to bypass safeguards provided by the constitution against the arbitrary declaration of martial law, including the power of Congress and the Supreme Court to review, and even revoke, martial law.

It also acknowledged that Duterte has also previously threat-

ened to invoke martial law to address other issues such as the eradication of drugs, which may not conform to the definition of “cases of invasion or rebellion” that is required under the constitution.

However, the agency cited the government’s effort to clarify the President’s position.

“Officials from the executive branch have since clarified that constitutional safeguards will be honored. Because of this clarification, we do not expect the extension of martial law beyond the resolution or dissipation of the immediate threat posed by the Marawi crisis,” the debt rater said.

Nevertheless, it said any challenges to the constitutional system of checks and balances could undermine the improvement in institutional strength in the Philippines.

In particular, Moody’s said, the country’s rule of law ranking in the Worldwide Governance Indicators has risen from the 26th percentile among rated countries

Now is the time for all...

PAGE A6 of the PNP have tended to take no prisoners and to act as judge and executioner in dealing with suspects. Worse yet, innocent lives have been wasted, including young children, and dismissed as “collateral damage.”

More bad news: critics doubt that the bigtime drug lords have stopped their lucrative operations, pointing out that the fatalities have been mostly slipper-shod residents of squatters’ areas.

But what is most disturbing is that certain elements of the PNP have seen an opportunity to make a profit from Duterte’s kill orders, epitomized by the kidnap-killing of a Korean businessman, right within the grounds of PNP headquarters.

However, whatever the critics, the political opposition and the human rights activists say, the country is facing a serious problem, not just in Marawi but in Mindanao. As I write this, CNN has just reported that “ISIS has planted its flag in the Philippines.”

The report stated that the presence of ISIS in Marawi is “the first outside the Middle East.” Whether accurate or not (it is said that ISIS has been recruiting and indoctrinating disgruntled Mindanaoans for some years now), that news

which was broadcast worldwide will have an impact on tourism and the economy. It will also attract adventurers, mercenaries and ideologues to the new battleground in Mindanao.

Clearly, the Marawi crisis is not the time for noynoying or halfway measures. To say that Duterte’s move should have been limited to Marawi may be naïve. Would these critics prefer to fight the ISIS cancer when it has already metastasized across Mindanao?

And those who think that the cancer will be limited to Mindanao and will not spread across the country, particularly Metro Manila, may be equally naïve.

Indeed, it is so easy to be a kibitzer and to point out all the bad things that can result from the declaration of martial law, especially when one does not have access to in-depth information on the seriousness of the threat.

On the other hand, a citizenry that has already had a painful experience with the suspension of civil liberties cannot be blamed for being skeptical. Like the cat who sat on a hot stove, avoiding even an unlighted stove, it is understandable when people declare, “Never again!” about martial law.

This is where our national lead-

in 2009 to the 32nd percentile in 2015, albeit still at low levels.

“Along with enhancements to government effectiveness and the control of corruption, the greater policy predictability afforded by better rule of law has underpinned a more favorable environment for economic growth and investment in recent years,” it said.

“It is unlikely recent developments in Mindanao will lead to changes in economic and fiscal policies, which continue to be anchored by Duterte’s well-articulated 10-point Socioeconomic Development Agenda that seeks to improve revenue generation through tax reform, lift infrastructure spending beyond 5 percent of GDP, and increase investment in human capital and development, among other measures.

However, if recent events lead to prolonged uncertainty around security or governance, such a development would eventually dampen business confidence and, consequently, economic outcomes,” it concluded.

ers, whatever their political stripes may be, should close ranks for the sake of the country. They should rally behind the president, giving him the benefit of the doubt as the commander-in-chief and the person who must carry the burden of leadership.

These national leaders should consider it a solemn responsibility to contribute their wisdom to help ensure that the powers unleashed by martial law are not abused, while the terrorist threat is effectively turned back.

Frankly, it pains me to read the statements on social media posted by those for and those against the actions being taken by the president and the military. It’s bad enough that our people are being menaced by terrorist quarters, it’s unfortunate that the same people are at each other’s throat.

While watching former President Fidel V. Ramos criticize the man whose shoes he used to fit into, I could not help wondering if it had occurred to Ramos to give Duterte a call to offer his help.

I am reminded of that classic typing test on my trusty Underwood: Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country. (gregmacabenta@hotmail. com)

A7

MEMORIAL. Coinciding with the commemoration of the 34th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, with the theme “Ending AIDS Together,” the 2nd AIDS Hour in the Philippines was observed at the Quezon City Hall lobby with the Quezon City HIV-AIDS Council and various organizations on Sunday, May 28. Lighted candles were arranged to form a red ribbon to pay tribute to Filipinos who have lost their battle against HIV-AIDS. ManilaTimes.net photo by Ruy Martinez

Joint exploration in South China Sea...

PAGE A6 na Sea, once rid of conflict, a landscape and seascape of small seaports, airports, oil pipelines, small tourism townships, and fishing villages, can rapidly rise in the contested areas once converted into a Zone of Friendship, Commerce, Navigation and Development, and become the passage way, untrammeld, for all global shipping, carrying more than 50% of the sea freight of the world.

We in the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) representing more than 340 ruling, opposition, and independent political parties in Asia, have held yearly conferences in various capitals in Asia, in Beijing and in other cities of China, to help bring our peoples in Asia closer together in fraternal understanding.

Our newly organized sister organization, the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), representing individual members of parliaments, from all the continents of the world are one with ICAPP in supporting China’s Belt and Road initiative, a historic and inspiring force for peace, friendship and development, encouraging simple, practical people-to-people understanding.

The people-to-people bonds in the Belt-and-Road Initiative are the first and principal keys to achieving good relations among nations, trade facilitation, jointventures, networking, and policy coordination, as we endeavour to connect highways, railways, electricity grids, rivers and lakes

to the great arteries of the world.

Indeed, the people-to-people bonds are the first prime catalysts in the forging of trade, tourism, economic and social development and in the framing of peace and unity among nations.

We said that, inspite of difficulties a durable peace today is not impossible even in some of Asia’s troubled areas. For indeed it is most desirable if we, among ourselves, discard occasional enmity and exaggerated pride, and if we respond to the Sermon on the Mount and the hallowed spirit of China’s storied Silk Road, we could all together embark on a journey that today could lead towards the dream of a thousand years of peace and prosperity for all our nations and for all our peoples.

For the revival of the Silk Road is a vision that reflects the shift of the center of gravity from West to East, a global rebalancing whose time has come. It should help bind peoples and countries to a common future and rekindle the grandeur and glory of the old and new Asian civilization and serve as harbinger of real and expanding growth in the 21st Century.

Global potential of new expanded route And in Beijing, we said that: in order to expand, deepen and strengthen the cultural, geo-political, geo-economic, trade, and people-to-people linkages of the historic Silk Road, we now propose consideration of the development of a “third route,” to complement and extend China’s great “Belt and Road” Initiative.

For from Hainan island off Guangdong province in southern China, the route could also pass first through the Philippines, then Malaysia, Indonesia and the small island nation of Timor Leste onwards.

Already in Northwestern Philippines, as part of an extended Belt and Maritime Road plan, on the banks of the South China Sea, an agri-tourism belt and large petrochemical and industrial complex, much needed in the region, is being planned for implementation by pioneering Chinese and Philippine groups. And from Timor Leste to Australia’s Gold Coast to Sydney, and New Zealand, the extended route could move across the south Pacific, and enter Latin America: Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and the tourism-rich Caribbean islands, then Mexico, all the way to the U.S. as in the old days of the Galleon Trade from Manila to Acapulco, Mexico, which sailed for 250 years.

