San Francisco Edition -- December 18 -- 24, 2015

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

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Volume 14 - No. 51 • 3 Sections – 22 Pages

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AMID DUTERTE-ROXAS WORD WAR

USA

DATELINE Willy Gaa, envoy and statesman passes away FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Fil-Am community mourns death of veteran diplomat

FORMER Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy Gaa died last Wednesday, Dec. 9 of lung cancer at the age of 69.

The Filipino community in New York is saddened by the news.

“Ambassador Gaa was known in the Foreign Service for his level-headed insight-

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Supreme Court hears historic case on affirmative action

=MI1 G? gi\j`[\ek dljk Y\ Ênfic[$ZcXjjË slapping match, a fistfight and a gun duel.

Asked about his advice to presiden“THE Philippine president must be tial hopefuls, Ramos on Dec. 16 said the country’s next top leader should world-class.”

Thus said former president Fidel V. be competitive not only nationally but Ramos when asked about his thoughts also globally.

“My advice is very simple. Act like a on the ongoing heated exchange between presidential aspirants Davao Philippine president that must be very City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and Lib- competitive nationally. Ikukumpara eral Party standard-bearer Mar Rox- ka sa ibang pangulo ng Pilipinas (You as, which had led to challenges to a will be compared to other Philippine

by YUJI

VINCENT GONZALES Inquirer.net

presidents),” Ramos said during the “Pandesal forum” at the Kamuning Bakery Cafe in Quezon City.

“We’re no longer in the period of Antonio Luna and Andres Bonifacio.

Ang magkakasama hindi nagpapatayan, kundi nagbubuklod para iangat ang bayan nating Pilipinas (Those who are together do not kill each other but unite to move our country, the Philippines, forward),” he added.

Stressing the importance of being

united in one goal, Ramos said the serious problems hounding the Philippines like poverty would not be solved by slapping.

“We should be one Philippine team.

That’s the way to compete. You can’t go up in the world if we are fragmented as we are now,” Ramos said.

“We must look beyond this generation. ‘Yan ang hangarin ng mga leader, ‘yan ang ambisyon ng Pilipi-

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Supreme Court upholds ‘No Bio, No Boto’ policy for lack of merit 3M may not vote in 2016

by JOMAR

CANLAS ManilaTimes.net

Asian Americans will benefit, experts say

THE nation’s highest court has been debating at a landmark case regarding US affirmative action in college admissions.

The Supreme Court appeared sharply divided last week, as conservatives, including Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., believe that using affirmative action in admission decisions is “unneeded and unconstitutional,” reported the Los Angeles Times.

“What unique perspective does a minority

THE Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday, Dec. 16, dismissed for lack of merit a petition against the “No Bio, No Boto” policy of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the May 9, 2016 elections.

The petition assailing the policy was filed by Kabataan party-list Rep. James Mark Terry Ridon and several others, mostly youth and student leaders.

The ruling was announced by SC spokesman Theodore Te. “Wherefore, the petition is dismissed due to lack of merit. The temporary restraining order issued by this Court on December 1, 2015 is consequently dissolved. So ordered,” Te said as he read the dispositive portion of the ruling, which was penned by Justice Estela Perlas-Bernabe.

Comelec data show a total of 3,059,601 registered voters remained without biometrics as of September

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Gov. Brown’s Appointments Secretary demystifies Marcos says process in becoming governor’s appointee BBL is dead

of becoming a governor’s appointee is like, to which she says: “You have to apply. I applied. It EVERY year, more than 2,700 took me three times to do the apappointments are made to vari- plication but I did. I applied.” ous boards and commissions in During a community forum at the State of California, each of UC Riverside on Thursday, Dec. whom have to go through Califor- 10, Pasquil demystified the pronia Gov. Jerry Brown’s Appoint- cedure involved in serving in ments Secretary, Mona Pasquil. a board or commission under Pasquil, a Filipino-American Brown’s administration. who has served in her current “If you have the passion to 9LCC<K =FLE; 8K G8JJ<E><IËJ 98>>8>< 8K E8@8 K<ID@E8C *% 8 Ylcc\k `j ]fle[ `e k_\ YX^^X^\ role since 2011, said she has of- want to serve, and you want to f] I\p JXcX[f# X gXjj\e^\i Yfle[ ]fi :X^XpXe [\ Fif :`kp Xk k_\ E8@8 K\id`eXc * cXjk Efm% +# ten been asked what the process learn, and you want to ask quesby AGNES

CONSTANTE AJPress

tions, and you want to think about making some change, this is the administration … to do that with,” she said.

In addition to filling out an application, applicants will be subject to a background check and follow up with provided references. Pasquil also said making a personal case in the application as to why one wants to be an appointee can help improve chances of becoming one, as this

MANILA – Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., chairman of the Senate committee on local government, claimed Tuesday, December 15, that the controversial Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) would not be passed during the term of President Aquino because the Senate and House have not finished deliberations.

“We might pass it during the next administration because we really have no more time,” Mar-

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DOJ probes ‘tanim-bala’ racket at NAIA

by TETCH

TORRES-TUPAS Inquirer.net

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has started its probe into the criminal complaint filed against six airport personnel allegedly involved in the tanimbala (bullet planting) racket at the Ninoy Aquino International

Airport (NAIA).

Prosecutor General Claro Arellano said the complaint filed by American missionary Lane Michael White and his stepmother Eloisa Zoleta has been assigned to DOJ’s Task Force NAIA headed by Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Theodore Villanueva.

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Supreme Court upholds ‘No Bio, No… G8>< 8( t

30 — the registration deadline set by the poll body — and thus stand to lose their right to vote.

The Comelec lauded the decision.

Its chairman, Andres Bautista, said they are happy with the ruling, noting that the High Court considered their position in implementing provisions of Republic Act (RA) 10367 or the biometrics law.

“We are, of course, very pleased that the SC saw it our way. This will enable us to proceed with the finalization of the list of voters and project of precincts,” he noted in a text message.

Malacanang also welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision.

“We note the resolution of the Supreme Court dismissing the petition filed against the Comelec’s ‘No Bio No Boto’ policy,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement.

Coloma added that it is now

up to the Comelec “to ensure that preparations for the holding of the May 2016 elections are in place in accordance with its timetable.”

“We leave it to the Comelec’s best judgment, as an independent constitutional body, on how to proceed in the light of the Supreme Court ruling,” he said.

Malacañang earlier rejected the possibility of postponing the elections, citing the constitutional requirement of holding the polls on the second Monday of May. Ridon described the SC’s decision as puzzling, considering that the court earlier ruled to grant their petition for a temporary restraining order.

“The facts and law of the case had not changed in two weeks. It is unfortunate that the exaggerated doomsday scenario foisted by the Comelec had worked on the Supreme Court,” he said.

The petitioners, in contesting the legality of the deactivation of the registration of voters without

biometrics, have asked the SC to enjoin the implementation of the provisions of RA 10367 or the Mandatory Biometrics Law and nullify Comelec Resolutions 9721, 9863 and 10013, which are all related to the deactivation of voter registration records in the May 9, 2016 national and local elections.

The petitioners noted that despite the Comelec’s “No Bio, No Boto” campaign, official data from the poll body showed that only 3,599,906 registered voters have undergone the mandatory biometrics validation procedure as of September 30.

In disposing of the constitutional challenge to RA 7 and the Comelec resolutions, the SC distinguished between the concept of “qualification” as far as suffrage is concerned and the concept of “registration” where the latter is jurisprudentially regarded as only the means by which a person’s qualifications to vote is determined.

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nas (That’s what leaders aim for, that the ambition of the Philippines)—to have a better future for everyone,” he added. u G8>< 8* The word war between Duterte and Roxas started when the tough-talking mayor claimed that the administration bet did not actually graduate from the prestigious Wharton School. Roxas retortd by daring Duterte to slap him if he can prove his Wharton degree was indeed a “myth” and that he would engage him in a slapping match. Roxas later on said that slapping was not very manly, challenging Duterte to a fistfight instead.

Duterte’s challenge came after Roxas tagged the peace and order situation in Davao City as myth, contrary to the mayor and locals’ claims.

Ramos, a known friend and supporter of Duterte, noted that he was one of the first to say that the Philippines needed a president from Mindanao, but lamented how the presidential derby has boiled down to a physical contest.

“A Philippine president must act like a national model at the same time must act globally competitive. You must appear before the United Nations, the human rights commission, Apec (AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation), Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). You have a huge international role to play,” Ramos said. “Let us just caution everybody that we are no longer what we are because we are going to be something else.”

Asked about the importance of educational attainment in choos-

ing the next president amid the digging up of degrees, Ramos said the more important criterion was a leader’s ability to engage and mobilize the public.

“Academic degrees really should not count because the conventional wisdom is like this: You should make sure your education goes to your mind and not to your head,” Ramos said.

“The most important component of leadership is ‘pakikisama sa mamayan’ or common tao so you could mobilize them to move as one team,” he added.

Asked about who he would endorse for president, Ramos joked that people should vote for someone younger than him as a lot of things can still from today until next year’s polls.

“They are all my friends,” he said. ■

Gov. Brown’s Appointments Secretary…

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section is read and shared with the governor and chief of staff.

“That helps us, in a crazy world with a lot to do to really get a feel for who you are,” she said.

She also suggested reaching out to elected officials, as the governor runs into them and may ask about appointee applicants, as well as practicing for the interview.

Applicants who move forward in the process will have about three conversations: the deputy, the subject matter senior advisor

to the governor, and then Pasquil, before moving on to Brown.

Although Brown is a Democrat, Pasquil said party affiliation is not the first concern, but rather whether the individual wishes to be a public servant who will participate and is not afraid to ask spirited questions. People should also be prepared to deal with conflicting ideas and opinions, which are found across many boards.

“The governor will say you have to have an opinion, and why do you have that opinion? [Gov.

Brown] doesn’t us all to agree....

If you are on the opposite side of an issue, the governor will just want to know why you feel that way and what’s the background,” she said.

Some positions will require Senate confirmation, and some will require appointees to be US citizens. Additionally, all appointment positions are in Sacramento, so appointees will not be able to work out of a Southern California office or elsewhere if they accept the position.

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Gov. Brown’s Appointments Secretary…

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Throughout the application process, Pasquil said her office is available to help. For instance, if someone interested in serving has scheduling conflicts that limit the number of meetings they are able to attend, or if one wishes to serve on a medical board but have a spouse that is a doctor, she encourages people to talk to her.

Even when an appointee is on a board or commission, Pasquil said her office is also available to provide assistance. If an appointee finds themselves unhappy with where they are serving, she says, “don’t quit. Just call and we’ll see what we can do.”

The Inland Empire is a region from which a lack of applications are received. Pasquil said of the 12,000 applications her office has received, 800 are from Riverside County. Other areas that lack representation on the governor’s boards include the south-

ernmost and northernmost parts of California, the Central Valley and Central Coast.

There are also always fewer women applicants than men.

“My team and I, we always feel that in order to do a good job for you, for the people of the State of California, we have to be out there finding people who are not expecting our call to serve,” Pasquil said.

Young people are also encouraged to consider applying for these appointee positions, as Pasquil said Brown does ask about where they are in the boards and commissions.

“I really believe it’s really important for any of these citizen boards to be successful that we have people from all over the state. So if its not you, then please think about who. Who from this area [can serve]?” she said.

Pasquil has previously served as Chief of Staff to California Lt. Gov. John Garamendi from 2008

to 2009. She was also appointed as Acting Lieutenant Governor when Garamendi was elected to Congress in 2009, marking the first time a woman, Asian Pacific Islander or Filipino-American served in the role. Pasquil is also the president of Pasquil Associates and Strategic Communications. She has directed presidential, gubernatorial and local campaigns across the United States: she served as political director for Gov. Gray Davis’ gubernatorial campaign, California political director for Al Gore’s presidential campaign, deputy political director for John Kerry’s presidential campaign, and western political director for the White House Office of Political Affairs under former president Bill Clinton.

Further information on becoming an appointee is available online at gov.ca.gov or via calling Pasquil’s office at (916) 4454541. ■

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Registering is only one step toward voting, and it is not one of the elements that makes the citizen a qualified voter.

