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Volume 24 - No. 9 • 2 Sections - 16 Pages

March 10-16, 2017 Also published in LOS ANGELES, LAS VEGAS, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, NEw YORk/NEw JERSEY

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Pres.

Duterte threatens to DATELINE USA Pres. Trump releases declare martial law in Mindanao revised travel ban from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

ues to escalate within the region. on thursday, march 9, Duterte told AJPress mindanaoan local chief executives to PhiliPPine President rodrigo take advantage of the police force and Duterte warned local officials in min- military to fight off terrorists. “if you would just insist, after all the danao that he might be forced to declare martial law if violence contin- police forces are at your disposal, and

by Dana

executive order

Iraq removed from the list of banned countries

SioSon

you can ask the military commanders to pitch in for help if needed. Why don’t you just also take advantage?”

Duterte told local authorities during a meeting in Davao City.

Citing violent activities, such as the bombing of a school in Zamboanga

After a federal court shut down his controversial travel ban last month, President Donald trump on monday, march 6 signed a new executive order that will impose a 90day travel ban from six muslim-majority nations: iran, libya, somalia, sudan, syria and Yemen. the much narrower travel ban, executive order 13780, also includes a 120-day suspension of the refugee program, which also will not accept more than 50,000 refugees per year. the obama administration had set the limit at 110,000 per year.

“Under these authorities, i determined

Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, chair of the Commission on Appointments (CA) Committee on Foreign Affairs, shares a discussion with Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. before the committee hearing on the latter’s ad interim appointment on Wednesday, March 8.

Senate photo by Romeo Bugante

CA rejects Yasay appointment as foreign secretary

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Fil-Am co-founder of Snapchat worth $4 billion as company enters stock market Robert “Bobby” Murphy named one of the youngest billionaires in the world

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

WARNING. President Rodrigo Duterte has ruled out peace talks with the communist rebels and declared that the police and the military can now pursue them. During a speech in Davao City on Thursday, March 9, said he would be forced to use “extraordinary powers” if local chief executives in Mindanao would be uncooperative in addressing lawlessness in the region.

Malacañang photo by Toto Lozano

the introduction of the smartphone in the mid-2000s and the genesis of the start-up business culture ushered in a new wave of entrepreneurs who are making billions through technological innovations. one of those billionaires is filipino-American robert “Bobby” murphy, who, along with business partner and best friend evan spiegel, founded snapchat, a popular photo and videosharing social media platform. on thursday, march 2, a little under six years since snapchat first launched, the company entered the new York stock exchange (nYse). According to forbes, murphy and spiegel are now worth about $4 billion each, which is $1 billion more than what facebook valued them in 2013 when it unsuccessfully tried to buy snapchat.

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and grenade attacks in Central mindanao, Duterte took note: “either you help or i will declare martial law tomorrow for mindanao.” he acknowledged that the return of martial law in the country would be PAGE A2

the Philippine Commission on Appointments (CA) rejected on Wednesday, march 8 the nomination of Perfecto Yasay Jr. as the country’s Department of foreign Affairs (DfA) secretary.

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Lascañas admits to killing ‘almost 200’people for death squad

by AJPress AlleGeD Davao Death squad (DDs) leader and retired sPo3 Arturo lascañas has claimed that he killed ‘almost 200’ individuals under the orders of Philippine President rodrigo Duterte, who was then the city’s mayor.

During the hearing of the senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs on monday, march 6, senator Grace Poe asked lascañas about the number of

people he personally killed.

“Kung sa DDs lang po, start with 1989, sabihin nalang natin almost 200 (With the DDS, starting 1989, it’s almost 200),” the former policeman answered. lascañas testified that the DDs was responsible for the deaths of Duterte’s critics, citing part-time radio commentator Davao City director felicisimo Cunanan, Jr., broadcaster Jun Pala, and a certain fred sotto, among others.

Retired SPO3 Arthur Lascañas, the self-proclaimed member of the Davao Death Squad, testifies he recounted that he was paid by at the Senate inquiry headed by Senator Panfilo Lacson on Monday, March 6 at the Plenary Hall Senate photo by Avito Dalan PAGE A2 of the Senate Building in Pasay City.

American TV show slammed for ‘highly Ombudsman charges ex-budget chief Abad, negative’ portrayal of PH president

by ChriStina

PAGE A2 A screenshot of the “Madam Secretary” episode, which will air on Sunday, March 12.

Photo courtesy of CBS

M. oriel anD Dana SioSon AJPress

An upcoming episode of American television series “madam secretary” includes the depiction of a filipino president – and filipino officials in the U.s. and the Philippines are not too pleased with it. the trailer for the episode entitled “Break in Diplomacy” shows fictional Philippine President Datu Andrada (played by Joel de la fuente) clad in a barong and is seen to be making sexual advances toward the lead character, U.s. secretary of state elizabeth mcCord (played by téa leoni), during a private meeting to discuss an Asia-Pacific territory treaty. the meeting’s setting is suggested to be inside malacañang, as several items, such as a Philippine flag and seal of the

office of the President, are shown in the clip. in response to the inappropriate move, mcCord punches Andrada in the face and bloodies his nose. she then tells her husband (played by tim Daly), “i clobbered a world leader instead of saving a major regional agreement.” the episode, which is slated to air on sunday, march 12, has prompted the Philippine embassy in Washington to respond. in a statement dated monday, march 6, the embassy called on CBs Corporation to take “necessary corrective actions,” following a “highly negative depiction” of the supposed Philippine president.

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clears Aquino over DAP

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

the office of ombudsman indicted former Philippine Budget secretary florencio Abad over the implementation of the controversial P72 million Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP). in a statement on tuesday, march 7, ombudsman Conchita Carpio-morales said Abad violated Article 239 of the revised Penal Code or the usurpation of legislative powers by “unlawfully” issuing the national Budget Circular (nBC) no. 541 in 2012. “nBC no. 541 provided the principal bases for the withdrawal of unobligated allotments which were declared as savings and used to fund PAPs (programs, PAGE A2

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march 10-16, 2017 • Oc/IE aSIaN JOUrNaL

From the Front Page

Fil-Am co-founder of Snapchat worth $4 billion...

Murphy, 28, acts as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Snap Inc. (the parent company created in 2016 that includes Snapchat, Spectacles and the Bitmoji app), in charge of the scientific and technology side of the company.

Described as a friendly, laidback guy, Murphy makes the magic happen behind the scenes, authoring the app’s code even to

this day.

Where Murphy is considered the “brains” of the company, Spiegel, 26, is considered the face of the company, akin to Apple’s Steve Jobs and Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg.

“It’s often a case where the other person appreciates the fact that they can be unknown, stay behind the scenes and walk around without being noticed,”

Pres. Duterte threatens to declare...

PAGE A1

a “traumatic” experience, but if the troubles in Mindanao continue to “spin out of control,” Duterte remarked that he will be forced to “exercise extraordinary powers.”

On the same day, Duterte commanded the military to “unleash the weapons of war,” including “jets and rockets,” against the New People’s Army (NPA), following the communist rebels’ ambush attack and execution of four civilians at Pagadian City earlier this week.

Filipino-American Robert “Bobby” Murphy As the president, Duterte maintained that he is “comRyan Jacob of Jacob Asset Manpelled by duty” to protect the agement told the Los Angeles Filipino people.

Times. “Some can’t believe it, “Believe me, I am not happy but believe me, there’s a lot of continuing with this job but people who enjoy that.” since I’m here, it’s not a quesMurphy is the son of a Filipina tion of emotions, it’s a question mother, Rosie L. Go-Murphy, of duty,” he said and Richard Murphy, Jr., who has English, Scottish and Irish descent. Murphy was born in Berkeley, California and attended Catholic school before attending Stanford University, where he PAGE A1 graduated in 2010 with a degree Senator Panfilo Lacson, chairin mathematical and computa- man of the CA foreign affairs tional science. committee, said the 15 members In college, Murphy met Spie- of the committee present in the gel at the Kappa Sigma frater- caucus unanimously voted to renity house and became instant ject Yasay’s ad interim appointfriends. In an interview with ment for being a U.S. citizen and Forbes that both he and Spiegel for not telling the truth before the were not “cool”, so they “tried to Commission. build things to be cool.”

During the first confirmation After a failed attempt at work- hearing on February 22, Yasay ing on a startup called Future denied that he became a U.S. Freshman, a website designed citizen when asked by Occito assist prospective college stu- dental Mindoro Rep. Josephine dents with advice for college, Ramirez-Sato about his citizenSpiegel approached Murphy to ship. create something new. Murphy Under oath, Yasay also claimed was the one who created an im- that he “never held any American age-sharing app in which images passport,” saying that the U.S. disappear after they’ve been government had rendered him viewed called Picaboo; this be- “not qualified to become a U.S. came the foundation for what is citizen” in January 1987. now known as Snapchat.

But in an interview with ANC In just over five years, Snap- on Monday, March 6, Yasay was chat has grown into one of the asked if he never had an Amerimost prominent social media can passport, to which he replied: platforms in the world. As of “I had an American passport, but February 2017, there are about that has already been returned 160 million daily active users on together with my naturalization Snapchat, sending about 2.5 bil- certificate.” lion Snaps every day, surpassing “I do not understand why he Twitter in daily usage. can admit it in a TV station and Murphy maintains a low pro- cannot admit it before this honfile and currently lives in Venice, orable commission,” Sato said.

California just a few blocks away Sato also cited a document from Snapchat’s headquarters. handed by Yasay himself which (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress) shows that he was granted U.S. citizenship on Nov. 26, 1986.

During the second hearing on Wednesday, Yasay admitted that he became a U.S. citizen in 1986.

