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Volume 16 - No. 37 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

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DATELINE California sues Trump over DACA termination, $30-M planned for recipients FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

THE state of California filed a lawsuit on Monday, September 11 against the Trump administration over its decision to terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA).

California Governor Jerry Brown and state legislative leaders have also agreed to designate $30 million to help California DACA recipients. The state is home to over 200,000 DACA recipients.

California Attorney General Xavier Becerra was joined by attorneys general for Minnesota, Maryland, and Maine, in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration on Monday, over its decision to rescind DACA.

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$1-M fund announced to help DREAMers renew DACA by Oct. 5

S E P T E MBE R 1 5 - 2 1 , 2 0 1 7

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

Trump set to attend US-ASEAN summit in PH in November, likely to visit China

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

in Vietnam.

In April, Chinese President Xi Jinping invited FOLLOWING his scheduled visit to the Philippines, Trump to pay a state visit to Beijing when the two United States President Donald Trump will likely leaders met for the first time in Palm Beach, Florida.

They also met on the sidelines of the G20 summit make a stop to China this coming November.

A Reuters report on Tuesday, September 12 cited a in July.

Trump’s possible trip to China in November will U.S. official confirming Trump’s visit to Beijing.

Trump is set to attend the U.S.-ASEAN (Associa- come amid tensions over North Korea’s nuclear tion of Southeast Asian Nations) summit and the East tests.

The U.S. leader has been urging China to exert Asia summit in the Philippines in November. The U.S. president is also expected to later attend the more pressure on North Korea, saying it could easily Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit stop the latter’s nuclear advancement.

On Monday, September 11, the United Nations (UN) Security Council unanimously passed a resolution imposing new sanctions on North Korea just a week after the latter carried out its sixth and largest nuclear test.

The resolution, drafted by U.S., requires UN member states to cap North Korea’s crude oil imports, ban textile exports—Pyongyang’s second largest export after coal and other minerals in 2016—and end additional overseas laborer contracts, among others. “Today, we are saying the world will never accept

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PH senators vow to fight for higher CHR budget

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

SAN FRANCISCO—Mission Asset Fund (MAF) on Wednesday, Sept. 13, announced it will provide $1,000,000 in scholarships to 2,000+ DREAMers to pay for DACA renewals by the October 5 deadline.

Last week, the Trump administration announced that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program is ending. DACA has provided security, safety, and a livelihood for 800,000 young people commonly known as “DREAMers.� Of the 154,000 DREAMers eligible to renew their DACA permits before the program ends in six months, most will be able to cover the application costs themselves. For those DREAMers who are eligible for renewal

MANILA — Several Philippine senators vowed to ensure a higher budget for the Commission on Elections on Human Rights (CHR) in 2018 after the House of Representatives approved the constitutional body a measly P1,000 (around $20) budget for the next year.

One hundred and nineteen lawmakers from the lower chamber on Tuesday, September 12 voted to cut the agency’s proposed budget from P677 million to P1,000. Only 32 congressmen objected to the budget.

A mix of majority and minority senators have expressed opposition to the House decision, vowing to restore the full allocation of the agency, which has repeatedly criticized the alleged killings and abuses in President Rodrigo Duterte’s so-called drug war.

The Senate finance committee, chaired by Senator Loren Legarda, earlier approved the proposed CHR budget amounting to P678

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HONORING A MARAWI HERO. President Rodrigo Duterte visits the wake of the late 11th Scout Ranger Company Commander Captain Rommel Sandoval at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday, September 12. The President then presented the Order of Lapu Lapu (Kalasag Medal) to Maria Anna Sandoval, wife of the fallen soldier, for his heroism after he died while trying to save his wounded comrade during a clearing operation in war-torn Marawi City on September 10.

MalacaĂąang photo by Robinson NiĂąal

Sereno impeachment complaint sufficient in form, substance – House panel Philippine Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno sufficient in form THE House of Representatives and substance.

Justice Committee on Wednesday, The first complaint was filed by September 13, found the first lawyer Lorenzo “Larry� Gadon, impeachment complaint against u PAGE A4

by AJPRESS

Former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong� Marcos Jr., Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee and their mother, Imelda Marcos, listen to the national anthem during a wreath-laying ceremony at a monument for former President Ferdinand Marcos during celebrations to mark his 100th birthday in Batac, Ilocos Norte.

ManilaTimes.net photo

Critics, supporters face off at Marcos’ 100 birth anniversary

by DANA

SIOSON

AJPress

BOTH critics and supporters of late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos gathered outside Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) in Taguig city on Monday, September 11, for the centennial birth commemoration of the former dictator.

Security personnel were deployed to maintain order in the area. The air was charged with tension, but there were no reported violent incidents between the two opposing groups, composing of around 200 each.

Imelda Marcos, the widow of

the late president, has invited senators, House members, and other political personalities to the celebration of her husband’s 100th birthday anniversary.

Among those who attended the event were former President and current Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, and former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.

Also seen in photos released

by Ilocos Governor Imee Marcos, eldest daughter of the late president, were former Senator Francisco Tatad; former Prime Minister Cesar Virata; and former Central Bank Governor Jai-

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UN rights chief ‘gravely concerned’ over PH killings

by AJPRESS THE United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on Tuesday, September 12, said he is “gravely concerned� about Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s United Nations High Commissioner

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for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein Photo from UN.org

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The House Justice committee tackles the impeachment complaints against Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno (inset) on Wednesday, Sept. 13.

Inquirer.net photos

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From the Front Page

Trump set to attend US-ASEAN...

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a nuclear armed North Korea, and today the Security Council is saying that if the North Korean regime does not halt its nuclear program, we will act to stop it

ourselves,” U.S. Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley said following the vote Monday.

Crediting a “strong relationship” between Trump and Xi for the successful resolution negotia-

tions, Haley added: “If it agrees to stop its nuclear program, it can reclaim its future … if North Korea continues its dangerous path, we will continue with further pressure.”

$1-M fund announced to help DREAMers...

PAGE A1 t

but can’t afford the $495 application fee, MAF is stepping in with a solution now available nationwide: scholarships to help DREAMers renew their DACA status (LC4DACA. org).

Between now and the October 5 deadline, MAF will provide 2,000 DREAMers with scholarships of $495 to renew their DACA permit. Capital to finance these scholarships come from the DACA Renewal Fund, launched this week with growing support from the philanthropic community.

“We were shocked and horrified to learn that President Trump ended DACA,” says José Quiñonez, MAF’s CEO and 2016 MacArthur

“Genius” Fellow. He added, “We sprang into action once we saw a small window of opportunity to help thousands of DREAMers to renew their protective status. The time to help these young people is now.”

DACA recipients with a permit expiring between now and March 5 across the nation are eligible to receive the scholarships. $500,000 of the fund is being specifically targeted to California students attending community colleges, at California State Universities, and the University of California. As time is of the essence, this online scholarship will be processed within a day, with same-day checks available in San Francisco and by

overnight mail in other parts of the country.

MAF has a long history of working with DREAMers and has helped hundreds to pay for DACA application fees using a 0% interest loan. This initiative—offering scholarships within 24-48 hours to DREAMers—builds on this track record of success. DACA recipients with expiring permits are encouraged to visit LC4DACA. org and apply immediately.

Philanthropic supporters of this fund include: the Weingart Foundation, Irvine Foundation, Tipping Point Community, The Chavez Family Foundation, and San Francisco Foundation. (New America Media)

Members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Sept. 12 flash the clenched fist sign of President Rodrigo Duterte after they approved on second reading House Bill 6215 or the 2018 General Appropriations Bill. The bill includes reducing the Commission on Human Rights’ budget to P1,000.

Photo courtesy of the House of Representatives

PH senators vow to fight...

PAGE A1 t

million.

Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, vice chairman of the committee, questioned where the slashed funds million has been realigned, noting that the House version of the 2018 national budget stayed at P3.767 trillion.

“I happen to be the sponsor of the CHR budget in the Senate, along with a few other agencies like the DND (Department of National Defense), ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), etc.

I accept the challenge,” Lacson said in a Twitter post.

“It’s interesting to find out how the P677 million was chopped,” he added.

In a message, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto assured that the Senate will restore the CHR budget. Citing the increasing extrajudicial deaths in the country, he pointed out that the agency might need more funds.

“The CHR is a constitutional body mandated by the constitution to protect our human rights. It may even need more resources considering the number of extrajudicial killings,” Recto said.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian remarked that the House decision “effectively abolish the CHR,” which he said serves as an impor-

tant “check and balance” to the government.

“Congress should not reduce the budget of the Commission on Human Rights, a constitutionally mandated body, to a mere P1,000.

This would effectively abolish the CHR, at least for the coming fiscal year, in clear contravention of the constitutional provision mandating the establishment of this independent office,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero also vowed to fight to restore the CHR budget, saying, “The CHR is a constitutional imperative and a necessity, however inconvenient it may be for some.”

Likewise, Senator Joel Villanueva, stressed that the CHR ”has a constitutional duty to protect the people from abuses.”

Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, meanwhile, expressed certainty that Senate “will give a more generous budget” to the CHR. “It is a body tasked to check abuse and uphold fundamental rights. Recall that was the CHR which discovered the hidden cell in a city jail with women and children unaccounted for. That act alone justifies more,” Angara added.

Senate Minority Floor Leader Franklin Drilon warned of a possible deadlock in the 2018 budget

Critics, supporters face off...

PAGE A1 t me Laya.

President Rodrigo Duterte did not attend the commemoration.

The Marcos family reportedly extended an invitation to him but a Malacañang source said Duterte was not invited to the event.

Duterte has declared September 11 a non-working holiday in Ilocos Norte, the home province of Marcos, upon the request of the late president’s family.

Justifying the decision, he noted that the people of Ilocos believe that criticism and cases of human rights abuses and corruption against Marcos were mere “hogwash” and “garbage.”

“He (Marcos) was a president. To the Ilocanos, he was the greatest president. Why do we have to debate on that? It’s one day where they can celebrate the anniversary of a great Ilocano. As far as the Ilocanos (are)

and the reenactment of the 2017 budget.

“The Senate, I would like to think, will not stand for the abolition of the CHR, through giving it a P1,000 budget. If the House will insist on that, then there will be a deadlock for 2018 general appropriations act,” Drilon said.

Minority Senators Francis Pangilinan, Bam Aquino, and Risa Hontiveros also shared the same sentiments.

Pangilinan dismissed the House decision as “Kalokohan (Nonsense).” He said the Senate will “strongly oppose” the meager CHR budget’s approval in the Senate even it means the non-passage of the 2018 budget Aquino, on the other hand, said the CHR needs to continue doing its duty as mandated by the Constitution as he took note of the supposed spate of drug war killings and police abuses.

“What government in its right mind would give a P1,000 budget to the [CHR]? Speaker Alvarez’s demand for the CHR head to resign is out of place,” Hontiveros said in an interview with ANC on Wednesday, September 15.

House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez earlier insisted that the agency is the not doing its job. Prior to the deliberations, he said CHR Chairman Chito Gascon should

u PAGE A4 concerned, Marcos is a hero,” Duterte said over the weekend.

In a statement, the Liberal Party (LP) condemned the celebration of a man “who has caused his country so much pain and suffering.”

“Today should not have been treated any differently. Today should not have been singled out as anything more than an ordinary Monday,” the party added.

In a separate statement, Vice President Leni Robredo, who is also the LP chair, criticized Malacañang’s declaration of Marcos’ birth anniversary as a holiday.

“What’s there to celebrate? As if we are trying to forget the sins they have committed against the Filipinos. As if we’re trying to revise the story, the history, which is not right,” Robredo said in an interview on Sunday, September 10.

For Akbayan Rep. Tom Villarin, there was no reason to celebrate the birth anniversary of the dictator, whose two-decade regime was marked by killings, abuses, and corruption.

“Justice not compromise, uphold our laws and punish the wrongdoers! Marcos centennial birthday is no cause for celebration but a national tragedy heaped upon us,” Villarin remarked.

He went on to say, “President Duterte’s glorification of the late dictator and his entombment in the Libingan ng mga Bayani reflects how the present administration has distorted our values and beliefs as Filipinos.” n

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PH gov’t intensifies post-disaster response California sues Trump over DACA termination... operations on Irma-hit Caribbean islands PAGE A1 t

Sailors load cases of food and water into a Navy C-20 Gulfstream logistics aircraft at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla. The Sailors packed vacant seats aboard the aircraft with the supplies which will be flown to NAS Key West, Fla., to provide relief from the aftermath of Hurricane Irma.

U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. David Hecht

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Embassy Response Team entered the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and met with the Filipino community there on Monday, September 11, Minister Patrick A. Chuasoto, Chargé d’Affaires of the Philippine Embassy, reported to Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alan Peter S. Cayetano.

The primary mission of the Response Team is to alleviate the suffering of kababayans reeling from the devastating effects of Hurricane Irma, which slammed into the BVI and other islands in the Caribbean last week. The Philippine government’s assistance is mainly in the form of providing basic supplies to and facilitating the repatriation of affected Filipino nationals in the British overseas territory.

To date, there are 135 kababayans in the BVI who have requested repatriation assistance from the Philippine government. The

Philippine Embassy clarified that those who volunteer to be repatriated will be directly brought to the Philippines.

As directed by Secretary Cayetano, the Embassy also dispatched a second two-member Response Team to provide logistical and administrative support from Puerto Rico. Additional teams are on stand-by in case there is a need for additional deployment in Puerto Rico or other areas. The extent of the damage in the Caribbean region is gradually becoming clear as more areas become accessible to the outside world.

In the meantime, Dr. Henry B. Howard, the Philippine Honorary Consul in Florida, reported that “kababayan communities in Pensacola, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa and Miami-Ft. Lauderdale have largely dodged the bullet known as ‘Hurricane Irma’”. Filipino leaders in Tampa also said that the storm caused less dam-

UN rights chief ‘gravely...

PAGE A1 t “open support for a shoot-to-kill policy” against crime suspects.

In his opening speech before the 36th Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, human rights chief Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein emphasized the “lack of respect for due process rights” in the Philippines.

“In the Philippines, I continue to be gravely concerned by the president’s open support for a shoot-to-kill policy regarding suspects, as well as by the apparent absence of credible investigations into reports of thousands of extrajudicial killings, and the failure to prosecute any perpetrator,” Al Hussein said.

He cited the killing of 17-yearold Kian delos Santos, which Philippine Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II described as an “isolated case.”

Delos Santos was killed during an anti-drug operation on August 16 in Caloocan City after allegedly resisting arrest, but witnesses claim the police dragged the boy into an alley, gave him a gun, and told him to run for his life.

“Two days after hundreds of people turned out for the teenager’s funeral, the president again told police they would not be punished for killing suspects who resist arrest. This lack of respect for the due process rights of all Filipinos is appalling,” the commissioner added.

He then urged the government of to protect human rights defenders, voicing concern over the case of Philippine Senator Leila De Lima, who has been detained since February over her alleged involvement in a drug trade at the New Bilibid Prison when she was the justice secretary.

De Lima, who is among the fiercest critics of the Duterte administration, has decried her case as political persecution.

“Many human rights defenders who are the honor of their country face a growing number of death threats, and I call on the government to ensure they are accorded full protection and the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without reprisals,” Al Hussein said.

He also expressed shock over Duterte’s threat to “bomb schools for indigenous children in the

southern Philippines.”

Last July, Duterte threatened to bomb Lumad-run community schools for allegedly teaching students to rebel against the government.

No factual basis In a statement, Malacañang refuted the UN official’s criticism against Duterte.

“We are deeply concerned with the UNHCR Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein’s sweeping statements during the UNHR Council’s 36th session, citing instances bereft of factual basis,” Philippine Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said.

Abella said Al Hussein’s claims run counter to what Duterte has ordered, stressing that Duterte “has categorically and repeatedly said that there is no shoot-to-kill order.”

He further noted that “all drug killings are subject to investigations.”

Malacañang maintained that the objective of the anti-illegal drugs campaign is “to preserve the lives of the Filipino people, to prevent the destruction of Filipino families, and to protect the Philippines from becoming a narco-state.”

