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South China Sea, BuSineSS opportunitieS take Center Stage at uS-aSean Summit

World leaders create measures to boost ASEAN economies by

Allyson escobAr AJPress

the first-ever two-day summit with President Barack obama and 10 southeast Asian leaders kicked off on monday, feb. 15 at the Annenberg retreat at sunnylands in rancho mirage, California. the standalone meeting between the White house and leaders of the Association of southeast Asian Nations (AseAN) is meant to be a crucial step in the Us effort to “rebalance” for-

eign policy toward the Asia-Pacific, to improve relations with southeast Asian allies, and to address key issues including maritime security, Islamic state extremists, and the south China sea. the 10-nation axis (the world’s seventh largest economy) is also crucial for the growth of many American companies, including Us firms, who are the largest foreign direct investors in PAGE A2

parties call for mutual respect, peace in the region

by Agnes

constAnte AJPress

After a day of discussions on economic issues and trade, the Association of southeast Asian Nations (AseAN) switched gears on tuesday, feb. 16, by working toward reaching a common stance on territorial disputes in the south

DATELINE

China sea. “the United states and AseAN are reaffirming our strong commitment to a regional order where international rules and norms and the rights of all nations, large and small, are upheld,” Us President Barack obama said at the end of the summit, according to reuters.

“We discussed the need for tangible steps in the south China sea to lower tensions including a halt to further reclamation, new construction and militarization of disputed areas,” the president said.

Washington and AseAN members agreed that territorial disPAGE A2

pacquiao under fire for homophobic statements

USA

by AJpress

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

uS deports Filipino human rights violator A fILIPINo man who admitted to conducting surveillance for a law enforcement task force in the Philippines linked to the disappearance of a number of opposition politicians was deported to the Philippines last week by Us Immigration and Customs enforcement (ICe), according to a news release Regor Cadag Aguilar from the agency. regor Cadag Aguilar, 42, was escorted by ICe enforcement and removal operations

Manny Pacquiao AJPress photo by Robert Macabagdal

PAGE A4

BoXING champ manny Pacquiao apologized on tuesday, feb. 16 after he said that those who are in same-sex relationships are “worse than animals.”

In a recent interview with tV5 network, Pacquiao — who is running for senate under the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) — was asked to share his views on same-sex marriage.

“It’s just common sense. have you seen any animal having male-to-male or female-to-female relations?” Pacquiao, who currently serves as a congressman for the sarangani province, said in tagalog.

he went on to say “if you have male-tomale or female-to-female [relationships], then people are worse than animals.” responding to the backlash, Pacquiao issued an apology on social media for his remarks, saying he was “just telling the truth of what the Bible says.” he, however, said his stance on same-sex marriage remains unchanged.

“I’m sorry for hurting people by comparing homosexuals to animals. Please forgive me for those I’ve hurt. I still stand on my belief that I’m against same-sex marriage because of what the Bible says, but I’m not condemning LGBt. I love you all with the love of the Lord. God Bless you all and I’m praying for you,” he said

in a video posted to facebook.

Reactions Pacquiao was widely criticized by members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBt) community and various personalities.

In a series of tweets, Comedian Vice Ganda highlighted Pacquiao’s extramarital affairs and called him a “false prophet.”

“Ang pagpatol sa parehong kasarian ay masahol pa sa hayup? e ang pakikiapid habang ika’y may asawa anung kababuyan ito? Pakisagot, manny! (To engage in sexual relations with the same gender is worse than animals? Then PAGE A3

marcos, escudero share top Binay: Character assassination won’t distract me spot for Vp in latest survey

by Helen

Flores Philstar.com

Youth, loyalists enable Marcos improve standing

the NAmesAKe son of the late dictator ferdinand marcos is PAGE A3 counting on millennials and remnants of his father’s loyalists in his attempt to take back his family to within a heartbeat of malacañang 30 years after they were kicked out in a popular uprising. sen. ferdinand “Bongbong” marcos has finally caught up with sen. francis escudero in the latest popularity survey conducted by the A fILIPINA social Weather stations (sWs), transient was ar- released monday, feb. 15, sharing rested on monday, feb. 15 for reportedly abandoning her newborn baby in a subway restroom in West Covina, California. surveillance video released by Mary Grace Trinidad’s booking photo from a previous arrest the West Covina Departon Jan. 3, courtesy of the West Police Covina Police Department. ment shows mary Grace trinidad enter the subway sandwich shop at 8:07 am on monday, february 15. After getting a cup from an employee at the register,

Filipina arrested for abandoning newborn in West Covina, Calif.