It is not far fetch: for there are already multiple large Chinese investments in South America. And at some point, we said the Latinos should also bring their trade to the south Pacific and into Asia.

Yes, our proposal in Beijing for the 21st Century “third route”, hopefully an enlargement of the Silk Route would make China’s celebrated ‘Belt and Road initiative” almost globally inclusive and create a linkage with two more continents—Australia and Latin America—in a new circumnavigation, in a revivable of the Age of Exploration, and new spirit in the Age of Globalization.

A8

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Captivated by Coron, Inspired by Ilocos

by MoMar

COMING home to the motherland is one of the best feelings in the world and no matter how often one goes, that elation that does not change.

The invitation to join a group of Miami-based travel agents and tour operators for a week-long trip to the Philippines came at a most opportune time: spring was almost there but winter had its claws out, trying to stay on for a few more weeks.

A March blizzard blanketed the city in a few inches of pure white snow, making it picturesque for a grand total of 24 hours. Rain followed, then the mercury rose, melting the once pristine snow and becoming puddles of dark brown mush. Not the best feeling to plow through that on a daily basis.

Me? I was already adrift on a boat, island-hopping and enjoying the blue skies and the bluer waters somewhere in Palawan.

That daydream was cut short when the pilot announced that we had already landed in Manila.

Indeed, it never gets old, that feeling of giddiness every time one sets foot on his or her homeland.

As we stepped out of the plane and into Terminal 1 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, I noticed a few changes that weren’t there BD, Before Duterte, that is.

The place seemed brighter and cleaner, and a quick bathroom check showed flowing water and toilet paper was available. The baggage carousels were moving efficiently, there was wifi and the air-conditioning worked.

There was a line at the immigration, nothing out of ordinary at first, but as soon as the passengers of the two other planes that arrived with us deplaned, the place was packed.

The temperature in New York when we left was a nippy 35 degrees Fahrenheit. When we stepped out of the airport, the

G. Visaya/AJPress

warm air of Manila’s 35-degreeCelsius weather struck us like a punch. I skipped spring altogether and jumped into summer with my jacket on.

Our friends from the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) prepared a tight but enjoyable itinerary to make the most out of this trip.

We had a walking tour in Manila, visiting Luneta, Fort Santiago and Intramuros. This was during the mini-heatwave that happened last month so we were all sweating profusely.

I was part of a tour group that consisted of Colombians, Japanese, Mexican, Brazilian and Filipino tour and travel operators from Florida, all excited to see what the Philippines had in store for them.

More than half of the group has been to Manila before and a few were first-timers.

Fernando DaSilva, COO and partner at Miami-headquartered Brickell Travel Management has been to all seven continents but he has never been to the Philippines.

Upon the invitation of the Department of Tourism through Luisa Yu, herself a travel agent who has been promoting travel to the Philippines in South Florida for decades now, DaSilva cleared his schedule and joined the tour.

“It’s hard to sell or recommend any destination if you never been there,” DaSilva told the Asian Journal. “I was particularly very impressed with the Philippines and my enthusiasm was contagious.

The entire office heard about it, saw pictures, and learned about the country through my experience. It is hard to explain but the place is so magnificent it touches you.”

When he learned that the trip was pushing through, DaSilva did his due diligence and did his research.

“I knew it was a unique place but nothing could prepare me for what was to come,” he shared. “One

has to experience it. One has to taste the delicious food, to smell the flowers, to swim in the most transparent lagoons and feel the warmth and welcoming of the people. No pictures can do due justice nor internet articles can accurately describe it.”

Our group of ten had a grand time during the tour but had an even greater time come lunch or dinner time.

From the buffets of The Peninsula to Manila Hotel to Ilocos hotels and restaurants (Fort Ilocandia in Laoag, Hotel Luna in Vigan, Two Seasons in Coron) that featured regional specialties to island picnic in Palawan, each meal was an opportunity to have conversations with some people who are looking at the country with a fresh set of eyes.

In Coron moments after conquering Mt. Tapyas, the group egged on DaSilva, the first-timer, to try the balut. The peripatetic travel junkie that he is, he obliged. And he lived to tell the tale, with videos to boot.

“The food was delicious and so diverse that for a food lover, the Philippines is a destination on its own,” he said. “From the infinite buffets in Manila to the local home made cuisine of Ilocos to the perfect fresh fish and seafood in Palawan. And let’s not forget the street vendors as a simple green mango with salt, or the more exotic balut, were a total success.”

Ilocos in my mind We flew to Laoag City to see the sights of the Ilocos Region, something I’m all to familiar with.

Growing up, we would spend a big chunk of our summer vacations in Ilocos Sur, my father’s home province. We would drive all the way to Laoag to visit some relatives and I remember those easy drives quite well, with the endless view of the sea on one side and some mountains on the other side.

Fort Ilocandia was our home base this time and it is how I remember it from staying there a decade or so ago. We were told that they are renovating a wing, I can’t wait to see the finished product.

We went around the city to explore, visiting Museo Ilokos Norte, the local church and the market.

The following morning we drove to Vigan, home to the famous empanada, longganisa, bagnet ang sinanglaw, a sampling of the Ilocano cuisine I grew up eating. En route, we passed by the Malacanang of the North and the Our tummies were filled with a plethora of Filipino dishes - from bagnet served on top of beautiful Paoay Church, founded by pinakbet to the deliriously crispy lechon kawali, Vigan longganisa and steamed prawns.

Augustinian missionaries in 1593.

We were billeted at Hotel Luna, the first and only museum hotel in the Philippines today. The hotel’s location was prime, a block away from the famous Calle Crisologo – that stretch of cobblestoned street with preserved heritage houses, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As a museum, Hotel Luna takes pride in its extensive collection of the finest in Philippine art, ranging from the classics to the modern.

There are rare and vintage artworks from notable artists, master painters, contemporary artists and National Artists such as Arturo Luz, BenCab and Napoleon Abueva, whose works adorn the lobby of the hotel, which was once one of the heritage houses in the village.

Palawan pride The Philippines is aiming to become a prime tropical travel destination and for the past few years, its islands have been reaping awards left and right. It has been a fight between Boracay and Palawan for the title of The Best Island in the World, but back in 2014, Palawan won the top plum from the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.

It’s easy to understand why.

We’ve seen gorgeous photos of the island but these photographs just don’t give justice to the beauty of the place. From the calm azure waters that effotlessly blend with the emerald forests and karst limestone hills that seem to jut out of the waters to the melange of boats and huts that dot the islands, believe me, there are no bad views.

I’ve been to Coron before, maybe a decade or so ago. Back then, we stayed on one island resort for the rest of our trip and I maxed out on adventure back then, from snorkelling to an attempt to a little scuba diving.

This time around, we stayed in the town, at the Two Seasons Resort.

It was like coming to a totally different place, specially when we ventured out to the sea and began island-hopping. Island after island, picture after picture, it dawned on me why readers of Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler would vote for Palawan as the Best Island year after year.

Coron is blessed and that is

A must-do whenever in Vigan City is a stroll along Calle Crisologo not only to see what the stores have to offer but also to experience what the Heritage Village looked like before since most of the houses on this street were preserved.