“Thus, unless it is shown that a registration requirement rises to the level of a literacy, property or other substantive requirement as contemplated by the framers of the Constitution–that is, one which propagates a socioeconomic standard [that] is bereft of any rational basis to a person’s ability to intelligently cast his vote and to further the public good–the same cannot be struck down as unconstitutional, as in this case,” the ruling read.

The SC also ruled that contrary to petitioner’s argument, the regulation passes the “strict scrutiny” test.

Under this standard, it said, the government’s interest must be compelling, not merely substantial, and there must be no other less restrictive means to achieve that interest.

The SC sustained the regulation challenged on the ground of strict scrutiny, ruling that the objective of cleansing the national voter registry so as to eliminate electoral fraud and ensure that election results are reflective of the will of the electorate constitute a compelling state interest.

As for the absence of less re-

strictive means to achieve this interest, it noted, the regulation is the least restrictive means as it is a manner of updating registration for those already registered under RA 8189 through technology.

The High Court said the regulation was narrowly tailored to achieve the compelling state interest of establishing a clean, complete, permanent and updated list of voters, and was demonstrably the least restrictive means to promote that interest.

Congressional leaders were displeased with the decision, saying it could alter results of the 2016 elections.

House Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora of San Juan City (Metro Manila) and 1-BAP party list Rep. Silvestre Bello 3rd gave the heads up as a result of the SC decision upholding the Comelec policy of No Bio, No Boto.

“Not all of the 50 million registered voters will be casting their vote, so that number [2.4 million] is huge. The Comelec should just set aside one day to get an additional one million [voters to register their biometrics data].

As it is, the figure [of voters to be disenfranchised] is too big,” Zamora, who served as Executive Secretary during the Estrada administration, told reporters in a chance interview.

“I don’t agree with that [Su-

DOJ probes ‘tanim-bala’ racket…

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Arellano told reporters that the task force will designate a panel of prosecutor to conduct the preliminary investigation.

Once a panel has been created, Arellano said the respondents will required to answer the complaint filed by White and Zoleta.

Facing a complaint for violation Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act specifically Article V Section 38 (Liability for Planting Evidence) are OTS personnel Maria Elma Cena and Marvin Garcia.

On the other hand, facing complaint for violation of Article 293 of the Revised Penal Code for Robbery/Extortion, violations of Republic Act 7438 or the Act

defining certain rights of person arrested, detained or under custodial investigation and duties of arresting, detaining and investigating officers and Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft Law are Senior Police Officer 2 Rolando A. Clarin, Chief Inspector Adriano Junio, SPO4 Ramon Bernardo and SP02 Romy Navarro.

White was caught allegedly carrying a .22-cal. bullet in his luggage at NAIA on Sept 17. He, his father Ryan who is a Christian missionary, and stepmother Eloisa Zoleta, were about to fly to Coron, Palawan province, where they were planning to build a church.

After the Pasay Court dismissed the case against him, he already left the country last Monday Dec. 14. ■

Supreme Court hears…

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student bring to a physics class?”

Justice Roberts asked, when a lawyer spoke of the importance of diversity in the classroom. “In the past, when the high court has upheld affirmative action, it did so with the understanding that it was a ‘temporary’ measure.

When do you think your program will be done?”

The Court’s three liberals, led

by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, argued in defense of race-based admissions policies at the University of Texas, which was segregated by law and later opened its doors to minority students in 1950.

The public university has always had a selective admissions system that “sought to increase the minorities, using race and ethnicity as one of many factors in evaluating applicants,” reported NPR. Angered lower courts have ruled that UT could not consider race in any way in its admissions policies, but the university has still implemented it, guaranteeing three-quarters of slots as reserved by law for students who qualify in the top 7 to 10 percent of their high school class.

Abigail Fisher, a white student who was not accepted to UT in 2008, challenged UT’s “holistic review” policy that combines race/ethnicity and class rank with SAT scores, independently-graded essays, and extracurricular leadership, awards, and skills.

“There were people in my class with lower grades who weren’t in all the activities I was in, and who were being accepted into UT, and the only other difference between us was the color of our

skin,” Fisher argued.

Denying her claims, the university said it was neither extracurricular activities nor race, but Fisher’s grades and test scores were “simply too low” to get her in. The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals reviewed the school’s claims of good faith in its use of race in admissions, upholding the plan as constitutional by a 71 vote in 2013.

By contrast, Justice Antonin Scalia raised controversy when he questioned whether affirmative action benefits African American students.

“There are those who contend that it does not benefit AfricanAmericans to get them into the University of Texas, where they do not do well, as opposed to having them go to a less-advanced school, a slower-track school where the do well,” he said.

Justice Anthony Kennedy, oftentimes the key swing vote for the Supreme Court, suggested that the case should be sent back to a lower court to give the university an opportunity to present more evidence about the plan. It felt “like we’re just arguing the same case,” he said.

Supporters of affirmative action in higher education are fearful that the court might issue a broad ruling in the case, that would curtail a public university’s ability to consider race in order to produce a more diverse student body, said CNN. The outcome almost certainly turns on Kennedy’s vote. If Kennedy votes with the three liberals, the court will be split 4-4, which would affirm the lower court’s ruling although without a

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Marcos says BBL is…

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cos said.

The Senate went on recess for the Christmas break and reconvenes on Jan. 18 next year.

There are barely three weeks – from Jan. 18 to Feb. 5, 2016 – left during the third session of the 16th Congress before the campaign kicks off for the May elections.

Marcos said he doubts whether the two chambers could wrap up deliberations even after resumption of session next year, noting that the House had difficulty mustering a quorum.

“Today is the last session day for this year. Maybe we can reasonably expect a short session in January, but we don’t get quorum at the House of Representatives because almost all of the congressmen, I’m sure 99 percent of them are candidates for one thing or another so they need to campaign,” he said.Technically, Marcos said the BBL proceedings would be “back to zero” upon the resumption of the 17th Congress.

But once re-filed, Marcos said preme Court decision]. That any member could ask that the would exclude 2.4 million vot- work on the measure in the last ers–a number that could affect Congress be taken into considerthe results of the presidential ation by the committee. elections,” Bello said.

Marcos, however, remains Zamora cited victories, includ- hopeful that the next administraing those races for high-ranking tion will continue efforts to attain national posts, which are decided peace in Mindanao. by fewer than a million votes.

“But the peace process must In the 2010 elections, then continue. We must continue tryMakati City Mayor Jejomar Binay ing. We must find the solution to beat then-Sen. Manuel Roxas the violence and the fighting in 2nd in the vice presidential race Mindanao. It is not a local issue. by at least 700,000 votes. (With It is a national issue,” he said.

Catherine S. Valente, Llanesca T. “So the next administration Panti and PNA) must continue the peace process

Supreme Court upholds ‘No Bio, No…

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and be serious in finding a solution,” the senator added.

Asked what contributed to the failure of Congress to pass the measure, Marcos pointed to the delay in the submission of the draft BBL by the Palace, which forwarded it to Congress in September 2014 instead of April that year.

He lamented that the Senate worked very hard to have a “constitutionally-sound” basic law.

“The draft BBL reached Congress September 2014. It is now December of 2015. So we have been working on it for over a year and I can say I really gave my best effort to craft this substitute bill (Basic Law of Bangsamoro Autonomous Region),” Marcos said.

Palace not bothered Malacañang is not bothered that the House cannot pass the BBL bill before the Christmas break today despite appeals from President Aquino.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said this should not be a cause for concern since they are coordinating with Congress to thresh out concerns.

“We have been informed by Congress leaders that efforts will be exerted to pass the BBL when Congress resumes session in January,” he said in a statement, referring to the assurance made

by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. and other House officials.

Coloma and presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda advised the public to just wait and see.

“Let’s wait,” was Lacierda’s short yet confident reply to Pal-

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ace reporters when asked about the possibility of the peace measure being passed by Congress, considering the repeated absence of quorum in the lower chamber.

Aquino said in an interview in Cebu City that he is very certain that despite the consistent lack of quorum in the House, a majority of legislators will definitely show up once voting on the BBL takes place.

The House leadership has been having quorum problems right after Aquino’s State of the Nation Address last July 27.

Coloma dismissed the claims of Marcos that the Palace and not him was to blame for the failure of Congress to pass the bill because it submitted its proposed BBL late and had lots of questions on constitutionality.

Marcos said he must not be blamed for the delay in the passage of the proposal because they did work on it for over a year.

Nine former senators who authored the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) law have also urged Congress to pass the BBL. In a joint statement released by the Peace Process Media Bureau, ARMM law authors Heherson Alvarez, Teofisto Guingona Jr., Jose Lina, Orlando Mercado, Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Santanina Rasul, Leticia Shahani, Rene Saguisag and Wigberto Tañada called on congressmen and senators to expedite the enactment of the BBL. “We believe that members of Congress should rise to the challenge of stopping the cycle of violence and poverty that has stalled peace and progress in Mindanao for generations,” the group said.

They said that in addressing

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Willy Gaa, envoy and…

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Supreme Court hears historic case on…

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majority opinion.

Justice Kennedy has long agreed that having a diverse student body is sufficiently important to justify consideration of race in admissions, but only if all other race-neutral systems have been tried and failed--such as economic status, NPR reported. During his career, Kennedy has never voted to uphold a race-based policy, but he has not joined with more conservative justices in a ruling that would flatly forbid affirmative action, said the LA Times.

If the court writes an opinion in Fisher vs. University of Texas, it is not likely to be handed down until the late spring.

Jennifer Lee, a sociologist and professor at UC Irvine, said she hopes that Asian American parents who are against the concept understand that affirmative action represents a “net positive” for their community.

“They think it’s in their self-interest to fight affirmative action,” Lee, author of “The Asian American Achievement Paradox,” told NBC News. “But it is only in a very narrow way, without thinking of their broader life course.

We need affirmative action because we don’t have the institutional advantages we think we do.”

She also pointed to data from the 2014 National Asian American Survey that shows the majority of Asian Americans--69 percent of registered voters polled from California--are in support of affirmative action, mainly because at some point, they may

need such policies.

“This may come as a surprise because there has been a small, but highly organized, vocal minority who opposes it. What’s important to note is that the second generation are more likely to support affirmative action than immigrants, most likely because the former understand how race affects their life chances, even as they attain high levels of education,” Lee continued. “The better question [isn’t self-interest, but] whether Asian Americans are willing to recognize our ethnic and class diversity.”

“Affirmative action policies allow universities to consider the differential starting points while also promoting diversity on campuses,” she added.

A May 2015 study by the Ascend Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering business leadership in the AsianAmerican community, which found that while Asian Americans made up 27.2 percent of professionals at major tech companies Google, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, LinkedIn, and Yahoo, only 13.9 percent of executives were Asian-American, pointing to a lack of representation in leadership positions.

“They make up less than 1 percent of corporate board members and about 2 percent of college presidents. Asian Americans may be facing a ‘bamboo ceiling,’ not unlike the glass ceiling that women face. How to break down that ceiling? Affirmative action, of course.”

In her collaborated research with UCLA professor Min Zhou,

Lee explained that some lowerincome Asian Americans were able to overcome class disadvantages by using what the researchers called “ethnic capital”—the “communal knowledge, practices, and institutions created by better-off peers to help others within their ethnic group. It includes academic enrichment and tutoring programs,” she explained. “Those communities with larger middle classes are in [a] position to leverage their education and financial resources to create it. But other groups like Mexican immigrants remain disadvantaged. Not all groups have access to the same type of ethnic capital. This is why affirmative action matters.”

Across the country, universities are making major efforts to diversify their campuses, whether affirmative action makes it through the Supreme Court or not. In November of this year, Yale University announced it would devote $50 million to retaining and recruiting a diverse faculty, and Brown University said it would spend $100 million.

“The racial tensions that have come to light on campuses across the country, and the students’ non-violent protests show that race continues to matter in the lives of university students, even for those who are on the country’s most elite campuses,” Lee finished. “Students, faculty, and universities have made their positions clear: diversity matters, and insuring diversity is critical for all, not just certain groups.” (Allyson Escobar/AJPress)

fulness and bright attitude,” said Consul General Mario L. de Leon, Jr. “His illustrious career that spanned 36 years proved his expertise in various aspects of the Service – in administration, consular affairs, political diplomacy – in all geographic areas covered by the Department.”

