071417 - San Francisco Edition

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

w w w. a s i a n

.com T H E F I L I P I N O A M E R I CA N C O M M U N I T Y N E WS PA P E R

Volume 16 - No. 29 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

1799 Old Bayshore Hwy, Suite 136, Burlingame, CA 94010 • Tel: (650) 689-5160 • Fax: (650) 239-9253 • www.asianjournal.com

Also published in LOS ANGELES, ORANGE COUNTY/INLAND EMPIRE, LAS VEGAS, NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY

Duterte: I’m ready to die for Marawi

by CHRISTINA

MENDEZ

Philstar.com

MANILA - President Duterte is ready to die for the liberation of Marawi City from the Islamic State (IS)-inspired Maute terror group as he plans to enter the battle zone anew after two failed attempts in recent weeks.

Duterte said he wanted to personally boost the morale of soldiers in Marawi about one and a half months after he declared martial law and suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus when Maute terrorists attacked the city last May 23. “Since they said we came here to die, when I get there and they ask me, ‘Mayor, why are you here? I will tell them I came here also to die,� he said in English and Filipino during the 26th anniversary celebration of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology

USA

(BJMP) at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Wednesday, July 12.

The president has been vocal about his intent to penetrate the conflict area, but his security advisers twice prevented him ostensibly due to bad weather.

Duterte also reiterated his call to the military not to take prisoners, in Marawi, saying this would be an additional burden on government. Since the conflict has caused massive destruction in Marawi looking for a place to lock up the prisoners would be problematic, he said.

Instead, Duterte told the soldiers, “patayin mo (kill them).� “If you apprehend them, take them into custody. They will have to be detained where they committed the crime of rebellion—that’s in Marawi—and they will be tried within the jurisdiction of Marawi, the

DATELINE Study: Tagalog is 2nd most commonly spoken foreign language in Calif.

u PAGE A2

DUTERTE AT BILIBID ANNIVERSARY. President Rodrigo Duterte is welcomed by Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Director SeraďŹ n Barretto Jr. upon his arrival at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City for the 26th anniversary celebration of BJMP on Wednesday, July 12.

MalacaĂąang photo by Karl Norman Alonzo

House Speaker to pursue impeachment raps against Robredo, Sereno

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

TAGALOG is now the second most commonly spoken foreign language in California.

Known as the gateway for Asian immigrants in the United States, California has 2.1 percent or 832,024 Tagalog speakers, according to the latest study by 24/7 Wall St. The report used data from the United States

u PAGE A3

Congressional Gold Medal presentation to WWII Filipino veterans planned for October PLANS are underway for a national celebration honoring Filipino World War II veterans, whose service and sacrifice have been finally recognized by the U.S. with the passage last year of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015, which is now enshrined as Public Law 114-265.

The Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) is

u PAGE A3

J U LY 1 4 - 2 0 , 2 0 1 7

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and Vice Pres. Leni Robredo Philstar.com photos

of Congress may become more colorful,� the House speaker rePHILIPPINE Vice President Leni marked.

The 17th Congress, which is curRobredo and Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno are likely to face rently in recess, is set to resume its impeachment cases in the upcom- second regular session on Monday, ing second regular session of the July 24. “Before I file that, I need to 17th Congress, according to House complete all the supporting docuSpeaker Pantaleon Alvarez.

In an interview with Inquirer, Al- ments. Like the case with the Chief varez said he will file impeachment Justice, once the documents are cases against the two high officials ready, I will not hesitate to file,� he once he finished gathering enough added.

Asked why he is seeking the evidence to support it. “That’s why this second year impeachment of the two high of-

ficials when President Rodrigo Duterte himself seemed dormant in directly attacking them, Alvarez took note that unlike Congress, the chief executive has no power to oust the vice president and the chief justice.

Earlier in March, Duterte expressed opposition to any impeachment attempts against Robredo, telling her critics to “lay off.� “Let’s understand the president.

He cannot impeach anyone. He cannot impeach the vice presi-

u PAGE A2

Marcos confident to overturn Robredo with just 3 recounts in 3 provinces

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

FORMER Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong�

Marcos Jr. is confident that he will overturn Philippine Vice President Leni Robredo’s victory in the May 2016 national elections with just recounts in three provinces.

These provinces, according to Marcos, include Camarines Sur, Iloilo, and Negros Oriental. “I have identified already the three provinces where we were cheated enough to overcome her lead,� Marcos told The Manila Times on Sunday, July 9.

Denying the allegations that he was merely “fishing for evidence� for his electoral protest, Marcos pointed out that his camp had “voluminous files of pieces of evidence.� “In fact, for the last three months volunteers from provinces where cheating oc-

curred never stopped coming to us, to give their affidavits and pinpoint to us where these documents are. We have voluminous files of pieces of evidence,� Marcos said.

In June of last year, Marcos filed an electoral protest against Robredo before the Supreme Court (SC), sitting as the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET), after she won the seat only by a slim margin.

Robredo won the position with around 263,000 votes more than Marcos.

Marcos accused her of committing massive electoral fraud. He also questioned the poll results in 39,221 clustered precincts.

On Tuesday, July 11, Marcos paid his remaining P30 million electoral protest fee, which also covers the recount expenses, ahead of the July 14 deadline set by the PET. Last April, he paid a P36 million as an initial installment.

u PAGE A2

POLL PROTEST ROLLS. former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbongâ€? Marcos Jr. greets supporters after attending the preliminary conference at the Supreme Court on the poll protest he ďŹ led against Vice President Leni Robredo.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Bob Dungo Jr.

JDV pushes for diplomacy amidst geo-political conflict Pacquiao on WBO ruling: ‘Nothing surprises me now’ Former PH house speaker points out need for multicultural understanding

Former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia

SEOUL, Korea – On Monday, July 10, former Philippine Speaker Jose de Venecia identified various geo-political conflict areas in Asia that he said are capable of “difficult, dangerous but not impossible solutions� and of which “some have already been solved.�

Speaking at the first-ever meeting of various political parties from Asia and Europe here, de Venecia suggested that a “history of conflict avoidance and joint development involving rival nations abounds, perhaps as a result of intelligent, creative, humble and

pragmatic diplomacy.�

The founding Chairman of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), Co-Chairman of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), and President Rodrigo Duterte’s Special Envoy for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and Intercultural Dialogue, named the following contested areas: • The Spratlys, claimed by the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan in the South China Sea through which

u PAGE A2

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

FILIPINO boxer Manny Pacquiao was not surprised with the World Boxing Organization (WBO) review result upholding Australian Jeff Horn’s victory, he said this week. “We have seen worse judgments in the past where judges manipulated results. Nothing surprises me now,� Pacquiao told reporters on Tuesday, July 11.

Earlier, the Philippine Games and Amusements Board (GAB) asked the WBO to conduct a “thorough review� for possible miscalls on the recent world

welterweight title bout between terweight title to Horn through Pacquiao and Horn. a controversial unanimous deciCriticisms flooded the internet sion on Sunday, July 2 during a after Pacquiao lost his WBO welu PAGE A3

:;

(550=,9:(9@

79646

* ĂŠ1* 7iĂŠ>Â?ĂƒÂœĂŠĂƒÂŤiVˆ>Â?ÂˆĂ˘iĂŠÂˆÂ˜ E

,"*ĂŠ" " / ,ĂŠ- * /-ĂŠ ", , /1, ĂŠ, - /-

*HSS

9LZ[YPJ[PVUZ (WWS`

^^^ TVUJHYNVZLY]PJLZ JVT

A

july 14-20, 2017 • NORCAl ASIAN jOuRNAl

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

From the Front Page House Speaker to pursue impeachment raps...

PAGE A1 t dent or the chief justice,” Alvarez explained.

He then noted, “But we in Congress, especially the House, have the exclusive right to impeach the vice president, the chief justice, the justices of the Supreme Court and [officials of] constitutional bodies.”

“That’s why I’m speaking out,” he added.

Alvarez pointed out that Robredo “betrayed the public trust” when she sent a video message to United Administration criticizing the Duterte administration’s campaign

PAGE A1 t

against illegal drugs last March.

Two impeachment complaints have been submitted at the House, but they have yet to be endorsed by a congressman.

Sereno, on the other hand, could face impeachment “if there’s truth to the reports” that she forced Court of Appeals Presiding Justice Andres Reyes Jr. to sign a joint statement asking the House to reconsider its show cause order against three CA justices last month, according to Alvarez.

He added that he would also look into reports that Sereno influenced the three CA justices to issue the

release order of the Ilocos officials who have been detained since May for their “dismissive” answers during an investigation into the government’s alleged irregular purchase of P66.45 million-worth vehicles.

Reacting to Alvarez’ statement, Liberal Party (LP) president and Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said conducting impeachment trials against Robredo and Sereno would just be a “waste of time.”

“It will be a waste of our time in the Senate,” said Pangilinan.

Robredo is the LP’s highest elected official.

Marcos confident to overturn Robredo...

“One year had passed, it is too long since May 9 last year. People approached us because they want the public to know what really happened,” Marcos added.

Robredo, on the other hand, has to settle her remaining P15.4 million for her counter-protest on or before July 14. She paid an initial

P8 million deposit earlier in May. Last week, Robredo’s camp accused Marcos of “merely fishing for evidence and not sure of his election protest” when he named the three pilot provinces that could prove the sufficiency of his protest.

“Marcos named the provinces of Camarines Sur, Iloilo, and Negros Oriental; and yet he made a reser-

vation to change any of these provinces,” Robredo’s election lawyer, Romulo Macalintal, said on July 5.

Macalintal went on to say, “He (Marcos) could not establish which three provinces out of the 30 provinces and highly urbanized cities he protested could demonstrate his much talked about electoral frauds and irregularities.” n

SONA PREPARATION. Two weeks ahead of President Rodrigo Duterte’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted a simulation exercise for anticipated protests during the national event. The police force held the simulation exercise at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Saturday, July 8. They tried to train for unmanageable scenarios such as protesters attacking police and throwing protest paraphernalia at them.

Philstar.com photo by Miguel De Guzman

Duterte: I’m ready to die...

PAGE A1 t

Town mates and Friends:

Please join us in celebration of our

place of the commission of the offense. Saan naman ako maglagay ng presohan dun (where will I put a prison there)?” he said.

He said if the terrorists are detained, the other militants would free them when the soldiers leave, “so we don’t need prisoners.”

Duterte assured the residents of Marawi that the government would not abandon them.

“We will help you, we will help rebuild (Marawi),” he said.

He added that his administration is focused on fighting corruption and helping the poor. n

Young Maranao kids spend some time to watch television as part of the psycho-social care provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development and other entities to help kids cope from the crisis. This photo was taken Sunday, July 9 at an evacuation center in the town of Balo-i, Lanao del Norte.

PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

508/ '*&45" TU '06/%*/( "//*7&34"3: 0' #"4$ JDV pushes for diplomacy amidst...

PAGE A1 t areas of West Africa, bedevilled by JO -"4 7&("4 /&7"%" more than 50 percent of global ISIS, Al Qaeda, and tribal wars.

De Venecia, a five-time SpeakWhen: Saturday, October 7, 2017 Where: Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, 400 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103 Prepaid Dinner Buffet ticket only: $65 per person Please make check payable to: Aludiya Lagmay-Ganzon 8119 Mary E Ellen Avenue, North Hollywood, California 91605 - or Priscilla Castaneto-Ruedas 6851 Dale Street Apartment # 16, Buena Park, California 90621

Nazario Perlas: Precy Castaneto- Ruedas: Lito Tambo: Ludy Lagmay-Ganzon:

nazario.perlas@yahoo.com pcruedas@yahoo.com lito.tambo@sbcglobal.net lganzon@gmail.com

Mila Tadina: mrtadina@yahoo.com Josie Dolor Etrata: wilpenn@yahoo.com Mary Ann Arichea–Caunan: macaunan@ha.ucla.edu *Discounted Room rates available at Gold Coast Hotel & Casino until September 3, 2017: Code: ABA2017

shipping pass; and the Paracel isles, claimed by both China and Vietnam over which they have already fought a war,and now occupied by China.

He said “joint exploration and development and conversion of the areas into a Zones of Peace, Friendship and Development are the only viable solution instead of constant tension, conflict and possible explosive war;” • The controversial Japaneseheld tiny isles in the Senkaku Straits or Daiyou to the Chinese in the East China Sea; he said the “only common-sensical solution is a joint-administration and sharing of the potential hydrocarbons in the vicinity;” • The conflict over Kashmir where substantial forces between India and Pakistan still face each other and over which they have already fought three bloody wars over 60 years, with potential for nuclear exchange; • The conflict, involving dangerous skirmishes in the long mountain borders between India and China, with large swathes of contested high ground; Sino-Indian wars were fought in 1962, 1965 and 1971; • The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh; • The protracted war in Afghanistan; • The unfinished Arab-Israeli conflict, which is still awaiting final settlement and the establishment of a Palestinian homeland under a two-state solution; • The continuing bloody wars in Syria, Iraq, Libya, Yemen, and

er of the Philippine House of Representatives, said the most violent threats are still those mounted by the ISIS-ISIL following the extremists’ early territorial victories and launching of a Caliphate in large areas of Iraq and Syria.

Although routed in battle in recent weeks in the conquered territories, ISIS has since deployed deadly terrorist groups in various capitals of Europe and the U.S., and smaller units have shifted their activities to Southeast Asia, Indonesia and Malaysia, and an attack on Marawi City in Muslim Mindanao where it plans to establish a province of the Caliphate.

Sucessful geo-political settlements De Venecia also listed some of the successful geo-political settlements that ended violent wars and brought about peace and development and which were settled by patient, pragmatic diplomacy: • End of the dangerous dispute that led to a violent war between Russia and China; hundreds of thousands of troops faced each other in the Argun and Amur Rivers in the eastern region of the U.S.S.R., north of Vladivostok in 1969, until the 1992 a Border Agreement was signed between the two Communist states; • Signing of the land border agreement of 1999 between Vietnam and China, although their dispute over the Paracels in the China Sea remains, following bloody fighting which dislodged

the Vietnamese garrison troops from the Paracel isles; • Oil in the Caspian Sea is shared by Iran, Russia, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijian and others because, “among them there is demarcation and practical mutual understanding and goodwill;” • The Norwegian-owned Ecofisk oil field in the North Sea which he visited in the 1970s when he was President of the Petroleum Association of the Philippines, flows its oil to Norway, to Teeside, England, and the natural gas to Bremen, Germany; • Giant Australia, a continent, and tiny East Timor share the hydrocarbons in the South Pacific, in the waters just below Darwin on the southeast side of Asia’s newest republic; • The 1989 Agreement between Malaysia and Thailand for a joint development of their disputed waters; • The Guinea-Bissau and Seneghal Agreement of 1993, which helped them develop their disputed areas.

“Might not the lessons of history again help us?” de Venecia told the party leaders gathered for the First Asia-Europe Political Forum.

3RD Silk Road Route De Venecia also said the ICAPP fully “supports China’s revival of the ancient overland Silk Road and the 21st century Maritime Silk Road, which have the “potential to change this century, hopefully…a change for the better.”

He reiterated his proposal for a “Third Silk Route” that would “complement and extend” China’s “Belt and Road” initiative, passing through the Philippines.

The third route, he said, would

u PAGE A4

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

Dateline USa

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULy 14-20, 2017

A

Romualdez reappointed as special envoy to US, Palace expects improved ties AFTER a year, the Philippines now has a regular ambassador to the United States.

The Palace was optimistic when it announced on Monday, July 10, that President Rodrigo Duterte reappointed Jose Manuel Romualdez as his special envoy to the U.S. “We are confident that the reappointment of Mr. Romualdez will usher in better PhilippinesU.S. relations and promote stronger cooperation between the two countries,” Palace spokesman Ernesto Abella said.

Romualdez, a newspaper columnist and media executive declined the reappointment as the envoy to Washington last year due to an emergency eye operation.

At present, Philippine embassy is supervised by Chargé d’Affaires Patrick Chuasoto.

The Philippines faced a rough relationship with the United States after then President Barack Obama denounced Duterte’s war on drugs.

In February, amidst the tension between the U.S. and Philippines, Duterte voiced out that he does “not feel like sending one [U.S. special envoy]. ” Following the statement of Duterte, former permanent rep-

Stargate/PeopleAsia publisher and CEO and Philippine Star columnist Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez (in photo) was reappointed by President Duterte as special envoy to the United States. The reappointment was confirmed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

Philstar.com photo

resentative to the United Nations Lauro Baja urged the president to do otherwise since not sending an ambassador is “not good diplomatic practice.”

Under the leadership of incumbent U.S. President Donald Trump, however, the two countries are seen on a much friendlier note.

In May, Trump commended Duterte’s drug crackdown saying the Philippine president did an “unbelievable job on the drug

problem.” Duterte thanked the U.S. president in return, further stating that “this is the scourge of my nation now and I have to do something to preserve the Filipino nation.”

Romualdez heads the Philippine offices of various multinational firms base in U.S. including FCB Manila and Weber Shandwick Philippines. He is also the president of the Manila Overseas Press Club and vice president of Manila Rotary Club. (AJPress)

Congressional Gold Medal presentation...