Regarding the case of De Lima, Abella clarified that the incarceration of the senator is due to “criminal, not political, issues.”

He also took note that it is a court independent from the executive which ordered her arrest for drug trafficking charges.

“On the issue of human rights workers who are part of the drug trade or human rights workers who obstruct justice, the President is referring to human rights activists who aid or abet acts of violence during legitimate police operations where authorities have the right of self-defense,” Abella added.

Malacañang, likewise, said that the UN official “miss the context” of Duterte’s remarks concerning the Lumad schools.

Abella then told the commissioner to “focus on the Duterte administration’s efforts to educate the indigenous people (IP).”

“At present, there are 2,929,456 IP learners in the public school system. For next year, the IP education program will receive P130.43M, which is largely for capacity building, program support fund for implementation of IP education at the regional and division level,” he said. n

age than what was anticipated. So far, the Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Honorary Consulate in Florida has not received any report of Filipino casualty resulting from Irma’s crossing across the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean and the U.S. third largest state.

Downgraded to a tropical storm, Irma is making its way to Alabama after passing directly over the coast of southern Georgia. The latest projections indicate that Irma will weaken to the point of being a tropical depression by tomorrow, Tuesday, September 12. However, it is still expected to bring rains to central Georgia, eastern Alabama and southern South Carolina.

The Philippine Embassy reiterates its advice to the Filipinos in the southeastern part of the United States to exercise extra precautions, heed the orders and warnings of state and local authorities, and monitor weather bulletins for updates.

Those who want to share or find information about the condition of their family members and friends in the abovementioned places may reach the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. through the following contact information: • Emergency hotline: +1 (202) 368 2767 • Email addresses: consular@ phembassy-us.org / atn@phembassy-us.org • Facebook: www.facebook. com/philippinesusa • Twitter: @philippinesusa n

“In California, we don’t just support and value them — we fight for them. And it’s important that we get this right,” said Becerra. “We will not permit Donald Trump to destroy the lives of young immigrants who make California and our country strong.”

Key points from the lawsuit state that the decision to end DACA violates federal laws, and may be detrimental to the economy.

In the lawsuit, Becerra argues that the termination of the program violates the Fifth Amendment due process clause by “substantially altering DHS’s prior assurances regarding the use of information contained in DACA applications.” A major concern for recipients was of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) access to their personal information which they feared could be used for deportation.

A recent memo by the Trump administration titled “Talking Points - DACA Rescissions” fueled concerns by revealing the DHS’s urge for DACA recipients to “use the time remaining on their work authorizations to prepare for and arrange their departure from the United States.”

This came shortly after Trump posted a tweet telling recipients not to worry, and after the DHS said that DACA participant information would not be “proactively provided” to other law enforcement entities like the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or Customs and Bor-

der Protection (CBP), unless a threat to public safety or national security. The policy may be rescinded or modified at any time without notice, the DHS added.

Becerra also argues in the suit that the Trump administration violated two federal laws, the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), and the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA). The APA requires agencies to go through a certain procedure, including a “notice and comment” process, before making a decision. In violation of the RFA, the Justice Department failed to give a sufficient assessment of how the decision would affect businesses and municipalities.

Becerra signaled his intent to sue before, in a statement following the decision to end DACA. “California is taking action because one in four DACA grantees live in our state,” he said. “I will do everything I can to fight for them.”

Other lawsuits have been made against the Trump administration as well. On Friday, University of California President Janet Napolitano filed a lawsuit and said in a Los Angeles Times Op-Ed, “I’ve seen the exceptional contributions Dreamers are making to the nation. They represent the very best of our country.” Napolitano served as secretary of the DHS under Obama, and signed the directive that created DACA. Last Wednesday, Sept. 6, a coalition of 15 states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit against the administration. New York Attorney General Eric Sch-

neiderman called the decision “cruel, shortsighted, inhumane, and potentially devastating to hundreds and thousands of immigrants and millions of people who work with, study with, love, and care for them.” $30 million planned for DACA recipients Outside of the lawsuit, California Governor Jerry Brown and other state legislative leaders have agreed to designate $30 million to assist DACA recipients through financial aid and legal services.

“We will not let one man with xenophobic tendencies undercut years of progress we have made in California to integrate these young adults into our society and economy,” said California Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de León. “California is their home and they are our future.”

Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon said, “The new funding for DACA services we are adding to the budget will provide answers and help young Californians stay in the only country they’ve ever known. Donald Trump may love chaos. These kids don’t deserve it.”

Of the $30 million, $20 million will to go to legal services under the One California program, and $10 million will be for California public colleges — $7 million for California Community College students, $2 million for California State University students via the Dream Loan Program, and $1 million for University of California students also via the Dream Loan Program. (Rae Ann Varona / AJPress)

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Gov. Brown signs bill Legislation pushed to roll back DL suspensions to help psychologists prevent suicide SACRAMENTO – On Friday, September 1, day one of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Governor Brown signed into law Assembly Bill 89 (Levine), which was co-sponsored by the California Board of Psychology.

The bill takes effect January 1, 2020, and requires all licensed psychologists to receive education and training in suicide risk assessment and intervention.

Psychologists will need to complete a onetime, minimum of six hours of coursework or supervised applied experience.

In its sponsorship letter supporting the bill, the board stated, “Suicide is a critical public health issue in the State of California, where on average, one person dies of suicide every two hours and twice as many people die of suicide than by homicide.”

The board also cited statis-

tics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that suicide is the third leading cause of death for Californians ages 15 to 34, and the tenth leading cause of death for Californians of all ages.

With the passage of this bill, all psychologists will be exposed to a baseline of basic education and training regarding the identification and assistance required for a patient or client with suicidal ideation. Although psychologists are among the best trained clinicians in addressing suicidality, the board wants to ensure that all psychologists have received a minimum of basic training.

To find a licensed psychologist in your area or to check the license of your current psychologist, visit the website of the California State Board of Psychology psychology. ca.gov. n

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys) recently introduced a legislation to roll back driver’s license suspensions for Californians who have been unable to pay their traffic fines and fees.

SB 237 would apply to about 200,000 Californians who did not benefit from Traffic Amnesty Program that ended this spring and who had their licenses suspended before Gov. Jerry Brown changed the law to prevent the practice in a trailer bill attached to the 2017-18 state budget.

“The governor and the Legislature have changed the law, because everyone understands suspending a person’s driver’s license simply because he or she can’t pay the fine for a minor traffic violation is ridiculously harsh and unfair,” Hertzberg said. “We

have ended this injustice moving forward and we should end it retroactively, too.”

The new law took effect June 27 when the Legislature passed the budget trailer bill. In his budget proposal, Brown noted that there didn’t appear to be a connection between suspending people’s driver’s licenses and collecting their fines yet the suspension could have serious negative consequences, such as preventing people from getting to work or taking their kids to school.

The legislation comes after the Judicial Council released a report last week showing the tremendous success of California’s Traffic Amnesty Program.

In 2015, Hertzberg authored SB 405, which, along with a related budget measure from Brown, es-

tablished the program for traffic offenses prior to 2013.

From Oct. 1, 2015 through April 3 of this year, Californians with longstanding unpaid traffic fines or fees could talk to a judge to lower the fine and lift the suspensions on their driver’s licenses if they signed up for a payment plan.

The Judicial Council report said that more than 255,000 Californians had their debts reduced, more than 246,000 received their driver’s licenses back and the court system netted $31.5 million in revenue.

“Amnesty proved the naysayers wrong and showed that many Californians weren’t paying their traffic fines and fees simply because they didn’t have the money to do it, not to thumb their noses at the law,” Hertzberg said. “Am-

SACRAMENTO, California — A local resident who worked as a pilot was convicted September 5 in U.S. District Court here of traveling to the Philippines to engage in sex with minors and to buy children for sex and pornog-

raphy.

Michael Carey Clemans, 57, also pleaded guilty on three additional charges of conspiracy to produce child pornography and making and receiving child pornography.

Evidence showed that Clemans conspired with a woman in the Philippines to make child pornography while he was living in Bangkok, Thailand and working as an airline pilot.

Clemans returned to his Sacramento residence in April 2015 and maintained online contact with the Filipino woman. Clemans hatched strategies to acquire female children that he could rape.

Clemans told the Filipino woman to look for orphans, victims of typhoons and other vulnerable

children and gave her $6,000 to buy photographic equipment and find private places to take sexually explicit photos of the children who were as young as seven.

He also instructed the Filipina how to photograph the naked children so he could choose which ones he would come to the Philippines to rape, especially very young virgins.

Clemans also traveled from the United States to Manila in November 2013, to have sex with minors, including an 11-year-old girl. He often paid a co-conspirator to obtain temporary custody of Filipino children to make child pornography for him.

Sentencing by U.S. District Judge John A. Mendez is set for December 12, 2017. Clemans is facing a mandatory minimum

nesty had a huge positive impact on the lives of a quarter million Californians and on the court system, which netted revenue it almost certainly never would have seen without this program.”

SB 237 is sponsored by a coalition of social justice groups that includes the Western Center on Law and Poverty, American Civil Liberties Union of California and East Bay Community Law Center.

“These 200,000 Californians are on a desert island, and it’s not fair,” said Michael Herald, legislative advocate for the Western Center on Law and Poverty.

“They weren’t helped by the Traffic Amnesty Program and they had their licenses suspended before the law was changed. We need to change the law to end this injustice for everybody.” n

Sacramento pilot convicted of traveling to PH to rape kids

Michael Carey Clemans

sentence of 30 years in prison for the “buying children” charge, a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.

(Inquirer.net)

Sereno impeachment complaint...

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which was endorsed by 25 lawmakers. Gadon accused Sereno of culpable violation of the Constitution, corruption, other high crimes and betrayal of public trust.

During the hearing, 30 panel members voted for the motions deeming Gadon’s complaint to be sufficient in form and substance.

COOP-NATCO party-list Representative Anthony Bravo, who moved to find the complaint sufficient in form, cited the need for Congress to look into the allegations that may prove her unfit for her position.

“Same as the charges against court personnel must be acted on by the Supreme Court, so the charges against the Chief Magistrate must be heard by the institution that can hold the Chief Justice accountable – the Congress,” Bravo said.

Lawmakers who voted against the complaint, however, argued that Gadon did not have “personal knowledge” because his allegations were based on newspaper clippings.

Among the members who voted against the motions were Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Zarate, Quezon City Representative Kit Belmonte, Dinagat Islands Representative Kaka Bag-ao and Siquijor Representative Ramon Rocamora.

“If we based on how we treated the (Rep. Gary Alejano) complaint, if these are based on newspaper

reports then I think these are clearly hearsay, and we should not, sabi nga natin (as we said) this proceeding should not be used as a fishing expedition proceeding,” Zarate said.

Supporting Zarate’s opinion, Bag-ao added, “Secondary sources will not constitute personal knowledge and are considered hearsay.”

But Oriental Mindoro 2nd District Representative Reynaldo Umali, chairman of the committee, disagreed, saying that it is supported by authentic documents released by the Supreme Court on August 15 “In this particular case, we have a private complainant in the person of Attorney Gadon who did his homework. While he may not have personal knowledge, he appended to his complaint authentic records and that is what is lacking in the Alejano complaint,” Umali said.

Among the grounds in Gadon’s impeachment rap include Sereno’s “whimsical” and “excessive” purchase of a Toyota Land Cruiser amounting to P5.1 million, and misuse of judiciary funds when attending local and foreign conferences.

He also accused Sereno of failing to be truthful in declaring her statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN), as well as obstructing justice when she ordered Muntinlupa judges to not to issue arrest warrants against Senator Leila De Lima.

A second impeachment com-

PH senators vow to fight...

PAGE A2 t

step down if they wanted a higher budget for the agency.

‘A display of vindictiveness’ For its part, the CHR described the House decision as a “display of vindictiveness.”

“Despite this defeat in the House, we look forward to defending our budget in the Senate,” Gascon said.

“We hope that reason, necessity, and rational minds will prevail both in the Senate and in the bicameral committee.”

Commissioner Leah Armamento said the miniscule budget set aside for the CHR will greatly affect the agency’s operations—including the funding of its witness protection program and free legal assistance to human rights victims.

“Ganun ba kahalaga ang human rights ng tao para sa ating gobyerno ngayon, yung P1000 na yun? Di ba parang nakakainsulto sa taong bayan yun? (Is human rights worth

this much to our government? That P1,000? Isn’t that an insult.)” she told ABS-CBN News Armamento also pointed out that Gascon’s resignation would create a “precedent that we can be bullied and then as an independent body, we will now cater to the whims of a political party.”

“Hindi naman kami kalaban ng gobyerno (We are not an enemy of the government),” she further noted. “We are the conscience of the people so we are here to provide limitations to the immense powers of the state.”

In a separate statement, CHR reminded that Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano promised a higher budget of the agency for 2018 during the third cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) by the United Nations (UN) body last May. “Included was a promise to continually augment the CHR’s budget, citing last year’s increase from P439

plaint against Sereno was also filed

by Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) founding chairman Dante Jimenez and Vanguard of the Philippine Constitution Inc. president lawyer Eligio Mallari.

It was endorsed by 16 House members.

The House panel, however, did not give the same verdict to the second impeachment complaint.

It was deemed insufficient in form by a vote of a vote of 5-28.

Following the committee’s decision, Sereno’s camp asked Congress to “affirm their commitment to democracy over partisan or parochial interests.”

Sereno’s spokesperson, Atty.

Carlo L. Cruz, maintained that “none of the allegations” against the chief justice “rises to an impeachable offense.”

“We remain hopeful that our Congress will decide based on the merits of the case, and affirm their commitment to our democracy over partisan or parochial interests.

In the meantime, the Chief Justice continues to discharge her duties with fairness, integrity and humility,” Cruz said in a statement.

He further remarked that the impeachment complaint is likely “designed to maximize the political spectacle, with the goal of eroding her credibility through innuendo and malicious allegations.”

“This is detrimental to the independence of the judiciary upon whom all citizens rely to defend their rights and to check any abuse,” Cruz added.

million to P724 million, as a way to show that this administration supports human rights programs and initiatives,”CHR said in a Facebook post.

Disrespect, threat to Filipinos Vice President Leni Robredo also slammed the House move, saying it threatens democracy and disrespects the Constitution and human rights of Filipinos.

“Tila pagbuwag sa CHR ang magiging epekto ng desisyong ito. (The effect of this decision is similar to demolishing the CHR.),” Robredo remarked.

Citing the “widespread violence and killings” under Duterte’s drug war, she said the budget cut was bothersome as it “cripples the main agency tasked to protect human rights.”

“Nagbabadya ito ng kawalan ng respeto sa ating Saligang Batas at sa karapatang pantao -- parehong banta sa demokrasya (This signals a lack of respect for the Constitution and human rights--both threats to the democracy.)” she added.

ASEAN INFORMATION MINISTERS TACKLE FAKE NEWS. Secretary Martin Andanar of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), the current chair of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI), recently led a roundtable discussion with the Information Ministers of the ten-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Joining Andanar in the Roundtable Discussion were the Information Ministers from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Malacañang photo

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 15-21 2017

DATELINE PHILIPPINES

Trillanes: I trust in the ‘wisdom, good judgement’ of my colleagues

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

MANILA - Senator Antonio Trillanes IV maintained that he has not done anything unparliamentary during the recent Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearings, saying that he trusts in the “wisdom and good judgment” of his colleagues who will decide on the ethics complaint filed against him.

In a radio interview, Trillanes insisted that it was Senator Richard Gordon who does not know which actions were considered parliamentary and which were not.

Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, has filed an ethics case against Trillanes over the latter’s alleged “repeated display of unparliamentary conduct and disorderly behavior.”

This was after Trillanes called Gordon’s panel “committee de absuwelto” (committee of exoneration) and accused the latter of “lawyering” for President Rodrigo Duterte and his family during a hearing on August 31 into the smuggling of P6.4 billion shabu from China.

