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Volume 16 - No. 40 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages
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Duterte says Yellows, Reds unite to oust him by NESTOR
CORRALES Inquirer.net
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte claimed on Wednesday, Oct. 4 that members of the Liberal Party (LP) and the communist rebels were in an alliance to remove him from the presidency. “But what is really very clear is ‘yung Left pati––ang kaalyado ng Left is, ng mga Bayan is the‌ mga‌ ‘yung mga dilaw,â€? Duterte said in a press conference in MalacaĂąang. Yellow refers to the political color of the LP, Duterte’s political opponents.
“Gusto nila ako paalisin dito sa MalacaĂąang. O ‘di bigyan mo akong panahon magbalot. Eh basta-basta na lang tayo‌ But, I will show to the Republic that we have a very serious problem with our government officials,â€? Duterte said. The president has said he was no longer interested with the resumption of the peace talks with the communists following the series of attacks carried out by the New People’s Army (NPA) against government forces. When asked if Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales
USA
DATELINE Congress fails to renew Children’s Health Insurance Program by budget deadline FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA
Congressional committee introduces new replacement childcare bill
AS Washington continues the battle over the future of American health care, the United States Congress over the weekend failed to renew federal funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), allowing the program to expire by the end of the year. CHIP is a program created under Medicaid that has funded affordable healthcare for nearly 9 million children of low-income families. Through the program, states receive federal funding to establish low-cost health insurance for children. Congress was set to re-establish the $15
were behind destabilization plots against him, Mr. Duterte claimed they were part of the “concerted effortâ€? to oust him. “In fairness also to the ladies, actually [they are] just part of the concerted effort which I cannot clearly state would be a part of the program ng Left,â€? Duterte said. In the same press conference, Duterte said he would file impeachment complaints against Sereno and Morales. Earlier, Duterte said that Sereno and Morales are being used by his political opponents to destabilize his government. â–
SIXTH VISIT. President Rodrigo Duterte made his sixth visit to Marawi City on Monday, October 2, where he led the inauguration of the Bahay Pagasa Project at Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa that is intended for the residents of Marawi who were internally displaced due to the conict in the area. Malacaùang photo by Robinson Niùal
Las Vegas gunman’s Filipina girlfriend said she had no knowledge of plan by RAE
ANN VARONA AJPress
MARILOU Danley, the Filipino girlfriend of Las Vegas shooter Stephen Paddock, said she had no knowledge of Paddock’s plan when meeting with the FBI at the Los Angeles Federal Building on Wednesday, October 4. Investigators are hoping she can provide key information on what led to Paddock’s
shooting rampage that left at least 59 people dead and over 500 injured in what is being considered the deadliest shooting attack in modern U.S. history. “I knew Stephen Paddock as a kind, caring, quiet man,� said Danley in a statement read by her attorney on Wednesday. “He never said anything to me or took any action that I was aware
Marilou Danley Photo courtesy of Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
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by
RESS
THE Senate Judiciary Committee held a congressional hearing for Trump administration’s ending of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) on Tuesday, October 3, just two days before many DACA recipients must renew their permits. The hearing was the first of step of finding a solution for DREAMers, who are set to lose benefits once the program expires in
JUST days before the announcement of President Donald Trump’s latest version of the travel ban, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) quietly introduced an amendment to its record regulations that would allow federal officials to collect data from immigrants’ social media history. The DHS published the new rule in the Federal Register last week that would include “social media handles, aliases, associated identifiable information, and search results� as a part of an immigrant’s file. The new rule takes effect on Oct. 18. Affecting green card holders as well as naturalized citizens, the DHS — along with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — now has permission to look through immigrants’ posts on their Facebook,
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Senate committee holds hearing for DACA, future for DREAMers Panelists encourage Congress to pass a permanent, long-term plan for undocumented youth
Immigration applicants to be subjected to further gov’t surveillance by KLARIZE
MEDENILLA AJPress
Duterte challenges Sereno, Morales: Let us open our bank books by DANA
SIOSON
AJPress
PHILIPPINE President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, October 2, challenged Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno and Ombudsman Conchita Morales to join him and
There is still tight security and police presence along Las Vegas Boulevard where Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is located. On Sunday night, October 1, Stephen Paddock sent bullets and terror down on thousands attending a country music concert from his 32nd oor hotel room in Mandalay. Paddock killed at least 59 people and injured 527 more in the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history. AJPress photo by Robert Macabagdal
Homeland Security Cayetano: PH open to UN probe to begin collecting but asks for someone ‘without bias’ immigrants’ social AJP media information THE Philippine government is ready to welcome experts from the United Nations (UN) who would conduct an objective assessment of human rights situation in the country, Philippine Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said. Cayetano relayed this message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during their first meeting in New York on Friday, September 30, according to a statement from the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). “We will fully cooperate and work with you on a rationale, open, fair dialogue on our campaign against crime and illegal drugs,� Cayetano told the Secretary-General. The top diplomat, however, requested the international body to
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make their bank accounts public. In a speech before the government troops and displaced residents of Marawi City, the president maintained that he has never committed any corrupt practices as he denied anew the allegations
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PH Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano Inquirer.net photos
Agnes Callamard, UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial killings
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october 6-12, 2017 • NorcAL ASIAN JoUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
From the Front Page
Las Vegas gunman’s Filipina girlfriend... PAGE A1 t of that I understood in any way to be a warning that something horrible like this was going to happen.� Danley — a 62-year-old Filipina who holds an Australian passport — met with FBI at the Los Angeles Federal Building on Wednesday after arriving at the Los Angeles International Air-
port (LAX) from the Philippines Tuesday night, Oct. 3. “I am devastated by the deaths and injuries that have occurred and my prayers go out to the victims and their families and all those who have been hurt by these awful events,� said Danley. Her lawyer said Wednesday, that she intends to fully coop-
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erate with the investigation on Paddock. Defense attorney Matthew Lombard said Danley was not expecting the $100,000 Paddock sent to her in the Philippines a few days before the shooting, and was worried he was breaking up with her. A source close to Danley’s family claimed the money was to help the family build a home. According to NBC News, law enforcement were unsure of why the money was sent, but a source close to Danley’s family claimed the money was to help the family build a home. “I was grateful, but honestly, I was worried, that first, the unexpected trip home, and then the money, was a way of breaking up with me,� she added. “It never occurred to me in any way whatsoever that he was planning violence against anyone.� The shooting from Paddock’s 32nd floor Mandalay Bay Resorts and Casino room began Sunday night at around 10:08 p.m. over the Route 91 Harvest Festival, a country music festival which was just ending its third and last day of weekend festivities. Over 22,000 people were in attendance. The festival’s headliner, country singer Jason Aldean, was rushed off stage mid-song, while witnesses initially thought the gun sounds were fireworks. Sheriff Joseph Lombardo of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department said Tuesday afternoon that Danley was still a “person of interest� due to her close relationship to Paddock. “She has probably the best insight into the mind of Paddock prior to him killing all these people,� Steve Gomez, a former FBI agent, told ABC News on Tuesday. “So they definitely want to hear from her what was going on in his life.� Police were first prompted to suspect Danley’s involvement in the shooting after Paddock had used her ID documents to check into the 32nd-floor hotel room. She was later ruled out as a person of interest, as she was believed to be either in the Philippines or Japan with friends. Antonette Mangroband, a spokeswoman for the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI), confirmed that Danley had been in
PALACE VISIT. Horacio Castillo Jr., his wife Carmina and their daughter listen to President Rodrigo Duterte who promised that justice will be served for the hazing death of their son, Horatio III. The Department of Justice opened the preliminary investigation into the hazing death the same day that President Rodrigo Duterte met Horacio’s parents in Malacaùang on Wednesday, Oct. 4. ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma
Cayetano: PH open to UN probe... PAGE A1 t send representatives who have “no bias against the Philippines.� He specifically ruled out UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial killings Agnes Callamard, saying she had already “prejudged the human rights situation in the country� and even referred to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte as a “murderer.� “How can someone who is in league with our political opposition conduct a fair and objective assessment of our human rights situation?� Cayetano said. He added, “All we want is an impartial assessment and not outright condemnation to help us understand the extent of the problems that we are confronted with.� Callamard has been a vocal critic of Duterte’s so-called drug war and of the alleged thousands of summary executions and human
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rights abuses linked to his antinarcotics campaign. At one point, she described campaign against illegal drugs “cruel.� Last August, she reiterated her call that “all unlawful deaths must be investigated.� But Cayetano clarified that the Philippine government values human rights. “We’re not turning our back on human rights,� he maintained. “Our campaign against crime and illegal drugs is not intended to violate human rights; it is intended protect the human rights of our people.� He also blamed the western media for supposedly exaggerating the human rights situation in the country. “There are real problems but perceptions have overtaken us in western media that make it appear the situation is worse than it actually is,� Cayetano said.
CHR defends Callamard Defending Callamard, Philippine Commission on Human Rights Chair (CHR) Chito Gascon said the UN rapporteur is known globally for her “truthfulâ€? work. “Special Rapporteur Callamard has longtime experience in human rights work that she is globally recognized for her competence and professionalism,â€? Gascon told Inquirer. “She conducts her work around the world purposively‌dealing with facts as she sees them. She is just being truthful,â€? he added. The CHR chair also expressed that it is Cayetano who should be “first to understand and appreciate that the UN system takes the process of vetting persons [who are] given particular responsibility to conduct human rights investigations under the Special Rapporteur Mandate System.â€? n
Homeland Security to begin...
Twitter or Instagram accounts, adding to the increased government surveillance of immigrants’ internet activity since the beginning of former President Barack Obama’s administration. In short, the government will now be able to obtain information on any immigrant through all available digital means. “This amendment does not u PAGE A4 represent a new policy,� the DHS said in a statement. “DHS, in its law enforcement and immigration process capacity, has and continues to monitor publicly available social media to protect the homeland. In an effort to be transparent, to comply with existing regulations, and due to updates in the electronic immigration system, DHS decided to update its corresponding Privacy Act system of records.� According to Buzzfeed News, which first broke the news, the new rule may affect U.S. citizens who interact with immigrants; government officials may be given clearance to look through conversations between U.S. citizens and immigrants who pose a threat. Although social media is usually reserved for intimate interactions with friends and family, the DHS sees these accounts as possible places that may determine a person’s threat level. Since its announcement, the rule has raised concerns over privacy. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) spoke out against the rule in a statement saying it’s another attempt to demean immigrants’ basic rights. “This Privacy Act notice makes clear that the government intends to retain the social media information of people who have immigrated to this country, singling out
a huge group of people to maintain files on what they say,� ACLU National Political Director Faiz Shakir said in a statement. “This would undoubtedly have a chilling effect on the free speech that’s expressed every day on social media. This collect-it-all approach is ineffective to protect national security and is one more example of the Trump administration’s antiimmigrant agenda.� As the Asian Journal previously reported, the announcement of the new rule was introduced a few days before Trump announced the latest version of the controversial travel ban, which bans travel from at least eight countries and implements tight security restrictions to those that pose a threat to the U.S. The interest in including social media in the immigration vetting process dates back to the 2015 terrorist attack in San Bernardino, wherein the two suspects, Tashfeen Malik and her husband Syed Rizwan Farook, exchanged private online messages expressing commitment to the jihad movement. Since then, immigration officials and Washington lawmakers grew increasingly concerned over the use of social media by sympathizers of jihadist groups like the Islamic State (IS). As a part of a bipartisan effort, members of Congress began urging the DHS to adopt new methods in collecting data that could lead to the capture of of potential terrorist threats. Congressional Democrats called upon the DHS to include social media in its data collection methods following the San Bernardino attacks in hopes to stifle terrorist activity linked to IS. “We believe these checks, focused on possible connections
to terrorist activity, should be incorporated into DHS’s vetting process for visa determinations, and that this policy should be implemented as soon as possible,� a group of Democratic senators wrote in a letter. In early 2017, the DHS inspector general published a report that found that the existing programs that utilize social media when screening immigration applicants lacked “criteria for measuring performance to ensure they meet their objectives.� The White House approved a new questionnaire in May wherein visa applicants must fill out that requests social media handles and accounts created within the last five years, in addition to reporting 15 years worth of biological information. The Trump administration has maintained an interest in including social media in the vetting process despite there being no empirical evidence that those methods are reliable, as indicated in USCIS presidential transition records. “Yesterday at our briefing with [Trump’s] Landing Team, one of the things they mentioned they’d be interested in seeing was guidance that we use regarding social media use and when/how we can use social media,� wrote one White House senior adviser in December. According to the records, the USCIS asserted that immigration benefits were denied solely on the findings uncovered through social media vetting. Additionally, three refugee pilot programs used to screen social media accounts found that they did not link to any national security concerns, even for applicants that were considered national security threats. n
Duterte challenges Sereno... PAGE A1 t that he has billions of illegally amassed wealth. The president also insisted that his total assets would not reach P40 million even if properties he inherited from his father—late Davao Gov. Vicente Duterte—were included in the computation. “I have told you that mine could not be more than P40 million. It is a lifetime savings. I’m 72 now, I started working when I was 27, I became prosecutor along with the land I inherited from my father,� Duterte remarked. But if anyone can prove otherwise, the president said, “You can shoot me or overthrow me.� He challenged the Chief Justice and the Ombudsman to “resign� with him. He also dared them to open their bank accounts with him before Congress to show the Filipino people who was really corrupt. “Justice Sereno and I can resign, we give problems to Filipinos. The Ombudsman says I have billions. We can sign and bring our bank books to Congress. They can give the three of us a table, and we sign. We show our bank (accounts),� the president said.
As he accused both Morales and Sereno of corruption, Duterte went on to say, “That’s my challenge to every government officials and those who are pretending to be clean. Let us open our bank books so the people will know who are thieves and who are not.� Last week, the Office of the Ombudsman begun its probe into the allegations of Senator Antonio Trillanes IV that the president and his family amassed ill-gotten wealth. But Duterte, claiming that Morales herself was corrupt, vowed that he will not to recognize the investigation being conducted by the anti-graft body. “I will not submit jurisdiction to the ombudsman because it’s a lousy thing,� he said in a speech during the oathtaking of new officers of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) local chapter in Davao City last Saturday, September 30. Duterte also slammed overall Deputy Ombudsman Arthur Carandang for saying that the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) provided his family’s bank records. The AMLC, how-
Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno Philstar.com photo
ever, denied that it gave records to the Ombudsman, clarifying that the latter’s request was still being evaluated. The president claimed that the supposed report of the AMLC on his bank transactions were “fabricated� and “illegally obtained.� “Waving fabricated evidence in front, lying through his teeth in front of the nation. And then you want me to submit to the jurisdiction of the Ombudsman and who will now investigate?� Duterte said. Carandang has been authorized by Morales to investigate the bank transactions of the Duterte family based on Trillanes’ complaint. Morales previously said she has inhibited herself from acting on any case filed against the Duterte family as her nephew, lawyer Manases Carpio, is married to Duterte’s daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio. n
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Dateline USa
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 6-12, 2017
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Health Net awards $1.5 million to help close insurance gap, improve quality of care and enhance health outcomes 10 recipients are in Northern California, the Central Valley and Los Angeles, grants and investments are core components of company’s efforts to transform the health of the communities it serves, one person at a time
PARK LAUNCH. Dr. Eduardo Janairo (2nd from left), Regional Director of Department of Health-Mimaropa, and Marinduque Gov. Carmencita Reyes (2nd from right) lead the ceremonial ribbon cutting during the launching of the Carbon Neutral Garden and Oxygen Park held at Marinduque State College in Boac on Tuesday, Oct. 3. With them are Imelda Diaz (left) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Marinduque and Dr. Merian Catajay-Mani (right) of MSC. PNA photo by Ben Briones
Congress fails to renew Children’s... PAGE A1 t billion allocation towards CHIP, which had been backed by Democrats and Republicans since it was passed in 1997. The deadline to take action in CHIP’s renewal was Sept. 30. A delay in renewing the program may have been the result of Congress’ ongoing saga of the Obama-era Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA). Agreement on renewing the program was reached as recently as midSeptember, according to Bruce Lesley, president of children’s advocacy group First Focus told the Los Angeles Times. “Momentum was building,” Lesley said of the plan to renew CHIP but as soon as Graham-Cassidy, the GOP health bill looking to repeal and replace the ACA, was introduced “we couldn’t even get a meeting. No one was even taking our calls.” If Congress doesn’t take action to reinstate CHIP, states’ children health programs that are under CHIP may be forced to deplete their resources or even shut down. The Children’s Partnership, a children’s non-profit advocacy group in California, warns of dire consequences with the end of funding for CHIP. Mayra Alvarez, president of the organization, said that CHIP was essential in providing access to health care for children and their families and urges Congress for the program’s reauthorization. “The consequences of not passing a clean CHIP reauthorization bill could have serious implications for the 1.4 million children in California who depend on CHIP for coverage,” Alvarez said in a statement sent to the Asian Journal. “Without federal support, California will have to make difficult decisions that will undoubtedly impact the health and well-being of millions of children across the State. The successful CHIP program has long had bipartisan support in Congress, so vague promises of action later in the year are not enough. We urge Congress to move forward
with a clean CHIP reauthorization bill immediately and make sure they put our children, our future first.” However, the Senate Finance and House Energy Commerce committees submitted a bipartisan bill on Monday evening that would extend CHIP funding for the next five years with a gradual decrease of the 23 percentage point funding increase guaranteed under the ACA by 2020. The new reauthorization bill, called the Helping Ensure Access for Little Ones, Toddlers and Hopeful Youth by Keeping Insurance Delivery Stable Act of 2017 (HEALTHY KIDS Act), was introduced by Sens. Orrin Hatch (RUtah) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and didn’t specify how the government would pay for the funding extension. Former President Bill Clinton signed CHIP into law in 1997 and has had overwhelming bipartisan support. CHIP was pivotal in reducing the amount of uninsured children from 14 percent in 1997 to 4.5 percent in 2015. Approximately 1.3 million children in California are enrolled in public health programs through CHIP, the highest enrollment rate of any state that runs out of funding this year. About 3 out of 4 of those children are children of color. The program provided a whole host of medical services for underprivileged children: routine check-ups, immunizations, emergency services, prescriptions and inpatient and outpatient hospital care to name a few. In addition to providing coverage for children, CHIP also provides for more than 370,000 pregnant women a year. Though current authorization has expired the program’s funding, states may use any unspent money to continue their children’s health programs under CHIP. Many states, including California and Arizona, are slated to run out of money before the year ends, but most have enough to last until next summer. (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
LOS ANGELES – Health Net, Inc. (“Health Net”), one of California’s largest health insurance companies, is awarding a combined $1.5 million to 10 health care and community-based organizations across the state to help close the insurance gap, improve the quality and availability of health care and enhance health outcomes in medically underserved communities. These grants are supported by Health Net’s Community and Infrastructure Investment Program, created as a result of the Undertakings agreed to by Health Net and the California Department of Managed Health Care as a condition of the department’s approval of the merger between Centene Corporation and Health Net, Inc. “Increasing the number of insured individuals is an important part of our efforts to transform the health of the communities we serve,” said Steve Sell, president of Health Net of California, Inc. “We are partnering with key health care providers to help them expand their services and capacity for serving patients. By supporting these organizations, we are helping Californians be well and stay well.” The organizations receiving the grants support a wide range of programs and initiatives that directly address many of the unmet needs of the state’s most underserved communities. Invest-
ments in these organizations, through Health Net’s Community & Infrastructure Investment Program, are intended to grow coverage in health insurance programs and help individuals find the care they need. “Many of the recipients are committed to providing culturally relevant programs, education and services focused on medical, dental and behavioral health care to underserved populations,” said Carol Kim, vice president of Community Investments & Public Affairs for Health Net. “And they are committed to expanding outreach efforts to help individuals enroll and retain Medi-Cal and Covered California coverage and navigate the health care system.” The Recipients Northern California • Ampla Health: $150,000 to facilitate access to healthcare, educate consumers about the importance of good health and help families enroll in and renew their Medi-Cal and Covered California coverage. • Sacramento Covered: $150,000 to develop, integrate and implement Medi-Cal and Covered California retention tools, protocols and strategies. Central Valley • Centro La Familia Advocacy Services: $100,000 to support the Aseguré Su Bienstar (Secure Your Wellbeing) program, which
helps increase awareness of the benefits and requirements of Medi-Cal enrollment through education and outreach activities at health fairs, community forums and workshops. • Community Health Initiative of Kern County: $100,000 to increase enrollment and retention in the Medi-Cal program as part of the “Good Health Starts at Your Medical Home” program that serves largely agricultural communities. Los Angeles • East Valley Community Health Center: $100,000 to educate individuals on their health plan benefits and how to access healthcare, and to increase access to social service resources. • Institute for High Quality Care: $500,000 to support safety net healthcare providers statewide by increasing their capacity to apply quality improvement tools and techniques to positively affect their required performance and quality measures, including HEDIS. And to design a program to increase the number of MediCal providers engaging in, and sustaining, quality improvement efforts. • Maternal & Child Health Access: $100,000 to implement enrollment and retention strategies, primarily for Medi-Cal, and advocate on behalf of Medi-Cal beneficiaries. • Northeast Valley Health Cor-
poration: $100,000 to implement Medi-Cal and Covered California enrollment and retention strategies and provide education on navigating the healthcare system. • Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers: $100,000 to educate local residents about enrolling in health coverage for low-income and undocumented adults and children, and provide care-coordination when patients are admitted to or treated in the emergency department at California Hospital Medical Center. • The Children’s Clinic: $100,000 to increase enrollment and retention, primarily in MediCal, through enhanced in-reach and outreach activities to help improve re-enrollment rates. About Health Net Health Net, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), provides and administers health benefits through group, individual, Medicare (including the Medicare prescription drug benefit commonly referred to as “Part D”), Medicaid and dual eligible programs. Health Net also offers access to behavioral health, substance abuse and employee assistance programs, and managed health care products related to prescription drugs. For more information on Health Net, please visit the company’s website at www.healthnet.com. n
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Dateline USa
october 6-12, 2017 • NorcAL ASIAN JoUrNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
New legislation protecting consumers with automatic service purchases signed
SB 313 requires businesses signing up consumers for free trial services to disclose the cost of any automatic renewal of the product
SENATE PROBE. Philippine National Police Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa (right) attends the Senate probe into the killings of Carl Angelo Arnaiz, Reynaldo De Guzman, and Kian Delos Santos, at the Senate in Pasay City on Monday, October 2. Also in photo are Department of Justice Sec. Vitaliano Aguirre (middle), Public Attorney’s Office Chief Persida Rueda Acosta (2nd from left) and a witness (left). PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan
Senate committee holds hearing for DACA... PAGE A1 t March 2018. In September, the Trump administration made an astonishing announcement that it would phase-out DACA, which has provided nearly 800,000 undocumented youth with renewable two-year permits for valid work authorization and protection from deportation. In his opening statements, committee chairman Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) denounced DACA, which he said “never operated in the way it was supposed to,” referencing one case where a DACA recipient was arrested for child exploitation. Despite his criticisms of DACA, Grassley expressed the administration’s “empathy” for DREAMers “who came to this country through no fault of their own.” “The wind-down is simple: to get Congress to adopt a longerterm solution — a legislative one,” Grassley said at the hearing. “So here we are, almost a month after the administration’s announcement, and now’s the time to start considering a path forward with earnest.” DACA recipient and UC Berkeley graduate Denisse Marquez, who arrived in the U.S. from Mexico in 1990, calls DACA “the answer that lifted the ceiling to my educational
and career ambitions.” Marquez is currently a medical student at Mount Sinai in New York, and with the termination of DACA, she said her goals will be once again “unreachable.” Although she spoke highly of DACA, she proposed Congress to come up with legislation to provide a long-term solution and suggested reviving the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. A revived version of the DREAM Act was first introduced in 2001 but hasn’t been passed despite several bipartisan efforts. In response to Trump’s rescission of DACA, a bipartisan effort led by Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Lindsey Graham (RS.C.) called for the Senate to promptly pass the DREAM Act before DACA expires. “I understand that it can be difficult to relate to this situation,” Marquez told the committee. “However, you do know what it’s like to make investments in your future; you have invested in your education, pursued your career aspirations, applied for jobs, and made a living to provide for yourselves and your families. I ask that you and your colleagues restore these opportunities for us as well.”
