San Francisco Edition -- March 11 -- 17, 2016 by Asian Journal Community Newspapers

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Volume 15 - No. 11 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

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Net worth vs P6.7-B pol ads bill: Top bets in debt, deficit spending?

USA

DATELINE Las Vegas mom sentenced to life without parole for husband’s murder from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

22 aspiring to be senators, and few dozen local and party-list hopefuls have acquired a record P6.69 billion worth of pre-campaign political ads, mostly on television, and some on radio and the newspapers. three wannabe presidents — manuel ‘mar’ roxas II of the Liberal Party (LP), Jejomar ‘Jojo’ Binay of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), and Grace Poe of the Galing at Puso (GP) slate — had even made it to the billion-peso club of ad spenders ahead of the official 90-day campaign period that started on feb. 9, 2016. According to Nielsen media’s monitoring reports, as of Jan. 31, 2016 and by the rate card of media agencies, the political ads featuring these three as “advertiser” and “product” had reached the billionth mark: P1,050,065,096 for Binay, P1,016,414,123 Mar Roxas, Jejomar Binay and Grace Poe for Poe; and P969,173,267 for roxas. n

by Malou

Mangahas Philstar.com

A LAs VeGAs mother of four was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on thursday, march 3, for plotting to have her husband killed in order to collect his life insurance. michelle Antwanette Paet, 34, — who is of filipino descent, a source told the Asian Journal — pled guilty to conspiracy to commit murder and first-degree murder with use of a deadly weapon back in october, which took the death penalty option off the table. she had revealed that she and her then-boyfriend, michael rudolph rodriguez, planned to murder her husband Nathan Paet, who was a Us Air force service member and Iraq War veteran. michelle and Nathan Paet were high school sweethearts and got married in 2006, a source told the Asian Journal. “I made a huge mistake and a really bad

mANILA — Can we trust them with the public purse? At the rate they are splurging billions of pesos on political ads, with nothing or little to show in their asset records as their own spending capacity, the candidates for president and vice president in the may 2016 elections are possibly the least smart among us when it comes to math and money. In truth, if they have been dipping into their pockets for pesos for their ads, nearly all of them would now be in grave deficit spending status. or even in the throes of bankruptcy. Altogether, four of the five seeking the presidency, six seeking the vice presidency,

SC allows Poe to run for president

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Homeland Security launches employer pilot program

the Us Department of homeland security (Dhs) announced the launch of a Known employer pilot program on thursday, march 3, assessing a new process for employers who seek to hire workers through employmentbased visa categories. modifying the process Us Citizenship and Immigration services (UsCIs) already uses to review an employer’s eligibility to sponsor individuals (under certain employment-based immigrant and non-immigrant classifications), the Known employer pilot is expected to streamline paperwork, reduce costs and delays in the processing of these benefit requests. According to a release from the Dhs press office, UsCIs will oversee the pilot program, in collaboration with the Dhs office of Policy,

SC ORDERS VOTER RECEIPTS. Workers unload printed ballots at a warehouse in Marikina. The Comelec transferred 1.7 million official ballots from the National Printing Office to the warehouse, from where they will be forwarded to various regions for the elections. On Tuesday, March 8, the Supreme Court voted 14-0 in favor of the Bagumbayan-Gordon petition. The high tribunal mandated the activation of Voter Verification Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) features in the vote counting machines to assure the credibility of the elections. Photo by Michael Varcas / Philstar.com

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Aquino to SC: Clarify USAID picks PH for growth program rules on citizenship by Michael Joe

T. Delizo

on Wednesday, march 9. she added that the country has seen growth in the past years and the agency the United states Agency for In- only needs to address manila’s “conternational Development (UsAID) has straints” to help its economy even move picked the Philippines as the only Asian faster. country for its Partnership for Growth “We chose the Philippines because (PfG) project. this is the only country [in Asia] that is PfG is a White house signature ini- doing well. the people, the government, tiative through which the Us and the as well as the private and academic Philippine governments work together sectors are committed for the developto improve economic growth and devel- ment,” Brems said. opment in manila. Among the major constraints in the “the Philippines is very, very special Philippines’ development that she citin the eyes of the United states,” Dr. su- ed were weak governance, regulatory san Brems, mission director of UsAID environment, fiscal space and human Philippines, said in a Kapihan session u PAGE A2 ManilaTimes.net

by caTherine

s. ValenTe ManilaTimes.net

ferNANDo AIr BAse, Batangas — President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday, march 9, asked supreme Court (sC) justices to clarify the country’s laws on citizenship after it ruled that sen. Grace Poe is qualified to run for President. one of the requirements for presidential candidates is that they should be natural-born filipino citizens. “Sana yung Korte Suprema dito sa kanilang desisyon ay magbigay ng todong kalinawan o paglilinaw sa sambayanan in their role as educator as far as the law is concerned [I hope that the supreme Court, as educator, would explain its decision to the people in legal terms],” Aquino told reporters in an interview. “Para maging klarung-klaro sa lahat ng ating mamamayan kung ano ba talaga ang alituntunin sa pagiging citizen or non-citizen

mANILA — the supreme Court on tuesday, march 8, decided to allow sen. Grace Poe to run for president in the may 9 elections. Voting 9-6, the high court ruled that the presidential aspirant has met the requirements to run for the country’s top government post. sC Public Information office Chief theodore te said the nine magistrates who voted in favor of Poe include Chief Justice ma. Lourdes sereno, SC Public Information Office Chief Associate Justices Theodore Te Inquirer.net photo Presbitero Velasco, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin, Jose Perez, Jose mendoza, marvic Leonen, Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, and francis Jardeleza. on the other hand, te said the six justices who upheld Poe’s disqualification and denied the consolidated petitions were Associate Justices Antonio Carpio, teresita De Castro, Arturo Brion, mariano Del Castillo, Bienvenido reyes and estela Perlas-Bernabe. te clarified that although Brion is on leave, he already submitted his vote on the case to the sC en banc. the sC spokesperson said nothing else has been authorized to be released since the full ruling is still to be released in the coming days. the high court held separate deliberations on the citizenship and residency issues against Poe after holding five days of oral arguments on the case. the Commission on elections (Comelec) earlier disqualified Poe from the presidential race due to citizenship and residency issues. the tribunal, however, issued a temporary restraining order against the Comelec ruling which was issued in December 2015. n

Comelec sees election delay

ceipts. Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista on Wednesday, march 9, said the sC ruling turned the the Commission on elections election timeline upside down. President Benigno Aquino III (Comelec) is no longer certain if “We have no problem on the ng ating bansa [for the people the national and local elections printing of ballots. It will be finto clearly know the requirements will be held as scheduled on may ished as scheduled on April 25. for one to be a citizen and the 9, 2016 because of the supreme But with this new development, bases for one to be called a non- Court (sC) order that the com- I can’t assure anything with reu PAGE A2 mission should issue voting reu PAGE A2 by WilliaM

B. Depasupil anD JaiMe r. pilapil ManilaTimes.net

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MARCH 11-17, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

From the Front Page

Aquino to SC: Clarify rules on…

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running for President in the May dacy. citizen],” he said. “Gaano katagal? Hindi natin 2016 elections. The President added that the The poll body, in its unani- masabi ‘yan [For how long? We tribunal should clarify how Poe mous decision, said Poe is not a can’t say],” the President said. reacquired her Filipino citizen- natural-born citizen and she also Poe, who is running as an inship. failed to meet the 10-year resi- dependent candidate, has conShe supposedly visited a con- dency requirement imposed by sistently topped presidential sursular office in 2011 to renounce law on presidential candidates. veys. her citizenship when she was alBut Aquino said he will not The high tribunal is yet to ready the chairman of the Movie come up with a ruling that will worry about the effects of the SC and Television Review and Clas- explain how majority of the jus- decision, noting that they are besification Board. tices came to their decision that yond his control. The High Court, voting 9-6, Poe, a foundling, is a naturalHe noted the independence on Tuesday, March 8, reversed born Filipino. of the High Court, as four of his a decision of the Commission on Aquino admitted that the SC six appointees voted in Poe’s Elections to disqualify Poe from decision will boost Poe’s candi- favor. n

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Comelec sees election…

spect to the elections. But we will come [up] with a more studied position,” Bautista added. “Under present conditions, it would be really hard for the Comelec [to stick to the original timeline],” he said, citing the complications and effects of the SC decision. Commissioner Arthur Lim admitted that the SC ruling will derail the elections. Lim said the commission will have to make “critical decisions” in the coming days. Bautista, however, expressed hopes that the Comelec can still convince the High Court to reverse its order for the poll body to activate the voters verification paper audit trail (VVPAT), a security feature that allows voters to check if their votes were entered. He also could not say if the ruling will also affect the start of the overseas absentee voting on April 9. On Wednesday, the Comelec called an emergency meeting

with Smartmatic and other election stakeholders to discuss the impact of the court decision. Bautista said the Comelec is not against the VVPAT but he scored the SC for issuing its order too close to the elections. “Why come [up] with [the] decision 62 days before the elections? Why not, say six months before?” he added. The Comelec chief said the commission was surprised because the High Court reversed its ruling on the Roque vs. Comelec case issued in 2009 wherein the tribunal said the ballot is already a paper audit trail. “The Comelec was not told by the Supreme Court to issue a receipt during the 2010 and 2013 elections even as the [counting] machine is capable of issuing a receipt,” Bautista said. He added that they will make their course of action final, including filing of a motion for reconsideration, during a special en banc meeting today. “We believe that the justices may not have read the comment

filed by the Office of the Solicitor General [OSG] on our behalf explaining the Comelec’s decision on the non-reactivation of the voters verification paper audit trail [VVPAT],” Bautista said. He added that Comelec officials are willing to argue their case before the SC so that the justices would be made aware of the practical, technical and operational difficulties in holding an election. “Unlike in the case of Senator Grace Poe [that] only dwells on the legal aspect, the issuance of receipt [has] operational, practical and technical considerations, which we hope the Supreme Court will give due deference on the decision of the Comelec not to issue voting receipts,” Bautista said. The Comelec, according to him, will have to reconfigure the 92,500 secure digital (SD) cards because the counting machines have not been configured to produce the voting receipts. The commission will also need to acquire additional thermal paper and more than 92,500 receipt receptacles as well as retrain the more than 277,000 teachers who will serve as members of the Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs) on election day. Find solutions Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. also on Wednesday said instead of complaining, the Comelec should immediately start preparations to comply with the SC ruling. “The High Court has spoken and the Comelec must comply. No matter how the Comelec feels about it, the body should immediately begin preparations in

PARTIAL ECLIPSE. A partial solar eclipse is seen from Rizal Park in Manila. The eclipse was seen in other Asian countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon gets between Earth and the sun, and the moon casts a shadow over Earth. Photo by Russell Palma / Manilatimes.net

Las Vegas mom sentenced to life without…

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choice and I’m truly sorry,” Michelle Paet tearfully said in court on Thursday, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The murder occurred back in December 2010, prosecutors detailed, when Rodriguez waited outside the Paet residence and was signaled by a text message that Nathan Paet was getting ready to leave for work at Nellis Air Force Base. Rodriguez and an accomplice, Corey Hawkins, confronted Nathan Paet and shot him five times in the back. He reportedly collapsed in front of his wife and their four children, before he was pronounced dead at a nearby

hospital. Michelle Paet revealed that the murder plot was conspired to collect $650,000 in life insurance — $400,000 from the military and $250,000 from her husband’s insurance policy. She and Rodriguez met and entered a relationship while working at a telemarketing company in Las Vegas. The murder plot was planned over the course of six months, prosecutors said. “She sits before you as she has before other men, crying and kind of the perfect picture of femininity and vulnerability, looking like a victim,” Chief Deputy District Attorney Michelle Fleck said. “What you see is not

what you get.” Rodriguez was separately found guilty last year for his part in the murder. The Paets’ four children currently live in Guam with relatives and are reportedly afraid of their mother. “They are afraid that if she can do this to their father, she may be capable of doing this to them,” Nathan Paet’s mother Carmelita said. Michelle Paet, addressing the judge and her murdered husband’s relatives, sought forgiveness. “I hope and pray that one day each and every one of them will find it in their hearts to truly forgive me,” she said. (Christina M. Oriel / AJPress)

Homeland Security launches employer pilot…

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US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the US Department of State (DOS). “Last year, DHS announced it would explore a Known Employer pilot to modernize and streamline the process for U.S. employers seeking to employ certain foreign workers,” said USCIS Director León Rodríguez. “Today, we’re partnering with a select group of representative organizations across a variety of inu PAGE A3 dustries to determine how we can

improve efficiency and cut costs. If successful, we will continue to build on this trial program and promote robust trade, travel, and economic prosperity.” DHS first announced in January 2015 that it would explore a Known Employer pilot program, under the United States-Canada Beyond the Border initiative. The pilot also was highlighted as a recommendation in a report from federal agencies, “Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the

21st Century,” that was submitted to the President in July 2015. The Known Employer pilot aims to make the employment eligibility adjudication process more efficient, while reducing delays for businesses and employers who wish to employ foreign workers under certain immigrant and non-immigrant visa programs. Goals of the program include: reducing the amount of paperwork filed by employers and

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USAID picks… PAGE A1 t

capital. In line with this, the USAID granted a P1.5-billion fund for Stride (Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Development) program. The fund was seen as a key in strengthening the regulatory capability of the government while providing governance and capacity building training for universities in planning, financial management, patents and networking. Stride is a five-year program started in July 2013, under the PFG project. “Stride aims to spur inclusive economic growth by boosting science and technology research,” said Dr. Dave Hall, the program’s chief of party. As of last month, the program has awarded P144.8 million in research grants to 34 universities around the country to conduct science and technology innovation research. It has also awarded 31 scholarships to Filipinos who will study in US universities. “What we want is to have an economic growth that can benefit everyone,” Brems said. n

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Dateline USa

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • MARCH 11-17, 2016

US woman gets Zika after Philippine visit by Mayen JayMalin Philstar.com

Pilipino Workers Center members show support for the passage of SB 1015.