Trillanes’ actions, according to Gordon, were “causing damage to the Senate and to the people.”

But Trillanes insisted that he “did not do anything unparliamentary” during that hearing.

Minority senators backs call for Aguirre resignation

by DANA

SIOSON AJPress

FAKED? Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV shows evidence his alleged offshore bank accounts were nonexistent.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Rene Dilan

“Even in the previous hearings, I am very conscious on what is parliamentary and what is not,” Trillanes told DZBB on Sunday, September 10.

“I trust in the wisdom and good judgment of my fellow senators so my fate is in their hands,” he added.

On Monday, September 11, the Senate Committee on Ethics found Gordon’s complaint against Trillanes sufficient in form and substance.

“The complaint is sufficient form and substance except for issue number 5. With no objection, motion is approved,” said Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III,

who is also the ethics committee chairman.

Sotto said Trillanes has 10 working days to submit a counter-affidavit.

Earlier, Trillanes expressed intention to file back an ethics complaint against Gordon.

He accused Gordon of violating the Senate rules for refusing “the right of the minority to be heard,” as well as committing dishonesty for insisting that the phrase “committee de absuwelto” was made on the record.

Likewise, he threatened to expose the Gordon’s supposed “corrupt acts” as chairman of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). ■

MANILA - The Senate Minority bloc on Tuesday, September 12 backed Senator Risa Hontiveros’ call for Philippine Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II to resign after he was “caught red-handed plotting” against her.

Hontiveros, also a member of the Senate minority, earlier released a photo showing Aguirre urging a certain “Cong. Jing” in a text message to expedite a case against her.

“We reiterate our call for Vitaliano Aguirre to resign from his post as Secretary of Justice.

This recent development once more highlights his unethical actions as a public official,” the Minority bloc said in a statement.

Other Senate minority bloc members include Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV of Nacionalista Party (NP); and Senators Franklin Drilon, Francis Pangilinan, Benigno Paulo “Bam” Aquino IV, and Leila De Lima who were all members of the Liberal Party (LP).

Earlier this week, Hontiveros released a photo of Aguirre which was “inadvertently” taken by a photojournalist during

PH-China economic ties ‘improving’ despite sea row

by CATHERIN

S. VALENTE ManilaTimes.net

RELATIONS between China and the Philippines are “improving,” an official of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said, as the two countries firm up strategies to boost cooperation.

Trade Undersecretary Nora Terrado cited efforts to hold bilateral discussions to tackle the sociopolitical and economic relationship between China and the Philippines.

“I think that relationships, political, trade, economic is improving. The reason why I say that is because bilateral discus-

sion has been ongoing,” Terrado told reporters at the sidelines of the 14th China-Asean Expo and China-Asean Business and Investment Summit.

Terrado said “very high-level” discussions between China and the Philippines regarding longterm projects were ongoing.

“I have to say though that when we visited last time in China with President Duterte, there have been several letters of intent that have been signed… We are inviting several countries including China to partner with the Philippines in our infrastructure development,” Terrado said.

She noted that the country’s

goal was to increase infrastructure spending from less than 3 percent of gross domestic product to 7 percent.

“That would be at least $168 billion of investment that will be spent in the Philippines from this year to 2022. So that’s a lot of infrastructure work and therefore several discussions are ongoing,” she added.

The focus on economic ties with China is part of the foreign policy direction of the Duterte administration, which is pursuing a “two-track” system of dialogue with Beijing, whose actions in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) had prompted the previ-

A5

ous Aquino administration to bring it to an international arbitration court.

Philippines-China relations were strained by Manila’s decision in 2013 to seek international arbitration on the dispute, which it won. China has refused to recognize the ruling as well as any bilateral negotiations premised on the Philippine victory.

Expo opens The 14th China-Asean Expo and the 14th China-Asean Business and Investment Summit opened here in Nanning, the capital city of China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Tuesday, Sept. 12 with the participation of

a Senate probe into the death of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos last September 5.

In a photo, the Justice secretary can be seen texting “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’s 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.)”

The minority senators said Aguirre’s actions “signify a lack of competence for a man who holds the highest office on justice” and “clearly violate the norms of conduct for public officials under the law.”

“The Filipinos deserve better than a Cabinet official who resorts to spreading lies, sowing intrigue and to name-calling.

We need a Secretary of Justice who will uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, and justice. Secretary Aguirre clearly does not fulfill these requirements,” they added.

The LP senators previously called on Aguirre to resign over his “repeated issuances of erroneous claims,” particularly when he claimed that they attempted to bribe the parents of Delos Santos.

“Last August 30, we called

for his resignation due to his propensity for spreading fake information on those he tagged as ‘dilawan’ — for which he had to publicly apologize more than once,” the minority senators recalled.

They went on to say, “Now, he has been caught red-handed plotting against a sitting Senator during a hearing where he is supposed to be paying his utmost attention.”

In turn, a sad and enraged Aguirre said he is studying the possibility of filing a case against Hontiveros and the photographer who took the picture.

Cited Article III Section 3(1) of the 1987 Constitution, the justice secretary stressed that text messages are “private communications” and “any unauthorized intrusion into such exchanges is illegal and betrays the Constitution.”

“I am saddened, enraged, and more importantly, afraid of how our rights to the privacy of our communication can easily be disregarded and trampled upon…and the people who subsequently trumpeted it, did so in the very hallowed halls of the Senate itself,” the justice secretary said.

He described the released of his controversial photo as a “shameless violation of a citizen’s right to the privacy of communications.”

Aguirre went on to say, “I am saddened by the thought that while I gave my time, cooperation and humble efforts to the Senate during the hearing, unknown to me, I will be victimized and my rights disregarded and my privacy intruded upon.” ■

over 2,700 businesses.

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, the “country of honor” in this year’s event, and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Chairman Chen Wu co-chaired the opening ceremony at Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center.

Themed “Building the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road,

promoting regional economic integration through tourism,” this year’s expo has a total area of 124,000 square meters and 6,600 booths.

First held in Nanning in 2004 on China’s initiative, the exhibition aims to foster friendship and cooperation between China and the Asean. The expo will run until September 17.

A6

SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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

OPINION

Impeachment, again

FEATURES

WILL Philippine Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno share the same fate as her predecessor? Sereno succeeded the late Renato Corona, the first Filipino magistrate to be impeached and convicted.

Beginning this week, the House of Representatives Committee on Justice will tackle impeachment complaints again Sereno. The committee will review whether the complaints are sufficient in form and substance.

Sereno is accused of alleged culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of public trust, and corruption for purportedly bypassing the Supreme Court en banc in creating new offices, her “excessive” purchase of a P5.1-million sports utility vehicle, and her alleged failure to declare “exorbitant lawyer’s fees” allegedly amounting to $745,000 or P37 million.

Under the Constitution, the House acts as the prosecuting panel while the Senate acts as an impeachment court. If at least one-third of all the House members vote to endorse the impeachment, a trial will proceed in the Senate, which will sit as an impeachment court.

The Corona trial was the first of its kind to be concluded in Philippine history. He was the third Filipino official to be impeached by Congress after martial law. The first was former President Joseph Estrada, who was deposed while still under trial by the Senate. The second was former Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez, who resigned days before her Senate trial.

In December 2011, members of the House of Representatives moved swiftly to impeach then Chief Justice Corona for alleged betrayal of public

trust, violation of the Constitution, and graft and corruption.

In May 2012, 20 senators declared Corona guilty of betraying public trust and committing a culpable violation of the Constitution, instantly removing him from his post and disqualified him from holding any public position.

Criminal charges including graft and corruption, and multiple counts of tax evasion cases before the Sandiganbayan and the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) were then filed against the former chief justice.

However, these charges were extinguished when the defendant succumbed to cardiac arrest last April 29, 2016. Corona died at the age of 67.

“It does not affect me at all,” Chief Justice Sereno said when asked about the two impeachment complaints lodged against her.

Sereno maintained that she has been living a life of modesty.

“I have been prudent in use of the court’s resources at the expenses for judicial reform. My travels, my security requirements are all regular and above board. Public documents and records will speak for itself and I have not objected in the public release of the same,” Sereno said in August during the Ulat sa Hudikatura forum held in Cebu.

“I have done nothing wrong. Nothing can be proven against me that will show that the Chief Justice has betrayed her oath of office. I have served the country with all faith and diligence. I will never

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

waver from that pledge,” she stressed.

This debacle portrays many forms of denigration that continuous to taint the country’s political and constitutional process. No matter which side who is on, the outcome of the trial will be difficult to predict and vagaries in the procedures will be inevitable. The seriousness of this challenge affects both parties involved, and every Filipino as it slowly but surely traces impacts on the indepen-

dence of the Philippine judiciary.

Rendering justice will strengthen the system.

It will be present a strong statement in balancing all the interests of the Constitution, the law, public welfare, and due process in this impeachment trial. Whichever camp wins, the outcome will be a guiding principle saving the country from the usurpation of the Filipinos’ celebrated democracy.

(AJPress)

Hurricanes Harvey and Irma send wake-up call to climate change deniers like Trump, EPA chief Scott Pruitt & Florida Gov. Rick Scott OUR hearts go out to people and communi- The Fil-Am ties in Texas, Florida, and other states in the Perspective southeast of the United States following the devastation left by Hurricanes Harvey and GEL SANTOS-RELOS Irma.

As of press time, at least 60 deaths have been caused

by Hurricane Harvey, the storm that dumped several feet of rain in southeast Texas in a matter of days. At least seven people in the United States have been killed as a result of Hurricane Irma, in addition to the 37 killed in the Caribbean, including 10 in Cuba.

These back-to-back natural calamities should now serve as a wake-up call to people, especially government offi-

cials like U.S. President Donald Trump, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt, and Florida Gov. Rick Scott, who continue to deny how we are now paying back to the abuses we have increasingly been committing against Mother Nature. We have now been reaping what we have been sowing through the effects of climate change and extreme temperatures.

Since Trump took office in January, he has already rolled back some of the environmental protection laws put in place under his predecessor, Barack Obama, and announced his intention to withdraw from the Paris Climate

THE yellows still don’t get it.

The more they maneuver, the more they sink deeper into a political quicksand.

And it looks like despite their enormous intellectual arsenal firmly grounded in the top universities of the country where they have a lot of academic enablers, they fail to spin a narrative that is based on reality, and not just on the mythologies of hate that they thought would last forever since 1986.

Well, nothing lasts forever, more so if what you have is just based on socially constructed illusions that subsist on hate, hoping that the people will forever not have the resources to construct their own alternative truths.

The tragedy of the yellows is that their politics is one of hate, and is not based on any ideological grounding that defines the ideal in a positive way. It doesn’t even have to be a utopian paradise, but simply a statement of an aspiration for the Filipino people.

Their slogans tell it all. Never again. Block Marcos. Stop the killings.

But they never clearly articulate towards what end, one that is concrete and palpable, and not just empty rhetoric.

And when they prescribe a political action, they betray a sense of messianic arrogance that extols

we can take care of Mother Nature.

As BBC News reported, “Pope Francis has warned history will judge world leaders who do not act as he blasted climate change skeptics in the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Harvey.”

Pope Francis is concerned that the impact of climate change will be hardest on the people of the world’s poorest countries, calling on the moral responsibility of everybody, especially those in positions of power to do something about this problem.

“All of us have a responsibility. All of us. Some small, some big. A moral responsibility, to accept opinions, or make decisions. I think it is not something to joke about,” the Pope said.

“If we don’t go back we will go down,” he warned reporters on Monday, Sept. 11. “That is true. You can see

the effects of climate change with your own eyes and scientists tell us clearly the way forward.

Pope Francis quoted a phrase from the Old Testament: “Man is stupid, a stubborn, blind man.”

“Those who deny it (climate change) should go to the scientists and ask them,” the Pope said. “They are very clear, very precise.”

Why do people, especially President Trump, continue to deny the truth about climate change? What is the true underlying motivation behind this? *** 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

The yellows are in a political quicksand

Commentary

ANTONIO CONTRERAS

Accord.

I do not understand how despite proof after proof and hard evidence presented by science, there is still a debate about climate change. This just impedes how we all work together to address this problem that affects our planet and the future of living things in the world.

Even Pope Francis — who according to the Official Vatican Network, studied Chemical Technology and worked as a chemical technician before he chose the priesthood — has been weighing in on this issue, something that we have yet to see being proactively done by other religious leaders who seem to have challenges in acknowledging how faith and science are not diametrically apart from each other. The fact is: God has given man intelligence far greater than any other living things on the planet so

their virtues by demeaning those of others. They infantilize the people by treating us as wards to be rescued from evil, or educated because we are ignorant, or converted and saved because we are lost.

Maria Ressa wanted to retake the Internet that she thinks is being polluted by ordinary netizens.

Risa Hontiveros audaciously announced that they are out to take back democracy that was stolen, as if they own its franchise.

Marites Vitug exhorted public intellectuals of the yellow kind to civilize the national conversation.

The yellow narrative is deeply mired in victimization, effectively robbing citizens of their human agency. Their narratives explode in anger about victims of martial law, human rights abuses and maldevelopment, but without a blueprint of an alternative. In fact, they may not be interested in an alternative. After all, the lifeblood of their narratives is about the victims and their victimization, and not about solutions and moving forward.

Thus, their politics is all about cultivating the pain and the hatred to keep their narratives relevant.

This is the reason why they would like that people should never forget, even if it means not being able to move forward because moving forward would deny their political enablers the stories that they would tell during political rallies. Their placards would be bereft of the convenient slogans that they have long painted. They have to develop new scripts for

their political performances.

And the yellow politicians will have to devise new strategies, and begin to think that their role is not to just expose corruption, but to offer viable political alternatives in the form of public policy.

But it seems that they are so used to the negative, naysaying, investigating type of politics epitomized by Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th that the real meaning of public policy is lost in their minds.

It is one thing for yellow bloggers who insist that they are objective journos or of theater artists acting out their political biases to be confused about what public policy entails. But when a senator like Risa Hontiveros insists that public policy is simply what the President says, then the political opposition really has a problem. No wonder Hontiveros and her cohorts are trying so hard to corrupt well-established political science concepts and paint the President as a tyrant and a fascist. This is the only way they can justify their notion that whatever the President says now automatically becomes state policy.

The yellows have demonized the Marcoses, and if they have their way they would keep on doing this precisely because it keeps their narratives afloat.

The yellows would like to paint the Marcoses as evil, yet a closer perusal of the discursive narratives and practices of the Marcos children, particularly in the acts and speeches of Bongbong and Imee Marcos, what one can dis-

Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, Risa Hontiveros and Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV are mong the six senators who comprise the senate minority bloc.

Philstar.com photo

cern is a well-defined focus on ideals, visions and concrete alternatives on how to move forward.

The yellows treat President Duterte as the devil incarnate, as the alleged architect of statesanctioned murder even of children. Yet, a closer examination of the President’s actions reveal a person who, while flawed, is sincerely working to deliver to people concrete relief from their poverty and fears.

The Marcoses and President Duterte offer the people a vision and a way to learn from the lessons of history, pick up the pieces and imagine the nation as we move forward.

On the other hand, the yellows continue to paint a narrative

of hate and victimization, using memes, placards and political theatrics without offering concrete political programs. The yellow political opposition and their enablers in media, the arts, civil society and academe simply want the people to never forget Martial Law, stop the killings and block Marcos, even as they would like to retake the Internet, take back democracy and civilize the national conversation because the people do not know better.

In 1986, they had the monopoly of the manufacturing of narratives. Aided by their enablers who fell victim to the excesses of martial law, they freely sequestered not only the wealth of Marcos and his cronies, but also

the processes of storytelling and myth-making.

But times have changed. The age of social media has enabled the emergence of counter-narratives that challenge this onesided myth-making. What the yellows derisively call as historical revisionism, others would call as simply making efforts to make our narratives honest, balanced and fair. And if the yellows keep on infantilizing and patronizing the people with whom they disagree as ignorant, or worse, complicit, they will certainly keep on losing and alienating these people. They would end up sinking further in the political quicksand where they are now.