He apologized for “inadvertently” misleading the commission regarding the status of his citi-

He emphasized that martial law “could be a brutal war just like any other ideological war.”

“Martial law would open the doors of every house there, the arrest of every person, the detention of every person, everyone, anyone. The military and the police would be allowed to just pick you up on the street,” he noted.

Depending on the situation, Duterte said the martial law might “last for 20 days or one year.”

He went on to say, “The problem with martial law is the military and police would be higher than you already in terms of authority and I don’t want to do that so help me. Use the police.”

While the Supreme Court may oppose his martial law declaration, Duterte insisted that “if you go by the rules, regular govern-

ment, nothing will happen.”

“The Supreme Court might not agree with me but you must remember that Congress, a political body, and congressmen there will be forced to face the issue squarely,” he said.

He added, “I’m not saying I will disobey the Supreme Court but I have a limited period to do it, then go to the Supreme Court to explain how it has affected the lives of people in Mindanao.”

Duterte also warned officials to not protect drug personalities.

“Do not protect drug users or you and I will have a problem. I will deprive you of the police,” he said. “I will pull out your supervision and authority over the police, and I will ask the military to go in and impose order, to shoot anyone who defies with violence.”

CA rejects Yasay appointment as... zenship.

“Let me quickly apologize for having inadvertently misled the commission on this matter. It has never been my intention to deceive this commission about this citizenship status. Simply put, I did not lose my status as a Filipino,” he said.

Yasay pointed out that he was referring to a Rappler report when he first denied having a passport.

“When I denied having an American passport, I denied the allegations that came out in media, particularly in Rappler, that I was issued a U.S. passport in 2006 bearing the number that Congresswoman Sato had mentioned, which I do not have any personal knowledge about, and I said that consistently,” Yasay remarked.

Yasay further explained that he said his U.S. citizenship was null and void because the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act “provides that anyone who has preconceived intent to abandon his residency at the time of application is disqualified to that grant.”

The committee decided to reject Yasay’s appointment for “not telling the truth” and for “not being forthright in the question and answer portion of the two hearings,” according to Lacson.

“The best evidence is the records. If records contradict what you are saying even when you’re under oath then your testimony won’t bear weight against the records,” the senator added.

Lacson also took note that the CA’s decision reject to Yasay also showed that the commission “cannot be a rubber stamp of the executive department.”

Yasay is Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s first cabinet official whose appointment was rejected by the Commission.

Based on CA rules, Duterte cannot reappoint Yasay.

“Let this be a reminder to everyone present in this hall that by definition, an oath is a solemn declaration, accompanied by a swearing to God, or a revered person or thing, that one’s statement is true, or that one will be bound to a promise,” Lacson remarked.

The commission earlier warned that Yasay may be held liable for perjury if it is proven that he lied under oath by claiming he was never an American citizen.

Meanwhile, DFA spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Charles Jose assured that that the CA’s decision will not hamper the department’s activities.

DFA appoints new foreign secretary On Thursday, March 9, Duterte appointed Foreign Undersecretary for Policy Enrique Manalo as acting secretary of the DFA. Manalo will hold the position until Duterte appoints a new secretary, according to Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.

“Usec. Manalo is an excellent transition man, and has been on top of many crucial issues together with Atty. Perfecto Yasay,” Abella said in a statement.

Lascañas admits to killing ‘almost 200...

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Duterte up to P50,000 for each killing, depending on the target.

He added that he also received P100,000 a month as an allowance for taking part in the squad’s operations.

“To my understanding, po, is contract killing po ito (to my understanding, it is contract killing),” Lascañas said.

The cop also claimed that Duterte commanded the squad to bomb Davao mosques in 1993 to retaliate the bombing of San Pedro Cathedral, as well as the murder of a dance instructor to avenge Duterte’s sister.

Lascañas’ revelations contradict his former testimony during a Senate probe on the extrajudicial

killings (EJK) last year in which he dismissed the existence of the DDS, saying the claims were mere “media hype.”

His denial came after selfconfessed hitman Edgar Matobato testified last October that Duterte directed the group to carry out the killings in Davao City. Matobato pointed out that Lascañas was the supposed “team leader” of the death squad, which the latter then denied.

Lascañas explained that he previously gave a false testimony under the orders of Sonny Buenaventura to “deny everything.”

The cop added that he fears for the lives of his family.

However, he said he decided

to recant his earlier testimony after experiencing a “spiritual renewal.”

“Hindi ko kayang dalhin sa libingan ko itong dark evil secrets ng buhay (I can’t carry these dark, evil secrets in my grave)… yung utos ni mayor (mayor’s orders)…his campaign against criminality and drugs,” Lascañas remarked.

During the hearing on Monday, Senator Manny Pacquiao moved to cite Lascañas in contempt for latter’s recanting of a previous testimony.

Pacquiao, however, withdrew after Majority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III and Senator Risa Hontiveros objected to his motion.

American TV show slammed for ‘highly...

PAGE A1 The “highly negative portrayal” of the Filipino president not only casts doubt on the respectability of the Office of the Philippine President but also “denigrates the way our nation navigates foreign affairs,” the embassy wrote.

Though the show is a work of fiction, the plot lines tend to draw parallels to current events.

“It is, therefore, inevitable that its depiction of world leaders will have an impact on how its audience views the real personages and the countries they represent,” the statement added.

Leading up to the president election last year, then-candidate Duterte came under fire for joking about the gang-rape of an Australian missionary in the late 80s while he was mayor of Davao City. His remark, loosely translated in English, suggested that he “should have been first.” He was also criticized for catcalling a female journalist and for groping females on the campaign trail.

As president, he has also been vocal about distancing the Philippines from its decades-long alliance with the United States in favor of a more independent foreign policy. He had made a string of anti-U.S. remarks during former President Barack Obama’s term for the administration’s concern for the extrajudicial kill-

ings and human rights violations associated with the Philippine government’s war on drugs.

The embassy’s statement went on to allege that the portrayal “tarnishes the Philippines’ longstanding advocacy for women’s rights and gender equality.”

On the embassy’s Facebook page, some netizens wrote that the depiction was mild compared to the reality.

“If you don’t wanna be embarrassed, then how about not being embarrassing? Have you looked at our president and the things his administration has done to the country? That portrayal was too kind. That complaint was lodged so swiftly. How about complaining against China encroaching on our territories?” one commenter said. “And please do not drag the name of the Filipino people into it as your bargaining chip.

It’s such a transparent attempt to elicit sympathy. Your only real concern here is your need to save face. And that’s just pathetic.”

Another commented, “Um, you do know that our president remains unapologetic for his misogynistic remarks and actions, right? There is no respectability in the office left for the show to tarnish.”

Asked if Duterte found the trailer insulting, Philippine Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said: “Well, they engage

Fictional PH President Datu Andrada Photo courtesy of CBS

in something that they would like to -- It’s their business. It’s their craft. You cannot deny them their craft. Their taste, perhaps.”

He also told reporters on Tuesday, March 7 that the CBS show is “confusing their images.”

“I think they are projecting something that they really would like to say about their own situation,” the spokesperson said.

“Really, I think they should use a fictional U.S. president.”

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Dateline USa

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Pres. Trump releases revised travel ban...

PAGE A1

GIRL POWER. Philippine Military Academy “Salaknib” (Sanggalang ay Lakas at Buhay Na Alay Para sa Kalayaan ng Ibang Bayan) top cadets pose for photograph inside the academy in Baguio City. Eight of the Top 10 in this year’s graduating PMA class are women—a record since the academy began accepting females in 1993. The topnotcher, Cadet First Class Rovi Mairel Martinez from Cabanatuan City ranked first among 167 members of the class of 2017.

Inquirer.net photo by EV Espiritu

Post office branch named in honor of slain Fil-Am San Diego police officer SAN FRANCISCO — A post office in Chula Vista, California was named in honor of a Filipino American San Diego police officer who was shot and killed during a pedestrian stop last summer.

The post office at 830 Kuhn Drive in Chula Vista became the Jonathan “J.D.” De Guzman Post Office Building during a morning ceremony.

Rep. Susan Davis, D-San Diego proposed the name change, and then-President Barack Obama signed it into law.

San Diego Police Chief Shelley Zimmerman told the crowd, San Diego Police Officer Jonathan “JD” De which included the slain officer’s Guzman. SDPD

family members, that De Guzman would be remembered for “the sacrifice he made for our city and for our country and for our community that he loved so dearly,” De Guzman was shot five times on July 28 during a late-night pedestrian stop. His partner, Officer Wade Irwin, also was seriously wounded but was able to return fire, critically wounding their alleged assailant, ex-convict Jesse Michael Gomez.

Gomez, 56, has recovered and remains jailed on $5 million bail while awaiting trial. He could face the death penalty if convicted. (Inquirer.net)

Ombudsman charges ex-budget chief Abad, clears...

PAGE A1 activities, and projects) under the DAP. The issuance of this circular is an act of usurpation. This is contrary to law,” Morales said in a press release.

The Ombudsman also found Abad guilty for simple misconduct with a three-month suspension, which was converted to a fine equivalent to his salary for three months since he already stepped down from his office.

In a statement, Abad said he respects the Ombudsman’s decision but maintained that he never used public funds for his own gain.

Abad also welcomed the dropping of graft, corruption and fund misappropriation charges against him.

“I have always said: although

the DAP was ruled as partly unconstitutional, the Supreme Court itself acknowledged that the program helped boost the country’s economy when it was most needed,” he pointed out.

According to Abad, the Ombudsman’s decision also “affirmed the truth” that he “did not personally benefit from implementing the DAP.” “I am consulting my legal advisers on the appropriate course of action following this development. As always, I look forward to the quick and fair resolution of this matter,” he added.