AJPress photo by Allyson Escobar

California ethnic communities rally for domestic workers’ rights

POMONA, Calif. — Filipino and Hispanic community members rallied at the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center on Friday, March 4 to launch the campaign for Senate Bill 1015, aimed at protecting the dignity and rights of domestic workers and families. Senator Connie M. Leyva (DChino), who championed the bill, joined with community members, activists, leaders, and civil rights organizations in support of the law. SB 1015 builds upon Assembly Bill 241, the California Bill of Rights, which was signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown in 2013 and grants overtime protections to California’s privately hired domestic workers, improving their quality of life. SB 1015 builds on that bill’s success by removing the “sunset provision” that designates January 1, 2017, as when the law expires and will no longer be in effect (unless reinstated or extended). Leyva’s SB 1015 will make the law permanent. “After a long week in Sacramento, I am so happy to be here. To our domestic workers, thank you for what you do every day,” Leyva said in her remarks. “After all of your hard work, you passed AB 241, and it was a great victory. When the California Domestic Workers Coalition came to me and asked if I would make a bill that would do away with the sunset provision, I could not have been more excited and more honored.” “This [bill] is about dignity, it’s about respect; it’s about the value of hard work. This is a discriminatory issue, because most of our domestic workers are women,” she continued, looking at the women in the crowd. “When you’re not paid overtime, we’ve saying that we don’t value your work. And you take care of our most important people--our

children, our disabled community, and our parents, who can’t care for themselves.” The 1930s brought a change of labor laws to the US. However, domestic workers--caregivers, housekeepers, butlers, nannies, maids, assistant “hired help” employees, etc.--were excluded from the rights and protections promised to them, and their work was not valued as “real work.” In 2005, the California Domestic Workers Coalition was formed by multiple grassroots organizations, as a “statewide network ensuring that statewide laws and agencies protect domestic workers from abuse, and uphold the dignity of domestic work.” Some of these organizations include the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC), Filipino Advocates for Justice and the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA). According to the Coalition, many of California’s families, elderly, and people with disabilities rely on the support and care of over 300,000 domestic workers. Los Angeles County has the state’s highest concentration of domestic workers, with over 122,400 people employed in the industry. “I am very confident with all of your help, with the California [Domestic Workers] Coalition, we are going to make this happen,” Leyva continued. “It’s going to be a permanent law, and then we’ll have even more work to do.” Members of CHIRLA and PWC, employees and their families, were present to show their support. Domestic workers told stories about their experiences as in-home care assistants, oftentimes facing abusive and severely overworked/underpaid conditions. “For almost two years, my employer abused me and pulled

Homeland Security launches…

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retained by USCIS; promoting consistency in the adjudication of employment-based petitions and applications; streamlining the adjudicative process to achieve greater efficiency within USCIS; and providing greater support to CBP and DOS in support of greater efficiency and consistency at ports of entry and consular posts. Under the Known Employer pilot, up to nine pre-selected employers can file applications requesting that USCIS predetermine that they meet the requirements relating to certain immigrant and non-immigrant visa classifications. When making this request, employers will create a profile in the Web-based Known Employer Document Library (KEDL), and can upload documents relating to the requirements. USCIS officers will swiftly re-

view and predetermine whether a prospective employer has met certain requirements relating to the visa classifications. If the predetermination request is approved, the employer may then file petitions or applications for individual employees, without needing to resubmit company information with each petition or application. According to the process, employers will not be charged any additional fees to participate in the Known Employer pilot, which is scheduled to last for up to one year. The DHS reports that USCIS may terminate or extend the pilot at any time. DHS and DOS will solicit ongoing feedback on the program from its participants. More information and a list of participating employers can be found on the Known Employer pilot page. (Allyson Escobar / AJPress)

Comelec sees election…

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accordance with the ruling,” he added. “The Comelec should look at possible solutions,” the Ilocano senator said. While the SC decision may have presented more difficulties to the poll body, according to him, these considerations “pale in comparison with the imperative to have honest and credible elections.” “With ballot receipts, our voters would have some degree of confidence that the voting machines indeed counted their votes properly,” the senator explained. Given the limited time available before the May 9 elections, Marcos said the Comelec should immediately reconfigure the vote counting machines, obtain the necessary supplies and address other logistical problems to comply with the SC ruling. Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero said the Comelec cannot postpone the elections in May. “He [Bautista] cannot legally do that. The Constitution specifies that the day of the elections

is every second Monday of May,” Escudero pointed out. The senator said neither the poll body nor Congress has the power to postpone the elections, the more the Comelec should start making the necessary preparations to activate the VVPAT. “They should just comply with the order of the Supreme Court instead of making excuses. They should stop wasting time,” Escudero added. Senator Grace Poe said the Comelec should stop issuing threats of poll postponement. The presidential aspirant said she understands that the SC ruling put pressure on Bautista but he has no choice but to comply with the SC order. Valenzuela City (Metro Manila) Mayor Rex Gatchalian, Poe’s spokesman, also on Wednesday said postponing the May 2016 elections is unacceptable. “Holding the elections on a later date will damage our democracy, confuse the electorate and tarnish the integrity of the elections,” he said. (With Jefferson Antiporda)

my chain,” said Teresita Villasenor, a Filipina member of PWC and caregiver for 45 years. “I worked like a horse for 84 hours in a week, without any break, and was paid about $100 a day. I did not know that domestic workers like me are excluded in labor laws, and my case was dismissed.” “Last year, I joined [Pilipino Workers Center] and learned about AB 241, that I have rights, that there are laws to protect me and treat me fairly,” Villasenor added. “Now, I am one of the thousands of caregivers in Cali-

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MANILA — An American woman who stayed in the Philippines for four weeks earlier this year was diagnosed with Zika virus upon her return to the United States, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Tuesday, March 8. Health Secretary Janette Garin said the woman visited the Philippines last January and was later confirmed positive for the virus. “We were informed that shortly after returning home to the US, an evidence of Zika virus infection was detected in the patient,” Garin said. The patient was not pregnant when she contracted the virus. Garin said the DOH is coordinating with the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for the profile of the patient and to find out the places she visited in the Philippines. Although there is no vaccine against the virus, medical experts said the symptoms of Zika could be treated with common pain and fever medicines, rest, and plenty of water intake. The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM), Garin said, is capable of testing suspected cases of Zika virus through Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT PCR). Zika viral disease is characterized by fever, rash, conjunctivitis, joint pain, muscle pain, headache and vomiting. Although most infected individuals are asymptomatic or do not manifest any symptoms, Garin said patients still have the capability of transmitting the infection. Zika virus is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito, the same mosquito that transmits dengue and chikungunya. There were also reports that the virus could be transmitted through sexual contact and blood transfusion. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are 55 countries and territories that have reported local Zika transmission from January 2007 to March 3. The DOH said Zika infection is self-limiting most

Health Secretary Janette Garin said the woman visited the Philippines last January and was later confirmed positive for the virus. Philstar. com file photo

of the time but its effect on pregnancies could not be discounted. Zika virus has been linked to congenital CNS malformation like microcephaly. The DOH had advised pregnant women to avoid mosquito bites especially during daytime and for those suffering from fever, rash, and conjunctivitis to consult a doctor immediately. A case of Zika virus was documented in Cebu City in 2012 but no other case has since been reported. Government health experts said the best way to fight Zika virus is to observe personal hygiene and sanitation as well as eliminate possible breeding sites of mosquitoes. Garin assured the people that there is no Zika virus epidemic in the country and there is no reason to panic. She further noted that the DOH has 2,000 testing kits and testing centers available nationwide to verify if a person is afflicted with Zika. “In previous years, Zika virus infection was documented in the Philippines and the patient had no history of traveling outside the country which means it was acquired locally. But it does not means there is a cause for panic,” Garin pointed out. n

MARCH 11-17, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

Families of San Bernardino victims side with FBI by Allyson

EscobAr

AJPress

THE battle between Silicon Valley-based tech industry giant Apple and federal law enforcement over access to encrypted cell phone data has continued, with privacy concerns against an investigation over national security as the hot topic. The dispute has sparked a nationwide debate, and has garnered the attention of the families of the victims of the San Bernardino, California — 14 of whom were killed last December when two radicalized shooters entered the Inland Regional Center and fired dozens of rounds, before being gunned down later near their Redlands home by FBI. The FBI has requested—by a court order, on the basis of the All Writs Act—that Apple should help agents by unlocking encrypted data on an iPhone 5c that belonged to one of the shooters, USS CHARLOTTE IN SUBIC. The USS Charlotte (SSN-766), a Los-Angeles-class submarine, docks at the Alava Pier inside the Subic Bay Syed Rizwan Farook. Freeport. It arrived on Wednesday, March 9, for a port visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment. The submarine is on a six-month Apple swiftly and publicly opdeployment to the US 7th Fleet area of operations. Photo by Allan Macatuno / Inquirer.net posed the judge’s court order, arguing that it was fighting for “the privacy of millions of innocent people,” reported the Los Angeles Times. Apple won a battle round when a New York judge presiding over a It was supported by many health there would be no increases to similar case ruled against federal by AgnEs constAntE insurers, including Anthem and any citizens of California? No,” prosecutors seeking Apple’s help AJPress said Sen. Jeff Stone (R-Riverside). unlocking a phone belonging to a Blue Shield. CALIFORNIA Gov. Jerry Brown “The proposal provides a stable “The bottom line is the consumer drug dealer. US Magistrate Judge James Orenstein said that the All on Tuesday, March 1, signed into ongoing funding source for Medi- will get hurt with this bill.” law three bills designed to avoid a Cal,” said Sen. Ed Hernandez (DBefore the new tax goes into Writs Act does not grant the pow$1.1-billion cutoff in federal fund- West Covina), who led the effort to effect, it requires approval from er the government seeks. The families of the 14 victims ing for Medi-Cal, which provides pass the bill. “It allows California the Obama administration, health insurance coverage to to maximize its share of existing which state officials are optimisnearly one-third of Californians. federal dollars, and we’re always tic about. The state’s current tax, which complaining that we don’t get our It took months of negotiations would have expired on July 1, ap- fair share. It will not negatively before the state senate and as- PAGE A3 t fornia who are enjoying overplies to only 26 plans that accept impact premiums.” sembly came to the final deal. Medi-Cal patients. Revenue colTo secure Republican support, time benefits and allowance. I Bipartisan support was relected from these plans is used quired for the new tax, including the package included several have more time for my family, to fund the program. The new at least one Republican vote in components, such as allocating for my floral design program, tax meets a federal government the Senate and three GOP votes additional funding for Califor- and I enjoy the company of my demand that the an extension of in the Assembly. nians with developmental dis- new employer. My patients and the levy must apply to all manThough Republicans are typi- abilities and forgiving a budget I enjoy doing creative art and aged care organizations so that cally tax-averse, the new tax debt owed by skilled-nursing activities together. I got my life back!” the state can receive matching received support from two GOP facilities. Emily Uy, a member of PWC federal funds for the health care members in the Senate and 11 Both chambers also unaniprogram. in the Assembly. Democrats mously approved on Monday a and a personal attended, shared “Democrats and Republicans unanimously voted in favor of separate measure that allocates that she worked as a live-in home came together today to do what’s the measure. about $300 million to services care worker who was on call for best for California,” Brown said “Collectively, we came up with for about 300,000 developmen- 24 hours a day. Her salary, howin a statement after the state something that’s really good,” tally disabled Californians. It ever, did not match the long legislature approved the bills. said Assemblyman Brian Maien- boosts wages for staff at regional hours she worked. “[It] was so little I could hardly “This legislation will save money schein (R-San Diego). centers and provides additional and help millions of people with However, some Republicans money for independent-living make both ends meet,” she said. “With the passing of AB 241, I health care and disability ser- who voted against the plan are programs. This bill also vices.” The third bill approved pro- had more breathing room and concerned that the replacement The new plan includes tax off- tax will unavoidably be passed vides about $240 million to pre- felt less worry and like my digsets to minimize the impact on on to consumers. fund retiree health care for pub- nity was restored.” Domestic work is essential to health plans that could poten“Is there anything written in lic workers and pay back a $173 the dignity of both workers’ and tially be absorbed by consumers. this bill that would codify the fact million transportation loan. n

Gov. Brown approves health care package that secures federal funding for Medi-Cal

are now speaking out, deeply hurt and affected by this dispute. Mark Sandefur, the father of Larry Daniel Kaufman who was killed in the terror attack, wrote a letter released by an attorney that represents several relatives of the victims. “Recovery of information from the iPhone in question may not lead to anything new. But, what if there is evidence pointing to a third shooter? What if it leads to an unknown terrorist cell?” Sandefur wrote to Apple’s chief executive, Tim Cook. “What if others are attacked, and you and I did nothing to prevent it?” Another family member of a San Bernardino victim also spoke out—Salihin Kondoker, whose wife was wounded. Kondoker said he supported the company’s position to protect consumers’ privacy, and also believed it was unlikely Farook’s phone contains valuable information. “Neither I, nor my wife, want to raise our children in a world where privacy is the trade-off for security,” Kondoker said in a letter to a federal judge, posted on Apple’s website. Dozens of groups have filed papers in federal court, seeking to have their arguments placed on record in the legal fight. Leading tech companies—including Google, Facebook, Snapchat, Microsoft, and Twitter— have supported Apple’s position, arguing that ordering the company to write new software to help give the FBI access to encrypted data on the locked iPhone would

“ultimately endanger the privacy rights of customers worldwide.” “We believe the issues raised by the Apple case are too important to rely on a narrow statute from a different technological era to fill the government’s perceived gap in current law,” wrote Microsoft President Brad Smith, targeting the centuries-old All Writs Act. “Instead, we should look to Congress to strike the balance needed for 21st Century technology.” Law enforcement unions, as well as the San Bernardino County district attorney’s office, supported the FBI’s argument, contending that Apple is wrong to turn a fight over a search warrant into a larger legal battle over privacy rights. “Law enforcement is not now asking this Court to compel the ‘locksmith’ to give them a master key to unlock all locks built by this locksmith,” a filing on behalf of unions representing California’s sheriffs, police and officers read. “This case is not about a single phone—it’s about the government’s authority to turn the tech companies against their users,” said the American Civil Liberties Union in a statement. The ACLU argued that the government does not have the power to compel Apple to help unlock the encryption on Farook’s phone, which FBI agents believe has a security feature that destroys access to the encrypted data after 10 failed attempts to enter the right code. n

California ethnic communities rally… employers’ families, yet their fair compensation is being challenged by the ‘sun-setting’ of current domestic workers’ rights law, said the CA Domestic Workers Coalition. “Having labor protections feels like a win-win situation for everyone because my employer can enjoy truly loving and quality support coming from a care worker who has dignity and respect,” Uy added. Workers at the rally called for the passage of Leyva’s SB 1015, to ensure that domestic work remains recognized, protected, and celebrated to improve the quality of life. “This is another step forward for immigrant workers, for Filipinos, and for women workers as well, because we are taking another step towards really making our rights permanent.

It starts with people, word-ofmouth awareness, education and visibility. We are at a new level now,” said Aqui Soriano Versoza, executive director of PWC. PWC provides a multilingual hotline service, workforce and skills training, leadership development, know-your-rights and labor cases workshops for immigrant employees. “Filipinos have been some of the most courageous coming out, speaking and reaching out to families who want to improve the rights and lives of domestic workers,” she added. “We are building momentum. Immigrant workers know that the work they are doing is important, and that they are deserving of rights. This has been a huge victory for our community.” (Allyson Escobar / AJPress)

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • mARCh 11-17, 2016

Dateline PhiliPPines

Malacañang: No IS threat in PH by DeLon

PorcaLLa anD HeLen FLores Philstar.com

MANILA—Malacañang reiterated that there is no link between a local Muslim rebel group in Mindanao and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria despite the claim of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that ISIS is recruiting members. Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the Palace is standing by the statement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that there is no ISIS presence in Mindanao despite recent incidents of violence in the region. The AFP also reported last week that it had taken control of the camp of the Maute group in Butig, Lanao del Sur after days of intense operations. Government troops overran the main camp of the armed group in Barangay Poktan, where the houses

of Maute leaders, brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute, were located. The palace issued the statement after MILF chairman Murad Ebrahim said in a press conference in Kuala Lumpur on Monday that ISIS was trying to establish a stronghold in Mindanao to capitalize on the growing frustration on the breakdown of efforts to end the Muslim separatist rebellion. Congress failed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which would be the legal basis for the creation of an autonomous Bangsamoro region in Mindanao in accordance with the peace agreement between the government and the MILF. “Now, after the non-passage of BBL, we are quite concerned that they (ISIS) can capitalize on this because the sentiment of the people in the area is now very strong. The frustrations after the non-passage of the law, they can capitalize on that,” Ebrahim

said. But Coloma said that based on Ebrahim’s statement, the MILF leader merely wants the passage of the BBL to continue in the next Congress. Sen. Gregorio Honasan, a former soldier, also dismissed as “psychological warfare” Ebrahim’s claim that the ISIS is trying to gain a foothold in Mindanao. “What they are doing to us is a psywar. Let’s just ignore them until we can analyze, confirm, validate and say that the MILF was right, but we are ready,” said Honasan, vice presidential bet of United Nationalist Alliance. Honasan said the MILF’s statement cannot be taken as a valid warning as the rebel group needs to show it is still a force to reckon with. “Otherwise, they lose their leverage,” he said. The vice-presidential candidate said the MILF believes it also needs to flex its muscle to gain the respect of the next administration.