The Filipino-American community he dealt with in Northeast United States during his term as Consul General in New York and later as Ambassador to the United States remembers him as a warm and accommodating community leader.

Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr also issued a statement on Gaa’s passing.

“It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Ambassador Willy Gaa. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gaa family during this time of loss and sorrow. On this sad occasion, we recall the Ambassador’s long and dedicated service to our country and to the Filipino people. Ambassador Gaa’s professionalism and tireless efforts to advance the interests of the Philippines and the Filipino diaspora community will continue to inspire the work of the Philippine Embassy and Consulates General across the United States,” Cuisia said.

Gaa, a veteran diplomat and a statesman, is survived by his wife Linda and sons Wendell and Warren.

The outpouring of prayers and condolences on Facebook and various email groups prompted Wendell to thank friends, relatives and supporters for their prayers, support and well wishes to the family during this difficult

time.

“I know my Dad is now looking from up above upon us with much pride, knowing that we will continue to carry on the work of servicing the Fil-Am community which he so dedicated his life and career to when he was in the diplomatic corps,” Wendell said.

Gaa was the Philippine ambassador to China from 2003 to 2006. He then served as consul general at the Los Angeles Consulate General. Prior to his appointment as ambassador to the United States, he was charge d’affaires at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC. He was also assigned as an envoy to Australia and Libya and non-resident ambassador to Tunisia, Malta and Niger from 1992 to 1997.

Consummate Diplomat “Ambassador Willy Gaa was a consummate diplomat, whose actions more than his words, helped make a difference in the Filipino American community’s aspirations for empowerment,” said NaFFAA National Chairman JT Mallonga.

“As Philippine Ambassador to the United States from 20062011, Ambassador Gaa deeply cared for the community’s issues and concerns, notably the struggle of Filipino World War II Veterans for justice and equity. He championed this cause with determination and delight, walking the halls of Congress and meeting with U.S. leaders to speak for the thousands of veterans who needed a voice. He was there when the House finally voted for the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund on February 2007, staying late into the night to savor a measure of justice that

Marcos says BBL is…

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important issues that impact on national constituency, “we tried to prioritize the urgent need to address generations of inequity suffered by our Muslim brothers and sisters in Mindanao.”

The present lawmakers should take the opportunity to achieve lasting peace through the passage of the BBL. Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles is still hoping that Congress will pass the controversial BBL. Reacting to the delay in the passage of the BBL in Congress, Deles said that the key towards achieving the Aquino administra-

tion’s target to achieve peace in Mindanao is now in the hands of the lawmakers.

“We continue to hope that Congress will rise to the challenge and seize this historic opportunity to make a difference and radically shift the landscape not just for now but very especially for future generations,” Deles said.

She said the House leadership had assured Malacañang that there is still time and a way to complete the interpellation period this December.

“It is a very critical period for peace advocates to let their voices be heard loud and clear by our

had long been denied from our brave heroes. Thank you, Ambassador Gaa, for standing with us during our community’s most critical hours,” Mallonga added.

Community leader Gloria T. Caoile said Ambassador Gaa came to Washington, DC. “with an open mind and a heart full of passion to serve us well.”

“With his wife Linda, they opened their home to the community, relating to us as their family! His wry sense of humor and humility served him well in the rewarding relationships he forged, driven mainly by a passion to serve his people and his country. We will miss you, Sir, but we will never forget the good things you left behind,” Caoile said.

Loida Nicolas Lewis, NaFFAA National Chair Emeritus, praised Ambassador Gaa’s diligent efforts to motivate Filipinos and Filipino Americans to give back to their mother country.

“He instilled a sense of devotion and duty to the Philippines by encouraging them to become dual citizens, and be involved in the country’s governance as overseas voters and citizens. He also encouraged community organizations to help needy and distressed Filipino nationals who are in need of legal and humanitarian assistance. He was truly a man who cared. He gave his very best, with quiet dignity and humble grace,” Lewis said.

Interment is scheduled on Dec. 15, with viewings from December 10-14 at Funeraria Paz, Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Paranaque.

A condolence book will be made available at the Philippine Center Lobby on Fifth Avenue from Dec. 11 to 18 for the community. (Momar G. Visaya/AJPress) representatives in Congress,” Deles said.

She said that last week, President Aquino had clearly laid out the challenge to House members to pass the BBL. Deles said Aquino reminded the lawmakers that this is the opportunity to bring a just and peaceful resolution to the armed conflict.

Aquino had stressed that peace in the Bangsamoro is not an issue of his personal legacy but the solution that would benefit the entire nation.

Opposition congressmen asked Aquino yesterday to leave the fate of the BBL to his successor.

(Christina Mendez, Delon Porcalla, Aurea Calica, Jess Diaz, and Paolo Romero / Philstar.com)

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DATELINE PHILIPPINES

Poe emotional in commemoration of FPJ’s 11th death anniversary

by ROSETTE

ADEL

Philstar.com

MANILA—Sen. Grace Poe was emotional during the commemoration of her father, veteran actor Fernando Poe Jr.’s 11th death anniversary at the Manila North Cemetery.

The embattled presidential aspirant facing a number of disqualification cases expressed regret that she was not able to thank her father before he died in 2004. ”I have gone through many challenges in life and every time I think of FPJ’s life, my regret was that I was not able to thank him before he died. That’s why my life now is an appreciation to FPJ,” Poe said.

Poe was in the United States when FPJ passed away six months after he lost a presidential election won by former president and current Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

In her announcement of her presidential bid last September, Poe said she chooses to follow FPJ’s dream for the country.

Poe faces four disqualification cases and was recently disquali-

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fied by two divisions of the Commission on Election. ”In everything I’ve been facing right now, I always remember what my father had told me: don’t give up if you’re fighting for what is right, don’t give up if your fighting for your principle and last, don’t give up if you’re fighting for others’ welfare and not only for yourself,” Poe said.

During the commemoration,

Poe was joined by her mother, veteran actress Susan Roces, husband Neil and children Bryan and Hannah and other members of Poe family and personalities from entertainment industry.

Poe’s senatorial candidates and supporters, lawyer Lorna Kapunan and Reps. Sammy Pagdilao, Sherwin Gatchalian and Roman Romulo were also present during the commemoration.

Binay camp calls COA report ‘totally skewed’ “There were no adverse findVice President,” Quicho said.

The Binay camp has not yet ings and especially no findings seen an official copy of the COA of overpricing,” he said.

But the “malicious” resurrecA SPOKESPERSON of Vice report, he added.

Quicho reiterated that the tion of the issue shows that the President Jejomar Binay Tuesday slammed as “totally skewed” the Makati parking building project orchestrated and well-funded atInquirer report on Commission was “subjected to 11 COA au- tack against the Vice President on Audit (COA) findings outlin- dits, including a technical audit has now been revived,” Quicho said. ing alleged irregularities in the by specialists.” construction of the overpriced Makati City Hall Building II. “The news report is totally skewed and spiteful in the light of a COA press information office statement that there is no COA report yet,” Rico Quicho said.

He said he found it strange that the report “did not say the details when it was released, what period was covered or if it included the management comments on the said findings.”

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Aquino: Empowerment of people, media among my legacies

by AUREA

CALICA Philstar.com

MANILA—President Benigno Aquino III believes people power and the media thrived under his administration and this could be the legacy he could leave behind, especially since he is the son of two democracy icons.

“I kept saying I had the courage to do what had to be done because I sincerely believed that the people were behind me,” Aquino said on Friday, Dec. 11 in a media forum in Pasay City.

“So I’d like to hope also that in return I have helped in empowering our people so that they are able to take more active control of their future, that they really have a stake in where this country is going, that they feel connected to the fortunes of this country.”

Aquino said changes were happening because the “people willed” them and “they have charted the present and the future.”

“So they are not powerless to affect their fate,” he said.

“They are, in fact, the prime movers towards determining their fate. That is the lesson that was really stressed—people power is a reality and it can really be used for the good.”

Aquino said he had always appealed for balance in reporting—that good news would also sell—but noted the stark contrast between the environment now and during martial law.

The relationship between the media and the government could really be one of mutual irritation, and sometimes his main message would fail to be sent across because of other issues that the media would like to highlight based on their own editorial prerogative, he added, quoting a newspaper columnist.

Aquino said media would have to play a crucial role since they had been exposed to all kinds of candidates through the years.

“I trust that, as exemplars of your profession, you will continue to do your part to speak the truth and deliver our message of hope– not only in the next six months, but even long after I leave office,” he said.

“It is that very message that enabled all of us to stand up against a dictator in 1986; dismantle the system of lying, cheating and

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stealing in government in 2010; and in turn lay the foundations for a Philippines that now works, a country where no one is left behind.”

Aquino reiterated the administration’s investments in people and how the attitude of the Filipinos—from apathetic to being demanding now—would be his legacy as well.

“Aside from the projects or the programs…really it’s the mindset, the change in attitude of our people,” he said.

“I know all of you will agree with me. Hopefully, it will continue and it will accelerate, we are getting our citizens back.”

Aquino said he was happy with the country’s hosting of the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation summit.

“I think a lot of people are beaming with pride that we can host, successfully host, such a big meeting with so many luminaries entrusting their safety to us,” he said.

“When you have local government officials telling you about the change in—before begging for each and every project, now saying that they are having difficulties in coming up with their counterpart because there is just so much activity.”

Aquino said people with agenda could always ask themselves why they were feeling bad about everything even if there were legitimate gains that the administration could get credit for.

“Bakit masama ang loob mo (Why are you feeling bad)?” he asked.

“The economy improved. Why are you feeling bad? About 4.4 million families are being assisted by (the conditional cash transfer program). Why are you feeling bad? Our Armed Forces got modernized.”

Aquino asked why some journalists would wake up wanting to hit the government when at the end of the day, Filipinos were in one boat and it would be everyone’s obligation to make things work for the better.

“If they are right, if they are broadcaster et cetera, people gave them that opportunity and they could have used that opportunity for the common good,” he said.

“Why is it such an alien concept to promote the common good? Perhaps it might also fill me up with negativity. I’d like to forget them. Of course, I ignore them now,” he added.

Aquino will miss the media but he will not read the newspaper when he wakes up in the “late afternoon” the day after he steps down from office on June 30.

He will keep on hoping to settle down by praying to St. Jude, and he will leave the presidency a changed man.

These were some of the thoughts going on in Aqïno’s head when he was again asked about what he was planning to do after the end of his term.

He reiterated he was not entertaining the idea of running again or extending his term as there would always be things left undone.

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Bongbong urges voters: Don’t elect candidates who disunite people

by ROSETTE

ADEL

Philstar.com

MANILA—Vice presidential candidate, Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., on Saturday urged the electorate not to vote politicians who disunite people in the upcoming elections.

Marcos said the efforts to move the country forward failed since there is an excessive partisan politics manipulated by those who hold power.

He said the solutions to problems are already available, but the government officials themselves are divided so the solutions are not properly carried out.

“Ask yourself if this or that candidate is for unity. If not, then don’t vote for him or her. We can’t have stability if the government is filled with politicians who divide the people for the sake of politics or their own personal agenda or gain,” Marcos said in a statement.

Marcos lamented that Filipinos are hindered by too much politicking of government of-

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ficials promoting their interests and the interests of their party mates, friends, close associates and relatives.

“The Filipino people are industrious, honest, and resilient that’s why our OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) are preferred by foreign employers over other nationalities. Magagaling tayong mga Pilipino pero bakit mahirap ang ating sitwasyon?” Marcos said.

“The drug problem is alarm-

ing; corruption persists; prices are high; crime is rampant; unemployment rate is high; agriculture is neglected; the housing program is a failure; traffic in Metro Manila is a big mess; the educational system is not at par with our neighboring countries.

We know the solutions to these but we can only solve them if we are united as Filipinos and the first and paramount job of the government is to unite us all,” he added.

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American tanim-bala victim leaves Philippines RUDY SANTOS

piece of land where they could build a church for their congregation.