In October 2011, then-President Benigno Aquino III approved the DAP proposed by Abad.

The DAP, which aims to “fasttrack public spending and push economic growth by prioritizing

high-impact budgetary programs and projects,” was later declared partly unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2014.

The Ombudsman, however, dismissed the administrative charges against Aquino for lack of jurisdiction.

But Rep. Carlos Zarate of Bayan Muna, one of the DAP complainants, remarked that it is “highly unacceptable” to spare Aquino when his very signature appears on the DAP memorandum.

Zarate said such decision “is wanting for failing to indict the former president, who was ultimately responsible for DAP.” The administrative charges against former Budget Undersecretary Mario Relampagos, meanwhile, was also dropped due to lack of merit.

that, for a brief period of 90 days, while existing screening and vetting procedures were under review, the entry into the United States of certain [individuals] from the seven identified countries — each afflicted by terrorism in a manner that compromised the ability of the United States to rely on normal decision-making procedures about travel to the United States — would be detrimental to the interests of the United States,” read the executive order, which was released on Monday.

Notably, Iraq was removed as one of the previously-banned countries, the executive order calling the country a “special case,” acknowledging the Islamic State’s (IS) influence in the region but trusting the “cooperative relationship” between U.S. military forces and the Iraqi government.

“Nevertheless, the close cooperative relationship between the United States and the democratically elected Iraqi government, the strong United States diplomatic presence in Iraq, the significant presence of United States forces in Iraq, and Iraq’s commitment to combat ISIS justify different treatment for Iraq,” the order read.

The original travel ban affected all immigrants — including permanent residents of the U.S. — from the banned countries. The revised order exempts those who currently hold visas and those who held visas at the time the first ban was imposed.

As it stands the ban only applies to “foreign nationals of the designated countries who are outside the United States on the effective date of this order, did not have a valid visa at 5:00 p.m., eastern standard time on January 27, 2017 and do not have a valid visa on the effective date of this order.”

Another change in the revised order states that allows current visa holders who would’ve been affected by the previous order to apply for waivers. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals found the previous ban unconstitutional because it violated the right to due process; in other words, the ban didn’t give sufficient time for those affected by the ban to respond or seek legal assistance.

The administration argues that this executive order — called “Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States” — will effectively keep out individuals who may pose a threat to the country.

However, critics argue that the statistics don’t support the claims the administration is

making regarding the supposed national security risk of refugees and individuals from these nations.

As the Asian Journal previously reported, a recent study by bipartisan think tank New America showed that 84 percent jihadist terrorist attacks that transpired on American soil compared to those of non-residents and individuals of unknown statuses, who comprise 16 percent of all jihadist terrorist attacks.

Former 2016 presidential hopeful Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) expressed his contempt for the travel ban — which has been commonly referred to as a “Muslim ban” — in a statement released on Monday, calling the order “racist” and ineffective in maintaining national security.

“This ban is a racist and antiIslamic attempt to divide us up. A president who respected our traditions of religious freedom would not have resorted to hateful, anti-Islamic rhetoric to justify a ban on travel from six mostly Muslim countries,” Sanders wrote. “This isn’t about keeping America safe. A president responsible for keeping our citizens safe would not hand over ideological ammunition to terrorists seeking new recruits to kill Americans.”

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) also condemned the travel ban for wrongly targeting “the most vulnerable and voiceless in our society — refugees and immigrants.”

“Make no mistake: this ban does not keep us safe,” Harris wrote in an email urging her supporters to co-sponsor a bill she authored to guarantee legal assistance for refugees targeted by the Trump administration.

“It puts American lives at risk while isolating the Muslim community at a time when we need to address the threat of homegrown extremism,” she added.

“No matter the changes, this executive action remains immoral and fundamentally unAmerican.”

The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) released a statement expressing its solidarity with Fil-Am organizations and leaders across the country.

“Diversity is the cornerstone of democracy,” said Brendan Flores, NaFFAA National Chairman. “We reaffirm our commitment to creating dialogue and serving as a voice for the Filipino American community on key policy issues. In light of the new executive order, NaFFAA will continue to work with Filipino American leaders across the country to raise awareness around our community’s immi-

grant and legal rights.”

Following the original order, NaFFAA’s National Council for Government Relations and Legislative Affairs has been engaging with Filipino American leaders and closely monitoring policy changes. As a result, NaFFAA has committed to hosting “Know Your Rights” Immigration Forums to raise awareness around immigrant rights and legal services for the community.

“Despite minor changes to the ban, the executive order will continue to have an adverse impact on immigrant communities,” said NaFFAA Executive Director Jason Tengco. “NaFFAA embraces the contributions of immigrants, and speaks out against the Administration’s anti-Muslim and anti-refugee rhetoric. Rather than excluding others, we should strive to promote a vision of our country that fosters and welcomes diversity at all levels.”

Legal and civil rights organization Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles (Advancing Justice - LA), which has been strongly against Trump’s immigration policies, denounced the order.

“The latest executive order is just as dangerous and unconstitutional as the administration’s first attempt at implementing a Muslim ban,” Christopher Lapinig, Skadden Fellow at Advancing Justice - LA, told the Asian Journal. “After federal courts across the country roundly rejected the first travel ban, the administration has made small tweaks to the ban’s provisions, hoping that this iteration will survive judicial review. I am hopeful that the courts will see through this ruse and strike down the new order as illegal.”

However, the Trump administration affirms its stance that the executive order is necessary for the nation’s security.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson believes that the ban “will bolster the security of the United States and her allies.”

“To our allies and partners around the world: Please understand this order is part of our ongoing efforts to eliminate vulnerabilities that radical Islamist terrorists can and will exploit for destructive ends,” Tillerson said in a speech on Monday. “The State Department will coordinate with other federal agencies and implement these temporary restrictions in an orderly manner. Our embassies and consulates around the world will play an important role in making sure our nation is as secure it can be.” (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

Duterte holds a meeting with former House Speaker Jose De Venecia and Pangasinan Rep. Gina De Venecia

President Rodrigo Duterte poses for a photo with former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. and Pangasinan 4th District Representative Gina de Venecia during a meeting at the Study Room in Malacañan Palace on March 7, 2017.

Duterte listens to Gina and Jose de Venecia Jr. during a meeting at the Study Room.

Presidential photo by Toto Lozano Duterte poses for a photo with Jose de Venecia Jr.

Duterte holds a meeting with House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, and Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III at the Orchid Room. Presidential photos by Richard Madelo

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Dateline PhiliPPines

PH House passes death penalty bill during final reading

by Dana

M. sioson

AJPress

THE Philippine House of Representatives approved the bill which seeks the reimposition of the death penalty in the country on its third and final reading on Tuesday, March 7.

With 217 affirmative and 54 negative votes, the majority approved House Bill 4727, or the measure restoring capital punishment for crimes related to illegal drugs.

There was only one abstention, which came from Cebu Representative Rodrigo Abellanosa.

Though recognizing the independence of the legislative branch, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte questioned why rape and plunder were excluded in the list of crimes punishable by death during the second reading of the bill last week.

Duterte noted that rape is still one of the most heinous crimes that should merit the heaviest penalty.

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez responded by saying that another bill for rape and plunder could be filed after the present bill — which focuses on drug-related crimes — becomes law.

In the revised and approved version of the bill, crimes punishable by death include the following: importation of dangerous drugs and/or controlled precursors and essential chemicals; sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution and transportation of dangerous drugs and/or controlled precursor and essential chemicals; and maintenance of a den, dive or resort where any dangerous drug is used or sold in any form.

Also included were: manufacturing dangerous drugs and/or controlled precursors and essential chemical; qualifying aggravating circumstances in the commission of a crime by an offender under the influence of dangerous drugs; criminal liability of a public officer or employee for misappropriation, misapplication or failure to account for the confiscated, seized and/or surrendered dangerous drugs; and criminal liability for planting evidence.

Among the modes of capital punishment were hanging, firing squad, and lethal injection.

The approved bill, however, states that capital punishment will not be imposed on convicted individuals below 18 or more than 70 years of age at the time the crime was committed.

Palace welcomes, CBCP laments bill approval MalacaĂąang on Tuesday welcomed the House’s passage of the death penalty bill, which it said, “underlines the Duterte administration’s goal to reduce illegal drug-related criminality.â€?

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella remarked that the death penalty’s “strong deterrent effects� can “protect innocent lives.�

Abella’s statement added that the bill’s “punitive aspect� ensures that criminals “recompense grievous loss.�

MalacaĂąang also expressed its hope that the Senate would also approve the death penalty next, “considering that it is a vital tool in the Duterte administration’s war on drugs and criminality.â€?

On the other hand, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) lamented that Con-

gress “has given its consent for the State to kill.�

CBCP president and LingayenDagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas also called on to the “Catholic lawyers, judges and jurists to allow the gentleness of the Gospel of Life to illumine their reading and application of the law, so that their service to society as teachers and agents of the law and of justice may bring life.� “We, your bishops, are overcome with grief but we are not defeated nor shall we be silenced,�

Villegas added.

Pangilinan vows to stop bill at Senate In a statement, Liberal Party (LP) President and Senator Francis “Kiko� Pangilinan maintained that death penalty is “cruel, degrading, and inhuman.� “We commit to stopping the death penalty in the Senate,� Pangilinan said.

Apart from Pangilinan, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Senators Benigno Paolo “Bam� Aquino IV and Leila de Lima were among the LP senators who have previously expressed opposition to the death penalty bill. “We are saddened that the minority in the House was not given the chance to debate the bill in full.