FUNDS IN PERIL. PhilHealth board member Ed Dorotan said the health insurance earned P96 billion last year, but paid out P97 billion in total claims. Photo from doh.gov.ph

Aquino believes campaigning for LP is his duty PH blocks $870M stolen from Bangladesh by rosette

aDeL

Philstar.com

MANILA— A Malacañang official defended President Benigno Aquino III’s involvement in the election campaigns, particularly in appearing in advertisements of Liberal Party’s top candidates Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo. Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said Aquino believes he is fulfilling his duty to Filipinos in campaigning for the Liberal Party’s Daang Matuwid Coalition. “President Aquino is actively campaigning for the candidates of the Daang Matuwid Coalition because he believes it is his duty to our Bosses, the Filipino people, to ensure the continuity of good governance that is essential to the attainment of inclusive growth for future generations of Filipinos,” Coloma Jr. said Sunday in an interview with Radyo ng Bayan. “Ang paglahok ng Pangulo sa kampanya ay bahagi ng kanyang nais na maipagpatuloy at maisulong ang mga nasimulang reporma at programang pang-

Daxim L. Lucas Inquirer.net

AN ATTEMPT to launder through the Philippine banking system an additional $870 million—funds reportedly stolen by computer hackers from the account of the Bangladesh central bank—was foiled last month after international banks recalled an order to transfer the amount to local banks. Just a few days before this, however, $81 million, suspected to have come from the same source, managed to enter the local banking system and was released to local clients of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC). Various sources told the InIn this February 2016 photo, President Aquino leads the Liberal Party campaign rally in Roxas quirer that the money, worth alCity. He flashes the “Laban” sign with presidential candidate Mar Roxas and running mate most P3.7 billion at the prevailing Leni Robreo exchange rate, were channeled kaunlaran na siya ring prinsipyo tioned Aquino’s role in Liberal to a foreign exchange dealer and at adhikaing isinasabuhay ng Party’s political activities leading then transferred to casinos—Somga kandidato ng Koalisyon ng to the May ballot. laire Resort and Casino, City of “Kaisa po si Pangulong Aqui- Dreams and Midas—where they Daang Matuwid sa pamumuno nina Secretary Roxas at Repre- no at ang buong pamahalaan sa were converted into chips for pagnanais na magkaroon nang betting at the gaming tables, then sentative Robredo,” he said. Coloma’s statement came after maayos, malinis [at] mapayapang converted back into cash and revice presidential candidate Sen. halalan sa darating na Mayo,” mitted to accounts in Hong Kong Francis “Chiz” Escudero ques- Coloma said. soon after.

All told, these transactions comprise the largest documented case of money laundering ever uncovered in the country by regulators. RCBC execs knew At the same time, the Inquirer learned that the head of the RCBC branch on Jupiter Street in Makati City where the transactions were made has issued a statement to the bank’s management that top officials of the Yuchengco familycontrolled bank were “aware of the transactions at every stage, from the very beginning to the end.” A representative of the bank manager—who has since been suspended as part of the bank’s internal investigation—showed the Inquirer documents alleging that the transactions had the imprimatur of top bank officials ever since the manager was ordered to open five bank accounts as early as May 2015. To support the opening of these bank accounts, the RCBC branch manager was provided with five identification documents or ID cards, all of which were determined to carry fictitious identities after the contro-

versy broke out. “The branch manager is now willing to speak out because she’s afraid the bank will pin it all on her,” a representative of the official told the Inquirer on late Monday. “But, in fact, she was ordered to facilitate these transactions. You can’t do anything this big without higher-ups not knowing.” US banks According to the documents seen by the Inquirer, the $81 million in inward remittance happened on Feb. 5. As with all international wire transfers, the funds were cleared through USbased correspondent banks, in this case, the Bank of New York, Citibank and Wells Fargo, according to the branch manager’s representative. The local counterpart was then notified of the incoming funds using the Swift (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) messaging system commonly used by banks for international transactions. Businessman, casinos The funds were deposited into PAGE A6

march 11-17, 2016 • NOrcaL aSIaN JOUrNaL

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OpiniOn

Features

Empowered

ON MARCH 8, the world celebrated International Women’s Day. It has been designated to acknowledge and celebrate the many social, economic, cultural and political achievements and contributions of women around the world. According to the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), the observance of International Women’s Day (IWD) was a result of the organizing activities of women in the early 20th century. Between 1909 and 1911, working women in the United States participated in organizing strike activities of the National Women’s Trade Union League and other concerned groups. They were responding to the low wages, lack of protective legislation and the poor working conditions to which women workers were subjected during that time. With this year’s team “Pledge for Parity,” people are encouraged to take a concrete step to help achieve gender parity more quickly—whether to help women and girls achieve their ambitions, call for gender-balanced leadership, respect and value difference, develop more inclusive and flexible cultures or root out workplace bias. Each of us can be a leader within our own spheres of influence and commit to taking pragmatic action to accelerate gender parity. The World Economic Forum (WEF) predicted in 2014 that it would take until 2095 to achieve global gender parity. Then one year later in 2015, they estimated that a slowdown in the already glacial pace of progress meant the gender gap wouldn’t close entirely until 2133. In the Philippines, March is Women’s Role in

History Month. It is also National Women’s Heart Health Month, its first week is Women’s Week and its 8th day is International Women’s Day. The country was recently hailed by WEF as Asia’s best-performing country and fifth in the world when it comes to closing gender disparity. Iceland remained the most genderequal country in this year’s list, followed by Norway, Finland, Sweden and Ireland. Rwanda ranked sixth, followed by the Philippines at seventh. Switzerland, Slovenia, and New Zealand completed the top 10 worldwide. The Global Gender Gap Index is measured based on four primary indicators which include economic participation and opportunity, education, political empowerment, and health and survival. In its Global Gender Gap Index, the WEF reported that the major improvement was seen in the economic participation and opportunity indicator after the Philippines recorded more female legislators, senior officials and managers, as well as professional and technical workers. The country also saw slight improvement in its score for political empowerment due to a higher number of women in ministerial positions. While Filipinas have made strides in realizing their formidable role in nation building, the Center for Women’s Resources (CWR) still insists that

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

more women initiate genuine societal transformation where their demands would be fulfilled. They must contribute to bridging gender disparities and shortfalls especially in areas with low development levels such as areas with high poverty level, and are hazard-prone and disaster affected.

For the world to truly enjoy gender equality and women empowerment, men and women alike must continue exerting tremendous efforts to identify remaining difficulties threatening women’s development, not just for their advancement but for the better future of all. (AJPress)

Could the Republican Party establishment stop Trump’s momentum and prevent him from becoming the GOP nominee? WHAT is going on in the Republican Party nomination contest has become more of a nailbiter than most reality shows, thanks to the unexpected sprint to the front by reality show star and business mogul Donald Trump. Perhaps the Republican Party establishment did not see this coming, thinking that the Grand Old Party (GOP) electorate’s relationship with him was just a “fling”, arousing its curiosity when he announced he was running for president. But now, Trump has proven such fling is looking like a lasting affair, as he has been winning in more states than any of the traditional Republican presidential candidates. Could it be too little, too late? The GOP has been scrambling to convince voters to think again before voting for Trump. Former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney had

IF not for his ruling-class name, and if not for Mommy’s inherited wealth, which he used to win electoral posts and pay for his expensive PR imaging, Roxas really couldn’t have moved further than Capiz: his performance in government in the past two decades has been so utterly dismal, he’s a loser. What he had accomplished is almost entirely the creation of an image for himself as Mr. Palengke, whatever that means. At best, it helped him shed off part of his elite image to garner the most votes in the senatorial race in 2004. Either his eyes have always been on the presidency ever since Mommy in 1993 ordered him back to the Philippines to continue the clan’s political clout that he couldn’t focus on the tasks before him. Or he’s just not fit for a government job, for some reason. His personal website lists three laws he championed when he was a congressman from 1993 to 2000, and if you, dear reader, don’t remember what these are, I rest my case. His website says he authored “46 bills” in the 13th Congress, but the site doesn’t even claim any single bill he has shepherded into law. The website only says he has filed this bill and that – 12 of those – but not a single one, not even the Freedom of Information Act, had been enacted into law.

misogyny, the absurd third-grade theatrics.” Of course, these words went antithetical to what Romney did when he was running against Pres. Barack Obama four years ago. He courted Trump’s endorsement -- as CNN reported, even after Trump had led the “birther” controversy against President Barack Obama, insisting that Obama release his birth certificate to prove he is an American citizen. Now the Republican Party SuperPAC has been spending millions of dollars to attack Trump, but the more they do this, the more his loyal fans came to his defense. However, it seems some of the criticism may have been gaining traction as Trump’s ratings

Roxas’ dismal record in govt

Commentary

RigobeRto tiglao

even spoken out as one of the elder party leaders to warn The Fil-Am people against Trump, delivering a fiery speech against Perspective their party’s front-runner. “Donald Trump is a phony, a fraud,” Romney said of Trump. “His promises are as worthless as a degree from gel SantoS-ReloS Trump University. He’s playing members of the American public for suckers: He gets a free ride to the White House, and all we get is a lousy hat.” Romney went on to characterize Trump as somebody the voters should not put their trust in during this election season, alleging that “dishonesty is Donald Trump’s hallmark,” pointing to his “bullying, the greed, the showing off, the

Roxas was DTI secretary, first under President Estrada from January 2000 to November that year, and then under President Arroyo from 2001 to 2004, suddenly becoming one of her most vitriolic critics. (His first word in an anti-Arroyo rally, shouted in anger: “Pu….ina!”) Roxas, indeed, has proven to be so quick to join political lynch mobs, to be at their forefront, his gaze always at the presidency. The Department of Transport and Communications under him ran to the ground a showpiece of previous administrations as the MRT-3, making hell out of Filipinos’ daily commute in Metro Manila. It can’t even deliver such basic things as drivers’ licenses and car plates – many months after citizens have paid for them. Roxas brought his ineptness to the Department of Interior and Local Government, with tragic consequences: the massacre of 44 elite troops in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. Knowing that his troops were being encircled for the kill early that tragic day, he didn’t do anything to save them, even as President Aquino was by his side the whole day. You don’t have to take it from me. Following are two accounts of Roxas’ performance: the first in 2003 by Babe Romualdez, a Philippine Star columnist and a respected PR and businessman, not known to be an impulsive critic of government; the second, the refutation by a pioneer of the business-processing industry of Roxas’ boast that he nurtured that huge dollar-earning sector. Babe Romualdez in his April 13, 2003 column “Babe’s Eye View:”

“On several occasions, I have expressed my disappointment about Mar Roxas’ performance as DTI secretary, the same disappointment raised by a number of business groups. However, let me make myself perfectly clear: I have nothing personal against Secretary Mar Roxas. In fact, I still consider him as a friend, although the feeling may not be mutual. In fact, very early on, I told him on one occasion that a large group of businessmen are very disappointed about his performance, and that he should meet them as soon as possible. He did not listen. That’s why these businessmen banded themselves together and came out with full-page ads to air their long-standing and unheeded complaints. They have reason to come out with these ads because it is apparent that the DTI secretary is simply glossing over the issues. They desperately need protection because businesses are closing left and right, and jobs are already being lost on account of Mar’s indifference. Very recently, Petronas of Malaysia and British Petroleum have decided to pull out their US$340 million dollar investment from Bataan Polyethylene. They were so disgusted because for the last five years that Mar Roxas sat as DTI secretary, he has done nothing to address their problems, particularly in the area of tariff. This is another big black eye on the country’s already volatile economy. This plant could have directly and indirectly employed over 300,000 Filipino

workers. However, those jobs are now gone. Uniden has also packed its bags and left, laying off its 2,000-strong workforce. JG Summit Petrochemical Plant may eventually follow suit. So, you’ve got Sec. Cito Lorenzo creating one million jobs on one side and Sec. Mar Roxas cutting off hundreds of thousands of jobs on the other. Now you tell me, who is protecting whose interests? Obviously, the DTI has other concerns than the well-being of the local industry and the Filipino workers. Instead of creating jobs and protecting the local workforce, Mar is not doing anything to slow down the opening of our market, which puts at risk the local industries. Have you ever wondered why this country is always neck deep in a budget deficit? With more and more workers being laid off, and with more and more companies closing, the result is a decline in tax revenue, resulting in a huge budget shortfall. What is more disturbing is Mar’s quick-fix solution to solve the budget deficit: by selling the so-called “crown jewels;” blue chip corporations such as Pagcor; and by putting on the block Philippine properties abroad. This is a typical investment-banker kind of mentality. The closure of numerous companies sent shock waves in the employment sector. In 2001, more than 71,700 Filipinos lost their jobs, while in 2002, more than 77,601 were laid off; an 8.1 percent increase in job losses. As of 2001, about 3.423 million of the country’s workers were without jobs, while 4.625 mil-

have gone south by a few percentage points leading up to Super Tuesday 2 (Tuesday, March 8). More consequential primaries and caucuses are taking place this March, and the results of these will prove if Donald Trump can hold on to his frontrunner status, and eventually win enough delegates to clinch the nomination. However, pundits say if Trump does not win the required number of delegates, we may be expecting some backroom deals happening within the Republican Party leading up to the convention. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www. facebook.com/Gel.Santos.Relos

lion were unemployed. In the semiconductor industry alone, although 6,800 new workers were taken in 2002, more than 15,000 were laid off during the latter part of the year. In fact, 16 percent of office spaces in the Makati area are now vacant; and the number is still growing. From 2000 to 2002, numerous investment companies have left the country: DBS Vickers Securities, Salomon Smith Barney, Merrill Lynch Securities, HSBC Securities, Citicorp Securities Inc., and Worldsec International Securities, among others. During the first five months of 2001, Merrill Lynch was the top broker in the area of market transactions. The following month, it suddenly closed shop. What we have here are cold, hard facts and figures, permanent records of what had happened, and are still happening to the business sector since Mar Roxas became DTI secretary. These are the very reasons why the local industrial sector is virtually up in arms. Their businesses are collapsing, while their efforts to improve the economy’s health are being ignored, or worse, spurned. Their cry for government to help them fell largely on deaf ears. They are also extremely worried about the thousands more of their employees that would be losing their jobs if nothing is done.” March 6, 2016 report in The Manila Standard, entitled: “BPO industry pioneer: Gloria, not Mar did it.” “Industry pioneer Oscar Sañez, who led the IT and Business Processing Association of the Philippines from 2007 to 2011, disputed Roxas’ creditgrabbing and said the industry’s

phenomenal growth should go to Arroyo. Sañez said there were only 2,400 call center workers in 2000 when Roxas was named DTI secretary and he served less than a year because he resigned in 2001 at the height of the second People Power uprising against then President Joseph Estrada. Although he was later re-appointed by Arroyo, he resigned the DTI portfolio in 2003 because he wanted to run for senator. While Roxas was attending to his politics, Sañez said the industry grew at an average of 65 percent per annum over a decade and had nearly half a million workers by the end of 2009, which was Mrs. Arroyo’s last full year in office. Even when Roxas was no longer in the DTI, total export revenues generated by the IT-BPO industry grew from only $1.3 billion in 2003 to $8.9 billion in 2010. “I know how much the business process offshoring and outsourcing sector owes Mrs. Arroyo. We are proud to describe ourselves as a successful model of real private public partnership or PPP,” Sañez added. He said the Arroyo administration’s support to the industry included the creation of the ITBPAP, creation of the Commission on Information and Communication Technology, providing investor support through the accreditation of buildings used by the industry, completion of infrastructure projects like airports, and training vouchers from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority worth over P800 million from 2007-09.” (ManilaTimes.net)

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

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • mARCh 11-17, 2016

Palace: Give DOJ a chance to finish SAF 44 probe’ by Delon

Porcalla

Philstar.com

MANILA—The Department of Justice (DOJ) should be given enough leeway to finish its probe on the mass murder charges the government filed against Muslim rebels responsible for the massacre of 44 members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in January 2015. Press Secretary Herminio Coloma said this is necessary to check the evidence needed for the resolution that is being drafted. Coloma issued the statement

after the DOJ failed to meet its self-imposed deadline to resolve the charges last month. But Justice Secretary Emmanuel Caparas told reporters that the resolution would be released this week. Coloma vowed that the government would not stop until justice is served to the families of the slain SAF 44 members. Last year, President Aquino was confident that as part of their peace agreement with the government, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) officials are expected to turn over their members who slaughtered the SAF men who were serving an arrest warrant for Malaysian terrorist

Marwan, who was killed in the process. More than a year later, however, not one MILF member, or even those from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), has been surrendered by MILF officials. Instead, the officials have repeatedly denied that their men killed the law enforcers, insisting that it was a legitimate encounter and not a massacre. A total of 90 combined commanders and members of the MILF, BIFF and armed civilians were implicated in the death of Presidential candidate Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago speaks before students of the Our Lady of Fatima University in Valenzuela City on Philstar.com photo the 44 SAF commandos during Friday, March 4. the operation in Mamasapano on Jan. 25 last year.