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

why the Tagbanua tribe of Coron Island are taking good care of it, making sure that the place is not over-developed and that mother nature is protected at all times.

Outside the waters, Coron is just as beautiful. We visited the Coron Church en route to the 700-step Mt. Tapyas to catch the glorious sunset, and a visit to Maquinit Hot Springs to cap the evening and relax the sore muscles from the earlier climb.

Palawan is not just the last frontier, it is paradise. And it is good to realize that it is only an hour flight away from Manila.

While it is an idyllic place to visit during the summer months, the locals we met shared that there are no longer peak months since even the oft-called lean months are now no longer lean.

After exploring the town proper on Day 1, we were off to explore the islands on Day 2 with an island-hopping tour that brought us to Siete Pecados, Banol Beach, CYC Beach and Twin Lagoon. We wanted to see Kayangan Lake but it was closed a few days earlier because of a drowning accident that involved a couple of Czech tourists. We settled for Barracuda Lake which was just as breath-taking as the hidden lagoons.

Our third day exposed us to a few more islands and lagoons, including a quick trip to Culion, the former leper colony. The municipality of Culion is roughly an hour and a half boat ride away from Coron port. We visited the La Imaculada Concepcion Church and Culion Museum and Archives,

which has become a repository of photos and memorabilia during the days when the town was the biggest leper colony in the country. The church, build around the ruins of the old fortress of Fort Culion (which was built around 1740), sits on top of a hill and provides a great vantage point for photographs.

I’m not an adventure junkie in the word’s strictest sense but I was able to enjoy exploring the islands including the trek to the lagoons and floating with the rest of the group to a secret lagoon that cannot be accessed by a boat.

I can just imagine how literal adventure junkies would feel when they get to visit the various islands of Palawan, particulalrly those who are into scuba diving because Coron Bay is reported to have some of the best ship wrecks in the world. This just means that whether you are above or below the pristine waters of Palawan, there’s an adventure waiting to happen for you.

For many in the group, the tour was perfect for its combination of the metropolis, countryside and the islands. For DaSilva, the highlight was Coron, and the buildup worked.

“Nature was very generous in Palawan. It’s a hidden paradise,” he concluded. “I must have taken over 200 pictures and none or all of them together can slightly do justice to this place. We are already working on a package that will include Coron, Kawasan Falls and whale shark swimming. It is my goal to go back next year and do this itinerary as well.”

Sharon Cuneta returns from hiatus by ricky Lo Philstar.com

AFTER Megastar Sharon Cuneta left so suddenly for a trip to the US early this month for an undisclosed reason, the public was left guessing and second guessing whether or not she would return in time for her guesting stint in the repeat of Basil Valdez’s concert at The Theatre at Solaire.

Sharon was the stellar guest in the first concert staged last April 29. Naturally, she was also expected to join the repeat. But when Sharon showed up last Friday night, May 26), the crowd didn’t stop speculating. Did she go to the US to scout for a new house, since she already sold her mansion there last year? Did she undergo liposuction to shed extra pounds (although she already lost 65 pounds to date)? Or did she leave simply for a much-needed respite?

Whatever the reasons were, Sharon left more questions than answers. She kept mum and like the true professional, when she joined Basil onstage she was in high spirits. “I’m cold, excited and happy, but very hungry,” she amused the audience, according to the Funfare source who was there.

Sharon gave not the slightest sign whether or not she was hurting inside. She regaled the audience with her long spiels and solo numbers. She shared anecdotes about how she quietly sang in one corner of the studio when she was a young girl, while Basil was recording.

In the concert, Sharon rendered “Magbalik Ka Lang,” a Kuh Ledesma

original which she dedicated to the pop diva, one of her female singing idols. “Our generation of singers is still the best,” Sharon beamed.

From the balcony, her fans screamed loudly, prompting Sharon to exclaim, “My Sharonians have been here longer than both my marriages combined.” Again, that left the audience speculating anew about the real status of her marriage (to Sen Kiko Pangilinan). However, a source close to the couple insisted there was nothing wrong with Sharon and Kiko’s marriage and that the two are still very much together.

Sharon sang a few strains of Basil’s “Kahit Ika’y Panaginip Lang,” written by the show’s musical director, Ryan Cayabyab, and she was giddy that she reached the high notes. She later rendered “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko,” the single that came after “Mr. DJ.” Both hits were composed by Rey Valera. But it was Basil who ruled the stage with his well-loved and memorable ballads.

The audience was as star-studded. Kuh, Music Museum owner Precy Florentino and Pops Fernandez shared a row with Roderick Paulate. Gretchen Barretto came with her partner, Tony Boy Cojuangco, who was Basil’s batchmate at the Ateneo since prep school. Also in the crowd were Mitch Valdes, Erik Santos, director Rowell Santiago, Jaya, Jinky Vidal, Noel Cabangon, Mel Tiangco, Panjee Gonzales, Roselle Nava, Gerard Salonga and wife DJ, and Ryan’s wife Emy and their daughter Krina. Mr. C (Ryan Cayabyab), together with Audie Gemora (entertainment director of The Theatre at Solaire), and producers Susan Sharon Cuneta performing with Basil Valdez (above, left and right) on the latter’s Solaire show with Ryan Cayabyab (left) as musical director. Sharon is leaving soon for a series of Lim and Nancy Yang. shows in the US. Photos by Gian Carlo Vizcara

JUNE 2-8, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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LBC launches Calendar Design contest for Filipinos in US and Canada

Gary V World Tour 2017 hits Pechanga Resort & Casino Theater on June 3 All tickets are now sold out!

IT’S a date! Worldrenowned artist-singer, Gary Valenciano, once again hits center-stage in Pechanga Resort & Casino Theater on June 3 at 8p.m., in his one-of-a-kind special World Tour 2017 performance.

Due to overwhelming response, all tickets are now sold out.

Thank you for all your passionate support.

Pechanga Resort & Casino is wellknown for hosting the best and the brightest Filipino entertainers and performers such as Megastar Sharon Cuneta, the singer/actress and Tony Award winner Lea Salonga, popular comedian and actor Vice Ganda, winner of “Star Power Search 2011” Angeline Quintos, international actress and top endorser Anne Curtis, and Pop Star Princess Sarah Geronimo— who all gave wholesome entertainment to the delight of the crowd.

Not only fine dining, relaxation and entertainment, Pechanga

by Deni Rose BeRnaRDo Resort & Casino wish to provide Philstar.com the ultimate experience especially, IN a contract signing today, to Filipino-American patrons.

Richard Gutierrez confirmed that Thus, Gary V, with 31 years of solid he is now a Kapamilya. international exposure in the field After years of hiatus, Richard of singing and dancing will ‘wow’ returns to television as he joins the crowd in this year’s opening the cast of ABS-CBN’s new action extravaganza. romance series, “La Luna Sangre.”

Gary V, a singer/songwriter/ “I’m very happy and thankful musician, was born to a Puertoto be in ABS-CBN,” the actor Rican mother and a Filipino father. said in this afternoon’s press He remains consistently visible in conference. the public eye since he began his “I’ve been away from the career in 1983. At 18, he first burst limelight for a while now. I really on the Philippine music scene needed that to grow as a person, with look-a-like antics of Michael as a man, to spend time with my Jackson and Al Jarreau’s pyrokid and my family. I needed that techniques. time away. Now, I’m back. Now, Of late, Gary V has released I’m ready. I’m reenergized and 32 albums including those focused and I know myself better released in the USA and the now.”