According to a Politico/ Morning Consult poll from last month, 76 percent of Americans — from both parties — support granting DREAMers citizenship or legal permanent residency. DACA recipients whose permits expire by March 5, 2018 must turn in their renewal applications by Thursday, October 5. Attorneys encourage those to complete renewal by Tuesday and send their applications overnight via FedEx to be received by USCIS by Wednesday morning. A group of 37 senators — led by Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) — have been urging the administration to extend the Oct. 5 deadline, referencing the destruction brought by Hurricane Harvey, Irma and Maria that have stifled many DREAMers’ applications. “These major hurricanes significantly disrupted day to day living and operations in these states and territories,” the lawmakers wrote. “It would be appropriate for the government to extend the October 5, 2017 deadline nationwide to allow individuals adequate time to meet the government’s recent request.” DACA provided a profound impact on all undocumented youth, especially Asian DREAM-
SACRAMENTO – Sen. Bob Hertzberg, (D-Van Nuys), announced on Friday, September 28, that Gov. Jerry Brown has signed his legislation that protects consumers who sign up for automatic renewal purchases by requiring disclosure of the cost and greater ease in canceling the arrangements. SB 313 requires businesses that offer online signups for services or subscriptions that are automatically renewed to also offer a similarly straightforward way online to stop the renewal. Businesses often sign consumers up for a free trial offer of a product or service without clear-
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Spotify. While current law says the terms of trial offers and automatic renewals must be conspicuously posted on websites or communicated directly to consumers, canceling the service can be difficult to do. The legislation was sponsored by the Consumer Federation of California. “SB 313 promotes basic fairness by ensuring that consumers know exactly what they are agreeing to, and it makes it just as easy to cancel a subscription online as it is to sign up online,” said Richard Holober, Executive Director of the Consumer Federation of California. n
Malacañang: Pres. Trump visit to show ‘improving Philippines-US ties’ by Jhoanna
Ballaran Inquirer.net
MALACAñANG on Saturday, Sept. 30 confirmed United States President Donald Trump’s visit to Manila in November to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and East Asian Summit conferences. “We confirm U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the Philippines this November,” presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement. “President Trump’s visit underscores the improving Philippine-U.S. ties and President [Rodrigo] Duterte is looking forward to welcoming the U.S. President in Manila,” he added.
“As host country, we hope to make the event productive and pleasant to our foreign guests. We will let them experience our world-famous Filipino hospitality to make sure they would have good memories of their stay in the Philippines,” he said. Tensions had marred the relations between the two countries as Duterte declared his pivot to China and unleashed tirades against the U.S., whose officials, including former President Barack Obama, criticized the administration’s violent crackdown against illegal drugs. U.S. lawmakers had also called for sanctions against the Philippines—including the halt of the sale of arms to the Philip-
pine National Police—as death toll linked to Duterte’s war on drugs mounted. The relations, however, eased as Trump assumed the presidency in November. Duterte had said he considered the U.S. President as his friend. During the 116th anniversary of the Balangiga attack on Thursday, Duterte said the Americans have “redeemed themselves a lot.” “There are so many factors involved but I’d rather be friendly to them now because aside from these episodes of, I said, sad incidents, overall I think the Americans also redeemed themselves a lot,” Duterte said in his speech. n
ers. Since its inception in 2012, more than 16,000 Asian immigrant youth — including between 4,000 and 6,000 Filipinos — were granted benefits and protection under DACA. David Palau, a recent graduate of Cal State LA, was brought to the U.S. from the Philippines when he was two years old. He told the Asian Journal that DACA has been “instrumental” in his academic success. “DACA opened doors for me
that I never thought I would get to open,” Palau, 25, told the Asian Journal at a DACA press conference in September. “Ending it means that people like me, people who just want to work and be a part of the American Dream, have to struggle again. After years of being able to do everything other American kids can do — even something as simple as driving — this feels like a hard blow to the stomach.”
“It would be great to have a path to citizenship like the DREAM Act, but what do we do until then, you know? It just feels like we’re in limbo right now, and there are so many of us just waiting to find out what will happen with our lives,” Palau said, adding that “it’s scary to think that the lives of hundreds of thousands of kids are in the hands of a few people in Washington.” (Klarize Medenilla/AJPress)
Las Vegas gunman’s Filipina girlfriend... PAGE A2 t
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ly informing consumers that it will be automatically renewed at some time in the future for a charge. “Clarity and transparency on automatic service purchases benefit consumers and enhance the marketplace,” Hertzberg said. “Consumers need to know what they are signing up for and that they can just as easily cancel any service or subscription online as when they started it online.” In recent years, consumer complaints regarding automatic service renewals have triggered numerous lawsuits, including class-action lawsuits filed against Hulu, Dropbox and
the Philippines since September 25. The relationship between Paddock and Danley was not immediately known, but new information has since been emerging as people who knew them come forward. Born in the Philippines on December 12, 1954, Danley later moved to Queensland, Australia where she married a local and became an Australian citizen. She later moved to the U.S. with her daughter in the late 1980s, according to Australia’s ABC. There, she married a FedEx auditor, Geary Danley from Arkansas in 1990. “She’s probably one of the most happy, outgoing, full-of-life people I’ve ever known,” said Geary’s daughter, Diane Waltrip, of her former stepmother to the New York Times. “Everyone who has ever met her likes her.” Paddock’s younger brother Eric Paddock, said Danley met Stephen while she was working as a high-limit hostess for Club Paradise at the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nevada. According to a deleted LinkedIn account, Danley had worked as a “gambling and casino professional” in Reno from 2010 to 2013. It was in 2013 that Paddock and Danley were said to have started dating after Danley left Geary, whom she later divorced in 2015. “They were adorable — big man, tiny woman. He loved her. He doted on her,” said Eric, adding that the Paddock and Danley often gambled together. “She was probably one of the only I’ve ever seen that he’d go out of his way to do a little thing for. He went out of this way to be nice to her. This is not something Steve does — go out of his way.” Workers at the Starbucks in the Virgin River Casino in Mesquite, Nevada — where Paddock and Danley reportedly lived — shared a different perspective on the couple and said Paddock had a “nasty habit of berating Danley in public.” The Starbuck’s supervisor Esperanza Mendoza told the Los Angeles Times that Paddock would often get mad at Danley when she would ask to use his casino card for purchases. “He would glare down at her and say — with a mean attitude — ‘You don’t need my casino card for this. I’m paying for
your drink, just like I’m paying for you.’ Then she would softly say, ‘OK’ and step back behind him. He was so rude to her in front of us,” said Mendoza. Two women identified to be Danley’s sisters shared with Australia’s 7 News Sydney that Danley was sent away to the Philippines by Paddock. “I know that she don’t know anything as well like us,” said Danley’s sister. “She was sent away. She was away so that she will not be there to interfere with what he’s planning.” Eric Paddock had a similar comment and told the Washington Post that his brother had “manipulated her to be as far away from here and safe when he committed this.” Danley’s sister added that Danley did not even know of her trip to the Philippines beforehand. “She didn’t even know that she was going to the Philippines, until Steve said, ‘Marilou, I found you a cheap ticket to the Philippines’,” said Danley’s sister. “In that sense, I thank him for sparing my sister’s life. But that won’t be to compensate the 59 people’s lives,” she added. “Marilou Danley is my sister. She is a good person and gentle soul. A mother, a grandmother, a sister, a friend.” Motive still under investigation As Danley submits to questioning, the motive behind the attack remains unclear as of this writing. Paddock — who has been reported to have been an accountant, and a licensed pilot who owned two planes among other properties — had no major run-ins with police prior. “We have no investigative information of background associated with this individual that is derogatory,” said Lombardo on Monday. “The only thing we can tell is he received a citation several years ago; that citation was handled as a matter of normal practice in the court system.” Lombardo initially described Paddock as a “lone wolf”, saying that he was believed to have acted alone in the shooting. Upon raiding his suite, the SWAT team found Paddock dead from a self-inflicted shot to the head. Investigators also found cameras both inside and outside the suite — cameras were found in the door’s peephole, in the hallways, and on a service cart. “It was pre-planned, exten-
sively, and I’m pretty sure that he evaluated everything that he did in his actions, which is troublesome,” said Lombardo. Eric revealed to the Washington Post that Paddock was an avid gambler, often gambling in tens and thousands of dollars — Eric sent the FBI three years of text messages from his brother. “My brother is not like you and me. He plays high-stakes video poker,” he said. “He sends me a text that says he won $250,000 at the casino.” Their father, Benjamin Paddock, was reportedly on the FBI’s Top Ten Most Wanted list in the 1970s, and had a criminal record of bank robberies and prison escape. He was also diagnosed a psychopath. The Islamic State (IS) group claimed responsibility for the shootings, stating that Paddock had converted to Islam a few months ago, but FBI special agent Aaron Rouse said Monday that no connection to an international terrorist group has been determined as of yet. Law enforcement officials said 12 of the rifles found in Paddock’s Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino suite were outfitted with a “bump stock”, an apparatus that enables a gun to function like a machine gun. A total of 47 firearms were found by police in Paddock’s two houses and at the hotel. Paddock had apparently been purchasing weapons since 1982, including 33 in the past year, said San Francisco Field Division for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosive, Special Agent in Charge Jill A. Snyder, to CBS News on Wednesday. According to the Gun Control Act of 1968, sellers are only required to report sales of two or more handguns of the same buyer if the purchases were made at the same time, or within five business days of each other. Gun shops who have sold to Paddock in the past say he cleared background checks. Snyder said Paddock made his purchases in Nevada, Utah, California, and Texas. “No one can put the puzzles together. No one. Except Marilou,” said Danley’s sister. “She probably was even [more] shocked than us because she was more closer to him than us,” she added. “To be able to find out that the person you live with, that you love and live with can do such a thing, and you thought you know the person yourself.” n
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 6-12, 2017
DATELINE PHILIPPINES
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Trillanes names Duterte’s ‘source’ of fake bank accounts by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
MANILA - Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Tuesday, October 3, has identified the person who provided Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte the information on the lawmaker’s alleged offshore bank accounts. In a privilege speech before the Senate, Trillanes claimed in a privilege speech that a certain Daniel “Snooky” Cruz is the source of the “fake” bank documents. “Ang nag-imbento ay isang Daniel ‘Snooky’ Cruz. Ito pong taong ‘to nagpapanggap na siya raw ay isang well-connected sa [United States] embassy, dati raw siyang federal agent (The one who invented this is a certain Daniel “Snooky” Cruz. This man pretends that he is well-connected with the US embassy, that he is a former federal agent),” the senator said. Showing photos of Cruz with Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald dela Rosa and Duterte himself, Trillanes insinuated that Cruz is well-connected with officials from Malacañang. According to the senator, Cruz sold the bank details to Malacañang on August 31 for P10 million—of which P3 million went to Cruz, while the remaining amount went to their middlemen.
Trillanes said he got the information about the transaction from graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) working in Malacañang. “Binigay noong August 31, and true enough, may picture si Mr. Cruz and Mr. Duterte sa Malacañang on August 31, so talagang nahuli natin. Buti na lang may nagmamalasakit na PMAers na nagbisto kay Mr. Cruz at sinabi sa akin (He gave it on August 31 and true enough, there is a photo of Mr. Cruz and Mr. Duterte taken in Malacañang on August 31, so we really caught them. It’s good that there are PMAers who support us and exposed Mr. Cruz to us),” the senator said. “Again, si Mr. Daniel Cruz ay meron siyang mga connection sa Malacañang. Nakaakbay siya kay PNP [chief], well-connected siya (Now, Mr. Daniel Cruz has connections in Malacañang. Here he is seen with his arm around the PNP chief, he’s well-connected),” he added. Trillanes earlier flew to Singapore to personally disprove the chief executive’s allegations that the senator has millions of undeclared wealth in several foreign accounts. Duterte then admitted that he just “invented” the details of the bank accounts to “trick” Trillanes. The president later claimed that Trillanes closed his DBS ac-
count “online” before flying to Singapore—which was refuted by a spokesman for the bank, who said closing an account should be done in the client’s home branch in person. De Lima accounts Trillanes also insinuated that Cruz offered a cabinet official fake details of Senator Leila De Lima’s supposed bank accounts last year. But after validating the documents, the senator said the government figure did not release it after finding out that they were “fake.” “Ibinenta itong impormasyon na ‘to. Ginawa niya ito dati pa or last year for that matter, nagalok siya at nagbenta siya ng fake bank accounts ni Senator Leila de Lima. (This information was sold. He did it before or last year, for that matter. He offered and sold [information on] fake bank accounts of Senator Leila de Lima),” Trillanes said. The senator, however, did not identify the cabinet official. “Hindi nilabas kasi peke. Buti naman ‘di siya nasunog pero ‘di pa nadala dito si Mr. Snooky Cruz, pinalitan lang ibang detalye at binenta ulit sa Malacañang this time. (It was not released because it was fake. Good for him but Mr. Snooky Cruz did it again. He just changed a few details and sold it to Malacañang this time),” he added.