President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with US President Barack Obama and fellow ASEAN leaders for a Family Photo during the Special USASEAN Summit at the Sunnylands Garden and Center in Rancho Mirage. In the photo (L-R) ASEAN’s Secretary General Le Luong Minh; Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah; Cambodia Prime Minister Hun Sen; Indonesia President Joko Widodo; Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Razak; Laos President Choummaly Sayasone; President Obama; President Aquino; Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong; Thailand Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha; Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung; and Myanmar Vice President Nyan Tun. Malacañang photo by Gil Nartea

lives of the poor and will not be distracted by name-calling mANILA—Vice President Je- from administration allies, his jomar Binay will remain focused campaign spokesman said. on his commitment to uplift the rico Quicho made the state-

ment after presidential spokesperson edwin Lacierda called Binay, standard bearer of the United Nationalist Alliance PAGE A4

the top spot in the vice presidential race in the may 9 elections, each getting the nod of 26 percent of the respondents.

Analysts said the dictator’s legacy and possible ascent to power of his son were emerging as among this election’s top campaign issues. “the bulk of the electorate, particularly the millennials, will likely vote for him because of his competence, ample executive and PAGE A3

Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos has finally caught up with Sen. Francis Escudero in the latest popularity survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), released on Monday, Feb. 15.

Inquirer.net photo

United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) standard-bearer Jejomar Binay (third, from left) and his entire slate are endorsed by One Cebu, a party led by its gubernatorial candidate Winston Garcia, in ceremonies launching the UNA-One Cebu alliance in Cebu City.

Inquirer.net photo by Tonee Despojo

Supreme Court justices clash over poe’s citizenship case by tetcH

torres-tupAs Inquirer.net

Jesusa sonora-Poe or susan roces?

CAN an adopted child like Chief Justice maria Lourdes senator Grace Poe declare in sereno and senior Associate legal documents that she was Justice Antonio Carpio have “born to” ronald Allan Kelly opposing views.

Poe or fernando Poe Jr. and for Carpio, under the Dual

Citizenship Law, an applicant is required to declare the names of his or her biological parents.

“If you mention a name that is not your biological father, PAGE A4

A

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february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL

From The FronT

Page

Parties call for mutual respect, peace... World leaders create business...

PAGE A1

putes in the region should be resolved peacefully and through legal means, according to Reuters. However, both parties did not reach a common stance on the conflict.

In a joint statement, the US and ASEAN restated principles of cooperation between the two, such as “mutual respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, equal-

ity and political independence of all nations ‌ and a shared commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes.�

The Philippines is among nations with claims at stake, along with others including Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam.

On Tuesday, Vietnam’s prime minister called on the US for a greater role in island-building and preventing militarization in the

Sea, the government said, according to Reuters.

Premier Nguyen Tan Dung on Monday, suggested that the US uses a stronger voice and “more practical and more efficient actions,� Reuters reported.

But some ASEAN members, including Cambodia and Laos, have close economic ties to China.

China has accused the United States of looking for maritime hegemony in Asia. “The United States is not and will never be a spokesman for an independent organization like ASEAN on any issue. It is time for sober-minded ASEAN nations to distance themselves from U.S. interference,� read a report by Chinese news agency Xinhua. “It is China’s unswerving stance that the disputes over the South China Sea should be settled through direct one-on-one negotiations and consultations between China and the countries concerned,� according to the same report by the agency.

However, Washington claims its interest in the disputed region is preserving freedom of navigation, Reuters reported.

Freedom of navigation “must be upheld, and unlawful commerce should not be impeded,â€? Obama said, adding that the US would “continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, and ‌ support the right of all countries to do the same.â€?

PAGE A1

the ASEAN region--America’s fourth largest export market-and contribute over half a million jobs in the US, reported Al Jazeera. It is the first summit meeting held on US soil.

Other nations’ heads of government present at the summit included presidents from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and the Philippines.

President Benigno Aquino III and members of his Cabinet arrived in California on Monday morning for a brief visit.

They were welcomed at the airport by a senior protocol representative from the US State Department; Jose Cuisia Jr., Philippine Ambassador to the US; and Consulate General Leo Herrera-Lim. The Philippine delegation consists of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Trade Secretary Adrian Cristobal Jr., Economic Planning Secretary Emmanuel Esguerra, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras and Climate Change Commissioner Emmanuel de Guzman, reported The Philippine Star.