China won’t budge on South China Sea sovereignty

CHINA’S foreign minister on Tuesday, March 8, took a hard line on the country’s claims to virtually all the South China Sea, saying Beijing won’t permit other nations to infringe on what it considers its sovereign rights in the strategically vital area. Wang Yi, speaking to reporters at an annual news conference in Beijing, said that another nation’s claim to freedom of navigation in the region didn’t give it the right to do whatever it wanted—an apparent reference to the United States, which had sent naval ships past reefs where China had engaged in island-building. Wang sought to deflect allegations China was militarizing the region by building military facilities on the artificial islands. He said Beijing’s development there was defensive and that other nations were being militaristic—not China. “China cannot be labeled as the most militaristic. This label is more suited to other countries,” Wang said. China has come under fire from the United States and its allies in recent months over its land reclamation activities in the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes annually. Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, but the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam have overlapping claims. The US Navy has carried out freedom of navigation exercises, sailing near disputed islands to underscore its rights to operate in the seas. Those patrols, and reports that

Miriam vows to improve cash transfer program by rainier

allan Philstar.com

ronDa

can we truly make growth inclusive. Only if the young are educated and healthy can they benMANILA—Presidential can- efit from the growing economic didate and Sen. Miriam Defen- prosperity,” Santiago said. sor-Santiago will improve the She proposed to match the 4Ps implementation of the Pantawid with a grant-for-work program, Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) which means that if either the if she gets elected in May. mother or father in a beneficiary Santiago, who authored a bill family works, the family will get that seeks to institutionalize the higher stipends. 4Ps in 2009, said she would plug “There is more pride in workleakages in the poverty alleviation ing than in getting dole-outs,” she program and reduce tehe cost of said. running it. In Senate Bill 2858 filed in July “We need to invest in our peo- 2015, Santiago sought to expand ple. Only by investing in people the 4Ps to include children aged

15 to 18 years old in order to ensure the beneficiaries would finish high school. To reduce the administrative cost of running the 4Ps, she said she would involve the local government units (LGUs), with the Department of Social Welfare and Development supervising the program’s implementation. “LGUs should be involved so they would get credit for the 4Ps. DSWD has no monopoly of righteousness. Besides, social welfare is a devolved function. Local authorities should be given a chance to prove their worth,” she said.

PH blocks $870M stolen from...

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi

China is deploying advanced missiles, fighters and radar equipment on islands there, have led Washington and Beijing to trade accusations of militarizing the region. Freedom of navigation does not equal “freedom to run amok,” Wang said. US Defense Secretary Ash Carter has warned of “specific consequences” if China takes “aggressive” action in the region. He has said the US military is increasing deployments to the Asia-Pacific region and has planned to spend $425 million through 2020 to pay for more exercises and training with countries in the region that were unnerved by China’s actions. “In fact, based on the joint efforts of China and other regional countries, the South China Sea is currently one of the safest and freest shipping lanes in the world,” Wang said. “China was the earliest to explore, name, develop and administer various South China Sea islands. Our ancestors worked

diligently here for generations,” he added. “History will prove message through the Swift syswho is the visitor and who is the PAGE A5 genuine host.” the five bank accounts created tem recalling the $81 million In addition to reaffirming that a few months earlier and were and ordering a stop to another South China Sea islands were an transferred to foreign exchange $870 million in inward trans“integral” part of China’s terri- broker Philrem for conversion fers. A banking source said the tory that “every Chinese is obli- into pesos. It was then transgated to defend,” Wang reiterat- ferred back to RCBC and consoli- transfer of the $870 million was ed Beijing’s refusal to cooperate dated into the bank account of a stopped in time, but the $81 milwith an International Court of Chinese-Filipino businessman, lion had already been released Arbitration case brought by the who then moved it to the casi- and, by the time authorities were alerted, had already been moved Philippines in The Hague over nos. disputed claims in the area. Another government source back offshore. Hackers, Federal Reserve Manila has asked Beijing to told the Inquirer that the ChiTwo officials of the Banglarespect the decision, which is ex- nese-Filipino businessman also pected in May. took care of remitting the funds desh Bank (the central monetary But China has refused to rec- to Hong Kong after these were authority of Bangladesh) were also reported to have visited the ognize the case, insisting all dis- moved through local casinos. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to putes should be resolved through System failure bilateral talks. “Yes, the casinos were part of demand the return of the funds In his news conference, Wang the chain to transactions in this that were allegedly stolen by reiterated that China was quite [suspected] laundering case, hackers based in China from its within its rights not to participate but there were several layers accounts with the US Federal and accused unnamed others of in the banking system before Reserve. The branch manager’s reprebeing behind the case. that, which should have detect“The Philippines’ stubborn- ed these suspicious funds and sentative, meanwhile, said she ness is clearly the result of be- stopped them,” the official said. was now afraid that she would be included by the Bangko Senhind-the-scene instigation and “The system failed.” political manipulation,” he said, Soon after RCBC released tral ng Pilipinas in its so-called without elaborating. (Inquirer. the funds to its client, the bank “orange list” of bankers found net with reports from the wires) received a so-called “MT103” to have committed violations of

SAN FRANCISCO

TAIPEI

important banking regulations, such as the know-your-customer rule under the Anti-Money Laundering Act. Ordered by top execs “The fact is, she was ordered to do it by top officials,” said the manager’s representative. He asked that the identities of the RCBC branch manager and himself be kept confidential due to the sensitivity of the issue until the Senate blue ribbon committee holds a public hearing on the matter on March 14. “[The branch manager] is willing to testify,” he said. “She is clear that she did not violate any banking or antimoney laundering laws.” Besides the Senate, the National Bureau of Investigation and state-owned Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) are conducting their own investigation of the money laundering incident. Pagcor operates its own casinos and licenses a few private firms to run their own casinos.

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL •MARCH 11-17, 2016

Journal

Your Immigration Solution Atty. RobeRt Reeves Devin M. Connolly AnD nAnCy e. MilleR THE ability to apply for permanent resident status (green card) in the US rather than at the Embassy in your native country is frequently more than a simple convenience. Rather, being forced to depart the US and apply abroad can have life-altering consequences. By leaving the US an applicant may be making themselves ineligible for the very thing they are leaving the US to apply for – a green card. And no, it does not matter that they only reason you left the US was because you were told that you were ineligible be granted your green card from within the US. So it is clear that it is beneficial to apply in the US. Not only is it less disruptive to your life and likely less expensive since you do not have to travel, but you also will not trigger any bars to returning because you would have never left. Unfortunately though, not everybody is eligible to be granted their green card in the US. There are many reasons why a person may not be currently eligible to apply for their green card in the US. A common reason for this ineligibility is because they were previously ordered deported. Whether they were ordered deported after failing to appear in Immigration Court or because the Immigration Judge denied their application, this outstanding order of deportation will make you ineligible for your green card. It then becomes necessary to have the prior court case reopened. A person will be ordered deported if they fail to appear for their hearing in Immigration Court. This is referred to as an in absentia order of deportation. A foreign national issued

Obtaining a green card after being ordered deported an in absentia order of deportation has 180 days to file a motion with the Immigration Court requesting that the order be rescinded because their failure to appear was due to ‘exceptional circumstances.’ The term ‘exceptional circumstances’ refers to compelling situations beyond the control of the foreign national, such as serious illness to themselves or serious illness or death of their spouse, child, or parent. As you can see, a case will not be reopened for something as trivial as car problems the day of the hearing or an inability to take time off from work. Rather, it truly must be an exceptional situation for a case to be reopened on this ground. A second reason an in absentia order of deportation may be rescinded is if the Immigration Court did not provide proper notice of the time, date and location of the hearing. And while many people are indeed notified and simply choose not to appear because they fear the outcome will not be positive, many others are not properly notified. There are no official time limits on filing a motion based on a lack of notice, but a person should make this request to the court in a timely manner after learning that they were ordered deported. It is also important to note that a foreign national is required to inform the Immigration Court when they changes their address, Thus, a person cannot fail to appear after moving and then ask for their case to be reopened because the post office did not properly forward their mail. There are also times when a person appears in court and submits their application for relief, only to have the Immi-

gration Judge deny their case. The foreign national may even appeal and have their case denied by the Board of Immigration Appeals as well. In this situation a person is required to file their motion to reopen within 90 days of the decision. But what happens if you do not become eligible for your green card for several years, perhaps when your child turns 21 years old. Despite being well beyond the 90-day limit, it may still be possible to have your case reopened and be granted your green card. You will have to show clear evidence that you are eligible for your green card if the court case is reopened, and it helps to also show compelling evidence why your case should be reopened, such as hardship to family members or significant ties to the US. Despite an outstanding order of deportation, a green card may still be within your grasp. It is advisable to consult an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who is dedicated solely to the practice of immigration law so that they may advise you of potential options and their likelihood of success. *** Atty. Reeves has represented clients in numerous landmark immigration cases that have set new policies regarding INS action and immigrants’ rights. His offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City. 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)

by Ric

Sapnu Philstar.com

CLARK FREEPORT — Clark can become a business process outsourcing center (BPO) or the Silicon Valley of the Philippines., according by Australian businessman Peter Wallace. “Up here in Clark, you have plenty of land that can be developed so it can be done and it’s above sea level so it makes a lot of sense to decentralize out of Manila up to here and maybe make this the BPO center of the Philippines - the Silicon Valley or the Bangalore of the Philippines or Asia,” Wallace said.

“Leave agriculture to Mindanao and leave manufacturing to Cavite, let’s make this (Clark) the services center,” Wallace added. Clark Development Corp. president and CEO Arthur P. Tugade said IT is one industry that is in Clark. “From hardware to software, IT is a business by itself. Clark right now, abounds in businesses related to IT,” he said. In 2010, CDC was awarded Center of Excellence

in Information and Communications and Technology by the Business Process Association of the Philippines, Commission on Information and Communications Technology and the Department of Trade and Industry. Clark has also been officially designated as a Center of Excellence in ICT investments alongside Metro Manila and Cebu. Wallace reiterated his call to make Clark the Silicon Valley of the Philippines. He also called on government authorities to consider Clark and Subic to be the next capital of the Philippines. n

Philippines among top 3 growth markets for auto sales in Asean

pines managed to grow 27.6 percent year-on-year in January while sales in Brunei, Indonesia, MANILA — The Philippine au- Malaysia and Thailand declined, tomotive industry continues to latest data from the Asean Autobuck the downtrend in Southeast motive Federation showed. Singapore was the region’s Asia wherein total vehicle sales retreated 3.5 percent to 236,930 fastest-growing automotive market during the month, posting an units in January this year. Vehicle sales in the Philip- 89.7 percent sales increase folby Richmond

S. meRcuRio

Philstar.com

lowed by Vietnam (35.8 percent) and the Philippines. Meanwhile, Brunei’s vehicle sales plummeted 30.9 percent year-on-year. Indonesia and Thailand – the two biggest automotive markets in the region – fell 9.9 percent and 13.2 percent, respectively.

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MARCH 11-17, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

The CTV Files Atty. LiLLi B. BAcuLi FACEBOOK! Twitter! Instagram! Don’t forget to “tag” your friends and make sure everyone knows about your #adventureswithmylove. Not many people stop and wonder who else might be looking at your posts and pictures? Among the 500 or so online friends you might have, the Department of Homeland Security, Department of State, and other government entities might also be looking at your posts on social media. Marriage fraud. Consider John and Amanda, who are newlyweds. John, a noncitizen foreign national, just married Amanda, a United States citizen, and by virtue of this marriage John is looking to adjust his status to that of a lawful conditional permanent resident. During their adjustment interview, John and Amanda were asked about their lives together as husband and wife. The interview culminated in John being accused of entering into

Community Journal

Social media and immigration the marriage with Amanda for the purpose of getting his “green card.” This is because during the course of the interview, John and Amanda provided conflicting answers to the Immigration Officer’s questions, particularly dates and places – as confirmed by the spouses’ social media posts. Under current immigration laws, no visa petition may be approved if the alien has previously been accorded, or has sought to be accorded, an immediate relative or preference status as the spouse of a citizen of the United States or the spouse of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, by reason of a marriage determined by the Attorney General to have been entered into for the purpose of evading immigration laws. In this scenario, John would be facing the serious consequences of a marriage fraud finding – if it is found that there was marriage fraud – because if he is found to have entered into a fraudulent marriage with Amanda, all subsequent visa petitions on his behalf must be denied. Good moral character/crimi-

nal bars to DACA. Many applications for immigration benefits under the Immigration and Nationality Act, including reliefs from deportation, require “good moral character.” A finding of good moral character is a statutory and a discretionary matter. Let’s use DACA as an example. A key element to qualify for deferred action under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program is that an individual “must not have been convicted of a felony, a significant misdemeanor, or three or more non-significant misdemeanors, and not pose a threat to public safety or national security.” For example, a conviction for a felony, “significant misdemeanor,” or “multiple misdemeanors” will automatically bar eligibility for DACA unless the Applicant is able to show “exceptional circumstances.” Gang affiliation is one of the concerns for public safety in such an application. Marco is a prime candidate for DACA. He’s a good student, volunteers at his community church, and is on his high school basketball team. He and his best friend,

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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA AMERICA is now a debtor nation owing $19 trillion and still mounting, the last $10 trillion load incurred in the last 7 years. Economists say that with the current budget passed by the feckless, reckless bunch of politicians of both parties in Congress, this budget will catapult the national debt to $21 trillion in 2 years. Early warning signs indicate that unless something drastic is done and a tourniquet applied to stop the hemorhage, America is on a tipping point going the way of socialist Greece in a few short years. Greece, long admired as the foundation of Western civilization, has become a case study in modern times on how nations. Let me try and break it down for those of us trying to wrap this staggering national debt load in our heads: $19,000,000,000,000.00 or 12 zeroes to the left of the decimal point. A trillion is a million million dollars. If every individual living in this country were to pay this debt just to be free and clear, each one would have to pay through the nose, roughly $70,000 for every man, woman and child. How can any country sustain its sovereignty with such a staggering load? How can our leaders be so inept as to be unable to bite the bullet and rein in such utterly reprehensible fiscal irresponsibility? How can we leave generations yet to come with such a shameful legacy? On the more mundane individual level, many people do not

Dr. Val’s Dental Views Dr. VALerie

De Leon

DURING medieval times, people believed they could cure a toothache by driving a nail into an oak tree. Silly, right? Today’s misconceptions are different There are still some crazy ideas out there about teeth — ideas that have very little to do with the facts. Have you ever fallen for one or more of these modern misconceptions? Most people have. Misconception #1: Cavities are only caused by sweets Technically, cavities are caused by carbohydrates interacting with bacteria on your teeth to create acid byproducts. Carbs include sugars, but cavities can just as easily be caused by crackers, potato chips, and bread! Misconception #2: Children are more prone to cavities than adults Kids are not inherently more prone to decay. They’re just not as good at brushing! Teach your child thorough brushing tech-

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Credit card hell on the macro and micro levels “Just because America is $19 trillion in debt does not give us the go-ahead to do likewise in our personal fiscal life.”

