San Francisco Edition -- December 23 -- 29, 2016

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

w w w. a s i a n Volume 15 - No. 52 • 3 Sections – 22 Pages

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Palace: No need to probe Duterte ‘murder’ claim

by NESTOR

CORRALES Inquirer.net

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS. Thousands of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Canada, the Middle East and the United States have started arriving at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for the Christmas holidays, officials said Sunday, Dec. 18. More personnel of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) and Bureau of Customs (BOC) were assigned at the NAIA to assist the arriving passengers.

Rudy Santos/Philstar.com

USA

DATELINE Obama signs bill awarding Congressional Gold Medal to Filipino World War II vets FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

PRESIDENT Barack Obama has signed into law a bill recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of over 260,000 Filipinos and Filipino Americans who fought alongside allied forces during World War II. The legislation approved on Thursday, December 15 awards the Congressional Gold Medal—the nation’s highest civilian honor— to veterans whose service had been largely dismissed by prior acts of Congress.

“The Filipino veterans of World War II overcame many challenges in their fight for compensation, family reunification, and verification of wartime service,” said Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI), one of the lead sponsors of the legislation, in a statement published on Thursday.

Duterte: ‘US a land of hypocrisy’ PNP chief seeks SIOSON AJPress

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, December 19, hit the United States anew, calling it a “land of hypocrisy” for its criticism of the Philippine government’s deadly crackdown on illegal drugs.

For the past previous months since Duterte took office, the United States has reiterated several times its concern over the alleged spate of extrajudicial killings related to the Philippine government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.

Records from the Philippine National Police (PNP) show that around 6,000 people have been killed in the campaign from July 1 to December 12—with 2,000 people slain during legitimate police operations while the remaining 4,000 were killed in

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by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

President Rodrigo Duterte

James Taylor cancels Manila concert over PH drug war

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

Electoral College officially declares Trump presidency

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forgiveness for drug war deaths

by DANA

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PRESIDENT-elect Donald Trump on Monday, December 19, has received the necessary 270 votes in the Electoral College, officially securing the presidency.

Each state’s electors convened in their respective states to officially cast their ballots.

When all the votes were counted, Trump received 304, while Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton received 227.

When the initial votes came in on Election Day on November 8, Trump had won 306 electoral votes while Clinton won 232.

In Texas, there were 10 electors who ended up voting for a candidate other than who they were expected to vote for: eight who were supposed to vote for Clinton and two were supposed to vote for Trump.

MALACAÑANG on Wednesday, Dec. 21, brushed off the need for an investigation on President Rodrigo Duterte’s claim of killing criminals in the past.

“It’s already been under scrutiny in the past, but it has already been addressed as far as we know,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a Palace briefing.

Abella was reacting to the United Nation’s High Commissioner on Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein’s statement, saying Philippine authorities should investigate President Rodrigo Duterte for murder, after he said that he had personally killed suspected criminals.

In a previous speech, Duterte said he used to ride a big bike when he was still

AWARD-winning American singer-songwriter James Taylor announced his decision to cancel his upcoming concert in Manila next year due to the alleged spate of extrajudicial killings related to Philippine administration’s war on drugs.

Through his Facebook and Twitter accounts, Taylor said that he has to make a “political stand.”

“It saddens me to cancel our concert there. I don’t think of my music as being particularly political but sometimes one is called upon to make a political stand,” he wrote.

Taylor’s concert in Manila, scheduled in February 2017, was supposed to be the last leg of his Asia Pacific tour.

In his post, Taylor said that “for a sovereign nation to prosecute and punish, under the law, those responsible for the illegal trade in

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DAYS before Christmas, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa asked the public for their prayers and forgiveness for deaths related to the Philippine government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.

Speaking before police officers and their families on Monday, December 19, Dela PNP chief Ronald Dela Rosa Rosa also asked for their tolerance and understanding if the killings continue.

“I would like to ask everyone, ang hinihingi kong gift sa iyo ay pagdasal niyo kami, ang inyong mahal sa buhay, ang inyong kapulisan, na sana patawarin kami ni Lord dahil dito sa mga namamatay sa war on drugs (the gift I’m asking for is that you pray for us, for your loved ones, for the police force, that the Lord forgive us for those who were killed in the war on drugs),” Dela Rosa said during the opening of PNP’s Christmas party for Camp Crame-based officers and their family in Quezon City.

Since President Rodrigo Duterte took office, records from the PNP show that around 6,000 people have been killed from July 1 to Decem-

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2016 remittances projected to reach ‘all-time high’ of $28B According to OWWA Chief Hans Cacdac, the Department of Finance (DOF) also announced during the OWWA board meeting THE overseas Filipino workers (OFW) on Tuesday that there was an increase in remittances is forecasted to reach an all- the remittances of OFWs during the 3rd time high of $28 in 2016, as reported by quarter of 2016.

“I heard $24-B as of the 3rd quarter and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). u PAGE A3

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

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a city mayor patrolling the streets.

He admitted he had killed at least three “hostage-takers” who were responsible for taking hostage and killing an Australian missionary.

Abella clarified the President’s statement, saying it was a legitimate police operation.

“Again, let me just remind one and all, that the incident referred to by the President was actually covered by media and it was legitimate police and action and that the UN Commissioner is free to express his views regarding that matter.

But we ourselves have already attended to the matter at hand,” he said.

Asked if the government would file a formal letter of response to Hussein’s comments, Abella said “It’s his opinion.

Basically, he’s just airing his opinion regarding the matter.” ■

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DECEMBER 23-29, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

From the Front Page

Duterte: ‘US a land of…

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extrajudicial or vigilante-style killings, most reportedly conducted by unknown suspects.

“America is a land of hypocrisy. There are 40,000 Americans killed every year, drug-related,” Duterte said in a speech before a group of exemplary government employees.

At the same time, the president also reiterated that the country could survive even without the help of the U.S., following the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s (MCC) decision to reportedly withhold its $434-million financial assistance to the Philippines.

Earlier this week, the MCC, a U.S. poverty reduction agency, said that it has “deferred a vote on the re-selection of the Philippines for compact development, subject to a further review of

concerns around rule of law and civil liberties.”

After a $434-million package in 2011, MCC said it has withheld its second aid due to “significant concerns around rule of law and civil liberties.”

On the other hand, the country could lose more foreign assistance if Duterte continues to impose conditions on Agnes Callamard, a United Nations (UN) special rapporteur seeking to conduct an investigation in the country on the extrajudicial killings linked to the drug war, according to Ramon Casiple, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines (UP).

Last August, Callamard lambasted Duterte for reportedly giving the Filipino people the “license to kill” drug suspects in the country.

This has prompted the presi-

dent to invite her to come to the Philippines and investigate.

However, her visit comes with the following conditions: she should have a public debate with Duterte, who in turn should be able to ask the UN special rapporteur his own questions, and she should take an oath to “confirm her intention to be truthful.”

Callamard, however, said in a statement that these conditions set by the Philippines were “inconsistent with the Special Rapporteur Code of Conduct and Terms of Reference for country visits.”

Casiple noted that former President Ferdinand Marcos blocked a UN fact-finding investigation in relation to the assassination of former senator Benigno Aquino Jr. in 1983, which resulted in the cutting of some foreign aid and the downgrading of the Philippines’ credit ratings. n

need to address),” he added.

The PNP chief also noted that although Duterte hates seeing his fellow countrymen dying, the president “loves peace-loving Filipinos so much” that he would rather have the government kill drug personalities to save innocent people.

Even with the international and local criticism, the government will not back down from its anti-illegal drugs campaign.

“Prangkahan tayo (Let’s be frank). While I am begging for forgiveness for what is happening right now, I am also begging your indulgence to please understand if the killings will continue, but we will not stop our war on drugs,” he said.

He then added, “Hangga’t nandyan ‘yung problema (While the problem exists), we will continue confronting that problem.

Hindi po mahihinto ito (This will not stop). We cannot guarantee you na walang mamamatay dahil (that nobody will die because) in every action, there is a corresponding reaction.”

Meanwhile, the latest survey from Social Weather Stations (SWS) – conducted from December 3 to 6 – showed that 8 out of 10 Filipinos were worried that they, or someone they know, might fall victim to extrajudicial killings in connection with the administration’s war on drugs.

Despite the worry, the same survey also revealed that Duterte garnered a “very good” net satisfaction rating.

According to the poll, Duterte scored a +63 net satisfaction, just a one point down compared to the previous survey conducted last September.

UN: Duterte killings ‘constitute murder’ Following Duterte’s earlier confession that he had ‘personally’ killed drug suspects before, the United Nations (UN) on Tuesday, December 20, asked the Philippine authorities to probe the president for his claims.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (CHR) Zeid Ra’ad

SHINING, SHIMMERING, SPLENDID. It is full of lights and Santa Clauses, thus this house along Policarpio St. in Mandaluyong City draws dozens of visitors every night. The house has become a tourist attraction in the city every December.

Roger Ranada/Manilatimes.net

PNP chief seeks forgiveness for drug… Obama signs bill awarding Congressional…

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ber 12 in relation to the government’s policy on narcotics. The crackdown was Duterte’s main campaign promise during the presidential election.

Dela Rosa, however, reiterated that of the 6,000 recorded deaths, only over 2,000 were killed in police operations while the remaining were “deaths under investigation” or vigilantestyle killings.

“Meaning, maraming nakisakay sa ating war on drugs, maraming sumabay. ‘Yan dapat ang ma-address natin and we are working on that (This means that there are many who rode on our war on drugs; many went along at the same time. That’s what we

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The Rescission Act of 1946 barred Filipino soldiers from receiving veterans’ benefits awarded by measures enacted by the U.S. government after the end of WWII. It also officially labeled their contributions as inactive service, according to the Filipino American National Historical Society.

In 2009, a portion of the federal economic stimulus package gave surviving Filipino veterans a one-time lump sum of $15,000 for citizens and $9,000 for noncitizens.

“After enduring 75 years of injustice and humiliation, our Filipino World War II veterans regained their honor and dignity,” Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret.), the chairman of the Filipino Veterans Recognition Project (FilVetREP), said in a statement released on Thursday.

Decades after their service ended, fewer than 18,000 Filipino veterans are still alive to personally celebrate the acknowledgment of their sacrifices. “…[T]his recognition is a testament to each and every one of our Filipino WWII veterans who earned and deserve their place amongst our greatest generation,” Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) said in a statement. “To our Filipino veterans, their families, and all who worked so hard to make u PAGE A3 today a reality, maraming sal-

President Barack Obama

amat sa inyong lahat.”

The pair of companion bills submitted to Congress in June of 2015 and eventually signed into law on Thursday was introduced by Hirono in the Senate and Gabbard in the House of Representatives. The Senate version won unanimous approval on Wednesday, July 13.

Its counterpart passed in the House on Wednesday, November 30.

“We welcome this terrific news and extend our appreciation anew to all the advocates and supporters of the bill at the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate,” said Minister Patrick Chuasoto, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, in a statement. “This gold medal

is a fitting tribute to our veterans’ sacrifice, courage, and strength.

From ordinary civilians to defenders of free nations, these men and women deserve our deepest respect and gratitude.”

Another bill resubmitted to Congress in May, the Filipino Veterans Fairness Act, would officially recognize the active service of those Filipinos who took part in allied military operations.

It would also give them full access to programs and benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Both Gabbard and Hirono said they would work with FilVetREP to organize Congressional Gold Medal ceremonies.

The signing of this bill comes after a series of actions earlier this year to give some recognition and benefits to the Filipino veterans.

The California State Board of Education recently approved curriculum changes of the state’s high schools to incorporate more information about Filipinos’ roles in the war in Grade 11 U.S. History lesson plans.

In the summer, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rolled out a new family-based immigration program for Filipino WWII veterans and their families called the Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program. (Eric Anthony Licas/AJPress)

James Taylor…

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drugs is, of course, understandable, even commendable.” “[B]ut recent reports from the Philippines of summary executions of suspected offenders without trial or judicial process are deeply concerning and unacceptable to anyone who loves the rule of law,” he remarked.

He then apologized to the Filipinos for “any inconvenience or disappointment” his decision may have caused.

Taylor, however, clarified that his performance in Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand will push through.

Following the announcement of concert cancellation in the Philippines, Magdalo Representative Gary Alejano said in a statement that the artist’s remark “only shows international perception about our country particularly on the war against drugs.”

“The rising deaths are alarming and cannot be denied. This perception is also shared at home as 8 out of 10 Filipinos in one of the surveys are worried that they or their friends will fall victims to EJK (extrajudicial killings),” Alejano added.

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 23-29, 2016

Women doctors may be better for patients’ health

by Shefali luthra Kaiser Health News

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo shows a P1,000 bill with the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte. The BSP on Tuesday, Dec. 20, released an inaugural 27 million pieces of Philippine peso bills in time for cash gifts during the holidays.

Rene H. Dilan/Manilatimes.net

PNP chief seeks forgiveness for drug…

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Al Hussein called on Philippine authorities to “demonstrate their commitment to upholding the rule of law and their independence from the executive by launching a murder investigation.”

“Such acts directly contravene the rights enshrined in Article III of the Philippine Constitution.

The killings described by President Duterte also violate international law, including the right to life, freedom from violence

and force, due process and fair trial, equal protection before the law, and innocence until proven guilty. As a government official, if he encouraged others to follow his example, he may also have committed incitement to violence,” Al Hussein said.

He pointed out that it’s “unthinkable for any functioning judicial system not to launch investigative and judicial proceedings when someone has openly admitted being a killer.”

Last week, Duterte claimed

James Taylor cancels…

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Since President Rodrigo Duterte took office, records from the Philippine National Police (PNP) show that around 6,000 people have been killed in the campaign from July 1 to December 12—with 2,000 people slain during legitimate police operations while the remaining 4,000 were killed in extrajudicial or vigilante-style killings, most reportedly conducted by unknown suspects.

The war on drugs, which has been among Duterte’s main campaign promises during the presidential election last May, has earned the administration condemnation from both local and international human rights groups, such as the United Nations (UN) and Amnesty International (AI).

The PNP, on its part, said in a statement that it respects Taylor’s decision.

“The PNP respects the artist’s decision. However, we cannot fault him for basing such decision on incorrect information about our country’s peace and order situation,” PNP spokesperson Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos told reporters.

Carlos said that coming to the Philippines will be “a firsthand opportunity to prove for himself that there is no alarming EJKs (extrajudicial killings) happening in the country.”

“At the end of the day, it is a loss for him to experience the warmth and hospitality of the music-loving Filipino audience and also earn his purse from the concert,” the PNP spokesperson added. n

Electoral College officially…

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As expected, all 55 electors from California, a staunch blue state, voted for Clinton.

In a ceremony in the state Assembly chambers, the electors cast their votes. The mood around the chambers was “muted, even a bit glum”, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.

“Today’s solemnity and formality reminds us that in our nation, American greatness and American independence, rests on a foundation of law,” Assemblyman Ken Cooley (D-Cordova), who lead the ceremony, said in the chambers.