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The first retreat session of the ASEAN-US Summit was themed, “Promoting an Innovative, Entrepreneurial ASEAN Economic Community.� “Early in my presidency, I decided that the United States, as a Pacific nation, would rebalance our foreign policy and play a larger and long-term role in the Asia Pacific. And this has included engagement with Southeast Asia and ASEAN, which is central to the region’s peace and prosperity, and to our shared goal of building a regional order where all nations play by the same rules,� Obama greeted leaders in his opening remarks. “This summit marks our seventh meeting. At your invitation, the United States joined the East Asia Summit, and together we’ve made it the region’s leading forum for addressing political and security challenges.�

Obama also highlighted accomplishments of the USASEAN meetings: forging a new Strategic Partnership, increasing trade and economic partnerships, the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative, and boosting overall trade between the US and ASEAN nations. “Our sustained engagement is delivering concrete results that benefit all of us--momentum that we can build on here at this summit,� he said. “Here, we can advance our shared vision of a regional order where international rules and norms, including freedom of navigation, are upheld, and where disputes are resolved through peaceful legal means.�

The first day’s touched on the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a free-trade deal signed

by Obama earlier this month, and currently includes four of the ASEAN nations with more on the way, according to US Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. The controversial TPP is also intended to further reduce barriers to trade, but has prompted outcry over “restrictive copyright language and expanded rights of corporations to sue nations whose regulations get in the way of profits,� reported The Desert Sun. The second retreat session on the following day revolved around “Protecting Peace,

Prosperity, and Security in the Asia-Pacific.�

China’s growing boldness and influence in the region has concerned ASEAN leaders, including the Philippines and Vietnam, which are both involved in territorial disputes and want the US’s support for security.

The lack of consensus over Chinese policy currently divides ASEAN’s member nations, who all want to handle the China situation differently without angering leaders.

On Day 2 of the summit, leaders met for a working session, where Pres. Obama was seated between representatives from Singapore and the Philippines. The result of an hours-long meeting included a joint US-ASEAN statement, the “Sunnylands Declaration,� which calls for “Mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, equality and political independence of all nations by firmly upholding the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, the ASEAN Charter and international law.�

A new initiative, the USASEAN Connect, was also announced by Obama. The US president said the “network of hubs� is meant to help connect business entrepreneurs and international investors. “I believe this summit has put US-ASEAN on a new trajectory that will carry us to greater heights in the decade ahead,�

Obama told reporters on Tuesday at the summit’s end.

After the summit, Aquino was scheduled to be in Los Angeles for a working visit, where his activities included addressing the Los Angeles World Affairs Council at the Intercontinental Hotel, receiving an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree at Loyola Marymount University, and meeting with the top executives of three big LA-based companies (Walt Disney International, Western Digital Corporation, and AECOM’s Enterprise Growth Solutions). “Our kababayans in the US and I are looking forward to welcoming him once more to the United States. We’d like to wish him a successful visit,�

Cuisia told Radio Television MalacaĂąang.

Dateline USa

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL •fEbRUARy 18-24, 2016

Pacquiao under fire for homophobic... US deports Filipino human rights...

PAGE A1 what do you call sleeping with other women while you’re still married? Please answer, Manny!),” Vice Ganda wrote.

Though Vice Ganda accepted Pacquiao’s apology, he said “but I will still not vote for him. Manny for boxing not for Senate.”

Singer Aiza Seguerra, who identifies as transgender, slammed Pacquiao as “an ignorant, bigoted hypocrite.”

“You might’ve done our country proud but with your statement, you just showed the whole country why we shouldn’t vote for you,” Seguerra said in an Instagram post, adding “You made me lose all respect that I had for you, Mr. Pacquiao.”

Ladlad, a Filipino organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Filipinos, advised Filipinos not to vote for Pacquiao, as his statement “betrays a shallow understanding of sexual orientation and gender identity, nay, even the very basics of science.”

“To say that animals are better because males of the species sniff and have sex only with females of the species is to be ignorant of the fact that homosexuality is found in all forms of creation—from plants to animals, and yes, even to people,” the group’s statement read.

Actress Lea Salonga wrote on Facebook, “I’m just going to leave this right here. Homosexuality is found in over 450 species, homophobia is found in only one. Which one seems unnatural now?”