Asian Region. The Pop idol has He said he really chose to get the most illustrious track record away from it all.

“I’m very happy and thankful to be in ABS-CBN,” Richard Gutierrez said in this afternoon’s in the Philippine recording Philstar.com photo by Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo scene winning a total of 12 Awit Continued on Page 4 press conference.

A NEW year ushers in new beginnings.

What a better way to symbolize this new beginning but with a calendar that denotes the days we look forward to. That is why LBC USA and Canada have come up with a competition that will preserve their customers’ artistry and vision with the 2018 calendar as their canvass.

The LBC Calendar Design competition was launched with the theme, “The Way We Move It in the Philippines”. Artwork must be able to clearly depict the unique ways Filipinos move, may it be through cultural activities like traditional or modern dancing or way of life like transportation.

According to Patricia Garcia, VP for Sales and Operations in the Region, “We are extremely excited that our customers and their families can now participate in a nationwide contest where their artwork can be appreciated by their kababayans. More than that,

we are happy that these artworks will all be showcased through a calendar, which is what our customers look forward to every turn of the year.”

The art tilt is open to all LBC Customers and non-customers and their families. Submission of entries will be from June 1 to July 31, 2017.

Other details of the contest can be viewed at www.lbcexpress.com.

Twelve winners will be chosen, each to take home $500 with their artwork to be featured in LBC’s 2018 Collectible Calendar. Winners will be announced mid-August and calendar will be released by Thanksgiving.

Through the contest, LBC hopes to celebrate the winning masterpieces as a means of bridging the love of their Filipino customers in USA and Canada to their families and countrymen back home.

LBC is the Philippines’ market leader in retail and corporate courier & cargo, money

remittance, and logistics services.

With a growing network of over 6,400 branches, hubs & amp; warehouses, partners, and agents in over 30 countries, LBC is committed to moving lives, businesses, and communities and delivering smiles around the world. Listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange through LBC Express Holdings, Inc., LBC aims to deliver value to all of its stakeholders, as it has for over 60 years. Founded in 1945 as a brokerage and air cargo agent, LBC pioneered time-sensitive cargo delivery and 24-hour door-to- door delivery in the Philippines. Today, it is the most trusted logistics brand of the Global Filipino. LBC can move it for you: visit www.LBCexpress.com, or call telephone +632 8585 999 (Metro Manila), 1-800-10 8585999 (Provincial), +632 9086 522 (Solutions) and follow LBCExpress (Facebook and Twitter).

(Advertising supplement)

Richard Gutierrez: It’s a perfect time to be a ‘Kapamilya’

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exhibit and convention of musical instruments and equipment dealers.

At the height of his singing career, Gary V goes to great lengths to share his blessings to those who are less fortunate and as enduring artist maintains a regular Sunday show—”ASAP 20”—aired in Manila and also globally through a Filipino cable network.

Shows in the Pechanga Theater offer a comfortable and intimate concert experience. With 1,200 seats in its theater, each show features (Song) Awards (US counterpart of state-of-the-art and acoustically Grammy Awards) in the Best Male perfected sound. Enjoying favorite Recording category alone. Aside artists at Pechanga versus other from the critical acclaim given to venues proves effortless with free his album releases, he has also valet and self-parking for guests, been consistently collecting Gold, complimentary casino/resort Platinum and multi-Platinum shuttles, gourmet and casual awards for the sale of his products. dining options on site, plus His songs enjoy millions of hits comfortable chairs and an uponline. The wide acceptance of close view from every theater seat. his recordings has led many film Pechanga Resort & Casino producers to use his songs in Pechanga Resort & Casino the soundtrack of their movies. offers one of the largest and Likewise, Gary has starred in 14 most expansive resort/casino full-length movies over the span experiences anywhere in of his career. the United States. Voted the As a concert performer Number One Casino in America winning global audience, Gary by readers of USA TODAY and V stands head and shoulders rated a Four Diamond property with the world’s best. He has

by AAA since 2002, Pechanga performed with some of the most Resort & Casino provides an respected musicians and singers unparalleled getaway. Offering including Brian McKnight, George more than 3,400 of the hottest Duke, Julia Fordham, George slots, table games, world-class Black, The Emotions, and Ricky entertainment, 517 hotel rooms, Martin, to name a few. dining, spa and championship A UNICEF Ambassador golf at Journey at Pechanga, of Goodwill, Gary V is also Pechanga Resort & Casino an international endorser of features a destination that the prestigious Sennheiser meets and exceeds the needs of microphone, alongside with other its guests and the community. famous singers as Mariah Carey, Pechanga Resort & Casino is Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, owned and operated by the Paul McCartney, Elton John, Julio Pechanga Band of Luiseño Iglesias, the Backstreet Boys and Indians. For more information, Sting. This led Gary V to perform call toll free 1-888-PECHANGA or at the Musik Messe in Frankfurt, visit www.Pechanga.com.

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JUNE 2-8, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

5

President Trump’s ‘Buy American, Hire American’ executive order Problem Solved Atty. Kelly O’Reilly ON April 18, President Donald Trump signed an executive order which focused on two areas of the administration’s policy: protection of American jobs (“Hire American”) and preference for U.S.-manufactured goods (“Buy American”). With regards to the protection of U.S. jobs, the order includes a section directed to the H-1B visa program.

Trump has previously expressed his discontent with the H-1B lottery process, through which 85,000 applicants are selected annually at random out of a pool of hundreds of thousands to gain the right to live and work in the United States for up to six years. This executive order represents the first step toward making selection less reliant on a random lottery and more focused on the highest-skilled and highestpaid workers. We agree; the system needs to be improved.

The order specifically tasks the Secretary of State, Attorney General, Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Homeland Security to review employmentbased foreign worker programs and to recommend changes “as soon as practicable.” In so doing, the executive order directs the heads of these federal agencies to crack down on fraud and abuse, act consistently with applicable laws and to propose new rules and issue new guidance to replace or revise previous rules if necessary. Furthermore, a section of the executive order calls for

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MOnette AdevA MAglAyA A FARMER in Africa heard glowing stories of other farmers who have become rich by discovering diamond mines in the continent. Filled with excitement and visions of sparkling diamonds, he sold his farm quickly and set out to become a diamond prospector himself. He wandered far and wide for many years crisscrossing the huge continent hoping to strike it rich. Hope and change however proved to be a lame strategy. Alas and alack, the years took their toll and finally, having grown old, tired and despondent over his failures, he ended his life.

Meanwhile, the man who bought his farm settled in and one bright day, while fording a stream on the land he now owned, was attracted to a gleam of colored rock at the bottom of the shallow water. He picked it up out of curiosity and displayed it on his mantel as décor. One day a visitor noticed the rock and almost fainted. He asked the farmer what he thought it was and the farmer innocently said, it was a pretty crystal. The visitor told him that it was probably one of the biggest diamonds he had ever seen. It turns out that the stream had many more such diamonds at its bottom.

The first farmer never knew he was standing on his own acres of diamonds. He already owned the land free and clear which he had sold practically for a song and a dance. If he only took stock of what he had, surveyed his surroundings and explored and worked on his own acres, his story might have had a happy ending.

This story is a staple used by noted motivational speakers and writers to bring home a point.

And for good reason… The “Acres

strict enforcement of all laws that govern the use of non-U.S. labor to ensure that the H-1B visas are awarded to the “most skilled” or “highest paid” petition beneficiaries.