PAGE A1 t one of the highest civilian awards bestowed by the United States for persons or groups who have performed an achievement that have an impact on American history and culture. American citizenship is not a requirement. In particular, this award is a public expression of the U.S. Congress’ gratitude on behalf of the nation for the distinguished contributions of 260,000 Filipino soldiers and guerrillas during World War II in the Philippines.

Traditionally, the CGM is formally presented to the awardees by the Speaker of the House.

This year, the national celebration coincides with the formal award presentation of the medal to Filipino World War II veterans

by House Speaker Paul Ryan.

The presentation has not been scheduled, but could be held as early as October or November of this year.

At the award ceremony, slated to be held on Capitol Hill, surviving Filipino and American veterans or their next-of-kin will receive bronze replicas of the CGM and a framed copy of Public Law 114-265. Expected to attend are Congressional sponsors, Philippine Government officials, Presidential Cabinet members, high ranking general officers from the US Army, US Marine Corps, US Navy, US Air Force, US Coast Guard, veterans advocates, community leaders and supporters and other dignitaries.

The Filipino Veterans Rec-

ognition and Education Project no veterans residing in the Phil(FilVetREP), the proponent of ippines to receive their bronze the CGM legislation and the of- replicas in Manila. It is anticificial national point of contact u PAGE A4 for all CGM activities, is working closely with the U.S. Mint and offices of Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI) to accelerate completion of the CGM’s minting and production of at least 500 bronze replicas.

FilVetREP is led by Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (U.S.A. Ret.) and his executive team composed of Marie Blanco, Erick Soriano, Jon Melegrito and Ben de Guzman.

National celebration plans “We secured the Congressional Gold Medal to honor our veterans and demonstrate our deepest gratitude for their supreme sacrifice,” said FilVetREP Chairman Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret). “We will ensure that our national celebration of this historic achievement is one that treats our veterans with the utmost dignity and respect. We are, therefore, calling on all our supporters to make this important event happen. It’s for our veterans and they deserve to have a memorable event.”

Taguba also notes that not all recipients of the medal may not be able to come to Washington due to their age and physical condition. Regional award ceremonies are being considered in the West Coast, Midwest and the South to accommodate veterans who are not able to travel to Washington.

There are also plans for Filipi-

Manny Pacquiao lands a right hand to Jeff Horn’s jaw during their WBO welterweight title fight at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia last July 2.

Philstar.com photo by Wendell Rupert Alinea

Pacquiao on WBO ruling...

PAGE A1 t match held at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia.

“Let the people judge for themselves. People saw what happened,” Pacquiao added.

In a statement on Monday, July 10, the WBO announced the results of its independent review of the match, saying that three of its five independent judges awarded the victory to Horn, one to Pacquiao, and the remaining one scored a draw.

Based on its findings, the WBO said Pacquiao won the 3rd, the 8th and 9th by 100 percent; the 5th round by 80 percent; and the 11th round by 60 percent.

Horn, on the other hand, won the 1st, 6th and 12th rounds by 100 percent; the 2nd, 4th, and 7th rounds by 80 percent; and 10th round by 60 percent.

“From the results, it can be established that Pacquiao won five rounds while Horn won seven rounds. Based on this analysis, Jeff Horn was the winner of the bout,” the WBO concluded.

The bout’s original scores were 117-111, 115-113, 115-113, all in

favor of Horn.

The WBO earlier clarified that it cannot reverse the original match result, and that the rescoring of the fight was only a response to the GAB’s request with the purpose of giving fans “certainty of who was the winner of the fight.”

While GAB thanked the WBO for swiftly responding to its review request, it criticized referee Mark Nelson for supposedly not doing a proper job.

“We are grateful that WBO acted promptly on our request but no matter what review they do, it will be hard to change the result as the referee didn’t call it close,” GAB chairman Abraham Mitra said.

“The judges’ scores would have greatly changed if the refs did their job properly. He didn’t give Manny the respect and fair protection that is due to a people’s champ,” Mitra added.

With a rematch clause in the fight contract, both Pacquiao and Horn said they are open to the idea of settling the issue inside the ring. n

HELP FOR ORMOC. Ormoc City Mayor Richard Gomez (second from left) and wife Leyte Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez (third from left) discuss relief operations with former Tacloban City representative Martin Romualdez (left) and former senator Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (right). Marcos visited Ormoc City to hand over relief goods.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Jaime Pilapil

Study: Tagalog is 2nd most...

known as Morro Bay, California.

This made the Filipinos the first PAGE A1 t Listed below are the most spo- Asians on U.S. soil, according to Census Bureau’s 2015 American ken languages in the 10 largest a publication by American Psychological Association, citing an Consumer Survey in identifying states by population: excerpt from the book “Filipinos: • California — Tagalog the most commonly spoken lanForgotten Asian Americans” by • Texas — Vietnamese guage in each state.

F. Cordova, published in 1983.

• Florida — French Creole The survey did not include To date, 3.4 million Filipinos • New York — Chinese Spanish, which is the top most are estimated to be living in the • Illinois — Polish common language spoken lanU.S., making them the second • Pennsylvania — Chinese guage in almost all of the states largest Asian group in America.

• Ohio — German in the U.S. Back in the Philippines, a • Georgia — Korean Aside from California, Tagalog quarter of the Filipino popula• North Carolina — French is also the most commonly spotion speaks Tagalog as their first • Michigan — Arabic ken foreign language after SpanFilipinos have one of the lon- language. The country has eight ish in Nevada and Washington.

Other widely spoken languag- gest histories of immigration to major dialects which include es include Chinese, Vietnamese, the United States, dating back to Bikol, Cebuano, Hiligaynon as early as 1587 when Filipino (Ilonggo), Ilocano, KapampanGerman and French.

The cultural mix is different in slaves alighted Spanish galleon gan, Pangasinan, Tagalog, and each state due to several factors. ships and landed in what is now Waray. (AJPress)

A

july 14-20, 2017 • NORCAl ASIAN jOuRNAl

Dateline USa

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

Q&A: UC president bullish on California’s future, and the next generation

by AnnA

ChAllet New America Media

WhaT inspires you most about UC students?

I continue to be impressed by the number of first-generation students who are getting their degrees – their families are there at commencement and it’s such a point of pride.

I always think, ‘Where did those brains come from? They’re a lot smarter than I am!’ In every field, from medicine to engineering to agriculture to the arts and humanities, they’re doing amazing research. I recently hosted a competition for graduate students called the Grad Slam. Each finalist gives a 3-minute elevator pitch on their research for a panel of judges. Our students are working on everything from a new material made of shrimp shells to a new way to make mental health care more accessible for students.

What is your top issue at the UC right now?

My top issue is always around funding. Do we have enough funding to do what we need to do? Will Sacramento support us? How do we keep tuition as low as possible?

How do we account for the cost of attendance?

We have a working group now in the UC Regents looking at the total cost of attendance, and one of the things they’re looking at is whether we calculate financial aid the right way. I know they’re particularly looking at middle-income students. With the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan, students from families making less than $80,000 a year pay no tuition or fees. That’s been a terrific help to low-income students, but we have to look at our middle-income students too.

Almost half our students graduate with zero debt. We want to con-

University of California Pres. Janet Napolitano

tinue to fight to stay that way.

What’s happening with the UC’s immigrant students, given the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigrants?

We’re really trying to do all we can within the context of an unfriendly national environment to show that they’re part of the university community. Immediately after the election we reached out to our undocumented student community. We reiterated that they’re important members of the university community. We’ve let them know that university police will not be surrogates for ICE. We won’t be turning over records voluntarily. We have an undocumented student advisory council and we fund an undocumented student legal services center where we provide free legal services to undocumented students.

What is the UC doing to addresses global issues?

We set a goal of being carbon neutral by 2025. We purchased the largest solar farm of any university in the country. We’re doing research on alternative forms of energy and scalable solutions that we can export. We’re working now to form a coalition of higher education institutions to support the Paris Accords. Even though President Trump has withdrawn the United States, it doesn’t preclude states or universities from

adhering to the goals of the agreement.

The Global Food Initiative is another area where we’ve united the campuses. The goal is looking at how we can set the world on the pathway to a nutritious, sustainable food future. That involves funding for food insecurity among our own students, but expands all the way to what we can do internationally. how do you see education changing around major shifts in labor, like the increasing number of jobs that will become automated?

Education constantly changes.

Regarding the growth in robotics and in artificial intelligence, you have to ask the question: What are humans going to do? Historically, whenever there’s been a major shift in the means of production, like with the Industrial Revolution, human creativity has come into play and the economy grows in other places. There may not be the same kinds of hard manufacturing jobs, but there will be a continued emphasis on creativity. Things will happen that we can’t even conceive of right now.

When you talk to students and families, what are they most hopeful about?

In California, the economy overall makes people optimistic. It’s a state that’s growing economically, where our students when they graduate can get good jobs.

There’s a difference being in California. There’s a sense of the future. California continues to move forward. It’s not mired in the past.

The UC’s business is educating the next generation and pushing forward the boundaries of knowledge. It’s a strong and vital place and for me it’s a privilege to be here. n

DONATION TO PNP. Philippine National Police (PNP) Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario (middle) receives from Ms. Teresita AngSee, vice chairperson of Philippine National Police Foundation Incorporated (PNPFI); and Mr. Domingo Yap, president of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), the donated equipment worth more than P1.3 million during the flag raising ceremony at Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday, July 10.

Photo courtesy of PNP

Gov. Brown signs bill clarifying financial disclosures in family law are not confidential Legally-required financial disclosures are admissible even if prepared in mediation

SACRAMENTO – State Senator Bob Wieckowski’s bill clarifying that current mediation confidentiality statutes do not apply to legally-required financial disclosures in family law cases was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown. The bill codifies an appellate court ruling from 2014.

“Senate Bill 217 increases the transparency between divorcing spouses to ensure they have access to full and accurate information upon which to base an equitable division of assets even if they pursue resolution through mediation proceedings,” said Wieckowski, a member of the Senate Judiciary Com-

mittee. “This bill clarifies that financial documents produced for marital dissolution cases in mediation are not subject to confidentiality requirements.”

The 2nd District Court of Appeal ruled in 2014’s Lappe v.

Superior Court that the confidentiality statues do not apply to statutorily-mandated disclosures that must be made regardless of whether the parties participate in mediation. The court found that because the Family Code mandates the assets and liabilities declarations, their introduction in mediation does not shield them from discovery.

The California Supreme Court

denied review of the Lappe case, allowing the decision to stand. Wieckowski authored the bill because the Lappe case is not binding on other appellate courts, raising the possibility that a contrary decision from another district could cause more confusion.

SB 217 was supported by the Conference of California Bar Associations, the California Dispute Resolution Council and the California Association of Certified Family Law Specialists.

Senator Wieckowski represents the 10th District, which includes southern Alameda County and parts of Santa Clara County. n

the Heritage Foundation in Washington D.C. and in the United Nations University in Barcelona, Spain, he told the Asia-Europe political leaders of the need for “bringing together the best elements of capitalism and socialism in a new applied art of governance, based on what works for a particular society over a specific historical period considering the persistent and incredibly huge gaps between the rich and poor in our time.”

He told leaders of the organizations of political parties in Asia and Europe: “There will be a great need for transnational, transcultural groupings like ours—since the problems that face us more and more transcend national, regional and even hemispheric boundaries.

“We cannot turn away from the pursuit of peace because the alternative, conflict and war, would be immeasurably costly and make all of us losers.

“We must all then strive to-

gether to achieve the multicultural understanding, which is the only basis for the long-term security of our Asian region, Europe, and the global community.

“For understanding among the great civilizations is the only basis for global peace that will endure.

“The U. S. and Europe provided the world a historic, great and inspiring lesson on how to lift a destroyed continent from the ashes of war.

“In Asia, the U. S., Japan and 10-nation ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand, and the rise of China led an incredibly great period of economic recovery and modernization after World War II, the Korean War and the Indo-China wars.”

He concluded: “We commend these great lessons and great moments in history to say that never again should we allow geo-political conflict, nationalist passions and false ideologies, and inordinate great power ambitions to once again threaten Asia, Europe and the other countries of the world.” n

BI set to deport American mom accused of abducting her 2 kids JDV pushes for diplomacy amidst...

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday, July 11 said it is already preparing the deportation of an American national wanted in the U.S. for kidnapping her two children and escaping with them to the Philippines.

Ana Centillas Lorrigan, 57, was arrested on Friday, July 7 in Barangay Calapacuan, Subic, Zambales by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU). She is carrying an expired U.S. passport.

“Lorrigan left her children with her sister,” BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said in a statement.

“She has become undocumented and as a consequence she lost her privilege to stay here.”

BI Spokesperson Ma. Antonette Mangrobang said in a statement that Lorrigan and her two children, a boy and a girl, lived in the Philippines since arriving in the country last April 15, 2011.

“The BI board of commissioners is expected to issue a summary deportation order against Lorrigan for posing risk to public safety and security and being a fugitive from justice,” Mangrobang said.

The U.S. Embassy in Manila

earlier informed the BI that Lorrigan had been wanted in trial for international parental kidnapping before a local district court in southern California.

Lorrigan may be sentenced to a three-year maximum jail term for fleeing the U.S. with her children, as stated in the U.S. International Parental Kidnapping Crime Act enacted in 1993.

“She [will be] placed in our immigration blacklist to prevent her from returning to the Philippines,” Mangrobang said. (Theodore Jason Patrick K. Ortiz/Inquirer.net)

PAGE A2 t extend from southern China’s Fujian province, cross to the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and Timor Leste and across the South Pacific to Australia, New Zealand and into Chile, Brazil, Argentina, the Carribean and into Mexico and the US. He described this as a “new circumnavigation in this age of globalization,” following the legendary overland Silk Route by horse and camel caravans, and President Xi Jinping’s 21st Century Maritime Silk Route.

Russian initiative De Venecia also noted Russia’s new initiative to create the Eurasian Economic Union among Russia and the Central Asian states along the Silk Route.

He said another striking recent development was China’s launching of the long-distance railway freight train from China to Europe and back, the extension of the Silk Route across the Red Sea to Africa.

Recalling his speeches before

Congressional Gold Medal presentation...

PAGE A3 t pated that this will be handled by the Philippine Veterans Administration Office (PVAO) and Philippine Office of National Defense.

National registry Bronze replicas will be awarded only to surviving veterans or their next-of-kin whose eligibility for CGM has been vetted and whose names are included in FilVetREP’s national veterans registry.

“It is essential that veterans and their families register as soon as possible to make sure they are included in the award ceremony,” Taguba adds.

Applications and instructions for submission may be downloaded from FilVetREP’s website, www.filvetrep.org. Each of the FILVETREP regional directors are responsible for contacting the veterans and families to help them register. Bronze replicas are not funded by the U.S. government, but rather by donations from the public. Donations to support FilVetREP’s CGM activities are accepted through the FilVetREP website.

CGM Design and Approval Process. In the past several months, FilVetREP has been meeting with the U.S. Mint’s Office of Design Management in providing significant input and recommendations to the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) and the Commission on Fine Arts (CFA).

The U.S. Mint is the nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, commemorative coins and congressional gold medals, and is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the nation to conduct its trade and commerce.

CCAC is an advisory committee established in 2003 by Congress under Public Law 108-15 to advise the Secretary of the Treasury on the themes and designs of all U.S. coins and med-

als; CFA is an independent federal agency charged with giving expert advice on matters of design and aesthetics, as they affect the federal interest and preserve the dignity of the nation’s capital.

As Chairman of FilVetREP, Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (U.S. Army Ret) was designated as the official liaison to the U.S. Mint by Sen. Mazie Hirono and U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, co-sponsors of the CGM legislation.

On January 17, FilVetREP held its initial meeting with the U.S. Mint’s Office of Design Management. The team include FilVetREP executive officers Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba, Marie Blanco, Ben de Guzman, Jon Melegrito and Erick Soriano, legal counsel.

At this meeting, the FilVetREP team presented possible themes, text, photos and graphics that would be useful to the assigned artists and illustrators.

On February 15, FilVetREP met with the CCAC. The presentation included screening of the documentary, “Duty to Country,” and a discussion of all the artistic, political and historical themes and elements that would inform the design process.

A kick-off meeting with the six U.S. Mint artists assigned to the project was held on March 22. A month later, the artists completed 43 candidate designs based on the instructions provided by the CCAC. FilVetREP then reviewed each obverse (front) and reverse (back) designs for historical/technical accuracy and appropriateness. After several rounds of feedback and suggested modifications, the team narrowed down its selection to seven of the front and three of the back.

On May 22, a meeting with the U.S. Mint led to the selection of the top three designs, which were presented to the CFA on June 15. The CFA agreed with

FilVetREP’s design preferences and modifications.

On June 21, the 11-member CCAC approved the recommendations of FilVetREP for the CGM design. The U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, who has the final approval, is expected to concur and give the U.S. Mint the official go ahead to have the medal minted this summer.

The minting process, which typically takes about three months, basically involves translating a 14-page legislation (i.e., Public Law 114-265) into a graphic design engraved on a 3inch medal minted in solid gold.