Aguirre files wiretapping case against Hontiveros by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
MANILA - Philippine Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday, October 2, filed a wiretapping complaint against Senator Risa Hontiveros in connection with the controversial capture of his phone message. In his complaint before the Pasay City prosecutor’s office, Aguirre said Hontiveros violated Republic Act 4200 or the Anti-Wiretapping Act when she publicized his exchange of text messages with a former congressman last month. Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday, Oct. 2 filed a wiretapping case against Sen. The justice secretary said he Risa Hontiveros at Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office—an office under his jurisdiction as justice would also file a separate ethchief. Philstar.com photo by Edd Gumban
HEARING ON KILLINGS INVOLVING CHILDREN. Senators JV Ejercito, Panfilo Lacson, Grace Poe and Bam Aquino on Monday, October 2, listen to the testimony of two witnesses who testified that 19 year old Carl Arnaiz, who was killed during a police operation in Caloocan City, was kneeling and handcuffed when he was allegedly shot dead by two policemen last August 18. Senate photo by Joseph Vidal
Cop recants testimony of PNP-sponsored killings by DANA
SIOSON AJPress
MANILA - A police officer has recanted his earlier testimony that his superiors supposedly ordered him to kill drug suspects, according to Senator Panfilo Lacson on Monday, October 2. Lacson, chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, said Police Officer 1 Vicent Tacorda withdrew his affidavit on June 29. “I have done some serious soul searching and I have come to realize that I love my organization,” Tacorda said in his July 3 letter read by Lacson. “I continue to hold it and its ranks in the highest respect despite some sad experiences I went through, which changed my heart; [that] I had expounded in an affidavit of recantation on
29 June 2017,” the police officer added. In his May 10 affidavit, Tacorda claimed that he and another cop were ordered to shoot drug suspects so that the Catanduanes police force would have contribution to President Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign against illegal drugs. He said they will be relieved from their post if they failed to deliver an “accomplishment of 5-10 deaths of drug suspects.” According to Tacorda, his superiors had prepared his needs to kill an alleged suspect—including a budget for his food and lodging, a picture of his target, and a handwritten note that read “Pusher ako, huwag tularan (I’m a pusher, don’t be like me), Bicol vigilante.” He also claimed that the operation was “well-coordinated with the chief of police.”
Tacorda resigned earlier in April, saying he could no longer stomach the supposed corruption and illegal practices within the Philippine National Police (PNP). Lacson said Tacorda was invited this Monday but did not attend the Senate hearing into the death of teenagers who were supposedly killed during police operations. Despite his recantation, the senator directed the PNP to present Tacoda in the next committee hearing. “Be that as it may, I’m instructing the PNP to produce Mr. Tacorda, PO1 Tacorda to appear in the next hearing para we can hear from him directly kung ano yung totoo sa kanyang testimony (so we could directly hear from him which of his testimony is true),” said Lacson.
ics complaint against the senator over the same leaked messages. Last month, Hontiveros released a photo of Aguirre which was “inadvertently” taken by a photojournalist during a Senate probe on September 5. In the photo, the justice secretary can be seen texting a certain “Cong Jing,” who, according to Hontiveros, is Volunteers
Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) member and former Negros Oriental Representative Jacinto “Jing” Paras. “Naturuan na ni Hontiveros yung testigo (Hontiveros already coached the witnesses). Her questions are leading questions,” Paras’ message to Aguirre read. Aguirre was seen typing a reply on his phone: “’Yon nga
sinasabi ko kanina dito. Very obvious. Kaya expedite natin ang cases ninyo vs her. (That’s what I’m saying. Very obvious. So let’s expedite your cases against her.)” But contrary to the senator’s claim, Aguirre insisted that the messages were captured “intentionally, maliciously and unlawfully.” PAGE A7
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OCTOBER 6-12, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
OPINION
One for Las Vegas
FEATURES
“IN moments of tragedy and horror, America comes together as one — and it always has. We call upon the bonds that unite us — our faith, our family, and our shared values. We call upon the bonds of citizenship, the ties of community, and the comfort of our common humanity. Our unity cannot be shattered by evil. Our bonds cannot be broken by violence. And though we feel such great anger at the senseless murder of our fellow citizens, it is our love that defines us today — and always will, forever.” This was the statement made by Pres. Donald Trump on Tuesday, Oct. 2, in light of the deadly mass shooting incident in Las Vegas, Nevada which claimed the lives of at least 59 victims and injured more than 500 people. It was a fun night on Sunday, Oct. 1, as a crowd of about 22,000 revealers gathered at an outdoor country music concert for the Route 91 Harvest Festival on Las Vegas Boulevard. Across the street, 64-year-old Stephen Paddock was settled in his hotel room 32 floors up at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. As country music singer Jason Aldean was performing, a rain of gunshots began pouring toward the celebrating crowd. “The gunshots lasted for 10 to 15 minutes. It didn’t stop,” a witness told CNN. It was Paddock. The lone wolf attacker was several feet southwest of the concert grounds and equipped with at least 23 weapons and two tripods when fired rifles—clip after
clip—out of two different windows in his hotel room. Paddock killed himself as authorities stormed his hideout. Authorities believe that Paddock acted alone, but they have yet to determine his motives. As more details begin to unravel in this gruesome incident, the world joins Americans as they pray for the victims and extend their condolences to the families they left behind. The Philippines extends its “deepest condolences to the families of the more than 50 victims who died because of the mass shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada. We likewise pray for the speedy recovery of the more than 500 people who were reported injured,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said during a Palace briefing. “We join the peace-loving people of the international community in denouncing this latest act of violence.” In this time of distraught, let us express our compassion and pay our respects to the victims of this
Editorial
ManilaTimes.net photo
senseless violence that disrupted what should have been a joyous occasion. They will be remembered not for giving a reason of mourning, but for uniting
the whole world amidst disorder, and making such occasion more meaningful, today and for years to come. (AJPress)
The Bernie Sanders plan to cover all Americans with universal health care HEALTH CARE is a right and not just a The Fil-Am privilege. This is the philosophy behind the Perspective plan proposed by Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders — a policy he has been advocating for years, and especial- GEL SANTOS-RELOS ly during the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Because it is a fundamental right, Sanders proposes a plan that would create a federally administered single-payer health care program. Sanders’ universal single-payer health care plan hopes to accord a comprehensive coverage for all Americans that will cover the entire continuum of health care, from inpatient to outpatient care; preventive to emergency care; primary care to specialty care, including long-term and palliative care; vision, hearing and oral health care; mental health and substance abuse services; as well as prescription medications, medical equipment, supplies, diagnostics and treatments. Under the Sanders proposal, patients will be able to choose a health care provider without worrying about whether that provider is in-network and will be able to get the care they need without having to read any fine print or trying to figure out how they can afford the out-ofpocket costs. Sanders said with this system, all you need to do is go to the doctor and show your insurance card. The plan means no more copays, no more deductibles and no more fighting with insurance compa-
Opinion
RICARDO SALUDO ONE way the corrupt try to look clean is to launch a crusade against corruption. The impressionable then think that someone waging war on graft would not engage in it. That’s how then President Benigno Aquino 3rd could unleash immense sleaze on the nation, and yet still be seen as “corrupt-free,” as his handpicked Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales lauded him last December. In fact, anomalies under Aquino were huge, even unprecedented in some respects, and are still burdening our people today. Take the mammoth anomalies in the transport department under Liberal Party stalwarts Mar Roxas and Jose Emilio Abaya. Due to an illegal license plate contract bid out and awarded with no budget allocation, hundreds of thousands of vehicles have no license plates, even if owners already paid P400 each for the illegally contracted
nies when they fail to pay for charges. Let me share with you the details of his plan as detailed on his website and what this proposal means for us Americans: Getting health care spending under con-
trol We outspend all other countries on the planet and our medical spending continues to grow faster than the rate of inflation. Creating a single, public insurance system will go a long way towards getting health care spending under control. The United States has thousands of different health insurance plans, all of which set different reimbursement rates across different networks for providers and procedures resulting in high administrative costs. Two patients with the same condition may get very different care depending on where they live, the health insurance they have and what their insurance covers. A patient may pay different amounts for the same prescription depending solely on where the prescription is filled. Health care providers and patients must navigate this complex and bewildering system wasting precious time and resources. By moving to an integrated system, the government will finally have the ability to stand up to drug companies and negotiate fair prices for the American people collectively. It will also ensure the federal government can track access to various providers and make smart investments
to avoid provider shortages and ensure communities can access the providers they need. Major savings for families and businesses Bernie’s plan will cost over $6 trillion less than the current health care system over the next ten years. The United States currently spends $3 trillion on health care each year—nearly $10,000 per person. Reforming our health care system, simplifying our payment structure and incentivizing new ways to make sure patients are actually getting better health care will generate massive savings. This plan has been estimated to save the American people and businesses over $6 trillion over the next decade. The typical middle-class family would save over $5,000 under this plan. Last year, the average working family paid $4,955 in premiums and $1,318 in deductibles to private health insurance companies. Under this plan, a family of four earning $50,000 would pay just $466 per year to the single-payer program, amounting to a savings of over $5,800 for that family each year. Businesses would save over $9,400 a year in health care costs for the average employee. The average annual cost to the employer for a worker with a family who makes $50,000 a year would go from $12,591 to just $3,100. How much will it cost? This plan has been estimated to cost $1.38 trillion per year. The plan would be fully paid for by: A 6.2 percent income-based health
care premium paid by employers — Revenue raised: $630 billion per year. A 2.2 percent income-based premium paid by households — Revenue raised: $210 billion per year.This year, a family of four taking the standard deduction can have income up to $28,800 and not pay this tax under this plan. A family of four making $50,000 a year taking the standard deduction would only pay $466 this year. Progressive income tax rates — Revenue raised: $110 billion a year. Under this plan, the marginal income tax rate would be: 37 percent on income between $250,000 and $500,000; 43 percent on income between $500,000 and $2 million; 48 percent on income between $2 million and $10 million. (In 2013, only 113,000 households, the top 0.08 percent of taxpayers, had income between $2 million and $10 million.); 52 percent on income above $10 million. (In 2013, only 13,000 households, just 0.01 percent of taxpayers, had income exceeding $10 million.) Taxing capital gains and dividends the same as income from work — Revenue raised: $92 billion per year. Warren Buffett, the second wealthiest American in the country, has said that he pays a lower effective tax rate than his secretary. The reason is that he receives most of his income from capital gains and dividends, which are taxed at a much lower rate than income from work. This plan will end the special tax break for capital gains and dividends on household income above $250,000. Limit tax deductions for rich — Rev-
enue raised: $15 billion per year. Under Bernie’s plan, households making over $250,000 would no longer be able to save more than 28 cents in taxes from every dollar in tax deductions. This limit would replace more complicated and less effective limits on tax breaks for the rich including the AMT, the personal exemption phase-out and the limit on itemized deductions. The Responsible Estate Tax — Revenue raised: $21 billion per year.This provision would tax the estates of the wealthiest 0.3 percent (three-tenths of 1 percent) of Americans who inherit over $3.5 million at progressive rates and close loopholes in the estate tax. Savings from health tax expenditures — Revenue raised: $310 billion per year. Several tax breaks that subsidize health care (health-related “tax expenditures”) would become obsolete and disappear under a single-payer health care system, saving $310 billion per year. Most importantly, health care provided by employers is compensation that is not subject to payroll taxes or income taxes under current law. This is a significant tax break that would effectively disappear under this plan because all Americans would receive health care through the new single-payer program instead of employerbased health care. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook. com/Gel.Santos.Relos
Yellow is the color of hypocrisy Mother, homeowner: Vote yes on Measure C to keep our neighbors in Pacifica
plates. Also bedeviled by incompetence or sleaze are driver’s license cards, also unissued by the millions because the Land Transportation Office under Aquino’s shooting buddy Virginia Torres (God rest her soul) delayed payments on the computerized licensing contractor. But the real bonanza was at the Bureau of Customs, where smuggling trebled to $26.6 billion in 2014, from less than $8 billion five years before. No wonder the system Aquino left “swallowed” Duterte appointee Col. Nicanor Faeldon, as Sen. Panfilo Lacson put it. When more than 2,000 cargo containers disappeared in 2011— the biggest spate of smuggling in Philippine history—Aquino never had it investigated. Imagine the racket the yellow camp would have made if that happened under Gloria Arroyo or Rodrigo Duterte. Still, the most pernicious and anti-democratic sleaze was the use of pork barrel and the illegal Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) to induce legislators to pass Aquino’s pet bills and oust impeachable officials he didn’t
like. The Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), the pork barrel scheme created by Aquino’s mother Corazon, more than doubled under him, from about P8 billion during the Arroyo years, to more than P20 billion from 2011 until the Supreme Court declared PDAF unconstitutional in 2013, and DAP too the following year. Plus: No less than the Supreme Court in its unanimous decision said that DAP funds were allocated to programs and projects not found in any budgetary appropriations enacted by Congress. Spending public funds in ways not authorized by budget laws constitutes malversation. So, the high court ordered Ombudsman Morales to probe and charge the “authors” of the P157-billion DAP. The hypocrisy continues Today, the yellow hypocrisy continues, now decrying moves to hold its stalwarts and appointees accountable for gross anomalies. It has balked at impeachment petitions against Aquino appointees Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Commission on Elections Chairman Andres Bautista, and
Ombudsman Conchita CarpioMorales. Is the Liberal Party and its allies in business, legal, and civil society groups saying that the issuance of Supreme Court resolutions without the constitutionally required en banc approval is not serious enough to warrant congressional investigation and prosecution? Plus, the alleged manipulation of the Judicial and Bar Council shortlists of nominees to court vacancies, including the post of Associate Justice, prompting the Supreme Court en banc to overrule the JBC? Is it now no longer right to impeach officials for not declaring tens or hundreds of millions of pesos in assets, like Sereno’s earnings from the NAIA Terminal 3 case, and most of Comelec Chair Bautista’s nearly P1 billion in bank deposits, as alleged by his estranged wife with passbooks and account statements? The yellows cheered when the LP-dominated Senate convicted Chief Justice Renato Corona for failing to declare dollar deposits covered by absolute secrecy—an offense that could have been corPAGE A7
Commentary
MELISSA SPENCER LIKE everywhere else in the Bay Area and San Mateo County, rents have been rising very quickly in Pacifica. It seems that every few weeks we hear of new ways the housing crisis is hurting our communities. Many working people, single mothers with children, and seniors who could not afford the increases have had to move out of town, even all the way out of California. As a homeowner in Pacifica, I know we need to vote for Measure C this November. A vote for Measure C is a vote to limit rent increases, and to require a real reason, or “just cause,” in order
to evict someone from their home. This measure will make it possible for many families, working people and seniors living in Pacifica to stay in their homes and community. In the two years that my young son has been at our local elementary school, he has lost two of his classmates due to the high cost of housing - one good friend moving out of state and the other moving almost to the Central Valley. Trying to establish roots with neighbors and other families at school is difficult especially if families are constantly moving away in seek of more affordable housing. Measure C would stabilize rents, meaning that rent increases would stay predictable and manageable. Rent increases would no longer mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unexpected costs for renters, which in the worst cases can force people to PAGE A7
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCtObeR 6-12, 2017
Robredo: Respect constitutional bodies like CHR, ombudsman by Gaea
Katreena Philstar.com
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CabiCo
MANILA — Vice President Leni Robredo called on Filipinos to respect constitutional institutions such as the Office of the Ombudsman and the Commission on Human Rights amid criticisms hurled at these agencies. Robredo, a human rights lawyer, noted that the 1987 Constitution ensures the perils of martial law would not happen again in the country through the creation of constitutional offices such as the CHR, Office of the Ombudsman, Civil Service Commission and Commission on Elections. “Kailangang galangin ang kasarinlang iginagawad ng Konstitusyon sa mga opisinang ito upang kanilang magampanan ang tungkuling panatilihing malinis at tapat ang gobyerno,” Robredo said in a statement. Robredo called on Filipinos to rally behind these agencies, particularly the Office of the Ombudsman, amid the threats of President Rodrigo Duterte directed against them. “Sa gitna ng mga kasalukuyang isyung kinakaharap ng mga constitutional offices, kailangan muli ang tibay ng loob ng bawat Pilipino. Sama-sama tayong manindigan para sa ating Sa-
WORSHIP RESUMES. Holy Mass is offered for the first time at the badly damaged St. Mary’s Cathedral inside the war-torn city of Marawi since fighting broke out on May 23. About 300 government troops battling Maute terrorists assisted in the Eucharist. Vice Pres. Leni Robredo
ligang Batas at mga demokratikong institusyon, kabilang ang isang walang kinikilingang Ombudsman,” she said. Duterte earlier threatened to form a commission that would investigate the supposed anomalies of the Office of the Ombudsman after the anti-graft agency announced that it was launching a fact-finding probe into the chief executive’s alleged clandestine wealth. He then dared Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno to resign with him. The president accused Morales of being involved in cor-
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ruption and for employing “selective justice.” Unfazed by the threats, the anti-corruption body vowed that it would proceed with the probe. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives voted during the plenary deliberations to give CHR a measly P1,000 budget for 2018 for allegedly not doing its job properly. But the House leadership eventually decided to restore the budget of CHR by giving it P508.7 million. However, the 2018 budget is still lower than the proposed P600 million funding.