Future changes will most likely affect technology companies Since large tech companies employ approximately 15 percent of the allotment of H-1B holders and nearly 40 percent of these visas go to entry-level workers.

Trump hopes to lower this number to ensure that the visas go to more highly-paid workers.

This will surely affect non-profit organizations, small businesses, and start-up companies alike because they are simply unable to pay higher wages.

Consequently, skilled workers are forced towards bigger, alreadyestablished companies such as Google, Amazon, and Facebook.

Regardless, H-1B positions have always mandate the payment of a specific minimum salary determined by the department of Labor.

Consulting companies will also likely face increased scrutiny.

After all, Indian IT companies, and even Disney were singled out in White House press briefings as abusers of the program through “insourcing.” This is the practice wherein the companies laid off hundreds of IT workers and then hired H-1B immigrants to perform essentially the same functions, further claiming that these positions could not be filled by the American workforce.

While there is no immediate effect on the H-1B visa system, changes will likely entail replacing the lottery system for a more merit-based system. Adopting a more merit-based system which gives preference to the highestpaid workers has drawn dual-

party support from Congress.

Furthermore, the administration seeks to move away from the current lottery system in order to allot visa numbers towards “higher skilled” and “higher paid” individuals, with particular emphasis on those who have attained U.S. Master’s degrees.

Any change—such as cutting the total number of visas issued annually—requires legislative change, but the executive branch could potentially make adjustments such as increasing application fees, adjusting wage scales to better reflect prevailing wages, and directing the Department of Justice to work more diligently in detecting and even punishing fraud or abuse of the program.

Trump continues to focus on protecting jobs for American workers and ensuring that the H-1B program is limited to recruitment of only the best and the brightest. The executive order does not change any existing rules or procedures and will not affect the most recent H-1B season.

However, it does aim to modify or replace the current lottery system for a merit-based system. We commend the Administration on its desire to make H-1B visas great again. ***

Kelly S. O’Reilly is a nationally known immigration expert and former immigration officer. He is a highly sought after speaker on immigration and employment compliance issues. Mr. O’Reilly serves as the current chair of the Riverside County Bar Association Immigration section and is a partner in the full-service immigration firm of the Wilner & O’Reilly where he provides free consultations. Mr. O’Reilly can be contacted at (714) 919-8880 and he welcomes email inquiries at kelly@ wilneroreilly.com.

Acres of diamonds “Your diamonds are not in far distant mountians or in yonder seas; they are in your own backyard, if you but dig for them.”

-Russell H. Conwell, Acres of Diamonds of Diamond” Story is a powerful metaphor to inspire people to explore and harness their own potential as human beings striving to reach their goal of achieving the riches they seek, whether tangible, intangible or a hybrid of both.

In the most obvious terms, riches could mean physical wealth like money in the bank, a comfortable retirement, celebrity status and the perks that come with it. However, there are also those parameters that are harder to achieve and can’t be bought outright by money, like inner peace, contentment, serenity, a healthy mind in a healthy body filled with good spirit and well being or a long, happy, meaningful life. The wisest ones go for a mix of both the tangible and the intangible. You get to choose your very own definition of wealth.

Oftentimes, staying the course and having the wisdom and the patience to use the resources found directly right under our noses and the neurons firing in the brain between our ears offer better odds than seeking out those greener pastures.

As one smart aleck pointed out, the other pasture is always greener simply because it has a gardener that waters, fertilizes and fusses over it all the time. (And used often as a multilevel marketing ploy to recruit people for get-rich quickschemes. But I digress.)

Staying the course and mining your own acres of diamonds could also apply to married couples going through tough times. There are always critical moments that would require partners to fight for their marriage and stay committed

no matter the struggle. There is the struggle of the infidelity of one partner attracted to another, maybe a young spring chicken or a hunk with washboard abs waiting in the wings, the struggle to rise above health issues or the struggle to keep their heads above financial waters or the struggle to stay as a family despite the discord brought about by various debilitating addictions.

Many seem to think they can hit the reset button by trading up to another partner. They think that if they can only find the right one, find Ms. or Mr. Perfect, life would be better. Oftentimes, that route simply leads to more troubles ahead, more complications, more heartaches and crushing disappointments.

If one treasures the intangible acres of diamonds built by years of being together in the form of happy memories and achievements, scrapping the negativity, overlooking irritations or editing out the heartaches through genuine forgiveness brought about by unceasing prayers, perhaps staying the course and loving the one you’re with, might not be too difficult. With faith and determination, you can mine your own acres of diamonds right in your own marriage, right in your own backyard.

The question is, are we mining our own acres of diamonds in every area of our lives right now? And if not, why not? *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Richard Gutierrez: It’s a perfect time...

From Page 4 “I chose to rest, to really step back, to look myself, to look at people around me, what really matters to me, to my family, and I needed that just to re-energize myself.”

He, however, did not deny that for a moment during his hiatus, he felt like showbiz was not for him.

“During those times of being away from the limelight, you also can’t help but to think about if

it’s really the path for me. May mga times na pumapasok sa isip ko, ‘Maybe I could do something else in my life. Maybe I could go somewhere else.’ Hindi mo maiiwasang maisip ‘yun eh while you’re away. But I guess, God has plans and I didn’t expect this.

When this offer landed, I’d be stupid to refuse. So, I’m happy to be here now. I guess, this is the path for me now.”

“La Luna Sangre” is the third installment of the hit fantasy

franchise, after “Lobo” and “Imortal.”

In the series, Richard plays Sandrino, the supreme vampire and long-lost son of Magnus (Jake Roxas).

“Perfect timing ‘yung nangyari. I was on a vacation with my family when I heard the news, so from the moment I got back from that vacation, I had to hit the gym right away. But the timing was perfect. Everything Continued on Page 7

Calendar of Events across

America

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5th annual Kalayaan Parade in Los Angeles’ Historic Filipinotown The 5th Kalayaan Parade in Los Angeles’ Historic Filipinotown will be held on Saturday, June 3, beginning at 9 a.m. to celebrate the 119th Philippine Independence Day. LA Councilmember Mitch O’ Farrell of District 13 will be the guest speaker of the program. The assembly area is in front of the Silverlake Medical Center (SLMC) at Temple Street at 8:00 a.m. The parade starts at 9:00 a.m. and will end at the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) compound. For more information please call Art at (213) 318-9065 or visit www.jfavusa.org.

Kalayaan Incorporated’s Philippine Independence Gala Night in Garden Grove, CA Kalayaan Incorporated Southern California, with the cooperation of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, invites you to its Gala Night in commemoration of the 119th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on Saturday, June 3. It will be held at the Hyatt Regency Orange County (11999 Harbor Blvd. Garden Grove, California 92840). Doors open at 5 p.m. with the program beginning at 6:15 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m.

It is $75 / per ticket (pre-paid). Attire is formal/barong/Filipinana. For more information, please visit https://www.kalayaanincorporatedsocal.com/.