The CGM legislation provides that the Smithsonian Institution will be the repository for the CGM where it will be available for display and research. The CGM legislation also requires the Smithsonian Institution to make the CGM available for display elsewhere. Currently, the plan is for the CGM to be permanently housed at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History or another national museum of similar repute.

Digital Exhibition and Education Program. The next phase of the CGM project is to create a digital exhibition and education program that will be accessible to public schools and the public. It will include a complete history of the Filipino veterans’ role in World War II, timelines, testimonies, personal stories, photographs, videos and other artifacts.

“This American story of Filipino soldiers fighting under the U.S. flag in Bataan, Corregidor and other places, and helping liberate a U.S. sovereign territory only to be denied the benefits promised them, must be told widely and preserved for posterity for generations to come,” Taguba said.

“It is a story we all should be proud of.” (Jon Melegrito)

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

Dateline PhiliPPines

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULy 14-20, 2017

A

House Speaker’s plans for ‘dissolution of marriage’ bill met with criticisms HOUSE Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez has yet to file a bill for dissolution of marriage but his planned proposal was already met with criticisms.

Earlier, Alvarez said one of his advocacies in the upcoming second regular session of the 17th Congress, which will open in July 24, would include the filing of bill for dissolution of marriage.

In an interview with ABSCBN, Alvarez explained that in the planned bill, “both parties can agree and jointly petition the court for the dissolution of the marriage.”

“Hindi ito divorce, dissolution of marriage ito. Halimbawa, ‘di tayo magkasundo, ‘di na tayo masaya sa isa’t isa (This is not a divorce but a dissolution of marriage. For example, if we are can no longer reconcile, if we’re no longer happy with each other), we can go to court and petition jointly for the dissolution of our marriage,” Alvarez explained.

Both them could make an agreement on various issues such as custody of children and division of properties, he said.

But if one of the spouses disagreed for a dissolution, Alvarez noted the other party could still file a petition before the court on the ground of “unhappiness.”

However, for some sectors within the predominantly Catholic Philippines, the House speaker’s proposal doesn’t sit well.

In a statement, Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza said that the House speaker’s planned bill “totally removes” the “genuine essence of marriage.”

“This destroys the sanctity, respect and value of the family.

I don’t know of any other country in the world that has adopted this kind of law which makes it easy to dissolve a marriage upon agreement,” Atienza remarked.

He further claimed that such bill “destroys the sanctity, respect and value of the family.”

“I hope and pray that Speaker Alvarez doesn’t pursue this line of thinking. This would not strengthen marriage, this would destroy marriage. For Catholics, this is a contract of union before man and before God under the Sacrament of Marriage. I still hope that he was only joking when he said his ideas,” Atienza added.

Gabriela Party-list Rep. Emmi de Jesus also cried foul over the proposal for dissolution of marriage, pointing out that the term “unhappy” used in the bill is “very subjective.” “’Pag tiningnan natin [ang] dissolution of marriage at ginamit ang salitang ‘unhappy,’ subjective, very subjective. Mahalaga para sa amin, kaya nga sabi namin educational sana ang approach para ipakita ano ba batayan bakit nawawasak. (The term ‘unhappy’ is very subjective. An educational approach is very important to show why a re-

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez

lationship breaks),” de Jesus told ABS-CBN. Archbishop Oscar Cruz, Judicial Vicar of the National Appellate Matrimonial Tribunal of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), also expressed dissent against the bill.

“Bakit magpapakasal kung ganun lang, ‘pag ‘di magkasundo, nag-aaway, let’s file for divorce (Why would you marry and file a divorce after a disagreement)?

Just stick together, the next day, part ways,” Cruz said.

He then stressed that children are the first victims of failed marriages.

The Philippines is the only nation in the world that does not allow divorce (though Muslims can), as well as the Vatican City, an ecclesiastical sovereign citystate. In these two countries, laws only allow annulment of marriages. However, filing for annulment is a long and expensive process in the Philippines.

(Dana Sioson/AJPress)

Analyst: China diverting int’l pressure, continues construction of military facilities

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

CHINA seems to be “diverting international pressure” from the disputed South China Sea by engaging in talks with the Philippines and other Southeast Asian nations, according to CSIS Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI) director Gregory Poling.

In an interview with Philstar, Poling said China appears to keep on engaging in dialogues with other neighboring countries while continuing its construc-

tion of military facilities on the so-called “Big Three” Philippine-claimed reefs in the Spratly Islands.

Weeks ago, the Washington-based think tank released satellite photos showing China wrapping up its construction of infrastructures on Fiery Cross Reef (Kagitingan), Mischief Reef (Panganiban) and Subi Reef (Zamora).

This was amid Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s initiative to renew Manila’s bilateral relationship with China that was

apparently strained due to territorial disputes.

“This suggests that Beijing wants to keep Manila and the other Southeast Asian governments talking, diverting international pressure, while it finishes its power projection capabilities without interference,” Poling said.

He pointed out that China’s actions only show that it is bent on establishing de facto control over areas it claimed to be within its so-called “nine-dash line” terriPAGE A7

LET THERE BE PEACE. These elderly evacuees try to live each day as normal as they can despite the challenges they face being away from the comforts of their homes and the uncertainty of when they can finally go back to their respective dwellings in Marawi City. One of the women flashes the peace sign as she cuts wood with a bolo at an evacuation center in the town of Balo-i, Lanao del Norte.

PNA photo by Oliver Marquez

Congress might discuss martial law extension on Duterte’s SONA

by Dana

SioSon AJPress

THE lower house in Congress is likely to discuss the possible extension of martial law on the day Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his second State of the Nation Address (SONA), a member of the independent minority bloc in the House of Representatives said on Sunday, July 9.

In a radio interview, Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat Jr. said Congress, which is currently in recess, might tackle the possible martial law extension on July 24 — its first day of the second regular session.

“Kung gusto nilang i-extend, maaaring hingin ng Pangulo na magkaroon ng extension.

Then kung ang pasya ay sige, gawin na natin ‘yong joint session… then tamang-tama kasi sa Sona, sa July 24 ay meron kaming joint session. (If they want to extend it, the president may ask for an extension.

Then, if they all agree, we’ll have a joint session… it’s an opportune because we’ll have

a joint session on July 24),” Baguilat told Super Radyo dzBB. On May 23, Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law for 60 days after the Islamic State (IS)-inspired Maute group attacked Marawi City in Lanao del Sur. The 1987 Constitution states that “upon the initiative of the President, the Congress may, in the same manner, extend such proclamation or suspension for a period to be determined by the Congress, if the invasion or rebellion shall persist and public safety requires it.”

Duterte repeatedly said he’ll seek the extension of his martial law proclamation depending on the advice of the military and security officials. His Mindanao martial law declaration, under Proclamation 216, will mark its 60th day on July 22.

According to Baguilat, if lawmakers wanted a continuous implementation of martial law, the Congress should hold

a special joint session before July 24.

“May puwang kasi.... But ‘yun nga, hindi pa kami in session e, naka-recess. So technically may isang araw. Kung balak nga na i-extend sa July 24, may isang araw na wala nang bisa ‘yung martial law (There’s a one day gap since we’re currently in recess. If they plan to extend it on July 24, martial law would not be in effect for one day),” he said.

“Otherwise, it could be possible na sa SONA na lang nila ihain ito (they’d present it during the SONA),” he added.

In a separate statement, Kabayan Rep. Harry Roque said Duterte might as well use the SONA as an opportunity to seek martial law extension, pointing out that there is no provision in the Constitution that prohibits him to do so.

Should the president wanted to “take advantage of the SONA in joint session,” Roque said Duterte must “submit a report possibly before the 24th” of July. n

A

july 14-20, 2017 • NORCAl ASIAN jOuRNAl

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

OpiniOn

Critical numbers

Features

BASED on projections by the Commission on Population (POPCOM) and data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Philippine population will continue to increase in 2017 and is projected to reach 105,758,850 by December 31, 2017.

As of Sunday, July 9, the current Philippine population is 103,842,929 or 1.38 percent of the world’s total population, based on the latest United Nations estimates.

The nation’s population has grown over two percent each year since 2000. A mere 50 years ago, the country’s population stood at 27.1 million.

Other population trends being tracked by POPCOM for 2017 are the numbers of schoolchildren, which is expected to rise to 31.5 million, the labor force of 66.7 million and the segment over 65 years old at 5.2 million.

While every life is a cause of celebration, the world recognizes the need to address the urgency and importance of population issues. This is why the world observes July 11 as the World Population Day to enhance awareness of population issues, including their relation to the environment and development.

Humankind didn’t hit the 1 billionth threshold until the 19th century. Today, human inhabitants have since been growing by exponential leaps.

The world’s population now stands at 7.5 billion.

Reaching this number is as much a milestone in human history as it is a worldwide cause for deep

concern.

The world is expected to grow another 2.4 billion and reach almost 10 billion in 2050. That’s the same as adding nearly two more Chinas or eight times more U.S. residents to this already crowded planet.

In the Philippines, at least three babies are born every minute, making the country’s population growth a daunting challenge. Stabilizing these numbers, so that they don’t outstrip economic growth, is an even more challenging task.

Although it is anathema to the Church and prolife advocates, population control is a practical option right now. Controlling population growth may not be the ultimate solution to such survival, but it renders a chance for a better future.

A ballooning population interlinks a myriad of issues. But its control equates a matter of survival of the human race. Controlling the population may not be the ultimate solution to such survival, but it renders a chance for a better future.

The government needs to vigorously impleWithout urgent efforts to stabilize and reduce population growth, nature might finally provide ment its population policies, which are responalternative solutions to the problem with famine, sible parenthood and the advocacy for natural family planning. There are a number of other disease and war.

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

worthwhile methods people can and should employ to reduce fertility rates. Some have proven track records, while others, are eminently sensible. (AJPress)

Trump Jr. releases detailed emails that give more smoke to the Russian-Trump campaign collusion THE TRUMP CAMPAIGN has, in many The Fil-Am times, failed to disPerspective close, mislead and lied about its alleged communications and ties with the United States’ adversary, Russia, and Gel SantoS-ReloS has even called any reports about it “fake news”, and the investigation as a “witch hunt”.

It contends that the Democrats and the fake news media had been making these accusations against Trump because they could not accept the fact that Clinton lost and Trump won.

THIS is NOT fake news, kababayans. Ask President Donald J. Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., who has released emails and a statement regarding his meeting with a Kremlin-related Russian attorney who offered to give the Trump campaign some incriminating information about Hillary Clinton from the Russian government to damage her

JUST as the debate on the September 21, 1972 proclamation of martial law and suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus throughout the Philippines continues long after Ferdinand Marcos fell from power in 1986, died in Hawaii in 1989 and was finally interred amid noisy protests at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on November 18, 2016, the debate on President Rodrigo Duterte’s Proclamation 216 of May 23, 2017, declaring martial law and suspending the privilege of the writ for not more than 60 days in the whole of Mindanao, is bound to continue for a very long time even after the strongman is gone.

The vote of 11 justices in favor of the entire proclamation, three in favor of a more limited geographical coverage, and one saying the proclamation is unconstitutional, has clearly provoked a spirited response from academics and constitutional scholars, despite the President’s threat of arrest against those who would speak against the proclamation. The concurring and dissenting opinions of Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio and Associate Justice Benjamin Caguioa as well as the lone dissenting opinion of Associate Justice Marvic Leonen, who has been showered with all sorts of ad hominems in the press and social media by highly motivated

ency.”

Transparency? After denials and multiple stories to explain away the news broken by the New York Times last weekend, Trump Jr. finally released on Tuesday morning the emails, but only after being told that the Times was about to publish the content of emails setting up a meeting with a Kremlin-connected lawyer.

As the Times reported, the emails were exchanged in June 2016 between Donald Trump Jr. and Rob Goldstone, a British-born former tabloid reporter and entertainment publicist. Mr. Goldstone told Trump Jr. that he was writing on be-

half of a mutual friend, one of Russia’s biggest pop music stars, Emin Agalarov.

Quoting the New York Times: On Jun 3, 2016, at 10:36 AM, Rob Goldstone wrote: Good morning Emin just called and asked me to contact you with something very interesting.

The Crown prosecutor of Russia met with his father Aras this morning and in their meeting offered to provide the Trump campaign with some official documents and information that would incriminate Hillary and her dealings with Russia and would be very useful to your father.

This is obviously very high level and sensitive information but is part of Russia and its government’s support for Mr. Trump - helped along by Aras and Emin.

What do you think is the best way to handle this information and would you be able to speak to Emin about

it directly?

I can also send this info to your father via Rhona, but it is ultra sensitive so wanted to send to you first.

Best Rob Goldstone According to the New York Times, Trump Jr. responded in minutes saying, “If it’s what you say I love it especially later in the summer.”

After more email exchanges setting up the meeting, Trump Jr. met with the Russian lawyer on June 9 at younger Trump’s office on the 25th floor of Trump Tower, which the Times reported to be “just one level below the office of the future president”.

Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and the Trump Campaign chairman Paul Manafort were in the meeting, and had received forwarded emails about the planned meeting by Trump Jr. Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who heads the independent investigation probing the alleged collusion of

the Trump campaign with Russia to interfere in the presidential election, will look into these emails and meetings.

Mueller will weigh in on these in relation to the many other testimonies, meetings, ties, and other evidences to determine the culpability of the Trump campaign in the allegations of collusion with Russia to attack the democratic processes and institutions in the United States just so Trump would win as president.

He will also look into a possible tit for tat between Trump and Russia, considering how such ties have affected Trump’s policies when it comes to Russia.. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos

Martial law for next 5 years, or Congress without Alvarez?

Opinion

FRanciSco tatad

campaign and help Trump win the 2016 U.S. presidential election.

Trump released a brief statement saying, “my son is a highquality person and I applaud his transpar-

responders, have triggered as much attention as Associate Justice Mariano del Castillo’s 82page ponencia.

The Court ruling dissected It seems safe to assume that all our lawyers, law professors, law students and law colleges are trying to dissect the controversial texts from our 15 magistrates. And that, we could look to advancing our knowledge of the Constitution and the law—and the existing political order—not so much through the majority ruling of the high court as through the dissenting opinions of some of our justices. A reputable lawyer-friend of mine tells me that although he could not agree with Leonen’s holding that the proclamation has no factual basis and is therefore null and void, he learned so much from the justice’s 92-page dissent.

Leonen had served as a peace negotiator in Mindanao before B. S. Aquino 3rd appointed him to the court, and he provides interesting cultural insights in support of his thesis that martial law is not the correct response to the Maute problem.

That indeed provides a useful political insight, except that the question before the court is not whether martial law is the correct response to the problem, but whether Proclamation 216 is constitutional or not.

This question has several parts. If one part is constitutional, but the others are not, can the whole thing be declared constitutional? This is the problem which remains unresolved as far as many who are now parsing the documents are concerned.

Let us now break it down into its proper parts. First, is it constitutional for the President and Commander in Chief to declare martial law and suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in response to the Maute terror attack on Marawi City on May 23, 2017? The court majority says it is, and a great many others agree, this writer included. On the court, only Leonen says no.

Is it constitutional for Proclamation 216 to cover not only Marawi and the adjacent areas where the Mautes have a presence or influence, but the whole of Mindanao, most of which remains unaffected by the Maute strike? CJ Sereno, Carpio, Caguioa—and many others outside the Court say no. A careful reading of the Constitution tends to support this position rather than that of the court majority.

But assuming the inclusion of the whole of Mindanao is indeed constitutional, is the proclamation constitutionally valid and enforceable even when it lacks the constitutionally mandated approval by a majority vote of all the members of the two Houses meeting in joint session to listen to the President’s oral or written report?

Regrettably, the court seems to believe that two separate resolutions from the Senate and the House of Representatives, passed to deliberately supplant a joint action by the two Houses, but unsupported by an accurate record of the votes that approved such resolutions, are equivalent to, and interchangeable with, a declaration by a majority of all

the members of a joint session of Congress.

This, to me, is a fatal defect.

Dean Sta. Maria’s paper An article written by Dean Mel Sta. Maria of the Far Eastern University Institute of Law, who is also a professor at the Ateneo College of Law, appears to have gained the serious attention and respect of lawyers and laymen alike for its clarity and cogency of thought. Sta. Maria does not hesitate to point out the court’s fallacious reasoning and poor grasp of the meaning of words.

He frontally refutes key arguments in the court’s ruling, such as these: “After all, the Court’s review is confined to the sufficiency, not the accuracy, of the information at hand, during the declaration (of martial law) or suspension (of the writ of habeas corpus…

“Clearly, the Constitution grants to the President the discretion to determine the territorial coverage of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus. He may put the entire Philippines or only a part thereof under martial law…

“Thus, the Constitution imposed a limitation on the period of application, which is sixty days, unless sooner modified, revoked or extended, but not on the territorial scope or area of coverage; it merely stated, ‘the Philippines or any part thereof,’ depending on the assessment of the President…

“The Court can act only within the confines of its power. For the Court to overreach is to infringe upon another’s territory. Clear-

ly, the power to determine the scope of territorial application belongs to the President. The Court cannot indulge in judicial legislation without violating the principle of separation of powers, and, hence, undermining the foundation of our republican system.”