Without the benefit of a full debate, we are now in the dark as to the compelling reasons that merit a constitutional return of the death penalty,� Pangilinan said.

Others who also openly stated their opposition to the death penalty bill were Senate Majority Leader Ralph Recto, Akbayan Representative Sen. Risa Hontiveros, and Senators Francis “Chiz�

Escudero, Richard Gordon and Antonio Trillanes IV.

Chamber of Mines asserts Lopez unfit to head DENR

by Louise

Maureen Philstar.com

siMeon

MANILA — The country’s mining industry stood firm in its decision to oppose the confirmation of Environment Secretary Gina Lopez, a first time for the sector, maintaining that she remains to be unfit and unqualified for the post.

The Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) said it has made an exception and chose to not support the appointee of the president for the first time. “We are dealing with someone who does not believe in the Constitution’s mandate for the state to undertake the exploration, development, and utilization of natural resources, and as such, has put us, government’s partners in minerals development, at a quandary,� the chamber said.

During the confirmation hearing of Lopez Thursday, March 9, COMP Legal and Policy Vice President Ronald Recidoro said Lopez is painting the mining industry as an “environmental rapist� that just take what they want and leave nothing but suffering and destruction.

Referring to the law, he emphasized that Lopez has a duty to enforce the Mining Act and her non-implementation, particularly on the issuance, monitoring and regulation of contracts should be a ground for her non-confirmation. “It appears that she does not know the law,� Recidoro said.

Furthermore, the industry noted that the secretary-designate bypassed legal and administrative processes and disregarded the essence of contracts when she ordered the closure of 23 mines, suspension of five others and the cancellation of 75 government-pri-

DENR Sec. Gina Lopez supervises the setting up of a model depicting the mining operations in the country in preparation for her CA hearing.

Philstar.com photo by Marvin Sy

vate sector mining agreements. “Her bias against mining leaves her unable to appreciate the mechanics of the Mining Act. Lopez is oblivious to the fact that the first ones to suffer from the closures will be the miners and the small businesses working with these mines. She has no real plan to address these impacts other than the promise of a ‘green economy’ that will take years to implement,� Recidoro said.

The chamber also emphasized that Lopez’s actions are exposing the government to massive financial liability from international arbitration, which would eventually be shouldered by the country’s taxpayers. “She is tarnishing the country’s image as an investment destination for public-private partnership contracts. Canceling such contracts without due process and changing the rules in the middle of the game frightens away potential investors,� COMP said.

The industry iterated that while it occupies only 0.2 percent of the country’s land area, it has contributed significantly to the countryside development.

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“We act as provider to our host communities that government services cannot reach. Yet, Lopez has not done anything to stop the operation of thousands of illegal miners who are the biggest destroyers of the environment,� the chamber said.

Moreover, stakeholders maintained that mining is not the current issue, but whether or not Lopez is the right person to head the DENR. “We deserve experienced and qualified leadership from the DENR to effectively harness the country’s natural resources. Lopez simply does not have these qualities,� the chamber claimed. “Her bias against mining and her blatant disregard for government procedures and processes make her unfit and unqualified to be DENR secretary. Her extreme ideology and environmental fanaticism will only cause a mess that will hurt many and benefit no one,� it added.

Aside from the chamber, members of the academe and some indigenous people and members of the mining communities also opposed Lopez’s confirmation.

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OpiniOn

Features

Exonerated

DESPITE her predicament, a defiant Senator Leila De Lima denounced the recent move by government prosecutors to prohibit all parties from discussing the senator’s cases in public.

“I refuse to be gagged. Gagging me would be a violation of my rights. They cannot continue violating my rights. I shall continue to speak up on issues that matter,” De Lima said in a handwritten letter from her detention cell.

De Lima was thrown behind bars at the Philippine National Police (PNP) Custodial Center in Camp Crame for her alleged violation of several provisions of the Comprehensive Dangerous Act of 2002 for the narcotics trade inside the New Bilibid Prison (NBP). The former justice secretary is accused of receiving money from drug lords who had been conducting drug trafficking at the national penitentiary.

Believing these are dubious charges as a plot to silence critics of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, De Lima vowed that not even a gag order can silence her.

“Such reinforces my belief that the things being done to me, especially my detention, are primarily aimed at stifling my criticisms against this murderous and vindictive President. I repeat—I cannot be silenced,” she added.

As soon as she took a stand against the alleged rising cases of extra-judicial killings in the country, De Lima put a target on her back. She knew it—that being jailed for it was the ultimate price she had to pay.

“While I’m psychologically prepared for this, my whole being cries out for truth and justice. My heart also bleeds for all other victims of injusticethose who were falsely accused and now cramped in severely congested jails,” De Lima said in an earlier letter she wrote to her family, De Lima reached out to her loved ones and supporters.

The embattled senator has amassed political enemies since she was assigned as justice secretary in the previous administration. Now that they have managed to put her behind bars, others are resurfacing as if to add another nail in her coffin.

On Monday, March 6, Janet Lim-Napoles, the mastermind behind the multibillion Philippine Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel scam, accused De Lima of attempting to extort money from her in exchange for not re-opening the serious illegal detention case she was facing.

Napoles maintained that she never detained her

Editorial

second cousin and former right-hand man Benhur Luy, the government’s star witness in the pork scam cases.

Napoles is currently detained at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City while facing multiple plunder and graft cases in connection with her alleged involvement in the pork bar-

ManilaTimes.net photo

rel scam.

They say the truth will set anyone free. Will De Lima’s “truth” afford her the constitutional freedom she deserves or will it bury her with further legal consequences? To help preserve the structure our constitution, let us allow due process to take its course. (AJPress)

Trump accuses Obama of wiretapping him during the election without any evidence: Another conspiracy theory to deflect issues?

AMID the growing support for a bipartisan and independent investigation to find out if there was/ is collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign before, during and after the 2016 presidential elections, President Donald Trump woke up on the early morning of Saturday, March 4 to fire a barrage of tweets to accuse his predecessor, President Barack Obama, of wiretapping his phone in the Trump Tower.

Trump tweeted at 6:35 a.m. EST: “Terrible!

Just found out that Obama had my ‘wires tapped’ in Trump Tower just before the victory. Nothing found. This is McCarthyism!”

At 7:04 a.m. EST, he followed with this bombastic tweet: “How low has President Obama gone to tap my phones during the very sacred election process.

This is Nixon/Watergate. Bad (or sick) guy!”

Even his own cabinet and White House staff were blindsided by these tweets, unable to explain any basis for these toxic accusations against Pres.

Obama. Sources from the White House, however, revealed that they had not seen Trump be this angry and frustrated following the releases of news reports exposing more of people in Trump camp who had met with the top Russian Ambassador secretly, before, during and after the election. Those individuals include National Security Adviser Michael

Flynn who has resigned; his Attorney General Jeff Sessions (one The Fil-Am of Trump’s surrogates during the campaign) who lied under oath Perspective about his two meetings with the Russian Ambassador; his own son-in-law and senior adviser, Jared Kushner, among others.

All of the recent exposes were Gel SantoS-reloS deemed to have grabbed the headlines from what Trump thought was his victorious moment delivering a “Presidential” speech to the joint session of Congress on February 28.

Press Secretary Sean Spicer and other White House staff had been defending the president, saying that there should be a congressional investigation on this wiretapping as the Russian alleged interference in the U.S. election was being investigated, even though they themselves could not substantiate Trump’s accusations against Obama.

The media, Democrats, and even some moderate Republicans have been demanding for the president’s basis before any taxpayer-funded investigations are done, especially in the light of FBI Director James Comey asking the Department of Justice to publicly reject Trump’s allegations that Obama ordered then President-elect Trump to be

wiretapped, and U.S. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes saying he had seen no evidence to support Trump’s allegations.

Obama’s former spokesperson Josh Earnest likewise refuted Trump’s claim, arguing that the president has no authority to unilaterally order wiretapping of any private citizen. The courts, however, may give such order if there is probable cause that such private citizen may be involved in a crime.

Trump reportedly got the information of such alleged wiretapping by Obama from the alt-right Breitbart News, yet he did not consult the FBI and U.S. intelligence about this.

If there is indeed real evidence to back up his accusations against Obama, why wouldn’t Trump release it? His tweets declaratively state that such wiretapping, in fact, happened, but where is his proof? As political experts explain, Trump is the president and he has the authority to declassify records to prove his allegations so long as the declassification of such record would not compromise national security.

Could this be another chapter of Trump’s grow-

ing list of conspiracy theories which had not been substantiated and proven to be true? He had started the “birther” conspiracy theory that Obama was not born in Hawaii but in Kenya and was therefore not eligible to be President of the United States.

He stated as a fact that there was massive cheating during the 2016 election and that about 3 million “illegals,” voted which would explain why he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton.

Trump also said he believes Obama has been orchestrating all the protest rallies against him to deligitimize his presidency. He had also been spreading the accusation that mainstream news media that are critical of him and his policies are “fake news” and are out there to undermine his Presidency, etc.

COULD IT ALSO BE that this is Trump’s clever scheming ploy to deflect the focus on the alleged Russia-Trump camp collusion, which is now under investigation, and to rally his base and keep their loyalty by once again making the narrative against the first black president of the United States? *** 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

Unsolicited advice to the Duterte trolls IN January 2017, The New Republic, a Street liberal US magazine, ran an article by jour- Talk nalist Sean Williams entitled, “Rodrigo Duterte’s Army of Online Trolls”: “Since Rodrigo GreG B. MacaBenta Duterte was elected president of the Philippines last June, he has waged a brutal crackdown on drug dealers and addicts. Nearly 4,000 people have been killed by government forces…Duterte’s authoritarian rhetoric has elicited sharp condemnations from human rights advocates and foreign leaders. But there’s another front in his war on drugs that has escaped international attention.”