(ManilaTimes.net)

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

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UAAP OPENING. The Far Eastern University’s (FEU) Pep Squad performs during the opening ceremonies of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines’ (UAAP) 80th season at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

ManilaTimes.net photo by Russell Palma

Bishops issue strongest statement vs Duterte’s drug war ‘In the name of God, stop the killings!’

by Audrey

MorAllo Philstar.com

MANILA — Local Catholic bishops issued on Tuesday, Sept.

12, their strongest statement to date against President Rodrigo Duterte.

The bishops slammed and urged for a stop to the continuing killing of drug suspects, especially teenagers, in a statement released

by Socrates Villegas, the archbishop of Lingayen-Dagupan and the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines.

This comes weeks after a string of suspected police killings of teenagers which jolted the nation.

The bishops were “appalled” by the “remorseless” killings of suspected drug criminals including young suspects.

“In the name of God, stop the killings! May the justice of God come upon those responsible for the killings!” Villegas said. “For the good of the country, stop the killings! The toll of ‘murders under investigation’ must stop now.”

The statement condemning the violence that attends the brutal war on drugs is sure to anger the irascible Duterte, who in the past minced no words to blast bishops.

The killings in the wake of a campaign that has shown no signs of let-up have impelled the bishops

to call for the stop of the deaths and violence and justice for the victims.

The bishops, however, are careful to emphasize that it is not meant to offend anyone especially the president whose mouth froths with invectives when criticized.

“We are angry at none but the indifference amongst us,” he said.

Last month, the spate of killings of three teenagers spawned a level of outrage never before seen during the presidency of Duterte, who still remains massively popular among Filipinos.

The killings of Kian Loyd Delos Santos, 17, Carl Arnaiz, 19 and Reynaldo De Guzman, 14, all occurred within days of one another and shocked a nation that generally acquiesced to the brutality of the government’s anti-narcotics campaign.

Villegas said of them: “They were young boys, enjoying life, loving sons of parents who doted on them. Now an entire nation knows them by name because their lives have been snuffed out so cruelly, their dreams and aspirations forever consigned to the sad realm of ‘what could have been but never will be.’”

The Philippines must be angry for its guilt for its silence, inaction, diffidence and hesitation over the killings, according the CBCP

president, as he urged its leaders to start the healing of the “bleeding nation.”

“The healing must begin. Malasakit must be restored. Pakikiramay must be active. Pakikipag kapwa taomust be gained back.

The rule of law must prevail,” Villegas said.

Villegas also chided Christians especially Catholics for being quiet in the face of the “shocking attacks against human life,” saying they could not be faithful members of the Church by being mum on the deaths.

He said, “The Church must either be at the forefront of the intense and fervent struggle against a culture of death or the Church betrays Christ.”

This is not the first time that the bishops have spoken against the killings.

Just recently, Luis Antonio Tagle, the cardinal of Manila, and Villegas condemned the violence and appealed to the conscience of Catholic Filipinos, who comprise more than 80 percent of the population.

Criticisms like this from the Catholic Church are something that Duterte does not relish.

He blasted priests in the past for their inaction on the country’s drug problem and for their supposed “hypocrisy.”

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SeptembeR 15-21 2017

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september 15-21, 2017 • NOrCAL AsIAN JOUrNAL

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BUSINESSJ& COMMUNITY OURNAL

Is DACA truly gone? What now?

AS we all know, President Donald Trump has announced that he will end the Deferred Action for Child Arrivals (commonly known as “DACA”) program in six-months. He has told Congress that he wants them to enact and send him legislation that will address the immigration status of those currently in the DACA program. If Congress does decide to act, this will give them an opportunity to address the immigration issues of both the DACA recipients, their parents and others similarly situated.

Within the past few days, President Trump reached out to the leaders of the Democratic party to resolve (albeit temporarily) the looming budget and debt-ceiling concerns. This action may empower the moderate Republicans and Democrats to work together toward a reasonable and fair resolution to the problem of the Dreamers and their families.

In the meantime, to review, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a Memo with some guidelines as to what will happen in the immediate future: • Previously issued EADs and DACA grants will remain valid for their full validity period.

• Pending (those already filed

by September 5, 2017) initial requests for DACA and related EADs will be adjudicated.

• Initial applications not filed by today will not be accepted after today.

• Pending DACA renewals will be adjudicated.

• Not-yet-filed DACA renewals will be accepted for filing until October 5, 2017.

• Renewals can only be filed for those whose DACA grant will expire between September 5, 2017 and March 5, 2018. No one knows how long the renewals will be granted for.

• No new DACA-based advance parole applications will be approved. All pending advance parole applications will be administratively closed and the filing fees will be refunded.

• Previously approved advance paroles will be generally honored though DHS retains the authority to deny admission and/

Your Immigration Solution NANCY MILLER or revoke or terminate parole where it deems appropriate.

Recipients of DACA have varied immigration histories and issues. Some previously had no contact with Department of Homeland Security or Immigration Court. Others were in the middle of removal proceedings which are now administratively closed (NOT terminated – just asleep).

Others have existing removal orders. As DACA comes to a close, the effect on each of these groups will be different. Even before DACA is completely ended, these different situations may impact how the recipients may be treated if they leave the U.S. on advance parole. DACA recipients and all other non-citizens should remember that advance parole does not guarantee that they will be permitted to re-enter the United States. Prior misrepresentations, criminal convictions, or even arrests may affect the reception they receive from CBP at the border.

For this reason, anyone with potential problems should always consult an experienced immigration attorney before they make plans to go out of the United States.

Many people did not apply for DACA because they believed they were not qualified due to prior criminal history and they did not want to bring themselves to the attention of DHS. However, had they consulted with an immigration lawyer who is knowledgeable in “crimmigration”, they might have discovered that they were a good candidate for postconviction relief. They might also have learned that changes in California law had a positive effect on their immigration situation. As DACA closes (or morphs into legislation), it is more important than ever to find out whether

those with past criminal indiscretions are eligible for some form of relief.

When/if Congress turns its attention to immigration, many different factions are likely to speak up. Those who wish to bring permanent relief to those who are out of status will be one voice.

Those who wish to dramatically change and restrict legal immigration will be another voice.

A final result may include compromises on both sides. Those compromises may include the elimination of some categories of family immigration. Brothers and sisters of United States citizens and married sons and daughters of United States citizens have long been considered to be on the “chopping block”.

United States citizens who have been considering filing petitions for family members in these categories should stop considering and actually file. If Congress votes to end these categories, the chance will be gone.

Because immigration (and criminal) law is constantly changing, those who were previously told that they have no hope should contact a knowledgeable and experienced immigration lawyer to find out if that is still true. What was not possible before may be possible now. Consult with a lawyer an immigration lawyer and find out. After all, President Trump reached out to the Democrats and they reached an agreement. Who knows what can happen next? *** Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza is one of the oldest, largest and most experienced immigration firms in the United States with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Manila. For more Information please call (800) 7958009 or visit www.rreeves.com.

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

(Advertising Supplement)

Foreign investments nearly triple in June

by LAWRENCE

AGCAOILI Philstar.com

THE net inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Philippines almost tripled in June, rising 183 percent to $674 million from $238 million a year ago, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reported Monday, September 11.

“In part, the increase in FDI inflows in June was largely due to the expansion in debt instruments or intercompany borrowings from foreign direct investors by their subsidiaries or affiliates in the Philippines,” the BSP said.

However, despite the sharp increase in June, the first half tally was still 14 percent lower at $3.6

billion than the year ago level of $4.18 billion.

Equity placements plunged 70.8 percent to $216.3 million in the first half from $1.61 billion in the same period last year while withdrawals almost doubled to $330 million from $166 million.

During the period, investments in debt instruments grew 29.2 percent to $3.04 billion from $2.35 billion while reinvestments of earnings climbed nine percent to $416 million from $382 million.

For June alone, equity placements surged 216.3 percent to $113 million from $36 million in June last year.

Equity infusion came mainly

from the US, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and India and were channeled to real estate; electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply; financial and insurance; manufacturing; and professional, scientific and technical activities.

However, withdrawals booked a bigger growth of 351.4 percent to $185 million in June from $41 million in the same month last year.

The BSP said non-residents’ investments in debt instruments or lending by parent firms abroad to their local affiliates in the Philippines to fund existing operations, and expansion surged 270.3 percent to $674 million from $182

u PAGE CJ2

More OFW households using remittances for investments – survey

by LAWRENCE

AGCAOILI Philstar.com

MORE households are investing the money sent home by Filipinos working abroad as global financial markets stabilized, results of a quarterly survey conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.

BSP officer-in-charge Diwa Guinigundo said the percentage of OFW households using remittances to invest as of the

third quarter of the year almost doubled to 8.5 percent from 4.4 percent in the second quarter.

Guinigundo pointed out the level of OFW households using remittances for investments was almost four times the 2.3 percent recorded in the first quarter of 2007 when the Consumer Expectation Survey (CES) was BSP officer-in-charge Diwa Guinigundo launched.

Investors are returning to the path taken by the US Federal financial markets with the clear- Reserve after two rate hikes uner picture on the normalization u PAGE CJ4

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Community Journal

SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

DACA abolished

The CTV Files Atty. Dennis ChuA, esq.

ON June 15, 2012, President Barack Obama unveiled a program known as DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.)

Under this program, the Obama Administration will stop deporting illegal immigrants who entered the country as children.

These individuals will also be allowed to get work permits to enable them to work and get a driver’s license. These individuals must file a request for deferred action with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Once the request is granted, they will be able to continue staying in the U.S. for a period of two years without threat of deportation. In order to qualify for this type of Deferred Action, the individual must: (1) be between the ages of 16 and 30 as of June 15, 2012; (2) have entered the U.S. while he/she was below 16 years of age; (3) be present in the U.S. for five years as of June 15, 2012 have maintained continu-

ous residence; (4) be currently in school, have graduated, have a GED, or have honorably discharged from the military; (5) not have been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or multiple minor misdemeanors.

This program has benefitted around 800,000 undocumented immigrants. However, the Trump Administration has recently announced that it will no longer be continuing this program.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a memo outlining how the phaseout of DACA will occur.

We are listing down the more important points of this memo: • No new applications will be accepted after September 5, 2017.

• Applications accepted by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will be processed as normal.

• Timely renewals of DACA expiring at any time up to March 5, 2018 will be adjudicated normally and result in a two-year extension if approved. The renewal application must however be received by the USCIS on or before October 5, 2017.

Any DACA expiring after March 5, 2018 will not be renewed.

• If your DACA expired and you failed to file for renewal prior to expiration, you are ineligible to file for DACA again.

• Any pending applications or new applications for travel document based on DACA will be denied. USCIS will refund filing fees for such advance parole applications. Previously granted advance parole will still be honored.

Despite the ending of this program, we are still hopeful that some form of legislation will be passed by Congress in the next six months. It is now more important than ever to contact your senators and encourage them to pass Senate Bill 1615, the Dream Act. *** Atty. Dennis E. Chua is a partner in The Law Firm of Chua Tinsay and Vega (CTV), a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and Manila. 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 inperson or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (415) 4958088; (619) 955-6277; (916)449-3923 Dchua@ctvattys.com.

(Advertising Supplement)

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette ADevA MAglAyA (Continued from last week...)

ANGELS were strong proactive characters when the story of humanity unfolded during biblical times. And while today, cynics, atheists and those on the dark side might argue that angels are figments of the human imagination, there are countless people who will brave the scorn of scoffers, fight back vehemently and attest to the very real presence of angels in their lives.

Trawl the internet and social media and read about how angels, though unseen in many instances, can be felt by many who believe in them. There are many instances when the presence and oftentimes the direct interventions of one’s personal guardian angel are a part of the twists and turns of the unraveling story of many people’s lives.

Many have written about their encounters with angels, documenting how their guardian angels are a real part of their lives guarding, guiding and protecting them from harm and on many occasions, even from death, because their time had not yet come.

I am sure many others have their own personal stories to tell about this unseen entity that can be ascribed to the presence of God himself – an ever-present help to aid us in navigating life on earth.

The common image of an angel is a beautiful heavenly being

Health@Heart PhiliP s. ChuA, MD, FACs, FPCs

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NOTHING to date can dissolve kidney stones, in spite of various marketed herbal substances or “natural and home” remedy potion or pills that claim to be able to do so. Don’t be fooled by false advertisements which are only after your hard earned money.

If you are prone to develop kidney stones, drink lemonade. It cannot dissolve kidney stone crystals, but it can slow down the development of stones. It is a delicious way to control your stone formation.

“When treating patients in our kidney stone center, we put everyone on lemonade therapy,” says Steven Y. Nakada, chair and professor of urology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.at a previous annual meeting of the American Urological Association in Atlanta.

Potassium citrate is usually prescribed for patients with kidney stones. Citrate is a kidney stone preventing substance, and lemonade (lemon juice) is full of citrate. The pill is more potent but the citrate in lemonade has been found to also slow down kidney stone formation. An alternative to “another pill” to take.

Liquid biopsy?

The term biopsy conventionally means cutting a piece of solid tissue for microscopic analysis to make a diagnosis. Liquid “biopsy” is a new promising procedure for detecting early-stage cancers by blood test, which replaces cutting a “solid tumor,” hence termed “liquid biopsy.”

The article about this future much less invasive way of finding cancer at its early stage, edited by William E. Chavey, MD, MS, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine and Science Translational Medicine.

The report says, “the technique allows assessment of sequence changes in circulating cell-free DNA.” Researchers used the method to look for alterations in nearly 60 cancer-related genes in blood samples from 44 healthy individuals and 200 patients with colorectal, breast, lung, or ovarian cancer. None of the healthy patients showed genetic changes related to solid cancers, while the test detected genetic alterations in 60–70 percent of those with stage I or II cancer. The researchers say the approach could “in principle” be implemented for cancer screening, pending validation studies. Early detection and intervention are likely to be the most effective means for reducing morbidity and mortality of human cancer. When it is validated and accepted as a standard diagnostic procedure, “Liquid Biopsy” could save hundreds of millions around the globe.

Your mouth and diabetes

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Angels among us

“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.”

— From Frank Capra’s film, “It’s a Wonderful Life” with piercing eyes, big white pair of wings and long cascading golden hair, robed in androgynous white gown and who is neither male nor female but to which we ascribe the word “he” just for convenience.

An angel, who is an eternal celestial being, is not subject to the constraints of gravity, time, space or language problems. Communication between protector and protectee is often wordless and automatic. Some are messengers and some bring punishment and death but each has a definite purpose, most of which are beneficial to humans.

Some claim to have seen their angels appearing differently from the common image we believe of winged beings. Some morph into human form to lend a hand, to protect from danger or avert disaster then disappear quickly.

They appear specially when the humans they are protecting find themselves in dire straits and need help. As one might imagine, angels are extremely busy considering the weakness of humans and their predilection to stray from the straight and narrow.

In Frank Capra’s classic Christmas film, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Clarence, a portly, bumbling character aspiring to become an angel must earn his wings by doing something good for a human being in desperate need and contemplating suicide. “Every time

a bell rings, an angel gets his wings,” is a memorable line in this classic film that is intended never to get old and aptly becomes new again for a new generation around the Christmas season.

On the other hand, in the warped imagination of liberal film makers, “Michael” supposedly about Michael, the Archangel, the highest seraphim who fought Satan and flung him to the burning sulfurous depths of hell and believed to be the protector of the nation of Israel, is portrayed as somewhat of a sleaze who is more human than angelic.

In this film, Archangel Michael can charm females because he smells of cookies and who is a bit of a Lothario to boot. It may be the lines in portraying angels but don’t be fooled by the liberal yarn on angels. Hollywood, in my opinion, has no gravitas on angelic matters.

Trust your own instincts. Your own personal experience will color the lens with which you view and relate with your personal guardian angel. God so loved the world, He sent His only son to redeem us from sin and death so we may gain eternal life — not unlike His angels.

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

Most people do not know or realize that poor dental/oral health increases our risk for diabetes T2 and, in turn, this metabolic disease adversely affects our teeth. It is a vicious cycle of cause and effect highlighted by the American Dental Association.