No sufficiency without accuracy On the issue of sufficiency and accuracy of facts, Sta. Maria calls the court’s position a “dangerously sweeping statement.” He elaborates. “Dichotomizing ‘sufficiency’ and ‘accuracy’ is a grievous error. These two are inseparable. Necessarily, accuracy of data is a condition precedent to arrive at authentic ‘sufficiency.’ Otherwise the so-called ‘sufficiency’ may be faked, just like fake news. To be sure, the standard required is ‘sufficiency of factual basis,’ not merely the ‘information at hand.’ ‘Factual basis’ imperatively connotes truthfulness of the events. ‘Alternative facts’ have no place in appreciating the gravity of the circumstances or the purpose of declaring martial law,” he says.

As for the court’s statement that although the Constitution limits the power of the President to declare martial law for a period not exceeding 60 days, it does not limit the geographical area where he may proclaim it, we do not need a lawyer, much less a distinguished dean of the college of law, to point out how absurd it is. Any layman will do.

The issue must be understood within the full context of the provision and the crisis it is sup-

posed to address.

Since the President may declare martial law only in case of invasion or rebellion and when the public safety requires it, he cannot declare martial law where there is no actual invasion or rebellion and the public safety does not require it, or when there is but an “imminent danger thereof.”

To do so would constitute an “overreach.” For the court to say the President may declare martial law wherever he wants to, even if no invasion or rebellion exists and the public safety does not require it, would be a far graver overreach. For the court to restrain the President, as it should have, from proclaiming martial law in all of Mindanao could never be considered an overreach, says our law dean.

“This is not even a case of ‘judicial legislation.’ This is a case of check and balance, which is the true ‘foundation of (the) republican system’,” he writes.

Hopefully, the court majority will have the opportunity to revisit these issues when they hear the motion for reconsideration, which the original petitioners are set to file before the legally imposed court deadline. And hopefully, the court would be ready for the new challenge that would confront it after the 60day martial law period expires, and the President either fails or refuses to recognize that it has ended automatically and compulsorily, without his having to lift it, according to the Constitution and the text of Proclamation 216 itself.

PAGE A7

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

ROGER LAGMAY ORIEL Publisher & Chairman of the Board CORA MACABAGDAL-ORIEL President Main Office: 1210 S. Brand Blvd Glendale, CA 91204 Tels: (818) 502-0651 • (213) 250-9797 Fax: (818) 502-0858 e-mail: info@asianjournalinc.com http://www.asianjournal.com Northern California: 1799 Old Bayshore Hwy, Suite 136 Burlingame, CA 94010 Tel.: (650) 689-5160 • Fax: (650) 239-9253 las Vegas Sales Office: 2770 S. Maryland Pkwy., Suite 200 las Vegas, NV 89109 Tel.: (702) 792-6678 • Fax: (702) 792-6879

Manila Office: 2/F D&E Fort Palm Springs Cond.

30th St., Cor. 1st Ave., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig Tel.: (632) 856-4921 • 856-0397 Fax: (632) 856-1661 New york Office: 133-30 32nd Ave., Flushing, Ny 11354 Tel.: (212) 655-5426 • Fax (818) 502-0858 New jersey Office: 2500 Plaza 5, Harborside Financial Center, jersey City, Nj 07311 Tel: (212)655-5426 • Fax: (818)502-0858

ELIZABETH HILARIO SISON Chief Financial Officer JOSEPH PERALTA Vice President & General Manager Northern California Asian Journal MOMAR G. VISAYA Executive Editor MALOU LIWANAG-BLEDSOE Editor-in-Chief Northern California Asian Journal GERMAN P. PALABYAB Advertising and Business Development Director

ADVERTISING AND ADVERTORIAl POlICIES Asian journal Publitions, Inc. (“AjPI”) reserves the right to refuse to publish, in its sole and absolute discretion, any advertising and advertorial material submitted for publition by client. (“Client’s Material”) Submission of an advertisement or advertorial to an AjPI sales representative does not constitute a commitment by AjPI to publish a Client’s Material. AjPI has the option to correctly classify any Client’s Material and to delete objectionable words or phrases.

Client represents and warrants that a Client’s Material does not and will not contain any language or material which is libelous, slanderous or defamatory or invades any rights of privacy or publicity; does not and will not violate or infringe upon, or give rise to any adverse claim with respect to any common law or other right whatsoever (including, without limitation, any copyright, trademark, service mark or contract right) of any person or entity, or violate any other applible law; and is not the subject of any litigation or claim that might give rise to any litigation.

Publition of a Client’s Material does not constitute an agreement to continue publition.

Client agrees and covenants to indemnify AjPI and its officers against any and all loss, liability, damage, expenses, cost, charges, claims, actions, uses of action, recoveries, judgments, penalties, including outside attorneys’ fees (individually and collectively “Claims”) which AjPI may suffer by reason of (1) Client’s breach of any of the representations, warranties and agreements herein or (2) any Claims by any third party relating in any way to Client’s Material.

AjPI will not be liable for failure to publish any Client’s Material as requested or for more than one incorrect insertion of a Client’s Material. In the event of an error, or omission in printing or publition of a Client’s Material, AjPI shall be limited to an adjustment for the space occupied by the error, with maximum liability being ncellation of the cost of the first incorrect advertisement or republition of the correct advertisement. under no circumstances shall Asian Publitions, Inc. be liable for consequential damages of any kind.

ASIAN JOURNAL PUBLITIONS, INC. publishes the Los Angeles Asian Journal, published twice a week; the Orange County and Inland Empire Asian Journal, Northern lifornia Asian Journal, Las Vegas Asian Journal and the New York / New Jersey Asian Journal which are published once a week and distributed to Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange Counties, Northern lifornia, Las Vegas and New York and New Jersey respectively.

Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Letters to the Editor are welcome. Letters must contain complete name and return address. The materials, however, are subject to editing and revisions.

Contributions and advertising deadlines are every Mondays and Thursdays. For advertising rates and other informations, please ll the L.A. office at (213) 250-9797 or the Las Vegas Sales Office at (702) 792-6678 or send us an email at info@asianjournalinc.com

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

Dateline PhiliPPines

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULy 14-20, 2017

A

Palace downplays non-invitation to G20 summit

by Jennifer

Soriano

AJPress

MALACAñANg downplayed germany’s non-invitation of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) chairman and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to the prestigious g20 summit.

The Palace on Tuesday, July 11, reacted to the decision of germany, the host of this year’s g20 summit, to drop Duterte among the delegates, saying the Philippine governnment does not need approval from other countries.

“So ang nangyayari actually is nilalakad ng ating Presidente yung ating pag-unlad.Tinukutan niya ‘yung nandito, not necessarily na humihingi siya ng approval ng iba [What is happening is that the president is working for our devel-

opment. Our improvement does not depend on the approval of other people. It’s just that he is focused on affairs here, he’s not necessarily asking for the approval of others],” said Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella during a media interview.

Abella further stated that germany, being the host, has the prerogative over whom to invite.

In lieu of the Philippines, Vietnam, a neighboring country was invited instead, as it will host this year’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit.

This is the second time the ASEAN chairman or representative was not invited since the debut of the membership in 2008 which was held in Washington, D.C. According to the g20 germany

2017 website, “the g20 countries account for more than four-fifths of gross world product and threequarters of global trade, and are home to almost two-thirds of the world’s population.” germany is a major countrymember of the European Union (EU). Duterte has previously lambasted the said European bloc for getting in the way against his controversial campaign against illegal drugs.

In return, the Philippine government turned down a supposed grant from the EU amounting to more than 250 million euros ($278.7 million) in funds for development projects in the country. The move was “to discourage them [EU] from interfering with the internal affairs” of the Philippines.

Palace sees friendlier ties with Church as Davao archbishop heads CBCP

by Jennifer

Soriano

AJPress

MALACAñANg sees a friendlier relationship between the state and the church as the incoming head of the official organization of the Catholic hierarchy in the Philippines has “close ties” with President Rodrigo Duterte.

On Saturday, July 8, Davao Archdiocese Archbishop Romulo Valles was elected as the president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) during its bi-annual plenary assembly held at the Pope Pius XII Catholic Center in Paco, Manila.

Ramon Casiple, executive director of the Institute for Political and Electoral Reform put his high hopes to Valles saying that the Davao prelate’s election as CBCP head could work for the advantage of both parties in resolving issues between the Palace and the bishops, without compromising the church’s stand against bloody war on drugs and the government’s plan on bringing back death penalty.

Valles, having a close ties with Duterte, is depicted to take a different approach in dealing with the sharp-tongued president.

“The Church may have realized that it cannot just publicly criticize the President because he will really retaliate and everyone knows the manner in which he responds to critics,” Casiple said.

Citing the immediate need to address cooperation with the different religious sectors for a more peaceful Mindanao, Presidential

Spokesman Ernesto Abella welcomed Valles.

“The new CBCP head from Davao signals a new day of peace for a multi-cultural Philippines.

His familiarity with Davao and Mindanao would augur well as we promote interfaith dialogue and intercultural understanding as part of our efforts to rebuild Marawi and to transform Mindanao into a land of fulfillment,” Abella said.

Valles will replace LingayenDagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas as the latter will step down on November 30 from his current post he held for four years. The outgoing CBCP president has been upfront of the Catholic church’s stand against Duterte’s handling of societal problems which caused a rough patch between the two factions.

The 66-year-old Valles has been serving as the vice president since December 2013, with Villegas as president.

Further, retired archbishop Oscar Cruz said there was “nothing magical or mystical” because promoting the vice president to the topmost position has been a tradition.

Villegas, the outgoing president said that it is a “mere formality or standard operating procedure.”

Fr. Jerome Secillano, executive secretary of the CBCP public affairs committee, claims that the Church’s stand on the prevailing societal issues in the country shall remain unchanged.

“I don’t think that it will change the Church stand on human rights violations, injustices committed, unemployment and environmental issues, among others,” Secillano said.

“If you noticed, [outgoing CBCP president Soc Villegas]always made a distinction between what he said as president of the CBCP and what he said as archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan,” Secillano added.

In 2015, Valles was the one who announced that the Pope Francis responded to Duterte’s letter appealing for forgiveness for his tirades at the Pope.

“The Holy Father offers the assurance of his prayers for you, as he invokes upon you the divine blessings of wisdom and peace,” stated the letter read by Valles.

Later, Valles and Duterte met in Davao City where the president promised to donate P1,000 to the archdiocese’s charitable arm for every curse he makes in public.

The Davao archbishop also officiated the baptism of Duterte’s grandson, Marko Digong “Stonefish” Duterte-Carpio on March this year.

Valles graduated at the Pontificio Ateneo Sant’ Anselmo in Rome, and has served as a Catholic priest in Mindanao for the past 40 years. He became bishop of Kidapawan in 1997 then later emerged as the archbishop of Zamboanga in 2007.

Valles will serve for twoyear term and is eligible for reelection. n

OUTSTANDING YOUTH SCIENTIST AWARD. Dr. Mario Antonio L. Jiz II (2nd left), hand shakes with Secretary Fortunato T. De La Peña of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) after receiving one of the Outstanding Young Scientist Awards from Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno (2nd left) in Medical Science for his valuable contributions to the understanding of immunity to schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection affecting millions of Filipinos, and the development of vaccines for this disease in the awarding ceremonies during the 2017 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) Celebration with the theme: “Science for the People” held at World Trade Center, Pasay City on Tuesday, July 11. With them are Academician Fabian M. Dayrit (left) Acting President, National Science and Technology (NAST).

PNA photo by Ben Briones

Analyst: China diverting int’l pressure...

PAGE A5 tory, despite an international ruling that concluded it as invalid.

Last year, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague, Netherlands, ruled that China’s massive claims in South China based on its nine-dash line has no legal basis.

“That means that it does not want to allow any exploitation of fisheries, oil and gas, or other re-

sources, or any other economic or military activities, by the Philippines without China’s say-so,” Poling said.

He also warned that China has been installing new missile shelters, radar and other facilities to keep off operations by rivaling claimants within Beijing’s claimed territories.

“The missiles and point defenses are necessary to prevent

Martial law for next 5 years...

PAGE A6 A looming conundrum One nasty conundrum looms on the horizon. The President may want martial law extended, except that under the Constitution, which he and Congress have been loath to follow, it is Congress rather than the President that has the power to extend it for a period it may determine, “if the invasion or rebellion shall persist and public safety requires it.” In the first instance, the power to declare martial law belongs to the President, and he does not have to consult Congress prior to issuing the proclamation. The Constitution merely requires Congress to convene in joint session within 24 hours following the proclamation, and within 48 hours to receive the President’s report, in person or in writing, and to approve or reject the proclamation by a majority

vote of all its members. This did not happen.

A petition was filed before the Supreme Court to compel the Congress leaders to obey the Constitution, but House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez threatened to tear to pieces any court ruling ordering the Congress to convene.

As a result, the Del Castillo ponencia glossed over this particular issue, as though it was never raised at all. Now, Alvarez has been quoted as saying he would like to see martial law extended by at least five years to cover the full extent of DU30’s term. This has compelled the Armed Forces of the Philippines to issue a statement saying it would not countenance such an extension.

Would Congress now want to convene in joint session and exercise the power of extending martial law after contemptuously

the [United States] or others from being able to easily eliminate that threat to regional freedom of the seas,” Poling said.

He further warned that China is already capable of launching combat aircraft and missiles in the area.

“Once that political decision is made, they could be there in a matter of days,” Poling added. refusing to do so in order to pass upon DU30’s original proclamation? Whether or not Congress will do so, doesn’t this politician’s five-year proposal reveal to us, in all its shamelessness and arrogance, that the Davao mafia’s real plan is to make martial law their preferred method of governance?

While the Constitution provides that martial law may be extended after 60 days, if the invasion or rebellion which had prompted it persists, and the public safety requires it, decency and good taste would require that any proposed extension should not exceed the original 60 days, subject to another 60-day extension, if the peril subsists. But all the signs seem to show that we are now dealing with a political mafia whose lusting for power has lost its limits. Unless DU30 is himself part of it, he should now send Alvarez and company packing from Congress. (ManilaTimes.net)

A

july 14-20, 2017 • NORCAl ASIAN jOuRNAl

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

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

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 14-20, 2017

CJ

BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY ournal

Your Immigration Solution Michael Bhotiwihok and nancy Miller IN the Fall of 2017, the United States Supreme Court will rehear arguments on the constitutionality of immigrant detention presented in Jennings v. Rodriguez. (“Rodriguez”) This case raises fundamental questions about freedom and due process for detained immigrants, including includes green card holders and asylum seekers, in the United States.

Because of the issuance of the January 25, 2017 Trump Administration Executive Order on Border Security and Immigration Enforcement Improvements, the Rodriquez’ case outcome has potentially dire consequences for immigrant detainees. The end of the “catch and release” practice policy makes it more likely that immigrants – including those lawfully here – will be detained for immigration violations. With the Trump Administration’s intention to utilize detention as a tool for immigration enforcement, immigrants are also more likely to be denied a bond hearing.

A bond hearing is a basic, guaranteed principle of procedural due process which is found in the United States Constitution; however, many immigrant detainees are routinely denied this fundamental right.

Authority to set bonds for immigrant detainees is shared between the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) and Immigration Judges. The initial determination is whether the non-citizen is subject to mandatory detention. After DHS makes this initial custody determination, an immigrant detainee can generally renew the bond hearing request to an Immigration Judge. At both the bond hearing before DHS and that before the Immigration Judge, the immigrant detainee must show that he is not a flight risk or danger to the community to be released.

However, not all immigrants are eligible for release from detention. An immigrant detainee’s immigration status and/or criminal record may subject him to mandatory detention. The Im-

Supreme Court to rehear case on immigrant detention

migration and Nationality Act requires DHS to take immigrants into custody and hold them without bond if convicted of certain removable offenses and released from jail after October 8, 1998.

Mandatory detention generally applies to immigrants convicted of two crimes involving moral turpitude, an aggravated felony, a controlled substance offense, or a firearms offense.

Once mandatory detention is established, the immigrant detainee remains in custody until the conclusion of his case before the Immigration Judge.

Rodriguez is a class action lawsuit that involves immigrant detainees subject to prolonged detention without a bond hearing. Rodriguez seeks to establish the procedural due process right to a bond hearing for immigrant detainees in DHS custody for six months or more.

In September 2012, the United States District Court, Central District of California issued a preliminary injunction ordering bond hearings for all mandatory detainees and detained asylum seekers who were detained for at least six months. In August 2013, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals made the previously issued order permanent, thereby establishing that a bond hearing be provided automatically to any detainee held in custody for more than six months Normally, bond hearings are held immediately after a detainee is taken into DHS custody.

However, immigrant detainees subject to mandatory detention have very limited eligibility for release from custody. And it is the non-citizen’s burden to prove that he is eligible for release and is not a flight risk or a danger to the community.

At a Rodriguez Bond Hearing, the burden is on DHS and not the immigrant detainee. DHS must prove by clear and convincing evidence that continuing to detain the immigrant is justified based on his risk of flight or danger to the community. Otherwise, the Immigration Judge must release

the immigrant detainee on reasonable conditions of supervision.

The Obama Administration appealed the Ninth Circuit decision to the Supreme Court.