Pista sa Nayon in Vallejo, CA Come and experience the celebration of Philippine Independence Day in Vallejo, California on Saturday, June 3. It will be held at the Vallejo Waterfront from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The festivities will kick-off with a grand parade beginning at the corner of Marin Street and Capitol Street in Vallejo. Then they will continue with non-stop entertainment and ending on two stages at the renowned Vallejo Waterfront. This annual event is one of Vallejo’s largest FREE outdoor festivals that draws crowds wanting to sample Philippine cuisine, soak up Filipino hospitality and enjoy entertainment that crosses all ages, cultures and ethnicities. This year’s entertainment — presented by GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV — will be Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera and Kuh Ledesma, among others. Come and experience the Philippine culture firsthand & bring the whole family! Pista sa Nayon is the highlight of the City of Vallejo’s Philippine Cultural Month celebrated throughout the month of June. Vallejo Pista Sa Nayon will be held at 301 Mare Island Way, Vallejo, California 94590. For more information, please visit http://www.vallejopistasanayon.com/.

Walk for Mom in Teaneck, NJ The Filipino Medical Program invites members of the Filipino-American community to Holy Name Medical Center’s Walk for Mom, a breast cancer awareness walkathon on Saturday, June 3. Participate in a fun-filled celebration including music, snacks, prizes, FREE T-shirts and other exciting events. It will be held at 718 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ (south parking lot), with registration beginning at 9:30 a.m. The walk begins at 10:30 a.m. and is 1.5 miles. Suggested donation is $10. Proceeds fund free mammogram screenings for up to 100 women. For more information, please call (201) 833-3336 or email walkformom@ holyname.org.

JUNE 10

119th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day in Carson, CA The Philippine Independence Day Foundation, Inc. (PIDF), in conjunction with the City of Carson, GMA Life TV, GMA Pinoy TV, GMA News TV, and Tesoro, will celebrate the 119th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day at the Carson Veterans Park (22400 Moneta Street, Carson, CA 90745) on Saturday, June 10. Thousands of people are expected to enjoy the non-stop, day-long event that will be jam-packed with entertainment and activities featuring the rich, beautiful, and spirited Filipino heritage. The eventful day kicks off with a flag raising ceremony at 7:30 a.m., followed by an ecumenical service and a community mass. The parade — to be headed by 119th Philippine Independence Grand Marshal, Consul General Adelio Angelito S. Cruz of the Philippine Consulate General Los Angeles, and to be participated in by a multitude of community organizations and associations from all across Southern California — will be at about 10:00 a.m. This will be followed by the daylong program featuring talented performers from across the South Bay, Southern California, and beyond! The program will be headlined by none other than GMA Network Kapuso’s Primetime Queen Marian Rivera and Primetime King Dingdong Dantes! In addition to the live entertainment, cultural center, food booths, exhibits, vendors, PWC’s Jeepney, chess tournament, and children’s area, there will also be a bone marrow drive for Fil-Am LAPD Officer Matthew Medina. This event would not possible without the leadership of Councilmember Elito M. Santarina, the hard work of our dedicated PIDF Trustees and volunteers, and of course the generosity of our sponsors; Tesoro Refining and Marketing LLC, Waste Management, Carson Companies, KL Fenix, Watson Land, Community Dynamics, IBEW Local 11 &NECA Los Angeles, Nationwide Environmental Services, Brea Canon Oil Co., Inc., Leelin Bakery & Cafe, and Kellogg Garden Products.

For more information or any questions, please email pidf.info@gmail.com.

JUNE 11

Filipino Medical Program hosts community health screening in Passaic, NJ Holy Name Medical Center’s Filipino Medical Program will have a health screening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 11 at the Philippine Independence Day Festival in Passaic, New Jersey. It will be held at 3rd Ward Park, 350 Passaic Ave (cor. Van Houten), Passaic, NJ 07055. For more information, please call the FMP at (201) 833-3355 or email lavarro@ holyname.org.

JUNE 16

Philippine Independence Day Concert & Gala in San Francisco A concert and gala reception will be held at the beautiful and historic Marines’ Memorial Theater in San Francisco on Friday, June 16. The annual Philippine Independence Day Concert & Gala has been a favorite event for Fil-Am political, business, arts, academic and non-profit circles, foreign dignitaries, state and city officials, and a wide cross-section of the Bay Area community. This year’s event will kick-off with a full-length concert at the Marines’ Memorial Theater featuring renowned Filipino music maestro, Ryan Cayabyab with seven of his highly-acclaimed and award-winning vocalists at 7 p.m. The gala reception will follow immediately after the concert at 8 p.m. at the adjacent Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel hall where guests will be welcomed by a beautiful Rigodon de Honor, a Filipino-Spanish quadrille folk dance, to be performed by consular officials and community leaders. Three beautiful ballrooms and reception areas will be open for guests to either sit with friends or mingle with the community. A sumptuous buffet dinner and bar will be served while guests are treated to exciting performances by featured artists.

Finally, a top DJ will be on hand to keep everyone dancing till midnight! Tickets are $125 / person. Marines’ Memorial Theater is located at 609 Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94102.

For more information, please visit www.kalayaansf.com/gala or email gala@kalayaansf.com.

JUNE 17

FASO to hold gala benefit in Los Angeles The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), the only Filipino symphony orchestra outside of the Philippines, will hold “A Night of Symphony,” its first ever gala benefit dinner on Saturday, June 17 at the majestic estate of Hollywood legend Mary Pickford in Hancock Park, Los Angeles. The special evening will honor FASO’s first Excellence in Music awardees and distinguished contributors to the pioneering orchestra’s mission and objectives. The names of the honorees will be announced soon. Filipino chefs who are part of the movement that’s making Pinoy cuisine a worldwide sensation will prepare the sumptuous dinner. The exciting gala, sponsored by Bank of Hope, Pacific Western Bank and Silver Saddle Ranch & Club, will feature two parts. There will be a meet and greet for a limited number of guests, starting at 4:00 p.m., with a guest of honor, the awardees and other distinguished guests. The second part will be the main event – awards program and dinner – which will begin at 5:30 p.m. For inquiries, contact FASO board members Rocio Nuyda, the gala’s chairperson at 818-602-3214 or rocio@msn.com, or Jose Luis Garcia at 310-936-2988 or jl.garcia@aol.com. More details are also available at www.fasogala.org.

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JUNE 2-8, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

6

Josie Natori celebrates 40 years of fashion

Health@Heart

Anti-cervical cancer

to cancer” (like the pre-invasive lesions), according to drug PhiliP S. Chua, manufacturer, Merck & Co.

by Iza IglesIas MD, FaCS, FPCS What is this “new” wonder ManilaTimes.net drug?

The vaccine, which is KNOWN for her exquisite craftsmanship and WHAT is cervical cancer? genetically engineered, is Gardasil, east-meets-west design aesthetic, international Cervical cancer is malignant which blocks infection caused Filipina fashion designer Josie Natori hits another tumor of the cervix (mouth of by two of the more than 100 milestone—her 40th anniversary in the fashion the womb). It is the second most types of human papilloma virus industry. cancer in women and the third (HPV), strains 16 and 18. These For four decades, Natori crossed continents, most common gynecologic two sexually transmitted viruses navigated varying careers, and surpasses countless cancer, the second being cancer are responsible for about 70% obstacles, to create her eponymous global brand of the ovary. The most common of cervical cancers. HPV, in one Natori. gynecologic malignancy is “I have always believed there are no boundaries,” endometrial (inner wall of womb) form or the other, afflicts about 20 million Americans. The other Natori shared during her brand’s fashion event on cancer, which is the fourth most strains of the virus cause painful May 26 at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. common cancer in women. The genital warts, and sometimes, Born Josephina Almeda Cruz, she credits her first being cancer of the breasts, cervical cancers too. Part III entrepreneurial nature to the matriarchal society she followed by colorectal cancer clinical trials in 225,000 women grew up in along with the support of her close-knit and lung cancer. Cervical cancer worldwide are underway Filipino family. develops in women at the mean How good is the study?