Flaw in the system?

Although Trump won more electoral votes, he still trails Clinton in the popular vote (individual vote) by about 3 million votes as of press time, which raised concerns over the validity of the Electoral College.

Lawmakers — including Senators Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and former Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Bernie Sanders (IVt.) — have proposed eliminating the Electoral College entirely and rely on the popular vote to select a president.

“If the Electoral College had selected any other person than Trump, then I would’ve believed it had proven its value as a safeguard to protect American citizens from someone unfit to lead us as our President,” New Yorkbased Filipino-American activist Steven Raga told the Asian Journal in an email.

“And even though it does not necessarily mean the current

President-elect Donald Trump

system in place could not do so in the future, the results from yesterday’s vote leaves me unconfident in utilizing the Electoral College for future elections and am open to its possible dissolution,” Raga added.

Singing a similar tune to those who fear a Trump presidency, Raga added that the system did not work in the interests of the American majority. Of the upcoming administration, Raga envisioned an apocalyptic future with lesser opportunities for “people of color, women, and those of certain religious backgrounds.”

Despite wide disapproval of the results, Trump’s camp still believes it won the election fair and square, and celebrated the reality television star’s incoming administration.

Trump’s running mate Vice

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2016 remittances projected…

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we are expected to hit $28-B at the end of the year which is an all-time high,” Cacdac said in a press conference on Wednesday, December 21.

Cacdac attributed the increase in remittances mostly to the money sent by Filipinos who were based in the Middle East and the United States.

“Kasi kung titingnan niyo ang BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) data, makikita doon, matetrace doon, kung kaninong bangko ipinadala at usually nauuwi yun sa Middle East and then yung mga Filipino din natin, kababayan natin, sa

United States (Because if you look at the BSP data, you can trace the bank and usually it lead to the Middle East and to our fellow Filipinos in the US),” he noted.

On the other hand, the yearend remittances in 2015 has reached to $25.6 billion, as previously revealed by the BSP. At the same time, Cacdac said that around 100,000 to 150,000 Filipino workers were expected to return to the Philippines during the Christmas season.

According to him, the rate is the usual figure of returning Filipinos during Christmas and New Year season. n

that he had killed drug suspects when he was still the mayor of Davao City.

“I know it because—I am not trying to pull my own chair—in Davao I used to do it personally. Just to show to the [policemen] that if I can do it, why can’t you?” Duterte said in a speech on Monday night, December 12, in Malacañang. n

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WHEN a patient goes to the best hospital, he or she usually hopes for a doctor who is knowledgeable and experienced.

Something else to wish for? A woman physician.

That’s because female doctors may on average be better than their male counterparts at treating patients in the hospital and keeping them healthy longterm, according to findings published Monday in JAMA Internal Medicine.

The study, conducted by a team of researchers at Harvard, examined a random sample of Medicare patients hospitalized between January 2011 and December 2014 treated by general internists. Overall, the researchers scrutinized more than 1.5 million hospitalizations, controlling for differences in hospitals and patient cases.

Their conclusion: Patients who saw a female doctor were less likely to die within 30 days of leaving the hospital. They were also less likely to get readmitted within a one-month span of their initial discharge.

“Women physicians are more likely to do evidence-based medicine, and follow clinical guidelines,” noted Ashish Jha, a professor at the Harvard School of Public Health and one of the study’s co-authors. “They are

more likely to communicate in a way patients report is more effective.”

And those tendencies, it seems, result in healthier patients.

To be sure, there’s a longheld notion that patients often consider gender when choosing a doctor. But this is the first to suggest that, for patients of all identities, female physicians may be more effective.

The findings come as hospitals are increasingly pressed to figure out ways to keep patients healthier, and for longer. The 2010 health law restructured how they get paid so that they’re rewarded for patients’ long-term health, and penalized when patients get readmitted. And while the Trump administration has vowed to repeal the law, analysts say many of those payment reforms — which enjoy bipartisan support — are expected to stick around.

With such incentives in play, hospitals may now see more value in female doctors — who, research has found, are consistently paid less than their male counterparts and less likely to get promoted.

“Understanding characteristics that are somehow associated with higher quality of care, and lower cost, is important in this era,” said Yusuke Tsugawa, a physician and research associate at Harvard’s school of

public health, and the study’s lead author. Hospitals, trying to improve their bottom lines, “might look at their female doctors slightly differently — as a more valuable professional in the team.”

Put another way: Paying female doctors less than men isn’t just unfair, Jha said. It’s actually inefficient.

“There’s a little craziness around it,” he said. “The people who seem to provide somewhat better care are the ones who are getting paid less. I think that makes very little sense.”

That’s the idea behind an oped published in in conjunction with the study. It argues that the paper’s findings suggest hospitals serious about improving patient health should invest in improving female salaries and other benefits, so that they’re comparable with those of male doctors.

Still, it’s unclear why this difference emerges, or even how meaningful it might be. The study’s conclusions suggest women are better about communication and following rules in terms of how they practice medicine.

But that’s all conjecture, noted Anna Parks, an internal medicine resident at the University of California-San Francisco and the op-ed’s principal author.

“It’s pretty speculative right

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DECEMBER 23-29, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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Fil-Am activists urge release of political prisoners in PH by eric

anthony licaS AJPress

MORE than a dozen FilipinoAmerican activists rallied outside the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles on Monday, December 19, calling for the release of hundreds of political prisoners affiliated with leftist rebels.

The protest was sponsored by the Southern California chapter of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN), which identifies itself as the information bureau of the Philippine National Democratic movement.

Participants in the rally say President Rodrigo Duterte has failed to fulfill earlier pledges to free 400 members of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

“Why is taking so long to fulfill these promises?” Bayan USA’s Secretary-General, Nikole Cababa asked of the Philippine government on Monday. “[Duterte] has every power to grant general amnesty.”

Duterte had referred to himself as a leftist president in the past.

He has also vowed to make progress on efforts to end hostilities between the government and communist revolutionaries.

A major breakthrough took place this past August when members of the Duterte administration sat down with representatives from the NDFP and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPA) for the reopening

of official peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway.

So far, 19 jailed NDFP members have been released so that they could serve as consultants during peace talks. On Tuesday, December 20, government peace panel chair, Silvestre Bello III, announced the scheduled release of 20 additional political prisoners.

“There are still hundreds left in prison who are in there for trumped up charges,” said Terrie Cervas, the secretary general of Gabriela USA, an organization that advocates for the empowerment of Filipino women and other progressive goals. “[Inmates] include women, even children and the sick and elderly.”

Cababa and Cervas listed severe overcrowding and a lack of vital medical services as some of the harsh conditions encountered by jailed NDFP members.

They said some activists who were arrested while they were pregnant like Miradel Torres and Andrea Rosal were denied adequate prenatal care before giving birth while they were in custody. Torres was separated from her baby not long after giving birth, while Rosal’s child was not breathing at the time of delivery and died shortly afterward due to respiratory complications, according to Cababa.

Dr. Geneve Rivera-Reyes — a doctor from the non-profit organization Health Action For Human Rights (HAHR) who cared

for Rosal during her incarceration — said the physical strain Rosal faced in prison may have contributed to the newborn’s death, according to a release from the Filipino activist group Karapatan.

Duterte had denied a request from the NDFP for the release of 130 prisoners on Thursday, December 8, saying he had given “too much too soon,” to the communists.

In light of that statement, protesters are urging Duterte to live up to prior commitments, rather than hold the freedom of political prisoners as a bargaining chip in future negotiations.

Peace talks are scheduled to continue in January, however, some NDFP leaders are calling for the release of their remaining colleagues as a prerequisite to further deliberations, according to Cababa.

“The ball is really in the court of President Duterte,” Cababa told the Asian Journal. “He really has to make some positive steps and show that he really cares about peace, that he really cares about everyday Filipinos.”

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have been in conflict with the armed wing of the NDFP, the New People’s Army, for over four decades. Communist rebels have been pushing for increased independence from Western powers and sweeping political and economic reforms in addition to the release of its members. n

Women doctors may be better for patients’…

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now to say what women are doing better than men,” she said.

“We need to gather more data on this, so instead of going off of stereotypes, we have hard evidence.”

That said, generalizing the findings gets tricky. The paper only looks at Medicare patients, who are older, and it only focuses on the inpatient setting.

Jha said he thinks the hospital-based findings would likely hold if expanded to other age groups.

But that’s not necessarily true for other kinds of medicine. The researchers are now examining whether physician gender may relate to surgical outcomes. It’s also unclear whether outpatient

cases — for instance, patients seeing a regular doctor to manage a chronic condition — may yield a different result. In hospitals, patients don’t get to choose their doctors, Jha noted, whereas they might pick a surgeon or a primary care doctor.

Others note that much more research is necessary before physician gender should be factored into the quality equation.

The differences between male and female doctors may not hold under additional examination, suggested Mark Friedberg, a senior natural scientist at the RAND Corp., a non-profit think tank. He was not involved with the study. Other factors, such as a doctor’s age or educational experience, may matter more.

“It would be a mistake to change anything in public policy on the basis of these results, or to advise patients to change their behavior based on this information alone,” he said.

If the findings hold, they point to a way health care can become more efficient and safer for consumers.

“What this should do is to prompt us to look at these specific behaviors these female physicians are practicing,” Parks said. “Those are behaviors we should be inculcating in all physicians.”

This story was produced by Kaiser Health News, which publishes California Healthline, a service of the California Health Care Foundation. n

FINALLY RELEASED. A Land Transportation Office (LTO) employee holds up driver’s license cards ready for release at the LTO main office in Quezon City on Monday, Dec. 19. After years of delays, the LRO finally handed out at least 7,500 plastic license cards on its first day of printing and distribution in Metro Manila.

Michael Varcas/Philstar.com

CPUC approves huge boost in EV charging stations in underserved communities At least 1,125 of 7,500 new charging stations will be in disadvantaged communities

SAN FRANCISCO – The California Public Utilities Commission approved a pilot program that will bring 1,125 electric vehicle charging stations to underserved communities as part of a Pacific Gas and Electric pilot program to deploy a total of 7,500 charging stations in its service area. The company must deploy at least 15 percent of its charging stations in disadvantaged communities with a goal of deploying an additional five percent of charging stations in disadvantaged communities or other areas with a high concentration of low-income customers.

Advocates for low-income communities hailed the decision as a major step toward making clean transportation options available to all Californians, regardless of income, race, or neighborhood.

“This represents a crucial addition to California’s groundbreaking efforts to make electric vehicles affordable and accessible to communities most impacted by poverty and pollution,” said Greenlining Institute Environmental Equity Legal Counsel Joel Espino, who took part in the negotiations that informed today’s decision. “Low and moderate income Californians want and need clean transportation, and we can only reach our clean air and climate goals if EVs become a practical alternative in all neighborhoods. Access to EV charging is essential to that effort, and to dispelling the myth that electric cars are just for the wealthy.”

PG&E’s pilot program will boost EV access efforts under the Charge Ahead California Initiative

(SB 1275, De León). That measure, co-sponsored by The Greenlining Institute, put in motion programs aimed at helping low-income drivers get behind the wheel of an EV. PG & E’s service territory is home to two of those programs: a financing assistance pilot in the Bay Area and a scrap-and-replace programin the Central Valley.

For additional background on the connections between electric vehicles, California climate efforts, and low-income communities and communities of color, see Greenlining’s “Electric Vehicles for All” online toolkit, authored by Espino. For real-world examples of how the Charge Ahead California Initiative and other California climate policies benefit underserved Californians, visit UpliftCA.org. n

Warning from Department of Consumer Protection about gas pump skimmers ahead of holiday travel

THE holiday season is a busy travel time on Connecticut roads, and there is a lot for consumers to think about. The Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) has seen the number of skimming related incidents reported nearly double this year compared to 2015. Consumers should stay extra conscious of their surroundings at the pump during this time of heightened holiday travel.

“Unfortunately, criminals who commit fraud strike at a time when consumers are most vulnerable, or more occupied than usual. During the holiday season we’re thinking about finishing up work, family travel plans, and gatherings with family and friends,” said Consumer Protection Commissioner Jonathan A. Harris, “The last thing many consumers are thinking about is whether or not their gas pump card reader is secure. We hope consumers remember to keep checking the pump and their credit card statement in their routines to protect their finances during the holiday season.”

“We’ve seen a spike in the past year of skimmers appearing in gas pumps, and are working hard to make sure consumers and others that we work with know what to look for,” said Daryl Owens, an Inspector with the agency, “DCP has worked hard to collaborate with law enforcement to make sure we’re all communicating effectively and quickly about skimming attacks, and educating consumers. We want to be as proactive as we can.”

When consumers get their financial information stolen, it

An example of a secured gas pump seal

creates extra work for honest consumers and businesses. That said, it is preventable, and there are steps we hope consumers can take to protect themselves this holiday season: What you can do at the pump: • Make sure the seal on each gas pump isn’t broken or tampered with. If it is, that indicates that someone not authorized to inspect a gas pump has tampered with it.

• If you see a pump that you believe may have been tampered with – don’t use it. You should report that pump’s issue to the gas station attendant.

• Use your credit card or pay by cash. If you pay by cash, you won’t fall victim to a skimming attack. If you use your credit card, you will be able to recover your funds more easily, and keep money in your bank account.

• Pay inside. Paying inside reduces your risk of falling victim to a skimming attack significantly because it’s much harder for fraudsters to place a skimmer

indoors near the cash register. If you must pay outside, pick the pump closest to the building or security camera.

What you can do at home: • Check your credit card statement regularly. If you have a charge that looks unfamiliar, it’s important that you notice as soon as possible. That way, you can have a conversation with your credit card company.

• Plan your trips. If you’re taking a long holiday road trip, plan ahead so you know where you’re getting gas and you can re-trace your steps if need be.

• If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a skimming attack call your credit company first to make sure you get the necessary paperwork to get what you spent returned. Then make sure you alert your local police and DCP. If consumers have questions for DCP, or need to file a complaint related to gasoline, they may contact our Food and Standards Division at dcp.foodandstandards@ ct.gov or (860) 713-6160. n

Electoral College officially declares…

PAGE A3 t

President-elect Mike Pence tweeted in response to the results, congratulating his partner’s win.

“Congratulations to @RealDonaldTrump; officially elected President of the United States today by the Electoral College!,” he tweeted just after the results were in, adding that he is “honored” and “humbled” to become the country’s next vice president.

The Republican National Committee (RNC) also celebrated its candidate’s win and a Republican leadership in the White House.

“This historic election is now officially over and I look forward to President-elect Trump taking the oath of office in January,” RNC Co-Chair Sharon Day said in a statement released on Monday.

“Our unified Republican government will hit the ground running next year so we can deliver real change and make America great again.”

Day added: “For the good of the country, Democrats must stop their cynical attempts to undermine the legitimacy of this

election, which Donald Trump won decisively in the Electoral College with more votes than any Republican since 1988.”