They had a flight to Coron, Palawan the following day but they were held at the NAIA Terminal 4 after airport security allegedly discovered a .22-cal. bullet in his luggage after it went through the x-ray scanner.

White said he was not carrying the bullet but airport security insisted that it was not planted.

He was held for five days— from Sept. 17 to Sept. 21—at the Philippine National Police (PNP) detention cell after allegedly refusing to give P30,000 to Office for Transportation Security (OTS) personnel in exchange for his immediate release.

He was later released from jail after the court acted on his motion and reduced his bail from P80,000 to P40,000.

White identified the alleged suspects in the bullet-planting scheme as Maria Elma Cena, 46, MANILA—Visiting American and Marvin Garcia, 23, members missionary Lane Michael White, of the Transportation Security a victim of the tanim-bala (bulletRisk Management Bureau of the planting) scheme at the Ninoy OTS and currently assigned at Aquino International Airport, NAIA Terminal 4. was scheduled to board a Philip“I wouldn’t know what to do pine Airlines flight bound for Los without the media on my side.

Angeles at the NAIA Terminal 2 I’m glad I became an instrument on Sunday, Dec. 13. in helping the Philippines expose Pasay City Branch 119 Judge this scheme to the world,” White Pedro de Leon Gutierrez ordered said prior to his departure. the Bureau of Immigration to lift “The people will now be more the hold departure order against vigilant when they travel,” he White after he was cleared of any added. offense last Dec. 10.

Deeper probe White attended more than Meanwhile, Valenzuela City two months of hearings on the Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian urged scheme. yesterday the National Bureau of White arrived in the country Investigation (NBI) to go deeper from the US last Sept. 16, togethinto its probe of the bullet-planter with his father and Filipina ing scheme at the NAIA as he bestepmother, to look for a small lieves a syndicate is behind the racket.

“While we laud the effort of the NBI in filing charges against four policemen from the PNP-Aviation Security Group (ASG) and two personnel of the OTS, the NBI should dig deeper so that the syndicate behind this tanimbala modus will be unmasked and brought to justice,” he said.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that there were instances that the extortion scheme was perpetrated by OTS personnel.

DOJ spokesman Emmanuel Caparas, however, clarified that the NBI cannot confirm yet if there is a syndicate behind the bullet-planting scheme. He said CXe\ D`Z_X\c N_`k\ kf^\k_\i n`k_ _`j jk\g$dfk_\i <cf`jX Qfc\kX Z\ek\i # Xe[ ]Xk_\i IpXe the group behind the scheme is N_`k\ i`^_k Xkk\e[\[ X J\eXk\ `ehl`ip `ekf k_\ ÈcX^cX^ YXcXÉ `eZ`[\ekj Xk k_\ E8@8 cXjk Efm% not big enough to be considered ()% J\eXk\ g_fkf a syndicate. by

Philstar.com

Laudes sue VFA exec, 11 Pemberton guards for contempt OLONGAPO CITY—The family of slain transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude on Monday, Dec. 13 filed contempt charges against an official of the Presidential Commission on the Visiting Forces Agreement (PCVFA) and 11 American soldiers for defying an Olongapo City judge’s initial ruling to jail convicted US Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.

In the petition filed in the Regional Trial Court here, lawyer Harry Roque Jr., lead counsel of the Laude family, asked the court to cite Eduardo Oban Jr., executive director of the PCVFA, and the 11 American soldiers in indirect contempt for refusing to turn Pemberton over to local authorities after his conviction on Dec. 1.

Judge Roline Ginez-Jabalde of RTC Branch 74 found Pemberton guilty of homicide in the kill-

ing of Laude in an Olongapo City motel room in October last year.

Witnesses identified Pemberton as the foreigner who checked into the motel with Laude.

Jabalde had initially directed the Philippine National Police to detain Pemberton at the NBP pending an agreement between the Philippine and US governments on where the Marine would be held.

This triggered a standoff after the reading of the verdict on Dec. 1 when Pemberton’s security escorts refused to hand him over to the local police.

The standoff ended when Jabalde allowed Pemberton to be temporarily held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines custodial center in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. From the court here, Pemberton, however, was taken to the Joint United States Military Advisory Group facility inside Camp Aguinaldo, the same facility where he was held

for more than a year during his trial.

On Dec. 8, Jabalde directed Pemberton to serve his sentence at the AFP custodial center under the supervision of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). She later amended her Dec. 1 order after Oban delivered to the court the Philippine-US memorandum of agreement detailing how and where Pemberton would serve his sentence under the terms of the VFA. Roque said Oban and the 11 American guards should be held liable for indirect contempt for “violating and refusing to obey” the court’s original commitment order.

“These actions are in clear disobedience and violation of the lawful order of the court to temporarily detain him at the AFP custodial center under the supervision of the [BuCor],” Roque said in the petition. (Allan Macatuno/Inquirer.net)

Aquino: Empowerment of people, media...

G8>< 8, “I will try to enjoy feeling no pressure whatsoever on that day,” he said.

Aquino thinks he can be a ‘fiscalizer’ as a former president, but he hopes there will be no need to do so because the people will choose his right successor.

“Again, like any citizen, if called upon to help, why shouldn’t we?” he said.

“But as much as possible, I will pray for the successor, that he really builds upon the successes that we’ve had already, and therefore we can go from strength to strength.”

Like his mother, also a former president, he was not fond of unsolicited advice, he added.

Aquino said he would like to have the “Bora experience” or to be able to go to Boracay island and stay long for a vacation.

“One of the best pictures my mother ever had was of her really being at peace walking in the beach in Bora,” he said.

“To be honest, I had the same opportunity to visit Bora for a total of about 40 minutes” for the inauguration of a project.

St. Jude Aquino said his nephews and nieces had told him they would probably get married before he would and went on to tell the story of how one of his nephews proposed to his wife.

“You could see really the intense happiness in both their faces,” he said.

“Perhaps, even our family is entitled to perpetuate the next generation. So we’re close to that.

Now, do I have plans? I’ve always had plans. Maybe when I have more time, now I will be able to go to St. Jude a lot more often, it might help.”

Asked “who is Benigno Aquino III” now, the President admitted he was looking at the mirror the other day and joked that “I was trying to decide whether or not I had more hair now or less hair.”

“But in all seriousness, I’d like to think I’ve also grown as a person,” he said, noting the challenges the country had to face even during the Christmas season.

“I tend to be a person who prepares for the worst but hopes for the best and some of the challenges were really (heavy),” he said.

If there were times that he was perceived to be hardheaded, it was only because he was standing by his principles, Aquino said.

He had learned to listen and deal with a lot more inputs now than before assuming the highest office, Aquino said.

“So hopefully that also helps in having a higher level of discourse in things that affect this country,” he said.

He would like to believe he helped enable the people reach their potentials, he added.

Still a scrooge But one thing that does not change in him would be his being thrifty or a scrooge, Aquino admitted.

“I bought myself a La-Z Boy chair a very, very long time ago.

Close to a decade ago. I must admit to all of you that was like a luxury item for me,” he said.

He shared that he looked for all the models and the price tags and ended up buying a blue one.

One week later, the chair went on sale, and he wanted to go and ask the salesman why he never tipped him about that so he would have gotten a better deal, Aquino said.

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OPINION

FEATURES

Menacing

DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has vowed to stop crime and corruption if elected president of the Philippines in 2016. It seems that he will stop at nothing to get there. The no-nonsense presidential aspirant is on a mean streak lately and has been engaging his rivals in a political mudslinging.

His first target was Sen. Grace Poe, who is currently facing disqualification cases over her residency and citizenship status.

Duterte said he was convinced to submit his bid for the presidency because he does not want an American to be the country’s next president.

“The president should be a Filipino,” Duterte said.

Poe’s camp maintained the senator is a natural-born Filipino and that the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET’s) favorable decision on the senator’s eligibility, rendered justice to Poe and all other foundlings. “In a democracy, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. We respect Mayor Duterte and we respect his opinion. But to reiterate, Senator Poe is a natural-born Filipino. International laws and covenants substantiate this fact,” Poe’s spokesman, Valenzuela Mayor Rex Gatchalian said.

However, Poe’s candidacy remains in limbo after the Commission on Election (Comelec’s) First and Second Divisions disqualified her from the presidential race due to citizenship and residency issues. The Supreme Court will review and give the final verdict on the cases.

On Sunday, Dec. 13, Duterte lashed back at the Liberal Party’s standard bearer, former Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and accused him falsely of graduating from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.

“I would like to ask the presidentiable [Roxas], you claim to have graduated from Wharton School of Economics, that is a myth. You did not graduate from Wharton School of Economics, Mr. Roxas,”

Duterte said. Roxas presented his Wharton credentials, but Duterte remained adamant and said they were fabricated.

According to the university’s website, Roxas graduated with a Bachelor of Science in economics from the Wharton School in 1979 and is listed as one the institution’s notable alumni, which also include Donald Trump and Warren Buffett.

The word-war sparked when Roxas claimed that Davao City’s peace and order is a myth.

Davao City was recently ranked the fourth safest place in the world by Numbeo.com, and the country’s most child-friendly based on a government ranking.

With neither one backing down on proving their claims, Duterte dared Roxas in a slapping match, while Roxas insisted a fistfight. The heated exchange ended with Duterte challenging Roxas to a gun duel, saying he is not afraid of anything.

While recent poll results are in his favor, Duterte should be reminded that there is a multitude of ills in the country that deserve more attention. Rather than trading barbs with his competition, he should elaborate on his platform instead to engage more voters to cast his name on the ballot next year.

Filipinos have unenthusiastic assessments on the socio-political situation in the country.

As spectators to this current political drama, they owe it to themselves to think objectively and look at facts instead of having prejudices and biases. With the presidency on the line, civic participation is encouraged now more than ever. (AJPress)

Editorial

As A Matter Of Fact SARA SOLIVEN DE GUZMAN THE candidates for the 2016 Presidential race are all ready to rumble. The top contenders are Mar Roxas, Jejomar Binay, Grace Poe, Miriam Santiago and Rodrigo Duterte.

Mar Roxas is from the Liberal Party. He was the former DILG head and part of the hierarchy of the current administration. He is remembered with the Zamboanga Siege, Yolanda disaster recovery, and police operational integrity. He was the uninformed DILG head that resulted in the SAF44 massacre and rebuked for his lack of action in the Lumad killings and abuse and the many more conflicting scenarios and decisions in the Daang Matuwid program of the president.

Jejomar Binay from United Nationalist Alliance and current Vice President, inundated with drastic plunder and corruption issues while being Mayor of Makati and issues on ill-gotten wealth. Most of his outputs as Vice President is said to give aid to the selected needy with no significant infrastructure changes or development.

Grace Poe from heading the

The Presidentiables MTRCB to becoming a senator, possibly disqualified by Comelec for issues about her residency status. She was recently elected as sitting member of the Senate with really no significant achievements that addresses the needs of the nation.

Miriam Santiago current sitting member of the Senate with quite a fiery reputation. Her background previously is judicial based and as Senator is quite pedantic when it comes to judiciary matters. Is she fit enough to address all the reforms to change the current machinery of government? Outside judiciary matters, does she have the skills to negotiate, compromise and devise needed reforms? What about her health issues? Is she physically fit to lead the country?

Then there is Rodrigo Duterte, current Mayor of Davao. He has implemented massive reforms in the City of Davao, a satellite template of a safe and productive functional city. He decided to run for president due to the demands and seemingly overwhelming support from citizens. He is quite an unorthodox operator with a background in judiciary. He applied stringent reforms in crime and punishment, improved infrastructure in the LGU level with success in functionality. Will his boldness, roughness and revolu-

tionary approach effect change?

Will the people accept his coarseness?

Who amongst these finalists should lead the country? What are they made of? Are they made of sugar and spice and everything nice? Are their promises of a paradise land merely a lip service to the people?

What kind of leader do we need? In choosing a leader one must look into the very core of his/her existence: family background and moral values, his growing up years that best show the character of the person he will become, his career that will exemplify his ability and skills to lead and his socio-civic works and advocacies that will show his compassion for those in need.