attempt to deflect public attention.” Last week, Paras also lodged a wiretapping complaint against Hontiveros. ‘Yellows’ intensifying ouster plot In a statement on Tuesday, October 3, Aguirre claimed that the “yellows” — likely referring to the supporters of the opposition — have intensified its campaign to oust Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. “They, the yellows, are intensifying the actions against the president,” the justice secretary told reporters. The color “yellow,” and similar terms like “dilawan” and “yellowtards,” have been associated with the allies and members of the Liberal Party (LP), the political party of Duterte’s predecessor, Benigno Aquino III, which took the current role of opposition. Aguirre claimed that the corruption allegations against Duterte and his family are supposedly part of the opposition’s black propaganda. The justice secretary made the claim days after the Office of the Ombudsman announced that they are investigating the accusations of Senator Antonio Trillanes IV that the president and his family had billionsworth of ill-gotten wealth. Aguirre also disclosed that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is looking into local and foreign bank accounts of “yellow” personalities. “We have dug these bank accounts of opposition person-
Mother, homeowner: Vote yes on Measure C... PAGE A6 choose between food on the table and a roof over their heads. The city would limit rent increases to between 2 percent to 5 percent per year except when a renter moves out of an apartment, or when an owner makes the case to the housing commission for an exception. Many people believe that renters are already automatically protected against unfair evictions - but they aren’t. That’s why Mea-
sure C would protect people in Pacifica against unfair evictions by requiring a “just cause” for eviction. Evicting someone because of their skin color, or because the apartment owner wants to rent to someone with more money, for example, are not just causes. Measure C would also prevent unfair evictions by requiring the owner to pay relocation expenses of three months’ rent to the renter, if the owner evicts them in order to move in or remodel the apart-
Chinese forces harass Filipino ships near Pag-asa by PatriCia Lourdes Philstar.com
Viray
asa Island. The Department of Foreign Affairs is yet to validate the claims of Alejano. “We need to confirm this with our defense colleagues,” DFA spokesperson Rob Bolivar said. One of China’s artificial islands, Subi Reef, is near the sandbars. Beijing has installed military facilities in Subi Reef, which used to be a low-tide elevation. “The sandbars lie within 12 nautical miles of both Subi Reef and Pag-asa Island. However, the difference is that Subi Reef was once a low-tide elevation and was only later on reclaimed by China,” Alejano said. As a low-tide elevation, Subi Reef cannot generate territorial waters nor a 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. This was part of the July 2016 ruling
of the United Nations-back tribunal based in The Hague. Pag-asa Island, on the other hand, is a high-tide elevation feature and is the second largest island in the Spratly Group. The island is part of Palawan island in the disputed West Philippine Sea. According to reports, China is shifting away from its nine-dash line claim in the South China Sea for a new sovereignty claim in the disputed waters. The Washington Free Beacon reported that the Chinese Foreign Ministry has laid its “four sha” claim in a closed-door meeting with U.S. State Department officials. China’s new sovereignty claim covers maritime entitlements from four island groups in the disputed waters—the Pratas Islands, Paracel Islands, Spratly Islands and the Macclesfield Bank area. n
MANILA — Magdalo Partylist Rep. Gary Alejano expressed concerns over the rising tensions in Manila-claimed Pag-asa Island and its three sandbars. Alejano claimed that Chinese forces are employing new tactics in the disputed West Philippine Sea. “They are harassing our patrolling vessels by continuously sounding their sirens to signify their opposition to our vessels visiting or patrolling the sandbars,” Alejano said in a statement. The lawmaker said that he has alities, mostly ‘dilaw,’” Aguirre received information that three told reporters, without provid- vessels of Chinese maritime militia and a ship of the People’s ing specifics. The LP, in response, decried Liberation Army Navy have been Aguirre’s move as a “threat of spotted one to five nautical miles from the three sandbars of Pagpersecution.” “We consider the threat of persecution – especially from a Secretary whose resignation we have openly called for – a sorry, hardly unbiased attempt to divert the public’s attention away from these issues,” the LP said in a statement. The LP had repeatedly denied allegations of any ouster plot against Duterte. It further maintained that its members and allies had always adhered In this Monday, May 11, 2015, file photo, the alleged on-going reclamation of Subi Reef by China is seen from Pag-asa Island in the Spratly to its core values of integrity Islands in the South China Sea, western Palawan Province, Philippines. China’s campaign of island building in the South China Sea might soon quadruple the number of airstrips available to the People’s Liberation Army in the highly contested and strategically vital region. and people-centeredness. “These values compel us to speak up on issues such as the drug smuggling and corruption allegations against those close to the president and the murder PAGE A6 2011, she has exerted zero effort Rights lawyer and former De La of minors and innocents by in- rected without penalty under the in probing the mammoth smug- Salle University law dean Chel struments of the state, among law. So, why are they changing gling, even if it is so easy to simply Diokno warned of Duterte despoothers,” it added. their tune now that their appoin- grill all those who kept releasing tism. Last month, the Senate mi- tees are accused of hiding moun- boxes after dozens or hundreds Well, where were these lemonnority bloc, dominated by LP tains of cash? had vanished, so they will point tinted objectors when their idol members, reiterated its call for As for Ombudsman Morales, fingers at higher-ups who master- Aquino named his election lawyer Aguirre to resign from his post whose predecessor was im- minded the scam. Sixto Brillantes as Comelec chairover his supposed “unethical peached for allegedly favoring forAre all the foregoing gross and man, his Ateneo classmate Sereno actions as a public official” and mer President Gloria Arroyo, is it blatant anomalies worthy of the as Chief Justice, and the justice “propensity for spreading fake now wrong to hold Moales to the same congressional reckoning who swore him in as Ombudsinformation on those he tagged same standard of impartiality in which then-President Aquino de- man? as ‘dilawan,’” among others. Didn’t those three appointments dealing with the past administra- manded for CJ Corona and thenSenate minority bloc mem- tion which appointed her? Ombudsman Merceditas Gutier- also give the yellow gang immense bers include Trillanes of the influence over these independent Consider what this wrongly rez? Nacionalista Party (NP); and awarded paragon of partiality has Or does being named or favored constitutional bodies? Senators Franklin Drilon, done. Despite a unanimous Su- by him exempt officials from acAnd more to the point, are they Francis Pangilinan, Benigno preme Court ruling that programs countability, like the LP stalwarts now fighting tooth and nail to keep Paulo “Bam” Aquino IV, Leila and projects not appearing in any spared from pork barrel cases that clout in the Supreme Court, De Lima, and Hontiveros—all pertinent budgetary laws were allo- targeting opposition senators, the Comelec, and the OMB? of whom are members of the cated DAP funds—a textbook case prompting Catholic bishops to dePlainly, if Chief Justice Sereno, LP. n Comelec Chair Bautista, and Omof malversation—she has found cry “selective prosecution”? Decrying Duterte ‘despotism’ budsman Morales, along with no reason to charge Aquino, who A further argument raised their yellow backers, were keen signed every DAP disbursement, and merely slapped the wrist of against impeachment is the power to keep their offices from falling the other DAP author, former Bud- it could give President Duterte under the sway of Duterte appoinover the judiciary, the Comelec, tees, they should have kept their get Secretary Florencio Abad. ment. In the disappearance of more and the Office of the Ombudsman noses clean. But they didn’t. (MaI have seen signs around town that say we should vote No on than 2,000 cargo containers in if all their heads were removed. nilaTimes.net) Measure C. As a matter of fact, the real estate lobby is funding those would sacrifice millions from the lower the fee as necessary to make protect people who live in Pacifica misleading signs and the attempts city budget for Measure C. Actu- sure the program doesn’t cost the from the worst of the Bay Area’s housing crisis. to undermine Measure C. Our ally, Measure C is designed to pay city money. The housing crisis is hurting Please vote yes on Measure C. little city of Pacifica is a key piece for itself. The city would collect in their bigger plan - the real es- $19 per month - $25 in the first people right now and it will keep Keep our Filipino community here tate lobby is spending millions on year - for each apartment from the getting worse unless we do some- and keep our neighbors in Pacilocal elections and local measures owner, and owners can pass on thing about it. Let’s not wait until fica. the cost to renters. These fees will our neighbors are gone and the *** around the Bay Area. Melissa Spencer is a third-generation FilipinaThe real estate lobby is also go primarily to hire the hearing ex- real estate lobby runs this city. spreading the myth that Pacifica aminers. City Council will raise or By voting on Measure C, we can American currently residing in Pacifica.
Aguirre files wiretapping case...
PAGE A5 “It was never an inadvertent act, contrary to the claim of Sen. Risa Hontiveros in her privilege speech. I was targeted, I was singled out and it was premeditated,” he said. He added, “The precise timing of the taking or shooting of the photograph, the accuracy of the detail of the image taken and the strategically chosen vantage point all indicate that the media person being referred to intentionally focused his camera or her camera and used the same with the intention to intercept and capture my private text message.” Aguirre likewise challenged Hontiveros to present the journalist who supposedly took the photo. He condemned the incident, calling it a “shameless violation of a citizen’s right to the privacy of communication.” For her part, the senator reiterated that there was no intent to tap or intercept the justice secretary’s messages. Hontiveros also pointed out that his complaint “confirms the conspiracy hatched by Secretary Aguirre and his VACC to ‘expedite’ the filing of cases against [her].” She added that the case likewise confirmed that the “Cong. Jing” whom Secretary Aguirre was texting was former Representative Jacinto Paras. “Caught red handed and still making excuses. He wants to hide behind baseless allegations,” the senator said, calling Aguirre’s move “a desperate
ManilaTimes.net photo
Yellow is the color...
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october 6-12, 2017 • NorcAL ASIAN JoUrNAL
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 6-12, 2017
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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY OURNAL Green card marriages and social media accounts
Your Immigration Solution DEVIN M. CONNOLLY THERE are recent reports that the Department of Homeland Security will start reviewing the social media accounts of immigrants. This data collection can apply in countless scenarios, but is especially applicable when investigating requests for permanent resident status (green card) based on a marriage to a U.S. citizen. There is a common American saying that “desperate times call for desperate measures.” That may be true in some instances, but when thinking about the desperate act of marrying someone solely for a green card, the truth is that these desperate measures are likely to produce disastrous results. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (“USCIS”) refers to marriages entered into solely for immigration benefits as a “sham marriage.” However, people casually refer to it as a “green card marriage.” Regardless of the exact name though, we are all referring to the same thing – a foreign national marrying a U.S. citizen because they want a green card. Some people view this as a win-win scenario – the foreign national receives their green card and the U.S. citizen also receives a desired benefit, which is usually money. But you know who does not view this as a win-win scenario? The USCIS! Many people mistakenly believe that marrying a U.S. citizen is an easy way to obtain a green card. They pretend they are a couple, submit staged fake photographs, and even memorize personal information about their “spouse” so that they can pass the required interview. However, the USCIS is well aware of these tricks, and they therefore dedicate a substantial amount of resources towards detecting these “sham marriages.” Be-
cause of the USCIS’ efforts, it is crucial that a person applying for a green card on the basis of their marriage understand what the USCIS considers to be a valid marriage for immigration purposes. The intending immigrant and their U.S. citizen spouse must prove that their marriage is “bonafide.” It is not the USCIS’ responsibility to prove the marriage is a sham, but rather the immigrant and their U.S. citizen spouse’s burden to show that
can learn your spouse’s date-ofbirth or name of their employer, but how do you expect to know about your spouse’s daily routine unless you are married? That is just one the many types of questions the USCIS may ask to determine if the marriage is valid for immigration purposes. At the conclusion of your personal interview, the USCIS officer has the discretion to determine that the marriage is legitimate. But they also have the authority to determine that a further investigation is necessary. This may involve the officer reviewing social media accounts, visits to the couple’s places of work, attempts to speak with the couple’s neighbors, etc. In these instances, the personal interview is really just the beginning of the investigation. The risks of entering into a “sham marriage” are substantial. Fines, jail time, but no green card. In fact, the person being petitioned will be barred from ever being petitioned again as an immigrant, even if the subsequent relationship is bonafide. We all understand that sometimes you may think a “green card marriage” is the only option, but an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney will advise you against following this illegal, and almost sure-to-fail path.
“ The intending immigrant and their U.S. citizen spouse must prove that their marriage is bonafide.” they “intended to establish a life together” at the time they entered into their marriage. This is not an easy task because the USCIS officers are highly trained to detect sham marriages. Oral statements of the immigrant and their U.S. citizen spouse are not sufficient, and neither are written statements of friends and family members. On the contrary, the USCIS will also want to closely examine the conduct of the parties, e.g., is the couple residing together, how long have they known each other, are they conducting themselves as husband and wife, etc. The USCIS will also consider whether the parties have a sufficient amount of documentation proving the bonafides of their marriage. The USCIS will also commonly want to ask the immigrant and their U.S. citizen spouse personal questions about their relationship. The potential questions a person may be asked are nearly limitless, as the USCIS may ask just about anything they believe a person should know about their spouse. While you can try and learn as much as possible about your spouse, it is virtually impossible to learn enough about another person if you are not really married to them. Sure you
*** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 795-8009 or visit www. rreeves.com. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)
Gov’t seeks to increase coconut exports to Europe PCA Admin Romulo de la Rosa and Ambassador Melita Sta. Maria Thomeczek (1st row, in center) were among the Philippine government officials who attended the Oils + Fats 2017 event in Murich, Germany last September 11 to 18. Photo by Manilatimes.net by ANNALEAH
E. GONZALES ManilaTimes.net
THE government is looking into measures aimed at increasing coconut exports to Europe, the Trade department said over the weekend. The Philippines is the number one supplier of coconut oil to Germany, the department said, citing that country’s Association of Oilseed Crushing & Oil Refining Industry or OVID. Exporters, however, face hurdles such as rules on mineral oil content and other EU regulations. Efforts to promote Philippine exports are con-
tinuing, with the Trade department’s Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Berlin recently assisting the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for the Oils + Fats 2017 event in Munich. The visit included meetings with senior executives of OVID and other organizations such as Coconut Business GmbH and Dr. Georg GmbH. “PCA is looking into measures on how to increase the volume of exports through re-planting programs and consolidation of production by small coconut farmers to supply big volume orders from international buyers,” the Trade department said. ■
Government plans NAIA-2 rehab; no decision on PAL offer by LOUELLA
DESIDERIO Philstar.com
THE government is planning to spend P500 million to improve Terminal 2 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) general manager Eddie Monreal said the amount would be used to rehabilitate NAIA Terminal 2. “Actually it’s in the process of detailed engineering construction,” he said. He said the detailed costing for the project need to be finalized before it could be offered for bidding.
Asked about the proposal of Philippine Airlines (PAL) to expand Terminal 2, Monreal said the government is yet to make a decision on the proposal. Earlier, PAL president and chief operating officer Jaime Bautista said the carrier is proposing to build a P20 billion new annex building which would house a passenger terminal designed to handle 12 to 15 million passengers per year and would have aerobridges capable of serving 12 to 17 wide-bodied and single aisle jets. The proposed annex building will rise on a 16-hectare area adjacent to NAIA Terminal 2,
comprising of the now defunct Philippine Village Hotel, former Nayong Pilipino complex, as well as a property owned by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor). Pagcor said PAL is prohibited under a lease agreement entered into in July 2014 to use the rented property other than as an aircraft parking ramp or apron facility without the regulator’s prior written consent. In response, PAL said it is willing to engage with Pagcor to resolve the matter. Manuel Tamayo, undersecretary for the aviation sector at the
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Community Journal
OCTOBER 6-12, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
Criminal convictions and immigration law
The CTV Files Atty. LiLLi B. BAcuLi WHAT makes a non-citizen deportable? An alien or noncitizen, including a lawful permanent resident (“green card” holder) is deportable for having a conviction relating to controlled substances. Title 8 U.S.C. Section 1227(a)(2)(B)(i) states: “Any alien who at any time after admission has been convicted of a violation of . . . any law or regulation of a State, the United States, or a foreign country relating to a controlled substance (as defined in section 802 of Title 21), other than a single offense involving possession for one’s own use of 30 grams or less of marijuana, is deportable. What counts as a “conviction” for immigration purposes? The term “conviction” means, with respect to an alien, a formal judgment of guilt of the alien entered by a court or, if adjudication of guilt has been withheld, where – (i) a judge or jury
has found the alien guilty or the alien has entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or has admitted sufficient facts to warrant a finding of guilt, and (ii) the judge has ordered some form of punishment, penalty, or restraint on the alien’s liberty to be imposed, including fine, court costs or probation. Immigration consequences of a drug conviction. A non-citizen alien will still have a drug conviction for immigration purposes even after a dismissal of his/her charges following completion of a drug diversion program or a DEJ. As such, a permanent resident/green card holder who is deportable can be stripped of his or her lawful status and permanently removed (deported) from the United States. A lawful permanent resident who agrees to plead guilty in exchange for probation or entry in a diversion program or a DEJ, even after dismissal of charges under PC 1000.3, will have a con-
viction and will be automatically deportable and inadmissible. Worse, since this will be considered a drug conviction, the green cardholder will also be subject to mandatory immigration detention without bond. California residents often are detained in federal prisons in isolated areas in Arizona or Texas, far from family or counsel. This is because a diversion program or a DEJ is a conviction for immigration purposes in that there is a plea and some form of punishment and restraint. Thus, although California considers there to be no conviction if the court dismisses the charges based on the defendant completing DEJ requirements, the conviction still stands under immigration laws. To eliminate a conviction for immigration purposes, the plea must be withdrawn for cause, due to a legal defect in the underlying case. The Kelly Memorandum of February 20, 2017. On Febru-
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette ADevA MAgLAyA MANY years ago, on a visit to my father’s grave site on a quiet, lush, manicured patch of Forest Lawn Glendale, my husband, daughter and I trudged along several tombstones of husbands and wives who lived in the 1850’s and died just before the mid1900’s buried side by side. My daughter noted the pattern in the weathered bronze tablets of several generations ago. I commented that it is getting harder to find such longevity of devotion these days among younger married couples of the current generation. Call this the Age of Distraction for the “Selfies” generation. It seems we love ourselves far too much to the exclusion of others. Perhaps it is because society as a whole, is engaged in far too many distractions and mired in too much self-absorption. Social media enables and encourages a popular culture that fosters selflove to the worrisome point of extreme narcissism. It has become a struggle for many couples just to stay together. One might argue that the generations before us didn’t have the same challenges that we are having. True, it may have been a far simpler time compared to the complexities we are all faced with. And yet they leave behind lessons of love that result in devotion and fidelity. Surely, we can learn a lot about nurturing human relations from those who have gone before us. This I have learned from an older generation at an early age. Of all the powerful words in the English language, the words “Thank you” are like magic wands in helping transform human relationships, marriage in particular, happier. Not perfect … just happier. You don’t even have to say the words. You can acknowledge anything good done for you by your partner by a sweet gesture, a nod, a smile, a touch or anything else that works for you that says “thank you.” In short, don’t take your partner for granted. Whether you’ve
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PhiLiP S. chuA, MD, FAcS, FPcS FOR thousands of years, China has been known to be the capital of herbal medicine. Other countries like the Philippines have their own local regional version of treating diseases and health conditions using herbal products. Today, we still hear an abundance of anecdotal testimonials about the efficacy of these natural “medications” from indigenous foods, plants, minerals, some of them from regular food we eat everyday. Efficacy and safety Folk remedies are our earthly natural gifts and traditional plant and herbs are still man’s sources. About 85 percent of the world’s developing nations studied and refined for years in scientific laboratories until governmental agency’s (the Food and Drug Administration or in case of the U.S.) strict efficacy and safety standards are met. Some of the problems with herbals drugs include lack of stringent product testing and quality control, contamination with adulterants and bacteria, and resultant serious complications, acute (instant) or chronic (long term, years) and in some cases, deaths. There is no question that many plants, fungi, flowers, roots, leaves, fruits have chemical substances in them that are beneficial to the human body, not only as a source of nutrition but as herbal items with medicinal values. Modern science has harnessed some of them, reconfigured their molecular structures and properties, and transformed them into medicine. Penicillin is one of the multitudes of drugs that have their origin from these natural elements. Tainted reputation The quest for alternative medicine — driven by culture, tradition, or economics — has been tainted by the incursion of some pharmaceutical or manufacturing companies which have flooded the market with a hundreds of “herbal medications and juices.” Each has the preposterous claim or insinuation that their products are useful or good for all diseases, from acne to athlete’s foot, from high blood pressure to diabetes, from impotence to aging, from arthritis to cancer, etc. They obviously aim to deceive the unsuspecting public into believing their product is a cure for any and all diseases known to man. And since