Bipartisan support for Russian hack probe Back in October, the government announced that it was “confident” that Russia was responsible for a hack of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), which resulted in the release of thousands of emails.

Those emails revealed damaging information about the Democratic Party as well as its presidential nominee, Clinton.

In a turn of events, the CIA revealed earlier this month that the Russian hacks were orchestrated to sway the election in Trump’s favor, mainly by producing and distributing “fake news” aimed to defame Clinton.

Although the RNC finds the allegations nonsensical, the proposed investigation on the hack has received resounding support from Democrats and Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

This is the sign of a possible unraveling of the world order that was established after World War II, which has made one of the most peaceful periods in the history of the world,” Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) said on CNN on Sunday, December 18. “We’re starting to see the strains and the unraveling of it, and that is because of the absolute failure of American leadership.”

“This is serious business,” the 2008 Republican presidential nominee added. “If they’re able to harm the electoral process, they may destroy democracy, which is based on free and fair elections.”

At the meeting of the electors on Monday, after the votes were collected, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) urged the investigation into the alleged hack.

“I move that as an Electoral College, we do not normalize this election. We do not accept Russian interference in our election,” Pelosi announced, the electors applauding in agreement. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)

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Duterte to Pacquiao: ‘I think you will become president too’

by Dana

M. SioSon

AJPress

Boxing champion and Senator Manny Pacquiao could become one day a president of the country too, according to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.

Speaking at Pacquiao’s 38th birthday celebration on Saturday, December 17, Duterte called the senator “presidentto-be.” “i asked permission from president-to-be Manny Pacquiao. Ako, nagbitaw na ako ng salita, oo, klaro na ’yan (I already said my piece. It’s clear),” Duterte said in a speech in general Santos City.

“Look. ito ha. Man, magpulitiko ka man, magiging presidente ka rin, tingin ko eh, totoo. (Manny, you are a politician and I think you will also become a president),” he added. on the other hand, Pacquiao previously admitted that he had considered running for president. in an earlier interview with

Sen. Manny Pacquiao and Rodrigo Duterte

Agence France-Presse, the senator said he thought of shooting for the top political position in the country when he retires from his boxing career.

Duterte then gave the senator an advice: “Sundan mo lang ang linya mo at ganun lang ang ugali mo – ’yang style mo, stay humble. Mababa lang (Follow your path and retain your style.

Stay humble).”

This, however, was not the first time Duterte mentioned

the idea of Pacquiao becoming a president.

Last month, during their meeting at Malacañang, Duterte reportedly raised senator’s hand and said, “For president na ’to ha. (This one is for president).”

Pacquiao, while keeping his boxing career, has served as a member of the House of Representatives for two terms before winning a senatorial post in the recent May 2016 national elections.

Budget committee anticipates weaker peso-dollar exchange rate in 2017, 2018

by Dana

M. SioSon

AJPress

THe Philippines’ Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) has adjusted its peso-dollar exchange rate assumptions for 2017 and 2018 from P48 to P50 per US dollar from the original estimates of P45 to P48.

“We are comfortable with P50 as an upper bound for the exchange rate basically because we have a steady inflow of dollars,” Budget Secretary and DBCC Chair Benjamin Diokno said in a briefing on Tuesday, December 20.

“As you may know, we also have hefty reserves,” he added.

At the same time, DBCC maintained the Philippines’ economic growth target of 6.5

percent to 7.5 percent for 2017 and 7 percent to 8 percent for years 2018 to 2022. “no compelling reading to change it. We have same growth drivers and essentially same risks and uncertainties next year,” economic and Planning Secretary ernesto Pernia said in the same briefing. in the past few months, the Philippine peso has declined to about 6 percent from its 47.06 finish in 2015. Some economic analysts said that the decline has been attributed to President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial remarks against America.

DBCC, however, projected that a weaker peso will not cause an increase in consumer prices that will go beyond the

original inflation target for both 2017 and 2018, which was between 2 and 4 percent.

The committee said this will expectedly allow interest rates to be steady at 2.5 to 4 percent during the same period.

“That was also the expectation of the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas). Their view was that there will be no change in policy,” Diokno said. on the other hand, DBCC said the export growth target declined to 2 percent and 5 percent while the import expansion remains steady at 10 percent for both years.

Regarding the Dubai crude oil, projections were also unchanged at $40 to $55 per barrel in 2017 and $45 to $60 in 2018.

APPOINTED. Cesar Montano on Tuesday, Dec. 20 has been officially sworn in as the new Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer. Montano took his oath of office before Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo. Teo received Montano’s appointment paper on December 7. The actor was appointed to the post by President Rodrigo Duterte. Montano will handle domestic and international marketing and promotion of the Philippines as a major global tourism destination.

Inquirer.net photo

PH could lose more foreign aid, analyst warns

by JefferSon

antiporDa Manilatimes.net

THe Philippines is in danger of losing assistance from foreign countries and even a downgraded credit rating if President Rodrigo Duterte insists on imposing conditions on a United nations special rapporteur seeking a probe on extrajudicial killings linked to the drug war, an analyst warned.

Ramon Casiple of the institute for Political and electoral Reform said the refusal of the President to reconsider his decision to impose conditions on Un Special Rapporteur Agnes Callamard was not helping the administration project a good image.

Duterte wants to challenge Callamard in a public debate on whatever her findings would be, while Callamard wants a private debriefing if she is allowed to visit the country in early 2017.

Casiple said the Philippines was not in a position to set conditions because the office of the Un rapporteur is based on a Un treaty. “if the administration thinks that the Un will back out because of the conditions, they are mistaken because the rapporteur

can still come up with a report even without coming here,” Casiple said in an interview.

The Philippines will be at a disadvantageous position as the government will not be able to air its side, he said.

The Philippine government has set three conditions before allowing Callamard to investigate: a public presentation in the Philippines of the findings of the special rapporteur, an opportunity for the President to publicly ask questions and present additional information or clarifications in the presence of the special rapporteur and the media, and that Callamard take an oath.

Callamard has rejected the conditions, noting that these were against the code of conduct and terms of reference for country visits. “it would appear that the Philippines is not open to talk about the issue on the alleged extrajudicial killings and it will not look good for the country,” Casiple said.

How Marcos, Arroyo treated Un probes Casiple recalled that former president Ferdinand Marcos

blocked a Un fact-finding investigation in the Philippines after the assassination of former senator Benigno Aquino Jr. in 1983.

As a result, some foreign aid was cut and the credit rating of the Philippines was downgraded, he said. These can happen again if Duterte insists on his conditions, Casiple said.

The deferment by the Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) of a new multi-year development aid package for the Philippines, Casiple said, could be followed by other countries.

Casiple also noted that former president gloria Macapagal-Arroyo allowed a Un special rapporteur to conduct an investigation on summary killings in the country and while the report was negative, the Philippines was given a chance to answer and clarify some matters. no sanctions were given.

“The danger here is that if other nations with strong positions on human rights would see the behavior of the Philippine government toward the Un special rapporteur, it would be a serious problem for the country,” Casiple said.

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Features

Desensitization

DESPITE efforts by President Rodrigo Duterte to vociferously fight the drug crisis in the country, many still refuse to see its success.

Whether they are guilty or not, the staggering numbers of people who have been killed cannot hide the growing level of violence and impunity in the country.

The gruesome photographs of blood-soaked corpses of alleged drugs suspects are constantly shown with headlines in various media outlets almost every day. This shows how there is a level of desensitization to the violence among a certain segment of the population.

But waging a punitive war on drugs also has consequences. it generates human rights abuses such as abusive and inhumane punishments. And as the number grows, so does the fear of the populace for their own lives.

While Duterte and his hard stance on drugs received high approval ratings, a majority of Filipinos are worried that they or anyone they know would fall victim to such killings.

The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that 8 out of 10 adult Filipinos or 78 percent of 1,500 respondents fear getting killed in the drug war.

The poll, conducted from Dec. 3 -6, also showed that 39 percent of the respondents consider the issue of extrajudicial killings as “very serious.”

For 71 percent of the respondents, it is “very important” that drug suspects are caught alive.

Philippine national Police (PnP) chief Director general Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has asked the public for indulgence after admitting that the

killings might continue. He vowed that the police will be relentless in its war on drugs.

“Andyan na tayo. Kung merong mamamatay dyan, pasensya na po dahil hindi kami humihinto sa aming trabaho. Hangga’t nandyan ‘yung problema, we will continue confronting that problem. Hindi po mahihinto ito. We cannot guarantee you na walang mamamatay dahil in every action, there is a corresponding reaction. (We’re already here. if there are people killed, forgive us because we won’t stop doing our job. While the problem persists, we will continue confronting that problem.

This will not stop. We cannot guarantee you that there will be no more deaths because in every actions, there is a corresponding reaction,)” the police chief said.

Dela Rosa earlier has asked for forgiveness from the public on behalf of the police and the government for the killings. Dela Rosa asked the public to pray for the 160,000-member police force so god would forgive them for killing people.

This brutal anti-drug crackdown is painstaking and often thankless. Perhaps what it needs is to re-assess the problem and propose policy recommendations for a radically different approach— one that will not inflict fear among the citizenry but ignite civic participation instead. (AJPress)

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

The beginnings of our Christmas tradition CHRiSTMAS is my favorite season of the year because it just makes us look at what matters most in our life, be thankful for them, and yearn to spread the joy and love with others. A fitting prelude to new Year, Christmas also serves as a good time to look back to the year that was, as we look forward to the year ahead.

For us Christians, the reason for the season is the birth of Jesus, who taught us how to live the

life of faith, love, charity and service that he exemplified in His own life. The “belen” and “simbang gabi” are the best illustrations of the real meaning of Christmas for many kababayans.

Christmas is also a feast that we share among family, friends,

The Fil-Am Perspective Gel sanTos-relos

and the community, enjoying traditional food like jamon, queso de bola, kakanin, and the usual fiesta fare featuring Filipino food like embutido, menudo, morcon, lechon, buko salad, potato salad, leche flan, ube halaya, and many more.

As early as September, Filipinos start working on building that

Christmas spirit by playing Christmas songs, decorating the house with a parol and Christmas tree. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos

Joe de V, my hero MAnY of us ordinary folks have From The our heroes. Mine is Jose de Venecia Jr. i Stands write this tribute six days before he turns 80 on Saturday, the Domini m. Torrevillas 26th day of December 2016. i imagine that on Monday, the VeraPerez gardens in San Juan City will be filled to the rafters to celebrate JDV’s natal day. For sure his guests will include foreign dignitaries from many parts of the world, who, ironically, hold him up as a prophet while to my mind, he seems half-forgotten in his own country.

JDV is best remembered as the only Speaker of the House of Representatives for five terms, or 12 years – in the 9th (1992-1955), 10th (19951998), 12th (2001-2004), 13th (20042008), and 14th (2008) Philippine Congress. He was president of the dominant party, LAKAS-CMD, and ran for president in the 1998 election but lost to then Vice President Joseph estrada (who would early in his term be ousted from the presidency), finishing second in a field of 11 candidates. He was one of the 1974 ToYM awardees. no longer involved in domestic politics, De Venecia has reached out to promote peace among leaders of other countries. He has assumed the role of statesman, respected and held in awe by heads of state. He is founding chairman and founding president of the international Conference of Asian Political Parties (iCAPP) and the Centrist Asia Pacific Democrats international (CAPDi). iCAPP is composed of more than 300 ruling and opposition political parties in 52 Asian countries, while CAPDi is a joint political-civil society organization in the Asia Pacific.

According to De Venecia, iCAPP is a forum of political parties of Asia-oceanian countries, which was launched in Manila Philippines in September 2000.

The objectives of the conference are to promote exchanges and cooperation between political parties from different countries in the area and with various ideologies; to enhance mutual understanding and trust among Asian countries; to promote Asia’s regional

cooperation through the unique role and channel of political parties; and to create an environment for sustained peace and shared programs of development.” on Feb. 15, 2016, some 150 parliamentarians, representing more than 40 nations, signed a resolution to form the international Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (iAPP). This event took place in the national Assembly of the Republic of Korea at an international Leadership Conference.

Since the inauguration of iAPP in Seoul in February, regional chapters of iAPP have been launched in the AsianPacific, east African, West African, european, Central American and South American regions. A north American iAPP chapter was launched at an international leadership conference in Washington, D.C. last month.

De Venecia, with his amiable personality and remarkable intelligence, was elected president and chairman of iAPP. Among the distinguished participants in the conference were iAPP cochair Dan Burton, former nepal Premier Madhaw nepal, first black woman elected to the Parliament of Canada, Rep. Jean Augustine, UPF President Thomas Walsh and Washington Times chair and publisher Thomas McDevitt. in the US Senate and House of Representatives, JDV asked governments and parliaments “to combine forces to tackle the almost incredible but all too real problem of the richest one percent (1 percent) or 80 of the world’s richest individuals owning sixty percent (60 percent of the wealth of the world, or the same amount shared by 3.5 billion who occupy the bottom half of the world’s income scale.” in the Philippines, the income and social gap is so great that like Disraeli’s Britain in the 1840s, the rich and the poor among us have become virtually ‘two nations’.” in 2011, the richest Philippine families accounted for 76 percent of our country’s gross national income. The two riches families alone together held 6 percent of our entire economy.”

He said, “The two nations situation,

the incredibly huge gap between the rich and the poor, still exists in many countries in Asia, Latin America, Africa and a number of cities in europe and north America.”

He pointed out that in iAPP “We observe that inequality is an unavoidable result of market operations. inequality is the price of capitalist dynamism. Left to itself, rapid economic growth accelerates income inequality.”

But inequality, though unavoidable, De Venecia pointed out, “can be mitigated, made less painful – by government activities and parliamentary action. And it is right that the states and parliaments should do so – because economic insecurity, if left to itself, will steadily erode the social order and eventually generate a backlash against the economic system as a whole.”

He submitted that “the merging and exiting governments today, in search of new platforms, systems, and structures of government might consider a Jose de Venecia synthesis of the best of socialism and capitalism.”

He pointed out that since Presidentelect Donald Trump’s electoral victory, “we have already noticed the beginnings of significant improvement in the deteriorating US-Russian relations and better chemistry between Philippine President Duterte and Mr. Trump (who) begins to assume office only on January 21, next year.”

De Venecia pointed out that the US “has been the fulcrum of the regional power balance since the end of World War i and Pax Americana has given the Philippines and the east Asian states the breathing spell to put their houses in order, as it is the American market that has enabled them to expand their economies at the world’s fastest rate during this last half-century.”

Let’s go to JDV’s roots. He was born in Dagupan City on Dec. 26, 1936, to Judge Jose R. de Venecia Sr., and Casimira Villamil Claveria. He graduated with a bachelor of science in journalism at the Ateneo de Manila in 1955.

Before he entered politics, JDV was in business, pioneering overseas contract work for Filipinos as one of the first Philippine prime contractors in the Middle east and north Africa in the mid-1970s. Records show that he hired 51,000 Filipinos for his companies and engaged in port operations in Saudi Arabia, agriculture in Africa, and mass housing and oil exploration in the United Arab emirates. His Middle east engagements led to the employment of millions of Filipinos. He conceived and implemented the historic dollar-remittance program for overseas Filipino

workers.