The ADA “two-way-street” clarification: “Blood sugars fueling the acidity that leads to tooth and root decay and gum disease, and dental disease that leads to infection and boosts blood glucose when the body’s immune system responds. The 2017 publication recognizes the close association of dental disease and diabetes, even though ADA acknowledges that causes and effects aren’t yet universally understood.”

Also, dental/oral infection, and infection (inflammation) in any other parts of the body increase our risks for cardiovascular diseases and cancer too.

This is why dental hygiene and regular visit to the dentist is paramount.

Sleep and diabetes Impairment in sleep raises our risk for metabolic disease, like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular illnesses, like heart attack, stroke, and even cancer. Yes, lack of restful sleep leads to increased proneness to all these major ailments, including deadly cancers.

Indeed, sleep is that important to our health and well being.

More and more, physicians today are far more vigilant about Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as a most common cause of impairment of sleep and its association and role to the development of (and as a worsening factor) for the major illnesses listed above About 3-7 percent (roughly about 10 to 16 million) of the U.S. population have sleep apnea, more among men. There are countless undiagnosed OSA cases. Almost 25 percent of individuals with diabetes T2 also have OSA, In OSA, there is frequent (could be hundred times a night) breath holding, severely reduced oxygen level, and the person wakes up gasping for breath. Some do not even wake up at all, suffering anoxia and heart attack or fatal heart-rhythm problem. The constant reduction in oxygen due to OSA every night also leads to fatigue, sleepiness during the daytime, lack of concentration, poorer decision-making, and inferior performance. Depriving the body oxygen and rest also increase the risk for those major diseases mentioned above, including cancer.

Among diabetics, Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB), OSA, and all other stresses, impair the metabolism of our body in general and, among those with diabetes, the body’s ability to allow the medications to work fully.

Metformin, the most popular drug for diabetes T2, which acts to reduce the glucose production in the liver and reduce the cell insulin resistance, acts less than 100 percent when the patient has an untreated sleep disorder. This makes the treatment less optimal. And the same thing is true among those patients with high blood pressure or other major ailments on treatment. A good restful sleep every day is essential for all of us.

After a sleep study has confirmed the diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the best treatment is the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) whenever going to sleep. CPAP has saved and improved countless lives.

Undermining global health The pernicious and criminal modus operandi of tobacco companies, particularly Philip Morris International (PMI) and British American Tobacco (BAT), of running secret campaigns to block or undermine the implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and governmental negotiations at the FCTC Conference of Parties (COP), according to the investigative reports by Reuters and The Guardian in Bangkok July 14, 2017.

These companies are undermining, not only health governance but the health of the people around the world, all in the name of income and profits as they act as the purveyors of diseases, family disruption, misery, and deaths.

The report says “the investigations reveal multiple tobacco industry offensives across at least 14 countries in Africa, America, and Asia, including Vietnam, and how they subvert the treaty on multiple levels.

Tobacco kills more than half a million annually in the ASEAN region, creates poverty among the users, and burdens the national economy with more than ten billion U.S. dollars in healthcare costs each year because of tobacco-related diseases and premature deaths.

These unconscionable criminal companies and their principals ought to be prosecuted and held accountable for their crime against humanity.

inflow target to $8 billion for this year after it reached a record high of $7.9 billion last year.

The Cabinet-level Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) has retained the country’s gross domestic prod-

uct (GDP) growth forecast at 6.5 to 7.5 percent this year from 6.9 percent last year.

The GDP growth inched up to 6.5 percent in the second quarter from 6.4 percent in the first quarter. n

Lemonade for kidney stones

*** 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. co m ; E m a i l : sca l p e l p e n @ g m a i l .co m

Foreign investments nearly...

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million.

Reinvestment of earnings increased 16.5 percent to $72 million in June from $62 million in the same month last year.

The BSP has raised its net FDI

Community Journal

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Immigration Corner

The October 2017 priority dates The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: Application Filing Date

FAMILY CATEGORY:

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

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

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

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

First Preference

Second Preference

(2A) Spouse and minor children (below November 1, 21 years old) of green 2016 card holder

October 22, 2015

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

September 1, 2007

January 1, 2007

Third Preference

Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.

June 15, 1995

February 22, 1995

Fourth Preference

Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.

March 1, 1995

June 1, 1994

LABOR CERTIFICATION:

Calendar of Events across

Visa Issuance Date

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

January 1, 2007

October 1, 2007

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2017

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America

SEPTEMBER 15

Kayamanan Ng Lahi performs at the Ford Theatre in Los Angeles “Tao Po!” – We Are Here! is a multi-disciplinary production that will cover the breadth of Philippine folk-based dance, music and song, juxtaposed with contemporary dance forms and musical stylings with underlying positive social messages. The show declares that Filipinos are here, there and everywhere, adding to the richly diverse cultural landscape of America. The evening will feature guest stars Deedee Magno Hall and Jennifer Paz of singing group Mama Bares and voice actors of Steven Universe, original music by Anthony Fedorov of American Idol, and the Glendale College Concert Singers with their musical director Dr. Peter Green. The performance will also include appearances from the following guests: Rondalla Club of Los Angeles – Philippine rondalla music; Giovanni Ortega – actor, playwright, director; Annie Nepomuceno – singer, T.V. personality, producer; Marc Macalintal – musical director; Guro Alvin Catacutan – Kali master; Beatriz Eugenia Vasquez – dancer/ choreographer; Kumu Keali’i Ceballos – choreographer for hula piece; Faith Santilla and Alison de la Cruz – spoken word; Vince Reyes – musician; and Culture Shock Los Angeles – street/urban dance. To purchase tickets, please visit https://secure.ticketsage.net/websales. aspx?u=fordtheatres&pid=320003.

S E P T E M B E R 1 5 -1 7

Application Filing Date

Visa Issuance Date

Second Preference

Advanced Degree (Masters)

Third Preference

Professional/ Skilled Workers

August 1, 2016 December 1, 2015

Other Workers

Non-Skilled Workers

August 1, 2016 December 1, 2015

Current

Current

Liliwenos reunion in Las Vegas, NV Calling all Liliwenos living all around the world! There will be a three-day reunion in Las Vegas, NV starting with a picnic on Friday, Sept. 15 at Silverado Ranch Park. On Saturday, Sept. 16, it is a dinner/dance party at the Palace Station (2411 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89102) at 5 p.m. The attire is semi-formal and costs $50 / person. Souvenir t-shirts cost $10 regardless of size. Deadline of payment for both the reunion and t-shirt cost is August 31 to be sent to Ms. Nerri Monteagudo at 9252 Bronze River, Las Vegas, Nevada 89149. On Sept.

17, participants are free to explore the Strip and other Vegas activities. For more information, please contact Bob and Nerri Monteagudo at (702) 339-3838; Carmen P. Manguin (702) 526-8005; Loida Borgonos at (201) 654-5482; or Fred Polistico at (818) 527-3476.

SEPTEMBER 16

43rd Bicol fiesta in Los Angeles and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California.

Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the

outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

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

The big Lincoln Park at 3529 N. Mission Road (cross st. Valley Blvd.), Los Angeles, CA 90031, will again be hosting an overflow of thousands of Bicolanos and their guests during the 43d “kafiestahan” (feast day) in LA in honor of their patroness, Our Lady of Penafrancia, on Sunday, Sept. 16. The festivity is held yearly under the auspices of the United Bicolandia Los Angeles (UBLA), a local association of Bicolanos who originally hailed from the provinces of Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate and Sorsogon, designated as Region V, in the Philippines. The day begins at 8 a.m. with the recitation of the 9th day novena, the last-day continuation of the previous eight days of novena prayers; at 9 a.m., a fluvial parade, a mass at 10 a.m., and a lunch at 12 p.m. After lunch, a “velada” of cultural and entertainment presentations will follow.

SEPTEMBER 17

Bayanihan Community Service Fair at Saint Aedans Church Bergen Ave., Jersey City At Saint Aedans Church, 800 Bergen Ave., Jersey City from 10:00 am to 3:00 p. Migrante New Jersey in partnership with Saint Aedans and partner organizations will be providing free and safe services to our immigrant community such as health screenings (blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, etc.), immigration and legal consultation and know your rights workshop.

S E P T E M B E R 23

Celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila in North Hills, CA Come celebrate with us! The Archdiocese of Los Angeles Filipino Ministry San Fernando Region invites all to the 9th regional celebration of the feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila on Saturday, Sept. 23 at Our Lady of Peace Parish (15444 Nordhoff St., North Hills, CA).

It starts with a procession at 4:15 p.m. and mass at 530 p.m. The Principal Celebrant is Most Rev. Gerald Wilkerson, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus. A reception and program follows right after mass at Schneider Hall. For a schedule of the nine-day novena masses prior to the event, please call Christine Hart at (818) 612-5060 or Patty Santiago at (818) 472-4288 or email Betty Defensor at bettydefensor@yahoo.com.

S E P T E M B E R 24

3rd annual Kultura: Filipino-American food & arts festival in Chicago END OF DACA: GET ANSWERS AND INFORMATION ON THE RECISSION OF DACA ON THIS SUNDAY’S “CITIZEN PINOY.” Attorney General Jeff Sessions just announced that the Executive Order implemented by former President Barack Obama in June 2012 on Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is being rescinded. This immediately resulted in strong reactions and many questions.

This Sunday, leading U.S. immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel gives the latest update, and answers questions to provide a better understanding on this new development on DACA. Atty. Gurfinkel also provides options for people who fall under DACA. Tune in for important guidance and discussion on an encore episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday at 6:15 p.m. (PST) on TFC. (Advertising supplement)

Business News Peso to weaken next year – DBS

by Lawrence

agcaoiLi Philstar.com

DBS Bank Ltd. of Singapore sees the peso weakening further to a range of 52.50 to 53.30 to $1 next year as the Philippines is set to book its first current account (CA) deficit in 15 years this year.

In its Economics Markets Strategy for the fourth quarter, DBS said the peso would depreciate gradually to settle at an average of 51.20 to $1 in the fourth quarter, 51.60 to $1 in the first quarter of next year, 52 to $1 in the second quarter, and 52.40 to $1 in the third quarter.

DBS sees the peso ranging between 50.30 and 52.10 in the fourth quarter, 50.70 to 52.50 in the first quarter of next year, 51.10 to 52.90 in the second quarter, and 51.50 to 53.30 in the third quarter.

“Investor focus is generally on the weak peso which has performed differently from the past few years,” it said.

The investment bank said the peso is the worst performing currency in Asia so far this year, depreciating by 2.9 percent year-to-date while Asian currencies gained 5.2 percent versus the greenback.

It pointed out the Philippines already booked a current account shortfall of $319 million

in the first quarter and the deficit is expected to increase to $600 million or 0.6 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year due to strong import growth while foreign inflows are not as strong as before.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. earlier said a CA deficit of less than one percent of GDP is manageable for the current development phase of the economy.

DBS said the possible rate hikes and the reverse quantitative easing by the US Federal Reserve as well as the strengthening of the dollar would add to the pressure.

“The peso will continue to be under pressure if these trends persist,” it said.

The investment bank said there are no reasons to be worried about the peso’s weakness as investors would realize the strength in import growth especially capital goods for investments needs.

It also cited the strong inflow of remittances and robust gross international reserves that could bode well for growth later on.

Multilateral lender International Monetary Fund (IMF) as well as debt watchers Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings have raised concerns over the country’s record trade deficit, rapid credit expansion, ro-

bust private investment, fiscal expansion, and material capacity constraints.

However, the country’s inflation averaged 3.1 percent in the first eight months, well within the two to four percent target set by the BSP. “The BSP did not share these overheating concerns but has signaled its readiness to raise rats should such signs emerge,” DBS said.

Despite the weakening of the peso, the investment bank said a currency crisis in the Philippines is quite unlikely as it is still being supported by strong remittances while foreign holdings of bonds are not high.

DBS retained its GDP growth forecast at 6.4 percent for this year and 6.7 percent next year but slashed its inflation forecasts to 2.9 percent from the original target of 3.2 percent for 2017 and 2018.

It expects the BSP to raise interest rates by 25 basis points in the fourth quarter and by another 25 basis points in the first quarter of next year. n

CEOs optimistic of PH growth prospects – survey

by angeLica

BaLLesteros ManilaTimes.net

THE number of Philippine business executives wanting to expand overseas has dropped given improvements in the country’s business prospects, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) said on Monday, September 11.

Citing a recent poll, PwC said that out of the 114 respondents surveyed, only 45 percent said they were looking abroad, or more particularly in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) region.

It was 61 percent a year earlier.

“It’s because of the growth

prospects of the Philippines,” PwC Philippines assurance partner Aldie Garcia said during a briefing.

“In the previous years, when we talked to CEOs, they were very neutral in terms of growth prospects in the Philippines … [now]with all the reforms on-

u PAGE CJ4

Kultura Festival is a contemporary Filipino-American food and arts festival taking place at Logan Square’s Emporium Arcade Bar (2363 N. Milwaukee Avenue) on Sunday, Sept. 24, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Carefully curated to appeal to those who personally identify with Filipino culture and the merely curious or uninitiated, Kultura Festival aims to highlight the best in Filipino-American food and arts in Chicago and around the Midwest. Kultura Festival signals the start of Filipino-American History Month, a nationally commemorated holiday every October since November 2009, with the passage of U.S. House Resolution 780 and Senate Resolution 298. Kultura Festival will showcase Chicago and Midwest-based FilipinoAmerican chefs such as Hapa Chicago (Chicago),Meat on the Street (Milwaukee), and Sarap Detroit (Detroit), Guerrilla Street Food and Skip To Malou (both from St. Louis), as well as Chef Sharwin Tee of Lifestyle TV’s Curiosity Got The Chef (Manila, Philippines). Additional chefs and the full festival menu will be soon announced. The curated menu promises to tantalize festival-goers with a wide variety of chef-prepared Filipino and Filipino-inspired dishes between $5 and $7 each.

Filipino American artist-entrepreneurs will offer their unique wares for purchase at the festival: custom tailored barong Tagalog (traditional formal wear) from New York Citybased Pineapple Industries; artwork, books and apparel based on the prePhilippine script, baybayin, from San Francisco-based expert Kristian Kabuay; and clothing, jewelry and accessories centered around indigenous symbols and spirituality from Los Angeles-based Ginto Seeds.

This year, Kultura Festival patrons can learn about the connections between Filipino cuisine and culture. Admission to the Lechon Lectures, hosted in adjacent The Upside Down pop-up bar, is included with Kultura Festival ticket. Two time Hugo award winning editor of Uncanny Magazine Michi Trota leads a panel discussion on the role of food in science fiction and fantasy storytelling and how Filipinx creators in these genres integrate food and cultural identity into their own work. Descriptions of the full Lechon Lectures lineup and schedule will soon be announced. As in previous years, Filipino American DJs will provide the soundtrack for the festivities (schedule TBA). Kultura festival general admission tickets are available for $20 ($15 ticket plus 5 Kultura dollars) online at https://ti.to/filipino-kitchen/ kultura-2017. Discounted general admission tickets are available for students with ID, senior citizens with ID, and children under 13 years of age. More information can be found at http://filipino.kitchen/kultura-festival/.

SEPTEMBER 30

PeDRO celebrates its 13th anniversary with a fundraising dinner dance The Philippine Disaster Relief Organization, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation invites everyone to “A Dinner to Remember” with surprise guests on Saturday, Sept. 30, from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Crystal Ballroom, Quiet Cannon, 909 N. Via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Free parking; $55 cost and formal attire. Maricar and the 4700 Band will provide musical entertainment with DJ George Cunanan. For more information, contact President Archerie Calunod (714) 655-4285 or PRO Bettie Francisco (323) 828-7648.