This front, according to Williams, is manned by “a vast and effective ‘keyboard army’ that Duterte and his backers have mobilized to silence dissenters and create the illusion that he enjoys widespread public support.”

Williams added: “Each day, hundreds of thousands of supporters—both paid and unpaid—take to social media to proselytize Duterte’s deadly gospel.

They rotate through topics like corruption, drug abuse, and U.S. interference, and post links to hastily cobbled-together, hyper-partisan web sites at all hours of the day and night.”

Williams mentioned Nic Gabunada, social media manager of the Duterte presidential campaign, as the key man behind the online propaganda effort. In an interview with Rappler in June last year, Gabunada spoke freely about his role, but in a deservedly positive vein, mainly because of the significant contribution that his group’s work had made to the success of Duterte’s candidacy.

It is in this context that I would like

to offer this unsolicited advice to whoever is now masterminding the activities of the army of trolls, as well as the Chief Communicator of the Duterte government.

To set the issue in perspective, I think that their efforts may have already become counter-productive, at worst, or have not been “positively productive”, at best.

I am using the term “positively productive” advisedly because they might be of the belief that this army of online guerillas has been delivering “positive results” in the sense of overwhelming the opposition, intimidating critics and institutionalizing The Fear of Duterte among the citizenry.

But creating enemies and an instilling an atmosphere of fear does nothing for Duterte’s legacy. At the end of his term, do they really want Duterte to be remembered as The Butcher, and little else?

On a recent trip to Manila, I had occasion to talk to a friend who was one of the creative brain trusts of the Duterte presidential campaign, Greg Garcia, retired chairman and chief creative director of the ad agency, Hemisphere-Leo Buernett. Greg is now the chairman of the Bases Conversion and Devclopment Authority (BCDA).

BCDA, as described in official literature, is the “government instrumentality mandated to transform former US military bases into alternative productive civilian use.” This refers, specifically to Clark Air Force Base and Subic Bay Naval Base, although the BCDA’s scope of authority and operations has been expanded to include facilities of

the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The facilities over which the BCDA has management oversight and authority are the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, the Clark Freeport Zone, the Clark Tourism and Business Complex, the John Hay Special Economic Zone, the Poro Point Freeport Zone, the Atmanda Eco Park in Morong Bataan and Fort Bonifacio and Villamor Airbase, sections of which are now more impressively known as Bonifacio Global City and Newport City, respectively.

It was during the incumbency of President Corazon Aquino that the BCDA was established by virtue of Republic Act 7227, following the closure of Clark Field and Subic as US military bases. Throughout the tenure of Aquino and Presidents Fidel V. Ramos, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Benigno Aquino III, the BCDA has undertaken its mandate at a relatively steady pace.

The most dramatic and impressive conversion was that of the Subic Bay Naval Base into the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, administered by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, chaired by now-Senator Dick Gordon. This was during the Ramos presidency. What made it dramatic was the fact that Subic was taken over by the Philippine government in the wake of the devastation caused by the Mt. Pinatubo eruption, and the heroic efforts of Gordon and a corps of volunteers to literally rebuild it, like the Phoenix, from the ashes.

The Clark Field conversion was undertaken with much less fanfare, although this facility may have suffered the brunt of the volcanic catastrophe.

During the tenure of Arroyo, the development of Clark went into full throttle and the airfield became known as the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, with plans for using it as an alter-

native to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. But the achievements were overshadowed by Arroyo’s continuing struggle with accusations of massive corruption in her government, On the other hand, Gordon was not only a visionary and a dynamic manager, he was also a super salesman. He thus generated a great deal of awareness and support for Subic.

In the course of my conversation with Greg Garcia in Manila, he enthusiastically described an ambitious and impressive development program for the BCDA properties. Even while he knew me to be a relatively harsh critic of the Duterte administration, Greg offered to make a presentation to me of the government’s plans for BCDA. Just as enthusiastically, I accepted the offer. I also promised to write about the plans in a positive light. Unfortunately, the demise of an elder brother and an overseas trip of Greg prevented the presentation. But I still hope that it can be scheduled on my next trip to Manila.

But whether or not I write about BCDA and what it plans to deliver to the country, I am confident that Greg will be more than capable of getting the positive word out. After all, he is one of the most accomplished practitioners in the advertising and communications industry.

The point I’m making is that there must be other developments in the Duterte government that one can feel upbeat about, aside from the BCDA. I understand that there are certain cabinet heads and bureau chiefs who are performing excellently. They certainly deserve to be portrayed in the most enthusiastic and positive manner to the public, and not just in the Philippines but overseas, as well.

Social media, with its international reach and coverage, would be the per-

fect vehicle for delivering the message that President Rodrigo Duterte isn’t just a mass murderer – that he is a visionary and a doer, a president who produces concrete benefits for his people, a leader who delivers on what he promises and one who can motivate the bureaucracy into doing their job for the public good.

Indeed, the Filipino is easy to please.

Concrete results, when promised and delivered, have a tremendous impact on a government’s image. I recall how then Philippine National Police Director General Ping Lacson captured the imagination of the country after he instilled discipline among policemen and virtually put a stop to their petty extortion activities. People were so impressed, they considered Lacson fit to be president.

I also recall how Louie Morales, another ad industry friend and colleague, posted on Facebook a photo of his newly-acquired plastic driver’s license (no longer just paper). There was genuine joy on his face. After six years of the Aquino administration where car plates and licenses were more difficult to secure than a visa to the US, Louie had reason to feel good.

This is where Duterte’s army of trolls can be put to effective and truly productive use. Properly guided by a knowledgeable communications manager and supported by what Gabunada refers to as online “influencers,” these trolls can build a legacy for Duterte and his government worth being proud of.

The only caveat is that the trolls and Duterte’s propagandists should resist the temptation to exaggerate and overpromise – a cardinal sin that most politicians seem to be guilty of.

That caveat applies to President Duterte, as well. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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

ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board

CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President

ELIZABETH HILARIO SISON Chief Financial Officer

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Jon Jon Briones, Rachelle Ann Go achieve their American Dream as ‘Miss Saigon’ marks its return on Broadway

By MoMar

G. Visaya

across the globe to shine. the four lead cast members It is that season again, the most of the West End revival of the awaited among theater fans in New musical—Eva Noblezada as Kim, Alistair Brammer as Chris, Rachelle York City.

Ann Go as Gigi and Jon Jon Briones Broadway musicals and plays as the Engineer—are all making are opening left and right. Some, their Broadway debuts. like “Sunset Boulevard” featuring “to be doing our Broadway Glenn Close and “Hello, Dolly” with debut together is special. they Bette Midler, are returning to the are my family and they are special Great White Way after decades.

Others, like “Sunday in the Park with to me,” said Eva Noblezada when we asked her about what “Miss George” featuring Jake Gyllenhaal, Saigon’s” Broadway run meant for are some of the more recent her. revivals.

“We’re all quite giddy Filipino fans are excited to welcome the return of “Miss Saigon,” backstage. Everyone’s encouraging towards each other, really loving a well-loved and award-winning musical that has become a stepping and supportive and we also know how to have a good laugh, which stone for many Filipino talents AJPress

Outside Broadway Theater

is important in a show like this,” she added, describing the company.

For Jon Jon, it is all about the realization of his American dream, as reflected by a rousing and showstopping number in the musical led by his character, the Engineer.

“Excited is an understatement,” Briones declared as he, along with the musical’s fans has begun counting down the days leading up to their first performance.

“Lahat ng ginawa ko from 1986 when I started doing theater (in the Philippines) and growing up in one of the poor areas in Manila… if someone told me then, ‘You’re going to be on Broadway someday’, I would go, ‘Yeah, right!’, You know, it is unbelievable,” Briones shared.

AJPress photos by Momar G. Visaya

“this, being here and looking back to where I came from is mindboggling, I’m freaking out.” the day before our interviews with the cast was the company’s first day of tech rehearsals.

“It was my first time to be on a Broadway stage and I was a little teary-eyed,” Jon Jon admitted.

He Facetimed his wife Megan Jon Jon Briones (who was in Los Angeles) so he can walk through the stage door with her.

“She is a part of this journey,” he added. “the show has been such a blessing.” the couple met through a “Miss Saigon” production in Germany where she was playing Ellen. Both their kids were born in England when he was doing “Miss Saigon” there. this “engineer” on Broadway was almost an engineer—Jon Jon was only 18 units away from his Electrical Engineering degree when Cameron Mackintosh went to the Philippines to conduct auditions.

Jon Jon gave them his headshots and resume.

Miraculously, he said, he got through.

“I got in and I said to my dad, Eva Noblezada I can’t finish it. Of course, he was torn apart. there are horrible things disappointed but eventually, when and there are wonderful things the show went to the Philippines, that come out of that. It’s real life he was able to watch me perform and this is exactly what this show is and that was a very good way to all about,” Briones said. “It is about convince him,” he reminisced. showing somebody’s strength Still Relevant and resolve and love. this is about More than two decades since love. It’s not just black and white. an unknown Lea Salonga broke Everyone wants something and through with her award-winning they want to achieve it.” performance as Kim, the story of “Get ready to cry, get ready to “Miss Saigon” is still relevant to the laugh. We’re ready,” said Eva, and current times. echoing what Jon Jon Jon talked “We still have a lot of wars and because of these wars, we have a lot about. “the show’s message still of casualties and a lot of families are resonates with people because

2

Rachelle Ann Go

Alistair Brammer

there are still conflicts.”.