His entry into politics began with his election as congressman of the 2nd District of Pangasinan (1969 to 1972). in the first free election after the antiMarcos eDSA Revolution, he was elected congressman in 1987.

He was reelected in 1992 and joined the newly created party Lakas Tao of President Fidel Ramos. He initiated the move to unite the national Union of Christian Democrats – a cluster of the Progressive Party of the Philippines and the Union of Muslim Democrats – with Lakas Tao to make it a dominant party. in the same year, he was elected Speaker of the House of Representatives. He created the “Rainbow Coalition,” converging political parties that include the LDP, nPC, Lakas nUCD, and other minor parties to make a solid majority in the House. He was reelected congressman and speaker in 1995. Again, he ran and won as congressman of the 4th District of Pangasinan, and was in his fifth term when he lost the speakership.

As President Ramos’ peace envoy, he reached out to secessionist Moro national Liberation Front (MnLF), the RAM-SFP-YoU military rebels, and the Communist Party of the Philippines.

He met Libyan President Moammar Qadafi and MnLF Chair nur Misuari that resulted in forging a peace agreement in Tripoli in 1976. His persuasion of Misuari to accept autonomy led to the signing of the peace pact on September 2, 1996. He met military rebels, and Jose Maria Sison and Luis Jalandoni in the netherlands, and Hashim Salamat, MiLF chair, in Mindanao.

As the year draws to a close, we say hello, happy birthday to my good friend JDV. in today’s parlance, my BFF. *** Email: dominitorrevillas@gmail.com

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

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Your Immigration Solution Devin Connolly & nanCy Miller BEING granted United States citizenship is a dream-come-true for countless people from around the world. Though the dream is the same, the paths to actually obtaining U.S. citizenship can vary greatly because there are many different ways that a person may become a U.S. citizen.

The most common way a person is granted U.S. citizenship is by birth in the U.S. or one of its territories. This automatic granting of citizenship is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and applies to almost everyone, regardless of the immigration status of the child’s parents.

The next most-common way a person may obtain U.S. citizenship is through the process known as naturalization. This is how those who immigrated to the United States become citizens. It begins with the filing of an application and ends at a swearing-in ceremony. It is the steps in between that can trip many up. Some may not be eligible and not know it. Some may have unresolved issues of removability that will become apparent when they file their application. Some may be eligible but not provide the necessary documentation. The wise applicant makes it his or her business to be educated and informed before filing for the benefit.

Most applicants for naturalization must be a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. for five years before they may apply for U.S. citizenship. However, this fiveyear requirement is lowered to three years if the applicant has been residing in “marital union” with their U.S. citizen spouse for the prior three years. This is true even if the applicant did not obtain their green card through the marriage. “Marital union” means that the parties actually resided together, so even an

The many ways of becoming a US citizen informal separation would disqualify an applicant from applying after only three years. In an attempt to ameliorate the delays in processing, the regulations allow the applicant to file 90 days before the three or five year period is reached.

The applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the three or five year period. And an absence of one full-year breaks the residency and the clock must start again.

Each applicant for naturalization must show good moral character for the requisite period of time. Several past events in one’s life may not only preclude a person from showing good moral character and, thereby, prevent a grant of citizenship but may also cause the applicant to be placed into removal proceedings. These actions include misrepresentations made to obtain an immigration benefit or convictions for certain crimes. And CIS is entitled to look outside the prescribed period to determine the applicant’s good moral character.

Some of these requirements for naturalization are eliminated for one who is applying based on military service, especially military service during a time of conflict.

A child of a U.S. citizen who is born outside the U.S. may acquire U.S. citizenship without going through naturalization if they meet certain conditions.

Specifically, the child must be under the age of 18, must already be a permanent resident of the U.S., at least one of their parents must be a U.S. citizen either by birth or naturalization, and the child must be residing in the U.S. in the legal and physical custody of their U.S. citizen parent. Upon the satisfaction of the last of these four requirements, the child automatically becomes U.S. citizens and may apply for

a certificate of citizenship or a U.S. passport. This provision applies to adopted children, but not to step-children of U.S. citizens. Also, this law only applies to children who were under the age of 18 on February 27, 2001. There are more complex requirements for a person that turned 18-years-old before February 27, 2001.

Finally, a person may also acquire U.S. citizenship by being born abroad to a U.S. citizen parent. Whether the child acquired U.S. citizenship at birth will be determined based on the law that it was in effect at the time of the child’s birth. This aspect of U.S. citizenship laws has changed many times over the years, so each applicant’s case is different.

However, a common theme has been requiring the U.S. citizen parent to have acquired a certain amount of physical presence in the U.S. prior to the child’s birth.

The laws regarding citizenship in the United States are extremely complex. One may be a citizen and not know it. Alternatively, one may think they are going through a simple process and wind up fighting to keep their green card. Be informed.

Consult a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney when you start to think about citizenship. ***

by Catherine

talavera ManilaTimes.net

THE stronger dollar versus the peso and the growth of property values over time are attracting balikbayans, or overseas Filipinos returning to the country, to invest in real estate in the Philippines, according to a top property listing site.

In a statement on its website, Lamudi Philippines noted that real estate is a good investment option for balikbayans as it helps them maintain their financial health.

is also very important for every overseas Filipino to save and take care of their financial health— and in the process, secure their future,” Lamudi said.

“Being unable to do so will just negate the short-term benefits of earning enough at present and will render all their sacrifices pointless—for it is the future financial well-being that every one of us must prepare for,” it added.

Among the top advantages of investing in real estate is the value appreciation it offers over

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PH to open OFW bank in Sept 2017 – DOF

Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila.

For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com.

Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case.

(Advertising Supplement)

“While there are a variety of ways overseas Filipinos can invest their hard-earned cash in, many believe that the wisest financial decision would be to put their money aside for a property purchase, either as a first home or an investment property,” Lamudi said.

Investing in real estate is also in line with the goals of balikbayans to provide a good life for themselves and their families, the property listing site said.

“But more than just having a decent salary and providing a good life for their families, it

by Mayvelin

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

Carlos Dominguez

THE Land Bank of the Philippines will open in September next year a P3 billion bank which will be partly owned by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Finance (DOF) said on Tuesday, Dec. 20.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez 3rd said the OFW bank will be established through LandBank’s acquisition of the Philippine Postal Savings Bank, which will be converted into a LandBank subsidiary that will be owned 30 percent by OFWs. “The acquisition of the Postal

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DECEMBER 23-29, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

The CTV Files aurora vega-Buzon, eSq. CARLOS is a married child petitioned by his US citizen father. His priority date is October 30, 1992 and it’s just a matter of months before his visa becomes available. Unfortunately, his father who is 87 years old, suffered a heart attack after Christmas and is now in a care facility. He applied for a tourist visa so he can visit his father but his application was denied. His family wonders if there is a way for Carlos to see his ailing father.

Foreign nationals or aliens who have urgent medical and family needs like Carlos —but cannot obtain visas from embassies abroad — can try to apply for a Humanitarian Parole.

Humanitarian Parole is highly discretionary and is not an immigration benefit. It is considered as an “extraordinary measure, sparingly used only in urgent or emergency circumstances, by which the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security may permit an inadmissible

Community Journal

Humanitarian Parole for urgent medical and family cases alien temporarily to enter or remain in the United States.”

It is “not intended to bypass immigration procedures or avoid visa processing procedures and timelines” and is granted only upon clear evidence that the “parole applicant has exhausted visa processes, including any waivers to grounds of inadmissibility.”

Section 212(d)(s)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) authorizes the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to “in his discretion, parole into the United States temporarily under such conditions as he may prescribe only on a case-bycase basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit any alien applying for admission into the United States,.. .” In practice, the Secretary’s parole authority is delegated to the 3 bureaus of the Homeland Security — the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — who all exercise parole authority concurrently.

Humanitarian Parole is cat-

egorized based on which agency will receive and adjudicate the application. The following cases must be submitted to the USCIS: 1. Urgent medical, family, and related needs; and 2. Aliens who will participate in civil proceedings where all parties are private litigants.

On the other hand, ICE will be the adjudicating authority for the following cases: 1. Aliens who will participate in administrative, judicial, or legislative proceedings, and/or investigations, whether at the federal, state, local, or tribal level of government; 2. Aliens in removal proceedings or who have final orders, as well as aliens granted deferred action by ICE at any point after the commencement of removal proceedings, regardless of whether the alien is within or outside of the US; 3. Aliens who will participate in events hosted by an international organization located within the US (e.g., UN, OAS); 4. Section 7 parole (50 USC 403[h]); and 5. Intelligence.

Aliens who are registered sources of a member of the US Intelligence Community and whose

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http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

A Christmas story: The innkeeper’s untold tale

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette aDeva Maglaya JOSHUA was excited with his new job at the inn. It sure beats having to herd sheep this time of the year when the cold nights chilled his bones on the hillside pasture where he tended his family’s small herd of sheep and cattle. The job fell to his younger brother this time.

Jacob, the owner of the inn was his father’s friend who had asked if Joshua could help him mind the inn for a little while as he and his wife will be going on a long journey. Jacob liked and trusted Joshua like the son he never had. The young man was a good worker and a natural who quickly picked up the ropes of the business.

Not long after, Jacob and his wife left for their journey to the town north of the country where they were born many miles away to comply with the Roman emperor Augustus’ decree that everyone be counted for the census. Few, if any, in Israel dared disobey the mighty Roman Empire.

The inn was busy. People for miles around were on the

‘As he told the story of that wondrous night to Luke, Joshua carefully removed himself from the narrative.

It was to be between him and God alone.” move going back to their own hometowns. The brisk business brought by overnight travellers in their otherwise sleepy town tired him out. Yet, he felt pretty proud of himself of the work he was doing.

Today, just before sundown, he had filled the 12 modestly furnished rooms with tired and hungry travellers. He thought of meeting up with his shepherd friends in the pasture once he had turned over the inn’s affairs to the night attendant. He had heard his shepherd friends on night watch talk about an unusually bright star that has been moving in the heavens for many nights now. They said it was a spectacle to behold and he wanted to see it for himself.

The rumor buzzing around town was that the soothsayers in King Herod’s palace studying the unusual heavenly display were

cowering in fear, loathe to tell the king the meaning of the unusual star. Eventually, they had to tell the king for nothing escapes him.

Herod did not suffer fools gladly.

The prophecy will come to pass. The king to rule all kings was to be born very soon within the kingdom. It was no wonder King Herod was in a vicious mood. Joshua thought the ruthless king would remove all threats to his kingship by all means fair or foul. It was bad enough he had to bow to the superior might of the Roman conquerors who had allowed him to be king within his territory.

Just as Joshua was about to lock up for the night, a couple came in. The man, visibly tired and leaning on his staff with one hand, was supporting the woman who was heavy with child with his other hand. The woman looked

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All about Christmas

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS AS the happiest season of the year, religious and secular, comes around, we present some interesting facts about Christmas.

The Philippines, most likely the country with the greatest Christmas spirit, celebrates Christmas the longest and most festive, starting from September where the streets, stores, and some homes, are already decorated in preparation for Christmas. Of the 102,250,133 population of the Philippines, there are about 90 percent Christians, 80 percent of them Catholics. The tradition is from the influence of the Spanish colonial years, from the 16th to the 19th century.

About 30-35 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in the United States. There are 21,000 Christmas tree growers in the United States, and trees usually grow for about 15 years before they are sold. Obviously, hundreds of millions are sold around the world. Not to mention the artificial trees.

Did you know that between 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was illegal in Boston, USA and law-breakers were fined 5 shillings (about 27? US dollars), a lot of money then.

Christmas is celebrated today in the Greek and Russian orthodox churches 13 days after the 25th, popularly known as the

Epiphany or Three Kings Day, the day the three wise men found Jesus in the manger.

Christmas celebrations were rowdy and raucous in the Middle Ages, much like today’s Mardi Gras parties, except that they were destructive, “free from arrests during the season.” Definitely pagan rituals.

Christmas legally became a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870. There were 69,470,686 registered Catholics in the United States (22 percent of the U.S. population) as of 2015. The 2016 U.S. population is 324,118,787.

Kris Kringle in the early United States was changed by Dutch settlers in America to “Sinterklass,” (we now know as Santa Claus), actually from St. Nicholas, who was generous with gifts to a lot of people before he died. St Nick was born in Patara (Asia Minor) and went to Myra (now Demre in Turkey), where he became a bishop. He died on the 6th of December between A.D. 326 and 341.

In 1828, Joel R. Poinsett, an American minister to Mexico brought home the red and green plant from Mexico. That festive plant we know today as Poinsettia.

As a gimmick to attract customers to Montgomery Ward department stores, writer Robert L. May invented “Rudolph, the most famous reindeer of all,” in 1939, with a poem about reindeers.

The famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting tradition was started in 1931.

The Christmas tree tradition actually started by Germany in the 16th century when Christians decorated pine trees in their homes as a part of the Christmas season. The Vikings in Scandinavia considered evergreens as special plant of the sun god, Balder.

Ever heard of Christmas Disease?

Christmas Diseases has nothing to do with the Christmas season. Christmas Disease is a blood disease, also known as Hemophilia B or factor IX hemophilia.

It is a hereditary bleeding disorder due to deficiency in coagulation factor IX. This condition is X-linked recessive inheritance, affecting only males, and occurs in 1 in 100,000 male births.

This illness causes spontaneous bleeding in the joints.

What is Christmas Blues?

Christmas Blues is a form of mild depression (called Seasonal Affective Disorders, or SAD for short) that happens to some of us, normal and healthy people, during the Christmas season or other festive family occasions.

Empty nest syndrome, where the grown up or married children have left home, creating an empty and lonely feeling in the parents, especially the mothers, is one such type of emotion that is magnified by family occasions like Christmas, New Year, birthdays, etc. Frequent visits from the children or family reunions during the holidays minimize these “blues” and provide a sense of parental security and

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Business News

Remittances to hit record $27.7-B next year Up 4% from projected 2016 level

by lawrenCe

agCaoili Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) sees a sustained four percent growth in cash remittances next year amid strong demand for skilled Filipino workers abroad.

Zeno Ronald Abenoja, director at the BSP’s Department of Economic Research, said cash remittances would hit $27.7 billion in 2017 or $1.1 billion higher than the projected record level of $26.6 billion this year.

“For 2017, it is expected to sustain its growth at four percent. This takes into account the continued demand for Filipino workers overseas,” he said.

Abenoja said the central bank retained the four percent growth target for cash remittances to $26.6 billion this year from $25.6 billion last year.

Latest data from the BSP showed remittances coursed through banks went up by four percent to $22.12 billion in the first 10 months of the year from $21.27 billion in the same period a year ago.

The US, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, UK, Japan, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Kuwait accounted for more than 80 percent of the total cash remittances from January to October.