We must keep in mind that we are not choosing a person who will lead a small group or an islet. We should build on the idea that this person will lead a nation – a nation currently in distress.

This leader must have the ability to look at the bigger picture, the problems our countrymen face, the struggle of our development and the continued search of our identity as a people and as one nation.

It is not a joke to become a leader. There are many issues confronting a new leader. However, if he or she has the purest

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heart, the sincerity, the desire to work, the compassion and the passion to get us back on our feet, then, we can make it. But these virtues are not enough. A good leader needs the ability to lead, to manage and to get things done. He or she cannot afford to lead with limited vision, with shallow ideas and the lack of discernment. A leader cannot afford to be too bold or too meek.

There must always be a balance of power.

Our country is an archipelago made up of 7,107 islands.

We have more than 100 ethnic groups with different dialects, nineteen languages and several religions (with the majority being Roman Catholic). We have 18 regions, 81 provinces, 144 cities and 42,029 barangays.

As a country that lies in the Pacific Ring of Fire near the equator in the forefront of Southeast Asia meeting the Pacific Ocean, we are clearly prone to major typhoons, earthquakes and other natural calamities. We are also surrounded by the different Southeast Asian islands which put our maritime security at a greater risk.

The political and socio-economic situation of the country remains the same. Poverty, unemployment, and crime still abound. Traffic has gone from worse to worst. Corruption, albeit curtailed by the present ad-

ministration (as P-Noy would like to believe) will still be the main factor that will cause our misery and agony and hinder the progress of the nation.

Our current machinery of government is quite ineffective in all aspects of governance. Comments and words are used only for speeches with no effective outcome. You could even classify our country in a lawless category with the Laws of the Land so ineffectively written, making it easy for the lawyers to find loopholes in the whole Judiciary System.

All the government departments are inefficiently run, putting to waste the much needed funds to provide proper services to the people. Added to this are the plunder, corruption and continuous questionable activities of our leaders that have gone wayward in victimizing the people in illegal acts like the “Tanim Bala” conspiracy. It took the government a long time to act. Even our prison system sucks. Criminals run their illegal businesses from prison and continue to destroy lives even in confinement.

At the end of the day we need to lower the 80% in the poverty line and the 40% workers living in illegal settlements. Reforms must be implemented by government to better their living status and target them to become middle income earners. Just remember, an increased buying capacity of

the workers is a massive increase in economic growth. This cannot however happen with the employment abuse of 3 to 6 months contractual system we currently have in place. People cannot plan their careers as there is no stability of employment. Furthermore, the fees for employment requirements for credible personal information such as renewal of IDs and security clearance are netting the government billions of pesos per year. This is taken from the people struggling to survive. This in itself is a human right issue that no one ever bothered to attend to.

So now, we are at the brink of another presidential election. Will these presidentiables be able to produce the changes through proactive reforms to improve government service? Will they be able to address the problems of the nation?

As voters we have the duty to choose who is best for our nation. We must not base our decision on popularity. We must take time to look deeper into each individual candidate’s ability to organize and plan to produce the needed result. Listen to what they have to say about current issues and problems facing the country.

Choosing the right leader may bring that efficient administrative infrastructure, thus, forming a totally functional machinery of government. (Philstar.com)

Long Beach Filipinos support $15 minimum wage and protections against wage theft WITH over 30,000 Filipinos living in Commentary Long Beach, conversations about raising the minimum wage and wage enforcement in the city are important issues to the Filipino commu- JOANNA CONCEPCION nity.

Most Filipinos in Long Beach have settled in Westside Long Beach, an area tucked in between the 710 freeway and the bustling Port of Long Beach. Filipinos living in Westside Long Beach largely work low-wage jobs in the health and service industries. Raising the minimum wage would undoubtedly create a positive impact in the Filipino community.

According to data from Long Beach Rising: A City that Works for Everyone by the Economic Roundtable, raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour would affect 17,000 Long Beach residents who work in the city.

An increase in wages would help nearly over 6,500 Long Beach workers rise out of poverty by 2020. In addition to providing a living wage for residents working in the city, the minimum wage policy should include earned paid sick days so workers do not have to make the choice between going to work sick or staying home and not getting paid.

Workers should also receive stronger

protection against wage theft, which includes being underpaid and being denied overtime or breaks.

In November 2015, the Filipino Migrant Center surveyed 110 Westside Long Beach residents about raising the minimum wage in Long Beach and their experiences with wage theft. Of the residents surveyed, 96 percent support the raising the minimum wage in Long Beach.

More than half of residents (62 percent) shared experiencing at least one form of wage theft, including being underpaid, denied breaks, and working overtime without pay. Respondents working as caregivers, restaurant servers, and health care workers shared personal experiences with wage theft.

41 percent of residents reported know-

ing someone who has experienced wage theft.

The high percentage of respondents stating they have experienced wage theft is not surprising. Filipino immigrants and migrant workers working low-wage service jobs are some of the most vulnerable to exploitation in the workplace. Long Beach Filipino residents were overwhelmingly supportive of passing a policy to protect workers from wage theft.

As part of the Coalition to End Wage Theft and the Raise the Wage Coalition, the Filipino Migrant Center has been working collaboratively with other community organizations and members in a growing movement to end wage theft and raise the wage in Long Beach. We believe that all workers in Long Beach

deserve better. As a part of a vibrant Filipino community, we must empower workers and uplift communities by passing a policy in Long Beach for a living wage, strong wage enforcement, guaranteed paid sick days, and no exemptions. Our families are depending on it.

Joanna Concepcion is the Executive Director of the Filipino Migrant Center, a non-profit organization based in Long Beach, California that serves Filipinos throughout Southern California and addresses the issues and concerns they face in their daily lives. ■ *** AfXeeX :feZ\gZ`fe `j k_\ \o\Zlk`m\ [`i\Zkfi f] k_\ =`c`g`ef D`^iXek :\ek\i# X efe$gif]`k fi^Xe`qXk`fe YXj\[ `e Cfe^ 9\XZ_# :Xc`]fie`X k_Xk j\im\j =`c`g`efj k_ifl^_flk Jflk_\ie :Xc`]fie`X Xe[ X[[i\jj\j `jjl\j Xe[ ZfeZ\iej k_\p ]XZ\ `e k_\`i [X`cp c`m\j%

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NATIONAL CITY 2720 E. PLAZA BLVD. , NATIONAL CITY, CA 91950 (619) 475-1025

“WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO TERMINATE THE SALES PROMO WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. WE ALSO RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REPLACE ITEMS WITH PRODUCTS OF APPROXIMATE VALUE. NO RAIN CHECKS. PROMO GOOD WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OR PROMO. PRICES MAY CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. GIVEAWAYS NOT VALID FOR CUSTOMERS WITH DISCOUNT.”

C&H Pure Cane Sugar 4lbs

COMMUNITY

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Your Immigration Solution ATTY. ROBERT REEVES DEVIN M. CONNOLLY AND NANCY MILLER A COMMON way to be granted permanent resident status (“Green Card”) in the US is through employment. Temporary work visas receive a lot of attention and publicity, but it is also possible for employers to sponsor foreign workers for green cards. This method has become increasingly common in recent years since many people do not have family members that can petition them.

The route to a green card through employment is a multistep process, and can take anywhere from 6 months to 6 years or longer to complete. When seeking permanent resident status through employment, it is obviously required that a foreign-born person have an employer or prospective employer who is willing to file a petition for them. The petitioner then begins the process by filing a labor certification request with US Department of Labor (“DOL”). This filing is a complex, multi-step process.

The first part of having a labor certification request approved is to obtain a prevailing wage determination from the DOL. The determination is based on the job’s duties and responsibilities, the minimum qualifications necessary to adequately perform the job, and the worksite location. The purpose of the prevailing wage determination is to protect the labor market. By requiring that the salary offered is the “market” salary, foreign-born workers are protected from exploitation and the US workers are protected from losing their jobs to immigrants that are being paid only a fraction of a reasonable salary.

The next step is for the employer to conduct proper recruitment for the position by placing advertisements, post-

Obtaining a Green Card HHS partners with nation’s largest pharmacies through employment to promote Health Insurance Marketplace ing notice of the opportunity, etc. This step is essentially the point of the labor certification process – to demonstrate to the DOL that there are no willing, able, qualified, and available US workers for the position. As part of the process, DOL examines the job duties and education requirements to determine that they are truly necessary for the job offered and that the foreign-born worker is qualified to perform the job. DOL also looks to whether the job is truly open to US workers. As part of that examination DOL compares the job-requirements as stated in the application with the foreign-born worker’s background to determine that the job duties are not tailored to the alien. DOL also investigates whether there is a family relationship between the employer and the jobseeker.

Following the approval of the labor certification request, the employer applies for an Immigrant Petition with the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (“USCIS”). The USCIS will review the petition in conjunction with the employer’s required financial documents and the applicable documents regarding the alien’s qualifications for the offered position.

One major concern is the employer’s ability to pay the prevailing wage. The documentation submitted in support of the petition must be persuasive and convincing. If the supporting documentation does not satisfy CIS’ concerns, it is not required to ask for more or better evidence. It can just deny the request.

If an alien is able to successfully navigate the foregoing steps, then they are well on their way to acquiring lawful permanent residence status in the US. However, if they are residing in the US, it is critical that they remember that they are only eligible for an adjust-

ment to permanent resident status if they are maintaining lawful immigration status at the time their priority date becomes current, or if they are protected

by Section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. A person is protected by Section 245(i) if a qualifying petition or labor certification was filed for them prior to April 30, 2001.

Also, in some instances, a person may be protected based on a qualifying petition or labor certification that was filed for their parents prior to April 30, 2001.

Throughout the US’ history, foreign workers have made significant contributions. The present time is no different as foreign born citizens comprise a large part of the workforce.

Despite the large number of immigrants, though, obtaining a green card through employment is one of the most complex areas of US immigration law. There are many procedural steps that must be closely followed to successfully immigrate to the US, and even the slightest mistake can force you to start the process all over from the beginning. For this reason, it is always advisable for aspiring immigrants and their petitioning employers to retain the services of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who is dedicated solely to the practice of immigration law. *** 8kkp% I\\m\j _Xj i\gi\j\ek\[ Zc`\ekj `e eld\iflj cXe[dXib `dd`^iXk`fe ZXj\j k_Xk _Xm\ j\k e\n gfc`Z`\j i\^Xi[`e^ @EJ XZk`fe Xe[ `dd`^iXekjË i`^_kj% ?`j f]ÔZ\j Xi\ cfZXk\[ `e GXjX[\eX# @im`e\# JXe =iXeZ`jZf# CXj M\^Xj Xe[ DXbXk` :`kp% K\c\g_fe\1 /'' .0,$/''0 <$dX`c1 `dd`^iXk`fe7ii\\m\j%Zfd N\Yj`k\1 nnn%ii\\m\j%Zfd% !!!

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AS the deadline for signing up for coverage starting January 1 approaches, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell today announced that HHS is collaborating with some of the nation’s largest pharmacies to connect consumers with health coverage and encourage enrollment through the Health Insurance Marketplace. CVS Health, Good Neighbor Pharmacy, National Community Pharmacists Association, Rite Aid, Thrifty White Pharmacy and Walgreens are playing an important role in helping individuals across the country find a plan to meet their health care and budget needs.

“We are proud to have thousands of trusted pharmacists and pharmacies working to reach millions of consumers with the information and resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable health coverage this Open Enrollment,” said Secretary Burwell. “This strong participation is further indication that businesses are investing in Open Enrollment because they believe it is good for their business and for their customers.”

Collectively, these national partners represent more than 38,000 pharmacies across the

country. In coordination with HHS and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), pharmacies will have trained enrollment assisters available to work directly with customers in stores, and will also host local enrollment events and distribute educational resources about the health care options available through the Marketplace.

December 15 is the deadline to enroll for health coverage beginning on January 1. Information about the Health Insurance Marketplaces is available at HealthCare.gov or by calling the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. Financial assistance is available for eligible consumers, and more than 7 in 10 returning Marketplace customers will be able to buy a plan for $75 or less a month in premiums after tax credits.