Asked about how much pressure she has put on herself as she makes her Broadway debut, Eva responded quickly.

“I try not to put too much pressure because I kind of did that in London and you learn from your mistakes. No one’s going to be perfect and no one’s confident all the time, it’s fine, it’s normal,” she said.

As in the previous productions, Filipinos dominate the cast Continued on Page 3

3 Anne Curtis’‘singer’ opinion on ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ finals Jon Jon Briones, Rachelle Ann Go achieve... march 10-16, 2017

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by Deni Rose BeRnaRDo Philstar.com

From Page 2

members of this Broadway revival.

This one is no exception.

“And that makes me proud as an Asian, proud as a Filipino to bring pride to the country,” Briones said.

“It’s funny that Filipinos think that the musical ‘Miss saigon’ belongs to them because a lot of us started it, and even in different countries, majority of the cast members are Filipinos. That’s a source of pride.”

From West End to Broadway Filipina singer Rachelle Ann Go, who is playing the role of Gigi, Actress, TV host and “singer” Anne Curtis performing in “It’s Showtime.” dropped by the Philippine Center Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Christopher Toledo IV on sunday, Feb. 8 to invite the community to watch the musical Though Anne was joking weekend. Anne serves as main when it opens on March 23. about the “singer” part, she host for the segment together More than 150 community reiterated, “May platinum kaya with Vice Ganda and Amy Perezleaders across the states covered ako!”

Castillo. by the Philippine Consulate gathered for the 3rd annual Filipino Community General Assembly and Go was invited to speak. my producer [they]should try it “I didn’t have to think twice,” years as an exclusive talent with by iza iglesias out first and then we’ll see after Rachelle Ann said. “Basta para sa only a “verbal agreement” for ManilaTimes.net what will happen. After that, I can mga kababayan, I will do it.” representation by Tony Tuviera’s already reveal [our next plans].”

In a previous interview, she told WHETHER you’ve missed her APT Entertainment and TAPE, Asked what the program us how performing on Broadway or not, Kris Aquino is making her producers of “Eat Bulaga.” format is, Aquino shared, “It’s a became one of her dreams when TV comeback very soon with a “It will air on March 26 two-hour special. My idea is that she travelled to New York for a one-shot special. immediately after ‘Kapuso Mo, I’ve shown you so much of the concert with her fellow singing At an endorsement launch for Jessica soho’ so I hope Jessica Philippines already on Kris TV (her champions in the Philippines. non-surgical facelift procedure won’t go overtime,” the everlast show on ABs-CBN) but there “I remember, I was right in the Ultherapy on March 8, the verbose Aquino quipped. “My are still so many places left for me middle of Times square and I said, erstwhile Queen of All Media producer already paid for the to show you. ‘someday, I will live here and I will revealed she will have a block airtime,” she added. “so this time around, we’re work here!’” she shared. “And now it timer titled “Trip Ni Kris” on GMA “There’s a lot to look forward focusing on Nueva Ecija because is happening, it is a dream of mine.”

Network. to, [but]this is a one shot deal. besides this place being the rice On their first day of tech Aquino left ABs-CBN after 20 The airtime is expensive so I told granary of the Philippines, we rehearsals at the Broadway Theatre, don’t realize that there are so she admits she cried as she entered many beautiful places there, like the playhouse. the Minalungao National Park. It “Pagpasok ko, sabi ko, totoo ba has limestone formation and its ito? I had goosebumps. I went on river runs 75 kilometers. super stage and looked around. I was beautiful and it’s super clean! overwhelmed with feelings. Thank Because of NLEX and sCTEX, it’s you, Lord,” Rachelle Ann said. only two and a half hours to three she reminisced and looked hours away from Metro Manila—a back at her journey to Broadway beautiful sight.” as she shared why she was at Aquino further talked about first hesitant to go through the visiting an organic farm, where auditions back in 2012. while feeding the free range Despite the negative thoughts chickens she had an accident. A of not being good enough or what metal fence fell on her left foot. if she committed a mistake or “It was difficult to keep that she was not trained to do it, walking but I didn’t stop going Rachelle Ann soldiered on and went around because the cameras through the process. were rolling. But we had to pack Then she got the part, and with up immediately as soon as we it came another round of hesitation.

The actress–host will have a special block timer on GMA Network. finished.” she was told by some people As a recording star with a soldout concert at the Big Dome, Anne Curtis shares her “expert” opinion on the looming conclusion of a hit singing competition.

“Being the singer, there are times I disagree with the judges,” the “It’s showtime” host recently declared in a press conference for “Tawag ng Tanghalan” (TNT) finals.

“I have favorites na nanghihinayang ako (because they did not make it to the finals), pero we speak with the rest of the nation when it comes to judging the contestants.”

TNT, ABs-CBN’s first singing competition revived by “It’s showtime” last year, will culminate with its first grand finals this

Kris Aquino returns to TV on March 26

Jon Jon Briones (The Engineer) and Eva Noblezada (Kim) during one of the first rehearsals in preparation for the previews and the March 23 opening.

Rehearsal photo by Matthew Murphy

that if she left, “wala na akong (career na) babalikan sa Pilipinas”.

“At the end of the day, I asked myself, ‘should I listen to those people or should I follow my dream?’ I have always wanted to challenge myself and do something else aside from doing pop music,” she shared.

Rachelle Ann prayed about it for a while and one morning, she said she felt like God was telling her to do it and she felt at peace.

And this was how “Miss saigon” changed her life, in ways she could not have imagined.

Moving to London made her mature more and made doing eight shows as week made her realize what else she can do with her voice. As a new thespian, she was learning the ropes as she went along, picking up nuggets of wisdom from the veterans along the way.

Then she joined the cast of West End’s “Les Miserables” as Fantine, and now, she’s on Broadway, joining a stellar cast for “Miss saigon. “ Meet the cast Fil-Am Devin Ilaw, who will be playing the role of Thuy, did not believe at first that he got the part.

“It took a while,” Devin told us. “Now, it’s all about the joy and pride of being in this cast.”

The first time he saw “Miss saigon” was on Broadway back when Lea returned.

“That was probably 1999, 2000 and I was in middle school. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine

to be here, on the same stage, in the same show! It blows my mind,” he said.

Katie Rose Clarke, this production’s Ellen, shares a similar story.

“I was there watching this show some 17 years ago,” she said, pointing at an area by the rear mezzanine. “And now I’m here. I am so excited to tell Ellen’s story, she is a beautiful, strong and selfless character. I grew up wanting to play Kim, which will never happen to me.

The actress previously played the role of Hannah in the musical Allegiance.

“I don’t know, it is a funny coincidence. Is it weird that I have done the white girl in two Asian shows in a row? It’s kinda my thing now, I’m cool with it,” she said.

For Alistair Brammer, reprising his role as Chris, it is all about pressing the reset button.

“It’s like start all over again and forget what I did in London. There are elements that are the same but with a new cast, a lot of it will be different,” he said.

A keen observer, Alistair noticed something with his Filipino cast-mates both in London and here in New York.

“I find them to be very polite and reserved, kind of like how I am. so we get along well,” he shared, although they haven’t fed him with Filipino food yet. “I would love to try Filipino food!”

I guess we’ll leave that to the Pinoy New York cast members.

4

Direk Joel relives hometown characters of his youth A date come true with Maine Mendoza march 10-16, 2017

www.asianjournal.com

How does it feel to have dinner with your showbiz idol?

Twenty fans of TV and online phenom Maine Mendoza know the kind of thrill it brings as they had a date of a lifetime with the new 22-year old.

Held a few days before Mendoza’s birthday March 3, the company behind CDo Funtastyk Young Pork Tocino, which she endorses, hosted an intimate sit-down dinner for the celebrity and her fans at fine dining FrenchMediterranean restaurant Lemuria in New Manila, Quezon City.

Coming from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, the lucky 20 won the “Funtastyk Dares” contest, which the meat company mounted on its Facebook page.

It was indeed a night of fun and celebration for Mendoza and her fans who enjoyed a sumptuous full-course meal, which also included an innovative tocino dish made with pineapple, brie and shallots.

by PabLo

a. Tariman Philstar.com

ForMer sexy dancer and internet personality Mocha Uson’s Twitter account was suspended Thursday morning, March 9.

Uson, who commands a following of president Duterte’s supporters she calls DDS or die-hard Duterte supporters, on Facebook, held a Twitter Party on wednesday, March 8 with the hashtag #DDSTwitterParty.

“Ang karamihan po kasi ng mga International Media ay nasa TwITTer. Kaya mahalaga na tayo ay magkaroon din ng Twitter account (Most international media organization are on Twitter, so it is important that we also have a Twitter account),” Uson wrote in a Facebook post earlier.

“Alam ko po na mas maganda dito sa Facebook ngunit kung siryoso tayo protektahan ang ating Pangulo, mag sakripisyo tayo at mag open din po ng TwITTer (I know Facebook is better, but if we are serious in protecting our president, we should sacrifice and set

AFTer almost 27 years in showbiz, direk Joel Lamangan has touched almost any subject under the sun.

In the last two years, he megged a well-received monumental film about a religious leader and on the other hand, he has to deal with the wattpad generation hooked on bestselling romantic novels and in a recent output, he churned out another well-received romantic comedy.

Maine Mendoza shares dinner with her fans at an upscale French restaurant a few days But in reality, the director’s before her birthday. heart belongs to subjects way the star was made to feel just as The winners were given below the social ladder or better special when her fans surprised a chance to spend time and known as a group belonging to her with a birthday cake and interact with the very charming “nasa laylayan ng lipunan.” song.