For October alone, the amount of money sent home by overseas Filipinos contracted by three percent to $2.1 million as currencies in countries hosting Filipino workers continued to weaken against the US dollar.

Remittances from sea-based

Filipino workers fell 11.1 percent due to stiffer competition in the supply of seafarers particularly from East Asia and Eastern Europe while that of land-based workers also slipped 0.6 percent.

Top countries that contri-buted to the decline in total cash remittances in October were Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Italy, Malaysia, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

Remittances from the UK declined 5.9 percent even as the volume of remittances in original currency increased by 16.5 percent. On the other hand, remittances from Italy, Germany, Greece, and the Netherlands declined both in US dollar equivalent and original currency.

BSP deputy governor Diwa Guinigundo said the recovery of oil prices in the world market amid the plan of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to lower global

production would result to higher deployment of overseas Filipinos in oil-rich countries.

“Our rate of deployment continues to grow, although a little bit more modest. It continued to grow because of the profile of the skills that we send abroad,” he said.

The commitment to reduce global oil production resulted to a dramatic jump in oil prices to above $50 per barrel level.

He said the economic recovery as a result of higher prices would allow oil-rich countries to hire more Filipino workers.

“That is a lot of material value to the stability of our remittances,” he added.

There are about 10 million Filipinos working overseas who send money to their loved ones in the Philippines accounting for about 10 percent of the country’s domestic output as measured by the gross domestic product (GDP). n

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Community Journal

CJ

Legal status: a wonderful Christmas gift for your family

Immigration Corner atty. MiChael gurFinkel, eSq AN important part of Christmas is buying gifts for loved ones. Filipinos are busy filling their balikbayan boxes with pasalubong, to send to their families “back home.” The pasalubong may consist of clothes, food items, electronics, or other useful items, given as a way of “sharing one’s blessings.”

However, many Filipinos forget about what could be the most important “gift” for their family members: legalizing their status, or finding a way for their family members to immigrate to the U.S. and be reunited, under the same roof, not only during Christmas, but all year round. I know that some people have been separat-

ed from their family members for many years, because they have not done anything about their immigration situation. Yet if you ask the family members back home, they probably believe that nothing that could be bought in any store would mean as much as the family being together.

If you have not yet done anything about your immigration situation, and are spending yet another lonely Christmas in the U.S., maybe now is the right time to switch your spending priorities – from the usual balikbayan box items to the real gift a family wants – being together in the U.S. Or at least make a New Year’s resolution to finally take steps to either legalize your status and/or bring your family to America.

On behalf of myself and my law office, Maligayang Pasko sa

inyong lahat!

***

Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

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

The story of an early Christmas ‘Miracle’ this Christmas Day – on ‘Citizen Pinoy’ ROWENA and Mike came to the US in 2010, after she was sponsored by her employer with an H-1B working visa. While Rowena struggled with the pain of leaving their two children behind, she knew her difficulties would eventually be rewarded with a better future for her family.

The two children later joined them with H-4 visas, and Rowena did everything in her power to fully comply with US immigration laws. While her labor certification (green card) case was being processed, she dutifully renewed her H-1B visa. However, on the third renewal, something went amiss: the renewal was denied. Her at-

torney decided not to appeal, as her labor certification case was close to completion. But another disaster happened: her adjustment (green card) application was also denied because USCIS said because of the H-1B denial, she worked 14 days without proper DHS work authorization!

Despite going to three different lawyers, spending lots of money on attorneys’ fees to salvage her case, and all the heartache and stress, no one could help her.

Rowena was desperate. Her family was urging her to give up and return to the Philippines. But she wanted her children to have a better life with all the opportu-

nities the US offered.

She finally consulted with leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel. Despite the complexity of the case, and the denials, the family was very optimistic their 4th attorney was truly “the attorney of last hope.”

And true enough, Atty. Gurfinkel delivered within a record 43 days, getting green cards for the entire family, and securing a better future for Rowena’s children.

Watch this early Christmas miracle on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” –– on Sunday 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers).

(Advertising Supplement)

Business News

Foreign investment pledges plunge 45% Down to P26.7 B in Q3

by Czeriza

valenCia Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — Foreign investment pledges approved by the country’s seven investment promotion agencies (IPAs) fell 45 percent in the third quarter this year, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported Tuesday, Dec. 20.

The IPAs include the Board of Investments (BOI), Clark Development Corp. (CDC), Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), BOI-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BOI-ARMM), and Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA).

Investments committed from July to September totaled P26.7 billion, lower than the P48.6 billion pledged in the same period last year.

In the first nine months of the year, approved foreign investments dropped 12.4 percent to P93.3 billion from P106.6 billion

in the same period in 2015.

Most of the foreign investments approved in the third quarter originated from South Korea, the US and Singapore.

South Korea committed P6.5 billion, corresponding to 24.3 percent of total, while the US and Singapore pledged P4.6 billion and P4.1 billion, respectively, corresponding to 17.2 percent and 15.3 percent of approved investments.

By industry sector, 49.4 per-

cent of the investment commitments were made in the electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply worth P13.2 billion. Manufacturing cornered total investments valued at P5.1 billion (18.9 percent of total) while transportation and storage had total investments of P3.5 billion (13.2 percent of total).

By location, the bulk of foreign investment pledges approved

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A Christmas story: The innkeeper’s…

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 23-29, 2016

to be in some pain. Still, Joshua noted the stately calm, grace and beauty about her. There was this mysterious glow. The man asked Joshua for a room and told him his wife was about to give birth.

Alas, the last room has been let and Joshua told him so.

Joshua glanced at the woman and his heart was filled with pity.

He thought quickly of his own home for them to stay for the night but it was some distance away. He had to think and act quickly. It looks like the woman was about to give birth at any moment. Joshua had seen to his own mother at childbirth. He had helped his own father deliver some of his brothers himself.

“Maybe, I have something for you. It’s not much but it would get you through this cold night at least,” he told the couple. “Come with me.”

Joshua gathered some blankets and sheets quickly. He gave instructions to his attendant to heat water. He then gathered food and other provisions. He moved in haste leading the couple to an empty stable a few yards at the back of the inn.

Earlier in the day before the sun was up, he took to clearing the stable himself. He didn’t know why he did it. But now he was glad he did so. He thought the squalid stable with its walls and roof can shield this poor couple from the cold night as the woman delivers her child.

Joshua gave the man the blankets and clean sheets, the warm water and some extra oil for the lamp to burn through the night.

He set a makeshift table for the bread, fish and wine and lit the lamp in one corner.

He moved quickly as he helped the man make his wife comfortable. He could see the woman’s

face etched in pain for the birth pangs seem to be stronger now.

Beads of sweat lined the woman’s brow. He knew he wasn’t going to be able to meet up with his friends tonight. Somehow he knew his place was right here where he was needed for the long night ahead.

Just before he went back to the inn to fetch a few more things, he said to them, “I’m Joshua. Let me know if you need anything else.”

The man replied, “I’m Joseph and this is Mary. Thank you. You have done more than you can possibly know. The Lord’s light burns bright in you.” Mary looked up at Joshua and smiled through her pain. For as long as he lived, Joshua will never forget that smile.

Mary’s child was born that night. Joshua could not remember a night more filled with wonder, mystery and myriad points of light.

It was a night like no other.

Joshua’s entire being was engulfed with the mystery happening before his very eyes. He remembered Mary wrapping her child gently in swaddling clothes and placing the child in a manger. The child was bathed in light. The whole stable was filled with warmth. Soft, sweet music seem to emanate from a choir of angels above the stable and a sweet heavenly fragrance wafted through the air.

Joshua’s shepherd friends came to visit the child. How could they have known? His friends told him that an angel told them about the good news. They were led to the stable where they found the child.

Filled with awe, they knelt before the child who was to be king.

Later on that night, three men garbed in royal splendor and bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh travelling from

afar, came to pay the child homage. They had been following the bright star hovering about the heavens for many nights leading them to that dusty town called Bethlehem.

Many years later in his old age, the memory of that night still stayed with Joshua. He had remained the innkeeper. He had struck a friendship with a man called Luke, a physician who was a regular guest at the inn. He observed that the thoughtful, quiet Luke was always writing in rolls of papyrus in his room.

Not wanting to keep the wonders of that night to be forgotten when he passed, Joshua told the story to Luke. As he told the story of that wondrous night, Joshua carefully removed himself from the narrative. It was to be between him and God alone.

Joshua’s life was never the same again. The light of that bright night burned in his soul forever. He could not have known at the time he was witness to the unfolding of the greatest mystery on earth. *** HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MY READERS!!!

Here’s my Christmas prayer to one and all.

May everyday of your life be Christmas Day. May Christmas fill your hearts and homes with the myriad points of light, love and joy! May we always remember God showed His love for us when Jesus Christ was born and lived among us more than two thousand years ago so those of us who believe may have eternal life. ***

Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

SHE TRIED TO COMPLY, BUT HER CASE WAS DENIED… A MOTHER’S DESPAIR AND AN ATTORNEY’S RESCUE ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Rowena and Mike came to the US in 2010 to build a better life. Rowena was sponsored as a teacher. As she was filing her third extension for her H1-B visa in 2016, the shocking news hit her. She was denied! Then her adjustment (green card) application was denied because, according to the USCIS, she worked a mere 14 days without the necessary DHS authorization. Three lawyers tried handling her case, to no avail, and her family was urging her to “give up” and return to the Philippines. She finally decided to consult with “the attorney of last hope,” Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel, in a last-ditch effort to be able to provide a better life for her children. Watch how Atty. Gurfinkel was able to solve the problem in a record 43 days, turning a disastrous denial into green cards for the entire family, on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Christmas Day at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC.

All about…

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happiness, especially among the elderly parents. The other common cause of this extreme sadness is poor financial situation in life, where self-pity, panic, a sense of hopelessness and helplessness prevail especially on a holiday like Christmas.

How long could food be left safely at room temperature?

Different types of food have different “spoilage time.” Fresh fish, processed meat, creamfilled pastries, custards, fruits salads, noodles (pancit), food cooked with tomatoes provide good media for bacterial growth after more than 6 hours of exposure to room temperature, depending on how warm the ambient temperature is. Common food contaminants are Staphylococcus Aureus, E. Coli, and Amoeba, and water contaminants are (non-typhoidal) Salmonella and Shigella. Staphylococcal Food Poisoning is due to the enterotoxins produced by the Staph bacteria. Some dishes, like adobo or paksiw could last for even a week in room temperature without spoiling, unless contaminated by handlers. The prudent thing to do is to refrigerate the left overs as soon as the meal is completed.

Those who do not have a re-

frigerator should not cover the food airtight, since this will not allow the food “to breathe” and would tend to increase the heat and pressure, leading to a much shorter “spoilage time.” If using a plastic wrap, poke a few holes on it to allow for a better ventilation. Keep the food in the refrigerator, an ice box, or in the coldest part of the house, and eat it within 24 hours.

What is Chinese Food Syndrome?

This condition could sometimes mimic a heart attack. It causes chest pains, facial pressure, and burning sensations throughout the body, sometimes with dizziness or fainting. This phenomenon is a pharmacologic reaction to monosodium glutamate (MSG or betsin), a popular white powder food seasoning used in cooking. The symptoms are not really due to an allergic reaction and is dose-related.

Most people are not bothered by MSG, but some react to it more severely. Although death is very rare with this syndrome, a surgeon classmate of mine, who was attending a meeting in Nice, France, several years ago, had so violent a reaction after ingesting Chinese food with monosodium glutamate that he expired within an hour thereafter. Those who

develop any of the four symptoms enumerated above after eating food cooked with MSG should clearly request chefs or cooks in restaurants, at home, or anywhere else, not to use MSG in preparing their food. Because of this syndrome, most Chinese (and other) restaurants today no longer use MSG. If in doubt, ask the manager or waiters, and instruct them accordingly.

As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let us remember His teachings and embrace our suffering fellowmen with compassion and care during this sacred season of sharing. That is the best gift we can give ourselves.

Here’s wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with love, good health, joy, peace, prosperity, and a long life to enjoy them. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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

For more data, visit philipSchua.com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

CJ

DECEMBER 23-29, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Business news

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Filipino startups lack in ‘scaling up’ PH to open OFW bank in Sept 2017…

by PatriCia loUrdes Philstar.com

viray

PANGLAO, Philippines — Lack of innovation is not the main reason why most startup companies don’t make it big.

During the Ocean Summit in Panglao, Bohol a few weeks ago, broadcast journalist Karen Davila dismissed the notion that the success rate of startup companies is big.

“One percent of startups only succeed,” Davila said.

Davila noted that the founders of successful companies now such as Uber and Airbnb are not from the Philippines.

Unilab Foundation Rhodora Palomar-Fresnedi said that Filipinos are innovative but lack in different aspects.

“We’re not lacking in innovation. We’re lacking in patience, professionalism and scale up in terms of dreaming big and going beyond,” Fresnedi said.

“We don’t really dream big,” Davila agreed.

Fresnedi added that Filipinos tend to be content with what they have. This not entirely good or bad but this is also not the key to building a “mega-billion” company.

“My thought has always been think big, start small, move fast.

We fail on the move fast bit because we become very happy,” Fresnedi said.

Meanwhile, PLDT Disruptive Business Group Head Benedict Patrick Alcoseba said that Filipinos have great ideas but lack in the sustainability side.

“The challenge we’ve had is

Bank will be completed by the third quarter of 2017, after all required procedures are completed and approvals are secured. The LandBank has sufficient resources to complete this transaction,” said Dominguez, who chairs the LandBank board of directors.

As of September 30 this year, LandBank ranked as the country’s 4th largest commercial bank with total capital of P90.9 billion and assets worth P1.3 trillion.

The DOF noted that a bank dedicated to the needs of OFWs is one of the promises of President Rodrigo Duterte to Filipino migrant workers.

LandBank President Alex Buenaventura said it would take Young Global Leaders Analisa Belares (CEO & Founder, Womensphere & NewChampions5050), eight months to accomplish the Richard Dacalos (Co-Founder, Upstart the Board Game & SPIN), Sen. Bam Aquino, Winston requirements that would convert Damarillo (Head of PLDT Capital / Executive Chairman, Amihan Global) and Karen Davila the Postal Bank into a LandBank (Broadcast Journalist, ABS-CBN) wrap up the Ocean 2016 Summit at BE Grand Resort in subsidiary.

Panglao, Bohol.

OCEAN Summit “The OFW bank will be a listed company with an authorized capnot the lack of entrepreneurial Alcoseba also noted that there ital of P3 billion and a subscribed spirit but the scaling up part and should be a movement from the capit al of P2 billion, of which P1 I try to think why we have not government to support venture billion is paid up by the LandBank. Another P1 billion will be scaled up. Looking at examples capital. from abroad it’s an ecosystem “I think we have not really thing,” Alcoseba said in the same thought about the impact we can conference. make as a people with our ideas The ideas are great but there if we go beyond 7,107 islands is no place to make it bigger, Al- and maybe we should start now. PAGE CJ1 t coseba said.