Among the activities taking place at pharmacies across the country: CVS Health In its third year helping customers access insurance information during Marketplace Open Enrollment, CVS Health is providing free insurance information in all of its 7,900 CVS/pharmacy locations, including educational resources and brochures from

numerous health plans in both English and Spanish. In partnership with health insurers offering coverage through the Marketplace, CVS Health will also conduct more than 6,500 health insurance education events in its CVS/pharmacy locations between November 2015 and January 2016, providing customers the opportunity to have one-onone conversations with representatives from health plans available through the Marketplace to understand if they may qualify for financial assistance, discuss plan options and more. Consumers can find a schedule of events here.

CVS/pharmacy is also the first national retail pharmacy to offer Marketplace customers the option to pay their monthly insurance bill using cash, credit or debit card at any of the 7,900 CVS/pharmacy locations across the U.S. Bill Pay at CVS/pharmacy makes it easier for newly insured people, including those who may not have a checking account, to maintain their health insurance. Enrollees in health plans that participate in Bill Pay at CVS/pharmacy will receive their monthly premium bills featuring a customer-specific bar-

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Fueling our kids and the future: School lunch IN the past three decades, much has changed in our food system and society. Schools aren’t purchasing as many fresh foods, yet they have more nutrition requirements to fill. Schools got away from purchasing locally. The number of local farms to purchase edible food from has become scarce.

Recently, my kids invited me to eat lunch at school. Their school lunch menus show what items are locally sourced. Granted, I get to be a farm to school geek for a living, but to me that also meant an average parent would know that locally grown, fresh food was prepared in their school’s kitchen.

Each month seasonal foods are taste-tested in the classroom. Recipes and shopping tips also come home. Considering cuts to food science and ag classes in many schools, or not learning these basic skills at home... some parents simply do not know how to prepare fresh produce. Farm to

School gives us a chance to change this.

When I ate school lunch, I saw a tray of nutritionally dense food. It made me feel good that the school is feeding the kids to perform well.

As a kid growing up in rural America, I could not imagine a world that agriculture and food prep skills weren’t a part of. But, today I see how quickly we are losing these skills. Farm to School is a tool for us to use to provide self-sufficiency and a better health legacy to our future keepers of the food system.

Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, non-profit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues. (Sandra Renner / Center for Rural Affairs, Farm to School Project Specialist)

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Abandonment of US residence

The CTV Files ATTY. JEAN S. TINSAY, ESQ JON and Kate own and operate a successful real estate business in California. In addition to owning a beautiful home, they had acquired several homes and apartment buildings which they rented out. In 2008, when the United States economy was struggling and the real estate business was sluggish, Jon and Kate decided to take a long vacation in the Philippines. While enjoying some rest and recreation, Jon and Kate decided to invest in a condominium development project. The couple initially intended to stay only for two months, but decided to extend their stay for another four months to monitor the progress of the project. Just before they were to return to the US, Kate discovered she was pregnant with twins. Since Kate was already in her early 40s, the pregnancy was a difficult one. Her doctor ordered complete bed rest for the entire duration of

her pregnancy and travelling was an absolute no-no.

Jon and Kate who had been trying to have children for a decade were ecstatic. Per the doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s order, they postponed Kateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trip to the United States and Jon ensured that she be provided with the best possible care. To the relief of the parents, the identical twins were born healthy. Jon who was a US citizen immediately applied and obtained US passports for the twins and made plans for his family to return to the United States. However, by this time, Kate who was a lawful permanent resident had been outside the US for over one year.

A lawful permanent residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absence from the United States for over one (1) year is normally considered abandonment of residence in the US and consequently will bar her entry to the US as a lawful permanent resident.

However, a lawful permanent residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absence from the United States of over one (1) year will not result in abandonment of US residency if the following re-

quirements are met: The alien was a lawful permanent resident at the time of departure from the US. The alien had the intention of returning to the US and has not abandoned this intention; The alien is returning to the US from a temporary visit abroad and, if the stay was protracted, this was caused by reasons beyond the control of the alien.

A lawful permanent resident who has remained outside the US for longer than one (1) year who meets these requirements may be eligible for what is called a Returning Resident Immigrant (â&#x20AC;&#x153;SB-1â&#x20AC;?) visa. The SB-1 visa application is submitted to the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. A consular officer will review the SB-1 visa application and supporting documentation and if approved, this will allow the lawful permanent resident to enter the US and resume permanent residence.

What is important in determining eligibility for the SB-1 visa

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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA (This is a short version of a longer article on logging off and enjoying the moment.) â&#x20AC;Ś I AM picking and choosing from the constant flow of messages in my inbox, only this one below. Some are for laughs, others inform while some can make you think harder or even take action.

Pet peeves are those that are pure drivel and chain emails with a punitive clause, like a curse of bad luck, if you fail to forward.

For malevolent messages and all the rest of the junk from scammers promising riches, simplify your cyberlife and HIT DELETE. DO NOT ENGAGE. Sometimes a golden nugget comes through that deserves to be amplified. So simple, it hits you right between the eyes. I searched for the authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name but like many other pieces flung by anonymous, creative beings in Cyberville, authorship is largely unknown and unclaimed.

To the originator of this metaphor then, whoever you are and wherever you may be, please accept a profound thank you, from

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Hot chocolate â&#x20AC;&#x153;â&#x20AC;Ś Live simply. Love generously.

Care deeply. Speak kindly.â&#x20AC;? the rest of us. Here it is.

THE HOT CHOCOLATE STORY A group of graduates, well established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired. During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives. Offering his guests hot chocolate, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups-porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite -- telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate.

When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Notice that all the nice looking; expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. The cup that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate. In most cases it is

just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink.

What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; but you consciously went for the best cups... And then you began eyeing each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cups.

Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate; your job, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you have does not define, nor change the quality of life you have. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate we have.

The happiest people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the best of everythingâ&#x20AC;Ś They just make the best of everything that they have.

Live simply. Love generously.

Care deeply. Speak kindly.

And enjoy your hot chocolate!

But first, LOG OFF. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL! *** EfkX 9\e\1 Dfe\kk\ 8[\mX DX^cXpX `j JMG f] 8j`Xe AflieXc GlYc`ZXk`fej# @eZ% Kf j\e[ Zfdd\ekj# \$dX`c dfe\kk\%dX^cXpX7 Xj`XeaflieXc`eZ%Zfd

HHS partners with nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest pharmaciesâ&#x20AC;Ś

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code, which can be scanned and paid at CVS/pharmacy without a fee for this service.

Good Neighbor Pharmacy Good Neighbor Pharmacy is helping to share valuable information and resources about 2016 Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment by putting materials in the hands of pharmacists across the country, and promoting nationally with a social media campaign on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. With locations nationwide, Good Neighbor Pharmacyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independent pharmacists can guide their patients as trusted healthcare providers in their local communities.

More than 4,500 pharmacies (Good Neighbor Pharmacy stores and all members of AmerisourceBergenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PSAO, the Elevate Provider Network) received Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Kits. The kits include branded promotional and educational materials: bag stuffers, counter cards, posters/flyers, and a special postcard for Good

Neighbor Pharmacy members.

In addition to the mailed enrollment kit, all 4,500 pharmacies also have access to a Health Insurance Marketplace Digital Marketing Kit, available online, which includes all aforementioned materials, as well as additional branded print pieces, and branded content/images for use on social media and websites. Good Neighbor Pharmacy members also have access to additional marketing materials in Good Neighbor Pharmacyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online custom advertising and marketing resource, Brand Central Station.

Finally an updated publicly available patient-facing website specifically addresses important information for the uninsured.

Patients can download HHS materials, review FAQs, click an â&#x20AC;&#x153;Enroll Nowâ&#x20AC;? button and other direct links to Healthcare.gov, to explore options and even enroll: MyGNP. com/healthcarecoverage.

National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) In its third year as an HHS

!"* ',$ %/ *+ %'- / + '" " '$ * ."* % ) Chair and CEO of TLC Beatrice, LLC Philanthropist

!"$ * $+! & $$& ** ) *',) * & *" '" + " ( & # +,$ &"/ ) &'. $ +' ! - * %, ! ,& "& +! $$)''% * +! / " "& +! ' ) )''% Loida has enjoyed a long career as a successful businesswoman, and she remains just as active today. Bilang miyembro ng halos 20 na taon, she keeps current with AARP publications on health, diet, exercise at iba pang activities that help her enjoy life and live it to the fullest.

Not surprisingly, her boundless energy and generous contributions para sa Filipino community have made her a role model for many. Para kay Loida, walang hanggan ang mga posibilidad and the best is yet to come. AARP offers members a wealth of resources na siguradong makapagbibigay ng saya, sigla at importanteng impormasyon para rin sa inyo. ' $ )& %') -"*"+ )( ') (" ') $$

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partner, NCPA hosted a webinar led by Department officials for community pharmacists about the Health Insurance Marketplaces and Open Enrollment. A recording was then posted online for use by any of the more than 22,000 independent community pharmacies. In addition, NCPA has highlighted in its newsletter and social media platforms information about Open Enrollment and the resources available to community pharmacists.

Rite Aid For the third year in a row, nearly 4,600 Rite Aid pharmacies in 31 states and the District of Columbia are providing customers with resources about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to help them make informed healthcare decisions for them and their families. Rite Aid is providing informational brochures and instore signage and in all locations, Rite Aid pharmacists and associates, including the Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nearly 2,000 Wellness Ambassadors, are assisting customers

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Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ GXik (

FOR many people, attaining US citizenship is the final step in achieving their “American Dream.” After getting a green card, they eagerly count off the years until they are finally eligible to apply for naturalization.

However, for some people, applying for citizenship could cause problems, issues, and even being stripped of their green card and deported/removed.

Applying for citizenship is not always a simple, straightforward task that a person should handle on their own. Instead, they may want to seek the advice or guidance of an attorney.

Here are just some of the many issues or problems a person must consider before filing for naturalization: • Did the person obtain his or her green card lawfully? In some situations, people were able to obtain their green card, even though they were not legally entitled to it.

For example, a person was petitioned by a parent as “single,” but they were already “secretly” married. They were able to get their green card, and now attempt to file for citizenship. In many cases,

Dr. Val’s Dental Views DR. VALERIE

DE LEON

WHO doesn’t love a little sunshine? Not only does it feel fantastic, but it also has numerous health benefits. Sunshine improves our mood, our immune functions, and catalyzes vitamin D production in our bodies.

Vitamin D is important to our healthy smiles Vitamin D supports oral health in two ways: 1. It helps our bodies absorb and utilize calcium. One of vitamin D’s major functions is moderating other vitamins and minerals—including calcium. Calcium fortifies our teeth and supports jaw and bone strength. That’s why we fortify milk (a great source of calcium) with vitamin D.

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Some issues and pitfalls in pursuing US citizenship USCIS digs deep into their case, and can discover the secret marriage in connection with their naturalization application. Not only is their naturalization application denied, but they may be put in removal/deportation because they obtained their green card through fraud or misrepresentation.

• If a person obtained a green card through an employer’s petition, did the person work for that employer at the prevailing wage? Many people obtain their green cards through an employer’s sponsorship (PERM or labor certification). One requirement is a person must work for the employer for a reasonable time after obtaining their green card.

Some people never really worked for the employer who petitioned them, or they quit working for the employer before they adjusted status or get the green card. If a person is applying for naturalization based on an employment – based green card, one of the first questions they will be asked is whether they ever work for the employer. If they did not, or quit before adjusting status, their green card could also be in jeopardy. Similarly, if they were being petitioned at a certain wage (the prevailing wage), but were never paid that wage, it could

also result in problems, as they may be asked to produce their tax returns and pay stubs, documenting they were paid the wage specified in the petition.

• Did the person commit any crime while a green card holder?

After obtaining a green card, a person may have been arrested or convicted of a crime, such as shoplifting, domestic violence, DUI, etc. They may have even pled guilty, as some form of plea deal and later had the conviction expunged. However, certain crimes could make a person ineligible for citizenship, and may even affect their status as a lawful permanent resident. There have been many cases where a green card holder committed a crime, which “woke up” DHS when they filed for naturalization, resulting in them being placed in removal/deportation proceedings. If a person was ever convicted of certain crimes or pled guilty to those crimes, they are still considered convicted, even if they later had the conviction expunged.