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Two magical words
“…And I think about those people who mean so much to me and for so many years have made me so very happy and I count the times I have forgotten to say “thank you” and just how much I love them.” — “Sometimes”, Richard & Karen Carpenter been together 50 days or 50 years, those words never get old. If you want that most powerful emotion called love to live on, treat your partner like a gardener takes care of a plant. Most plants cannot survive without water, light, soil and other optimum conditions kept at a consistent basis. The human heart is like that. It grows strong and beautiful with constant, devoted care. Saying “thank you” to your partner in life as often as you can, simply means you appreciate him. You are validating his worth as a person. Perhaps, being appreciated and shown respect, is next on the list of the most basic needs of a human being after the needs of food, clothing and shelter are met. The words may not come naturally to you and your partner may be stunned at first but go ahead. Give it a try and say “thank you.” Say it like you mean it. Look for the small gestures such as giving you a cup of coffee, opening your car door, doing housework, cleaning your car or filling up your gas tank. Just don’t take what he does for you as a given. Or how about taking the initiative yourself? If you do it long enough and often enough, he just might mirror your behavior. What goes around comes around. If he brings home the paycheck that pays for your family life, then treat him like a king. Often, the goodhearted partner will treat you like his queen. There are exceptions, of course. It is only the jerks and the jackasses who abuse their positions of strength. That holds true for both sexes. If there is constant, sincere appreciation shifting back and forth between partners, you are, in effect, cementing a foundation for a relationship that would be tough to crack even if a threat to your
marriage, like a pretty, young vixen with mile-long legs comes along making a play for your partner. Likewise, a smooth talking, slick Pepe Le Pew character. with washboard abs would smell more like Brad’s sweaty armpit and would have no chance with a woman who already has a man at home she can canoodle with. The same is true for men. Paul Newman simply explained why he remained faithful to Joanne Woodward, “Why fool around with hamburger when you have steak at home?” What is good for the gander is good for the goose. There may be scores of women out there right now who feel neglected by their spouses. Maybe there’s another woman or man waiting in the wings. But more often than not during this Age of Distraction, the disaffection is rooted in self-absorption. And there lies the problem. Women need, want and crave appreciation just as much as men, if not more. Self-love takes many forms — whether it is playing video games or social networking on FB, Twitter or Instagram or some such platform on the internet for hours on end; binge drinking; gambling; watching or playing golf or any other sport; vain, selfobsession as a health nut or on becoming an Adonis body-building hunk or going to the deep end of things, deviant sex and pornography. With few exceptions, obsession is unhealthy not only for the obsessed but also for those who live within his or her immediate orbit. Excessive time spent on these obsessions is time stolen from nurturing the love relationship. Watch out for these modern-day distractions and addictions that are just too many to list. Admit them if you have them
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Herbal warning this particular business is today a multi-billion dollars industry, it goes without saying that there are millions upon millions of ignorant consumers that are being victimized daily by these unscrupulous entrepreneurs. While these companies are spending millions of dollars in marketing and promotion, they are raking in billions of dollars a year, by peddling their products, under the guise of the label “food supplement,” in order to escape the strict scrutiny and investigation by the U.S. FDA or similar governmental agencies in other countries, for safety, efficacy, proper dosage, contraindication, side effects, etc. Reckless, profit-driven ventures Most herbal products today have not been scientifically investigated the same way all western drugs on the market have been studied and tested. So, we do not really know which are safe and efficacious, and what side effects they may have. Not all herbal medicines are dangerous but a few have been shown to cause kidney failure, liver failure, cancer, clot blockages in the kidney veins, seizures, etc. Some of them have caused deaths. Sometime ago, a Chinese herb known as Aristolochia fangchi or A. fangchi was linked to kidney failure and urinary cancer. This herb is used in Chinese medicine to treat asthma. A. fangchi is also an ingredient in a Belgian weight-loss formulation, where the linkage was discovered. This was not the first time where herbal medicines have caused severe, if not fatal, complications. Other herbals to stay away from, to mention a few, are pokeroot, comfrey, and liferoot, which have been reported to cause liver damage. Ginseng can affect hormonal balance and Gingko Biloba, excessive bleeding during surgery, among some people. A warning has been sounded by the United Nations health agency regarding the use/misuse/overuse of herbal medications. Late discovery of toxicity Most of the herbals and socalled food supplement sold over the counter have not undergone proper and adequate testing like what are required by the FDA for proprietary medications. It is most unfortunate for the public that these substances do not need FDA approval prior to marketing. As such, manufacturing and marketing firms are able to make the usual attractive but false claims that the product is effective for various illnesses. The gullible and
ill-informed people fall victims to these fraudulent claims in their search for the “fountain of health and longevity.” This unregulated business is a trillion-dollar industry around the globe. It is one thing to take a substance and discover after days or months that it is not effective; it is another to find out months or years later that the substance is toxic, or causes cancer. By then, it is too late. Alternative medicine could be a wonderful natural option, but with today’s sophisticated medical science, it is most prudent for all of us to use only those herbal products and drugs that have been investigated by the FDA, studied, tested, and proven safe, effective, with minimal side effects and potential complications. There are many fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, spices, and herbs that we eat daily, which have medicinal values in them. These are the “herbals” that are good, safe and much less expensive too. For example: drinking water, for system cleansing and detoxifying; apple, anti-viral and lowers cholesterol; mustard, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial; salt, anti-bacterial and preservative; corn, induces urination; garlic, circulatory stimulant and lowers blood pressure; wheat, anti-aging; cucumber, anti-inflammatory; onion, lowers blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar; watercress is a tonic that detoxifies; potato, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory; lemonade to minimize kidney stone formation; honey, antiseptic and expectorant; pepper, decongestant and immune-system enhancer; and, green leafy vegetables, anti-oxidant like most of the above, and also anti-cancer, etc. One caveat: There is no one single drug on earth that is a cure-all for every illness known to man, and taking an untested drug or substance with unknown side-effects and complications is downright dangerous in the long term, and potentially fatal. *** Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus in Northwest Indiana and chairman of cardiac surgery from 1997 to 2010 at Cebu Doctors University Hospital, where he holds the title of Physician Emeritus in Surgery, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the Philippine College of Surgeons, and the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Surgical Society. He is the chairman of the Filipino United Network – USA, a 501(c)(3) humanitarian foundation in the United States. For more data, visit philipSchua. com; Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
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‘Your tanong, My sagot,’ part 1
Immigration Corner ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ A POPULAR segment on my weekly immigration television show, “Citizen Pinoy”, is “Your Tanong, My Sagot”, where people ask immigration questions on a variety of subjects, and I offer my advice and guidance. Here are a sampling of questions from Filipino viewers, which may also be helpful to you: Question: I am a Filipino citizen, and was married to a U.S. citizen for 12 years. Two years ago, my wife divorced me. Last year, she and our 12-year-old daughter came to the Philippines for a visit. My wife and I had a heart-to-heart discussion, and found out we are still in love with each other. Right now, she wants to petition me. Do you see any complications, since we are still considered married under Philippine law? Answer: Although divorce is not recognized in the Philippines, from a U.S. immigration law standpoint, your divorce is recognized and valid in the U.S., since your U.S. citizen wife obtained a valid divorce from you in the U.S., you would now be considered “unmarried.” Therefore, a fiancé (K-1) visa would be the appropriate way to go. Question: My U.S. citizen son
retired from the military. He is on disability because of a traumatic brain injury. He has an 18 year old daughter living in the Philippines whom he met for the first time in 2013. She did not have a birth certificate, so we had her birth registered late in 2015. My son and his child did a DNA paternity test, which proved 99.99% positive that he is the biological father.. Can my son file a petition for his daughter? Could she possibly be a U.S. citizen? Answer: It is possible that an out of wedlock child of a U.S. citizen father could be considered an “automatic” U.S. citizen at birth, and therefore no petition would be needed. The basic requirements are the U.S. citizen father should have lived in the U.S. for at least five years before the child’s birth, two of which were after his 14th birthday. (Time in the military also counts as physical presence in the U.S.) In addition, the child should have been “legitimated” before age 18. It is possible to legitimate a child without marrying the mother. Most importantly, the father must have agreed, in writing, under oath, to support that child up to the child’s 18th birthday. That support agreement is a relatively simple form, but many US citizen fathers do not sign it before the child’s 18th birthday,
thus cutting off that child’s ability to become a U.S. citizen at birth. Alternatively, the child could be petitioned as an illegitimate child, provided the father could demonstrate that he supported the child while the child was a minor. (In other words, petitioning an out of wedlock child for green card would not necessarily require a formal written agreement under oath, as is required for citizenship.) *** Michael J. Gurfinkel has been an attorney for over 35 years and is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and re-enactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES
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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 6-12, 2017
Calendar of Events across
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America
ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS O C TO B E R 6 - 8
4th Filipino American International Book Festival in San Francisco Join a weekend of fun literary events, performances and activities for book lovers of all ages! The opening gala will be held on Friday, Oct. 6, while the festival will begin on Saturday, Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. On Sunday, Oct. 8, it will be from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. It will take place at the San Francisco Main Library at 100 Larkin Street, San Francisco. Admission to the festival is FREE and open to the public. For more information, please visit http://www.filbookfestival.org/.
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A3M Starnight 2017 annual gala in Long Beach, CA In the past 25 years, A3M has given hope and a second chance of life to many patients. Their journeys have inspired and motivated the organization to continue its mission of increasing and diversifying the Be the Match Registry. A3M is committed to supporting patients from the communities that are underrepresented in the Be the Match Registry. To continue its life-saving work, you are invited to support A3M at its Annual Gala Dinner held on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach (200 South Pine Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802) from 5 to 9 p.m. To purchase tickets, please visit https://www.flipcause. com/secure/event_step2/MTk3NjI=/13381.
City of Carson’s Filipino-American History Month Kick-Off The City of Carson will kick off this year’s Filipino-American History Month on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the CJMM Community Center at Carson (801 E. Carson St., Carson, CA 980745). From 8 to 9 a.m., there will be refreshments at the Community Center East Parking Lot. It will be followed by a wreath laying at Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s monument from 9 to 9:15 a.m. From 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. there will be a program at the Carson Dominguez Room. For more information, please call (310) 952-1743.
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Adobo Festival in Los Angeles The 12th Annual Adobo Festival is coming up on Saturday and Sunday, October 7 & 8 at the Silver Lake Medical Center at 1711 W. Temple St. in Los Angeles. The festival starts from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and admission is FREE! For details regarding how to join the Adobo Cook-Off Contest, Kiddie Popstar and for booth vendors, call (650) 2900542 or (650) 290-4457 or log on to www.adobofestivalusa.com.
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Glendale Tech Week Glendale Tech Week offers the best of tech from within Glendale and the Greater LA area. Attendees will have access to talent, networking, and business opportunities. Passes, schedule of events, and list of speakers available at Glendaletechweek.com.
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26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture in Echo Park
HER “AMERICAN DREAM” SHATTERED WHEN HER CASE WAS DENIED AND HER TWO ATTORNEYS TOLD HER THE ONLY SOLUTION WAS TO JUST “HIDE.” Mariel was devastated when her adjustment of status was denied after USCIS concluded she was out of status. Distraught and lost, especially after her first two lawyers’ only advice was to “hide,” Mariel decided to consult with “Attorney-of-LastHope” Michael J. Gurfinkel who sought reconsideration and was able to get Mariel her elusive green card in record time. Watch Mariel’s dream come true on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising supplement)
Business News
Int’l energy body releases study promoting access to electricity in PH by DANESSA
RIVERA
Philstar.com
THE International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has released a study that will promote better access to basic electricity services in the Philippines with the government’s thrust toward total electrification. The study, titled “Accelerating the Deployment of Renewable Energy Mini-Grids for Off-Grid Electrification- A Study on the Philippines,” was received by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi during the concluding ceremonies of the 35th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM). Cusi said the IRENA study supports the country’s total electrification goal for Filipino families to enjoy equal opportunity to access basic electricity services. “Electrification of households, particularly in the rural areas, remains a big challenge for us. Thus, we have to take advantage of this study to bridge the residual gaps in our electrification efforts,” he said. The study entailed a documentary review, focus group discussions and field studies in four sites, which resulted in several key recommendations to accelerate the deployment of energy mini-grids via renewable energy and other emerging technologies for off-grid electrification in the Philippines. IRENA came up with five key recommendations in the study. It said the Philippines should define roles and responsibilities to remove overlapping roles, functions and accountabilities to acknowledge stakeholders’ roles and to define private-sector boundaries. The country was also told to undertake com-
prehensive and strategic planning for total electrification, missionary electrification development, stronger coordination among relevant agencies, grid and off-grid development efforts, and resource utilization, especially renewable energy. To promote setting up of micro-grids, IRENA said the government should establish a clear policy approach for mini-grids to introduce a graduation policy for the universal charge for missionary electrification entitlement. The international agency also suggested to revise regulatory approach for mini-grid projects to remove existing barriers and facilitate smooth entry in the market by streamlining processes, updating procurement rules and improving tariff determination procedures. Lastly, IRENA said the Philippines should increase project development and execution support for more accessible financing, and promotion and understanding of renewable energy by all stakeholders. IRENA is an intergovernmental organization that supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future, and serves as the principal platform for international co-operation, a center of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource and financial knowledge on renewable energy. The international agency also promotes the widespread adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy, including bioenergy, geothermal, hydropower, ocean, solar and wind energy, in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. ■
Criminal convictions and...
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ary 20, 2017, the Department of Homeland (DHS) Security Secretary John Kelly issued a new policy memorandum, announcing that DHS will no longer exempt classes or categories of removable aliens from potential enforcement. Pursuant to the Kelly Memorandum of February 20, 2017, noncitizens are removable if they – (i) have been convicted of any criminal offense; (ii) have been charged with any criminal offense that has not been resolved; (iii) have engaged in fraud or willful misrepresentation in connection with any official matter before a governmental agency; (iv) have abused any program related to receipt of public benefits; (v) are subject to a final order of removal but have not complied with their legal obligation to depart the U.S.; (vi) in
the judgment of an immigration officer, otherwise pose a risk to public safety or national security. Negative Consequences of Criminal Conviction. The Record of Conviction details an individual’s criminal history. More importantly, the relief(s) available to an individual facing deportation will depend largely on that individual’s record of conviction. Thus, even “just a misdemeanor” can make a non-citizen deportable, even if that person is a long-time green card holder and has lived in the United States for 20 years. Therefore, it is very important to understand that before taking a plea deal, consult with a deportation defense attorney. No two cases are exactly the same. Consult with an experienced and competent immigration attorney immediately, and
more importantly prior to filing any applications with the USCIS, or prior to pleading to anything in any court, in order to explore their options and possible legal ramifications that they might be facing. *** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 4958088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys. com. For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com. (Advertising Supplement)
The 26th annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC) hosted by Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) is back at Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 14. Expect a whole day filled with art exhibits, entertainment, and Fil-Am vendors. More details and special guests to be announced. For more information, please visit: http://www.filamarts.org/.
18th annual Asian Small Business Expo in Alhambra, CA On Saturday, Oct. 14, the 18th annual Asian Small Business Expo will be held at the Almansor Court Conference Center (700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, CA 91801), featuring free workshops, exhibitors, networking opportunities, and more! Jonny Hwang, founder of 626 Night Market, is the featured guest speaker with special guest, Jerome Horton, chairman of the California Board of Equalization. It is FREE to attend! The Asian Small Business Expo is the only business-to-business expo that engages the Asian business community and brings this growing economic force into the mainstream to connect and utilize your company and its services. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with small businesses, market your organization and tap into a network of entrepreneurs, service providers, financial organizations, franchises and governmental and legislative representatives. For more information, please visit http://www.apisbp.org/expo.html.
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Award-winning journalist Raissa Robles holds speaking tour in Los Angeles As part of a six-city U.S. tour, Raissa Robles, a Manila-based award-winning investigative journalist, will share her insights into the significance of the rise of the Marcoses and the current administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. Robles is the author of “Marcos Martial Law: Never Again, a brief history of torture and atrocity under the new society,” nearing her the International Award for Excellence in Journalism by the Geneva-based International Christian Organization of the Media (ICOM). The community special events will take place followed by a Q&A. These events are free and open to the public: Saturday, October 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Pilipino Workers Center (153 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026) and Sunday, October 15 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church (6657 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028). For more information, call (323) 606-1322 or email mrjaimeg@ hotmail.com.
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City of Carson’s 8th annual Larry Itliong Day Celebration Join the City of Carson for its 8th annual celebration of Larry Itliong Day on Saturday, Oct. 21 with a parade and program. Assembly time begins at 8 a.m., with the parade from 9 to 9:30 a.m. The program will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. It will be held at Veterans Park at 22400 Moneta Avenue, Carson, CA 90745. Admission is FREE. For more information, please call (310) 952-1743.
NaFFAA to celebrate 20th anniversary in Washington, DC The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) turns 20 years old this year. This October, several events are being planned to celebrate this milestone, which coincides with the national observance of Filipino American History Month. They will culminate with NaFFAA’s 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC on Saturday, October 21. With its theme “NaFFAA 2.0: One Voice, Four Million Strong,” NaFFAA will recognize the legacy and accomplishments of the organization over the past 20 years, and highlight its comprehensive vision to unite and amplify the voices of the four million Filipinos living in the United States. “NaFFAA 2.0” represents how NaFFAA is honoring its past while forging a new forward-thinking and balanced approach in uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse Filipino American individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. To learn more about NaFFAA or to purchase tickets for the 20th Anniversary Gala, please visit www. naffaa.org.
Mutya ng Lahi in Santa Clarita, CA To celebrate Filipino-American History Month, the Fil-Am Association of SCV, Inc. proudly presents Mutya ng Lahi (Jewel of Ancestry) on Saturday, Oct. 21. It will be held at the Centre at 20880 Centre Pointe Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91351 from 6 to 10 p.m. The program will showcase traditional folk dances, songs, national costumes and an exhibition of Philippine Centennial. Tickets for the dinner and show are $35 for adults, $20 for children (4-12), and free for under 3 years. For ticket sales, please contact the following no later than Oct. 13: Emie R. Carrillo at (661) 877-2699, Zeny Justiniano at (661) 294-0181, or Zony Gordon at (661) 312-3422.
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FACC-GLA’s Halloween Dance Party in Canoga Park, CA The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce - Greater Los Angeles (FACC - GLA) invites members and guests to its Halloween Dance Party on Friday, October 27 from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. at the Best Western Canoga Park Hotel. Come in with your scariest attire as there will be special gifts for the best costume attire. Food & drinks will be included. Tickets are limited and entry will only be allowed for those who paid online or through check on or before Tuesday, October 24. Payment can be made through the website www.filamchambergla.org. Strictly NO payment will be accepted at the door.