All of those ideas in a way that time. “Real estate is something “Although we are resilient as a they could really, truly change that comes in finite quantities. people, if these ideas are not nur- the world from wherever we This ensures that what you invested in right now will be worth tured, these ideas are not sup- are,” Fresnedi said. ported, are not granted a place or The Ocean Summit is a bi- more five or 10 years from now,” platform where it can grow big- annual gathering of the World Lamudi said.

It noted that demand for homes ger into something that the origi- Economic Forum community in is always present, be it from expat nal owner envisioned for then it the Philippines, where leaders dies a natural death. That’s a re- across sectors connect and dis- renters, newlywed couples and starting families looking to find a ality,” Alcoseba said. cover new ideas. n good place to raise kids; or even a growing family whose kids are now starting to go to school and therefore need a place that is as the emergency or urgent nature ation, but not to exceed one (1) accessible as it is livable.

Property investments can also of the applicant’s circumstances, year. However, an extension may and proof that applicant has tried be requested. Humanitarian Pa- be utilized in different ways, to secure a visa and/or applied role does not give a parolee any like leasing it out to cater to the for waiver of inadmissibility but permanent immigration status growing Filipino workforce in was denied. In cases of medi- and does not authorize a parolee the Metro Manila’s business districts, it said. cal emergencies, there must be to work in the United States.

“With a constant stream of an accompanying medical cer*** tificate regarding the diagnosis; Atty. Aurora Vega-Buzon is a partner in renters coming into the market, lack of appropriate treatment in Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal the home country or neighbor- Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm ing country; duration and cost of with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and treatment in the United States; Philippines. The information presented in ability to pay for the treatment; this article is for general information only PAGE CJ3 t and evidence of strong ties to the and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal in the third quarter of the year home country to guarantee ap- advice nor the formation of an attorney- – P5.5. billion or 20.4 percent of plicant’s return to his/her home client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an the total – would finance projects country. in-person or phone consultation to discuss in the National Capital Region.

An initial grant of parole is only your particular situation and/or how their Other prominent investment desfor a set period of time that cor- services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; tinations are: Soccsksargen (P4.7 responds with the length of the (415) 495-8088; auvega@ctvattys.com billion, 17.7 percent of total) and emergency or humanitarian situ(Advertising Supplement) Negros Island Region (P4.5 bil-

Humanitarian Parole for urgent medical…

PAGE CJ2 t

parole furthers the National Intelligence mission, or aliens whose parole is sought by the Department of State Cooperative Threat Reduction Program or by the Intelligence Community.

The above list is non-exhaustive and USCIS will adjudicate all other parole applications that are not otherwise assigned to ICE and/or the CBP. Only a foreign national or alien who is outside the United States can apply for Humanitarian Parole. Anyone may file the application - the parole applicant himself, a sponsoring relative, an attorney, or any other interested individual or organization. The application must be accompanied by supporting documentation of

PAGE CJ1 t

open for subscription to OFWs who can acquire them by buying shares in the bank,” Buenaventura said.

The DOF said LandBank will have to seek clearances from the Governance Commission for Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GCG) and the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), as well as approvals from the Monetary Board, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for the OFW bank to be operational by September 1, 2017.

“We are going to do focus group discussions with representatives of our target markets to determine where and what services are needed, and what name and logo to adopt for the bank,” Buenaventura said.

While the OFW bank is still in the process of being established, Dominguez said LandBank “will seek to establish a unit in Saudi Arabia to assist the OFWs there.”

LandBank will set up a repre-

sentative office in Saudi Arabia to cater to the banking needs of some 800,000 Filipino workers based in that country.

Buenaventura said LandBank decided to open its Saudi unit in Riyadh because 40 percent of OFWs based in that country reside there.

“The LandBank unit will be opened near the Philippine labor office or near a place where OFWs usually converge and meet,” he said.

Buenaventura said the Riyadh unit will initially offer financial education and investment counseling services to OFWs. He said that starting January 2, 2017, LandBank, with the involvement of the Commission on Audit and the BSP, will begin undertaking due diligence to start the process of converting the Postal Bank into a LandBank subsidiary.

LandBank would also have to draw up a purchase agreement and amend its articles and bylaws to formalize its acquisition of the Postal Bank, he added. n

a rental condo is a great way to earn passive income,” the property listing site said.

In addition, it said that balikbayans are now more capable of investing in properties due to the depreciation of the Philippine peso against the US dollar.

On Monday, Dec. 19 the Philippine peso closed at P49.96 to the dollar, 4 centavos lower from the P49.92 exchange rate recorded on Friday, Dec. 16.

In a separate report, real estate services firm Jones Lang LaSalle noted that the weakening of the peso against the dollar could fuel stronger demand for residential properties from overseas Filipinos due to their higher spending power.

“The recent PHP depreciation against the US dollar may strengthen the purchasing pow-

er of overseas Filipino families, potentially increasing overseas Filipino demand for residential units,” JLL said.

Competition to attract buyers in the market is driving developers to offer new amenities to their developments, Lamudi said.

“In order to set themselves apart from their competitors, Philippine real estate developers are coming up with clever ways to provide their buyers more value for their money’s worth,” Lamudi observed.

It cited Megaworld Corporation as one such developer, which introduced new amenities such as coworking spaces for budding entrepreneurs, multipurpose spaces for socials and events, and pause and play rooms, in its Makati condo projects such as The Ellis and San Antonio Residences. n

Weak peso lures balikbayans into…

Foreign investment pledges plunge… lion, 16.9 percent of total).

Combined investments of foreign and Filipino nationals in the third quarter reached P133.8 billion, down 20.4 percent from P168.2 billion in the same period last year.

All projects approved by the seven IPAs in the third quarter

are expected to create 33, 590 jobs, out of which 83.2 percent would come from projects with foreign interest.

Foreign investments approved by the investment promotion agencies differ from actual investment inflows reported by the central bank. n

(650) 689-5160 • http://www.asianjournal.com

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 23-29, 2016

NAFCON supports Migrante and grassroots movement of migrants Readies Filipinos in the US for impacts of Trump administration in 2017 and beyond

ON International Migrants Day 2016, the National Alliance for Filipino Concerns (NAFCON) vows to continue the struggle to protect and advance the rights and welfare of Filipinos across the U.S., alongside all peoples who have continued to struggle this year but feel increasingly at risk from an incoming Trump administration.

The close to 1 million undocumented Filipinos and 12 million undocumented immigrants from around the world in the U.S. were directly threatened this year by then presidential candidate Donald Trump who promised to deport them all and build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as soon as he takes office. He also personally attacked women, Muslim, LGBTQ, black and people of color communities in his campaign, and this has already unmasked the sexism, racism, Islamophobia and homophobia in this country, leaving our communities increasingly polarized, while he mobilized millions of voters dissatisfied with the worsening economic situation to target and scapegoat these communities and elect him as president. Unfortunately, both here in the U.S. and around the world, Trump will only exacerbate these problems, and we must ready ourselves for the challenge ahead. NAFCON vows to continue to stand firm with grassroots movements for change in the U.S. and will mobilize all of its resources and strength to defend our community and build grassroots power to turn the tide on this “right turn” in U.S. politics.

As exploitation, forced migration, and wars of aggression increasingly rage on all over the world, particularly in Syria and across the Middle East, the displacement of migrants and the current refugee crisis is at a critical stage. NAFCON, together with the International Migrants Alliance (IMA), participated in a September UN Forum in New York on the Massive Movement of Migrants and Refugees, which is aiming for a 2018 global compact for “safe, orderly and regular migration.” IMA has stated

East Bay

Silicon Valley

San Francisco

that, “While such will answer some concerns of migrants, it will not resolve the larger economic, political and social issues of migration. It may even be used to further restrict borders and legitimize the criminalization of undocumented migrants.” Both internationally and here in the U.S., we can expect that both the UN and Trump’s policies on migrants and refugees will continue to expose them to scapegoating, discrimination, harsh enforcement measures, and continued exploitation. But through grassroots organizing and mobilization with IMA, we can build the international movement of migrants and refugees to offer more concrete and lasting solutions to this mounting crisis.

NAFCON also congratulates the international grassroots organization of Migrante on its 20th anniversary this Decem-

ber 18th. With almost 10 overseas chapters and affiliates of Migrante in the U.S., overseas Filipinos are bonding together to tackle the issues of forced migration, wage theft, trafficking, discrimination, and exploitation faced by Filipino migrant workers here and across the globe.

On Migrante’s 20th anniversary, NAFCON stands together with Migrante International chapters all over the world to demand that the ongoing Peace Talks address the root causes of forced migration and end the bankrupt Labor Export Policy of the Philippines.

NAFCON has waged powerful campaigns in 2016 to support peace and development in our homeland, the rights and welfare of our kababayans (fellow Filipinos) in the U.S., and the struggles for justice of indigenous, immigrant, people of color, and

CJ

Russian Federation Consulate hosts closing reception for ‘Tiempo Russo Tubabao Island’ exhibit

THE Russian-American Congress, in partnership with the Consulates of the Russian Federation and the Philippines, hosted the closing reception for the “Tiempo Russo Tubabao Island” Exhibit, held at the Russian Consulate on November 17.

The event closes the monthlong celebrations in honor of the 65th anniversary of the exodus of Russian refugees from Tubabao Island to the United States, and the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations of the Philippines and Russia.

The Philippine Consulate hosted an Exhibit entitled “Tiempo Russo Tubabao Island” from October 18 to November 11, 2016 at the Kalayaan Hall, followed by the film showing of “Tubabao Odyssey,” which recounts the experiences of White Russians who were forced to leave Shangai in the late 1940s. In partnership with the Philippine Embassy in Moscow, an exhibit was held in Russia as part of the celebrations.

The closing reception, attended mainly by the Russian-American Community, some of whom

resided in Tubabao Island, were welcomed by Consul General Sergey V. Petrov. The Consul General recounted the events leading up to the closing reception, emphasizing the profound shared history of the Philippines and Russia.

Consul General Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. quoted from the speech of President Elpidio Quirino’s 1949 Inaugural Address, when he said that the Philippines has “consistently followed the policy of establishing friendly contacts with every nation, convinced that in international relations, friendship, goodwill and the spirit of

helpfulness are not only the most economic and lasting sources of power of influence but the surest guarantee of security and universal peace.”

In line with Post’s thrusts to “Spark* Connect* Empower” the Filipino-American community, the Consulate’s engagement with the Russian Community serves to bring greater awareness to the open and generous nature of Filipinos, something that should be celebrated, shared and made a source of inspiration for the Filipino-American community. n

working class communities. With our ongoing relief, rehabilitation, and development programs promoting Environmental Justice for the Philippines, we have engaged in solidarity, relief, and medical missions and successfully completed and documented one of our first water systems in the Talaingod region of Mindanao. We have continued to wage campaigns in support of trafficking and wage theft victims across the country, helping them to organize and advocate for justice, adjust their status, reunite with their families, and recover millions of dollars in unpaid wages.

From supporting both the Lakbay Lumad Tour across the US and Gabriela’s powerful mobilization to stop the “Mail Order Family” NBC show, NAFCON connected the struggles of our kababayan in the Philippines and in the US to the struggles of indigenous people like the Sioux Tribe at Standing Rock, and immigrant

and black communities across the country against mass incarceration, deportation, and police racism, violence, and killings.

We also engaged Filipinos in the US to participate in the May 2016 Philippine elections and contribute to the Migrants’ Agenda, and we continue to mobilize them through the Kababayan4Change platform for true justice and lasting change in the Philippines.

We will continue to build our grassroots power through waging even more powerful campaigns in the years ahead, with the over 4 million Filipinos in the U.S. and in solidarity with all struggling peoples throughout the United States.

In 2017, we call on all our kababayans to join us, as we support grassroots organizing and build NAFCON into an even more powerful alliance. We are currently launching educational forums, and we will immediately share resources from our suc-

cessful work across 23 different cities such as “Know Your Rights” information for all immigrants and workers. Join us in mobilizations across the country on inauguration day, January 20th to raise the calls and demands from Filipino migrant, workers’ rights, and other progressive groups.

We will defend our communities and advance our rights and welfare in this country, in the Philippines, and around the world no matter who is in office, and we know that when we work together and stay grounded in our communities, we will find the solutions and build the power we all need. On this 2016 International Migrants Day, we recommit ourselves to building the grassroots movement of migrants, refugees and people’s struggles with our kababayans and with all people demanding and fighting for change, progress and peace, in the Philippines, US, and around the world. n

CJ

DECEMBER 23-29, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160

Friday, December 23, 2016

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cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 23, 2016

Director & filmmaker Jon Jon Augustavo on his artistic purpose and discovering his Filipino heritage by

ONE afternoon, award-winning director and filmmaker Jon Jon Augustavo visited Unidad Park in Los Angeles’ Historic Filipinotown neighborhood, which houses the largest Filipino-American mural in the country.

Surveying the work of art before him, Augustavo pointed to prominent Filipino and Fil-Am figures across various decades—those he’s seen or read about in the news or history books.

Augustavo—whose mother is Filipina—grew up in Seattle and didn’t really know much about his Filipino heritage, other than it physically made him look different from his peers.

“It makes you wonder about who you are and where you fit in,” he told the Asian Journal. “My past is littered with me trying to find where I fit in.”

Over the past few years, especially since moving to Los Angeles, he has made more of an effort to identify and learn more about the Fil-Am culture.

“It’s important that I know about the side that makes me look different and to be proud of it. I say I am Filipino American, even though I’m not sure culturally what that means. I’m not afraid to say it. But, I’d love to learn more about the cultural side,” he said. “Someone will say, ‘do you like this food?’ but I’ve never had it because I didn’t grow up with that. I grew up with a mother who was told to be an American.”

Artistic purpose With parents who are artists in their own right, Augustavo showed creative promise and drifted towards drawing, paint-

Christina M. Oriel / AJPress

Enjoying halo halo

ing, and sculpting at an early age. Then, he began exploring the world of filming and editing when he received his first camera as a teenager.

Guided by this hobby, he graduated from Washington State University’s Murrow College of Communication and landed his first job in writing and producing news at a station in San Diego.

However, he was dissatisfied with this career path and played around with being behind the camera by making amateur music videos for friends in Seattle. He eventually enrolled in a graduate film program at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California.

“My friends were rappers and musicians and it seemed like something I could be good at. From there, I went to school for film and now I do it for a living. I started making shorts and commercials.

My hobby became my job,” Augustavo said.

One of Augustavo’s most notable creations is the music video for Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’ “Thrift Shop,” a hip-

Director and filmmaker Jon Jon Augustavo

hop song that topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2013.

That same year, Augustavo also went on to collaborate with the rapper and producer duo on videos for “Can’t Hold Us” and “Same Love.”

The three videos were nominated for six MTV Video Music Awards. “Can’t Hold Us” won Best Cinematography and Best Hip Hop Video, while “Same Love” won Best Video with a Social Message. “Can’t Hold Us” was also nominated for Best Music Video at the 2014 Grammy Awards.