Hollywood celebrity blogger and TV personality Perez Hilton also slammed the boxer for his “horrific” and “barbaric” comments.

“Look, if your religious beliefs prevent you from accepting samesex marriage, that’s on you. That’s YOUR idea of propriety,” Hilton wrote in a blog post. “But there’s absolutely no call to demonize and denigrate gay people by comparing them to animals just because their love is something YOU’RE unable to accept.”

Undefeated boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. — whom Pacquiao lost to last May — said “we should let people live their lives the way they want to live their lives. To each his own,” according to TMZ Sports.

Meanwhile, Vice President and presidential aspirant Jejomar Binay defended Pacquiao, saying PAGE A4

Perez Hilton

Vice Ganda

PAGE A1 (ERO) and arrived in Manila midday Wednesday, Feb. 10, Pacific Standard Time. His repatriation follows his arrest on Jan. 5, 2015 in Union City in Northern California.

Aguilar originally entered the United States on a visitor’s visa 15 years ago and overstayed, which led him to be placed in removal proceedings.

He admitted that from 1998 to 2001, he served as a surveillance agent for a law enforcement task force in the Philippines that targeted rival political figures, according to the ICE news release.

He claimed he was unaware of the task force’s illegal activities

in that time period, but testified that one of his surveillance targets disappeared and was assumed dead.

Aguilar further testified that his superiors told him members of the task force depended on his surveillance to abduct and murder a political figure, and that he heard superiors instruct task force members to torture abducted individuals, according to the agency’s release.

“This day has been in the making for more than a decade, but it should leave no question about ICE’s resolve to hold human rights violators accountable for their actions,” ICE Deputy Director Daniel Ragsdale said in a release. “The

successful outcome of this case is owing to the outstanding work

by ICE attorneys and ERO officers who were determined to see justice served. We simply won’t stand by and allow the U.S. to serve as a safe haven for those whose actions have caused incalculable harm to others.”

Aguilar was ordered to be removed in 2010 by a San Francisco judge, after the exhaustion of all his appeals.

Since fiscal year 2004, the ICE has arrested more than 360 individuals for human rights-related violations under various criminal and/or immigration statutes, according to the agency’s news release. (Agnes Constante/AJPress)

PAGE A1 legislative experience as well as youthful vigor and incisive posture in addressing the challenges facing the nation,” said National Unity Party secretary general Reginald Velasco.

Velasco said another key demographic supporting Marcos was his father’s loyalists and those born and raised during the Marcos years who believe the 1970s were the “golden years of the Philippines” in contrast to claims of leftist and human rights groups.

“Bongbong’s victory will hinge on these twin groups that don’t really put much weight on the ‘sins of the past’ committed by the Marcos regime,” Velasco said.

Hitler and Marcos Former Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello agreed that Marcos was a catalyst to unite his father’s forces.

“Hitler and (deposed President) Marcos came to power through democratic elections. But are we exaggerating? I don’t think so.

The Marcos revanchists are everywhere, in the agencies, in the armed forces, in the political dynasties. They are now fragmented but a Bongbong presidency would unite them to possibly serve as base for a presidential coup as in 1972,” Bello said.

He called Marcos’ rise in the survey a “disturbing trend,” which had changed the complexion of the 2016 elections as it made the fight for the vice presidency as important as the presidency.

“It would be the height of irony if Marcos would become Vice President on the 30th anniversary of the Edsa Republic. But it would underline the great failure of the Edsa system: the way its promise

was strangled by traditional elite politics,” Bello said.

The real deal In the latest SWS survey, Marcos, with 26 percent, gained 1 point in the Feb. 5-7 survey from last month, while Escudero’s rating fell 2 points from 28 percent in January to 26 percent.

Following them were Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, who both gained 2 points between January and February.

Robredo’s rating was up from 17 percent to 19 percent, while Cayetano’s rating rose from 14 percent to 16 percent.

Sen. Gringo Honasan had 6 percent, down from 8 percent, and Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV had 5 percent, up from 3 percent.

In a brief statement, Marcos said: “Every survey result keeps us inspired to work harder in the campaign. But, as I have always said, the real survey will be on May 9, 2016, and that has been our focus as we continue to persevere in bringing our platform of unity to every part of the country.”

On target Escudero remained upbeat. “It only means we have to work harder, and given our limited resources, find innovative yet not so expensive ways to reach out to more people with our message of hope, honesty and progress for our country,” he said in a text message.