— MAM

realize until it is too late that they have become addicted to the use of credit cards to the point that after just a few years, they seek credit card counselling and in a worst case scenario, bankruptcy relief protection. They have unwittingly entered credit card hell with collection agencies hounding them and recording all sorts of negative entries into their credit history. How do you know if you are way in over your head with too much debt? There are early warning signs. If you find yourself like an acrobat trying to juggle too many bills, paying one company this month and another next month, borrowing from one to pay the other one and when lenders send you overdue notices, you are wading into the waters of financial trouble. Making only the minimum payments never really paying down the principal owed is one sure sign. When you have nightmares and begin dreading going to the mailbox and opening your monthly credit card statements, it is time for a reality check. Face this problem squarely. Ignoring it will not make it go away. Try discussing this with your lenders to work out a debt repayment schedule. They would rather not seize your property

or send the hounds of a collection agency to you. This is their last resort if you try to bury your head in the sand and ignore this problem. Even if you have defaulted on your credit, you still have certain rights as mandated by the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. There are a number of provisions about this act that affords you certain types of protection that you should know. Under the current laws of the land governing this matter, debt collectors cannot use abusive, deceptive or unfair techniques to collect the money that you owe. Unlike in some other countries, there are parameters that a collection agency cannot and should not cross. It will cost them if they do. There are resources in the internet and books in the library to help you through this sticky situation. Collection agencies cannot threaten you with violence, curse you or verbally assault you with arrest or imprisonment unless they are able to obtain the legal right to do so. They cannot force you to accept collect telephone calls or shame you by advertising your debt. You should know that bill collectors are prohibited from calling you before 8:00 AM

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Common misconceptions about dental health niques — helping them out until they’re dextrous enough to do a good solo job. Misconception #3: My teeth are fine if I have no pain Decay can eat clear through your enamel and dentin before some people feel it at all! Catching tooth decay early typically allows more of the tooth to be saved, and can spare you added discomfort and expense. Misconception #4: If my gums bleed I should stop flossing Actually, that’s a really bad idea. Bleeding gums are often the first sign of gum disease. This happens when bacterial infections inflame your gums due to a lack of efficient cleaning! Sure, floss gently if your gums are sensitive. But be thorough and extra diligent! Misconception #5: After dental work is done on a tooth it’s stronger than ever Not always the case. One of the biggest risk factors for decay is having had it before. Dental crowns and fillings are awesome but not perfect. They have nooks and crannies where bacteria can hide — especially as

the restorations age. The lesson to be learned? Have your teeth checked regularly to make sure all is going well. Misconception #6: There are no “best techniques” for flossing Not true. There are. If you don’t know how, take the time to watch this video: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4PreNWWOYfI#t=71 Remember, our greatest weapon against tooth decay is knowledge. Let us know if you have any questions about any of the ideas above, or any of your own that we haven’t covered yet. Thanks for sharing our practice with you extended family, neighbors, friends and co-workers. We appreciate the trust you place in us! *** If you have questions, pls call Dr. Valerie de Leon at (650) 697–9000 or visit our website at www.millbraesmiles.com. She is with Millbrae Smile Center located at 15 El Camino Real, Millbrae 94030. She is a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of Laser Dentistry, ADA, CDA and SMCDS. Please call for a free consultation. (Advertising Supplement)

Megaworld earmarks P55B to build new malls, offices by Doris

Dumlao-abaDilla Inquirer.net

PROPERTY developer Megaworld Corp. and its subsidiaries will be earmarking P55 billion for capital outlay this year, most of which will be used to build new commercial assets. In a press statement on Monday, March 7, real estate tycoon Andrew Tan’s flagship property arm and subsidiaries Global-Estate Resorts Inc. (GERI), Empire East Holdings Inc., and Suntrust Properties Inc. vowed to aggressively expand a group-wide rental portfolio. Of the budget this year, 75 percent will be used for development projects, particularly for the construction of new malls, commercial centers, office buildings and residential projects in townships. The remaining 25 percent will be used for land acquisition and investment properties.

“This year, we would start developing our new townships in Pasig City, Bacolod and Pampanga while ramping up our office and mall developments across our existing townships. We are bullish on the office and retail sectors because we see a remarkable growth in these businesses,” Megaworld seniorvice president Jericho Go said in a press statement. The spending budget this year matches the same level earmarked for 2015. On the residential development side of the business, the Megaworld Group plans to unveil 14 residential projects in Metro Manila, Pampanga, Iloilo, Tagaytay, Cavite, Davao, Baguio and Batangas within this year. The group is also launching 14 office towers, malls and commercial centers in McKinley West, Uptown Bonifacio, The Mactan Newtown, Iloilo Business Park, Arcovia City, Southwoods City

and Alabang. “We will certainly achieve the P11-billion rental revenue target by year-end,” Go said. In 2015, the Megaworld Group completed 16 residential projects and six business process outsourcing (BPO) office towers with retail components across its integrated urban townships. To date, Megaworld is the master-developer of 20 integrated urban townships across the country, with total land bank covering over 4,000 hectares. Of these townships, 11 are in the regions while nine are in Metro Manila. “Several townships are already mature, which means, we have already built in them the substantial components of a complete ‘live-work-play’ community such as Eastwood City and McKinley Hill. We are moving toward making our other townships mature as well, especially those outside of Metro Manila,” Go said. n

Community Journal

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Immigration Corner

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

The Metamorphosis

ernie D. Delfin (Part 2 of 2)

THE desired legacy of one generation to the next Every generation seems biased proclaiming that theirs is the “best” one over the other. For instance, journalist Tom Brokaw wrote his book “The Greatest Generation” describing the G.I. generation that suffered the Great Depression and also fought in WWII as the “greatest” which to many appears valid, as it was a bittersweet generation. Having read the book, it was an interesting period that helped propagate the surge in population during the Baby Boomers that give rise to “Make Love NOT War” slogans, as well as questioning authorities and forcing the government retreat in unwinnable war in Vietnam. To appreciate the contributions of this G.I. generation, Tom Brokaw’s book is a recommended reading. To this a baby boomer writer, who was born in the Philippines and left during Marcos’ dictatorial regime, then growing up and influenced by the idealism of Pres. John Kennedy during the era of Camelot and the New Frontier, I dare say that our own generation is much more excit-

The April 2016 priority dates The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: FAMILY CATEGORY:

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL •MARCH 11-17, 2016

Application Filing Date

Visa Issuance Date

September 1, 2005

July 1, 2004

First Preference

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

Second Preference

(2A) Spouse and minor children (below June 15, 2015 21 years old) of green card holder

October 22, 2014

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

May 1, 2005

April 1, 2005

Third Preference

Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.

August 1, 1995

December 22, 1993

Fourth Preference

Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.

January 1, 1993

September 1, 1992

LABOR CERTIFICATION:

Application Filing Date

Third Preference

Professional/ Skilled Workers

Other Workers

Non-Skilled Workers

Visa Issuance Date

January 1, 2010

May 1, 2008

January 1, 2010

May 1, 2008

*** before, where they had to wait for Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in active member of the State Bar of California order to both file for adjustment and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an and be eligible for a green card.

BEAUTY QUEEN’S CASE DENIED BECAUSE OF FRAUD, ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Karen (center) married US citizen Paul (left) in 2007. It was a match made in heaven, until their beautiful life was put under extreme hardship when Karen’s adjustment of status was denied, after she was found guilty of immigration fraud. They submitted a fraud waiver, and even that was denied. The couple was devastated and all plans for their family and businesses were shattered. Everything seemed hopeless until leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) took over Karen’s case and fought to convince USCIS Karen never committed any fraud. Watch how the “Beauty Queen” and her family regained their charmed life and Karen’s name was cleared, on a brand – new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 pm(PST) on TFC active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and

does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com

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

Denial of a fraud waiver shatters this beauty Different generations, queen’s American dreams – on Citizen Pinoy different strokes

ing, rich and colorful. Our generation has witnessed, caused, or participated in many milestones in the last 50 years as our generation has matured. For instance, our generation has been involved—or at least witnessed in awe—the ambitious attempt to conquer space, by landing man on the moon on Nov. 20, 1969. The period of the sixties saw the birth of Americans fearlessly marching to fight and demand for the citizens’ civil rights lead by a charismatic pastor and non-violence leader Martin Luther King (1919-1968), influenced and inspired by the success of another peace-loving leader, Mahatma Gandhi (18691948), who fought for India’s independence from British rule. Both non-violence leaders were unfortunately assassinated, that made them heroes of their time. During our generation, many extra-ordinary strides also occurred in many facets of our lives: in the economy, music and education, politics, science or medicine. Each generation is molded by the times, circumstances, economy or even natural factors such as “global warming.” Political upheavals, like the Arab Spring and now the emergence of terrorists groups like ISIS, decades after Osama Bin Laden’s 9/11 Twin

Hope came when they saw an episode of CitiIT was a match made in heaven when beauty titlist Karen exchanged “I do’s” with US citizen zen Pinoy while they were at a Filipino restaurant. Paul in 2007. They were shuttling between the US They immediately consulted with leading US imand the Philippines, managing their businesses migration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel on what to and happily living their successful life. When they do with their denied fraud waiver case. Towers attack, are altering the finally decided to settle in the US, they thought Find out how the “third times a charm”, when course of this generation to pregetting a green card through a spousal petition by Atty. Gurfinkel, as their third attorney, was able to serve its inherited freedom. The Paul for Karen would be easy. turn Karen’s case completely around, by convinclegacy of one generation is their But tragedy struck! At her interview, Karen was ing USCIS Karen commited no fraud, and no fraud collective response to external accused of fraud, and was required to submit a fraud waiver was even required on a brand-new episode and internal stimuli that cumuwaiver. The fraud waiver prepared by the lawyers of Citizen Pinoy–on Sunday 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 latively creates the succeeding they initially retained was denied. They felt their pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers). generations’ character that alters life and dreams crumbled right in front of them. (Advertising Supplement) the DNA of that generation. One glaring example of such legacy is an example brought about by the massive influx of Vietnamese refugees to the US in the 1970s, due to the Fall of Vietnam. It’s a historical fact that Vietnamese refugees underwent tough times fighting for their survival, leaving South Vietnam on overloaded boats to escape death at the hands of the Communists. Upon their arrival in the USA these “boat people” refugees worked long and hard to survive to start a new life for their families. Due to hard work labor and daily perseverance, many of them have become successful in the process after decades of great sacrifice. Many of these parents, however, in their innocent but loving desire for their children NOT to “suffer” what M A R C H 1 1 —A P R I L 1 they have endured are now giving their children the “fruits” of Eagle Rock High School Monthly Open House Tours their blood, sweat and tears. laureate Open House Tours, from 8-10am during the spring semester on Friday, March And what happens to some of their children? Some (not all) of 11; and Friday, April 1. Eagle Rock Junior/Senior High School serves students in grades 7u PAGE CJ4 12, and was the first school in the LAUSD to be authorized to offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (grades 7-10) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (grades 11-12), a project-based program for concept and content-based learning to promote global mindedness and service to others. The IB Open House is open to all interested students, and will include an introductory presentation in the ERHS library, followed by campus tours, classroom visits, and a short questionand-answer period. To register for the Open Houses, please visit www.erhs.la, and click on the “IB Open House Registration” link. Please email Mylene Keipp mylene.keipp@lausd. net for more information. We look forward to your visit!

Calendar of Events across

America

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Filipinos’ personal debt on the rise 4 out of 10 carry non-mortgage liabilities – survey by Mayvelin

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

HIGH levels of personal debt are overshadowing Filipinos’ increasing financial discipline, a financial services firm said. Manulife Philippines on Monday, March 7, cited results from its Manulife Investor Sentiment Index (MISI) survey, which found that Filipino investors have relatively high levels of personal debt (excluding mortgages), which in turn could jeopardize their longterm financial security despite their otherwise strong day-to-day financial discipline. “Encouragingly . . . Filipino investors are among the best in Asia in terms of their savings and expense tracking behaviors,” the firm said. The MISI noted that almost all investors surveyed track their expenses regularly and manage to save part of their income each month–both of which are key indicators of good financial discipline. It also found that Filipinos are effective savers, with 46 percent of investors that have set a target saving amount starting to save early, before the age of 30. “This may explain why an overwhelming majority of investors claim they will have sufficient savings to meet their financial needs in five years time,” Manulife said. In addition, the survey said of those who have set a target saving amount, an overwhelming 74 percent expect to meet their goal in one to four years, which could indicate that Filipino investors are setting short term targets. Second only to Malaysia “However, despite this strong record in financial management, the survey revealed relatively high levels of personal debt,” the financial firm, said. The survey showed that four in 10 Filipino investors carry debt–

MARCH 12

Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. Grand Marshals Gala The Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) will launch the commemoration of the 118th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence on Saturday, March 12 with the Grand Marshals Gala at the Astoria World Manor (25-22 Astoria Boulevard in Astoria, Queens, New York 11102). The gala will take place from 7:00pm until 12:30am, honoring Dr. Leonidas “Ned” Pulido and wife Carmencita “Menchie” Pulido, who were chosen as the Grand Marshals of the 2016 Philippine Independence Day Parade in June. Gala tickets are $100 per person, with formal or Filipinana attire. Please contact the Chairwomen of the Grand Marshals Selection and Gala Committee, Ollie David (732-499-7995) and Helen LaBarbera (516-581-8830), ir OUDCU President Dr. Prospero Lim (347-248-5106) for gala invitations and more information. Interested parties may also call any of the Committee Co-chairs: Drs. Emilio and Fely Quines (347-254-2945), Drs. Rod and Elma Castillo (201-869-4044), Dr. Ely Parico (908-265-1293), Dulce Barangan (516-343-8592), Lauren Martinez (347-284-9886), Thelma Cabralda (631-331-5891), Zita Lapena (917-454-9344), Nida Cortez (646-649-5531), or Angie Molina (917-478-6754) or any of the PIDCI Board of Directors.

FACC-SLAA Induction Gala the second highest proportion in the region after Malaysia. While most have relatively small amounts of debt ranging from P5,000 to P24,999, 7 percent have debts of P500,000 or more, it noted. “A third of respondents cited daily living expenses as the main factor contributing to their debt, which could indicate that investors’ ability to save regularly may rely on the use of credit to pay for day-to-day living expenses,” it added. In addition, the MISI noted that while Filipinos are prudent savers, more than 80 percent regret some investment decisions, suggesting they are unable to effectively invest their savings for the long term. Manulife’s MISI survey is designed to track investor attitudes toward financial planning across eight markets in the region, in order to better understand investors’ needs and identify areas for increased financial literacy.

It is a half-yearly, proprietary survey measuring and tracking investors’ views across eight markets in the region on their attitudes towards key asset classes and issues related to personal financial planning. The Index is calculated as a net score for each asset class. The overall index is calculated as an average of the index figures of asset classes. A positive number means a positive sentiment, zero means a neutral sentiment, and a negative number means negative sentiment. The MISI is based on 500 online interviews in Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, and 500 face-to-face interviews in Indonesia. Respondents are middle class to affluent investors, aged 25 years and above who are the primary decision maker of financial matters in the household and currently have investment products. n

The Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce for South Bay Los Angeles Area (FACCSLAA) presents the annual fundraising gala and induction of its board members, to be held on Saturday, March 12 at 6:00 pm, at the Holiday Inn Los Angeles Gateway-Torrance (19800 S Vermont Ave. Torrance, CA 90502). Philippine Consulate General Leo Herrera-Lim will be the inducting officer, with guest speakers Assemblymember Rob Bonta and former Assemblyman Warren Furutani. Attire for the dinner is Filipiniana/formal. The gala dinner is also a fundraiser for the FACC-SLAA Scholarship project of the chamber raising funds for deserving, eligible Filipino American students who are business (or related) majors in colleges and universities in the South Bay area. Four scholars who will each receive a $500 scholarship award. Fil-Am students applying for the scholarship should have a minimum of a 3.0 grade point average, low income/financial need, have no criminal record, must submit a one page essay on why the student is applying, and must be willing to volunteer or intern at FACC-SLAA for 80 hours. The deadline to apply is on Feb 15 to apply. Interested students, please email facc.slaa@gmail.com or fekoons@aol.com. Tickets for the FACC-SLAA Induction and Fundraising Gala are $60 each. Please email facc.slaa@gmail.com for more information, or contact President Cynthia Tan (310) 748-9688 or Fred Docdocil, VP Programs (310) 619-8101.