“When I worked with Macklemore, it still felt like I was playing around. I was still in film school and we were buddies. ‘Thrift Shop’ was made with just friends. We had high school kids helping me.

It was still the environment of film school, so I don’t consider that a professional job even though it was the biggest thing I’ve ever done,” Augustavo reflected.

Though working with Macklemore helped ignite his career as a director, Augustavo considers “Make A Little Room” for R&B artist Jarvis his

first “professional” video since it was for Capitol Records and had a bigger budget.

“This thing for Capitol was different. I had no friends on the job, everyone was professional and had that jaded professional attitude. I was this young director and no one gave me any respect. The label was very disrespectful. It was a very tough experience, but I needed that,” he said. “I grew up very quick from that one job. That was a tough video. The other day I was just reflecting on it with a friend, who was my one friend on the job. We walked away from it like, ‘Do we want to do this anymore?’”

In nearly four years, he has worked with chart-topping artists, such as Shawn Mendes for several videos, including breakout hit “Stitches,” and Mike Posner for “I Took a Pill in Ibiza” (SeeB Remix).

Augustavo’s artistic style of turning a song into a narrative has since progressed, as well. He counts director Spike Jonze as one of his role models.

“I think narcissistically or

selfishly I look up to him because he started in the same place as me. He was kind of viewed as this young whippersnapper type and didn’t have a lot of depth to him because he was making these cool, funky videos. The guy’s making these very emotional, heartfelt films that are winning Academy Awards, [while simultaneously] making commercials to dramatize a lamp sitting on the sidewalk. Originally he didn’t get respect because he was making crazy videos, but he was using that to try things out… It’s cool to see that a guy like that, who started similarly to me, is now a very respected, A-level director for film and commercials,” Augustavo said.

These days, Augustavo said he will only accept music video gigs that give him the creative freedom and confidence from the artist to execute his ideas.

“I used to just do really pretty shots and make the artist look good. I almost never use the artist anymore, just because I gravitate more towards film now and am

AJPress photos by Noel Ty

trying to make movies. The last couple of years I’ve only done narrative. You can’t really do commercials if you don’t do narrative already because they want you to tell a story in 30 seconds, but in videos, that’s not necessary. Like 5 percent of videos are stories.

They say ‘you don’t want that,’ but those are the videos you remember. Over the last three and a half years of videos, I’ve become more of just a narrative director. I have moved away from performance and style, which have been great.

When I do videos, they’re definitely more of my video than the artist’s video. That’s the trust they give you when they hand it over to you,” the director said.

Despite his success as a music video director, Augustavo’s focus is shifting more toward making films. One way he is continuing to develop his craft is by constantly creating videos, even daily, consuming art and asking for feedback from fellow creatives.

“I’m still an infant as a director; I’ve been doing it for Continued on Page SF4

Anne Curtis confirms engagement to Erwan Heussaff

by Iza IglesIas ManilaTimes.net

After six long years of being together, ABS-CBN host-actress Anne Curtis and restaurateur-food blogger erwan Heussaff are officially engaged. the couple hinted on the good news via their respective Instagram accounts. thirty-one year old Curtis posted a photo of her and Heussaff locked in a kiss with the caption “Je t’aime mon amour,” which is french for “I love you my dear.”

Meanwhile, Solenn Heusaff’s little brother captioned his post with the invitation, “Check out our latest video on Youtube, link in the bio. Highlights of our pretty amazing New York and Connecticut trip with this lovely lady. She’s a keeper.” And there, the revelation was made public in a six-minute video [posted both on facebook and Youtube] initially showing the couple on the said U.S. holiday in November. the latter part of the video went on to show Curtis and Heussaff’s adventures since 2010, and finally by the 5:45 mark, the video finds the pair quietly sitting in the woods. Moments later, an emotional Heussaff knelt down, and opened a small box of what appeared to be an engagement ring. He then told Curtis,” “I’ve

tatad Philstar.com

“I DON’t want people to think that I keep getting things because of my last name, because it’s really not that,” says Julia Barretto. With fire in her eyes and a certain surge of defiance she adds, “they think it’s so much easier for me to get jobs. It’s not. You can see it in my career that your last name will not get you places; it’s your performance, it’s the way you deliver that’s going to take you places.”

What Barretto means when she speaks so candidly is the fact that her career trajectory has

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – December 23, 2016

PH bet Catriona Gray makes it to Top 5

by arlo

CustodIo ManilaTimes.net

NINeteeN-year-old Stephanie Del Valle of Puerto rico was crowned Miss World 2016 in glittering rites held at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, USA on Sunday, Dec. 18.

She was crowned by 2015’s year’s titleholder, Mireia LalaAfter six year together, Erwan Heussaff and Anne Curtis are finally engaged. guna of Spain. Named first your wedding hashtag kaya?.” never been more sure of anyrunner-Up was Miss Dominican It will be remembered back thing in my life.” republic Yaritza Miguelina in May that Curtis said in an Surprised and teary-eyed, reyes ramirez, while Miss Ininterview that she is not in a the popular actress exclaimed, donesia Natasha Mannuela was rush to get married even if her “Yes!” the video has since Second runner-Up. friends took the plunge one by garnered 5.2 million views and Miss Philippines Catriona one this year. Collectively known Gray finished in the top 5, more than 385,000 likes on as the “It Girls,” Georgina facebook. along with Miss Kenya evelyn Wilson tied the knot with Arthur Njambi. Gray was included in family and friends have also Burnand in London on April 30; gone online to congratulate the the “fast track” winners for Solenn Heussaff married Nico newly engaged couple starting garnering the most number of Bolzico in france on May 21; off with Curtis’ sister Jasmine, likes for her introductory video and in September, Isabelle Daza online. who posted, “I am the happiest exchanged “I do’s” with Adrien little sestra for you @annecurtisfor the Question and smith congratulations to you and Semblat in Italy.

Answer portion, Del Valle was While Curtis and her finance asked by Miss World 1975 @erwanheussaff! Never doubted have yet to announce the exact the forever everyone sees in Wilnelia Lady forsyth of Puerto date of their wedding, it really your relationship. God may have rico what she would change given you the biggest challenges does seem like the “It’ Girls” about the world if given the caught the wedding bug in a in life but He also showers you opportunity. major way—and everyone is with the best blessings that you She replied, “If I have the deserve! woot woot! what will be simply happy for them. opportunity to change something about the world, I think what I would do is send a message of how important it is to change exclusion for accepBarretto already faced an uphill tance to promote and provide climb in the industry, with the justice for others, and the simple matter of her last name. importance of helping those in It’s not just belonging to a clan need. thank you.” of women who’ve left indelible Gray, on the other hand, marks on the industry, but having received her question from a face that echoes some of their the outgoing Miss World, who best features. to many, she is asked, “Which qualities do you the ghost of the Barrettos’ past, think it will take to wear my making it more difficult to get crown?” away from her larger-than-life the fil-Aussie model relations. “When I work, I really “I just want to be appreciated and recognized answered, “I think, first of all, give 100 percent. But the credit as Julia. Julia who gave it her all, and Julia who always goes to my last name still; it takes bravery. to be a Miss earned this project because she did well — not World is to carry a burning it’s as if I didn’t put hard work because she’s a Barretto,” the young actress says. torch. It is like action carried into it.

So one day, I just want to Philstar.com photo by Shaira Luna out by one to illuminate the be appreciated and recognized not been simple and straightforas Julia. Julia who gave it her all, lives of many. And I would dediward. At the tender age of 19, Continued on Page SF6 cate my whole self, my love for

Julia Barretto on becoming a serious actress by gabbIe

entertainment SF3 Puerto rican model crowned Miss World 2016

Puerto Rico’s Stephanie Del Valle was crowned by 2015’s year’s titleholder, Mireia Lalaguna of Spain.

Named First Runner-Up was Miss Dominican Republic Yaritza Miguelina Reyes Ramirez, while Miss Indonesia Natasha Mannuela was Second Runner-Up. Miss Philippines Catriona Gray finished in the Top 5, along with Miss Kenya Evelyn Njambi

the arts and my voice to try to uplift, empower and educate people. And it would be my greatest honor and duty to hold this torch high enough so that all the world could fee and see its light. thank you.” the non-win of Gray did not sit well with beauty pageant aficionados in the Philippines and around the world who expressed on social media that on beauty and intelligence alone, she is far better than the top 3 winners.

Gray’s trainer, Jonas Gaffud, however, posted on facebook early Monday that filipinos should be proud of the country’s bet top 5 finish.

“Hey c’mon Philippines. If we won, no hatred on face-

book right? But we did not.

Let’s be proud as filipinos and pageant fans of our girl Catriona Gray. for us she will be always our Miss World. But there are other families, friends and fans who root for their girl as well. I exchanged pleasantries with an older guy who was so proud of Miss Puerto rico and he told me, he’s the father. I was touched by how happy he was for his daughter. remember this: We are not alone in this world. there are others.” Gaffud ended his post with the hashtag #beasport.

Miss World 2013 Megan Young of the Philippines hosted the event, her third year in a row since 2014 when she relinquished her crown.

SF4

celebrityworld

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 23, 2016

celebrity world

By Ferdie Villar AFTER the proposal video of celebrity chef Erwan Hessauff’s proposal to actress and TV host Anne Curtis, another couple is now engaged as well.

TV host and singer Billy Crawford also recently proposed to girlfriend Coleen Garcia, and the engagement was announced last Wednesday, Dec. 21, via an Instagram post by the couple’s friend, filmmaker Gino Santos.

The post was a photo of Billy on his knees, showing Coleen an engagement ring.

The photo caption read, “Omg! This just happened!!! Congratulations @coleengarcia & @ billyjoecrawford I love you both! #ColeenSaidYes.” Coleen and Billy have been together for a little over two years, having made public their relationship in 2014. This was

just months after Billy’s muchpublicized break up with then girlfriend, actress Nikki Gil (Nikki married businessman BJ Albert in 2015).

The 24-year-old Coleen started as a commercial model when she was only 2 years old.

She then became one of the co-hosts of “Showtime,” leaving the show after a four-year stint to focus on her acting career.

She began with a supporting role in the film “She’s The One,” and then made headlines in the Cinemalaya indie film, “Y.” Coleen followed up with impressive performances in “Ex with Benefits” and “Love Me Tomorrow.”

Billy, who is now 34 years old, is no stranger to showbiz.

Starting in the industry as child actor Billy Joe Crawford, the FilAm entertainer was a mainstay

Billy Crawford and Coleen Garcia are now engaged

Actress and TV host Anne Curtis recently confirmed her engagement with celebrity chef Erwan Hessauff.

The proposal was done last month in Connecticut but it was only last Sunday, December 18, that the actress posted the video on social media.

Singer and TV host Billy Crawford proposed to girlfriend Coleen Garcia last Wednesday, Dec. 21. The couple has been together for a little over two years.

Ampy Lim, former president of the Filipino-American Society, Inc. celebrated her 80th birthday at Tribu Restaurant in Union City recently. Shown in photo abover are (L-R, standing) Greg, Godfrey, Vicente, Steve Serman, Tony and Paul; (L-R, seated) birthday celebrant Ampy Lim and her only daughter Shiela Lim Kyo.

All set to open their gifts from Santa Claus are AJ and Abigail Perez, children of Anthony and Vangie Perez from Antioch.

Ampy Lim, former president of the Filipino-American Society, Inc. celebrated her 80th birthday at Tribu Restaurant in Union City. The celebrant is shown in photo with Tess Gregorio, president of the Forever Young Club of California.

Ermin and Theresa Apolinario will be spending Christmas with their daughter Jessica, daughter-in-law Lihn and son Joshua at their residence in Springfield.

Daly City Filipino restaurant proprietress Annabel Guevarra will be one of the Hermana Mayors for the 38th Annual Fiesta of the Padre Jesus Nazareno de Quiapo on January 9, 2017.

of German Moreno’s youth-oriented variety show, “That’s Entertainment.” He was casted in several movies, but then immigrated to the United States with his family; and later on move to Paris and London. He was able to build a career internationally as a recording artist, and at one time, a back-up dancer for Michael Jackson.

In 2007, he returned to Manila to revive his career as a host, recording artist and actor.

He met Coleen in “It’s Showtime,” when they were both co-hosts.

As for Erwan and Anne, their engagement happened last month during their trip together in New York and Connecticut when they joined the NY Marathon. The six-minuteplus video of their trip and proposal however, was only shared on social media last Sunday, Dec. 18.

Erwan is French-Filipino and the brother of model/entertainer Solenn Heussaff, who is also close friends with Anne.

Congratulations to both Billy and Coleen, and Erwan and Anne!

Director & filmmaker Jon Jon Augustavo...

From Page SF2 three years. The only way to get good at this is to always be making and always consuming film and art. Before I was a professionally doing it, I was always trying to make things.It takes something in you just to always be creating or writing. I have so many scripts I’ve written that no one has read. It’s just that I had an idea, it’s like talking to you. I have an idea and I need to get it out. You need that exercise to get better and think of another idea.

You also have to know what’s out there. Watch everything, good or bad,” he shared.

“I’m very lucky to have some very talented people whose work I can look at and talk to. They help me be better, they ask questions, they push you. There’s few that I trust a lot, but I do have friends that are in a similar field as me that I can trust to push me.

Their questions aren’t to hurt you. They’ll read your script and say, ‘Why is it this way?

What is this? It doesn’t work for me,’ because I trust them. they’re not saying it to cut your legs out, they want it to be better. They inspire me just as much as anything else.”

In the latter part of this year, he has worked on two short films and shot videos in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Detroit, New Jersey and New Orleans “that show emotion and a different side of the United States, not just stereotypes,” he said.

“Honestly, the biggest dream in my life is to do a feature film. I think I set out to do that. That’s my goal in life.

I love music videos, but it’s never going to fully be your project — as much as I make it that. As much as you can, you can’t fully put yourself into it because there are people making sure it speaks to the song,” he shared. “With a film, it’s the closest it can be to your own voice the director or artist. My goal has always been to make a film that speaks to who I am as a person, director, artist or whatever it is. My main goal, main dream is to do that. And to have someone allow me to make what I think is right with the story I want to tell.”

On visiting the Philippines One of his plans in the coming months is to visit the Philippines to scout locations for a film idea he has been developing a script for. He

also intends for this trip to be a learning experience about where his mother’s side of the family hails from.

“I come from a family that is stereotypically not Filipino. I have my mom and one auntie, who has one daughter. My grandparents have passed away, we don’t know our family in the Philippines or how to connect with them. I grew up 0 percent Filipino. People would ask me, ‘What are you? Where are you from?” he said.

Since he didn’t grow up idolizing a particular figure who looked like him, he hopes he can break stereotypes on Asian American males and be an inspiration for future Fil-Ams who want to make it in the entertainment industry too.

“I don’t think it’s going to change overnight, but the more people are proud of their roots, it will help the next generation be proud of it too.