SF Assessor Carmen Chu’s free Family Wealth Forum In September, Assessor Carmen Chu will debut a new community event to help San Francisco families build their financial futures, the Family Wealth Forum. Often when speaking with community members, Assessor Chu receives questions about estate planning and passing on a family’s most valuable asset, their home. In response, she has created the Family Wealth Forum as a one-stop shop to answer those questions, offering multilingual workshops, one-on-one counseling with experts, and a variety of informative vendors. We invite you to join us for this free community event on Saturday, September 30, 2017 from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at City College, Ocean Campus’s Multi-Use Building, 50 Phelan Avenue. For more information and to register, please visit Family Wealth Forum - September 30, 2017 | CCSF Office of Assessor-Recorder.

O C TO B E R 7

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.

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

CJ

SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Consumer confidence dips in latest BSP poll

Business news

by Mayvelin

U. Caraballo ManilaTimes.net

OPTIMISM among Filipino households moderated in the third quarter, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported on Friday, September 8, with sentiment weighed down by factors such as price fears and the country’s peace and order situation.

Based on the BSP’s latest Consumer Expectations Survey (CES), the confidence index for the current period fell to 10.2 percent from the second quarter’s record high of 13.1 percent.

“Despite the decline in the CI, consumer confidence remained high, registering the second highest reading since the start of the nationwide survey in Q1 2007. The lower but positive CI indicates that the number of optimists declined but continued to outnumber the pessimists,” the central bank said in a statement.

It said the less favorable outlook was due to anticipated higher commodity prices that could lead to higher household expenditures, peace and order problems particularly the ongoing crisis in Marawi City, low or no increase in income, and an

agCaoili Philstar.com

household finances and overall economic condition. A positive CI indicates a favorable view regarding a given indicator, except for inflation, unemployment, interest rates and change in prices.

A negative CI indicates the opposite.

The CI is computed as the percentage of those who answered in the affirmative minus the percentage of those who answered otherwise.

The nationwide survey was conducted from July 1 to 15 and covered 5, 597 households, 2,763 or 49.4 percent from the National Capital Region (NCR) and 2,834 or 50.6 percent from areas outside the NCR. n

More OFW households...

PAGE CJ1 t

dertaken last March and June.

The results of the CES survey for the third quarter showed the percentage of OFW households saving remittances slipped to 42.1 percent from 45.9 percent in the second quarter of the year.

The percentage of OFW households using remittances to save as of the third quarter of the year was almost six times the 7.2 percent recorded when the CES was launched 10 years ago.

Guinigundo explained some of the expenditures of households have shifted to investments. Latest data showed personal remittances climbed 5.5 percent to $15.36 billion while cash remittances grew 4.7 percent to $13.81 billion in the first half of the year.

He said the percentage of Filipino families using remittances for medical expenses dropped to 52.5 percent in the third quarter from 60.8 percent in the second quarter as well as that for debt payments to

EMPLOYMENT

US IT giant puts up new facility in Taguig

by lawrenCe

expected increase in the number of unemployed.

“Respondents also cited other concerns on occurrence of calamities during the third quarter and poor health,” the BSP said.

Sentiment for the following quarter, however, improved with the CI rising to 17.8 percent from 13.6 percent in the previous survey.

The respondents’ more optimistic outlook for the next quarter stemmed from expectations of additional income and salary increases, improvement in peace and order, and the availability of more jobs.

The CI measures the average direction of shifts in three indicators: household income,

40.2 percent from 43.1 percent.

Guinigundo noted that OFW households have also put on hold major purchases.

The BSP official explained the percentage of households using remittances for the purchase of appliances or consumer durables slipped to 24.5 percent from 25.3 percent and for the purchase of house declined to 14.5 percent from 16.4 percent.

He said the percentage using remittances for the purchase of cars went down to 6.2 percent from 7.4 percent but is expected to increase with the impending increase in excise tax slapped to motor vehicles under the comprehensive tax reform program being pushed by the Department of Finance.

Majority at 98.1 percent allocate remittances for food and other household needs while 70.3 percent utilize the amount of money sent home by OFWs for education.

The survey for the third quarter

was conducted between July 1 and 15, covering 5,430 respondents.

Close to 10 percent of the total respondents or 504 households received remittances from abroad.

Rosabel Guerrero, director of the BSP’s Department of Economic Statistics (DES), said the percentage of all households with savings went up to 35.6 percent in the third quarter from 34.4 percent the previous quarter.

She said households save money for emergencies, education, retirement, health and hospitalization, business capital and investment as well as for the purchase of real estate.

Guerrero pointed out almost two-thirds or 65.8 percent of household savers had bank deposit accounts while 42.4 percent kept their savings at home.

On the other hand, 28.7 percent of the household savers put their money in cooperatives, ‘paluwagan,’ other credit or loan associations as well as investments in stocks and insurance. n

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CALIFORNIA-based IT giant Ingram Micro is expanding its presence in the Philippines as it continues to beef up its presence in the Asia Pacific region.

Ingram Micro recently inaugurated a new facility at the Two World Square, Upper McKinley, Taguig City to house its diverse and brilliant Filipino talents supporting various processes, from global IT operations to sales and fulfillment.

The Fortune 100 and wholesale technology distribution world leader Ingram Micro continues its aggressive expansion in the global IT market by bringing its continued growth on Philippine shore as its Glob-

al Shared Services in Manila.

Established in 2009, the Ingram Micro Global Shared Services-Manila is part of a 30,000 strong workforce that supports more than 1,700 vendors and 200,000 customers.

Ingram Micro managing director Junar Amador said the company continues to dominate in the IT distribution space.

He pointed out Filipinos have become one of the most soughtafter talents to support the increasing demands for its global operations.

“It just proves how ubiquitous the Filipino workforce is in the success of the global IT-BPM industry. Philippines is not just a social media capital, we have also become the IT-BPM capital of the world, thanks to the globally competitive Filipino talents. As a

global IT brand, we believe that this is where the future is going and the Filipino workforce will continue to be at the forefront in elevating the IT-BPM industry to greater heights,” Amador said.

He said Ingram Micro will continue to invest in the Philippines as well as Filipino talents.

“That’s why we put tons of our efforts in our People agenda, such as shaping our culture according to the values that our talents can deeply relate to, and creating a great employee experience that is life enriching and truly rewarding,” he added.

Aside from remittances from overseas Filipinos, the country’s business process outsourcing (BPO) industry continues to be a major source of foreign exchange. n

ships. So, I think about 30 to 40 percent would get into M&A. But if you compare that to last year’s results—for cross-border results—last year’s was, I think, only 17 percent. So there is some marked increase in terms of intention to enter into M&A. Though, still, partnership is still the preferred route working together,” she added.

The survey also showed 55 percent of business leaders were confident about their industry’s revenue growth prospects in the next 12 months, compared with 53 percent last year.

Fifty-four percent remainedositive about growth in the next

three years, compared with 52 percent in 2016.

Among the most preferred industries were consumer and retail; healthcare, pharmacy, and life sciences; retail and wholesale distribution; technology; food and beverage; and real estate.

With the growing penetration of technology, 71 percent of the CEOs said they wantedo strengthen innovation, digital, and technological capabilities to capitalize on new opportunities.

Fifty-nine percent believed technology would significantly impact their respective industries over the next five years. n

CEOs optimistic of PH...

PAGE CJ3 t going and the programs of the government, 45 percent of them explicitly said that their growth prospects are in the country,” he said.

Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia were next on the list at 20 percent, 19 percent and 16 percent, respectively.

“The three countries were selected by our CEOs because of relative political risk stability, ongoing reforms similar to what we are having here in the country, and more importantly, a bright economic prospect,” Garcia said.

Jade Divinagracia, PwC managing partner for deals and corporate finance, said there was quite a number of the CEOs open to inviting partners.

“What we observed in our conversations with them is that most of them are not open to divesting shares but they are open to collaboration and that’s very reflective in terms of the responses in their surveys,” she said.

“If you look at the companies who are more open to M&A (mergers and acquisitions) omestically, as well as M&A across borders, this year’s survey results are more encouraging, Divinagracia added “A lot of them are becoming more open, lower than those who prefer to enter partner-

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COMMUNITY JOURNAL

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2017

CJ5

People & Events SF expands services for residents dealing with homelessness, Free fall training for Senior Peer Counselors substance use and mental health challenges SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Mayor Edwin M. Lee and Public Health Director Barbara Garcia recently announced the opening of a new 24-hour program at Hummingbird Place to provide respite and resources to care for San Francisco residents who are experiencing homelessness, mental health and substance use challenges.

The expanded program will offer respite, clinical and peer counseling, hot meals, showers and overnight accommodations to help clients regroup and find their footing after a crisis episode. Direct referrals to treatment will be available to Hummingbird Place clients.

“We are helping our most vulnerable residents break out of the cycle of streets and hospitalization,” said Mayor Lee. “Hummingbird Place will provide the personalized care necessary to ensure that individuals have a chance to reclaim their lives and start anew. We are committed to addressing the root causes of homelessness, and providing treatments for behavioral health and substance use will help us reach that goal.”

Hummingbird Place originally opened in 2015 as a day program providing peer counseling and support, which will continue. The new and expanded model of care adds multi-disciplinary staff, including professionals and peers.

Clients may be referred from Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, Psychiatric Emer-

gency Services, the Homeless Outreach Team (SFHOT), the Encampment Resolution Team and community providers.

“The programs at Hummingbird Place will focus on those that are leaving psychiatric emergency care and also coming from the city’s various homeless services,” said Barbara Garcia, Director of Health. “The program’s focus will be on helping homeless people that have had multiple visits to hospitals due to psychiatric and addiction crisis.

At Hummingbird Place, they will find a safe and supportive environment, assistance with health and social services, medication management, benefits counseling and a place to spend the night.”

Hummingbird Place is part of the City’s Navigation Center system. A national model, Navigation Centers provide clients with access to intensive case management, critical service connection to healthcare, entitlement benefits, and drug treatment programs. More than 70 percent of residents who stay in Navigation Centers are successfully transitioned into permanent housing, safe temporary placements or reunited with family members. Hummingbird Place is the first Navigation Center in San Francisco specifically tailored for individuals experiencing mental health issues and addiction.

“The opening of the Hummingbird Navigation Center is

yet another example of San Francisco’s ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issue of homelessness,” said Jeff Kositsky, director of the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing. “Providing a safe place for people struggling with homelessness and serious health issues will help navigate some of our most vulnerable neighbors to the services and housing they so desperately need. I am deeply grateful for the leadership of Barbara Garcia and the hard work of everyone at the Department of Public Health who helped make this happen.”

The new program opens today with four beds and will expand to 15 beds by December.

It will be managed by Positive Resource Center/Baker Places (PRC), a San Francisco provider with extensive experience caring for dual diagnoses (mental health and substance use) patients. Admissions will be by referral, managed by the San Francisco Health Network’s Transitions team, and will mirror the criteria used by the City’s navigation centers that allow for people to bring their belongings, pets and partners with them. Residents dealing with homelessness, as well as those who are marginally housed, will be eligible.

“As one of the only respite centers of its kind in the nation, Hummingbird Place is designed to help people who are not sick enough for the hospital, but

they’re too ill to live on the streets or stay in a homeless shelter,” said Brett Andrews, CEO of PRC. “By combining one-on-one peer support and professional staffing, this facility creates a unique short-term overnight model that fits well within our continuum of care practice.”

Hummingbird Place is located in the Behavioral Health Center next to the Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital campus.

The BHC provides residential and outpatient services to adults with mental health and substance use needs, and is operated by the San Francisco Health Network, the care delivery system of the Department of Public Health.

Services provided at Hummingbird Place will include: • Referral to primary care medical and psychiatric community providers • Medication monitoring • Linkage to social services • Transportation to medical and social services appointments • Hot meals • Individual and group counseling • One-on-one peer support • Daily living skills training • Provision of activities of daily living materials (i.e. clothing, showering, hygiene supplies, laundry facilities, etc.)

• Coordination of services and discharge planning. ■

Thousands to clean up San Mateo County on 33rd Annual Coastal and Bay Cleanup Day SAN Mateo, Calif. — Thousands of San Mateo County residents will convene at their local beaches, creeks, waterways, parks and neighborhoods to clear tons of trash and debris at the 33rd annual Coastal and Bay Cleanup Day, September 16, 2017, 9 a.m. to 12 noon. They will be joined by tens of thousands of people across the state, helping to make our communities cleaner and healthier for people and animals.

Residents wanting to participate should check out smchealth.org/ccd for a full list of more than 30 sites across San Mateo County. Families are encouraged to bring their children, as this family-friendly event is a great opportunity to learn about litter

and how to prevent it from ending up in our local streets and waterways.

Participants are encouraged to carpool, bike or take public transit to their closest location and bring their own buckets, gloves and reusable water bottle to help reduce the event’s overall environmental footprint.

On the day of the cleanup, check in at the site location sign-in table to receive direction from a volunteer coordinator.

Last year’s success was due to participation by 4,145 people who volunteered their time at cleanup events across San Mateo County. Volunteers collected 22,788 pounds of trash, including over 6,000 cigarette butts, and 3,882 pounds

of recyclables. Statewide, over 59,000 volunteers removed over 710,000 pounds of trash and recyclables during last year’s event.

Since 2005, an estimated 347,206 pounds of debris has been removed from San Mateo County by the great work of volunteers during this annual event. San Mateo County Health System’s Environmental Health Services coordinates Coastal and Bay Cleanup Day with the California Coastal Commission, Ocean Conservancy, and many statewide and local partners.

Clean up will be over 30 locations across the county. See smchealth.org/ccd for a full list of sites.. ■

THE Senior Peer Counseling Program is offered at no cost

by Peninsula Family Service in San Mateo County to adults age 55 and older. The Senior Peer Counseling Program matches trained volunteers (you!) with peers to offer supportive listening. Senior Peer Counseling is a one-on-one service provided by trained volunteers who offer confidential emotional support, and empathy to older adults facing challenges such as loneliness, depression, grief, isolation from family and friends, loss, and life changes. Senior Peer Counseling develops a special bond of trust between two people who share similar age, experience values, wisdom and culture.

Aging isn’t always pleasant and easy and many older adults lack knowledge of the services available in the community. Besides offering a supportive ear these volunteers offer linkage to the many resources available to them in the San Mateo County, such as activities for older adults, food programs, health support, legal assistance, housing – to name just a few.

Why volunteer?

You can make a positive difference in the lives of others. You will learn the facts and challenges of aging and the many things that occur in this process - what to do or how you can help. Our graduates report that they have personally benefited from what they have learned and that they are able to use their new knowledge to relate not only to clients, but to their families and friends as well.

Listening is one important and simple aspect of the counseling program. Volunteers are not licensed, like those that have degrees and experience in social

work. They are allies and guides to those who need emotional support and guidance. With peer counseling, those people who are hesitant to allow a counselor or therapist to “listen” to them are more comfortable meeting with a peer counselor who shares a similar background and experiences.

Training starts on October 17 through November 15th from 9am to 1:00 pm on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, 1300 South El Camino Real, Suite 100, San Mateo. Training includes Overview and Ethics of Senior Peer Counseling; Mental Health Challenges of Mature Adults, Diverse Needs of Older Adults, Listening Skills and other related aging issues. A film “Being Mortal” will also be shown.

Counseling is offered in English, Tagalog, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, and to the LGBTQ community. For additional information; Call Ofelia Carpio Albrecht at Peninsula Family Service – 650.403.4300 Ext. or email: oalbrecht@peninsulafamilyservice.org.

Peninsula Family Service More than six decades ago, Peninsula Family Service, a private nonprofit organization headquartered in San Mateo, California, was created to strengthen and maintain local families. Over the years, our original staff of two has grown to 150 employees who support participants in four Bay Area Counties: San Benito, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and San Mateo. Together with the help of our board, advisors, donors, volunteers and partners, we serve nearly 10,000 individuals who need our help overcoming the barriers standing between themselves and a life of opportunity, financial stability, and wellness. ■

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

SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2017 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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

Friday, September 15, 2017

The 2017 Ramon Magsaysay Award recepients (L-R) the Philippine Educational Theater Association(PETA) led by Cecilia Garrucho, Tony Tay of Singapore, Gethsie Shanmugam of Sri Lanka, Lilia De Lima of the Philippines, Abdon Nababan of Indonesia, and Yoshikai Ishizawa of Japan. Photo courtesy of the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation

SF2

cover story The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 15, 2017

THe 59TH RAMON MAGSAYSAY AWARDS

Transforming societies through a commitment to the larger good

By IrIs

VIcente AJPress

Five awardees and an organization from countries across Asia received the Ramon Magsaysay Award on August 31 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in Manila.