MARCH 13

Sto. Tomas, Batangas Association Fiesta The Sto. Tomas, Batangas Association of Southern California will celebrate their fiesta on Sunday, March 13, at 1:00pm at Sliver Star Financial office (217 N Azusa St. Azusa, CA). For further details, please call Willie Manacsa (818) 400-7391, Ofie Villanueva (626) 3834152, Rosie Sancianco (951) 898-7628 or Myrna Jaurigue at (909) 545-9876.

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

Community Journal

MARCH 11-17, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Forex reserves hit $81.3 B in February, highest in over 2 years by Lawrence

agcaoiLi Philstar.com

MANILA — The country’s foreign exchange reserves rose sharply in February, hitting their highest level in more than two years amid strong inflows, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported Monday, March 7. BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. said the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) reached $81.3 billion in February, up $609 million from $80.69 billion in January and the highest since December 2013. Tetangco traced the increase to the revaluation adjustments on the BSP’s foreign currencydenominated reserves and gold holdings resulting from the rise in the price of gold in the international market. The BSP chief also cited the net foreign currency deposits by the national government as well as the central bank’s income from investments abroad. Data showed the value of the BSP’s gold holdings went up 11 percent to $7.81 billion from $7.04 billion. Tetangco pointed out the inflows were partially offset by the central bank’s foreign exchange operations and payments made by the national government for its maturing foreign exchange obligations. The GIR is the sum of all foreign exchange flowing into the country. The reserves serve as buffer to ensure the Philippines would not run out of foreign ex-

PAGE CJ2 t

BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. said the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) reached $81.3 billion in February, up $609 million from $80.69 billion in January and the highest since December 2013.

change that it could use to pay for imported goods and services, or maturing obligations in case of external shocks. If it deems necessary, the BSP buys dollars from the foreign exchange market to prevent sharp depreciation of the peso. It can also sell to avoid sharp appreciation of the local currency. Tetangco said the end-February GIR level remains ample as it can cover 10.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and income. He added the GIR level was also equivalent to 5.7 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 4.1 times based on residual maturity. The country’s foreign ex-

change reserves reached $80.67 billion last year from $79.54 billion in 2014. The figure was slightly lower than the revised GIR level target of $80.7 billion for 2015. For this year, the BSP sees the GIR hitting $82.7 billion equivalent to nine months import cover. The BSP now expects cash remittances from Filipinos abroad growing by four percent this year. It also expects the current account surplus of $5.7 billion this year, lower than the projected level of $8.9 billion in 2015 due mainly to the expected large increase in the imports of goods, notwithstanding improvements in the services and secondary income accounts. n

Social media and…

Kenny, were recently invited to hang out with the “cool kids” after school. It turns out, “hanging out with the ‘cook kids’” meant smoking weed under the bleachers of the local high school - #thuglife. As proof of their newfound coolness, Kenny posted a picture of his “crew” and without knowing it, flashed a known gang sign. To be sure, no single application will be denied solely because of a posting on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Nevertheless, once a person posts something online for the world to see, it does not just go away and it

EMPLOYMENT

would do us well to understand that government entities and even prospective employers have been increasingly looking to social media postings by individuals as part of their background investigations. In particular, those who are looking to avail of immigration benefits under the federal laws of the United States should be extremely wary about their posts which might inadvertently adversely affect their case. It is important to be well-informed and to know your options, but the wrong advice or information can hurt you. Consult a licensed and experienced immigration attorney to help you

navigate through the evolving immigration laws. ***

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.

EMPLOYMENT

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

Philippines among top 3 growth…

PAGE CJ1 t

In terms of volume, the Philippines had the fourth most number of cars sold among the seven Asean Automotive Federation members in January with 23,808 units. Indonesia sold 84,885 units while Thailand and Malaysia sold 51,821 units and 44,591 units, respectively. In terms of production, a total 8,826 units were assembled in the country in January, 36.4 percent higher from 6,470 units produced in the same month last year. Aside from the Philippines, only Vietnam recorded higher year-on-year production among the five Asean Automotive Federation members that have local assembly operations. Philippine vehicle production, however, remained at the bottom

Vehicle sales in the Philippines managed to grow 27.6 percent year-on-year in January while sales in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand declined, latest data from the Asean Automotive Federation showed. Philstar file photo by Andy Zapata Jr.

with Thailand producing 147,651 Malaysia at 46,731 units and units, Indonesia at 83,587 units, Vietnam at 16,150 units. n

Credit card hell on the macro and…

PAGE CJ2 t

or after 9:00 PM, and they may not call you at work if they know that your employer disapproves. If the collectors violate any of the rules of the act, you can sue for damages. But do not look at this as a way to make money. Know that if the court finds you have acted in bad faith with the collection agency, you may have to pay the collector’s legal bills. Suing for damages can backfire on you and cause you more trouble. The rights protect you from abuse but your debts have not been forgiven. Creditors can and will seize whatever assets you have, attach or garnish your wages or foreclose on your home or

property if you do not pay what is due them. Recent legislation that govern bankruptcy protection laws seem to go in favor of credit card companies rather than the consumer. Gone are the times when consumers who have abused their credit lines can seek protection from their creditors by simply hiding their assets and filing for bankruptcy. If you seek to understand the substantial changes that are shaping the country’s bankruptcy protection laws, go to government internet websites that cover consumer debt and bankruptcy laws. Who would know better than a government mired in debt itself?

For those of us pathetic rubes near or at the bottom of the American social structure who must work or tend to our businesses, there is a basic life lesson to be learned from this cautionary tale of American fiscal recklessness. In our time, this would be the big kahuna of debts. Bringing this down to the microcosmic level of our personal lives, there is a simple life lesson to be learned from this monumental fiasco. When it comes to drugs and debt: Don’t do it. Just don’t. *** Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ asianjournalinc.com

Different generations, different…

PAGE CJ3 t

these kids have become spoiled and soft, and some are even into “gangs and drugs” — probably to add more “excitement” in their boring lives, oblivious of the sufferings of their elders. I am sad to share that this phenomenon is now happening in Orange County (where I volunteer as a Catholic Prison Minister) where the largest concentration of Vietnamese people outside Vietnam. The difference between the Vietnamese first degree immigrants’ values of the 1970s and their children or children’s values is quite pronounced, a dramatic shift that is causing serious concerns in our communities, that is made more publicly by the daring escape of

three prisoners from County Jail recently. I am reminded of one of the poignant anecdotes given by Stanley and Danko, authors of “The Millionaires Next Door,” when they described this sad but common phenomenon in a satirical manner: “The first generation labored hard to create their wealth, the second generation enjoyed it and the next generation squandered it!” Culturally perhaps, we Asians — Filipinos included — seemingly do not have the philosophy of NOT giving all their wealth to the children. More people should follow, in my opinion, the example of multi-billionaires like Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates in giving

at least half of their wealth away to improve mankind! When all is said and done, the legacy that each generation must leave our children and their children should be something that cannot be taken away from them, not ALL material wealth but other things that cannot be corrupted or lost, like kindness, empathy, integrity, generosity, independence and spirituality — always doing what is right, even at times when nobody else is looking. May our respective generations continue to work and leave our world a better place for the next generations to come! *** E-mail writer : ernie.delfin@gmail.com Visit: www.gkerc.org

FOSTER HOMECARE

SERVICES

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL •MARCH 11-17, 2016

Change your clock, change your smoke detector

Warren Furutani

Sukhee Kang

Mae Cedana Torlakson

Ed Chau

Jane Kim

David Chiu

Mariko Yamada

Kansen Chu

Rob Bonta

Rajiv Dalal

AT 2am on Sunday, March 13, 2016, we will move our clocks ahead one hour, marking the start of Daylight Saving Time (DST). Please take an extra few minutes to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change their batteries if necessary. A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in your home that can alert you and your family to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Whether you’re awake or asleep, a working smoke alarm is constantly on alert, scanning the air for fire and smoke. The life they save may be your own. Every three hours a home fire death occurs somewhere in the U.S. A working device greatly improves your chance of survival. California law also requires Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors in your home. Please follow this link on Smoke Alarms for several important safety tips and Ready Marin

for preparedness information. Your Firefighters in Marin are specially trained and equipped to rescue your family and pets, as well as to protect your possessions. Help your Firefighters by remaining together outside the home and directing them to endangered family or valuables. – Plan and practice escape plans several times a year. – Make sure your whole family knows when and how to call emergency telephone numbers.

– Obtain and learn how to use a fire extinguisher. – Install carbon monoxide detectors. – Consider installing residential fire sprinklers in your home. We hope these fire safety tips will help keep your family safe. Please remember that fire prevention is always your best course of action. Please learn more about fire and life safety by visiting your Neighborhood Fire Station. (City of San Rafael)

Eggstravaganza 39th anniversary event in San Mateo Todd Gloria

Ash Kalra

Evan Low

Al Muratsuchi

Phil Ting

Asian & Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus announce endorsed candidates for June 2016 primary SACRAMENTO, CA — The California Asian & Pacific Islander (API) Legislative Caucus has announced its endorsements for the following candidates running for State Senate and Assembly races in the June 2016 primary election: • Warren Furutani, Senate District (SD) 35 • Sukhee Kang, SD 29 • Jane Kim, SD 11 • Mariko Yamada, SD 3 • Rob Bonta, Assembly District (AD) 18 • Mae Cedana Torlakson, AD 14 • Ed Chau, AD 49 • David Chiu, AD 17 • Kansen Chu, AD 25 • Rajiv Dalal, AD 43 • Todd Gloria, AD 78 • Ash Kalra, AD 27 • Evan Low, AD 28

• Al Muratsuchi, AD 66 • Phil Ting, AD 19 “The California API Legislative Caucus is proud to support an exceptional group of highly qualified APIA candidates for the upcoming primary election,” stated Assemblymember Das Williams (D–Carpinteria), chair of the API Legislative Caucus. “We have an opportunity to elect the first ever South Asian American and Filipina American to the California State Legislature. All of these candidates have proven to have the experience and values needed to continue our API Legislative Caucus work in supporting our immigrant communities, improving education access and quality, and building a stronger California economy.” “Our government will work

better by diversifying the voices in it,” said Assemblymember Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), vice-chair of the API Legislative Caucus. “This election provides an exciting chance to get more API Californians elected. We are a growing part of this great state and deserve a larger stake in its leadership.” The API Legislative Caucus is made up of the nine Democratic Asian & Pacific Islander American (APIA) members of the California State Legislature. The Caucus was established in 2001 with the mission of representing and advocating for the interests of the diverse APIA communities throughout California. It seeks to increase APIA participation and representation in all levels of government. n

Watch for phone scammers demanding immediate water payments CONCORD – The Contra Costa Water District has received reports from several customers this week who have been contacted on the phone by scammers demanding immediate water payments. These phone scams are targeted at commercial customers, primarily after hours, with a demand for funds being sent via wire (such as Western Union). One scammer demanded an immediate payment of $300. That customer did not owe the District any money.

To protect themselves, CCWD customers need to know: • CCWD would never demand a water payment by wire. • CCWD only calls customers on weekdays between the hours of 8am and 5pm. • CCWD would never cut off water service for lack of payment unless there had been previous multiple contacts with that customer. If you are called by someone you suspect to be a scammer, hang up and call CCWD’s Customer Service number at (925)

688-8044 between the hours of 8am and 5pm to ensure you are actually talking to the District. The District will also put you in touch with the appropriate law enforcement authorities. The District has other guidelines to protect customers at www.ccwater.com/imposter n

USCIS announces citizenship and Integration grant opportunities Grants will support citizenship preparation services for permanent residents

WASHINGTON — US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now accepting applications for two funding opportunities under the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program. These are competitive grant opportunities for organizations that prepare permanent residents for naturalization and promote civic integration through increased knowledge of English, US history and civics. The two programs will provide up to $10 million in grants for citizenship preparation programs in communities across the country. Applications are due by April 22. Through these grant opportunities, USCIS seeks to expand availability of high-quality citizenship preparation services throughout the country. The two opportunities are: • Citizenship Instruction and Naturalization Application Services: This opportunity will fund

up to 36 organizations which offer both citizenship instruction and naturalization application services to permanent residents. • Citizenship Instruction only: This newly created grant opportunity will assist nonprofit organizations in establishing new citizenship instruction programs or expanding the quality and reach of existing citizenship instruction programs. USCIS expects to award up to 10 nonprofit organizations through this opportunity. In doing so, USCIS seeks to encourage the expansion of the existing field of citizenship instruction programs, particularly those offered by small, community-based organizations that have not previously received a grant from USCIS. USCIS expects to announce all 46 award recipients in September. Since 2009, USCIS has awarded approximately $53 million

through 262 grants to organizations that have provided citizenship preparation services to more than 138,000 permanent residents in 35 states and the District of Columbia. To apply for this funding opportunity, visit www.grants.gov. USCIS encourages applicants to visit www.grants.gov before the application deadline in order to obtain the registration information needed to complete the application process. For additional information on the Citizenship and Integration Grant Program for fiscal year 2016, visit www.uscis.gov/grants or email the USCIS Office of Citizenship at citizenshipgrantprogram@uscis.dhs.gov. For more information about USCIS and its programs, visit www.uscis.gov. Follow us on Facebook (/uscis), Twitter (@ uscis), YouTube (/uscis) and the USCIS blog The Beacon. n

Time change can lead to sleepy drivers THE switch to Daylight Saving Time, on March 13, often means losing an hour of sleep for many people. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) joins the National Sleep Foundation in observing National Sleep Awareness Week, March 6-12, to highlight the importance of drivers being aware of the potential dangers of the time shift. Last year in California, sleepy or fatigued drivers were involved in 5,447 collisions, in which 40 people died. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conservatively estimates that 100,000 police-reported crashes are the direct result of driver fatigue each year, resulting in an estimated 1,500 deaths, 71,000 injuries, and $12.5 billion in monetary losses. Cognitive impairment after approximately 18 hours awake is similar to having a blood alcohol content of .05 percent, research by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) has found. The NSF

studies also show that after 24 hours awake, cognitive impairment is similar to a blood alcohol content of .10 percent – higher than the legal limit in the US. Two out of every five drivers admit to having fallen asleep at the wheel at some point, research by the American Automobile Foundation shows, with one in ten drivers saying they have done so in the past year. More than a quarter of those surveyed said they continued to drive even though they had difficulty keeping their eyes open. The NSF recommends that individuals aged 18-64 get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. Stimulants like coffee, energy drinks, and lights from electronic devices all may interfere with natural sleep/wake cycles. The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest levels of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California. n