In November 2016, Rodriguez was argued before the Supreme Court, months before Justice Neil Gorsuch filled the seat vacated by the death of the late Justice Antonin Scalia. The Supreme Court requested supplemental briefings after oral argument, however it decided to rehear arguments in the Fall of 2017. Justice Gorsuch could not vote on a case where he had not heard oral argument. It is suspected that the vote was evenly split between the eight justices and that the rehearing was necessary to reach a majority decision.

For immigrant detainees, the Rodriguez case is monumental because no person in the United States should be detained for prolonged periods of time without a hearing to determine if his detention is justified. An automatic bond hearing provides the detainee with the potential of release from custody and reunification with family members. Above all, Rodriguez ensures that justice is fairly applied through procedural due process to immigrant detainees.

An immigrant-detainee or family-member should consult with a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney to determine whether he is eligible for release from custody under Rodriguez or some other grounds.

*** 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)

Techonomy 2017 forum leads a technologyadvanced PH economy Manuel Wong, Managing Director of Acer Philippines’ during his opening speech. File photo

by IrIs

VIcente AJ Press

THE country’s top tech professionals and brands came together for the Techonomy Forum at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in Bonifacio Global City on Friday, July 7.

In this era of high demand for insights on technology and its efficient performance towards conquest of business and organizational goals, the Techonomy Forum is the first ever conference

in the Philippines that probes the key roles of technology in the economy.

The country’s top executives and leaders in businesses, government institutions and the academe gathered in one roof in presenting and exchanging ideas on aspects like Cloud Technology, Business Optimization, Cyber Security, National Broadband policy, FinTech, Tech Marketing and along with other relevant subjects.

The forum was divided into two

sessions: the morning which was exclusively participated by executives and professionals from business and private enterprises, and the afternoon by officials and professionals from government sectors, as well as the academe.

Speakers like Patrick Liao, associate VP of Acer Cloud Technology Inc.; Jose Modesto Rubio, president and CEO of Mynt; National Technology Officer of Microsoft Philippines’ Jomari Mercado, Dan Meyer, founder

ADB staff, nongovernment organizations (NGOs), media, and representatives of observer countries, international organizations, academe and the private sector.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, who was appointed as the Chairman of the ADB Board of Governors, joins forces with DTI Assistant Secretary, Arturo Boncato Jr. in preparations for ADB 2018. Bungcato is known for his outstanding record at handling tourism projects in Mindanao as well as his expertise in Marketing and Communication.

The former assistant secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT) handled certain projects in Mindanao like the Philippine Halal Tourism and was also the

department’s alternate spokesperson at that time.

Boncato, who heads DTI’s Competitiveness and Ease of Doing Business Group, is a former entrepreneur and Hotelier and a graduate from the University of the Philippines with an Arts Degree in Mass Communications.

He is currently the supervising executive of the DTI’s Competitiveness Bureau, E-Commerce, and BIMP-EAGA teams.

He had also chaired the Brunei, Indonesia Malaysia, the Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Tourism Cluster and was Representative to the Bangsamoro Transition Committee.

u PAGE CJ4

DOF, DTI team up in hosting ADB meet next year

by IrIs

VIcente AJ Press

THE Department of Finance (DOF) is teaming up with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the upcoming 51st Asian Development of Bank (ADB) board of governors’ annual meeting to be held in Manila on May 3-6 next year.

The ADB annual meetings is acknowledged for being the leading forum that delves in the economic and social development concerns of Asia and the Pacific.

The forum is an opportunity to provide guidance among ADB administrative, financial, and operational directions as well as maintaining the interactions with

CJ

Community Journal

JULY 14-20, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

California divorce frequently asked questions

The CTV Files atty. lilli B. BaCuli I JUST moved to California last month, and I’d like to file for divorce. Can I file now? To file for divorce in the State of California, the person filing (called the “Petitioner”) must first meet the jurisdictional requirements: (i) residence in the state of California from the past 6 months; and (ii) residence in the county where that person is filing (e.g., San Diego County) for the past 3 months. Residence – put simply, where the Petitioner lives – also determines which courthouse the Petition for Divorce should be filed.

“What if my husband/wife does not want to sign the divorce?” or “My husband/wife does not want to sign the divorce papers, what can I do. ”California is a no-fault divorce state. A party filing for divorce does not need the consent of the other in order to file a Petition for Dissolution (Divorce) or, in some instances, to get a judgment of divorce.

What is “Service of Process?”

Can I just mail the divorce papers to my ex-spouse? Service of Process is a crucial procedural step in the divorce proceedings, because the law reserves for the ex-spouse (called the “Respondent”) the right to respond and appear in court, if s/he wants to.

In proceeding in an action for divorce, there are procedural requirements dictated by law that must be followed to ensure that the other party has notice of the action (that is, that s/he is being brought to court for an action of divorce) and that s/he is given time to respond. However, there is no requirement for the other party to respond. There is no requirement that s/he sign any document at all. All that needs to happen is that s/he is properly served with process according to the rules. Note that “proper service” is defined in the Family Code and must be followed, and the validity of any Judgment

for Divorce rests on the proper service of the Respondent.

“What? I have to share my retirement earnings? This is mine, I worked hard for it!”

California is a community property state and so once you get married, all property acquired during marriage is community property. Separate property are “all property acquired before marriage; all gifts, bequests, devise, or descents. All property acquired or exchanged with traceable separate property; and all property acquired after separation.” However, if anything out of the community property is used towards separate property, the community might have a claim on part(s) of separate property.

“I don’t want to pay spousal support.” Whether you like it or not, spousal support will be ordered if the other party makes a request, and the court deems that the circumstances call for it.

u PAGE CJ4

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette aDeva Maglaya (Continued from last week’s issue) POOR Echo! Her heart broke into a million little pieces. Beauty and light dissolved into darkness for her until nothing held any meaning. Refusing food and drink, Echo grew pale and consumptive and faded away, leaving only her far-off voice in the distance. It is said that Echo haunts the mountains where she answers all who call but only with the last words.

Narcissus meanwhile continued to break one hapless heart after another in the most mean spirited away, until one day, one totally aggrieved nymph with her heart shattered, prayed to the powers that be, for vengeance, to inflict punishment on Narcissus to make him feel the pure pain of unrequited love, to make him feel how it is to give love and have it flung back in his face. Her prayer was heard and in a world of swift and even-handed justice with no lawyers, judges and jury to cloud the issue, appropriate punishment was served.

One day Narcissus chanced upon a pool with water so clear, it looked like a mirror. Bending over to drink, Narcissus saw his own reflection, thought it was a water nymph, and forthwith, was smitten with the image on

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS

WE ARE

HIRING Asian Journal Publications is now looking for:

Customer Sales and Service Representative Fax résumé to:

THE American Academy of Pediatric strictly recommends no fruit juices for babies, absolutely no fruit juices at all, before age one, and very limited, if at all, for toddlers and older children.

This is a major shift from the recommendation of the AAP 16 years ago, when it even allowed fruit juices for the first 6 months.

The academy today even recommends doing away with the beloved sippy cup for children, which is a contributing factor in childhood obesity and T2 diabetes.

There is no evidence of any health benefit of fruit juices in infancy and the high sugar load in them is actually harmful. One of the authors of a recent study, Dr. Steven Abrams, Chair of Pediatrics at Dell Medical school at the University of Texas, Austin, also said “offering babies juice could keep them from getting enough breast milk or formula — and the needed protein, fat and other nutrients they contain….once babies start eating solid foods, they should have whole fruit that is mashed or pureed, rather than juice.”

Fruit juices, which are loaded with sugar, and artificial fruit drinks, are actually unhealthy.

The only worse beverage are soft drinks, which are toxic for both adults and children, increasing the risk for Metabolic Syndrome.

The bad health effects are not obvious right away. They take years to manifest in various organs. By then, the damage is done, and different ailments start to appear.

Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of major risk factors that contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and arthritis, T2 diabetes, thyroid problems, and even cancer.

The heartbreaking realities of poverty in our country and worldwide are painful to realize and accept, both as a human being and as a physician. The less privileged usually have limited or no other option at all but to feed their children and eat whatever is available or accessible to them, healthy or not. To most of them, nutritional science is an abstract, irrelevant, and of no practical value.

While I empathize with them and can not blame them for their eating habits, I strongly feel that those who are better educated and can afford are being unwise and are hurting themselves, impairing their health, by unhealthy practices like drinking soft drinks,

An old tale on self-absorption (Conclusion of 2 parts)

“Vanity of vanities; ALL is vanity.” - From Ecclesiastes the pool. He fell in love with the image of himself, hook, line and sinker, not unlike celebrities who read their own press and believe them to be true. But I digress.

Narcissus tried to embrace his own reflection in the water but his attempt to touch or kiss his beloved ended in frustration each time. The image in the water dissolved into ripples, disappeared and came back on. Narcissus had to be content just by looking at the mirror image of himself in the pool, day and night, without ever knowing the joy of touching or being loved in return. He now knew, up close and personal, the excruciating pain of multiple rejections from the same object of his affection. Still he persisted, becoming rooted to the spot by the pool. He now knew how it is to be on the receiving end of rejection. He slowly pined away, losing his youth and beauty and withering away on the same spot by the pool’s edge with Echo still hovering over him and repeating his poignant last word, “Alas!” as he lay dying.

As the woodland creatures prepared to bury his body, Narcissus’ body was nowhere to be found and in its place, stood a flower, bending over the pool, as

though admiring itself. Gardeners know this flower as narcissus.

Hence, we call those who exhibit the same folly these days as narcissistic. The irony of it is that others clearly see it for what it is but the afflicted individual is blind to this egocentric flaw in himself, thinking the world revolves around him. In today’s world, there’s opportunity to cash in on this human flaw and use vanity and self-image as hot buttons to sell their wares: beauty products and services, diet pills and machines and illusions of power and beauty, with remarkable success. Self-improvement is great but only if it comes from the inside out.

Pray that both the “once young” and the young ones don’t fall prey to the trappings of extreme self-absorption that rule the global culture of the present age. Self love taken to extreme, is something that might account for much of the social problems affluent societies with only one or two self-absorbed children per family, experience and suffer from today. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette. maglaya@asianjournalinc.com

Fruit juices: Bad for babies

smoking, and alcohol abuse. We ought to know better.

Once babies are started on solids at four to six months old, they do not need additional liquids besides breast milk or formula.

Water, maybe, from time to time, but certainly not fruits juices.

For older children, the Academy recommends restrictions on fruit juices, if given at all: four ounces daily for toddlers age one to three; six ounces or less for four- to six-year-olds; and less than eight ounces for older children and teens. Fruit juices may be omitted altogether, and instead, fresh fruits, or freshly squeezed juices, are better alternatives.

The bad thing about fruit juices from powder mixes or from concentrates, is not only because are they practically only sugar and water, and the fact that many children drink these as replacements for (and not consume) fruits and vegetables, and, therefore, miss the fiber, nutrients and vitamins in them.

The healthier drinks are clean filtered water and milk (with no sugar additive). Staying away from soft drinks and limited intake of fruit juices could also help reduce the risk for obesity.

It is best for children to develop the habit of eating fruits and vegetables, drinking water and milk at an early age instead of sugary fruit juice mixes.

Also, sippy cups (non-restricted sipping of sugary drinks and high risk of tooth decay among users) are bad for children; drinking from a cup is what the Academy recommends. If sippy cup is used, it should only be filled with water and or measured milk at a fixed schedule of feeding.

The more red meat you eat A new clinical investigation published in the British Journal of Medicine (BMJ) reveals “the more red meat you eat, the greater your risk is of dying from one of eight diseases.”

The research involved 536,000 men and women, ages between 50 and 71, whose diet and health were tracked for 16 years. Their food intake, total meat, processed and unprocessed red meats (beef, pork, lamb), and white meats (poultry and fish).

“Compared with the one-fifth of people who ate the least red meat, the one-fifth who ate the most had a 26 percent increased risk of death from various causes.

High red meat consumption increased the rate of dying from cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke, diabetes, infections, kidney disease and liver disease,” according to BMJ. The study pointed out that white met, on the other hand,

may be good for people because “those who ate the highest proportion of white meat had a 25 percent reduced risk of dying from various causes, compared with those who ate the least white meat.”

And which fish is better?

As far as nutritionon and health are concerned, there seems to be no big argument that fish is healthier than red meat. But the question is which fish is better, just the fatty fish?

No, new studies showed that any kind of fish consumed at least twice a week reduces various health risks.

The oily darker fleshed fish like herring and salmon are loaded with heart-healthy polyunsaturated, omega-3 fatty acids.

Mackerel, anchovies, shad, trout and sardines, and other fish also have these wonderful cardio-protective fatty acids.

The giant or large varieties of fish, like king mackerel, shark, swordfish, large albacore tuna, contain more methyl mercury and therefore not recommended for consumption.

But these good fats are not the only reason why fish is better for us, compared to red meat. USFDA dietary guidelines encourage adults to partake at least 8 ounces of a variety of fish and seafood every week, about 2meal’s worth to benefit from the “total package of nutrients in fish.” This includes lean protein, vitamin Bs, A and D, and minerals like iodine, selenium, zinc, and iron.

Several independent studies have shown that individuals who eat fish regularly are less likely to die of a heart attack compared to those who do not eat fish. A Harvard clinical review “concluded that eating one to two servings of fish rich in omega-3s every week cut the risk of dying of a heart attack by one-third.” Those on Mediterranean style diet that includes seafood also have lower risk and rate of obesity.

Visit philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com *** 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

Governor Espino lays out biz opportunities in Pangasinan at Asia CEO Forum

by IrIs

VIcente AJ Press

info@asianjournalinc.com

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

GOVERNOR Amado Espino III laid out across-the-board investment opportunities in Pangasinan preceding business executives and investors at the Asia CEO Forum in Dusit Thani Makati on Wednesday, July 5.

As the leader of the Pangasinan delegation, Espino encouraged the foreign and local investors to explore the vast investment op-

portunities and fascinating wonders of his revered province.

“Make our home, your home” he said as he put out confident reasons why Pangasinan is an excellent place to settle and venture. Espino challenged investors to check out his zone’s five largescale investment areas: Agriculture (especially on food and fish processing) Tourism (particularly on accommodation facilities like restaurants, pasalubong centers,

u PAGE CJ3

Pangasinan Gov. Amado Espino III.

Community Journal

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

The August 2017 priority dates

Immigration Corner

Calendar of Events across

The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows:

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

Application Filing Date

FAMILY CATEGORY:

EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below.

If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again.

Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month).

This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are

Visa Issuance Date

First Preference

Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)

Second Preference

(2A) Spouse and minor children (below April 8, 2016 21 years old) of green card holder

September 22, 2015

(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder

July 22, 2007

December 8, 2006

Third Preference

Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.

February 1, 1995

January 22, 1995

Fourth Preference

Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.

February 8, 1995

April 8, 1994

LABOR CERTIFICATION:

September 8, October 15, 2007 2006

Application Filing Date

Second Preference

Advanced Degree (Masters)

Third Preference

Professional/ Skilled Workers

Other Workers

Non-Skilled Workers

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 attorney-

Visa Issuance Date

Current

April 1, 2015

January 1, 2016

June 1, 2015

January 1, 2016

June 1, 2015

client 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)

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 14-20, 2017

CJ

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS J U LY 1 1 -1 6

11th Ambassadors’ Tour to Manila & Davao The 11th Ambassadors’ Tour will take place in the Philippines from July 11 to 16. Led by the Department of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism’s Tourism Promotions Board and Rajah Tours, the itinerary for the 11th Ambassadors’ Tour combines the best of Metropolitan Manila up North and the sprawling city of Davao in the South into one adventure-packed and enriching vacation experience. The four-day stay in Davao, the King City of the South and current seat of power in the Philippines, is a special highlight of this year’s event. Participants in this year’s tour will be presented with an opportunity to experience Davao up-close. It is a chance for the participants to revel in Davao’s picturesque landscapes through its nature parks, agricultural farms, and resorts, experience the diversity of its people through a series of courtesy calls with Philippine government officials, and feel the harmony of its culture through its heritage and cultural museums. Tailor-fit to tell the narrative of a new, safer, more beautiful Philippines, the tour will provide its participants with enough experience to engage their respective communities and leverage goodwill towards Filipinos and generate interest in the Philippines. Delegates who will be part of the program become “Filipino ambassadors” in their own right, carrying a fresh perspective and the message of a new and improved Philippines when they go back to the United States. As “Filipino Ambassadors,” this year’s delegates will be well-capable of showcasing the strides made in tourism, economic development, and public safety in the Philippines to the larger international community. For more information and to register, please visit http://www. acgtdt.com.

J U LY 1 5

Money Smart for Small Business in El Monte, CA Come to an introductory two-day business course designed for newer business owners, self-employed individuals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Course topics include: startup planning, organizational types, risk management, credit reporting, business insurance, time & financial management, selling & succession planning, banking services for small businesses, recordkeeping, and tax & business planning. The curriculum is developed jointly by the FDIC and the SBA. It will be held on Saturday, July 15 and July 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cathay Bank (9650 Flair Dr., El Monte, CA 91731). The fee is $20 payable to Asian Pacific Islander Small Business Program (API SBP). Breakfast, lunch and course materials will be provided by Cathay Bank. There will be limited seating so advance registration is required. To register, please contact Colleen Seto at (213) 373-1605 or cseto@ltsc.org. Participants will be eligible for free business counseling by API SBP.