“Women are encouraged to be entrepreneurs age of 50 years old, although it Excellent. The final stage here in the Philippines. My grandmother always said can occur in women as young investigation on Gardasil involved ‘Don’t put yourself in a position where you have to as 20. In the Philippines it is the 10,559 sexually active women depend on anyone,” The Natori Company founder For four decades, Josie Natori crossed continents, navigated varying number 2 most common form (ages 16 to 26 in the United shared. careers, and surpasses countless obstacles, to create her eponymous of cancer among women. In the global brand Natori.

The designer further revealed that growing up United States it accounts for least States and in 12 other countries) who did NOT have HPV 16 or 18 in Manila not only instilled in her the motivation 3000 mortality, and globally, Luckily, she took the advice and it became her pass to infection. One half of the subjects to become an entrepreneur but also gave her the about 300,000, annually. enter the business. were given 3 vaccine shots over inspiration for what would become her successful How prevalent is cervical More than three decades later, the company has 6 months, while the other half lingerie collection. Using Asian aesthetic and visual cancer? grown into a lifestyle brand that includes lingerie (control group) received the appeals of both the east and the west, Natori created collections (Josie Natori, Natori, Josie and N Natori), the In the Philippines, there are and launched the now internationally distinguished about 5,000 new cases of cervical placebo (dummy) shots. Among Josie Natori ready-to-wear collection, home, fragrance those who got Gardasil were still hand embroidered Filipino blouse. cancer each year. However, more and eyewear. virus-free after 6 months and none However, the 70-year-old did not always want to alarming than that is the fact “I love my work, but success in fashion is not of them developed cervical cancer be in the fashion industry. In fact, it was never even in enough,” Natori shared. that there are between 10,000 to or precancerous lesions over the 2 her plans.

25,000 women walking around As proof, the world-renowned designer not only year follow-up. Twenty one in the As a child, Natori displayed interest for the (not seen by physician) who busies herself with her brands, she is also part of the control group had precancerous piano, performing a solo concert with the Manila have undiagnosed pre-invasive boards of the Asian Cultural Council, the Orchestra of Philharmonic Orchestra at age 9. Born with an ear for St. Luke’s, the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, lesions in their cervix. If diagnosed lesions and cervical cancers.”

To have 100 percent efficacy is music and eye for art, Natori did not pursue a career Women in Need and the Fashion and Design Council of early, these women could be something that you have very in what came so naturally. Instead, she decided to saved. For every four survivors of the Philippines. challenge herself with a career in business. breasts cancer, there are less than rarely,” Dr. Eliav Barr, Merck’s If that’s not impressive enough, Natori is also a head of clinical development for At the age of 17, Natori left Manila for New York 3 women who survive cervical member of the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designer of where she studied economics at Manhattanville cancer, which shows how virulent Gardasil, told The Associated Press.

America) and the Committee of 200.

How early should the College. Following graduation, she landed at Merrill cervical cancer is.

In 1988, Natori was honored for her achievement vaccine be given?

Lynch—the wealth management division of Bank of with the Galleon award, presented by then President What causes cervical cancer?

Students in grammar school, America—and through hard work and dedication, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV, Corazon Aquino. In 2007, she was given the prestigious middle school and high school became the first female Vice President of investment Lakandula Award from President Gloria Macapagalalso known as genital herpes banking. virus) accounts for most, if not all, should be vaccinated before they Arroyo, considered the highest honor of a Filipino become sexually active, because By 1976, the passionate corporate bigwig found citizen. She also received Fashion Group International’s cervical cancers. At least 50% of once they catch HPV infection, her match when she married Ken Natori, then sexually active men and women prestigious Humanitarian Award. there is no cure; herpes is for life. executive managing director of Smith Barney—a “I want to be able to give something back, to make are infected with genital HPV, This was the recommendation corporation specializing in retail brokerage. especially those with multiple a difference in people’s lives,” she added. of Dr. Gloria Bachmann, director Thereafter, a new role came for Natori with the arrival partners. There are about 20 As such, the designer established facilities in of The Women’s Health Institute of her son Kenneth Jr. million American men and the Philippines to handle 50-percent of all Natori at Robert Wood Johnson By 1977, however, she got bored with her women infected with HPV, many production.

Medical School in Brunswick, corporate position and looked for a new challenge. linked with abnormal pap tests, Indeed, what started as creating lingerie in her NJ., who said this vaccine is a She was eager to start something new. genital warts and cervical cancer. living room floor has evolved into a lifestyle. “phenomenal breakthrough.”

According to the designer, she considered a It is estimated that 10,370 new “Natori is a total concept, a way of life. I just Prophylaxis Gardasil vaccination number of entrepreneurial ventures, but none of happened to start at the back door with lingerie. Now cases of cervical cancers will be comprehensively eliminates HPV them seemed to take off that is until she brought an discovered in 2005. Between half as the company grows, we grow our sensibility too, 16 and 18 associated non-invasive embroidered blouse from the Philippines to a buyer a million to a million Americans taking our concept and making it a whole world. As and invasive cervical cancer. The at Bloomingdale’s—a luxury department store. The have genital warts, transmitted we say, Natori is ‘where life meets art’,” Natori finally vaccine also cuts down infection buyer encouraged her to turn it into a sleep shirt. thru sexual contacts. noted. with HPV 6 and 11, the causes of Is there cure for cervical 90% of genital warts. cancer?

Is Gardasil limited to cervical Better than the cure! A vaccine cancer prevention? that prevents cervical cancer has No. The US Food and Drug just been discovered, and was Administration approved Merck’s found to be “effective 100%, in application for the distribution the short term, at blocking the and sale of Gardasil on June 8, cancer and lesions likely to turn

2006 for ages 9 to 26 for the prevention of cervical cancer and other HPV related diseases.

On September 15, 2008, the US FDA approved the expanded use of Gardasil for the prevention of certain vulvar and vaginal cancers.

This vaccine is in head-to-head competition with a rival (Cervarix) from GlaxoSmithKline, a UK-based company. As the good old cliché goes “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.”

Is Gardasil also used for boys?

Yes, since boys are potential spreader of sexually transmitted diseases, the FDA recommendation includes giving the Gardasil 9 vaccine to boys and young men (ages 9-26) since October 16, 2009. On December 22, 2010, the FDA recommended its use to prevent genital warts and anal cancer.

There are some parents who objected to having their young sons be vaccinated with this vaccine, fearing its potential complication, in spite of clinical evidence showing the vaccine’s medically accepted standard level of safety. This unfortunate controversy has left many of these boys and young men exposed to the these venereal diseases and their potential role as carriers and spreaders of sexually-transmitted illnesses. It is indeed a big waste of billions of dollars and manpower, time, and resources spent in the laboratory experiments and researches that led to the discovery of this wonderful life-saving vaccine that has been clinically proven to be very effective (at least 99.9 percent) in preventing cervical, vulvar, anal, cancers. This is as foolish as the refusal of some people in Pakistan, Nigeria, and even some in the United States to allow their children to get polio vaccine, resulting in the expected outcome. Let us all be proactive and pre-emptive advocates and take advantage of the great stateof-the-art advances in medical science and technology for disease prevention, health, and longevity. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States.

Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

City of Carson awards key to Paranaque mayor

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ON May 25, the City of Carson awarded its prestigious key to Paranaque Mayor Edwin Olivarez during the latter’s visit. Olivarez was welcomed by Carson Mayor Albert Robles and Councilmember

Elito M. Santarina.

True to its motto, “Future Unlimited,” Carson is a growing economy and a culturally diverse community with Filipinos occupying a good percentage

of the population. During his visit, Olivarez and his entourage observed how the city functions, visited departments and facilities, learned about its programs and how these are sustained.

Edwin ‘EJ’ Olivarez, Jr, Councilman Elito M. Santarina, Mayor Albert Robles of Carson, Mayor Edwin Olivarez, Janet Olivarez, Christine Olivarez, Ira Bautista and Pablo Olivarez II

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Shown in picture is Paranaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez (center) being awarded the key to the City of Carson last May 25 by Mayor Albert Robles with Councilmember Elito Santarina.

Liza Soberano: More than 100-percent ready to fly as Darna WHEN news broke that actress Angel Locsin—who once portrayed the iconic heroine through a TV show—has finally bowed out of the role due to her spine injury, entertainment insiders and avid followers began speculating who will fly as Darna in the Star Cinema remake of the classic.

The guessing game finally ended on Tuesday, May 30 when Liza Soberano herself made the announcement.

“Yes, it’s confirmed.

Tinatanggap ko na po ang role na Darna,” the 19-year-old cheerfully told ABS-CBN in an exclusive interview.

“I’m happy and I feel really honored to be able to don the iconic costume and to be able to embody what she represents,” the all-smiling Soberano added.

As the actress is expected to be a strong female figure with a

heart of gold for her countrymen, Soberano will undergo a series of training to achieve Darna’s right mix of grace and fierceness.

“I will undergo functional training, which is working out at the gym to strengthen myself.

And then eventually, I’ll have stunt training, dance workshop for timing and gracefulness kapag gumalaw. And then I think I’ll have acting workshops again, as well as dialogue training,” the young actress shared.

Try as she might to prepare for the role, Soberano cannot take away the nervousness because people are expecting a lot from her. Understandably so as some of the country’s biggest actresses, like Vilma Santos, Sharon Cuneta, Lorna Tolentino, Nanette Medved and Marian Rivera, have worn Darna’s famous costume. (Christina Alpad/ ManilaTimes.net)

JUNE 2-8, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

7

Justin Bieber collaborates with Filipino fashion brand by

Deni Rose BeRnaRDo Philstar.com

CANADIAN singer and songwriter Justin Bieber reportedly likes the designs in his first ever collaboration with a Filipino fashion brand.

Timmy Jacob, merchandising specialist for Filipino-owned fashion label Oxygen, told Philstar.com in an interview that big fashion brands have collaborated with Bieber, but the star, for the first time, agreed to tie-up with a Filipino brand because Oxygen’s style reflects him.

Last year, Oxygen collaborated with Billboard Liza Soberano music. This year marks the brand’s first time to partner with a specific artist, said Jacob.

“Justin Bieber is known as a music and street wear icon and music and street wear are really great ABS-CBN is as a network what make up the Oxygen style and how well they produce their shows and how well they market and the trends that we follow, so it makes perfect sense for us to their artists and how well they collaborate,” Jacob explained. produce their films. I know their The collaboration, he said, capabilities, so it’s time for me to is also a way for Oxygen to be show them what I got and to be known as an international label part of the team that will help expanding in different countries them with their goals.” like Vietnam.

What does he feel about Planning for the competing with GMA and its revival of “Mulawin,” which he and collaboration, according to Jacob, began last year. Oxygen worked Angel Locsin started? closely with Bieber, his team and “I knew this question would MCA Music, the company that somehow come along. I’m carries the artist’s albums, to thankful for what GMA has done come up with around 20 street for me through the years. They wear styles each for men and shaped who I am. But as an women. individual, as an actor, I’m happy Available in an SM Mega where I am today. I’m thankful, Fashion Hall pop-up store and but I’m also looking ahead.” soon in Oxygen boutiques, the For him, no matter what pieces in the collection mirror home network one serves, the Bieber’s personal style – ripped important thing is to always do denim, loose shirts, varsity your best. jackets, caps, drawstring bags “I’m the position wherein I and even fragrances, in mostly can entertain the audience. Sa black and white, with punches of dami ng problema ng Pilipinas, they can escape for 30 minutes to red, gray and blue.

The collection, said Jacob, an hour watching. That’s my goal, was inspired a lot by Bieber’s that’s my purpose. Kung anuman “Purpose” album, as well as song ang pagtanggap, kung sino man ang competitors, I’m just going to lyrics and visuals that went with it. give my best!”

Richard Gutierrez: It’s a perfect time...

From Page 4 fell into place perfectly. I believe that it’s a blessing. I believe that God won’t give me this blessing if He knew I’m not ready.”

According to him, being away from showbiz helped him to be ready and to prepare for his character well.

“An opportunity, an offer like this doesn’t come very often. I’m not going to take it for granted.

I’m going to embrace it and enjoy it and work hard for it!”

His mom and manager, Annabelle Rama, is also very happy and “teary-eyed” of him jumping ship. His mom is a staunch supporter of President Rodrigo Duterte, who is not in good terms with ABS-CBN. Richard and Annabelle declined to comment on how his transfer to ABS-CBN would affect his mom’s relations with the president.

“My whole family is very happy. Actually, napanood nila ‘yung live stream. They’re very supportive and very happy. I’m so blessed to have my family with me all the time.”

He is very thankful for the trust the network has given him.

“At ‘yung pag-welcome nila sa’kin, ang sarap ng feeling. Pati sa set, napakabait nila sa’kin...I couldn’t ask for anything better. I’m very happy for who I am and I’m going to do my best now that I’m here in ABS-CBN.” It is also a plus that his partner, actress Sarah Lahbati, is also with ABS-CBN. “Right now, we all know how

Justin Bieber x Oxygen collection. Philstar.com photos by Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo

The collaboration’s ad campaign was shot by famed Filipino photographer Shaira Luna, who told Philstar.com in an interview that the photos involved a Canadian model and goes by the theme “street.”

“Purpose” is Bieber’s fourth album that includes the hits “Where Are U Now,” “What Do You Mean?,” “Sorry” and “Love Yourself.” The album sold over half a million copies in its first week, the biggest first-week sales for the artist, and debuted at number one in the US Billboard 200. It also took the top spot of music charts in more than 11 countries, including the Philippines.

Written by Bieber with Ed Sheeran and Benny Blanco, “Love Yourself” is the most searched topic in Google in the Philippines in 2016. It was nominated for Best Pop Solo Performance and Song of the Year at the Grammy

Awards.

Last May 26, Bieber’s “Purpose” concert tour has earned him the top spot in concert industry trade publication Pollstar’s “Top 20 Global Concert Tours” list.

Filipino “Beliebers” are still crossing fingers for a concert in Manila soon. It has been six years since the star brought his “My World Tour” to Manila.

Rumor has it that “Biebs” will bring his “Purpose World Tour” in Manila this September but there are no official announcements yet.

If this happens, Jacob hopes Bieber would wear some pieces from the collaboration.

Bieber will join Ariana Grande at a charity concert dubbed “One Love Manchester” in Manchester, England on June 3, two weeks after a bomber killed 22 people at Grande’s concert.

JUNE 2-8, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

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