THE City of San Mateo Parks and Recreation Department’s signature springtime community event and largest “egg hunt” in its 39th year of existence will be attended by hundreds of excited children and families eagerly searching for eggs in beautiful Central Park. Event will be on Saturday, March 26 from 9am to 1pm. The following activities will go on as follows: • Pancake Breakfast (Sponsored by the San Mateo Sunrise Rotary) 9am-11am, $8 adults / $4 child • Peter Rabbit’s Playground: Pre-school egg hunt (1-3 years old) 9am-1pm, Free • Large Egg Hunts (4-9 years old) There will be 9 different egg hunts throughout the day. Scheduled egg hunts: 9am, 9:30am, 10am, 10:30am, 11am, 11:30am, 12pm, 12:30pm and 1pm. Purchase desired timeslot for $3 at cityofsanmateo. or/parksandrecreation or get remaining wristbands at event for free. • Food trucks (food for pur-

chase) 10-1pm, Taqueria Angelica’s and Red Sauce Meatballs • Community Parade Bring your wheels, floats, dress up and join us. Registration on site. 10am, free • Free entertainment all day long! 9:30am - magician Mr. SHAP, 11am - Mister Q, 12pm - Renee Padgett, Walking Sideways. Take SamTrans! Central Park is served by both Routes 390 and 391, which stop

at the intersection of Fifth Avenue (northbound) as well as Fourth Avenue (southbound) and El Camino Real. Route 292 stops three blocks away from the park at North B Street and Fourth Avenue and Route 250 stops one block from the park at San Mateo Drive and Fourth Avenue. Visit the www.samtrans. com website for more information. Questions? Call the Parks and Recreation Department at (650) 522-7470 for more information. n

MARCH 11-17, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

Friday, March 11, 2016

SF2

cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - March 11, 2016

Jose Johann Bitancor and making art with the barest of means Solo exhibition runs until May 2, 2016 at Jack London Square, Oakland by Malou liwanag-Bledsoe /AJPress

ARTIST James Whistler wrote, “An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision.” This holds true for many talented but struggling artists. With technology taking over traditional artists with computer manipulated, Internet downloaded pieces only a few can survive with just doing art. Filipino artist Jose Johann Bitancor knows the challenge of being an artist in the United States. Although he continues to join art exhibitions, he understands that it takes awhile before he and his art gets the recognition he/it deserves. Also, he realizes that he still needs to support his family by being a freelance graphic designer and a managing member of an in-home care services in San Jose. Born in Baler, Aurora in the Philippines, Bitancor is the youngest among four siblings and the son of parents Gregorio Bitancor (of Naga City) and Peladia Leander (of Baler, Aurora). He migrated to the US in 2003 with his wife and son (they have two other children). Young at art and the improvement of skills Bitancor shares that it was his brother Jeho, who is a social realist painter, who influenced him in doing art when he was young. “There was an event that he saw and I showed him my first drawing at the age of seven, and with his uplifting response, I was encouraged to continue practicing to hone my skill,” he said. “ Since then, I

managed to compete and win some awards in several art competitions. I pursued my interest in art further and I finished my Fine Arts degree from the Far Eastern University in the Philippines.” There was no denying that his talent was there waiting to bloom, so to hone his skills, he participated in group workshops (which his brother conducted) and later on joined art competitions. “I took pleasure as a child in hand-crafting my toys from scrap. That led me to pursue Fine Arts and I worked as a Graphic designer in several firms after my degree. My creative outputs were devoted entirely to the Applied Arts, particularly Exhibition Design and Collateral Design. I pursued a short stint at the University of Memphis-Tennessee in 2004,” he said. Apart from participating in local art groups’ events, Bitancor also managed to receive a Portfolio Merit Scholarship from the Memphis College of ArtTennessee in 2006. In 2009, he made my first ouvre entitled ‘Playing Lego.’ His brother encouraged him to continue

“22Alki Point 10,” 22 mixed media on canvas, 2016

his style, as well as to explore, cultivate and labor to further increase his knowledge. “Since then, he became my teacher and my mentor. I likewise must admit owing allegiance to the concerns of Picasso and Braque in treating reality as a springboard towards abstraction,” he added. To date, his works had been featured in a number of group exhibitions in the Philippines and in the US, notably at the Jose Johann Bitancor Rochester Contemporary Arts Center, Bliss on Bliss Art means, Bitancor added that his Projects in New York, Gallery present work does show traces in Seattle, San Francisco the of the everyday life with the Germantown Performing Arts use of materials and graphic Center in Tennessee and the devices. These devices give University of the Philippines hints at what is real. Vargas Museum and Bencab Bitancor brings this style Museum. and work at his third solo exHis past solo exhibits inhibit, “Istruktura,” currently runclude “Istruktura” (2014) at the ning at the Jack London Square Burien Community Center and Realty (annex) in Oakland. “Timeline” (2015) at the LynHis present ouvre consists of nwood Library Art Gallery, both two-dimensional exploration in Washington State. of linear, planar and textural “Istruktura” and the poscompositions in a non-represibilities of transforming objects sentational manner. Concerned to art of not only unifying chaotic eleDescribing his fascination ments in abstract compositions, with the possibilities of transhe injected them with symbolic forming a given object or mate- references to social realities. rial to art with the barest of “’Istruktura’ is derived

from the modern structure,” he explained and then added, “Almost a decade ago, we lived in the Mid-Southern part of the country and later moved to the evergreen state of Washington. I was utterly mesmerized by the modern structure and the vista in city of Seattle, especially a place called Alki Point in Alki Beach. In 2012, with my long time passion in sculpture and graphic design experiences, I made my first Alki Point series—a combination of mountain trees and a modern houses, through the manipulation of a chaotic graphical movements, figures and shapes. Later on, the series of

“22Istruktura 10,” mixed media on canvas, 2016

“22Belvu 5,” 22 mixed media on canvas, 2016

The artist with a guest during his Seattle art show in 2014.

Des Moines, Belvu (Bellevue) and Dash Point evolved with the same concept, and I titled them ‘Istruktura.’” Bitancor believes that being an artist—whether here or in the Philippines—is indeed a laborious and long process. “My utmost challenge [however] is myself,” he said and added, “The respect of my peers and in the art field itself.” “Istruktura” is presented by Paolo Mejia Fine Arts and Design and will run until May 2, 2016 (with a reception on Saturday, March 12) at the Jack London Square Realty (annex), 311 Oak Street, Suite 116, Oakland. For more information, log on to www.paolomejia.com.

Goodbye for now: Kris Aquino leaves Heart Evangelista, Dennis Trillo to ABS-CBN to pursue a stress-free life star in ‘naughty’ love story

KRIS Aquino says she will be stepping away from the limelight. In a series of Instagram posts on Tuesday, March 8, the TV host-actress said she is leaving ABS-CBN, her home network for almost 20 years, to focus on her health, her family and her businesses. The announcement comes days after she hinted on social media about making “important life choices in the next days” following recent issues with her health. “Thank you, Kapamilya,” Kris began. “Our relationship as a family started October 28, 1996 and it will soon end this March 23, 2016.” “A total of 10,354 days working for ABS-CBN, my life’s most fulfilling professional journey because of your love, acceptance and loyalty,” she told her more than two million followers on Instagram. She also said the taping days for her morning show “Kris

TV” is set on Wednesday and Thursday. She continued: “Just like all of you, I love my FAMILY. My most valuable life destiny is to be Mama to KUYA JOSH and BIMBY; and to be a loving, selfless sister to ATE, PINKY, NOY and VIEL: a BUNSO who doesn’t give them constant worry because of my health and safety.” “I’m not putting a time frame, but with my type of work, it’s realistic to accept by leaving ABSCBN I’ll be replaced and soon forgotten,” Kris added. “My sons and I will travel, we’ll move to our new home, and I’ll eat healthy, sleep early, exercise regularly, and live quietly--everything to make sure Kuya Josh and Bimb have a healthy mother.” Kris thanked her endorsements for “sticking it out with me while I work on my longterm health and wellness.” Kris added that for her

by Tess Mauricio-arriola ManilaTimes.net

FIVE years since co-starring in GMA Network’s fantasy series Dwarfina, Heart Evangelista and Dennis Trillo are up for a reunion project in a new prime time offering titled “Juan Happy Love Story.” Described by its creative team as a “sexy, and naughty romantic comedy,” the plot of the show has yet to be divulged, although its cast was already presented in a story conference. Chosen as a strong support cast for two of the network’s prized talents, Heart and Dennis will be joined by Gloria Romero, Lotlot de Leon, Gardo Versoza, Erika Padilla, Dominic Roco, Vincent Magbanua, Kim Domingo, Rob Moya, and Leanne Bautista, under the direction of LA Madridejos. In an interview, Dennis, who was once vocal about intentions to woo Heart after first working with her in 2009’s “Mano Po Kris Aquino “next chapter,” she will focus on 6” from Regal Films, expressed excitement over tackling a charher businesses. acter that will give him a break “I need to continue being from drama. The two celebrities WORKING MOM since I’m the never really had the chance to SOLE PROVIDER for my sons, date, but ended up as friendly but for now I’ll do it away from colleagues. the stress of the limelight.” “My last show was a serious She also said “this isn’t drama so I’m excited to do goodbye” but a “I think you’ll something that’s very differmiss me and I hope to see you ent—yung medyo pilyo naman, again, soon.” light at nakakatawa,” Dennis This isn’t the first time Kris explained. said she will stay away from Heart shared the same showbiz. In 2013, after a spat sentiments, and said she is also with ex-husband James Yap, looking forward to tackle a Kris said she will resign from totally different character that show business to focus on her will make viewers laugh rather children. than cry. In 2010, she also resigned “I’ve been crying way from her showbiz talk shows after too long on TV,” the actress her brother Benigno Aquino III laughed. “It’s time I do somewas elected as president of the Philippines, only to return as a TV thing like this kasi masyado host a year after via the morning nang seryoso ang buhay.” Heart, who celebrated her talk “Kris TV.” (Philstar.com)

Dennis Trillo and Heart Evangelista

18th anniversary in show business on February 26, admitted she still has some jitters over her role though. “Like they said, it’s a naughty and sexy love story, so I’m sure there will also be a lot of adjustments I have to make.” Heart, who is of course married to senator and vice presidential candidate Chiz Escudero, will be guided by the other side of her public life in terms of just how “naughty” she can get on TV. Incidentally, while busy with an April 4 target airing for “Juan Happy Love Story,” Heart is also juggling her time joining her husband on the campaign trail. She first joined him in Nueva Ecija, which marked her first ever campaign sortie. Of course, the crowds were excited to see Escudero’s famously beautiful wife. They cheered

ManilaTimes.net photo

when Heart said, “Hindi lang siya gwapo, matalino at magaling, may puso pa. Importante at yan sa akin na may puso ka at mahal mo ang bayan. Sumama ako dito kasi kailangan makita ninyo kung gaano kalaki ang puso niya para sa inyo.” As if her plate isn’t full with a prime time series, campaign schedules, not to mention her prolific career as painter Love Marie, Heart also announced that she will soon have a culinary show, which will be shown in the region via cable channel Star World Asia. Dennis, on the other hand, is also enjoying his defending his title as “Lip Sync Battle Philippines’” first weekly winner, imitating local artist Andrew E. in “Andrew Ford Medina,” and bringing the house down with his “rendition” of Sia’s “Chandelier.”

What makes ‘JaDine’ and #OTWOL a hit among Filipinos By Monet

WHEN James Reid and Nadine Lustre—a.k.a JaDine— started making some buzz, I wasn’t paying much attention. I love their tandem but I didn’t think they would be the phenomenal loveteam that they are now. Things changed when I went home (Philippines) for a vacation and really saw it for myself—The JaDine craze is beyond imaginable! ABS-CBN’s TV Series, “On The Wings Of Love” (OTWOL), which starred reel—and now real lovers—James and Nadine ended just a week ago. After soaring the airwaves with over four million viewers every day, 1 million tweets and the hyperkilig-to-the-bones feeling that’s just so contagious that they could form a cult, they finally ended their seven-month run. I didn’t get the chance to watch the final episode but it’s like the end of an era when it happened. Everybody got so hooked to the story; now that it’s over, there’s just a void in their day-to-day routines between 9:30pm– 10:15pm. You’ll know an amazing show when you can’t stop thinking about it. You just stop whatever it is you’re doing or make room in your schedule to watch it. And it doesn’t end there -- you have this intense desire to talk about it with your friends or play the scenes in your head and think about possible lines you would’ve said if you were Leah (Nadine’s character) or Clark (James’s character). It got me thinking what makes this series so unique and yet so familiar to Filipinos. Well, for one; it is a story that is so relatable to the modern Pinay and her struggles as an OFW. The pilot episode showed Leah’s mom, “Rona” (played by Isay Alvarez) leaving her children to work abroad. The scene where she is saying goodbye to her children is just one of the many scenarios happening over

Nadine Lustre and James Reid

and over to thousands of our Kababayans who chose to do the same to give their families (back home) a better future. The situations involving TNT’s in the US and “arranged marriages” to get a green card, or wishing the “American dream,” are just among the issues that we (here in the US) encounter so often. Coming from someone who’s lived here almost my whole life, I can relate when the show talks about problems that immigrants face. I believe this is one of the strongest points of the show. They truly knew how tug on the heartstrings and make the storyline relatable in a really poignant manner. Speaking of emotional scenes, OTWOL just makes you feel in love almost all the time. What’s even more amazing is that you feel for the characters; you laugh, fall in love, get heartbroken and be hopeful just like the characters! There are no overly complicated plot lines, cliché displays of affection, ‘forced’ backstories or complex

love affairs. Only lighthearted, romantic story that puts you in a good mood every time you watch it. But aside from the way the writers made this TV series so engaging, there is no denying the chemistry of James and Nadine. Even the whole cast spoke about it behind the scenes. Indeed, the one thing that the creators of this series did right from the start is to cast a loveteam that is not predictable and unassumingly innocent. JaDine is the fresh, ‘goodvibes’ pair that’s so easy to love. They don’t try too hard to look sweet or to come up with stories for publicity’s sake. They started out as best friends in real life, they didn’t make people expect that they are—or will be—a couple. And when they actually became one, they owned up to it and admitted it in the most kilig way possible! Everything about them is so transparent and that, I believe, is their best asset as love team Continued on Page SF4

Features SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – March 11, 2016

Ara Mina: Cristine-Vivian feud ‘blown out of proportion’ ACTRESS Ara Mina lamented that the spat between “Tubig at Langis” stars Cristine Reyes and Vivian Velez has been “blown out of proportion.” In a report by the Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP) on Tuesday, March 8, Mina defended her sister Cristine by saying: “I’m disheartened that the issue has been blown out of proportion.” She said that she was able to talk to her sister, who might give a statement “when she is ready.” Mina also expressed sadness after learning that some people have already passed judgment on her sister without hearing her side of the story. “Alam namin that people Ara Mina defended her sister Cristine Reyes from bashers after the reported incident with experienced actress have already judged and speculated bago pa nila bigyan Vivian Velez. Instagram photo by Ara Mina si Cristine ng pagkakataon na and shout at her. maayos at magandang pagmagpaliwanag, hence, I decided uusap. I’ll pray and wish that Velez has since met with to release this statement ineverything will be okay between the showrunners of “Tubig stead,” she said. at Langis” and has agreed to the two of them,” she told PEP. The 36-year-old actress shoot for three or more days so On Sunday, March, 6, Velez hopes that Reyes and Velez that her character could have a announced on her Facebook would be able to iron out their proper exit from the TV series. account that she quit “Tubig differences and resolve their The ABS-CBN afternoon at Langis” because Reyes was conflict. soap stars Reyes, Isabelle Daza, rude to her. “I hope na maayos ito, and and Zanjoe Marudo. (Inquirer. The veteran actress claimed lahat naman ay nadadaan sa net) that Reyes would bang doors

Eric Tai and his winning form PHILIPPINE Volcanoes player-turned-”It’s Showtime” host Eric Tai beams with pride as he talks passionately about his personal fitness triumph. Through sheer will power, the 6’1” hunk now sports a leaner but more defined physique of Marvel superhero proportions—a massive chest, rippling arms and a freakishly well-defined six-pack abs. Think Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and you’ll get the idea. “I just lost 30 lbs in just two months just by abiding by a clean and healthy diet combined with exercise,” he asserts.