Echo Park, Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA Echo Park Tennis Club adult & senior men’s doubles tennis tournament In cooperation with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation & Parks, the Echo Park Tennis Club will be hosting an adult & senior men’s doubles tournament on Saturday, July 15. It will be held at the Echo Park Tennis Courts at 526 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026 (corner of Temple St. and Glendale Blvd.) The trophy presentation will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 16 at the Lotus Festival at Echo Park. For more information, please contact Diana Diankoff at (323) 497-0879 or Perla Santos at (213) 368-3222.

AFTER 13 YEARS OF WAITING FOR THE FAMILY TO BE REUNITED, THE U.S. EMBASSY STILL DENIED THE RELEASE OF THEIR VISAS. MISERY AND REDEMPTION ON AN ENCORE EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY.” Tatay Lando (2nd from right) went to the US to provide a better life for his family. After 13 years, the petition became current in 2016.

However, when his son, Allan (left), and his grandson, Chean (2nd from right) went to the U.S. Embassy for their interview, some doubtful details came up in Allan’s paperwork that caused the Embassy to deny their visas.

Father and son left the Embassy heartbroken and traumatized over the incident.

Immediately, Tatay Lando sought the help of leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel.

Watch how hope was renewed, and a family was happily reunited after many, many years on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC. (Advertising supplement)

Business News

PH tax reform to burden ‘ultra rich’ Filipinos

by IrIs

VIcente AJ Press

FINANCE Secretary Carlos Dominguez III proposes a shift of the taxation burden to ultra-rich Filipinos while mitigating it to the majority of the population.

The reform package launched

by President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration known as the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act (TRAIN), delves into putting an end to the decades of inequitable taxation which contradicts wealth rather than disseminating it.

The shift is said to benefit in building a booming middle class to establish an adherent and sustainable progress of the country.

“The proposed tax reform package will end the complex and vulnerable revenue system

we have in place. It will ensure that our tax system is simple, just and efficient. It will ensure government a healthy and recurrent revenue flow to fund education, health and other social services,” Dominguez said in his speech at a tax forum entitled: “1 with the 99” last Wednesday, July 5.

The fundamental part of the Duterte administration’s economic strategy tagged as “Dutertenomics” desires to sustain a high growth rate of seven percent over the medium term along with bringing down poverty incidence rate to 14 percent by 2022.

The inclusive tax reform program passed in May under House Bill 5636 is a federation of the initial tax reform bill (HB 4774) filed by Quirino Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua, and 54 other taxrelated measures in which it tar-

gets to cut personal income tax rates, lower donor’s and estate taxes, and, at the same time, adjust the excise taxes on fuel and automobiles, expand the valueadded tax base and equip a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages among other measures.

“This is the chance for us to break out from the cycle of moderate growth and achieve a fastgrowing, dynamic and investment-driven economy. This is a conjuncture that allows us to join the ranks of tiger economies. We should not let this historic opportunity pass us,” Dominguez said.

DOF is said to continue holding talks to senators in explaining the value of the tax reform so as to convince them in securing the original endorsed version bordered in Cua’s HB 4774.

the project.

The Pangasinan Code of 2016 is the modified adaptation of the 2003 Investment Code which is one of the first passed provincial ordinances under Espino’s administration.

Espino furthermore advertised his province’s gains in agriculture, tourism, employment services and peace and order.

Along with the governor were city mayors: Arthur Celeste of Alaminos, San Carlos’ Mayor Joseres Resuello, Amadeo Gregorio IV of Urdaneta, and Belen Fernandez of Dagupan together with municipal mayors of Manaog, Kim Amador, Simplicio Rosario of Binmaley,Michael Cruz of Umingan and Eric Versoza of Dasol who come through for their corresponding city’s/municipality’s

future businesses and transactions.

President and CEO Rey Untal of IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines, Deputy Director-General for Operations Harriet Abordo of Philippine Economic Zone Authority and former Pangasinan Provincial Administrator Rafael Howard F. Baraan were among the guests in the forum proper.

A six-minute audiovisual presentation was played after Espino’s speech highlighting Pangasinan’s exquisite offerings and advancement.

Dasol, Pangasinan’s ASNA awardee, Richard Mills and wife, Rebecca Bustamante made the province’s participation in the said forum, possible.

Governor Espino lays out...

PAGE CJ2 t

terminals, recreation centers, theme parks, museums and farm tourist sites), Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), renewable energy and ecozone advancement.

The provincial chief officer disclosed that competent businesses to settle shall revel in financial allurement that is established in the Pangasinan Code of 2016 in which investors shall avail the following: one year to five years full exemption from payment of Governor’s permit on business activities, full exemption from payment of annual fixed tax for every delivery of truck or van, and full exemption from the share of the province based on the payment of Basic Real Property Tax acquired or built purposely for

J U LY 2 0

LEAP’s 35th anniversary celebration in Los Angeles Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics, Inc. (LEAP) is proud to celebrate 35 years of ”Growing Leaders” on Thursday, July 20 and the leadership of individuals that exemplify LEAP’s mission to achieve full participation and equality for Asian and Pacific Islanders through leadership, empowerment, and policy. Proceeds from the event will be used to develop LEAP’s innovative leadership programs, cutting-edge public policy research, and nationwide community building. This year’s 35th Anniversary Celebration will be like no other gala that LEAP has had in the past. LEAP’s 35th Anniversary Celebration will be an eventful evening that will be both interactive and experiential. With an abundance of food and friends, LEAP will celebrate those who have shaped the organization, those who have been impacted by the organization, and those who continue to grow as Asian and Pacific Islander leaders and dream big. Honores for the individual leadership award include Fatima Bustos-Choy, Phd, founder of Gaia Flow Consulting and CEO And owner of Body & Brain Holistic Wellness Center; Kenneth Kasamatsu, advisor to the CEO, E-Central Credit Union / The Pacific Bridge Companies, and founder of Pacific Commerce Bank ; Geri Mannion, program director, U.S. Democracy and Special Opportunities Fund at Carnegie Corporation of New York; and Paul Ong, director of the Center for Neighborhood Knowledge at UCLA. The David R. Barclay Alumni Leadership Award will be presented to Scott Chan, program director for the Asian Pacific Islander Forward Movement and Patricia A. Neilson, director of Asian American Student Success at University of Massachusetts Boston. The VIP & general reception will begin at 5 p.m., while the program is from 7 to 10 p.m. It will be held at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (244 South San Pedro Street Los Angeles, CA 90012). Attire is business. To RSVP, visit www.leap.org/celebration_tickets. For more information about registration, contact Mayta Lor at (213) 485-1422 x 4105 or mlor@leap.org.

J U LY 2 1 -23

Filipino Caucus Family Retreat in Lake Hughes, CA The Filipino Caucus of the California Pacific Annual Conference (CALPAC) of the United Methodist Church (UMC) is inviting its members to a family retreat to be held from July 21 to 23. The venue will be the scenic Oak Camps and Conference Center (18651 Pine Canyon Road, Lake Hughes, California). The Rev. Dr. Bener Agtarap, Associate General Secretary of the UMC Board of Discipleship Ministry will be the resource person and guest speaker during the three- day gathering to be marked with group discussions and fellowship. “Rekindling the Flame” will be the theme of this retreat. According to Rev. Nelson Castorillo, the Filipino Caucus president, the goal of the retreat is re-igniting and rekindling the symbolic flame representing the spirit and unity of this growing group of Filipino-American Methodists and hoping this type of gathering will reenergize and revitalize the Church.

The Rosewood UMC, headed by Ding Lapus, is coordinating the event. He is assisted

by Noribel Taguba, Vicky Ignacio, Dennis Mañacop, Auring Garcia, John Umaguing, Revs.

Manny Predas and Lisa Santiago. Food and lodging for three days is $148 and $103 for children 7-12 years old. Check is payable to the Filipino Caucus, PO Box 10435, Glendale, CA 91209. For more information please call Rev. Nelson (909) 538-7606 or email at nelsonpreacher@gmail.com.

J U LY 22

Money Smart for Small Business in El Monte, CA Come to an introductory business course designed for newer business owners, selfemployed individuals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Course topics include: startup planning, organizational types, risk management, credit reporting, business insurance, time & financial management, selling & succession planning, banking services for small businesses, recordkeeping, and tax & business planning. The curriculum is developed jointly by the FDIC and the SBA. It will be held on Saturday, July 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cathay Bank (9650 Flair Dr., El Monte, CA 91731). The fee is $20 payable to Asian Pacific Islander Small Business Program (API SBP). Breakfast, lunch and course materials will be provided by Cathay Bank.

There will be limited seating so advance registration is required. To register, please contact Colleen Seto at (213) 373-1605 or cseto@ltsc.org. Participants will be eligible for free business counseling by API SBP.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

CJ4

JULY 14-20, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Business news

Gov’t sets new fiscal calendar to avoid under-spending

by Ben O. de Vera Inquirer.net

MANILA — To avoid underspending, economic managers have set a national government fiscal calendar that has laid down deadlines for agencies to meet planning and budgeting targets.

On June 30, Budget Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia issued Joint Circular No. 2017-1, which put in place the calendar that agencies have been mandated to follow in order to “strengthen the link between planning and budgeting through the establishment of a unified calendar of fiscal activities in the national government, complemented by a unified schedule of publications and reports.”

The calendar will “synchronize the schedule of the fiscal activities conducted by national government agencies, oversight offices and executive committee,” hence will “enable the public to hold the government and its agencies accountable for diligently implementing their fiscal responsibilities,” the three economic managers said in the circular.

Covered by the circular were all departments, agencies, bureaus, offices, commissions, state universities and colleges, government-owned and/or controlled corporations, as well as other national government instrumentalities, they said.

The economic managers noted that “while large increases in maintenance outlays and capital expenditures are planned, underspending, especially in capital outlays, has been significant in the last years.”

Given that the Duterte administration wanted to ramp up spending on public goods and services to ultimately slash the poverty rate to 14 percent by 2022, the economic managers said they wanted to address the main culprit for underspending, which was “pervasive organizational weaknesses within national government agencies and GOCCs which hampered their ability to execute programs well and spend fast.”

Specifically, government agencies struggled with the following: bottlenecks in program or project implementation including difficulties in securing clear-

EMPLOYMENT

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

People & Events THE La’O family is sad to announce that Teofila C. La’O (beloved mother of Richard La’O, CPA, MSMOT) passed away Friday, July 7, 2017 at 4:39 a.m.. Her remains lie at the Colonial Chapels, 1000 Redwood Street, Vallejo, CA 94590.

Viewing: Thursday-Friday July 13-14 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Vigil Mass: Friday, July 14 at 7 p.m.. Funeral Mass: Saturday, July 15 at 10 a.m. at St Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church, 3450 Tennessee Street, Vallejo, CA 94591.

Techonomy 2017 forum...

PresidentRodrigoRoaDutertepresidesovertheNationalEconomicandDevelopmentAuthority (NEDA)BoardMeetingattheAguinaldoStateDiningRoominMalacañanPalaceonJune27, 2017. Also in the photo are Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III. Photo by Richard Madelo/Presidential Photo

ances or permits, coordination problems, right of way and other legal issues, delays in billing and approval of suppliers’ claims, as well as weak local government unit implementation capability; poor planning and program/project design, including delays in complying with preconditions for release; and procurement difficulties, including frequent bid failures, weak capacity and delays in finalizing specifications, as well as weak operational planning.

“Given these, there is a need to build up planning capacities to strengthen the link between the Philippine Development Plan (PDP), the strategic plans of the agencies and the budget; and improve and firm up agency operational plans prior to the commencement of the budget execution,” the economic managers said, referring to the PDP for 2017-2022, which targets 7-8 percent gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the medium term as well as reduce unemployment to as low as 3-5 percent by 2022.

PDP 2017-2022 was the first medium-term development plan anchored on the AmBisyon Natin 2040, an apolitical long-term vision aimed at making the Philippines a high-income country by 2040.

Based on the circular, all government agencies must review or assess their spending performance during the previous year as early as January, alongside submission of their proposals for the succeeding year to the Depart-

ment of Budget and Management.

By March, the Cabinet must already approve the budget priorities framework as well as the sector ceilings for the next national budget, while the National Economic and Development Authority Board chaired by the President must approve the capital projects to be included in the budget proposal.

In May, the Cabinet-level, interagency Development Budget Coordination Committee must set the final medium-term macroeconomic assumptions and fiscal program for the budget year.

The proposed national budget for the next year must be approved by the Cabinet in June, such that the Office of the President can submit the proposal to Congress by July.

Following budget deliberations in the lower and upper houses of Congress from August to November, the succeeding year’s appropriations must be ratified and enacted.

As far as budget execution is concerned, the economic managers ordered agencies to start awarding contracts as early as January.

By August, agencies must already begin early procurement procedures for activities and projects intended under the following year’s budget.

Agencies are also required to submit monthly, quarterly and annual reports on various budget performance indicators to ensure accountability to spending.

EMPLOYMENT

PAGE CJ1 t

and president of Decision Marketing Analytics and Intelligence Philippines (DMAIPH) and DR. Donald Patrick Lim, Country CEO of Dentsu Aegis Network Philippines; were among the speakers during the morning session.

They talked and helped participants understand the impact of digital transformation in solving corporate issues and the need to tap into companies like the ones they represent in this generation where businesses demand ventures in technology in order to thrive.

Among the afternoon session speakers were Roger Wu of Pan Asia Pacific Business Development Acer Cloud Technology, Galvin Ngo, CEO of Woohoo Learning Lab; David Tapang, Education Lead of Microsoft Philippines; Carlo Ople, VP for Digital Marketing of PLDT Enterprise; and Engr. Allan Salim Cabanlong, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Information Communication and Technology (DICT) who also provided intelligent insights on the importance of technology education in this era of tech-savvies especially its role in improving the future of government and academic sectors’ services.

“Why is this a great time to think of education technology or technology integration? Over the past few years, one phenomenon has been that technology has become easier to use and I’d like to think that’s true. Because technology has become easier, we can now lift this crucial shift in the educational sphere a shift not just from learning about technology but also learning with technology,” Ngo said in his presentation.

“When we take this paradigm shift, we ask this very important question: What does learning with technology enable? and like to think it’s a very important question because this shifts the question away from technology to the purpose of technology and i’d like to think that we should have a good grasp of the purpose even before touching any particular technology” he added.

The event is co-presented by Engr. Allan Salim Cabanlong, Assistant Acer Philippines and Microsoft SecretaryoftheDepartmentofInformation Philippines.

Communication and Technology (DICT).

Roger Wu of Pan Asia Pacific Business Development Acer Cloud Technology.

Techonomy forum 2017 afternoon session

EMPLOYMENT

SERVICES

Community Journal

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

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • JULY 14-20, 2017

CJ

People & Events

Adding additional security to protect what’s important to you

by Eric

PhilliPs

SOCIAL Security continues to evaluate and improve how we protect what’s important to you.

We take this responsibility seriously, and we have a robust cybersecurity program in place to help protect the personal information you entrust to us. Adding additional security measures to safeguard your personal information — but making them easy to use — is a vital part of keeping you safe and secure.

Most people who do business with us online use our my Social Security portal, where, if you currently receive benefits you can: • Request a replacement Social Security card if you meet certain requirements; • Get your benefit verification letter; • Check your benefit and payment information and your earnings record; • Change your address and phone number; • Start or change direct deposit of your benefit payment;

• Request a replacement Medicare card; and • Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S for tax season.

If you currently don’t receive benefits, you can request a replacement Social Security card if you meet certain requirements, check the status of your application or appeal, as well as access a number of other useful resources.

Since my Social Security became available in May 2012, more than 30 million people have created and use my Social Security accounts.

As of June 10, 2017, we require a second method to check the identification of my Social Security account holders when they register or sign in. This is in addition to the first layer of security, a username and password.

You will be able to choose either your cell phone or your email address as your second identification method. Using two ways to identify you when you log on will help better protect your account from unauthorized use and potential identity fraud. If

you plan to select email as your second method, you can ensure that the one-time security code email does not go into your spam or junk folder by adding NO-REPLY@ssa.gov to your contact list.

We’re committed to using the best technologies and standards available to protect our customers’ data. This new security advancement is just one of the ways we’re ensuring the safety of the resources entrusted to us.

The my Social Security portal will also now automatically adjust to the size of the screen and kind of device you are using – such as a tablet, smart phone, or computer. No matter what type of device you choose, you will have full, easy-to-use access to your personal my Social Security account.

Our new my Social Security design puts you in control — whether you’re using a computer, smart phone, or tablet.

(Eric Phillips is a Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Sacramento, CA)

FASAE to hold its 41st anniversary and induction on July 15 Founded in 1976, the Filipino American Society of Architects and Engineers (FASAE) will celebrate its 41st Anniversary on July 15, 2017. This year marks the very first time in its history that FASAE’s president was re-elected to a second consecutive term.