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
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Business news
OCTOBER 6-12, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
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Banking system outlook still ‘stable’ US businessmen back tax reform by MayveLin
by Mary
Grace Philstar.com
U. carabaLLo
ManilaTimes.net
THE near-term outlook for the Philippine banking system remains stable as indicators show it can accommodate rapid loan growth, Moody’s Investors Service said. The debt watcher’s perspective — maintained since November 2015 and extended for the next 12 to 18 months — was detailed in a report released on Friday, September 28. “The banks’ asset performance will be supported by a strong economy and the private sector’s benign leverage and debt servicing metrics,” Moody’s VicePresident Simon Chen said in a statement. He warned, however, that nonperforming loans could rise as banks shift to a loan mix that is heavier on retail loans. “Such loans tend to show higher delinquency rates when compared with corporate loans,” Chen said. The overall outlook was based on an assessment of the operating environment, asset quality and capital, funding and liquidity, profitability and efficiency, and systemic support, all of which were rated as stable. Credit growth, “which will likely stay in the high teens through 2017 and 2018”, would be supported by real gross domestic product growth (GDP) above that of similarly rated sovereigns. The Philippines — which has an investment-grade Baa2 rat-
ing and a stable outlook from Moody’s — is expected to see GDP growth of 6.5 percent in 2017 and 6.8 percent in 2018. “Economic growth in the Philippines will be supported in the next 12-18 months by stable household consumption, the government’s focus on infrastructure development, buoyant private sector investment, and the recovery in external demand,” the debt watcher said. Asset performance will also remain stable in the near term as the credit metrics of corporate customers, which account for some 80 percent of banks’ loan portfolios, are expected to remain sound. Capitalization will stay strong but weaken slightly, Moody’s said, given pressure from rapid credit growth and the adoption of Philippine Financial Reporting Standards 9 that requires banks to recognize expected credit losses rather than waiting for these to occur. ”Nevertheless, Moody’s stress test results show that the banks’ loss absorbing capacity is strong. And, their strong and proven access to the external capital markets will also mitigate potential
Padin
THE American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines has expressed its support for the government’s tax reform program, which it described as “fair and progressive” while providing additional revenues to fund the government’s programs, the Department of Finance (DOF) said. Citing the AmCham’s official statement, the DOF said the business group has formalized its support for the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Act, which contains the first package of the administration’s Comprehensive Tax Reform Program. “The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) strongly supports the comprehensive tax reform legislation of the Duterte administration (known by the acronym TRAIN) in its overall goals,” AmCham said in its official statement. The American business group also said it supports the tax reform program as it “is fair, progressive, improves tax collection, funds physical and social infrastructure, and supports investors.”
pressure on their capital levels,” it said. As for funding and liquidity, it said that the banks’ funding profiles were dominated by deposits and showed little reliance on short-term wholesale funding. Loan-to-deposit ratios were at a low 67 percent as of the middle of 2017 “and they hold sizable stocks of liquid assets”. Meanwhile, an improvement in net interest margins attributable to the rebalancing of loan exposures will support profitability but “their high cost base will remain a key drag on their profitability metrics,” Moody’s said. The government’s capacity to provide support to banks in times of stress, meanwhile, was said to have improved in recent years due to the country’s strong economic performance and fiscal management gains Systemically important banks can expect to receive greater support from the government, Moody’s noted. The debt watcher currently maintains ratings on nine Philip- PAGE CJ1 t pine commercial banks, whose Department of Transportation, assets account for around 75 per- said the improvement of Terminal cent of the total banking system. n 2 is in line with the government plans on airport development. “The direction is to develop both MIAA and Clark,” he said. The government has started the bidding process for the engineering procurement and con-
e. GonzaLes ManilaTimes.net
THE government is optimistic of continued franchising industry growth but businesses have to be on their toes, the Trade department said. “Through innovation and creativity, we are confident … [that we will]see more local franchisers expand across the country’s borders,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said during last week’s 16th Business and Franchise Expo of the Association of Filipino Franchisers Inc. (AFFI) The franchising industry saw sales growth by 20 percent in 2016, the Trade department said, with the expansion expected to be sustained over the next two years.
EMPLOYMENT
PSYCHIC
Lopez said franchising was a vital tool for economic development and nation-building, particularly since it provides opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). “We are driven to empower local entrepreneurs and we will continue to work to meet the challenges of the market,“ he said. In addition to large Filipino firms expanding in Southeast Asia, Lopez claimed that household-based micro-enterprises now had the capacity to penetrate regional markets via government programs. Lopez said that MSMEs were at the “front and center” of the government’s trade agenda,
physical infrastructure, but also social infrastructure to provide Filipinos with better education, transportation and health care. Last May 31, the House of Representatives passed its own version of the TRAIN, as contained in House Bill 5636. The Senate version, Senate Bill 1592, is undergoing plenary deliberations. It aims to simplify the country’s tax system by lowering personal income taxes and unifying donor and estate taxes, among others. To offset the projected revenue loss from the adjustment in the personal income tax, the bill also proposes the adjustment of fuel and automobile excise taxes and the expansion of the value-added tax (VAT) base. n
struction (EPC) contract for the new passenger terminal building for the Clark International Airport. The government has allocated P12.55 billion for the construction of a new passenger terminal building which could accommodate eight million passengers per annum, as well as the construction and installation of all required as-
sociated landside and airside facilities to support operations for the Clark International Airport. Based on the timeline released earlier for the project, the government expects to select the EPC contractor by November, while the start of construction works for the passenger terminal is targeted for December this year.n
ing decisions that cause not only personal damage but also leave behind in the wake of a messy split, massive psychological, irreversible damage to children and other people involved in the couple’s life. Say “thank you” and mean it. Don’t just do it out of habit. Cut off the cellphone “umbilical cord” and make eye contact. Open your eyes and see the good in your partner. Wisdom, as they say, is knowing what to overlook. Rein in that critical sharp tongue. The tongue is a small yet powerful muscle that can lash out
capable of slashing and burning a relationship forever. The effect is amplified a million times when you write it down or use the web to vent your fury. When you document your anger on paper and more frequently these days online, you have entered “scorched earth” territory. There is little chance of ever going back. (To be continued …)
Government plans NAIA-2...
DTI sees continued franchising growth by anna Leah
TRAIN is also seen to incentivize individuals and corporations to work, save and invest, and impose a significant burden of taxation based on consumption, it added. AmCham said the bill adjusts the current personal income tax rates that have been unchanged since 1997 and resulted in less take-home pays for employees every year. “Our employees deserve to have the real purchasing power of their earnings returned to them in recognition of their labor,” the group said. AmCham said the tax reform bill also improves tax collection through reforms – including the use of electronic receipts and the streamlining of procedures in the Bureau of Internal Revenue – and encourages investments by retaining incentives for exporters. The group said additional revenues to be generated from the TRAIN bill will not only fund
Two magical words... PAGE CJ2 t
which is tied to the goal of inclusive growth and shared prosperity. The Philippines, the Trade department said, currently has 1,500 franchises where 65 percent are local brands. Some 140,000 franchise outlets can be found nationwide and the Philippine franchise sector generates more than a million jobs, it added. n
PSYCHIC
and break the bonds with firm resolve. If you want true love and happiness, strive for balance and moderation. In all cases of neglect, love is left to wither and die. Women who feel neglected, if driven to their limits, may throw all caution to the wind and look for love from the first opportunistic guy that comes along ready to engage in mild flirtation, an occasional dalliance or a full blown affair and gives them the attention and validation they crave. Such women can make disastrous, life-chang-
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COMMUNITY JOURNAL
NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • OCTOBER 6-12, 2017
CJ5
People & Events
Network of seven schools will support catholic Enjoy the majesty of fall families and catholic education in Oakland Diocese OAKLAND – Bishop Michael C. Barber, SJ, recently announced the legal incorporation of Lumen Christi Academies of the Diocese of Oakland, an organization of seven Catholic elementary schools within the Diocese. The schools were selected through a rigorous review of their strengths and resources; demographic data shows these schools are needed to make Catholic education accessible to families who desire it. The seven schools to become Lumen Christi Academies are: Queen of All Saints, Concord; St. Anthony, Oakland; St. Catherine of Siena, Martinez; St. Cornelius, Richmond; St. Elizabeth, Oakland; St. Paul, San Pablo; and St. Peter Martyr, Pittsburg. “Our beloved Catholic schools have always been places of hope, inspiration and success; we must ensure this gift for our future generations,” explained Bishop Barber. “Lumen Christi Academies is a renewal of our commitment to strengthen and sustain Catholic education for our families.” The Lumen Christi Academies, which will
launch in the fall of 2018, are expected to attract families and major foundations interested in a robust academic setting permeated with Catholic values. Lumen Christi Academies will be led by a board approved by Bishop Barber, consisting of community leaders committed to Catholic education with diverse professional backgrounds. It will have its own dedicated management to guide its mission, collaborating with the existing Department of Catholic Schools. “We are already engaged with our principals, pastors, professionals and interested supporters,” explained Superintendent Kathleen Radecke. “Teams are actively working on mission and Catholic identity, governance, curriculum, human resources, development and fundraising, marketing, and more. The enthusiasm and dedication toward ensuring the foundational success of our Lumen Christi Academies is inspiring as we work together to establish an enduring Catholic school education for our children and their families.”
The Lumen Christi Academies are being modeled after similar, successful efforts in Catholic dioceses across the country. “Lumen Christi Academies are an innovative model of Catholic education,” explained Dr. Elizabeth Guneratne, who is serving as the project lead for Lumen Christi Academies during this transition year. “Leveraging the resources and knowledge of our diverse network of schools, we will build upon our traditions of spiritual and academic formation for children with a renewed focus on excellence, equity, and enlightenment. We are blending the best of our Catholic school traditions with a bold new commitment to preparing ethical scholars who will illuminate a more just and joyful future. We are not just keeping the lights on – we built a new grid and we are lighting the way together for our children, families and communities.” The Diocese of Oakland serves two counties in the East Bay region, Alameda and Contra Costa, and includes approximately 400,000 Catholics in 84 parishes. ■
THE Arbor Day Foundation will brighten up your fall by offering 10 free autumn classics trees or five free Crapemyrtle when you join the organization in October. The free trees are part of the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation’s Trees for America campaign, a program dedicated to environmental stewardship through the planting of trees. Everyone who joins the Arbor Day Foundation in October will receive five free crapemyrtle trees or 10 free autumn classics selected for your area. The 10 autumn classics include: two sugar maples, two red maples, and one each of scarlet oak, sweetgum, northern red oak, silver maple, white flowering dogwood, and Washington hawthorn. “Members will especially enjoy these trees during the autumn months because they’ll add abundant, vibrant color to any yard or landscape for years to come,” said Matt Harris, chief execu-
tive of the Arbor Day Foundation. The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting, between Nov. 1 and Dec. 10. The 6- to 12-inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge. Planting instructions will be enclosed with each shipment of trees. To receive your free trees, send a $10 membership contribution with your tree selection to Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410, by October 31, 2017, or join online at arborday.org/october. ■
UP Alumni and Friends Rondalla 25th year anniversary milestone concert for a cause THE University of the Philippines and Friends Rondalla (UPAFR) of Piscataway, New Jersey will be celebrating their 25th anniversary milestone with a concert at the Dorothy Young Center for the Arts Concert Hall, Drew University, Madison New Jersey, on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at 3 p.m. The anniversary concert will share how their repertoire has evolved, showcasing the versatility of the rondalla — ranging from traditional and contemporary music from the Philippines and other nations, light classical compositions, church music and Broadway themes. Tenor Anthony Lim and the Ligaya Cultural Group dancers will also be performing at this celebratory event. Concert proceeds will benefit the Pagyamanin Likas Musika (PLM), a 2016 Presidential Awardee Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (Service to Fellow Filipinos) category for utilizing a unique musical heritage to help build the character of the Filipino youth. Through the PLM Rondalla Instruments Lending Program, many children’s rondalla ensembles have been established in orphanages, communities and
schools in low-income areas in the Philippines. In the words of UPAFR President Diane Valencia, “We believe that these children are just as talented as their peers; they just need the opportunity and resources to learn our rondalla tradition and benefit from the physical, mental, and life building skills through playing music. For tickets call Tel. (732) 3173364 or e-mail upafr.president@ gmail.com or visit Website www. upafrondalla.org. If unable to attend the concert, please consider making a tax-deductible donation. Thank you very much for your support.” UPAFR and PLM have been partners in the propagation of the rondalla tradition in marginalized communities and schools in the Philippines since UPAFR chose PLM the Rondalla Instrument Lending Program as their beneficiary in 2012. This led to the establishment of a group with two sets of (16) rondalla instruments in an elementary school in Samar, Philippines. UPAFR has been a regular co-sponsor in the last three of the six rondalla festivals of beneficiaries organized by PLM. Pamanang Pinoy CD
The UPAFR was instrumental in helping PLM in the planning, production and sales of “Pamanang Pinoy,” a collaborative CD by 11 artists/rondalla groups (including UPAFR) from the U.S. and the Philippines. It was originally designed to help PLM’s rondalla program become sustainable. However, right after the completion of the CD in late 2013, several manmade and natural calamities which include the Zamboanga Siege, Bohol earthquake and Typhoon Yolanda befell the Philippines. Hence, it was readily decided by the CD stakeholders that the several thousands of pesos raised from the sales be funnelled instead to the relief and rehabilitation of the calamity victims. Presidential Award recipient, Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte conferred the Presidential Awards to PLM during the awarding ceremonies for the 2016 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) at the Malacanang Palace on December 19, 2016. Members of the Diplomatic Corps including U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, Sung Kim were in attendance at
University of the Philippines Alumni and Friends Rondalla conducts free rondalla lessons to FilAms at the Pistacaway Center, New Jersey.
the event. In conferring the award to PLM, the president recognizes “its passion in promoting our unique Filipino musical heritage towards building the character of Filipino youth and raising funds to help in relief assistance efforts in calamity affected areas in the Philippines and other parts of the globe. Music is the language of the soul. For Filipinos who have a knack for creating beautiful melodies using traditional musical instruments, the music they produce ensures that the souls of Filipino youth are ingrained with traits that positively build their characters as productive individuals.” Rondalla instruments lending
Concert beneficiary PLM is a 2016 PAFIOO recipient.
(to own) Program mechanics From a subset of raised funds accomplished in several creative ways like concerts, busking, yard sales, recycling for cash, CD fabrication and the likes, an underserved community/school with no regard to parochialism or regionalism is selected as the target beneficiary. Once resources and responsible contact persons have been identified, eight (8) rondalla instruments (4 bandurias, 1 laud, 1 octavina and 2 guitars) are loaned for the training of its underprivileged children. Program Guidelines is shared and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is signed with the chosen beneficiary. Upon successful compliance with the simple to
attain minimum requirements, the recipient community/school eventually becomes the owner of the rondalla instruments, thereby providing for the successive groups of children to also enjoy and learn the skills of playing the instruments. Rondalla Beneficiary Groups The PLM program beneficiary communities/schools serve hundreds of underprivileged children who otherwise cannot afford to acquire rondalla instruments. The number of under-served communities/schools established groups now total 70 all over the Philippines and more potential program recipients who have asked to join has increased leaps and bounds.■
ğ įōíľ ÀðıÃæµįPçį ʼn æIJįıÀ ØÃĉÃæîÂ ß ğÃqPç qíß߼æÃıŎįĤÀíĽØ ÕæíŊįPdíĽIJĕ If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, email us the details (title, description, time & date, location, etc.) at info@asianjournalinc.com. And for consideration in our print calendar, please send submissions at least three weeks before the date of the event. To be included in our online calendar/ e-newsletter, please allow at least two to three weeks' notice. The Asian Journal would be delighted to list your event in our Calendar of Events.
CJ
OCTOBER 6-12, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL
http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 689-5160
Friday, October 6, 2017
Photos on the cover courtesy of National Archives, FANHS.org and Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe.
SF2
cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - October 6, 2017
TRACING HISTORY: When and how Filipino-American History Month started by RIAN
FILIPINO-American History Month is celebrated in the United States every October. The significance of the month is attached to the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the United States. It was on October 18, 1587 when the “Luzones Indios” came ashore from the Manila-built Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Esperanza under the command of Spanish Captain Pedro de Unamuno and set foot in what is now Morro Bay, California. The late Dr. Fred Cordova, along with his wife, Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) Founder Dr. Dorothy Laigo Cordova, first introduced October as Filipino-American History Month in 1992 with a resolution from the FANHS National Board of Trustees. The Filipino American History Month was first recognized statewide in California in 2006 when the California Department of Education placed it on its calendar. California State
MENDIOLA /AJPress
Senator Leland Yee introduced a resolution, which passed the California State Assembly and was submitted to the California Secretary of State, that recognizes October as Filipino-American History Month. In November 2009, both the United States House of Representatives and Senate passed resolutions — House Resolution 780 and Senate Resolution 298, respectively — officially recognizing the month of October as Filipino-American History Month in the United States. Filipino-American History Month is widely celebrated in various states, counties and cities in the United States especially in California and Hawaii, where a large number of Fil-Ams currently reside. Commemorating 70 years of PH-US military bases agreement This year, the FANHS is commemorating the 70th anniversary of the 1947 Military Bases Agreement between the Philippines and the United States.
SORIANO /AJPress
BOTH Americans and Filipinos acknowledge their countries’ relationship is a “special one,” said Frank H. Golay in the book “The United States and the Philippines,” published by the American Assembly. Tracing back the pieces of history until the most recent issues emanating between the two countries, it is likely true. From the issues such as colonization and military agreement, today’s love-hate relationship of the two countries is hard to uproot. By a way of example is when Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s threatened to cut ties with the U.S. government in the past. Latest headlines now say Duterte has changed his mind and now chooses to be friends with the American government. This otherwise complex relationship between the two countries has deeper roots. It has stood the test of time and numerous storms, and keeps on growing. Here are some distinct contributions by Filipinos that helped shaped U.S. history and society: 1) 250,000 Filipinos served under the U.S flag during the World War II Approximately 250,000 Filipino soldiers signed up to U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt’s call-to arms in 1941. These Filipinos soldiers fought under the American flag during World War II, serving under both the U.S. Army Forces in Asia and as guerilla fighters against Imperial Japan’s occupation of the Philippines. These, all to the U.S. government’s promise of a possibility to be granted U.S. citizenship and full veteran benefits. Although some Filipino soldiers were later granted the muchcoveted U.S. citizenship, their role during WWII and the suffering of the entire Filipino nation are not mentioned in U.S. history books. Furthermore, five months after the war ended, President Truman signed the First Surplus Rescission Act in February, 1946, which deemed the service of the Filipino soldiers as not full-time, thereby disqualifying them from receiving their rightful benefits. Today, advocates have fought the inclusion of their stories in public schools starting in California. The Filipino veterans of WWII are also finally receiving the Congressional Gold Medal on October 25. presentation of the gold medal to recognize that “the loyal and valiant Filipino Veterans of World War II fought, suffered, and, in many instances, died in the same manner and under the same commander as other members of the United States Armed Forces during World War II.” The medal collectively honors the more than 260,000 Filipinos who lent their efforts on behalf of the United States during WWII. Fewer than 16,000 of those soldiers are alive today. 2) Filipino-Americans contributed significantly to the American labor movement, particularly with the United Farm Workers movement in the 1960s. Years of poor compensation and mediocre conditions paved the way for the Delano grape strike. Filipino American grape workers and members of the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee walked out on strike against Delano-wine grape growers. Fil-Am farm workers were actually the brains behind what Cesar Chavez and Mexican farmworkers are often credited for. The strike which lasted for more than five years lead to the signing of union contracts, which finally paved the way for granting the Continued on Page SF3
Events and Celebration
OCTOBER 5 Bindlestiff Studio presents “Welga,” set in San Francisco’s SoMA neighborhood. Community preview on October 5, at 8 p.m. but will run from October 6-21, from Thursday-Saturday. For tickets: http://welga.bpt.me.