As you can see, there are so many issues that could come up in connection with a person’s eligibility for naturalization. In my next article, I will discuss more issues and pitfalls that one may encounter in pursuing his or her

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US Citizenship.

If you have any questions about your past, or eligibility for naturalization, you should definitely seek the advice of an attorney before filing for naturalization. This is because once you file, and USCIS starts digging into your past, you may have dug a hole for yourself. ***

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How a little sunshine HHS partners with nation’s largest pharmacies… helps our teeth G8>< :A) t

This is referenced in numerous studies that have shown greater cavity risk for people living in regions with little sunlight…

Sometimes as much as double the risk.

2. It may help fight periodontal disease. Vitamin D also functions as an anti-inflammatory. Periodontal disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss in adults, and it’s a result of inflammation of the gums due to harmful bacteria.

Several studies have found that people who have high levels of vitamin D are less likely to experience bleeding gums and gum detachment.

It doesn’t take long to get the vitamin D your body needs from the sun. But for those times when you can’t get daily sunlight, you can also obtain vitamin D from these foods: • egg yolks or fatty fish

• fortified milk, soy milk, orange juice and cereals • vitamin D supplements Grab a little sunshine today!

Of course, we need to be careful about how much sun exposure we’re getting. You don’t need to sunbathe all day to get the vitamin D your body needs!

Take this blog post as an excuse to go outside today and drink up a few rays.

Thanks for being a part of our practice family. We appreciate you! *** @] pfl _Xm\ hl\jk`fej# gcj ZXcc ;i% MXc$ \i`\ [\ C\fe Xk -,' -0.Æ0''' fi m`j`k fli n\Yj`k\ Xk nnn%d`ccYiX\jd`c\j%Zfd% J_\ `j n`k_ D`ccYiX\ Jd`c\ :\ek\i cfZXk\[ Xk (, <c :Xd`ef I\Xc# D`ccYiX\ 0+'*'% J_\ `j X d\dY\i f] 8d\i`ZXe 8ZX[\dp f] :fjd\k`Z ;\ek`jkip# 8ZX[\dp f] CXj\i ;\ek`jkip# 8;8# :;8 Xe[ JD:;J% Gc\Xj\ ZXcc ]fi X ]i\\ ZfejlckXk`fe% 8[m\ik`j`e^ Jlggc\d\ek

with general questions and when appropriate, directing them to www.HealthCare.gov. Additionally, Rite Aid is helping to raise awareness on the ACA through its weekly circular, via email and through a dedicated section of www.riteaid.com.

Thrifty White Pharmacy Thrifty White Pharmacy has been engaging their team members in promoting the Health Insurance Marketplace for three years. For example, all current and new pharmacy employees are assigned a web-based training on the ACA and the Health Insurance Marketplace. Thrifty White Pharmacy has a direct link to the Marketplace on www. thriftywhite.com for customers, and a direct link on the company’s intranet portal for direct pharmacy access. Information about the Marketplace is also communicated to customers in Thrifty White Pharmacy’s Com-

munity Health Corner newspaper print ads in most markets served by Thrifty White Pharmacy, and local pharmacists provide voice overs for radio spots in all markets served by Thrifty White Pharmacy. Additionally, brochures and information are placed in all pharmacies and sidewalk signs are placed outside of all pharmacy locations throughout Open Enrollment. Thrifty White Pharmacy also displays videos about the Health Insurance Marketplace on all instore AdFlow television monitors along with Facebook and Twitter postings to help engage customers.

Thrifty White Pharmacy is a participating member of Champions for Coverage.

Walgreens This is the third year in which Walgreens has helped to support Health Insurance Marketplace efforts around enrollment and consumer awareness. Walgreens is helping to educate consumers

about the Health Insurance Marketplace through a number of channels, including digital media, in-store marketing efforts, and participation in community events with trained community leaders and pharmacists. In select states, Walgreens is providing health resource panels on prescription bag receipts to help target cash-paying customers, as well as those within certain demographics who may be likely to be eligible for coverage through the Marketplace.

Walgreens is also collaborating with select regional and national health plans to allow in-store brokers to assist with education and enrollment efforts.

Beginning January 1, Walgreens stores chain-wide will again offer to provide medications to newly enrolled patients who have difficulty using new insurance coverage because they don’t have an ID card or number from their insurer. ■

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SVCF awards $2M to help provide immigrants with legal and supportive services MOUNTAIN VIEW — Silicon Valley Community Foundation has awarded more than $2 million to nonprofit organizations that provide support for undocumented immigrants in Santa Clara County who are eligible for administrative relief in the immigration process.

A total $2,020,000 has been awarded to nine grantee organizations. Grants range in amount

from $10,000 to $1 million.

Earlier this year, Silicon Valley Community Foundation entered into a partnership with Santa Clara County and the City of San José to distribute funding for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Deferred Action for Parents of American and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA) programs.

These programs are designed

by the federal government to provide temporary relief from the threat of deportation to certain groups of undocumented immigrants, including those who were brought to the U.S. as children.

An estimated 50,000 residents of Santa Clara County may be eligible for help under the DACA and DAPA programs. Unfortunately, these residents can fall prey to scams as they pursue help under

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dence of family and social ties in the United States.

In addition, the lawful permanent resident must establish that she intended to stay abroad for a temporary period of time and that the delay in returning to the US was due to reasons beyond her control. The following factors are considered in determining temporary intent: the trip abroad was for a specific purpose, the visit is expected to terminate within a relatively short and predetermined date and the alien expected to return to the

United States as an actual home or place of employment. ***

Abandonment of US…

is the alien’s intent – whether the lawful permanent resident intended to return to the United States after a temporary absence. Examples of documentary evidence that may be submitted to establish that the alien intended to maintain a US residence include: driver’s license, US Income Tax Returns filed for the past years, ownership of real and personal property located in the United States, salary paid by a US employer, children’s enrollment in a US school and evi-

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these programs. SVCF has spent many years helping to develop a network of immigration legal services organizations that provide access to high quality, affordable legal services. These organizations help immigrants with everything from guidance through the citizenship process to lowcost legal representation.

“Given Santa Clara County’s diverse population, where at least 100 languages are spoken and more than 50 percent of residents speak a language other than English at home, the need for accurate information and legal services for our immigrant communities is vital,” said Manuel Santamaría, vice president of strategic initiatives and grantmaking for SVCF. “These grants will provide practical assistance to people and families seeking to improve their lives.”

Among the DACA/DAPA grantees: Services, Immigrant Rights and Education Network, serving as the fiscal representative for the South Bay Legal Immigrant Ser-

vices Network, will receive a grant for $1 million to provide DACA and DAPA education, outreach, screening, document preparation and application assistance to eligible undocumented immigrants in Santa Clara County.

Sacred Heart Community Service will receive a grant for $685,000 to provide a large-scale outreach campaign through a 12-member coalition that will partner with schools, community colleges and community-based organizations.

Because of a federal court order, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is currently only accepting applications from people who are seeking relief under the original DACA program adopted in 2012. But even with the DAPA program and an expanded version of DACA on hold, grantees must continue to provide accurate outreach and education about the programs, visa programs and naturalization services, and must inform the community against fraudulent immigration services and notarios

during this time of uncertainty.

More than one-third of the 2.5 million residents of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties are immigrants and almost two-thirds of those under the age of 18 are children of immigrants. Immigrant entrepreneurs have contributed considerably to innovation and job creation in Silicon Valley, and nearly half the region’s workforce is foreign born.

About Silicon Valley Community Foundation Silicon Valley Community Foundation advances innovative philanthropic solutions to challenging problems. As the largest community foundation in the world, we engage donors and corporations from Silicon Valley, across the country and around the globe to make our region and world better for all. Our passion for helping people and organizations achieve their philanthropic dreams has created a global philanthropic enterprise committed to the belief that possibilities start here. Learn more at siliconvalleycf.org. ■

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Friday, December 18, 2015

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cover story

T he Asian Jo ur n a l SF M A G A Z I NE - D ec ember 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

‘Tis the season of giving: Alternative gift suggestions for this holiday

by MALOU LIWANAG-BLEDSOE / AJPRESS

WE all have to admit that we are all once guilty of recycling gifts. Although it may seem like we have lots of choices, in the end we tend to give the same kind of presents to our family and friends every year. Shopping malls have many things to offer, but with the holiday rush, we might just end up being frustrated with long lines at the counter and crazy crowds who are also trying to do their last minute shopping.

This year, the Asian Journal has a short—but sensible and memorable—list of alternative gifts that you can give to your loved ones.

The gift of knowledge One of the best times to spend the cold nights is to have a cup of hot cocoa, sit on your favorite chair and read. Aside from the usual bestsellers you can find in mainstream bookstores, Arkipelago, The Filipino Bookstore recommends the following books: A Taste of the Philippines by Ghillie Basan and Vilma Laus Classic Filipino recipes made easy, with 70 authentic

Arkipelago books

traditional dishes shown step by step in more than 400 beautiful photographs.

(ISBN 978-1-844760949-0, 180 pages, paperback with flap cover, US$19.99) From Our Table to Yours: A Collection of Filipino Heirloom Recipes & Family Memories by Angelo Comsti Treasured recipes handed down from generation to generation.

(ISBN 978-981-4398-56-5, 150 pages, paperback with flap cover, US$28.00) Four Sparrows: A Tale of Race and Survival in the California Gold Rush by Daniel C. Roddick In 1850, Tomas travels from the Philippines to strike in rich in the California gold rush as a subconscious way to overcome racial barriers. In his struggle to gain legitimacy he progresses through various stages of racial identity development. He is not alone in this regard. John, an American, has remained in California after the Mexican War to police the camps. Cath has arrived from Ireland to escape her own experience with oppression. Jungdoo, from

China, suppresses a painful past brought on by his own cultural hegemony. All fight for legitimacy in an effort to continue their own way of life, at the risk of not living at all.

(ISBN 979-150851-789-4, 300 pages, paperback, US$21.95) Cool Don’t Live Here No More: A Letter to San Francisco by Tony Robles In Cool Don’t Life Here No More, Tony Robles sings the music of the San Francisco Streets—that rhythmic sound that is being lost and that some pretend never existed. Through honest humility and with crisp magic, Tony gifts us the food and courage of his poetry, a life “tattooed on the tongue”. A pensive, penetrating study of the city that is being washed away but whose “smell ain’t never gonna come out.” Benjamin Bac Sierra, Author of Barrio Bushido (ISBN 978-1-943209-071, 180 pages, paperback, US$16.00) Legions of Boom: Filipino American Mobile DJ Crews in the San Francisco Bay Area by Oliver Wang

Sun Tropics gift basket

“As a writer and scholar Oliver Wang is relentlessly insightful and compulsively readable.

With Legions of Boom he has created something indispensable - a singular document of a forgotten yet influential era in West Coast hi-hop and dance music, a rare and rich account of protean Asian American creativity, and a subtle, poetic work of ethnography.” - Jeff Chang, Author of Who We Be: The Colorization of America (ISBN 978-0-82235890-9, 220 pages, paperback,US$25.95) To Love as Aswang: Songs, Fragments and Found Objects

by Barbara Jane Reyes The Philippine Aswang is mythic, monstrous creature which has, since colonial times, been associated with female transgression, scapegoating, and social shaming, known in Tagalog as hiya. In the 21st century, and in diaspora, she manages to endure. Barbara Jane Reyes’ To Love As Aswang, the poet and a circle of Filipino American women grapple with what it means to live as a Filipina, or Pinay, in a world that has silenced, dehumanized, and broken the Pinay body.

These are poems of Pinay tragedy and perseverance, of

Delano Manongs

reappropriating monstrosity and hiya, sung in polyphony and hissed with forked tongues.

(ISBN 978-0-9763316-8-1, 90 pages, paperback, US$15.95) The Brothers Luna: Madmen or Geniuses by Jules Delgallego Two brothers. One cause. Both willing to die for the freedom of the Philippines from foreign rule. The Brothers Luna is a novel on historical facts intertwined with a compelling story of romance, passion friendship, intrigue, murder and espionage, war and the arts.