This well-deserved honor goes to Nomer Gutierrez, a CalTrans civil engineering manager of a Design Group in Stockton, CA. During his first year as president, Nomer launched a series of Leadership seminars to enable its members to successfully compete for new levels of assignments at their places of employment as part of FASAE’S Professional Development Program. The training is also preparing its members to more actively contribute to the growth

and development of their respective families and communities.

More valuable to FASAE and its members is the practical, experiential application of the leadership training on its project entitled “Engineering Sustainable Health” that shall include the intention of magnifying the results of the medical mission projects in which Dr. Arlaine Gutierrez, the true life partner of Nomer, participates with heartfelt dedication. This project shall also forge a partnership between FASAE and medical groups to establish a mutually supporting relationship that shall nourish the efforts of its members at a personal level: that of successfully achieving a total, holistic program of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual sustainable health and wellbeing.

In addressing the issues along the path of sustainable health, Nomer is leading the way to use the knowledge, abilities, skills and experience of FASAE’s architects and engineers in the rehabilitation, upgrading, and modernizing of buildings and structures to the achievement of well-being of the 12 different systems of the body - merging engineering laws and medical practices, using an inclusive range of health and healing modalities, to address the many killer health conditions and debilitating ailments caused by overweight, inactivity, improper diet, bad posture habits, and undisciplined thinking, actions, emotions, and indeterminate moral guidelines.

Candidate filing period opens on July 17 for the November 7, 2017 consolidated municipal, school & special district election Filing period is open from July 17 through August 11 REDWOOD City, CA — Mark Church, San Mateo County Chief Elections Officer & Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder, announced the opening of the candidate filing period for the November 7, 2017 Consolidated Municipal, School & Special District Election.

For candidates seeking elected office, the filing period opens at 8 a.m. on July 17 and closes at 5 p.m. on August 11. For offices without an eligible incumbent

seeking re-election, the candidate filing period is open for an additional five (5) calendar days and closes at 5 p.m. on August 16.

“The quality of life in our communities is determined by the character and integrity of our elected officials and governing bodies,” said Church. “The success of our democracy depends on engaged citizens coming forth to serve their communities in an elected public office.”

Persons interested in serving

their communities in an elected office should call San Mateo County Candidate Filing Officer, Michelle Yue, at 650.312.5293, to make an appointment to review the steps, forms and requirements to run for office.

The offices that will be up for election on the November 7, 2017 Consolidated Municipal, School & Special District Election ballot include: Municipal Council Members and Officers

Eskwela Natin in Sacramento to hold graduation of summer program

Global Public Art Initiative: Portals connecting San Francisco to the world comes to Crissy Field this summer

SAN FRANCISCO — The National Park Service and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy are partnering with Shared_Studios and Luminalt Solar Energy Solutions to present the San Francisco Portal at Crissy Field. Portals—gold shipping containers equipped with immersive audiovisual technology located in public sites around the world—help connect people across the globe in the spirit of understanding each other’s cultures and experiences. Portals is an ongoing global initiative created by Shared_Studios and presented in partnership with nonprofits, community groups, and businesses around the world.

“When you enter a Portal, you come face-to-face, live, full-body, with someone in an identical gold shipping container somewhere else in the world,” said Michelle Moghtader, Co-Founder of Shared_Studios. “Participants use Portals to have a personal connection with someone from another part of the world.

They explore the culture and history of other places, talk with one another about their lives, exchange ideas, and collaboratively celebrate, create, perform, and play together. We’re especially excited for the relaunch of the

Portal in San Francisco, as it will be our first solar powered Portal thanks to Luminalt Solar Energy Solutions. Many of our conversations will focus on topics such as climate, the environment, sustainability, and public space.”

The San Francisco Portal at Crissy Field will connect to the entire Portals network, including sites in Afghanistan, Honduras, Iraq, Jordan, Germany, Rwanda, and Mexico. The Portal at Crissy Field is presented in partnership with the National Park Service and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy as part of its Art in the Parks initiative. Participants at the San Francisco Portal at Crissy Field are invited to enter the Portal to converse live with an individual abroad as if in the same room.

“One of the many great things national parks do is connect people to nature. Through our Art in the Parks program, this Portal takes it a step further by connecting people in our park to people in other nations,” said Acting General Superintendent of Golden Gate National Recreation Area Cicely Muldoon. “Innovative art such as the Portal uses technology to stimulate human interaction by connecting individuals from around the globe on a per-

sonal level.”

“Our Art in the Parks initiative seeks to bring art to park settings to provide new ways of experiencing and learning about place and to foster wider civic engagement and dialogue around today’s most important social issues,” said Greg Moore, President & CEO of the Parks Conservancy. “Programs like the Portal encourage an exploration and discussion on the inter-relationships between art, culture, nature, and our changing world.

Our goal is to create meaningful connections for strangers around the world using innovative communications technology.”

The San Francisco Portal will be placed in the heart of the Golden Gate National Parks—at the Crissy East Beach, near the Crissy Field Center, from July 20 through September. It will be open to the public Thursday through Sunday (check parksconservancy.org/portal for hours). Solar-powered by Luminalt, the Portal will be staffed by a Portal Curator, and live language interpretation will be provided. Participation is free, but preregistration is advised. For details, visit parksconservancy. org/portal.

attorney so as not to waste your time and money, not to mention the court’s time and resources, especially when you have to keep going back to court because of incomplete or missing documents that could have been addressed from the very beginning by a competent and knowledgeable attorney.

Not all divorce cases are the same. It is important to be properly informed about your rights and responsibilities under California law in divorce proceedings.

The wrong advice or information can and will hurt you, and waste your time and money. Consult a licensed and experienced family

law attorney to help you navigate through your divorce. �� �� ��

California divorce frequently asked...

PAGE CJ2 t

Some of the factors that the Court will look at to determine whether there is basis for support, and if so, in what amount, are – length of marriage, age of parties, if there are minor children in the marriage, income of both parties.

“Why do I need an attorney?” You don’t need an attorney. There is no requirement that you must have an attorney.

However, in cases involving issues such as domestic violence, custody disputes, child support, spousal support, and division of community property assets it would be wise to seek advice from a licensed and experienced

Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship.

Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 4958088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys. com. For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com.

Eskwela Natin, our Filipino School, based in Sacramento, California is celebrating graduation of their 5th year summer program students. This will be on Sunday, July 30, 2017 at noon to be held at the Community Room of the Human Resources

County Building, 2450 Florin Road, Sacramento CA. Guest speaker will be Hon. Ruth Asmundson, former mayor of Davis, California For more information, please contact Dolores Diaz, doloresvdiaz@gmail.com

And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event.

To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice.

The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.

CJ

JULY 14-20, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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

Friday, July 14, 2017

SF2

cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - July 14, 2017

Branded apparel in various sizes, colors and designs were also among the favorite items on the list.

Chocolates top the list of favorite balikbayan box contents, with four in every five people nonchalantly picking the said item as their personal favorite.

Inquirer.net photos

UNBOXING FILIPINO CULTURE

Close family ties and most loved items in a balikbayan box

by NATHALIE

IF there lies a single thing that would ultimately define Filipino identity, one would have to fly around the world and back, and still would not know what it would be. That is how diverse and colorful the Filipino culture is. Packed with various traits, characteristics, upbringing, talents and skills; no wonder you cannot confine the Filipino people in a single category.

More often than not, you will find traces of them wherever you go.

One of the factors which certainly sets Filipinos apart from the rest, are their close family ties. In a common household, it is not surprising to see extended families living under the same roof. The concept of family not only applies as to what the law perceives—the smallest unit of society. For Filipinos, it is one flesh, blood, and legacy established at birth. What is valued in a family often corresponds with the values that one possess.

These familial ties gave birth to the idea of the “pasalubong.”

It is a concept in the Philippines that whenever someone leaves home or travels, he has to bring

ROBLES/AJPress

As technology continuously progresses, mobile phones, personal computers, tablets, and cameras are among the common preferences of Filipinos as their preferred pasalubong.

back some sort of token from his destination upon his return.

Thus, the word pasalubong can also be translated as ‘something meant for you when you welcome me back.’ It has a few sentimental connotations, as in rejoicing the safe homecoming of someone who was away for a time.

Despite the influx of overseas Filipinos workers (OFWs), this tradition remained in their hearts.

Regardless of them being away from their family members, they would still find time to send gifts to their families. It led to the idea of a balikbayan box, a care package that OFWs send their loved ones delivered via air or sea.

Whenever there is a balik-

bayan box delivered straight to one’s home, each member of the family would eagerly open it and would in turn, anticipate what the sender wishes for them to have. Goods and gifts, with labels as to who would receive such, is what should be expected once a balikbayan box arrives.

According to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Office (PSA), the number of OFWs who worked abroad was estimated at 2.4 million. Overseas Contract Workers (OCWs) or those with existing work contracts comprised 97.1 percent of the total OFWs. With that said, it can be observed that each family or

Whenever there is a balikbayan box delivered straight to one’s home, each member of the family would eagerly open it and would in turn, anticipate what the sender wishes for them to have. Goods and gifts, with labels as to who would receive such, is what should be expected once a balikbayan box arrives.

colors and designs were also among the favorite items found inside the balikbayan boxes.

Once the said box lands in the Philippine soil and into the arms of the recipients, rest assured there will be a gathering of some sort where relatives haul whichever garments would fit them.

Shoes were also considered a common favorite. In the PhilipCanned goods are the most practical items in a balikbayan box. Since it would take long for the goods to pines, whenever someone would expire, families are able to utilize them for emergency purposes. leave home, even for a short Asked on why chocolates are while or even if it’s just a local household has at least one reladestination, they would say the considered a common prefertive or family member working common expression, “Size nine ence, one replied, “Siguro dahil overseas. As a way to express may mentality na dito sa Pilipinas ako ah, (My foot size is nine),” as their love, miles apart, they a way of hinting that they want na mas mahal ‘yung presyo ng would in turn send balikbayan shoes for pasalubong. chocolates (Maybe because boxes to their loved ones in the Canned goods are the most there is a mentality that chocoPhilippines. lates are more expensive here in practical items in a balikbayan Things loved most in a box. Since it would take long for the Philippines).” balikbayan box the goods to expire, families are Gadgets came second on Chocolates top the list of fathe list due to the increase in de- able to utilize them for emervorite balikbayan box contents, mand as technology continuous- gency purposes. with four in every five people Distance indeed cannot hinly progresses. Mobile phones, nonchalantly picking the said der one’s expression of love and personal computers, tablets, item as their personal favorite. concern. Even with something cameras etc. were the common “It’s chocolate. Lots and lots as simple as a balikbayan box, preferences of Filipinos. of it,” said Cyril Bunuan. one must still be thankful and apClothes immediately folIn a similar survey conducted lowed on the list with 63 percent preciative. After all, what matters

by Inquirer, December of last of respondents picking it among in the end is not the value of the year, chocolates along with goods in the box but the amount their top favorite goodies. candies topped the list at 67 Branded apparel in various sizes, of love it signifies. percent.

Traveling 101: Tips on getting How and where do families spend the money being sent to them more for your money

By IRIS

VICENTE

AJPRESS

By LARIZZA DE AJPRESS

VERA

ONE of the strong pillars of the Philippine economy are overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Last year, remittances propped up the country’s economic growth and hit a new record high of $2.56 billion in December. Remittances serve as the direct outcome of labor migration and the most important source of foreign exchange to the economy.

Initially, the main goal of Look into travel websites that offer searching into other companies and comparing airfares to get the lowest Last year, remittances propped up the country’s economic growth and hit a new record high of $2.56 billion in rate.

Inquirer.net photos OFWs is to maximize the great December. opportunities abroad in hopes Another expenditure of and lower their food expendiof providing a better life for their the family-receiving remittance family. However, the promise of a ture. OFW households prioritize is their allocation on savings. better a life depends on how and part of their remittances for According to data by BSP, 43.2 education (70 percent), purchase where they spend their remitpercent of Filipinos who are of consumer durables (21.9 tances. Establishing a budget that considered mostly put their percent), and purchase of house is not grounded in reality is not savings at home. These invest(11 percent), investment (6.5 really useful at all. One must live percent), and other miscellaneous ments share 43.4 percent on the within their means and prioritize remittance allocation that can expenses (4.5 percent). what is important and beneficial. help create new social assets and The expenditure of the remitIn turn, OFW remittances services like schools, health centance-receiving families is closely transferred to their families ters, roads and other community monitored by the government or recipient/s became part of projects that can be beneficial to household budgets that are spent because it reflects the general their recipient who were left in condition of the country.

In this on every family’s daily necessities the country. way, OFWs can expect a better such as increase in consumpYou don’t have to stay in hotels and be all fancy. You can always settle for amiable dorm-style places or Furthermore, a portion of return of investment because of tion of durable and nondurable hostels. Remember: you’re out for some adventures, not some glamorous sleepovers.

OFW households allotted part of the government efforts to further goods, or can also be used as and worth seeing. expensive. their remittances for debt payallow recipients to avail and savings. It can also be beneficial 4. Maximize buffet breakfast 5. Keyword: READ ments (46.5 percent). Geographispend more money on governfor people who want to start a That’s right. Not to spoil This one goes out to everycally speaking, a large portion of ment programs. At the same business. Thus, such overseas and break your “healthy” diet, one specially those who are first the OFW households in the NCR time, investments on education cashflows raise the standard of but this is because adventures time travelers. It’s not going to allocated their remittances on and nonfood expenditure can living of recipient families. are composed of long walks make you sweat if you read and impart a long-term growth on the debt payments, for purchase of Based on the Bangko Sentral and long days which consumes study prior to visiting the place food and other household needs, economy because of the higher ng Pilipinas (BSP) survey of 2016, energy. Start your day early and or country. It’s important to know recipients greatly allocate their re- probability of producing better and for investment. amplify those buffet accommothe details like transportation But in spite of their different inmittances on consumption goods. human resources for the country. dations to avoid getting hangry (public transportations of course In turn, the increase of investvestments on human and physical For instance, 97.3 percent are for (hungry+angry) plus, it’s also a cost less than cabs in many capital, only 56.1 percent of OFW food and other household needs. ment in human and physical hack to decrease expenditures places) road maps (familiarize capital aggregate domestic deon 2016 utilized their remittance However, as stated by Asia because snacks and water in yourself beforehand of the ins mand and enhances the country’s for medical expense as compared Development Bank (ADB), some places are extremely and outs of town to avoid getting families sometimes compromise capital accumulation. to last quarter’s data. lost and time inconvenience) weather (Travel light. There are places that has different weather conditions, it’s important to know which essential things to bring to avoid excess baggage which is costly), and even the culture for a handy, frugal and satisfying adventure.

While it is pleasurable to spend some time unwinding, people can always relish the finer things in life while avoiding spending too much. Tight purse OFW remittances transferred to their families or recipient/s became part of household OFW households prioritize part of their remittances for education, purchase strings+quality experience= great budgets that are spent on every family’s daily necessities such as increase in consumption of consumer durables, and purchase of house, investment, and other miscelStart your day early and amplify those buffet accommodations to avoid getting hangry (hungry+angry) plus, it’s adventures. also a hack to decrease expenditures because snacks and water in some places are extremely expensive. of durable and nondurable goods, or can also be used as savings. laneous expenses.

Inquirer.net photos IN this digital era where alluring destinations and fascinating safaris keep flooding your social media accounts, the need and hunger for travel burns deep inside the hearts of those who wants a detour from this toxic utopia that is urban life.

Whether you’re a student who has tons of paperwork to do or one of those people with jobs as stressful as the heavy traffic during rush hour, traveling has now become more of a necessity than a luxury.

Although traveling can really cost you a dime, there’s a way to get more from your money while you’re out having the best experience on your adventures.

1. Book cheap flights Be resourceful in waiting and finding cheap deals to avoid throwing out cash when you’re supposed to save up. Look into travel websites that offer searching into other companies and comparing airfares to get the lowest rate.

2. Find valuable accommodations You don’t have to stay in hotels and be all fancy. You can always settle for amiable dorm-style places or hostels.

Remember: you’re out for some adventures, not some glamorous sleepovers.

3. DIY your itinerary Yup. Do it yourself instead of availing for packaged tours which could cost more, why not plan your own day and the places you want to go. Be diligent about searching for places that are free

entertainment SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – July 14, 2017

Six ways to get your body #SummerReady

WCOPA Team Philippines 2017 individual gold, silver and bronze medalists and awardees brought home a total 205 medals, 58 gold, 99 silver and 48 bronze.

Team PH wins 205 medals at World Championships of Performing Arts Child dance prodigy Nhikzy Calma and singer Cristiani Rebada proclaimed big winners

by Klarize

Medenilla AJPress

AfTER boasting the largest pool of grand finalists, Team Philippines won the top prizes at the highly coveted 21st World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA).

Held at the Terrace Theatre in Long Beach, California from July 1-9, the talented performers of Team Philippines won 205 medals, the most of all 60 countries represented at the “Olympics of performing arts.”

Aspiring stars in entertainment compete for prestigious titles and $400,000 worth of scholarships. WCOPA gives aspiring entertainers around the world the unique opportunity to showcase their talents in front of talent scouts and industry leaders in a high-energy week-long event.