OCTOBER 6 State of Illinois FAHM Celebration, Concourse Level at James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601. Contact Mr. Thomas Choi Thomas.Choi@illinois.gov, co-hosted by the Consulate General of the Philippines.
OCTOBER 7 Along with it is acknowledging the monumental effect it had on U.S.-Philippine relations and the Filipino community The history of the alliance between the two countries indicated an opposition toward the first attempts at establishing U.S. military bases in the Philippines. The Filipino opposition to the bases started when the HareHawes-Cutting Act was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, overriding a veto by President Herbert Hoover, on January 17, 1933. The law promised Philippine independence after 10 years but reserved several military and naval bases for the United States, as well as imposing tariffs and quotas on Philippine imports. The Philippine Commonwealth Legislature and the Filipinos opposed the act at the insistence of then Philippine Commonwealth Senate President Manuel L. Quezon, who advocated for the passage of the Tydings-Mcduffie Act instead. This act eliminated objectionable provisions of the HareHawes-Cutting Act and provided authority for naval reservations in the Philippines, giving the U.S. president only the authority to negotiate within the Philippine government for that purpose. It was passed on March 24, 1934 and the Philippines was finally granted independence on July 4, 1946. When World War II broke out, the U.S. sought to maintain its military presence in the Philippines. The Military Bases Agreement, signed in 1947, provided basing rights of U.S. forces in the Philippines for 99 years. It also gave the United States the right to recruit citizens of the Philippines for voluntary enlistment into the US armed forces, according to Article 27. From the Bases Agreement
Filipino American National Historical Society (FAHNS) 35th anniversary at the Immaculate Conception Auditorium, 820 18th Avenue, Seattle, WA from 5:pm. to 9 p.m. Reception and silent auction at 5 pm., dinner and historical program at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $45. For reservations: e-mail fanhsnational@ gmail.com or call (206) 322-0204. City of Carson 2017 Filipino-American History Month Kick-Off at the CJMM Community Center, 801 E. Carson Street. For more information, please call (310) 952-1743. 3rd Annual Barrio Fiesta at Shaffer’s Farm, 8915 E. 31st Street S, Wichita, KS 67210. Contact: Ms. Rose Axman (316) 648-1364/ roseaxman06@gmail.com. Sponsored by the Filipino American Association of Greater Wichita (FAAGW).
Photos courtesy of National Archives and FANHS.org
to 1992, when the Philippine Congress voted to end the bases agreement. The country closed the bases, with more than 35,000 Filipinos having served in the U.S. Navy. Thousands of Filipino men enlisted to Sangley Point Naval Base, the Naval headquarters in the Philippines, due to the declining economic and political environment. The Navy offered higher pay than any other occupation in the Philippines, and additional incentives included traveling the world and the potential opportunity to obtain U.S. citizenship. During their service and upon retirement, these servicemen became American citizens, created families in the U.S. and petitioned for the immigration of their other family members. Because of this, they and their families created large Fil-Am communities in different states such as Chicago, Illinois; Providence and Newport, Rhode Island; Long Beach, San Diego, Oakland and Vallejo, California; Jacksonville, Pensacola and Key West, Florida; Kitsap and Seattle, Washington; Charleston, South Carolina; Honolulu, Hawaii. As a result of Military Bases Agreement, thousands of FilAmes trace their roots back to the Filipinos who served in the military and chose to settle in the United States upon retirement.
Filipinos’ contributions Some notable to US history and society Filipino-Americans by JENNIFER
Filipino-American History Month 2017
By ELIJAH
RODEROS
Filipiniana 2017 Gala - A Colorado benefit dinner by NaFFAA Region V at the Radisson Hotel Denver, Aurora Colorado from 6-11 p.m. For tickets https://www.eventbrite.com/e/filipiniana-2017gala-a-colorado-benefit-dinner-tickets-35953391562?aff=es2. Filipino Children’s Story Hour program launch at the Bergenfield Public Library, Bergenfield, New Jersey from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. For more information call (774) 257 4669 or e-mail info@filschool-nynj. org.
OCTOBER 8 “Michigan Filipinxs: Our Spaces in History,” at the Philippine American Cultural Center of Michigan (PACCM) located at 17356 Northland Park, Court, Southfield, MI. Contact Aurora Harris aurora.fanhsmi@gmail.com.
OCTOBER 9 FAHM Celebration in Iowa, a feature display of Philippine arts and crafts, souvenirs and power point presentation. At the Urban Dale Public Library, 3520 86th St, Urbandale, IA 50322. Contact Mr. Roel Campos at rfcampos@gmail.com. Sponsored by NaFFAA Iowa.
OCTOBER 13 FilAm Creative sponsors “Asian AF Presents: Filipino AF” at UCB Sunset’s Inner Sanctum Stage, 5419 West Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 9:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. Free admission.
OCTOBER 14 26th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture (FPAC) at Echo Park Lake, Los Angeles from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more info: www. filamarts.org. Fil-Am of American Canyon and AmCan Arts Foundation celebrate Fil-Am History Month at the Community Gym, 100 Benton Way, American Canyon, CA from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more info: http://filamcyn.org. The Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School at 31604 Alvarado Blvd., Union City will celebrate Filipino American History Month from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with keynote speaker Fil-Am NBA player Raymond Townsend. FAHM Exhibits in Skokie, sponsored by FANHS-Midwest and NaFFAA. Contact Jelly Carandang at (847) 679-7058 or msjellybeans@aol.com.
OCTOBER 15 FAHM Luncheon Honoring the Most Outstanding Fil-Am Seniors at Four Points by Sheraton Chicago O’Hare Airport 10249 West Irving Park Road Schiller Park, IL Sponsor – PACF, contact Adeline Fajardo at adeline.pacf96@gmail.com or Evelyn Natividad, Ph.D. (773) 426-5459 or e-mail ivynatividad9@gmail.com.
OCTOBER 21 8th Pamana Heritage Awards The Filipino American Historical Society Rio Grande (FANHS RG) in cooperation with the Filipino American Community council (FACC) will have their annual Pamana Heritage Awards in conjunction with Filipino-American History Month. Event will be at Wyndham Hotel, 2500 NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico from 2 - 4 p.m.
AJPRESS
FILIPINO-American History Month is celebrated annually every October owing to the fact that it was on October 15, 1857 that the presence of Filipinos in the United States was first recorded. The first Filipinos who came ashore were called “Luzones Indios.” They the boarded Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Esparanza and landed on what is now Morro Bay, California, according to the Filipino American National History Society (FANHS). In in 2009, the 111th U.S. Congress passed a resolution officially recognizing October as Filipino American History month. Since their arrival in 1857, Filipinos have made their mark in U.S. history and society, raising both the American and Philippine flags. Here are some notable FilAms, in no particular order: 1. Rob Bonta, California Assemblymember Born in Quezon City, Bonta made history when he was elected to the California State Assembly in 2012, making him the first Filipino-American state legislator. Since then, he has been representing the Filipino community in an effort put their issues forward and advocate for the rights of his fellow. In 2013, he proposed legislation that would require California public schools to teach students the contributions of Fil-Am farm workers’ in the farm labor movement. It was later signed the same year by Gov. Jerry Brown. 2. Philip Vera Cruz and Larry Itliong, farmers and activists Founders of the United Farm Workers (UFW) Union. They were both leaders for farm worker rights. Cruz was one of the founders of of the Agriculture Worker Organizing Committee (AWOC), which later merged with Cesar Chavez’s National Farm
FAHM Celebration dinner and dance at Penna’s of Sterling, 38400 Van Dyke Avenue, Sterling Heights, MI 48312. Sponsored by NaFFAA-Michigan, Contact Tony Kho (248) 755-6122 or Becky Tungol (248) 755-6119.
Regional Food Fare* at Filipino Cultural Center, 9810 We 79th St. Overland Park, KS 66204. Sponsored by the Filipino Association of Greater Kansas City, contact Lucila Rider, rider1215@yahoo.com or call (816) 522-3854
Rob Bonta, California’s first Fil-Am Assembly member
Workers Association (NFWA) and gave birth to the UFW. Itliong was a labor leader that founded the Filipino Farm Labor Union (FFLU) and was the President of AWOC. He was a self-taught labor leader who handled protests in California and Alaska. Along With Cruz, he convinced Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta’s predominantly Mexican/ Latino National Farm Workers Association to join the Grape Strike and Boycott of 1965 demanding better pay and benefits. Composed of mainly Filipinos, the AWOC initiated the infamous “Delano Grape Strike” that lasted more than five years since 1965. Most farm workers resided in Delano, California, have voted to strike against the table-grape growers and demand them wages equal to the federal minimum wage. A week after the strike began, the predominantly Mexican American National Farmworkers Association (NFWA) led by Cesar Chavez joined the struggle at Delano. AWOC and NFW later banded Filipino and Mexican farm workers and became known as United Farm Workers Union (UFW). The success of the grape boycott has made the growers sign their first union contracts, Continued on Page SF3
FAHNS Los Angeles Chapter’s film screening of “Fall of the I Hotel,” a documentary by Curtis Choy at the LA Public Library, Echo Park Branch, 1410 West Temple Street at 1 p.m. Contact (424) 488-3846. City of Carson 8th Annual Larry Itliong Celebration at Veterans Park, 22400 Moneta Avenue, Carson from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Free admission, for more info call (310) 952-1743.
OCTOBER 22 Brooklyn Nets 2nd Annual Filipino Heritage Night vs the Atlanta Braves at the Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, New York at 3:30 p.m.
OCTOBER 28 Larry Itliong Day 3rd annual Parade & Festival “Weaving our Communities.” Join the Larry Itliong Day Committee (LIDC) in honoring the legacy of Fil-Am labor leader Larry Itliong at the Unidad Park (parade) and St. Colombian Church (festival program). Admission is free. For information: LarryItliongDayLA@ gmail.com. Film showing of the acclaimed writer-director John Sayles’ “Amigo” with Joel Torre, Chris Cooper, Rio Locsin, Bembol Roco and Yul Vasquez. Central United Methodist Church, 8237 N. Kenton, Skokie. Call Mariano Santos (847) 528-4991 for details.
OCTOBER 29 FAHM display exhibits and film showing of “Amigo” with Joel Torre, Chris Cooper, Rio Locsin, Bembol Roco and Yul Vasquez at Indian Prairie Library at 401 Plainfield Rd, Darien, IL. Sponsored by FAASD, contact Jose Soloria at (630)915-5956 or e-mail jsoloria@comcast.net.
UNTIL OCTOBER 30 “Filipino History Unveiled Through the Arts,” a display of the collaborative mural by five Fil-Am artists from Chicago and five artists from the Philippines and art work of local Filipino American artists Monica Acosta, Paul Balan, Tita Brady, Fred de Asis, Lea Rivera and Susan Silvano. At Trickster Arts Gallery, 190 S. Roselle St., Schaumburg, Illinois.
features SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – October 6, 2017
Filipinos’ contributions to US history... From Page SF2
Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales with concert producer Donnie Pestrana
‘an evening with Pilita’ comes to Bay area, Sacramento this October Legendary singer-songwrier/recording artist/actress/ host Pilita Corrales is coming to the Bay area for two shows in October – October 15 in San Francisco, and October 21 in Sacramento. dubbed “an evening with Pilita,” the show will feature the timeless voice and signature style of the Pilita Corrales, who holds the distinction of being the first female artist to top the australian pop music chart, the first Filipino singer to perform in Las Vegas (at Ceasar’s Palace, through the invitation of the late Sammy davis Jr.), and the first Filipino to bag an the top performer award in an international music festival (Tokyo Music Festival, 1972. Known all over the world as “asia’s Queen of Songs,” Pilita is almost into her seventh decade as a performer. She started her recording career shortly after arriving in australia in 1957. In the Philippines, Pilita is known for hosting a multiawarded television program, “an evening with Pilita” from 1965 to 1972, as well as her recordings of Tagalog, Filipino and Spanish songs, including “Kapantay ay Langit,” “a Million Thanks To you,” “dili na Mausab,” “Kay Langit Ko ang gugma Mo,” “Matud nila,” “Saan Ka Man naroroon,” “Vaya Con dios (Farewell)” and “Solamente Una Vez (Just Once.” Her work on television and movies have showcased her comedic talents, including roles in sitcoms such as “My driver Sweet Lover,” “Toda Max,” “Full House” and “Vampire ang daddy Ko.” She has been involved in talent competitions like ang Bagong Kampeon and Tanghalan ng Kampeon, and served as a judge for The X Factor Philippines.
“an evening with Pilita” is produced by the husband and wife tandem of donnie and Cecilia Pestrana. according to donnie, both he and his wife are very excited to be bringing Pilita Corrales back to the Bay area again. It was in 2008 when they first produced a concert featuring Pilita in the Bay area. “a lot of people have been clamoring for us to bring Pilita back to the Bay area. It is an honor to do a show with asia’s Queen of Songs,” he said, while adding that they have been become friends with the legendary singer over the years. “Iba talaga ang dating niya. Talagang pinagmamalaki namin siya at ang bait-bait pa niya,” donnie related. Pestrana said that their main objectives in producing these types of shows are to make audiences happy and give concertgoers a type of show that they rarely experience. “Monetary gain is not what we are after,” he explained. “If we make money, we would like to give a donation to a charitable organization.” For the San Francisco show at the Hilton San Francisco airport Bayfront on October 15, which starts at 6pm, participating acts will include Mitch Smith, Frank dela rosa, rolly Halili, Janelle Ferraro and Tiffany Carandang. Maribeth Lalongisp will emcee the the pre-show. Tickets are priced at $70 (VIP), $50 (Premium and $30 (general admission). For the Sacramento show at the Crowne Plaza Sacramento on October 21, which starts at 7pm, Pilita will have special guests Mitch Franco, gemma Franco and Mitch Smith. Tickets are priced at $60 (VIP), $45 (Premium) and $30 (general admission).
For tickets and more information on the San Francisco show, please call the following: Maribeth (650) 362-3052, Thelma (510) 386-7737, Veronica (650) 255-7941, donnie (916) 335-2930, aries (510) 421-3335, evelyn (415) 879-1778 or Uni (650) 892-2578. For particulars on the Sacramento show and/or tickets, please call the following: Vickie (916) 791-5325, gemma (530) 313-3480, Bona (916) 308-2219 or donnie (916) 335-2930.
(Advertising Supplement)
Some notable... From Page SF2 granting workers better salary and protection. 3. Monique Lhuillier, fashion designer Cebu-hailed Monique Lhuillier has already etched her name on the bridal fashion industry as she’s been designing numerous bridal gowns and dresses for Hollywood a-listers and celebrities. daughter of real estate investors and jeweler, Michel and amparito Lhuillier, Monique started her career with Melivier in 1996 as a designer. By 2001, she opened her first store in Beverly Hills and expanded her business to home decors and handbags six years later. Monique got her big break in 2005 when Martha Stewart Weddings featured her bridal gown. now, she’s been the favorite designer of celebrities such as eva Longoria, Kate Bosworth, drew Barrymore and Zoe Saldana when it comes to the red carpet outfits. 4. Jose Antonio Vargas a former Washington Post journalist, Jose antonio Vargas won a Pulitzer Prize in 2008 for
Town mates and Friends:
Please join us in celebration of our
508/ '*&45" TU '06/%*/( "//*7&34"3: 0' #"4$ JO -"4 7&("4 /&7"%" When: Saturday, October 7, 2017 Where: Gold Coast Hotel and Casino, 400 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89103 Prepaid Dinner Buffet ticket only: $65 per person Please make check payable to: Aludiya Lagmay-Ganzon 8119 Mary E Ellen Avenue, North Hollywood, California 91605 - or Priscilla Castaneto-Ruedas 6851 Dale Street Apartment # 16, Buena Park, California 90621
Nazario Perlas: Precy Castaneto- Ruedas: Lito Tambo: Ludy Lagmay-Ganzon: Mila Tadina: Josie Dolor Etrata: Mary Ann Arichea–Caunan:
workers better pay and necessary benefit. Fil-am leaders Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz reached out to Chavez to help organize the union. Historians credit dolores Huerta, one of the many activists for being the first to start the strike. 3) Fil-Ams have been a part of many advocacy movements throughout U.S. history. In the late ’60s, Filipinos were at the forefront against corporate interest in the U.S. during what they call the “radical 60s”. Take for example the campaign against the eviction of elderly tenants of the International Hotel in Manilatown area in San Francisco, which housed asian laborers — with Filipinos being the majority of them. Inspired by Mao Zedong’s political slogan, “Serve the People,” asian americans invited students to participate the movement. Most of the Filams who joined the movement
nazario.perlas@yahoo.com pcruedas@yahoo.com lito.tambo@sbcglobal.net lganzon@gmail.com mrtadina@yahoo.com wilpenn@yahoo.com macaunan@ha.ucla.edu
*Discounted Room rates available at Gold Coast Hotel & Casino until September 3, 2017: Code: ABA2017
covering the Virginia Tech shooting. Jose has also been in the scene of filmmaking and media entrepreneurship. He founded define american, a non-profit media advocacy that aims to humanize conversation on immigration, citizenship, and identity through storytelling in the ever-changing america. In 2011, the new york Times published a groundbreaking essay he wrote which revealed and chronicled about his life in america as an undocumented immigrant. He then produced and directed “documented,” a documentary film about his experience as an undocumented immigrant. It was theatrically and broadcasted on Cnn in 2004 and received a 2015 national association for the advancement of Colored People (naaCP) Image award nomination for Outstanding documentary. a year later, he appeared on the TIMe magazine cover with his fellow undocumented immigrants, as a follow-up story to his essay. He since has been contribut-
were children of farmworkers and WW II veterans who also participated in the equal Opportunity Program (eOP) or went to college through special admissions for disadvantaged students. according to estrella Habal‘s book, “San Francisco International Hotel: Mobilizing the Filipino american Community in the anti-eviction Movement,“ the Fil-am community’s involvement in the anti-eviction movement gave way to the rise of a working-class consciousness, betraying the middle class dreams of their immigrant parents. In 2015, alvarado Middle School was renamed the ItliongVeracruz Middle School after the Fil-am labor leaders, thanks to the efforts of Filipino-americans. The school was the first ever school in the U.S. to be named after a Filipino-american. In 2016, Fil-ams made a successful attempt to rename the South of Market (SoMa)
district of San Francisco to SoMa Pilipinas, yet another historical recognition that manifests the Filipinos and U.S. relations. 4) Fil-Ams have a significant presence in the arts and in hip-hop culture. you name it — theater, rap and entertainment — Filipinos are there! There’s Lea Salonga who is the first Filipina to win a Tony award, popular musicians like “High School Musical” alum Vanessa Hudgens, singer-composer Bruno Mars and apl.de.ap of the Black eyed Peas. Fil-am disk jockeys and beatmakers, including dJ neil armstrong, dJ Q-Bert, dJ Icy Ice, as well as b-boys and dance crews also rise to popularity. add to this list the more recent ones — members of groups featured on “america’s Best dance Crew” like the Jabbawockeez, Super Cr3W, and Quest Crew. This has all helped shaped america’s pop culture.
ing editor to Huffington Post on Technology and College Sections. Other worth mentioning are: • Vicki Manalo-draves, the first woman to win two gold medals in springboard diving at the 1948 Olympics in London.