As a fitting reward, Tai has been blessed with the opportunity to immortalize his personal triumph by landing on the cover of the maiden issue of the Philippine edition of Muscle & Fitness, considered as the world’s leading magazine on fitness and bodybuilding. “It feels so surreal! It hasn’t even sunk in yet,” he confesses, recalling the time he drew inspiration from the magazine as a lanky teener during his formative years. As his own way of giving back to his supportive fans, Tai Continued on Page SF5 Eric Tai

SF4

celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - March 11, 2016

celebrity world By Ferdie Villar STILL trying to move on from the sudden death of famed director Wenn Deramas, the Philippine entertainment industry is again faced with the passing of another colleague. Francis Xavier Pasion, director and screenwriter of top-rating primetime dramas for such as On The Wings of Love, Princess and I and My Binondo Girl; was found dead last Sunday, March 6, in his home. Apart from television, the 38-year-old Pasion has also been recognized internationally for his critically acclaimed indie films, including Bwaya and Jay. With two brilliant directors dead due to cardiac arrest in a span of less than two weeks, people are now looking into the working conditions of all of

those in the showbiz industry. Film director Quark Henares pointed out specifically that it is time to change the working hours and conditions of those who work on television. In his social media post, he wrote, “I think the reason a lot of TV director like Wenn Deramas and Gilbert Perez, now Francis Pasion are getting cardiac arrests is because of the horrible working hours and conditions in television.” Perez is a TV and movie director who also died due to a heart attack in 2008. Henaras added, “And it’s not just directors: stuntmen, ADs, crew people and cameramen all go through similar situations. This should really change. And I don’t know how

‘On The Wings Of Love’ director Francis Pasion dies at 38

it will, considering that this entails losses for the networks. But it really is time.” Direk Francis was a Cum Laude Communication graduate at the Ateneo de Manila University and started his career as a designer’s apprentice for director Marilou Diaz-Abaya in the film Muro Ami in 1999. He then became a scriptwriter for movies Crying Ladies and Volta, and a script consultant for Feng Shui and Milan. Before directing on TV, he became a headwriter and producer for a public service-drama program in 2006, and wrote for the drama anthology Maalaala Mo Kaya. On the Wings of Love was his last project, which ended on February 26, 2016 — nine days before his death.

Successful businessman Rodolfo Bernardo is shown with his daughter, beauty queen and fashion model Marilyn Bernardo, taken during a welcome party for the latter at Shangri La Hotel in Makati City recently.

Sexy actress Cristine Reyes has explained that she didn’t know that she was being rude to her “Tubig at Langis” co-star, Vivian Velez. In fact, she claimed she actually allowed the veteran actress to share her dressing room/tent.

Action star Robin Padilla is the host of ABS-CBN’s newest game show, “Game ng Bayan,” which premiered last Monday, March 7. Joining him in the show is actress Alex Gonzaga.

Actress Alma Moreno is running for senator in the upcoming election. She is currently serving as Councilor for the 1st District of Paranaque City.

Handsome actor Sid Lucero is one of the stars in GMA’s newest teleserye, “The Millionaire’s Wife,” opposite beautiful actress Andrea Torres.

Actress Vivian Velez recently took on social media to announce that she wants to resign from her current teleserye, “Tubig at Langis,” after complaining about the rude treatment she got from lead star Cristine Reyes. Vivian since then has agreed to shoot some unfinished scenes on the condition that she does not work with the young actress anymore.

Our condolences to the family of Direk Francis. *** It was a case of “she said-she said,” when it comes to the current controversy between two sexy stars (one older than the other though). Just last week, actress Vivian Velez made a surprising announcement that she would be resigning from her current TV show, due to a conflict with one of its stars. On her Facebook she posted, “With much trepidation, I would like to tender my immediate irrevocable resignation, effective immediately, from the show, ‘Tubig at Langis.’ I have never been so upset and humiliated by an actress in my entire career spanning four decades!” Of course, since Vivian initially didn’t mention who the culprit was, many speculated it was Isabelle Daza. The veteran actress quickly defended Isabelle Francis Xavier Pasion, director and screenwriter of top-rating primetime dramas for such as On The Wings and said that it wasn’t her. Later of Love, Princess and I and My Binondo Girl; was found dead last Sunday, March 6, in his home. on, reports came out saying her co-star. have good work ethics, and that it was the show’s lead star After a talk with the ABSagreed that the young actress Cristine Reyes, who was being CBN management about this has a track record of making rude for the whole month that issue, Vivian has agreed to come “trouble” with the people she they worked together. Vivian back to shoot some of her unfinwork with. Others, however, explained that the last straw was believe that there are two sides ished scenes on one condition: when Cristine kicked her out of a in a story. she has requested not to work dressing room that they shared on any scene with Cristine. Eventually, Cristine did and continued to provoke and She also stands by her words give her side, saying that she shout at her. that she will not support any didn’t realize that she was being A lot of netizens had their lead actress like Cristine ever. disrespectful towards Vivian. In own opinions about the whole Maybe there’s a way for fact, she added that she herself matter. Some sided with Vivthese two actress to make their was stressed out because of the ian, saying that she wouldn’t peace to each other — once the conditions of her dressing tent, last in the industry if she didn’t heat dies down. which she willingly shared with

What makes ‘JaDine’ and #OTWOL...

From Page SF3 both on and off-cam. It is nice to know that we, Filipinos, can still spot and appreciate an authentic relationship in reel or real-life. To some, JaDine may be seen as just another loveteam competing amongst equally lovable rivals. But for me, they do more than just solicit votes and followers – they prove that there is much to look forward to as far as TV entertainment is concerned. To actually see how a teleserye like “On The Wings Of Love” became a household name even without the use of gimmicks or rated-PG scenes, tells us that there’s some maturity in us as Filipino viewers. To JaDine, and the cast and crew of OTWOL, congratulations! Please do not make us miss you too much. a movie ‘version’ would be nice (hint!).

*** 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

Entertainment SF5 How Rocco Nacino’s passion for martial arts keeps him fit Iza Calzado and Mikee Cojuangco: Advocates for Mother Earth The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - March 11, 2016

by Mylene

Mendoza-dayrit Philstar.com

IS there anything Rocco Nacino can’t do? It’s common knowledge that this GMA artist can sing and act, but did you know that he is a registered nurse? Rocco is also super athletic. His sports include jiu-jitsu, muay thai, MMA, boxing, arnis, basketball, and golf. He even owns and operates two Elorde gyms (Ortigas and Marcos Highway) as well as a Rufo’s Tapa restaurant (across GMA Network). Rocco turns a year older late this month which he will spend working on events with Alden Richards in Canada. We got lucky enough to grab him for a few insights on his fit lifestyle. The Philippine Star: What is your personal definition of fitness? Would you consider yourself fit? Rocco Nacino: My personal definition of health is a good mind and body — all balanced and no deprivation. Now? Yes, I would consider myself fit. I’ve gotten a little big over the holidays, but now I’m preparing for a project so yes, I am back on track. How often do you go to the gym? Describe your fitness regimen. If my schedule is not too tight, I get to do jiu-jitsu almost two to three times a week. And weight training after jiu-jitsu training. If I’m looking for something different, I get to squeeze in some basketball or golf games within the week. What role does working out play in your life? In your career? I’ve made sure that working out, or staying fit, is a lifestyle, something that I will never get tired of doing. It plays an important role especially since I am an athlete, and also I love to eat, so as to stay guilt-free, I make sure I work out regularly. It does play an important part, too, in my career since people see me as someone with a very active lifestyle. As someone whose business includes boxing gyms, people expect to see a fit owner. On my part, I have to deliver. And this is something that I want also; since people see this in me, I somehow get to motivate them to have an active lifestyle also. How do you choose the

by Christina

alpad ManilaTimes.net

ENVIRONMENTAL awareness knows no age, no gender, and no social status. This is what the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) stands for as it set to mark two important occasions this year: its 20th founding anniversary and the 10th anniversary of Earth Hour—its monumental activity that calls on humanity to switch off lights once a year for Mother Earth. In line with this, WWF-PhilipAnd the winner is: “My teammate Lester Yao and I bowed out in the final jiu-jitsu match — he gave me the gold and he took the silver,” Rocco Nacino describes this photo. “Teammates usually talk about who gets pines last Tuesday, March 1, forthe gold if they close out the division.” mally announced that this year’s started jiu-jitsu again, I went to food you eat? Do you have a Earth Hour is slated on March join my first tournament during 19. Showing her support for the specific diet that you follow? the first month just to get the I don’t. Haha! But now, I’m upcoming cause is no less than “first match” jitters out of me. very particular about what I’m the group’s newest National The following tournament, and eating since I’m sticking to a Ambassador, Iza Calzado. after months of training, I won program for a project. But usuIn her first-ever public apmy first gold medal at the 2014 pearance as an ambassador for ally, it’s anything goes. When I International Jiu Jitsu Open. It’s the foundation, actress and host train for jiu-jitsu, I usually lose true that it’s a different experitwo kgs. every training. SomeCalzado admitted that she was ence when you compete, it’s so first hesitant to join WWF. She times, my meals are guilt-free. far from training, and I love the But now, I’m on a high-protein told The Manila Times, “When kick that I get out of it. diet for muscle building. they signed me up, I wasn’t sure, What tip would you give How did you get into BraI told them I am not an environthose looking to start their BJJ mentalist. Not yet, anyway! zilian Jiu Jitsu? How does this journey? help in your career? “But the thing is, I know that Don’t be afraid, love the It started as a need for I can make a difference and I’ve sport. It’s better to experience it been given an opportunity to self-defense during college. first-hand. Trust me. You’ll want do so. And together with WWF, I was looking for an art that to come back after your first would keep me safe while I was I hope to inspire people, I hope lesson. The fun thing about it is to create change and I hope to commuting, and as I practiced, you never stop learning. That’s I fell in love with the sport. That somehow be a part of—I can’t what makes you come back for say a revolution—the movement opened my passion for martial more. arts, I started venturing into to make this world a better How about for those look- place,” Calzado further elaboboxing, muay thai, arnis, wing ing to start living a more fit chun, judo, but my love was for rated. and healthy lifestyle? jiu-jitsu. This helps in building When asked what will be My tip would be to look your patience as a person. For her pledge for the environment at the long run. I thought to my career as an actor, this art now that she’s part of WWF, the myself I wanted to be able to taught me the importance of actress sincerely answered, “My run and play with my grandchil- only pledge is that I will try to be humility towards people. Aside dren even if I was 70 years old. from that, I get to do/add cool a better citizen of the world and I want to be old but still do a moves during fight scenes. try to take better care of Mother lot of jiu-jitsu. The cliché is true, Nature. I’m slowly thinking of Usually, only less than YOLO. Enjoy every day. Prepare ways on how I can make my 10% of those who train in BJJ actually compete. You’ve been yourself to be able to live every household more eco-friendly. . day. It’s one investment you competing almost as soon . [with] small choices in life like won’t regret. Always look to as you started. As a public choosing not to waste water.” improve the quality of your life, personality, why risk the injury The Manila Times also sat or potential humiliation should you wouldn’t want to look back down with Mikee Cojuangco-Jaand say, “I should have done you lose? worski who has been an “Earth this or that, etc.” Why not?? (Laughs.) I Now to those reading this, love the adrenaline, I love the look at the long run. Do you see competition, I love the lessons yourself being able to do all the I learned when I lose, I love things you love as you grow oldshowcasing what I know to er? With your current lifestyle, everyone. will you still be able to do those Yes, I’ve injured myself, but things? Ponder on that. it’s all part of the game. When I

Eric Tai has just landed on the cover of the maiden issue of the Philippine edition of ‘Muscle & Fitness,’ considered as the world’s leading magazine on fitness and bodybuilding.

Eric Tai and his winning...

From Page SF3 embarked on his #EruptionTransformation campaign¬—an ongoing series of videos detailing quick, no-frills workout routines for busy people. “The feedback has been amazing! Some vids actually get hundreds of thousands of views within 24 hours,” he claims. Now happily married, Tai is thankful for his renewed life perspective. “I’m more of a balanced man now,” he says. “I know how to prioritize now, having a full-time partner in crime who’s very understanding and supportive with everything WE do. Through all the fame and glory, the former Showtime host shares how he’s kept himself grounded, and devoid of any illusions of grandeur. “Thank God always. Everything I have is from Him. Always having the attitude of gratitude to the man upstairs and also towards your fellowmen—this is what I live by,” he shares humbly. This year, Tai is more than ready to level up and get more serious with his acting career. He says, “Acting has always

been in my tool bag as I’ve already done theater before I went into Showtime, and even growing up.” Aside from having dabbled in theater and art through past workshops, Tai also studied drama at his secondary college back in Australia. Because of his hefty built, will Eric gravitate naturally towards doing action roles? “I’m more of an action thriller type of guy. And obviously, I’ve idolized Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson ever since I was in my teens—from wrestling all the way to the Hollywood big screen.” Has he done any teleseryes in the past? He says, “Not really. I didn’t have much time back then due to Showtime and me being an athlete. But I do remember a scene or two coming in beating people up. Haha! The role of the big boy!” Now that he’s signed up with Arnold Vegafria’s ALV Talent Circuit, Tai feels more confident about breaking new ground in the industry. “We’ve actually signed up with him like two or three years

ago,” he explains. “But because we got busy with Cookies ‘n Cream [his sexy/novelty group with Phil. Volcanoes teammates Andrew Wolff and Chris Everingham], we got pretty busy with our own lives. Now that we’re back on track, I’m confident that Arnold can help me focus more on my acting.” How did Tai discover his gift as a showbiz performer/host? Was he always the fun, gregarious type? He muses, “I kinda knew I was a performer growing up as a young kid, performing at dances and events. I was also singing in the local church choir. I just didn’t take singing seriously growing up as I was more into acting and dancing. As I grew up, I knew that this would have an impact in my life in the future.” Asked about his ultimate showbiz dream, Eric says, “I’d really want to follow Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s footsteps and to also share what I know with people around the world, especially regarding fitness and aesthetics.” (ManilaTimes.net)

Earth Hour Steward Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski and WWF-Philippines National Ambassador Iza Calzado pledge their support for Earth Hour

Hour Steward” for four years already. For her environmental pledge this year, she revealed, “I think my pledge for 2016 is to be a little bit more conscious of the small acts that we can do at home and as a family. I think there’s always something new to discover and a new way of doing things. Maybe this year, I will try to do a little bit more natural with the things that we use at home.” Calzado and Cojuangco will be joining long-time WWF National Ambassadors Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez, as well as other advocates and supporters in celebrating 2016’s Earth Hour at the Quezon City Memorial Circle (QCMC). Before, during and after the actual switching off lights from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Earth Hour Philippines and WWF-PH have lined up different activities. “We thought it but fitting to go back to the roots of Earth Hour. We want to show that things are possible,” noted lawyer Angela Consuelo Ibay, director of Earth Hour Philippines. One thing that Filipinos must watch out for is the Bambike. It can a power generator and light up a panel when

used unceasingly. During the one-hour lights out, advocates will continuously pedal and pass the task from one to another to keep the place lighted. A solar power developer will also put up solar panels at the QCMC. The batteries powered by the solar panels will then be used to light up the venue at night. “We are excited. We are really trying to make it as low carbon as possible, to show that even as you switch off from the grid, you can actually switch on to using kinetic energy,” Ibay added. And to put an extra dose of entertainment value to the event, there will also be cultural performances and acoustic artists who will complement the quietness of the night. Finally, Ibay called on Filipinos to also mark Earth Hour in their own ways besides attending the festivities. “We also tell people that it’s not just coming to our event. If they want to celebrate Earth Hour in their own home, that’s better because it also lessens the carbon foot print,” Ibay concluded.

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