This year’s 59th Ramon Magsaysay Awardees came from indonesia, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Japan and the Philippines who were recognized and honored by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation board of trustees for their distinction in their respective fields who altogether advanced causes to improve lives and transform societies across Asia, without anticipating public recognition.

The Ramon Magsaysay Award is an annual accolade established to uphold former Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay’s example of integrity in governance, courageous service to the people, and pragmatic idealism within a democratic society. The prize was established in April 1957 by the trustees of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund based in New York City with the concurrence of the Philippine government.

The award has been lauded as the most reputable continental award in Asia, at par with the West’s Nobel Prize.

The event was graced by dignitaries including Ombudsman Conchita Carpio, who was also an awardee in 2016, former Philippine President Fidel Ramos, and vice President Leni Robredo, whose late husband Jesse Robredo was also an awardee in 2000. “if we want to see more growth, exciting innovation, and prosperity in the next century, we must accept the fact that we cannot move forward without taking care of each other and making sure that no one is left behind,” Robredo said in her closing speech.

Awardees The awardees are Tony Tay from Singapore for “his quiet, abiding dedication to a simple act of kindness — sharing food with others — and his inspir-

ing influence in enlarging this simple kindness into a collective, inclusive, vibrant volunteer movement that is nurturing the lives of many in Singapore” through his fully volunteerbased, non-profit organization called “Willing Hearts”. This organization distributes hot, packed meals daily to the poor.

The group now cooks 6,000 meals daily by 300 regular volunteers.

Gethsi Shanmugam from Sri Lanka devoted four decades of her life with her intense involvement in rebuilding lives of Sri Lankan people from the psychosocial wounds of war and violence when she worked with Save the Children Norway (SCN).

Lilia De Lima from the Philippines, is the first DirectorGeneral of Philippine economic Zone Authority (PeZA) who led spectacular reforms during her leadership and regulated the foreign investments in the country’s economic zones. “Her unstinting, sustained leadership in building a credible and efficient PeZA, proving that the honest, competent and dedicated work of public servants can, indeed, redound to real economic benefits to millions of Filipinos.”

For 50 years, Yoshiaki ishizawa from Japan, devoted his life to help ensure that Angkor Wat survives and remains a living monument for Cambodians. He worked side by side with Cambodians to generate awareness and support, and devised programs for Angkor’s protection and conservation which shows his selfless service.

He insists that “The protection and restoration of the sites of Cambodia should be carried out by the Cambodians, for the Cambodians.”

The Philippine educational Theater Association (PeTA) was the only organization that was recognized this year. The organization rose to prominence with groundbreaking productions in Filipino, the national language, that were remarkable for their artistry and social relevance, at a time of resurgent

Yoshiaki Ishizawa, Japan For restoring Cambodia’s treasured gift to world culture

Gethsie Shanmugam, Sri Lanka For rebuilding lives from the psychosocial wounds of war and violence

Tony Tay, Singapore For mobilizing collective goodwill to address hidden hunger

Abdon Nababan, Indonesia For giving compelling face and voice to Adat communities and their rights

nationalism and deepening political crisis in the country.

Abdon Nababan from indonesia, was one of the organizers of a congress that launched AMAN (Aliansi Masyarakat Adat Nusantara), or “indigenous Peoples Alliance of the Archipelago,” a mass-based organization that today has over 115 local chapters and 21 regional chapters throughout the country’s thirty-four provinces.

He gave a compelling face and voice to Adat communities and their rights.

The awards are given in

Above and right: Vice President Leni Robredo graced the awarding ceremony on August 31.

five categories: government service; public service; community leadership; journalism, literature, and creative communication arts; and peace and international understanding.

Some of the most notable Ramon Magsaysay awardees are Mother Theresa in 1962, who’s now known in the Catholic Church as Saint Therese, the late former Philippine President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino in 1998, famed Filipino director Lino Brocka in 1985, and the late former Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago in 1988.

Photos from the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation

Angel Locsin admits real score with rumored boyfriend by chrIstIna

alpad ManilaTimes.net

“NO labels.”

After struggling to explain the kind of relationship she and film producer Neil Arce share, actress Angel Locsin finally found the phrase she considers to best describe them.

“Parang kayo pero hindi kayo (it’s like you’re together but you are not officially together). it’s difficult to explain but what i can say is, we do not hide from anyone when we go out. We also don’t date anyone else. So i think, label na lang [yung kulang],” the actress said at a press conference announcing her return to Tv series “La Luna Sangre.”

The original lead of fantasy series “Lobo” from which “La Luna” became a spin-off, Locsin appeared during the pilot week of the latter but was eventually killed in the series. She portrayed Malia’s mother in the Daniel Padilla-Kathryn Bernardo-star-

rer, but returned to the show on Monday, Sept. 11 with a new role as Jacintha Magsaysay.

Meanwhile, rumors that Arce [who was formerly in a relationship with actress Bela Padilla] and Locsin [whose last boyfriend was Luis Manzano] are dating began circulating in April when the former was spotted celebrating with the latter during her birthday, constantly posting their romantic photos and sweet nothings online thereafter.

“Yes, we exchange i love you’s, many times. Yes, napaguusapan naman namin pero mas OK muna ang ganito, no labels,” Locsin further noted.

While it’s easy for naysayers to comment that the actress was just playing along the classic show business answers when celebrities are confronted about relationship status, Locsin raised a valid point.

“Di ba kasi, when you are officially together, one should ask Continued on Page SF3

Neil Arce and Angel Locsin

Photo from Instagram/@therealangellocsin

A spotlight on Filipino awardees

By JennIfer

sorIano/ AJPress

LiLia De Lima Former PeZa Director-GeneraL Twenty-one years after being hailed as the first Director-General of Philippine economic Zone Authority (PeZA), Lilia De Lima has been recognized by the Ramon Magsaysay Awards Foundation (RMAF) for “her unstinting, sustained leadership in building a creative and efficient PeZA, proving that the honest,competent and dedicated work of public servants can,indeed, redound to real economic benefits to millions of Filipinos.”

“Under Lilia De Lima’s leadership, PeZA enabled the rise of the Philippines as one the region’s top investment destinations,” as stated in RMAF’s citation. in her response speech during the Presentation Ceremonies de Lima recounted what she went through during her term in PeZA. “it wasn’t all a walk in the park. We inherited an extremely bloated bureaucracy. Trimming the fat by six percent was a long, tortuous and emotionally-draining process. it was the most grueling experience of my public career,” recalled the former Director-General of PeZA from iriga City.

Reflecting on her career, De Lima said, “i cannot solve the problems of the world but if in my own little area i can make a difference, then i must make that difference.” in 1995, De Lima was appointed as the PeZA Director-General by then President Fidel v. Ramos. The RMAF described her term — which lasted until her retirement in 2016 — as “nothing short of spectacular.”

PhiLiPPine eDucationaL theater association (Peta) The Philippine educational Theater Association (PeTA) is one among the six awardees, but the only organization to receive the honor this year. “in electing the PeTA to receive the 2017 Ramon Magsaysay Award, the board of trustees recognizes its bold, collective contribution in shaping the theater arts as a force for social change, its impassioned, unwavering work in empowering communities in the Philippines, and the shining example it has set as one of the leading organizations of its kind in Asia,” the citation for the Association in the 2017 Ramon Magsaysay Awards read.

“First, shocked and then great joy. Celebration talaga,” said PeTA President Cecilia Garrucho when asked about PeTA’s initial reaction upon learning that they are one of the recipients of the award.

PeTA, who is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, was created with the initial vision of coming up with a “national theater” in the Philippines. Starting small, the organization started in the historic city of intramuros, Manila which eventually emerged victorious in the ‘70s through their groundbreaking productions, all produced in Filipino, the national language.

“After martial law was declared, PeTA stayed active, together with other groups, in staging theater as a medium for protest and conscientization even under dictatorship,” the citation further read.

The productions were well accepted by the audience for its “artistry and social relevance”, especially during the Martial Law under the Marcos regime, which the PeTA considers as their most challenging yet rewarding time.

“We continued to do plays but we always have to be creative,” PeTA executive Director Ma. Gloriosa Santos-Cabangon said when asked how did the theater group survive the dictatorial regime.

“Those were challenging times but to your question, i think that was also the period wherein it really brought out our creativity. Kasi when the times are so repressive, you don’t have money pa. Ay talaga namang magiging creative ka na (It will make you creative). So we are very proud of that part of our history,“ Cabangon proudly tells the Asian Journal in an exclusive interview.

A Filipino who has finally felt at home in her response speech held during the formal Presentation Ceremonies held on Thursday, August 31, Garrucho recalled how she felt when she watched “Bayaning Huwad,” a powerful play about Philippine history and heritage staged by PeTA. This was the time she got amused by the “sheer beauty” of the Filipino language and culture. “i remember asking. How have i become a total stranger in my language and to my culture? That play changed the entire direction of my life.” “i felt that as a Filipino, i have finally come home,” said Garrucho.

The play inspired Guidote to join PeTA where they were taught early on that whatever they learn as artists, they were to share by teaching other, especially non-theater people.

Bringing out the creative power Garrucho recalled how they would go out in small teams to barangays in different parts of the country and their purpose was always to draw out the creative power of ordinary folk.

“This [creativity] was Cecile Guidote’s [PeTA founder] original mission, that the theater workshop aims to bring out, [in] her belief was each and everyone of us citizens, rich or poor, naka-aral or hindi (educated or not), there is a creative power stored in each one,” said Garrucho.

The PeTA president also said the workshop’s function is to bring out the creative power. She explained that the PeTA workshops aim to bring that creative power.

“So that’s also the principle of the workshop, it’s called the Gold Mind Theory. each one has a potential gold mind, ilalabas mo ‘yun, (you let it out),” said Garrucho.

PeTA is now operating as a collective of “artist-teachers.” its major units include Kalinangan ensemble, its repertory and performing arm; the School of People’s Theater (SPT) is PeTA’s training arm, the School of People’s Theater engaged in yearround training and community development; and a Special Programs unit that is responsible for specific advocacies.

Call for support “Theater cannot exist by itself, on its own because it has to have an audience, “ said the PeTA president.

Garrucho called for support for the theater by watching or by joining their workshops.

They also have a theater association program where people can subsidize poor school children’s tickets.

“You have to come and help for theater to survive. The stronger the theater is, the stronger the community is,” Garrucho said.

entertainment SF3 Hayden Kho and Vicki Belo: Their bumpy ride How Gerald Anderson to a happily ever after copes with a busy schedule The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – September 15, 2017

SAN FRANCISCO

BY MONET

LU

THERE’S a well known proverb in Tagalog that’s been said so many times yet its meaning still rings true: “Sa hinaba haba ng prusisyon, sa simbahan din ang tuloy.” Loosely translated in English as, “no matter how long the ‘road’ seems, it’ll still lead to one destination: the church.”

Pardon my poor translation of the phrase but you get what I mean. If not, let me tell you about a couple who serves as a living testament of this proverb. They are no other than Hayden Kho and Vicki Belo.

I’ve known Vicki since 2005.

She was Reflections’ Woman of Year in 2006, a Fil-Am recognition event that I have been running for twenty years. She is known to many as Dra. Vicki Belo, the famous cosmetic surgeon and the woman who captured the heart of celebrity hunk Hayden Kho, who is now a born-again Christian and reportedly training to be a pastor.

Quite the transformation from being a former celebrity and a controversial figure (for not-too-good reasons) to a man who, and I quote, “gave [his] full commitment to the Lord (Jesus Christ).” Now it is not only to his Lord that he gave his commitment to. He recently committed himself to be a husband to Vicki, his girlfriend of 12 years and mother of his daughter Scarlet Snow.

The couple recently tied the knot in Paris following their civil wedding in the Philippines.

Around 50 local celebrities, most of them endorsers of Belo’s beauty empire, flew to Paris to attend the event that was said to be the “wedding of the year.” It was reported that the couple spent a total of P80 million for their grand celebration.

PEP online reported, “Among these are the P1.7-million firstclass flight of Belo, Kho and their daughter Scarlet Snow to Paris; the P83,000 “donation” to their ceremony church; the two-day rent for the Palais Garnier’s Grand Foyer at P11.6 million; Belo’s one-week stay at the Ritz hotel’s Coco Chanel suite at P1.35 million per night; the bridal gowns by Michael Cinco at P8 million; the rented chauffeur-driven luxury cars for wedding guests at P1.76 million for 48 hours; and the five-course meal at the reception starting at P16,000 per head for 250 guests.”

The hefty price tag may feel like an exaggeration (and downright impractical) for some people but to family and friends (myself included) who have witnessed all the dramas and tribulations that these two have endured, it’s the BEST way to mark the new chapter of their romance.

It was such a beautiful wedding as told by their guests. It may not be your typical marriage since the couple already has an adorable daughter to begin with but their relationship is no different from any typical “hanging by a thread” kind of relationship. It was marked with controversies, lies and infidelity.

I remember how these two started out as one of the most unlikely couples in the industry. For one, they came from different worlds – Vicki was formerly married with two kids, a

Photos courtesy of Hayden Kho and Vicki Belo

successful business owner and a multimillionaire cosmetic surgeon and is many years Hayden’s senior – who was a struggling doctor at the time and is from a middleclass family in Marinduque.

Hayden was a former employee of Vicki Belo Medical Group when they fell in love and became lovers against all odds. One of the odds was the disapproval of Vicki’s daughter Cristalle. Yet love prevailed and the two officially admitted their May-December romance in 2005.

In 2008, rumors surfaced that the two had broken up over a third-party issue, followed by the greatest test that they ever had to face which was the Hayden video scandal that also caused him to lose his medical license.

Though the public only caught wind of that specific breakup, some sources said that the two have broken up and made up so many times. The last break up was said to be the cause of Hayden’s several suicide attempts. The relationship spiraled down and dragged both of them. You could say that it has to do with their age gap or Hayden’s sudden fame and fortune when he tried showbiz, but nonetheless, it was a bumpy ride that they both had to hit the brakes on.

It was in 2013 that Hayden found Christ or, as he kept saying in his interviews, “Christ found [him].” In an episode of The 700 Club, Hayden shared his testimony of how he hit rock bottom and sought Christ through the guidance and teaching of a Christian evangelist named Dr. Ravi Zacharias. It was one of those moments when he saw the futility of his life and decided to commit himself to following Jesus Christ. He took a sabbatical from the limelight; in 2014 his medical license was reinstated, and a couple of years later, he was back into Vicki’s arms once again. In 2016, the two officially introduced their uber-cute and doting daughter Scarlet Snow, whose name was taken from a bible passage in Isaiah.

Now that Hayden and Vicki have promised to love each other as husband and wife, I couldn’t help but get emotional as I recall what they had to go through before they finally reached their destination. Like what our grandfathers would say, “sa simbahan din ang tuloy.”

To Hayden and Vicki Belo-Kho, I have nothing but best wishes to you both. It was a bumpy ride alright but it eventually led

WITH his active lifestyle, constant travels and late nights on the set, Gerald Anderson needs to keep himself healthy and strong in order to be the best at what he does.

The actor is busy with various projects, most recent of which was his starring role in the film “AWOL,” the only action film entry in the first Pista Ng Pelikulang Pilipino spearheaded by the Film Development Council Of The Philippines.