Team Philippines boasted 11 finalists — the most of all represented countries —coming into the final night of performances

Cristiani Rebada was awarded WCOPA senior grand champion vocalist performer of the world.

on friday, June 7. Stakes were high as the contestants were only allotted 60 seconds each to leave a lasting impression on the judges.

Eight-year-old dance prodigy Nhikzy Vheench Calma was a crowd favorite all week, and when he delivered his final performance, he didn’t disappoint.

He wowed the audience, as well as his rivals in his category, and impressed the judges with his dance renditions of Michael Jackson songs, including the iconic “moonwalk” from “Billie Jean.”

Nhikzy secured two major wins, Junior Champion for Dance Solo and Grand Champion Performer of the World.

The charming, young “ASAP” star thanked his fans for supporting him and for Team Philippines for trusting him to represent the team in such a big way.

“Gold Medalist, Junior Continued on Page SF4

San FranciSco

By Monet

Lu

SUMMER is here! Everybody’s heading to the beach and we all know the ‘scenery’ during beach season, don’t we?

Now don’t you go bailing on some summer fun just because you don’t feel confident wearing a swimsuit.

Besides, after your #BalikAlindog project failed (for the nth time this year), this is the best moment to get your groove back again and achieve your ultimate ‘summerbod’ goals!

I’ve rounded up six ‘realisticallyachievable’ ways to help you start: 1. If you don’t have time to work out – MAKE TIME I know this is easier said than done but you have to start if you want to have a bikini body this summer. My tip is to try working out in the morning to get your metabolism revved up for the rest of the day. Commit to a workout routine that you’re comfortable with and stick to it! Once you’ve built the habit, perform exercises that use more than one CBHQ-13659-01 CRAmuscle Asian Ad group such as squats, pushups,

rows, and lunges in a circuit to make your workouts most efficient. Again: make time for exercise, no excuses!

2. Manage your appetite for unhealthy foods by using an app This is one of the many benefits of modern technology, and I am not just talking about dyosa-transforming filters that you use when posting your selfies or Snapshot that make you look cuter when you’re a bunny or a fairy. You can now make use of your brand new iPhone7 to download a mobile app that keeps your diet on track.

A recent study in the journal Obesity found that dieters who track their progress using mobile apps drop more pounds than those who keep paper logs. The Weight Watchers mobile app (free with membership; iTunes.com) also lets you download recipes, including faves from spokeswoman Jennifer Hudson.

3. Replace unlimited-rice with more green and leafy food options I know “rice is life” but girl, you’re gonna have to make the compromise if you want to rock that tank top. Start by cutting back on processed, starchy carbohydrates such10:14 as bagels, MM.pdf 1 6/22/17 AM cookies, breads, pastas, and

crackers. Most of these foods are loaded with extra sodium and preservatives that can contribute to water retention and bloating. Instead, opt for more fresh fruits and veggies, as well as lean protein to keep you satisfied.

4. Lay low on alcohol It’s always a good idea to reduce your alcohol intake especially during summer. Not only is it advisable (for a better sober you), you will also reduce your total calorie intake and set yourself up for a better night’s sleep to energize you for your workout the next day (note: read tip no. 1 repeatedly). If you’re used to having a glass of wine or a bottle of beer every

night, try cutting back to two or three nights a week. When you do indulge, always sandwich your drink with a glass of water before and after to avoid alcohol’s dehydrating effects.

5. Keep yourself hydrated – with H2O Since we are on the subject of drinking, I might as well remind you that while drinking too much alcohol is a no-no, drinking more water is a yes-yes-yes! The best way to rid yourself of excess water weight is to flush your body with water. Skimping on water can reduce the effectiveness of your workouts because even mild dehydration can affect Continued on Page SF4

Nhikzy Calma was named WCOPA junior grand champion dancer performer of the world.

Photos by Ding Carreon and Andy Tecson

20th Anniversary of Ordination of Fr. Geoffrey Fontelera Baraan

Fr. Geoffrey with his mother, Imelda

We’re building our community, one mortgage at a time.

Get the experience, knowledge and advice you deserve.

Buying a new home can be challenging to navigate. At Comerica, our Mortgage Specialists can help you feel at home with your decision.

We’ll help you research and analyze all your options to determine the best mortgage program for you.

For more information, visit your local Comerica banking center or visit Comerica.com today.

®

RAISE YOUR EXPECTATIONS. Fr. Geoffrey Fontelera Baraan, parish priest and pastor at St. Joseph’s Church in Pinole, recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of his ordination. The celebration was attended by about 900 friends and family from all over the U.S., including from Chicago, Houston, San Diego, Bakersfield and Las Vegas. The reception and entertainment were held at the school gym.

MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY LENDER. Comerica Bank NMLS ID: 480990 Loans are subject to credit approval. Not all offers available for all mortgage transactions.

CBHQ-13659-01 06/17

SF4

celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - July 14, 2017

celebrity world

By Ferdie Villar There’s been a lot of talk going around this past week about the possibility of Kris Aquino going back to being a Kapamilya. however, based on her Instagram posts, the Queen of All Media said that she’s keeping mum while negotiations are going on.

One person who people think might know something is Kris’ colleague and close friend, TV talk show host Boy Abunda. In an interview by Push during The eddys Award, Boy said that he can’t confirm the rumors about Kris’ comeback.

“I don’t know. Kris is doing so well with her digital platform, on the way here, pinapanood ko ang ‘The Kris List,’ napakaganda. I don’t know, I really don’t know,” Boy said.

‘The Kris List’ is Kris’ lifestyle show on YouTube that is focused on the things she wants to do and features people and places.

The King of Talk also said that anything is possible, that if Kris doesn’t go back to ABsCBN, he is sure that other TV networks are more than happy to have her.

As for whether Boy wants Kris to come back to ABs-CBN, he said that he would like her “follow her heart.”

“Only Kris knows what’s best for her,” he said and added, “I will support what she does.”

Boy also reiterated that Kris “knows what she deserves and how to get there.”

“Huwag na tayong magkunwari na nagdudunungdunungan at mas marami pa tayong alam kesa sa kanya.

That girl is brilliant,” he said.

*** Actress Jessy Mendiola was on the defense when she was accused by the mother of her ex-boyfriend, actor JM de Guzman, as a liar and two-timer. she denied that she cheated that time and said that she was already single when she started dating current boyfriend Luis Manzano.

“Friends kami ni Luis dati pa, pero hindi kami ‘yung laging nagkikita. Noong time na ‘yun naging close lang kami because of that incident,” she said in an interview with PeP. The incident she was referring was a scuffle during a plane ride, involving actor enrique Gil years ago.

“May mga bagay talaga na hindi mo maku-control. Siguro caught up pa siya (JM’s mother) sa past sa mga nangyari dati. Ako, alam ko ang totoo.

Siguro ‘yun ang opinyon niya or whatever. Wala, hindi naman siya kasali sa relasyon namin, so hindi niya alam talaga ang nangyari. Naiintindihan ko naman siya. May sarili din akong nanay. Palaban din ‘yun, minsan nga pinipigilan ko na,” Jessy added.

The actress also explained that she does not go into a relationship without a “clean slate.”

“For me kasi, bago ako pumasok sa isang relasyon at papayagan ko ang isang tao na i-pursue ako, sisiguraduhin ko na clear lahat. Clean slate lahat,” Jessy said and then added, “Kumbaga, kung ano ‘yung dati, iyon ‘yun. Hindi ka dapat pumasok sa bago kung may kalabuan pa. Dapat sarado lahat.”

It could be remembered

Is Kris Aquino returning to ABS-CBN?

Vilma Santos-Recto, Star for All Seasons and now Congresswoman representing the province of Batangas, will be the recipient of the Urian Lifetime Award on Thursday, July 20.

Cristina Caseres, marketing director of Retiring America and Insurance Services is shown in photo with Les Codilla, senior marketing director of the same company during the Philippine-American Friendship Day celebration at Jack London Square in Oakland.

that Luis’ ex-girlfriend, actress Angel Locsin, did react negatively when asked how she feels about Jessy, giving the impression that the latter was a third party. Luis, on the other hand clarified that it was over between him and the former “Darna” star before he started dating Jessy.

There has been talk that the Queen of All Media Kris Aquino is going back to her former network, ABS-CBN. However, Kris has remained mum while negotiations are going on and currently still doing her digital show, “The Kris List.”

Primetime King of GMA 7 Dingdong Dantes will return for another season of the teleserye, “Alyas Robin Hood,” playing a hero to poor Filipino families.

The King of Talk Boy Abunda recently said that he cannot confirm if his colleague and good friend Kris Aquino is going back to ABS-CBN.

Actress Jessy Mendiola is on the defense after an ex-boyfriend’s mom accused her of being a liar and two-timer.

Team PH wins 205 medals...

From Page SF3

WCOPA junior and senior grand champion performers of the world with WCOPA Philippine National Director Gerry Mercado.

Grand Winner of Dance Division and the JUNIOr GrAND ChAMPION OF The WOrLD OVerALL back to back Grand ChAMPION of World Championship of Performing Arts #WCOPA #Philippines!!!!”

Nhikzy wrote in a post on Instagram. “Inaalay ko po etong Tagumpay ko sa inyong lahat mga mahal kong PILIPINO. Salamat po sa inyong lahat sa tiwala at supporta na binigay nyo sakin at sa lahat po ng tumulong at sumuporta po skin para maabot ko po etong napakagandang pangarap.”

Toward the tail-end of the night, singer Cristiani rebada delivered a powerful vocal performance, impressing the audience and the judges with his vocal range. rebada secured

Kapamilya star Nadine Lustre topped FHM Magazine’s list as the sexiest woman in the Philippines.

Team Philippines’ second Grand Champion Performer of the World honor for the second year in a row; last year, the allmale dance troupe Junior New system took home the most prestigious award.

In addition to the major awards won by Nhikzy and rebada, vocalist hannah Korin Castillo nabbed the Junior Grand Champion Vocalist of the World award. On the final two days of the competition, Team Philippines also garnered a whopping 205 medals: 58 gold, 99 silver and 48 bronze.

The team also won 22 division plaques and seven industry awards. Delegates from Team Philippines were also rewarded with sought-after scholarships from Indasoul records, shelly

sondheim, Millennium Dance and New York Film Academy.

The team was once again under the leadership of national director Jerry Mercado, who oversaw the scouting and audition process for Team Philippines. For the second year in a row, he earned this year’s award for Outstanding National Director. his daughter, Abby Mercado, acts as the executive assistant to the director and expressed pride at seeing how many Filipino artists get the opportunity to showcase their artistry on a world stage.

“It makes me so proud to see Filipino talent being exposed to the world and for all these performers to show the world how talented the Filipino people are and how beautiful they are,” Abby Mercado told the Asian Journal, noting the variety of talent present in this year’s team. “It makes me want to beam with pride that there are so many Filipinos who are given the chance to showcase their talent and to also prove to themselves that they are good at what they do.”

Performers from Team Philippines hail from all over the country, but Davao City boasted the most medalists with 23 total acts winning medals.

WCOPA is held annually in Long Beach and seeks to find the next stars in entertainment of every age in acting, singing, dancing modeling, instrumentals and variety categories. Competitors are given 60 seconds to showcase their talents in front of a panel of celebrity judges from all areas of entertainment.

Members of Team Philippines are this year’s grand final winners and grand champion performers of the world at WCOPA 2017.

Six ways to get your body...

From Page SF3 your performance and fat-burning potential. You should drink at least half your body weight in ounces each day (e.g., a 150pound woman should drink 75 oz. or the equivalent of about four and a half 16.9 oz. bottled waters a day).

6. Get more snooze time. research says that sleep deprivation is one of the major causes of obesity. That in mind, you should reconsider the time you put into putting yourself to

sleep – the longer the better.

Getting a good night’s sleep is an important part of shedding those extra pounds, so be sure you are getting 7-9 hours of sleep. summer is such an exciting season. And with such a high- energy season, comes (an even) higher demand to make sure our bodies are summerready and in tip-top shape. I hope these six steps would help flaunt your body confidently in front of your friends and family. It’s never too late to

get fit and fab! *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

SF5 entertainment 9-year-old Fil-Am surprises audience at ‘America’s Got Talent’ Vilma Santos, Paolo Ballesteros lead this year’s winners at Eddy Awards The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - July 14, 2017

by Larizza de Vera AJPress

AS soon as she began singing the first words of Andra Day’s song “Rise Up,” nineyear-old Angelica Hale stirred the venue’s atmosphere. It only took a few seconds for the charming little girl from Atlanta to win the judges’ approval and the world’s applause with her powerful voice.

“I want to be the next Whitney Houston. I want to be a superstar,” Angelica Hale told “America’s Got Talent” judges Simon Cowell, Mel B. Howie Mandel and Heidi Klum.

These were the words that resonated in her audition at “America’s Got Talent” as she tried to conquer the first segment and secure a spot in the competition.

Full of passion and aspiration for singing, Angelica joined America’s biggest talent competition to inspire and let her voice be heard around the world.

“I absolutely love singing and it is my passion. I thought that the big stage of ‘America’s Got Talent’ was a wonderful place to allow my singing to be heard around the world,” Angelica told the Asian Journal.

Angelica decided to pursue her dream at a young age because she realized early that life is not to be taken for granted.

Moreover, she had already lived a lifetime even before she finished kindergarten.

“I went through really difficult times, but now I get to use my voice and share my inspirational story with people all over the world, and that makes me feel better than ever,” Angelica shared.

At the age of four, she contracted an aggressive strep bacterium in her lungs that eventually led to kidney failure.

Despite her situation, she still pursued her singing career.

She joined her first competition when she was five and continued to attend voice lessons with her vocal coach Tricia Grey

by MaridoL

ranoa-BisMark Philstar.com

Angelica Hale

in between therapies.

“I want my fans to know that they should never give up and always believe that dreams can come true,” Angelica said.

The daughter of James Hale and Eva Bolando, Angelica continues to latch onto her dream in spite of her limit and new lease in life.

“I knew that my life story couldn’t end here and that this was only the beginning. There was still so much I wanted to accomplish and experience in my life,” she shared.

The little angel was not wrong. She deflected all adversity on Friday the 13th of September, 2013 as she successfully went out of the operating room with a newly functioning kidney donated by her mother.

“My family supports me so much and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. They believe in my dreams to be a singer and superstar and are always there to support me if I’m having trouble. Because of them, I can pursue and develop my passion for singing. They always encourage me to bring my singing to

VIlMA Santos and Paolo Ballesteros won Best Actress and Best Actor respectively at the 1st Eddy Awards last Saturday, July 8 at the Kia Theater in Cubao, Quezon City.

Vilma won for “Everything About Her,” while Paolo was recognized for “Die Beautiful.” lav Diaz added another feather in his cap by winning Best Director for “Ang Babaeng Humayo.”

Angel locsin and John lloyd Cruz, on the other hand, were named Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Photo courtesy of NBC Actor for “Everything About the next level but to also have Her” and “Ang Babaeng Humayo,” respectively. fun,” she added.

The late Jake Tordesillas, a As of today, Angelica is one of the finalists and is still in multi-awarded movie scriptwriter, was given a posthuthe running in “America’s Got mous award.

Talent.”

The Eddys is organized “I’m preparing for my by the Society of Philipnext ‘AGT’ performances by pine Entertainment Editors, practicing and working hard composed of entertainment every day. I am always tryeditors of broadsheets and ing to make the songs even better than they were before,” tabloids nationwide.

The complete list of Angelica enthused.

“I realized that you need to awards: Best Picture: “Ang Batreat every day like it’s the last baeng Humayo” day of your life and to never Best Director: lav Diaz take things for granted. No Best Actress: Vilma Sanmatter how bad things may tos seem, they could always be Best Actor: Paolo Ballesworse,” she said. teros Angelica hopes to visit her Best Supporting fans from all around the world Actress: Angel locsin especially her mother’s homeBest Supporting town in Iligan City, Mindanao.

Actor: John lloyd Cruz “I think traveling to new Best places is very exciting and I hope that my singing will allow Documentary: “Sunday me to meet people all over the Beauty Queen” Best Musical world,” she said.

The little Fil-Am singer may Score: “Everything About Her” - Emerson Tecson not have been to the PhilipBest Sound: “Seklusyon” pines but she sure does caplamberto Casas tured her kababayans’ hearts Best Theme with her charming personality Song: “Saving Sally” and positive outlook in life.

Regal’s Mother Lily Monteverde was presented the Producer of the Year Award. Beside her is Manila Standard Entertainment Editor Isah Red.

Jodi Sta. Maria and Cristine Reyes presented an award at the first Eddys.

Elmo Magalona and Janella Salvador, also known as Elnella, presented an award at the first The Eddys.

Best Visual Effects: “Seklusyon” Best Editing: “Die Beautiful” Best Production Design: “Die Beautiful” Best Cinematography: “Se klusyon” Best Screenplay: “Every-

thing About Her” Manny Pichel Award: lav Diaz Producer of the Year: Regal Entertainment’s Mother lily Monteverde Joe Quirino Award: Boy Abunda

SF6

T he Asian Jo ur na l SF M A G A Z I NE - J ul y 14, 2 0 1 7

seafood city fpfc roger