It’s not like you have to stand on a soapbox and say it, but at least feel more comfortable in your skin. It’s very difficult growing up, especially where I did, to be proud and comfortable that I am how I am,” he said.

entertainment

Eugene Domingo awakens by irish

SF5

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 23, 2016

Christianne dizOn Philstar.com

YOU will never see Eugene Domingo celebrate her anniversaries in show business on some Sunday afternoon variety show.

Though she has been around for more than two decades, she doesn’t really count her years.

Perhaps it’s because the Eugene Domingo we know was the product of a “very, very Filipino home,” a home where the timeless movies of Gloria Romero and Dolphy were lunchtime entertainment. (The first time Eugene saw living legend Gloria Romero, her instinctive reaction was, “Colored pala siya eh.

Akala ko black and white.”)

In that home, tuning in to AM radio was a family habit.

They listened to the baritone of Rod Navarro every morning, with Eugene secretly hoping the announcer would say classes were suspended. They passed time listening to Tiya Dely as she counselled the problematic Pinoys who sent their letters in. At night, horror radio show “Gabi ng Lagim” sent chills down their spine. This was the era when local TV show choices left much to be desired. But the girl didn’t mind — she had the movies to look forward to. Her mother regularly took Eugene to the cinema; and not the kind we are used to, those adjacent boxes inside malls — no, sir.

They watched La Aunor’s “Himala” and Vilma’s “Relasyon” in those now-extinct stand-alone theaters that were also architectural beauties. “Talagang yung buong building, sine! Tsaka yung pila ng tao na bumibili ng ticket kita mo from the outside. Ibangiba talaga noon. When you say you’re going to watch a movie, it was an occasion,” the actress explains.

In this environment, Eugene fell in love with acting, and she quickly discovered that she was born to be an entertainer.

At school, she relished being called to lead the prayer during flag ceremony. She was the mimic who could do spot-on impressions of her teachers, the “pasikat” who volunteered to host any kind of school gathering.

JC De Vera (rightmost) with Nora Aunor (third from left), Ricky Davao (back) and other cast members of ‘Kabisera’

JC De Vera is in awe of the Superstar After a two-year hiatus from the big screen, Eugene Domingo awakens—just in time for what many say is the renaissance of the Metro Manila Film Festival. ‘Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank’ is back.

Philstar.com photo by Joseph Pascual

Money, money, money At the time, her motivations for getting into the industry were simple. “Pera,” she recalls unflinchingly.

Eugene played bit roles here and there and until she became a household name by way of the very successful soap opera “Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan.” In it, she played the loveable Simang, the lead character’s true friend and protector. Once, during the show’s heyday, as Eugene made her way to ABS-CBN, the tricycle drivers saw her and started screaming, “Simang! Simang! Simang! Simang!” They didn’t stop until she looked their way.

Eugene reveals it was her “Sa Dulo Ng Walang Hanggan” co-star Mylene Dizon (who played antagonist Sally) who was more stoked about the public’s reception. Mylene showed up on set one time with printouts of the comments she saw about the two of them in the online forum Pinoyexchange.com. Eugene appreciated the kind words, of course, but that wasn’t her raison d’etre.

“Sa akin eh, pagdating ng cheke, I’ll get it. Spend it, save.

Tapos. Pag sinabi ni Direk Wenn

Deremas na, ‘Kasama ka dito sa pelikula ni Ai Ai na Tanging Ina, ha?’ ‘Sige, direk.’ Ang naiisip ko nun, ching! ching! ching! Pera!

Pera! Pera!”

It was only when she took on the career-defining dual-role of Kimmy and Dora in the first “Kimmydora” film that Eugene truly felt like she was saying “yes” to showbiz. “Wag na ako, ok na ako,” she told producers when they first offered her the role. Headlining her own film was a big responsibility, one she didn’t want to be put squarely on her shoulders. But the producers were adamant to a point where they allowed her to pick the writer. (She chose Chris Martinez.) In the end, their insistence paid off, with the movie turning out to be an sleeper hit, grossing P77.36M at the box office. The success put Eugene on a league of her own.

But while Eugene’s star rose, her predisposition to take on everything that came her way remained the same. Consider this: In one year, she found herself doing eight movies. “I think I have that record,” she says. “I said yes to everything. I wanted Continued on Page SF6

by riCky

CalderOn ManilaTimes.net

NO actor worth his salt will ever pass on the chance of working with the legendary Superstar Nora Aunor. She is considered one of the finest, if not the greatest actress of her generation.

So when ABS-CBN actor JC De Vera learned of the offer to be in a film with her, he immediately said yes without even asking what the movie was all about.

This is how JC found himself on the set of “Kabisera,” now one of the entries to the 2016 Metro Manila Film Festival. ”Amazing! It was an amazing experience,” said the actor when asked what was it like working with Ate Guy. “I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by her presence. It was a beautiful experience being with her as an actress on and off screen. Sobrang bait niya.”

JC added that Ate Guy was so generous in making her co-stars feel comfortable on the set. “We had many scenes together because we play a family in the movie. I am one of her sons and most

of time I stand close to her in some scenes.”

He would have been starstruck working for the first time with the Superstar, but as JC shared, “Ate Guy is so good-natured. She made the shoot memorable for everyone. There was no pressure, no feeling of anxiety or nervousness. It was a fun set.”

JC said he actually felt more excited than nervous with the thought of working with the Superstar. “I told myself that I should savor that sense of fulfilment of finally doing a scene with her, because for most actors, that’s a once in a lifetime experience. To act with her is a privilege.”

Along with his co-actors JC veritably had an acting workshop with Ate Guy as on the set. “She was very supportive to all of us. She told us that a good team effort would make our scenes come out well. And since ours is a family movie, we made sure that the scenes we did as a family will make the audience feel that we are a real family onscreen.”

In the story, JC plays the responsible son in Ate Guy’s brood. His character is very

straightforward and he knows what he wants in life.

“My mother sees me as someone who can be relied on. I have a very good relationship with my parents and that is one value that this movie hopes to impart to the viewers.”

This year’s festival started on a controversial note after so called “indies” made it as official entries but JC looks at the change as something refreshing.

“I think this experience is teaching us to be openminded. Let’s think that there are other types of movies that are also worth watching.

Let’s embrace the change and accept the idea that we can learn and appreciate other types of movies as well.

These movies have good stories to tell. Let’s give them chance.”

He believes that Kabisera will have a fruitful stint in the festival simply because it’s a good movie. “We are lucky to be part of this festival featuring well-selected entries, and to be one of the Magic 8 is already an honor. Whatever blessing this festival will give Kabisera, I will be more than grateful.”

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entertainment

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 23, 2016

Richard loves Lucy — and his dogs, too by kathy

MOran Philstar.com

WE all know that Richard Gomez loves Lucy Torres-Gomez, but do you know Richard’s other loves — aside from lovely daughter Juliana? Why, it’s dogs and fish.

Richard — actor, model, athlete, director, and now mayor of Ormoc City — grew up with dogs, well into his student days at UP Open University, where he graduated with an Associate in Arts in 2009 and at the University of Perpetual Help System, where he completed his master’s degree in Business Administration in 2016. Not only does he dote on his dogs, he also makes sure they are always at the top of their class.

“I’ve had dogs all my life,” shares Richard “Goma” Gomez. “My first dog was a white Poodle named Princess (laughs).

That was the dog we had in the house.”

As we start this interview, 4th district of Leyte Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez and the couple’s daughter Juliana join us for the pictorial.

There are quite a few other dogs that have come and gone in Goma’s life.

“Does Lucy like dogs?” we ask.

“Yes, she does,” Goma replies. “Just not inside the house.”

“When Richard arrives, the dogs get restless,” says Lucy.

“They don’t do that for me. He kisses all of the dogs first and then he comes inside and kisses me (laughs).”

Vanilla, Moritz, and Alexander are German Shorthaired Pointers (GSP) who live in the Makati home of Richard and Lucy. Natascha, Amanda, and Adonis are in Ormoc and Alexandra is in their Greenhills home.

“How did you get into GSP?” we ask.

Goma tells us he loves going hunting in the mountains — and it came to a point where he noticed that his Labrador could not keep up with the Aspins in

Julia Barretto on becoming...

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A family affair: “Vanilla, my German Short-Haired Pointer, is a Philippine champion,” says Richard Gomez. “Next season, she will get enough points to be a grand champion.” Lucy and Juliana share Richard’s love for dogs.

Philstar.com photo by Joseph Viduya

the area.

So, he asked around what would be a good hunting dog.

He was told the GSP would be perfect. He found the best of the GSP in Romania — he got in touch with a reputable breeder there and thus, Moritz and Natascha were flown in.

“In the past, a dog was a dog was a dog,” shares Lucy.

“But now, because Richard has introduced me to many dogs, I can tell by the way they stand, the way they move, if a dog is good or not.”

“More so with this breed,” adds Goma. “I have joined my dogs in the Philippine Canine Club Inc. (PCCI) dog shows (the top dog show in the country).

Natascha is a Philippine Grand Champion, Hall of Famer, and Asia-Pacific Grand Champion.

Moritz is a Philippine Grand Champion.”

It is the passion in Goma that makes him excel at everything he does.

As an athlete, he competed for the Philippines in fencing, shooting, rowing and volleyball.

When he shows his dogs, they have to be at the top of the circuit.

“He never does anything half-baked,” says a proud Lucy.

“Every time I enter anything, I always want to be the best,” asserts Goma. “As an athlete, when I enter my dogs in the show ring and also my fish,

ganun din — manalo.”

Goma recently joined the Fighting Fish shows — no, he clarifies, the fish don’t fight, they are judged for their beauty.

Goma grew up with a passion for Fighting Fish, which he would buy outside his school.

So successful is Goma with his Fighting Fish that he’s been named Breeder of the Year 2016 and Grand Champion 2016 in the Beta (Fighting Fish) competition.

“The Fighting Fish are beautiful creatures,” Goma gushes.

“May hinahabol na form. The breed has to conform. The breeding season is from January to February.”

Goma sources his fish from Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

What does he like about fish?

“He says it relaxes him,” says Lucy. “When he comes home from work, I know he has arrived because of the dogs barking. But it takes so long before he comes up to the room, and I would catch him downstairs just watching the fish swim.”

Mr. Mayor “As a mayor I want to be known as the best mayor of Ormoc City,” Goma muses.

“Richard is a workaholic, anything he sets his mind to, it’s like he has blinders on and he has to do it. He gives it his all.”

and Julia who earned this project because she did well — not because she’s a Barretto.”

Aside from constant comparisons to her famous kin, Barretto also has to deal with being sized up against her peers. Her contemporaries include Kathryn Bernardo and Liza Soberano, who she is also consistently weighed against. She finds herself up for many similar roles, then being slammed with unkind headlines about her career not exactly taking off or being left in the dust by the other girls.

Barretto considers herself quite guarded and very careful about what she says, which one can tell straight off the bat when interviewing her, but in this case, she speaks frankly. “I’m so tired. I don’t want to deal with it anymore. I tell myself, ‘Get over it, stop looking at other people and look inside yourself. Everyone is so different, stop wasting your time comparing yourself

to other people and being pressured by them.’” Barretto pauses thoughtfully. “I have this understanding and belief that it’s destiny. You can’t compare yourself to other people. Their path and your path are very different and you’re not going to end up in the same place as everybody.

You have to focus on your path, because if you focus on what’s meant for other girls, you’re going to end up just like everybody else. That’s not what you want.

You want to make something of yourself.”

Serious actress What she really wants to make of herself is to become a serious actress — not one who can simply cry on cue but someone who can tackle a myriad of genres with a wide range of skills. In the upcoming weeks, Barretto can be seen onscreen portraying the title role of Kath in Star Cinema’s 2016 MMFF entry Vince and Kath and James. Based on the viral online

Eugene Domingo...

romance written by Jenny Ruth Almocera, the film is a romantic comedy about teenagers falling in love over text, and presents Barretto as having not only one leading man, but two.

The film also marks many firsts for Barretto, who considers herself a realist and non-romantic. She details a scene with Ronnie Alonte, who plays bad boy basketball jock James, where he shows up looking fresh, leaning against his car and flashing his pearly whites. “I was surprised by how kilig I got! Even all the way into dubbing, when I watched the scene again, it stayed with me! I don’t have that a lot in real life.” We took that to mean that there was no special someone in the picture, and Barretto gives us an adorably frustrated grimace. “I’m not even texting with anyone right now!”

She laughs, a little embarrassed by her own reaction, and says, “Ugh, I’m being really frank.”

Boys, let this be your cue.

her hands, and encourages her to throw lines with him to From Page SF5 pause. She breaks into laughter. coax out the emotions necessary for their takes. Eugene is a On the 25th, her latest film to be a part of everybody’s little more practical than Echo. shall premiere at the MMFF. It’s dream, I wanted to try all the “Aaminin ko yun sa inyo, when roles.” This would not have been called “Ang Babae Sa Septic I need to do a drama scene, Tank 2: Forever’s Not Enough,” a problem if she didn’t have naku Diyos ko, hihintayin pa ba the follow-up to the 2011 Cinthe work ethic she has. You see, nating ma-imagine kong pugot emalaya entry-turned-highest Eugene is very hands on, from na yung mga ulo ng mga aso the clothes to the makeup to the grossing Filipino independent ko? Ang tagal di ba? Antok na film until 2014. While the first script, she will give her inputs. antok na kayo oh. ‘Akin na yung film satirized the making of an By the time she finished all her indie movie and “poverty porn,” menthol,’” she says, making work, she was “burnt out.” So little rubbing motions on her this sequel satirizes the process spent she had to hit pause and and business of creating roman- eyes. “Ang importante lang narecalibrate. Her 2013 indie drama film “Barber’s Tales” also had tic-comedy films, which, for bet- man sa iyakan tumulo yung luha, di ba? Tapos i-push mo na lang ter or for worse, is the country’s a lot to do with her decision to nang konti.” She senses our movie genre du jour. Eugene step back from making movies. shock at this revelation and says, reunites with director Marlon The movie was warmly received “I’m very practical. I don’t take Rivera and screenplay writer abroad, from Tokyo to Italy. these things seriously. If you Chris Martinez, and assures us ‘Ang Babae sa Septic Tank will take this thing seriously, ay. this is even better than the first.

2’ You won’t last. Baka maubos ka.

“I was laughing while reading So how do you make movBaka mapagod ka at maubos ka. the script,” she says. “It’s the ies that cater to your audience Eh ang game na to mananalo ka same type of comedy. It’s solid. without pandering to the public kung buhay ka hanggang dulo.

It’s still wild.” taste, we ask her. “Give them That is really the test of showbiz, A new element is added in substance and entertainment your longevity.” Having clocked the mix in the form of Jericho at the same time. That is the Rosales whom Eugene describes in more than two decades in the challenge,” Eugene retorts. industry, who are we to argue “And what’s an example of a film as a very “helpful, generous” with her wisdom? co-actor. He plays music, holds that gives both,” we counter. A

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - December 23, 2016

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