• geno espineli - retired baseball pitcher for the SF giants. He was born in Houston, Texas to Filipino parents. • Bobby Balcena - Became the first player of Filipino ancestry Continued on Page SF5
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celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - October 6, 2017
celebrity world By Ferdie Villar COngratulatiOns to Pokwang and lee O’Brian for their upcoming baby girl! the comedienne and her american boyfriend made the announcement during their gender reveal party happened last sunday, October 1. the couple celebrated together with friends angelica Panganiban, Kim Chiu, Bela Padilla and Darla sauler.
It’s a girl for Pokwang and Lee O’Brian, Zsa Zsa Padilla opts for a simple wedding
Pokwang — whose real name is Marietta subong — confirmed her pregnancy in June 2017 and is expected to give birth in February 2018. this is her second pregnancy with O’Brian; the first was lost in a miscarriage. the couple met on the set of “Edsa Woolworth” and have been in a relationship since 2015. *** all is rosy and happy in
The Divine Diva Zsa Zsa Padilla shared that although she and fiance Conrad Onglao have not set a date for their wedding, they both agree that they only want a simple ceremony.
Zsa Zsa Padilla’s lovelife, now that she and boyfriend, architect Conrad Onglao are back together and people now are asking when they are going to tie the knot. However, the Divine Diva shared that she and her fiance Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales will have a have not talked about a date Handsome Kapuso actor Miguel Tanfelix celebrated concert dubbed, “An Evening with Pilita,” on Octoyet. Zsa Zsa only said that she his 19th birthday last September 21 with his relaber 15 at the Hilton San Francisco Airport Bayfront, is only sure of one thing about tives and close friends, with a party organized by his Burlingame and October 21 at the Crowne Plaza their possible wedding, is that it onscreen partner Bianca Umali. Sacramento. is going to be a simple one, as opposed to their original plan of getting married in Florence, italy. “Wedding? i really want to...palagi kong sinasabi na magtatanan na lang kami,” the 53-year-old singer-actress said in an interview with Philippine Entertainment Portal. “Ayoko talaganga mabongga, gusto ko talaga, parang judge lang, tapos na.” Zsa Zsa also added that she mentioned to her fiance that for them, a big wedding is somewhat not appropriate. “Ang importante ay mangyayari na,” she said. Filipino-American actor Tom Rodriguez celebrated his *** Filipina restaurateur and former owner of Club El 30th birthday last Sunday, October 1. Tom is part Kundiman legend ric Manof the GMA teleserye, “Someone to Watch Over Me” Mundo Baby Byram is back in the Bay Area to visit rique Jr. passed away in Califorher relatives and friends. with beautiful actress Lovi Poe.
nia last september 23 from a heart attack and complications from diabetes. He was 76. Manrique was a member of the famed Mabuhay singers, a group under the Villar Music label that specialized in native Filipino songs. With dreams of a solo career, he decided to try his luck by joining “tawag ng tanghalan (tnt)” on radio and tV in the 1960s. although he lost in the finals of “tnt,” his stint with the talent show was the starting point for his career as a recording artist. “tnt” director teddy Valdemor gave Manrique one of his compositions, “till i Die,” to record, which was also the theme of the popular soap opera “Diwa ng Pag-asa.” it was also Manrique’s crystal clear baritone with plaintive melodies and tagalog lyrics that introduced modern variations on the kundiman and brought about his biggest hits. Many of the songs he recorded are now considered the classics that bridged the path between the haranas of ruben tagalog and
Comedienne Pokwang and her American boyfriend Lee O’Brian are expecting a baby girl in February. The announcement was made during the couple’s gender reveal party last Sunday, October 1.
Kundiman legend Ric Manrique Jr. passed away in California last September 23 from a heart attack and complications from diabetes. He was 76.
the Western-influenced pop ballads of the ’60s era. among these are: “sapagka’t Kami ay tao lamang,” “Dahil sa isang Bulaklak,” “ang Daigdig Ko’y ikaw, Maruja,” “tanging Diyos lamang ang nakakaalam,”
“saan Ka Man naroroon,” “Magkaibang Daigdig,” “lahat ng araw,” “Paano Kita lilimutin,” “Kapag Puso’y sinugatan, Birheng Walang Dambana” and “iginuhit sa Buhangin.” Our sympathies to the family of Manrique.
Bailey May poised to go global ‘PAMANA: Creating Legacy’ at the 4th Filipino American International Book Festival on Oct. 6-8 by Fiel
estrella Philstar.com
it was at his dad’s suggestion that Bailey May began to upload videos of himself singing on the internet, covering sean Kingston and Daniel Padilla. He managed to get 5,000 views on the first day, and eventually gained a big enough following to audition for “Pinoy Big Brother: 737” in 2015. “actually, i didn’t plan it at all,” he recalls. “it just blew up overnight. that was the crazy thing about it, because the outcome was so unexpected. Everything just worked out, (and) it gave me the opportunity to get into PBB.” Bailey, who was 12 at the time, became the youngest contestant to ever join the show, finishing fourth. Young fans were smitten with his princely British accent and refreshingly cheerful demeanor. they swooned when he struck up a kinship with fellow housemate Ylona garcia that maybe evolved into something more. Born in Cebu and raised in England, Bailey has the distinction of being from two places at once. Of his upbringing, he says, “My parents were just normal parents.” the Mays were strict, but fair; they implemented a curfew and always looked out for their son. “they kept me on my feet and away from bad habits,” he adds. “i think they’ve raised me to be a normal, genuine person.” in the two years since he first came to prominence, Bailey shares that his life has changed considerably. “Before, i was just a normal kid. i played sports all the time, went to school.” Becoming a teen idol is not without its difficulties: there’s less privacy, and you’re forced to grow up a little bit. “i don’t know how to say it,” he says. “With the pressure i’m (under), i feel older.” and it looks like all that practice — and all that dreaming — is paying off in a monumental, possibly history-making way. in august, Bailey flew to los angeles with Ylona, aC Bonifacio and Jane de leon to represent the Philippines in a weeklong boot camp with simon Fuller, creator of such pop-culture greats as the spice girls and american idol.
All grown up: At 15, Bailey is now one of the most watched and followed celebrities in the local scene. Philstar.com photo
the endgame: a coveted spot in now united, a global pop group that’s the first of its kind, with 11 artists from 11 countries, set for a 2018 launch. think s Club 7 (another Fuller creation) for a generation raised by the internet. “We performed in front of simon Fuller,” Bailey recalls. “it was very nerve-wracking because it’s simon Fuller — he’s seen so many talented people!” But he says this only inspired him to give his best. “i can say that it was the best week of my life,” he gushes. “it felt so good to meet new people from different countries (who shared) the same passion. it was such a great experience. i learned so much.” Bailey made the first cut, and after a few nail-biting weeks of hush-hush decision-making, it was announced that he’s been invited to become an official member of now united. He’s flying back to la for another boot camp, and he’s ecstatic. You’d be forgiven for forgetting that Bailey’s only halfway through his teen years. asked how he’s making the most of his youth, his answer is matter-of-fact, and a testament to the earnest young man he’s become. “i’m just enjoying life,” he shrugs. “My parents always keep me grounded and i always hang out with my friends. that’s pretty much it.”
san FranCisCO, Ca — When gemma nemenzo first envisioned and created the first Filipino american international Book Festival, aka FilBookFest, in 2011, through the literacy initiatives international Foundation, the Filipino american community in the san Francisco Bay area and beyond supported this gathering of Filipino writers and artists from the united states and the Philippines so they could take part in presentations, readings, and panel discussions at the Main Branch of the san Francisco Public library. the public met their favorite and new authors and creatives, and purchased their books and other offerings. the original idea evolved into a biennial event in 2013 and 2015. On October 6 to 8, the 2017 FilBookFest continues “to ride the waves of success”. this year’s activities lead off with a prefestival screening of sari raissa lluch Dalena’s “Dahling nick”, a docu-drama that explores the life and works of Philippine national artist for literature nick Joaquin on thursday, October 5, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Philippine Center, 447 sutter street, Philippine Folklife Museum on the 5th floor. this free event has limited seating. rsVP is requested by emailing pawa@pawainc.com with the names of the guests. FilBookFest4 will host a private Opening gala reception on October 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Koret auditorium, san Francisco Public library, Main Branch, 100 larkin street. the keynote speaker will be Elda rotor, vice president and publisher of Penguin Classics, which has published works by Philippine national hero José rizal, and distinguished Filipino authors such as Carlos Villa and nick Joaquin. rotor will also be a panelist during the festival. noteworthy is the presence of authors such as Mia alvar from new York times, Eileen r. tabios, and raissa robles, an investigative journalist. FilBookFest4 opens its doors
to the public at 10:00 am on saturday, October 7 at the san Francisco Public library, Main Branch. the latino Community Meeting room is the venue for book sales and informational tables from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. FilBookFest’s organizers will have a short program at the Koret auditorium from 10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. Visitors are encouraged to go to a series of panels, readings and presentations starting at 11 a.m. at the Koret auditorium. On the schedule is a panel discussion on “Filipino and Filipino american Women Writing Contemporary History” and a talk about the “Philippines’ biodiversity”. the learning studio on the 5th floor will host “love, Death and taxi Dance Halls in Depression Era California”. a “Children’s storytelling Hour” will take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Children’s Center on the 2nd floor. among the authors, Canadian publisher Marina Hamoy will showcase her new children’s books that use diacritics to teach beginning readers how to pronounce words in “sebwano” and tagalog. newly-published books are being presented throughout saturday afternoon by authors who will read selections from their books during the “Hot Off the Press” series 1 & 2 at the Koret auditorium. One panel will discuss “My Family’s slave and the Overseas Filipino Workers’ Experience”. “My Family’s
slave”, the late journalist alex tizon’s powerful account of Eudocia Pulido’s life as an indentured servant, was published in June this year. it sparked a heated debate on the plight of domestic helpers and overseas Filipino workers. al tizon joins other panelists in exploring the impact of his brother’s controversial essay. at the learning studio, a panel discussion on “Word + image: Filipino american art as inspiration” will be followed by a group of children’s book authors who will discuss their journey from concept, creation, publication, and beyond. the evening ends on a high note with a screening of the Kino arts documentary on Filipino comic book artists from Jose rizal to the present, “Komikero Chronicles”. Keith sicat, the director, will be present. the venue is the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center, 447 sutter street. On sunday, October 8, the festival doors will be open from 12 noon to 4:30 p.m. simultaneous activities are on the program at Koret auditorium and the learning studio starting at 12:30 p.m. “graphically speaking” and “Filipino Voices in Publishing” are the first panels. “Hot Off the Press 3” at the Koret auditorium will focus on readings by more authors at 1:45 p.m. special mention goes to sansu ramsey who authored the late Elizabeth ramsey’s revealing memoir, as well as Mila de guzman and
rene Ciria-Cruz, among others. “Content: graphic” at the learning studio will also begin at 1:45 p.m. an “artist alley” at the lobby of Koret auditorium/Café area at 3:20 p.m. will coincide with a gathering of guest poets at the Koret auditorium for “Filipino and Filipino-american Poets in Conversation”, such as tony robles, a short list Finalist for Poet laureate of san Francisco 2017. simultaneously, the learning studio will host “On Writing narrative Fiction”. FilBookFest closes its doors at 4:40 p.m. a Festival Closing reception takes place at the international Hotel Manilatown Center and gallery, 868 Kearny street, starting at 6 p.m. Concurrent with the book fest is the Hinabi Project’s exhibit, “Weaving Peace and Dreams: textile arts of Mindanao,” at the Mills Building, 220 Montgomery in san Francisco (september 18 to november 24, 2017), sponsored by PaWa, nCCa, ntFP-EP Philippines, PCg of san Francisco, DOt in san Francisco, and other community partners. the FilBookFest’s schedule is available at http://filbookfestival.org/page6/. the Philippine american Writers and artists (PaWa), san Francisco Public library, Filipino american Center (sFPl), and the Philippine Consulate general of san Francisco are the organizers of FilBookFest4. For more information, contact pawa@pawainc.com.
Star Magic Ball couples share entertainment SF5 ‘kilig’ moments on red carpet Xander Ford shocks, delights netizens The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - October 6, 2017
THE 11th Star Magic Ball last Saturday, Sept. 30 at the Makati Shangri-La was not just a party, it was a gathering of some of the country’s hottest on-and-offscreen couples. Romance filled the air not only due to event stylist Robert Blancaflor’s elegant mixup of flowers, candles and chandeliers, but also because the following pairs showed genuine sweetness and shared their super “kilig” stories on the red carpet. As event host Tim Yap quipped, “Couples make each other more beautiful!” KissMarc Actress and former “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate Kisses Delavin had been looking forward for her first Star Magic Ball because as she told reporters: “It’s one of the most glamorous nights of the year. I just want to make my mama and papa proud!” When Kisses’ love team partner and fellow PBB housemate, Marco Gallo, asked her to go with him to the ball, she told herself, “I’m going to give Marco a chance.” The two, indeed, went happy as they were hailed the Best Dressed Couple this year. JoshLia “Indescribable! It’s so hard to describe a feeling. I was very overwhelmed. It felt like a dream!” Julia Barretto said of Joshua Garcia’s proposal for her. With help from fans, Joshua
Marco Gallo and Kisses Delavin
by Maridol
ranoa-BisMark Philstar.com
Julia Barretto and Joshua Garcia
arranged an entire choir to serenade Julia at her garden. “I guess, it’s every girl’s dream to experience something like that. So I’m lucky that he’s so romantic and he’s an old soul. Chivalry isn’t dead after all!” When Joshua was asked how does she look, he said: “Perfect!” MayWard PBB Big Winner Maymay Entrata could not believe that she now had the chance to enter one of showbiz’s most exclusive parties. Edward only had one goal for the night: “I want to make it memorable for her as much as possible!” KathNiel After days of sleepless nights for shooting fight scenes in “La Luna Sangre,” Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla were happy they were able to relax and catch up with friends at the ball. He was wearing a purple suit, when the theme was black and white, so when asked by Philstar.com why he went beyond the theme, he said with a loud laugh: “Meron ba? Sorry, ‘di ko alam!” Kath, nonetheless, liked what Daniel wore. “He’s unique, hip, and handsome as usual!” KimXi According to Kim Chiu, she loves going with Xian to the because he is caring and a good gentleman. Xian, in turn, says he loves going with Kim because ABS-CBN photos she is fun to be with.
Edward Barber and Maymay Entrata
Xian allegedly started the trend for grand proposals, but this year, he now just casually asked her “to let the younger ones shine.” Kim clarified in an interview with Philstar.com that she and Xian did not plan to release their albums before the ball within days from each other. McLisse It was McCoy de Leon’s third year at Star Magic Ball with Elisse Joson, though this was the seventh ball for Elisse. Though McCoy is always perceived as a comic, Elisse guaranteed that McCoy is really romantic, as she experienced in his date proposal. According to her, through the years, “Unti-unti kong nakikita ‘yung romantic side, very sweet” side of McCoy. Bailona PBB housemates Bailey May and Ylona Garcia were among the youngest to attend the ball. “I’m very excited because it’s a very good experience,” said Bailey, who went overseas to improve a lot on his dancing. He will again go on a talent boot camp next month. “It’s filled with ups and downs and it’s all crazy!” said Ylona of her own workshop experience. Luis Manzano and Jessy Mendiola Before Luis donated more than P200,000 for a cancer patient who was a contestant in his game show, he told report-
COunT Marlou Arizala as one of those who does not believe in the old adage “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” The Hasht-5 member who first got noticed after viral lipsync “papogi” videos, and got his biggest break when he was asked to guests in “Gandang Gabi Vice,” got sick and tired of being called ugly when he was younger. So he decided to undergo plastic surgery and morph into the handsome Xander Ford with the clear skin, aquiline nose and fuller cheeks. The transformation was so amazing, Marlou and Xander Ford became the number two trending topic worldwide. netizens are having a field day describing his transformation from that of a pinipig to a classy magnum ice cream. up high in the list of most well-loved comments is how “words could affect a person either physically or mentally.” netizens who support Marlou say it’s just right for him to change his looks if it makes him happy. Another says that Marlou’s experience proves that poverty can make one look ugly.
Before and after shots of Xander Ford circulating on social media.
now that Marlou is dead, and Xander Ford has taken over, the man of the hour, his parents and growing number of fans agree a brighter future awaits him. During a recent appearance in “Rated K,” the camera showed howXander Ford’s fans, waving banners with his name printed on them as they chanted his name over and over. His parents, Aniceto and Merly, who were present at the studio, shed tears of joy. They went on stage to hug him and show their happiness over his
Some notable...
new look. Xander Ford told the audience he can now finally work seriously as an actor to help his parents. He now talks and moves with more confidence, and his stylist can come up with various types of clothes Xander can wear with ease and composure. Xander has also become a photographer’s delight as he changes his poses every now and then to look more interesting before the camera. Star Image Artist is managing Xander Ford.
From Page SF3 to appear in a major league game. He had a long distinguished Triple-A career with the Seattle Rainiers as a center fielder in the 1950s, and in Seattle is fondly remembered to this day. • Peter Aquino Aduja - The first Fil-Am elected to public office in the united States. He was
elected as a representative in the Hawaii Legislature in 1954. • Benjamin Cayetano - First Fil-Am governor in the u.S. • Mona Pasquil - First Filipino, female and Asian lieutenant governor for the State of California. *Editor’s note: It is a fact that many Filipinos (and not just
Fil-Ams) have made their mark in different industries and societies all over the world. May it be in politics, sports, entertainment, technology, military, journalism, culinary and others; it is no doubt that Filipinos are regarded as hardworking, intelligent and persevering people. Unfortunately, we do not have enough space to mention all of them in this piece, but we acknowledge their contributions.
ers that he is already planning a wedding proposal for Jessy. Jessy said Luis’ mom, Vilma Santos-Recto, is always happy to see her. She calls her “Tita” because she is still “nahihiya,” though Vilma has been asking her to call her “momskie.” Billy Crawford and Coleen Garcia This was the last Star Magic Ball where Billy and Coleen will walk as singles. “I’m really excited because
the next gown I will be in is my wedding gown. We’re just really looking forward to that big day!” said Coleen. According to her, she is no “bridezilla” because she feels like everything is going to run smoothly at their wedding. “We’re both beach bums and it has a lot to do with our personality, just who we are,” she said of why they decided to tie the knot at the beach. “We’re really just easygo-
ing and we want to really relax. She’s very OC (obsessive-compulsive) and organized but super chill. Ako pa ‘yung mas nastrestress!” Other couples who graced the Star Magic Ball red carpet include Megan Young and Mikael Daez, Richard Gutierrez and Sarah Lahbati, Kristine Hermosa and Oyo Boy Sotto, and Rayver Cruz and Janine Gutierrez. (Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/Philstar.com)
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