Yaya Dub as they talked about For now, he is probably dying Touched, the star said, “when to touch the life of Mary Jane their respective dares. Mendoza I really get to know and bond made her supporters at ease as Veloso now languishing in an with you, yon talaga ang love ko! Indonesian island jail. she praised their online works Hindi ko talaga ipagpapalit itong and thanked them for their Indeed, who can forget “The moment na ito.” (ManilaTimes. unwavering support.

Flor Contemplacion Story” and net) Before the evening ended, the “Sarah Balabagan Story?”

In his latest project Bhoy Intsik, direk Joel is back to familiar subjects and even more familiar surroundings.

Hindi pwedeng pinatahimik His location shoots are in tayo tapos hindi na tayo lalaban. a cemetery in his native Cavite Mabagsik, mabangis ang mga where he grew up knowing the troll ni Leni (We need to fight. Just exploits of the true-to-life “Bhoy because they silenced us doesn’t Intsik” who would steal from the mean we will not fight. Leni’s trolls rich to share the loot with the are fierce and relentless),” said poor.

Uson.

Direk Joel admits the subject After the suspension of is akin to the exploits of robin Uson’s account, the hashtag Hood but his film focuses more #MochaUsonIsoverParty became on the personas and what makes the top trending topic in the them unique as cinema subjects.

Philippines.

Playing the title role is The former sex guru’s account raymond Francisco who is is back on Thursday afternoon. better known as the Puccini According to Twitter, the heroine in M. Butterfly with the late Behn Cervantes playing the Former sexy dancer and internet personality common reasons for suspending Mocha Uson’s Twitter account was suspended an account include spam, account ambassador.

Thursday morning, March 9. security is at risk or abusive tweets Direk Joel knows the distinct or behavior from the user. up a Twitter account).” advantage when two stage Uson, a staunch supporter Thousands of users used the veterans work as leading man hashtag, including those critical of of Duterte and appointed as and director.

Uson and included other hashtags. Movie and Television review He cites the common and Classification Board board

By Thursday morning, Uson’s language stage actors are familiar member, has been criticizing Vice Twitter account was suspended. with and the similar obsession President Leni robredo and the She went live after to criticize with which they try to reach out Liberal Party. supporters of the Liberal Party, to the audience. “In the theater, She refers to robredo as “fake who she claimed was responsible you tell the actor to project to the VP” and believes robredo is behind last man in the audience in the for reporting her account. the plot to oust Duterte.

“Kailangan lumaban tayo. last row. But on film, you didn’t

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Mocha Uson trends, gets suspended on Twitter

by Leif

Sykioco Philstar.com

Direk Joel Lamangan with lead stars of Bhoy Intsik Raymond Francisco and Ronwaldo Martin. Stage actors share a common language.

have to exert too much effort because the camera will do the job for you. But that doesn’t mean it will be easy. You have to minimize movements, you have to act as though the camera is your audience and within that instrument, you have to deliver your message and project the art of acting.”

He has something to say for those people who think an acting workshop can make one a great actor. “The acting workshop helps the beginner and further hones the veteran actor. In that sense, a workshop is a must, especially when you are preparing for a role. But it is not everything. A bad actor can’t be helped by workshops.

Sometimes, an instinct for acting is better than the thoroughly studied ones. Because to me, acting is not performing. It is just being yourself and being honest and having the right attitude.” on the subject, raymond finds direk Joel the perfect actor’s director. “Since he has extensive experience both in theater and on film, he knows what will work for the character and how they can enhance the story.”

In terms of acting experience, raymond and co-actor ronwaldo Martin are virtual contrasts. He is working with someone who hasn’t known

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theater and whose acting credits are just starting.

In situations like this, direk Joel enjoys the job of getting a good character contrast while getting the best from the individual actor.

After some 27 years in showbiz, direk Joel knows that the learning process for the director never stops. “where I came from, there is no school that taught me how to direct.

I observed directors on how they deal with me as an actor.

You just have to absorb a lot to get the right nuances, the right approach and the right balance of temperaments.”

But then the story of “Bhoy Intsik” might as well be his favorite subject as it deals with the perennial rejects of society.

Because deep in his heart, his sympathy goes to those who have nothing. He likes characters who like to survive and learn to live by the skin of their teeth.

It is when characters like this appear in stories that his artistic reserve finds real challenge.

“I grew up learning how small people like ‘Bhoy Intsik’ live.

He is a familiar character in my hometown. He has long moved on but his story lives. I really hope my film will be another venue on which I can re-live tales from my youth and childhood.”

5

13th annual Santacruzan, Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels Colon cancer rising among young people march 10-16, 2017

www.asianjournal.com

The Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles invites you to its 13th Annual Santacruzan on Saturday, May 13, 2017, 2:45 pm at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555 W. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. There will be free retreat for key participants, presentation of “Sagalas” – young girls and

women comprising the Court of honor for the Procession of the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, eucharistic Celebration, Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Flower Offering, and a Procession accompanied by a “Banda Musiko”. The theme of the celebration: “Mary, Full of Grace, Virgin of Mercy!” The celebration is capped with a

Dinner-Dance (by tickets) at Casa Italiana, 1051 N. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Flyers/Application forms for participation at: https://drive. google.com/open?id=0B0dk8 YIDYyIUOFRpZzNmaDB6Vm8.

Contact: Florie Pimentel (818) 641-8690, fpimentel08@gmail. com; eric Cordeta (310) 9305443, epcordeta@juno.com.

the history of the Philippines would have been different.”

What is colon cancer?

Colon (large intestines) and rectum (reservoir for feces) are the terminal parts of the digestive system. Cancer of the colon and PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS rectum, or colo-rectal cancer, is the rapid uncontrolled growth WhILe colon cancer rates have of abnormal and very aggressive cells that multiply without order, been going down among the causing a tumor that is malignant elderly (55 and older) since the 1980s, they are increasing among to destroy organs around it.

The cancerous cells travel those in their 20s and 30s. This (metastasize) through the blood was the recent alarming finding and lymph channels to distant of a U.S. cancer registry, which parts of the body, like the liver, reviewed nearly half a million bones, brain, etc., ultimately killing color-rectal cancers diagnosed this her new found diet. its victim. between 1974 and 2013. It was “No carbs for me,” declares How prevalent is colon published in the Journal of the Bea. “For weeks now, I have not cancer?

National Cancer Institute and in tasted even a bit of fast food. Pag the March 1, 2017 issue of the New Colorectal cancer ranks the nasa car nga kami and my mom second most leading cancer england Journal of Medicine. and my sister eat fried chicken deaths (51,370 a year) for both The research shows that for from a fast food store, I envy men and women in the USA, with colon cancers, a rate increase of them especially when I smell it!

2.4 percent annually was noted for about 142,570 patients diagnosed I’m thankful that I can control annually. It claims more lives than those in their 20s and 1.0 percent myself. I’m not tempted to eat AIDS and breast cancer combined. among those in their 30s. For with them. Wala, I just make In the Philippines, at least 8,000 rectal cancers, the yearly increase myself busy with other things new cases of colorectal cancer are was even higher at 3.2 percent. like checking my social media diagnosed yearly, “and steadily In general, the study also found account. increasing,” according to the that there was an increase in the It’s all career for Bea right rate among adults in their 40s and Philippine Cancer Society. now, and decided not to be Are meat-eaters more prone early 50s, but not as bad. involved in a relationship yet. to colorectal cancer?

This report revealed an “I’m just enjoying my life and I It appears to be so, because alarming retrogression in our don’t miss being in a relationship. battle against colorectal cancers: colorectal cancer is found more I realized I’m still young to be prevalent in populations that “that young adults’ colorectal so involved already. Besides, cancer risk is now similar to that of low-fiber diets that are high in with all the things happening animal proteins, fats, and refined adults born around 1890.” in my career, I don’t have time carbohydrates. The incidence of The investigators pointed out to entertain suitors. I’m happy colorectal cancer and other forms that high obesity rates the past taping for “Tsuperhero” and I several decades “may play a role in of cancers is indeed high among have to give a lot of time to my this generation. Obesity increases those who eat red meat (pork, training for “Mulawin Versus beef, etc.) compared to those the risk for all types of cancers Ravena.” ‘Yun pa lang, ubos na who regularly eat high-fiber diets and cardiovascular diseases, like oras ko,” the 19-year-old averred. high blood pressure, heart attack, (vegetables, fruits, wheat, bran, All the same, Bea considers etc. and fish, instead of red meat. stroke, and diabetes.”

Derrick Monasterio as the man What are the signs and The authors suggest: closest to his heart these days. symptoms of colorectal cancer?

“Adherence to guideline“Pero hindi kami,” she quickly The person may not have recommended screening initiation added. “We’re very close because should be emphasized and symptoms at all. It could be so we’re really very good friends. subtle, like fatigue and anemia. initiation before age 50 years We’re always together in our Blood in the stool (black or bloody should be reconsidered.” projects like ‘Tsuperhero’ and red stools) is one common sign.

When CBS World News ‘Mulawin.’ We talk a lot and we’re The others include the change announced on February 11, 2009 so comfortable with each other. in bowel habits, diarrhea or that “Philippine Icon Cory Aquino Walang ligawan. Maybe that’s constipation, stools more slender has Colon Cancer,” we wrote that why we can talk about anything or flatter than usual, stomach “if President Cory’s cancer was at hindi kami nagkaka-ilangan.” discomfort, bloating, fullness, diagnosed early through the even in their training, Bea abdominal cramps, frequent recommended screening, she gas pains, unexplained weight Continued on Page 6 would have been alive today and

Bea Binene gets curvy in all the right places

by Lhar Santiago ManilaTimes.net

NOW that she is getting such good projects, Bea Binene is determined more than ever to be slimmer. She has already lost 13 pounds, which is

evident via her new body curves.