His soft spot for soldiers prodded him to organize a special screening of AWOL for the wounded soldiers of Marawi —his way of giving honor and tribute to those who sacrificed to the fairytale wedding you both their lives and limbs in the serdeserve. vice of the Filipino people. *** He also stars in the ABSMonet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-win- CBN top-rating daily series ning celebrity beauty stylist with his own “Ikaw Lang Ang Iibigin” reunitchain of Monet Salon salons across Southern ing him with Kim Chiu and Jake California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Cuenca, who were his co-stars Monet is known as an all-around artiste who in the mega hit series “Tayong produces sold-out fashion and awards shows Dalawa” in 2009. as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns.

An exciting, new actionMonet is also the founder of the revolutionary themed project is also in the all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, works for this very energetic your solution to discoloration . To contact actor, advocate, and athlete.

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Gerald Anderson

ABS-CBN photo

tion, which provides assistance to the Philippine Coast Guard K-9 Search and Rescue Unit, which recently celebrated its first year anniversary.

Besides this, he is also actively helping the Cottolengo Filipino, Inc. — an institution for children with special needs.

This foundation became very close to his heart after working on his hit TV series “Budoy.”

He likewise spends his birthdays with the cancer patients of Cancer Warriors Foundation, spreading joy to the afflicted.

Anderson is also known as a spirited triathlete for over a year now. He trains four hours

every day every time he prepares for meets and competitions all over the world.

In the recently concluded Ironman in Cebu where he participated in the bike relay, his group “Team DeRosa” placed fourth overall. Among his many other athletic endeavors, the actor has also participated in the Los Angeles 42K marathon in March. He is also an avid basketball fan and played in the Star Magic All-Star Game for the Blue Team, against Daniel Padilla’s “Red Team,” scoring an impressive 42 points, leading his team to victory.

Continued on Page SF4

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Angel Locsin and Neil Arce

Photo from Instagram/@neil_arce

Angel Locsin admits real score...

From Page SF2

and then the other should say yes. With that, may anniversary date. Wala kasing ganun sa amin so I can’t claim naman [that we are boyfriend-girlfriend],” she related.

But while she finds difficulty in labeling their relationship, Locsin was quick to point out Arce’s effect on her.

“I’m happy. When you have someone very honest and smart who supports you, who gives good life pieces of advice, whom

you know will always be with you, you feel comfortable and relaxed.

And that’s where I am right now,” Locsin shared smiling.

The actress admitted that they are both taking extra care in their current relationship because they don’t want to ruin their eight long years of friendship before falling in love.

“Iniingatan namin ang isa’t isa kasi nga pag nag-away kami, wala na kaming ibang makakausap,” Locsin said, adding that in their previous heartaches they would console each other.

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celebrityworld

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 15, 2017

celebrity world

By Ferdie Villar

Ai Ai delas Alas is busy as a happy bee planning for her wedding with non-showbiz fiance, Gerald Sibayan. The bride-to-be recently shared with Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP) that two of her best friends from showbiz are part of the wedding entourage.

The comedienne and Gerald will tie the knot this year.

“Si Marian (Rivera) ang veil sponsor. Si Sharon Cuneta ang matron of honor, at si Sophia [Ai-Ai’s daughter] ang maid of honor. Best men si Sancho [her son] at si Alden Richards, pati ang best friend ni Gerald na si Kenneth,” she said.

Kapamilya Primetime Queen Marian also offered to pay for Ai Ai’s wedding gown — by famous fashion designer Frederick Peralta — as a gift. it’s no secret that the comedienne has had her fair share of failed marriages and relationships, having being divorced twice before, but Ai Ai shared that her upcoming union with

Gerald is special.

“Excited ako dahil first time ko na ikakasal sa simbahan, at saka parang, kumbaga sa faith ko, wala na akong pagkakamali dahil ikakasal na ako,” Ai Ai said.

She also added that although there were misgivings and doubts about having a relationship with a younger man, eventually the public was able to see that Gerald is the one for her. “Wala na rin akong bashers. Tanggap na nila. Siguro na-prove nila na hindi lang etchos-etchos ang relasyon namin ni Gerald.” *** Former Binibining Pilipinas 2016 candidate Sarah Christine Bona became the first Filipina to win a beauty title for the country this year when she was crowned Miss Nature intercontinental 2017.

The environment-driven beauty competition was participated by more than 20 aspiring candidates from all

Sarah Bona won the Miss Nature International crown last September 9 in Poland. A former Bb. Pilipinas 2016 candidate, she bested more than 20 other participants with her winning answer about the state of Photo from Miss Nature International Facebook page rainforests.

Ai Ai delas Alas getting ready with wedding plans

Comedienne Ai Ai delas Alas is busy preparing for her upcoming wedding with non-showbiz fiance, Gerald Sibayan.

Retired Army Sergeant Jaime Velasco and his wife Matilda Velasco from Antioch, recently arrived from the Philippines where they visited their relatives and friends.

Kapamilya Primetime Queen Marian Rivera (Dantes) will be part of the entourage of Ai Ai delas Alas’ wedding this year as a veil sponsor. She also offered to pay for Ai Ai’s gown designed by Frederick Peralta.

Megastar Sharon Cuneta will be the Matron of Honor during Ai Ai delas Alas’ wedding to fiance Gerald Sibayan this year. The comedienne’s daughter, Sophie, will stand as Maid of Honor.

over the world. One of the beauty organization’s projects is to “promote healthy living, ecology and ecological awareness.” The pageant took place last September 4-9 in Szczecin, Poland.

Other winners include Slovakia’s Júlia Kokorudova as first runner-up and Bulgaria’s Miglena Nikolova as second runner-up.

The top 6 included candi-

dates from Poland, the United States, and Belarus.

During the Q&A, Sarah was asked about the state of rainforests around the world, where she acknowledged that the “biggest problem is us.”

Sarah related, “Rainforests are the most important part of ecology, so what is happening in the rainforest world right now is that we are losing many plants, animals, and even microorganisms and that is due to deforestation.

“Taking good care of our environment is so obvious… in our environment, the biggest problem is us.

“Yes, we may be the biggest threat, but the solution is we can be its savior through raising awareness through information dissemination, education, and sharing idea through social media.

“Through those collective

Town mates and Friends:

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Actor Avin “Vin” Gulang Abrenica, younger brother of Kapamilya talent Aljur Abrenica, is part of ABSCBN 2’s popular teleserye, “Wildflower.”

Former Bb. Pilipinas 2016 candidate Sarah Bona kicked off the Philippines’ beauty pageant campaign by being the first Filipina to bring home a title this year. The morena beauty was crowned as Miss Nature Photo from Instagram @arahqueenbee International 2017 in Poland recently.

efforts, we can change the world.”

Prior to winning Miss Nature intercontinental 2017, Sarah also articipated in the Miss ASEAN Friendship pag-

eant in Vietnam, where she finished in the Top 5.

Well done, Sarah!

We’re looking forward to many more titles for Filipina beauty queens this year!

‘Hamilton’ star Rachelle Ann Go gets engaged, show moved to December ThiNK Christmas, not Thanksgiving, for the London opening of the hit musical “hamilton.”

Promoters said that the official opening night will be Dec. 21 following previews that begin on Dec. 6.

The show had been expected to open in late November but has been delayed by the pace of renovation works at the Victoria Palace Theatre.

Theater owner and “hamilton” co-producer Cameron Mackintosh said restoring the historic building has taken more time than expected. he said he is “sorry” to change the performance schedule.

Producer Jeffrey Seller said patrons with tickets to shows that have been cancelled will be accommodated on other dates as quickly as possible.

The play about Alexander hamilton, one of the founders

Rachelle Ann Go with fiancé Martin Spies

of the United States, has drawn wide acclaim in America.

The announcement of the delay coincides with the

Photo from Instagram/@gorachelleann

engagement of “hamilton” star Rachelle Ann Go to New York-based businessman Martin Spies. (Philstar.com)

How Gerald Anderson copes...

From Page SF3

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One can only wonder how one man is able to do all these and excel at the same time. “i think the key here is balance. Balance your time, balance your diet, and balance your exercise. That’s why i am so thankful to Bargn Pharmaceuticals, because CosmoCee is really helping me maintain overall wellness and health so that i can do all the things i love,” he said.

Taking the recommended dose of twice daily, Anderson evokes great physique, youthful glow coupled with disarming

smile. This of course, is on top of leading healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.

“Gerald is the perfect personification of the brand’s ideals — youthfulness, health, and vigor, the perfect embodiment of the brand. i think, among the roster of great young actors in the industry today, Gerald is one of the few who really value total, holistic health and wellness. it’s very evident in the way he makes time for fitness even with his busy schedule,” Bargn co-founder Niño Bautista said on the renewal of the actor’s contract as brand

ambassador. “it’s non-acidic, which makes it safer for everyone, and as i have experienced the longest time, it boosts the immune system, provides extra energy, vitality and even helps maintain good skin elasticity,” Anderson guaranteed.

Besides keeping healthy, Anderson said that discipline also taught him about the allimportant ability of time-management.

“When you’ve got the energy, you’ll have time for everything—even love,” he teased in ending. (ManilaTimes.net)

How Marian finally achieved entertainment SF5 the best version of herself John Lloyd Cruz spends weekend with Ellen adarna The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - September 15, 2017

by Edmund

SilvEStrE Philstar.com

Having played Darna, Super inday, nieves the engkanto slayer, amaya and Kung Fu Diva, Marian Rivera has the distinction of portraying the most number of superheroine roles in Philippine television and cinema. and just when she thought she’s done saving the world with her supernatural powers, she’s back on gMa Telebabad primetime block via the action-fantasy series “Super Ma’am.”

Yes, the Kapuso primetime queen is set to rule one’s nightly viewing habits starting Sept.

Marian Rivera with husband Dingdong Dantes and their daughter Zia in Paris.

18 as Minerva Henerala, the Photo from Instagram/@marianrivera kind-hearted and passionate high changed,” she noted. “i don’t school teacher bent on helping everyone preoccupied and the easily get affected by bashings wayward students and defending world besieged with problems, anymore. i learned to choose my them from the Tamawos, Pinoy we forget to talk to our children battles. There are times when you folklore creatures who suck youth and ask them if they have probjust have to stay quiet because and vitality off of children. lems or something.” the truth will eventually come More than the spectacular and every teacher or parent out.” effects, stunts and fight scenes, can accomplish wondrous things “The social media is also a what attracted Marian to the proj- even without the aid of superbig factor because i have my ect helmed by La Madridejos is powers, she added matter-ofown instagram account where its social relevance and the moral factly. people see the other side of me lessons it will impart on students, “This may sound a cliché but off camera,” she said, “how i am teachers and parents. what the world really needs now at home as a wife, as a mother, as “i want the show to be an is love,” Marian said. “There’s a friend.” eye-opener for students to aptoo much hatred around. Even Marian’s manager Rams preciate the sacrifices of their in social media, you can sense it.

David said the actress’ positive teachers and vice versa,” said The bashings are too much and image has also turned her into a Marian in a one-on-one with you can only wonder where the formidable product endorser. She The Philippine Star at Rockwell’s anger is coming from. With love is currently endorsing at least 18 grace Park Restaurant. “This is comes respect, understanding, popular products that attest to for all teachers who have dediharmony.” her high trust rating as a brand cated their lives educating chilEver since the Madrid-born ambassador. dren and treating them as their and La Salle-educated actress isn’t she afraid of someday own. i also want to do projects was thrust into stardom exactly a giving up her throne as her that will make my daughter Zia year ago via the Filipino adaptaproud of me when she watches tion of the hit Mexican telenovela network’s beloved queen? We them.”

Marimar, not a few in the industry asked her.

“Someday i will also get old among other things, Super have noticed how she has and i have to give way to other Ma’am addresses — without matured immensely both as an stars,” said Marian, who suddenly being preachy — disruptive and actress and as a person. turned serious. “i’m fully aware of misbehaving kids who give teachgone are the days when the that reality. it’s all about accepers a lot of stress and hard time three-time FHM’s sexiest fretance. What is clear to me is that managing the class and impede quently landed in hot water over showbiz shouldn’t be my life that the learning of the other stuissues she’d now rather take with when my career slows down or dents. Super Ma’am’s alter ego, a grain of salt. comes to an end, my life will end Miss Henerala, endures bullies “We all believe the turnas well.” and disrespectful students until ing point was the arrival of her “That queen tag is just a she wins them over. daughter Zia,” a gMa insider label,” she continued. “What in one of Marian’s favorite told The Star. “Zia is constantly really matters is how i was as an episodes, she recalled Miss giving Mrs. Dingdong Dantes joy actor and as a person. What have Henerala befriending an unruly and peace and inspiration that you done for others? How many student who comes from a helped her become the best verlives have you touched? Have broken family. it turns out the boy sion of herself.” you made a difference in this life? merely needs somebody to talk She has acknowledged that at the end of it all, those are the to who will listen and won’t judge her now two-year-old girl has things that will matter.” him, she said. pushed her to become a super “i always believe that what “Sometimes it’s only necesmom and taught her to prioritize you sow, you reap,” Marian sary that the lines of communica- things. added with a wide smile. “and tion are open to understand why “When i got married and if the fruits are sweet, it means a student behaves this or that became a wife and mother, my way,” Marian pointed out. “With priorities and perspective on life you’re doing the right thing.”

by Jan

milo SEvEro Philstar.com

THEiR photos and videos together are all over the internet, but Kapamilya actor John Lloyd Cruz still chooses to remain silent on the romantic issue involving him with “Home Sweetie Home” co-star Ellen adarna.

John Lloyd, or JLC, still refuses to answer questions from the media that fuels more the speculations that there is really something special between the two.

“Masyadong personal namang ‘yung tanong mo. Ayoko nang pag-usapan. Iba na lang,” the versatile actor told Philstar. com during the recent launch of his Magic Crackers app. in a recent article of Philstar.com, Ellen said she is willing to be the next “Basha” of “Popoy,” characters from John Lloyd’s timeless 2007 movie “One More Chance.” after the success of his recent movie with “Popstar Royalty” Sarah geronimo, John Lloyd continues to be busy with his craft and is now a big

John Lloyd Cruz and Ellen Adarna

part of a mobile app from his long-time product endorsement Magic Flakes.

During the #MagicMoments event recently at the Trinoma activity Center, Jack n’ Jill, together with the blockbuster actor, launched the mobile app aims to give users a “kilig” function where videos of John Lloyd appear as if you and him are communicating. “in line with our effort to go digital, we launched the mobile app to give Filipinos a wonderful opportunity,” said

Photos from Instagram/@maria.elle.adarna

brand representative Bixie Sese. after the event, John Lloyd bonded with fans as he treated 13 raffle winners to a special dinner date. after this date, did he go on a date with Ellen, too? as seen in these instagram photos, JLC and Ellen were together in Cebu just last weekend.

Ellen’s friends, who were with JLC and Ellen in Cebu, posted even sweeter photos of the two on instagram.

Julie Anne San Jose admits crash dieting to get new bod aFTER winning in her #Relationshipgoals with boyfriend Benjamin alves, Julie anne San Jose is now into achieving her #Fitnessgoals.

Fans have been noticing a sexier and a more daring Julie anne in her social media photos.

From a wholesome teen, the singer has indeed come of age. in a recent interview with Philstar.com for Cream Silk, the star confessed that she crashed diet to get the body she wants. “i used to work out a lot. i crashed diet for a week and lost 10 to 15 pounds,” Julie anne confessed.

Researches, such as those recently published in Cnn, frown upon crash dieting as it

can allegedly: • Slow down metabolism that could trigger future weight gain • Deprive body of essential nutrients • Can weaken the immune system • increase risk of dehydration, cardiac stress and heart palpitations But according to Julie anne, she did not experience negative effects like those because though she gave up rice for at least a week, she substituted it with healthy picks like vegetables, fish and fruits. “i only had around 800 calories a day and ate only once in a day,” bared the star, who

Julie Anne San Jose Photo from Instagram/@myjaps

complemented her diet plan with a workout every late afternoon.

Besides her body, her vocals are also into workout mode as she eyes to come up with a new album for the year. For the meantime, she is busy co-hosting and performing for gMa shows like “Sunday Pinasaya” and “Pepito Manoloto.” (Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo/Philstar.com)

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