(ISBN 978-149-479-1261,420 pages, paperback, US$21.95) (Arkipelago Books, The Filipino Bookstore is located at 1010 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. For more information or inquiries, log on to www.arkipelagobooks.com or call (415) 553-8185.

The gift of health and food The holiday is all about food of course. However, for those who are want to give more than the usual peppermint bark, cookies and hot chocolate, why not consider a basket of natural fruit juices and products? SunTropics have a wide array of fruit products that you can choose from like their Pure Calamansi

juice, Mango and Soursop, Coconut Water and dried fruits.

All their products are made with real fruit puree, and definitely, no high fructose syrup is used. SunTropics products are available at all 99 Ranch supermarkets, Seafood City and Costco Northern California branches. (Sample gift basket cost is $27).

The gift of Fil-Am history Consider giving a piece of Fil-Am history to your family and friends this holiday season by gifting them a DVD copy of the Emmy-nominated documentary, The Delano Manongs: Forgotten Heroes of the United Farm Workers Movement.

As told by director Marissa Aroy, the documentary positions the Great Grape Pickers’ Strike as a “last stand” for decent wages and working conditions. The manongs by mid-60s had been tolling in the farmlands and service industries of the West Coast for over 40 years but have been prevented from establishing families or owning property. The Strike, organized by Filipinos involved with the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee (AWOC), was seen as a bold move for economic dignity.

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features SF3 T h e As ian Jou r n al S F MAGAZ IN E – De ce mbe r 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

What’s on a Filipino Table on Christmas Eve?

By AJPRESS

KUMAIN ka na ba? (Have you eaten?)

In the Philippines, asking this question is tantamount to saying Hi or Hello to somebody. Filipinos love to eat, and the smart phones and social media have only helped in proving that. If in the past people would gather and pray before a meal, now they transform into foodies searching for that perfect angle of any food served in front of them before taking a snapshot.

Although times have changed, what can be seen on a Filipino table during noche buena or on Christmas Eve has practically remained the same.

After hearing the mass and completing the Simbang Gabi for some, the entire family gathers around the table like the knights of King Arthur, all in preparation for a palatable battle.

While dining customs in the Philippines do not usually adhere to the appetizer-entréedessert format of the West, we have organized the following Filipino Christmas foods to fit the menu of our kababayans abroad, particularly those second and third generations of Pinoys who grew up in the United States.

Appetizer • Castañas – These are, simply, roasted chestnuts. The smell of these shelled delicacies is enough to give any

Christmas ham

Pinoy that Christmas feeling associated with the malamig na simoy ng hangin. For some, the essence of eating the castañas is in the peeling, so savor that moment.

• Macaroni Salad – A small serving of this chilled pasta delight is enough to tickle those taste buds and ready them for the bigger treats ahead. Just be sure not to consume too much of this as it might ruin your appetite and lose interest in other Christmas cuisines.

• Keso de Bola – Literally, a ball of cheese. This is actually an Edam or a semihard cheese that originated in the Netherlands. This can be paired with any wine of your choice or eaten together with the Christmas ham.

Entrée • Hamon – The Christmas ham (hamon for most Pinoys) is considered the star and center of the table. Every grocery store is filled with boxes of this cured meat, made in different sizes, shapes, and types. But a typical ham must always, always, have a special sauce poured on top of it.

• Lechon – This roasted pig that usually comes with a red, succulent apple in its mouth is never absent in any special occasion being celebrated by Filipinos, so it’s only natural that this meat be served alongside other “sinful” food served on the Christmas table.

• Relleno – A special dish that is quite hard to prepare, this is a stuffed cuisine usually made with either a fish (a bangus or milkfish) or a chicken.

Put this in any dining experience and automatically it turns any meal into something extra special.

• Paella – This is another meal that is difficult to prepare. Thanks to the Spanish colonizers, Filipinos learned to cook rice in a special way, what with all the rich ingredients mixed altogether to bring that exquisite blend, not to mention that it connoted wealth for some families.

Dessert • Leche Flan – Another Spanish-influenced food, this dessert is more commonly known by outsiders as crème caramel or caramel custard.

The heavenly sweetness and awesome creaminess of the leche flan makes one ask for more and more... and more.

• Halaya – A Filipino dessert made of purple yam, many call it as simply ube.

Westerners are probably more familiar with the Japanese taro. Well, this is its close relative, and the taste is relatively the same—sweet, creamy, and extremely satisfying.

• Fruit Salad – In the Philippines, a fruit salad is a mix of all-purpose cream, condensed milk, and tropical fruits easily both in tin cans and is usually

Hot chocolate

called fruit cocktail. To make it special, some add coconut meat shreds, nata de coco, kaong, and cherries.

Drinks • Tsokolate – Hot chocolate is a Filipino favorite during Bibingka Christmas Eve. A local recipe is called tablea, which is Spanish for tablet. It is hard chocolate melted into perfect viscosity and mixed using a tool called batirol, which is believed to bring out the flavor of the cocoa.

• Salabat – This is ginger tea, a strong brew that many Filipinos believe can help in Keso de Bola soothing any throat malady and improve one’s singing voice. It is usually given free of charge when you buy puto bumbong or bibingka.

Breakfast/Snacks • Puto Bumbong – Usually eaten after the Simbang Gabi, this is a deep purple, seasonal rice cake made from galapong or sticky rice. The flour mixture is placed in a tube of bamboo or bumbong and cooked through steam. It is then served with margarine, Puto bumbong sugar, and sesame seeds.

• Bibingka – A close friend of the puto bumbong, this rice cake is yellowish orange in color and is cooked using an improvised oven—two clay pots filled with burning charcoals. A special bibingka is one that is “baked” with cheese and itlog na pula or salted egg.

Fruit salad

Photos courtesy of Balikbayan Magazine

Fruit cake

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T he As ian Jour n a l SF M A G A Z I NE - D ec ember 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

Filipina beauty queens celebrity world ready and determined to win international titles

By Ferdie Villar TWO Filipina beauties are ready to face the international audience and determined to win the respective titles they are vying for.

First up is Pia Wurtzbach, who is the Philippine representative in the 64th Miss Universe pageant.

The 26-year-old beauty queen recently answered questions from fans via the official Miss Universe Facebook page.

When asked what makes her stand out among other contenders, her reply was, “Definitely my determination.”

Pia also shared that her joining Miss Philippines three years in a row shows how much she really want to win the crown. She competed in the Binibining Pilipinas -- the orga-

nization that determines who the Philippines will send in the Miss Universe pageant -- twice before winning the top crown earlier this year.

“I didn’t let anyone or anything stop me from getting here. I’m so glad I never lost my drive because turns out, I was right! Now I’m finally wearing the Philippine sash in the most prestigious pageant in the world. And I couldn’t be happier! So kids, if you have a dream, don’t give up!”

Currently in Las Vegas, Nevada for the pageant, Pia, along with 79 other candidates, were part of 2015 Miss Universe preliminary competition last Wednesday, Dec. 16.

The live pageant happens at the Planet Hollywood Resort

and Casino in Las Vegas on December 20 (December 21, Monday morning, Philippine time). *** Another beauty all set and hoping to bring home another international crown is Hillarie Parungao, who is currently in China for the Miss World 2015 pageant to be held at the Crown Beauty Theater on Saturday, Dec. 19.

The 24-year-old Hillarie hopes to become the country’s second Miss World titleholder after actress Megan Young won the crown in 2013.

“I will say that I’m 100-percent ready since the time that I won the competition because this is really something that I want to do for the Philippines, Pia Wurtzbach, who is the Philippine representative in the 64th Miss Universe pageant, is ready and determined to win the crown. The grand coronation will be on Dec. 20 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Leren Mae Bautista hopes to bring home the Miss Tourism Queen of the Year Former Club Royale Queen Claire Viray is the overall Chairman of the Club title as she competes for the crown on New Yearʼs Eve, Dec. 31 in Kuala Lumpur, Royale Noche Buena party on Thursday, December 24 at the Navarro residence Malaysia. in San Francisco.

for myself and my family so I’m really putting a lot of effort, dedication and my whole heart into it,” she said in a interview with the press before leaving for the competition. *** On New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, Leren Mae Bautista is also hoping to bring pride to the Philippines as she competes in the Miss Tourism Queen of the Year which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31.

Leren, 22, a part-time model and a marketing management graduate of Colegio de San Juan de Letran competed in this year’s Mutya ng Pilipinas beauty contest and also won special awards such as Best in Swimsuit and Best in Long Gown.

At present, the Philippines has won four international titles this year.

Last October, Anne Lorraine Colis was crowned Miss Globe in Toronto, Canada.

Transgender Trixie Maristela won against 26 other contestants in the Miss International Queen 2015 held in Bangkok, Thailand.

Then last month, Filipino nurse Cindy Madumma was named Miss Scuba International 2015 in a pageant held in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. And just last Dec. 5, Angelia Ong of Manila was crowned Miss Earth in Vienna, Austria.

Good luck and all the best these beauties! Make the Philippines and Filipinos proud!

Another beauty all set and hoping to bring home another international crown is Hillarie Parungao, who is currently in China for the Miss World 2015 pageant to be held at the Crown Beauty Theater on Saturday, Dec. 19.

Mrs. Rachel Forneas Satorre, the Hermana Mayor of the Grand Fiesta of the Nuestro Senior Padre Jesus Nazareno on Saturday, January 9; is shown in photo with the other devotees of the miraculous image: (L-R) Brenda Padilla, Mrs. Satorre, Ora Seyler, Shirley Ordoveza and Flor Mayapis.

Pastor Ricardo of Hayward and Filipino singer for all occasions and President of Forever Young Club of Northern California Tess Gregorio have joined together to sing Christmas carols to different families so that they can raise funds for their civic projects next year. Shown with the two community leaders are the officers and members of their respective organizations.

CDR Randy Cruz (2nd from left), perhaps the first to command squadron VAW 117 (World Famous Wallbangers) is shown with his family (L-R) Ian Cruz, Antonia Cruz, Master C. Baumbach, Dana Cruz and Judge Cruz.

‘Tis the season of giving...

From Page SF2

Legendary labor organizer and farmworker Larry Itliong appealed to Mexican laborer and leader of the National Farm Workers Association to join the strike, which they won five years later. That the Filipinos who instigated the years-long action found themselves marginalized from this momentous victory is a sad footnote to this chapter of labor history, one that director Aroy seeks to rectify.

DVD copy is only $25 and can be shipped directly to your gift recipients. To order, log on to http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u= b37c4704f1a85 4fad4a973a6c&id=39e6c2534c.

The gift of compassion As we gather around the table to give thanks for all our blessings, let us not forget that there are people in other parts of the world whose daily struggle is finding food to eat.

This season, why not consider donating to a worthy cause whose main goal is to bring Noche Buena dinner packs to poor families in the Philippines?

Cassie Eng has been working with the non-profit Project Pearls since was 6 and has become increasingly involved in more projects since then. This summer she did her second Bag of Dreams Challenge and delivered 600 backpacks filled with school supplies to the kids of Project Pears. Last year she

Cassie Eng with the children who will benefit her fundraising campaign with Project Pearls to deliver Noche Buena dinner packs.

gave out 300 bags to the Badjao kids in Lucena.

She has opened a fundraising page to be able to donate 167 Noche Buena dinner packs to the families (as part of Project Pearls’ 1000 dinner pack goal). A minimum of $10 or PhP 500 donation will feed a family of 6–8 with a meal of spaghetti noodles and sauce, canned meat loaf, bread, champorado (porridge) mix and hot chocolate mix.

Cassie has also been selling Christmas ornaments made by

the mothers of Project Pearls to help fund her project. This is a perfect gift for those who want to donate in lieu of presents, which includes a note saying that a donation has been made in the name of the receiver.

Cassie’s Noche Buena project is trying to raise $10,000 and still has 14 days remaining until the campaign ends on December 31, 2015.

To donate and/or more information, log on to: http:// www.projectpearls.causevox. com/cassie-eng

T h e As ian Jou r n al S F MAGAZ IN E - De ce mbe r 1 8 , 2 0 1 5

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