All the same, the actress believes she still has to lose some more.

She went back to wushu training not only to attain her goal but for easier movement in fight scenes for the upcoming GMA Network telefantasya “Mulawin Versus Ravena.”

She landed a big role in the project together with Derrick Monasterio.

“The routine we do is not easy. During the first day of training, we were taught the proper form, the right stance in a fight scene.

The following day, it was already sword fighting that we had to learn.

May footwork na, may tumbling na.”

And it doesn’t stop there. They were asked to report again for another training, this time, on flying.

“Mahirap siya, masakit sa upper thighs but I enjoy the flying.

While I was doing the training, I felt I was really flying because I couldn’t see the cables tied to me.

I was jut swinging. I even tried tumbling while I was swinging,” Bea excitedly told Showbuzz.

Bea has also made going to the gym part of her regular routine, add to

Health@Heart

loss, a sensation that the rectum does not empty completely. Not all these symptoms and signs need to be present, or necessary, to suspect possible presence colorectal cancer. Any one of these, if persistent, should alert one to seek medical help.

When should colonoscopy be done?

Looking at your stools every time you defecate is fundamental.

If there is a change in the color, consistency, and shape of your stools, or if you see red blood in your stools, or if is black, report this to your physician, since blood in the stools is one of the earliest signs of colon cancer, no matter how young. he/she may order a test for occult blood even if the color of your stool is normal, which is recommended annually for those 50 and older, together with flexible fiber-optic colonoscopy every three to five years. These are life-saving test and procedures, great gifts of medical science, which each of us should take advantage of. If colon cancer is in the family history, screening must be done even before 40.

How can we prevent cancer?

Cancer, in general, is caused, in almost all cases, by what we eat and drink, what we breathe in, what we apply to our body, what we expose ourselves to in our environment, by our personal behavior, and to some extent by our individual genetic predisposition. As far as our genes are concerned, we did not choose them, but we can choose to protect our DNA from harm every day of our life through healthy lifestyle and behavior. here are some basic guides: (1) Minimize or avoid eating red meat. Instead, have a regular diet of fish, lots of vegetables, nuts, whole grains, some fruits, and partake rice, bread, and other carbohydrates in moderation.

For those who are overweight, abstaining from rice, soft drinks, cakes, ice cream, and other sweets is the most effective method in preventing obesity, which is a risk factor for cancer. Soft drinks are Continued on Page 6

march 10-16, 2017 www.asianjournal.com

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA (Continued from last week...)

I have discovered gardening to be a quiet, solitary pursuit somewhat fit for hermits and loners — unglamorous, unexciting, backbreaking, time consuming, manual, icky, down in the dirt labor that was certainly not meant for immediate gratification.

So, why do it at all? I don’t really know. Must be borderline idiocy.

Of course, I speak only for myself.

For one thing, it teaches you the patience of Job and the virtue of humility. I have failed more than succeeded and am still working on it. But as time passed, I have been encouraged by modest results.

I became synchronized with the seasons and their gentle nuances.

I took baby steps and was off and running at one point I could call most plants by name these days and seem to instinctively know what to do when a problem arises. If things don’t work on my own accord, I seek help. I still am a failure with azaleas. azaleas have been dying on my shift so I am staying away from them. I suspect it has something to do with the amount of light and too much water that has drenched the soil because of an unusually wetter, longer winter season.

I said goodbye too to a beautiful sago palm that must have suffered root rot. Farewell too to a French lavender bush that gave me so much fragrance. The garden gets a lot of shade being in a Northwest orientation so I am quite alright with the fact that I will never have roses which I would love to have but can’t. Believe me, I tried. So I just admire them in my neighbors’ gardens with a

Tweaking the lessons learned from the garden

From Page 5

Problem Solved Atty. Kelly o’Reilly

IMMIGraTION policy and enforcement continues to evolve undergoing a large shift and uncertainty abounds.

Undocumented immigrants fear -Claude Monet, speaking of his garden At Giverny ICe knocking at their door and those with lawful immigration long term. southeast orientation. status, but who are not yet U.S. The irony of it all is that the My journey to self-discovery citizens, are also uncertain. more I know, the more I realize has been made easier by Concern is understandable, how little I know. I guess that is the and in times like this it is of understanding the process of paradox of all lifelong learning. I nature, the seasons and the the utmost importance that now appreciate more clearly the nature of things: of why a seed no you have the highest level of delicate balance on which our matter how good cannot grow legal representation in your planet depends for it to sustain in a certain type of soil; or how immigration matters. We hope life — of how vastly critical it is for this brief article alleviates some a young tree cannot grow in the everyone to do their part to ensure of those concerns. shadow of a mighty oak; or of how that life continues, specially that of much light a plant needs to burst There are some things that human life. with flowers, of the impeccable everyone should know who But I do reject the rabid, timing and the cycle of the is currently faced with this unhinged proponents of climate seasons that are in God’s perfect uncertainty. change (global warming, global divine order like a well rehearsed If someone inside the U.S. cooling) whose real agenda is a dance or a Beethoven symphony; is faced with losing their status. political and economic windfall of why you must resist moving There are usually options for its billionaire backers. It is sheer available to fight to remain a plant from a place where it is hubris and madness to pretend to here. There are many different growing so well to another place usurp the laws of nature to push a defenses available, including simply to satisfy a whim or a feng duplicitous agenda. shui decorating principle; when cancellation of removal, asylum, One can see life’s longing for and where to prune, of knowing and family-based immigration itself in the perennial grass that when to water by sticking a finger petitions. however, there may grows. There is great wisdom in the soil or noting the droop of only be a small window to in gardening. If you dig in the the leaves; or the merits of clay request these benefits once a garden long enough, you will find person is faced with deportation pots and plastic pots; of when to an infinite variety of the parallel re-pot or top dress; even how to so time is of the essence. laws that govern all life with propagate.

Consequently, it is important unsurpassed clarity. Gardening, if The most important lesson to quickly have someone you stick with it long enough, is a perhaps is learning when to leave competent representing you or metaphor for human life itself. well enough alone and letting go; your loved ones who can take Gardening has taught me a of accepting death as part of life. immediate action. This may be zen-like passive skill of enjoying I make it a point to take pictures in the form of communicating quiet solitude, of observing what when the flowers are in full bloom, directly with immigration works and what won’t, of doing knowing that no matter how officials simply to gather what needs to get done with very additional information, or filing pretty they are, their beauty is little struggle and ultimately, of fleeting. accepting and of simply letting go I am left with images and when all I have done is all I can do. memories just like the photos *** on the wall and in the albums From Page 5 recording one’s family life. Once Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP all hazardous to health as they the children leave to be on their of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send increase the risk for Metabolic own, you hope the memories in comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ Syndrome.

(2) Do daily physical those photos sustain you for the asianjournalinc.com exercises, which is a magic bullet against diabetes, heart attack, stroke, alzheimer’s, and even cancer. They also improve stamina, and find him there working out. maganda doon. Before I knew it, agility, mental health, and even after gym, there would be times sexual performance. (3) Take daily he was already enrolled in the when we would go out to eat gym. There are days when he multivitamins and minerals if not or hang out. We’re that close would call me para ayain akong eating properly, but avoid megabut hanggang du’n lang,” Bea mag-gym and there are days doses as they are toxic to the assured. when I would come to the gym body. (4) Listen to your body, and

“My garden is my most beautiful masterpiece”

Bea Binene gets curvy in all the... and Derrick complement each other. They now go to the sane gym.

“It’s actually my gym,” said Bea. “Sinabi ko sa kanya na

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The importance of having a qualified immigration attorney in these uncertain times a stay request with the court. attorneys with the knowledge and experience will be able to prepare things quickly, know who to contact, and be ready to move forward when needed. additionally, a great immigration attorney will be able to recognize what options are available to you to fight your case and present the strongest application possible.

While this may sound rather basic, it’s complicated.

Not long ago someone came into our office who was facing deportation and he wanted a second opinion because he had doubts about his attorney at the time. he was a permanent resident and the other attorney had attempted to file for cancellation of removal.

Unfortunately, a criminal conviction from his past made that impossible. When faced with opposition in court that he was not actually eligible, his attorney said there was nothing else to do and the judge had given him a few more months to present any other relief.

When he came to see us we were able to determine that not only was the previous attorney was incorrect in her initial assertion that he was eligible for cancellation of removal, but that he did have other relief available to him through what is called a “standalone 212h waiver.” This relief was something that the other purported immigration attorney had never ever heard of.

We were able to file this application with the immigration judge and present a very strong case on his behalf. Ultimately, he was allowed to keep his permanent residency and remain in the U.S. with his children. had he not decided to seek out a second opinion, it is likely that he would have lost his residency and been deported from the U.S. having the right immigration attorney could be the difference in obtaining legal status and deportation. While not every case may have a solution, if that solution exists we will find it. The attorneys at Wilner & O’reilly have years of experience handling the most complicated immigration cases. With former immigration officers, lawyers who clerked at the Immigration Court and board certified specialists on our team, we have the knowledge and experience to ensure a positive outcome in your case. Contact us right away to receive a free consultation. ***

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.

Colon cancer rising among young... consult your physician promptly for any health concerns, and do not put off any recommended laboratory tests and procedures, like stool exam, colonoscopy, etc., since early detection can save lives. (5) Stay away from tobacco and from secondhand smoke, which is even more toxic. (6) If you enjoy alcoholic drinks, imbibe in moderation, preferably with dinner; excess alcohol increases the risk for cancer, burns the liver and cooks the brain. (7) Overall,

live and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. *** 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

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