Robredo expressed elation: “We’re right on target. After all, I have only been going around for three months while my rivals have been doing it for three years,” she said in a statement.

Cayetano, who was campaigning in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental province, said: “The election is still

far away. What’s important is that we are slowly but surely climbing up.”

Kabataan Rep. Terry Ridon explained why people who were born after Marcos’ ouster would fall for Bongbong.

“It is easy for millennials to pine for a time they never experienced but one only needs to listen to the truth-telling of tens of thousands of victims of the dictatorship to realize that martial law was no walk in the park. In fact, if the millennials were alive during the dictatorship, they would be the first to call out the Marcoses for their opulence and excesses, similar to what social media does now against the high and mighty among us,” Ridon said.

Failure of Edsa ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio said the revival of the political fortunes of the Marcos dynasty was the price the present generation must pay for the failure of postEdsa administrations to hold the Marcoses accountable for wholesale plunder and human rights violations.

“I personally don’t believe he’ll win. The challenge is to use the campaign period as an opportunity to educate the electorate and the public on the true legacy of the Marcos dictatorship,” said Tinio.

Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Zarate said it would be a sad day for the country if the Marcoses would return to power without having atoned and accounted for “their sins, bloody excesses and plunder of the government coffers during the reign of the dictatorship.” (With reports from Jeannette I. Andrade and Marlon Ramos, in Manila, and Jigger J. Jerusalem, Inquirer Mindanao)

Nike dumps Pacquiao as Marcos, Escudero share top spot... endorser after insulting comments toward gays

by MoMar

G. Visaya

AJPress

THE backlash has started.

Nike on Wednesday announced that it has dropped Manny Pacquiao as an endorser after the boxer remarked that people who engage in same sex relationships are worse than animals.

“We find Manny Pacquiao’s comments abhorrent,” Nike said in a statement, according to ESPN. “Nike strongly opposes discrimination of any kind and has a long history of supporting and standing up for the rights of the LGBT community.”

Pacquiao’s controversial interview with TV5 became viral online on Monday. The issue was picked up by local and international press.

Filipino performers Aiza Seguerra and Vice Ganda issued their own statements castigating Pacquiao calling him a ”bigot” and a “false prophet”. TV host and talent manager Boy Abunda also delivered a stinging rebuke on his late night show on ABS-CBN saying that Pacquiao “crossed the line”.

On Tuesday, Feb. 16, Pacquiao took to social media and posted an apology through his Instagram account.

When Filipino-American Aries de la Cruz saw the apology, he went online and started a petition asking Nike to drop Pacquiao as an endorser.

“I believe apologies mean nothing without actions and consequences, and a plan for addressing how the contrite person will make things right with those he hurt,” de la Cruz told the Asian Journal.

“Everyone has the right to have religious, social and cultural beliefs, but if you are a political leader and decision maker that is different because you have a duty to represent all your constituents, not just the views of a select few.”

In a little over 24 hours, the petition has generated more than four thousand signatures. Online and mainstream news outlets have also picked up the news. TMZ reported that Nike is “preparing to cut ties with boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao after his last round of anti-gay comments.”

New York City-based LGBT activist and graphic designer Scott Wooledge has also launched an online campaign asking the brands who have Pacquiao as an endorser to drop him.

He posted a tweet on Tuesday saying that Pacquiao speaks for these brands - Nike, Footlocker, Wonderful Pistachios and Nestle – and earned $12M in 2015 as face of these companies.

“I’m not surprised at all that the message of the petition that companies like Nike should not provide a platform for Cong. Manny PAGE A4

A

A

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february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL

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Filipina arrested for abandoning newborn...

PAGE A1 Trinidad appeared to fill the cup and then made her way to the restroom.

The 37-year-old Filipina stayed inside the restroom for 10 minutes and left the establishment through its front doors. A customer said that he saw Trinidad leave, dripping a trail of blood, and informed an employee.

Witnesses heard cries from the restroom and saw an umbilical cord hanging out of the toilet. A newborn baby boy was found sitting upright, half-submerged in the toilet.

“They saw an umbilical cord leading into the toilet. When they looked inside the toilet they found the baby,” West Covina Police Spokesman Rudy Lopez said.

According to reports, Trinidad gave birth in the restroom and left the placenta in the trash can.

Following the discovery, a Subway employee called 911,

describing the cries from the newborn and blood left by the mother.

“We tried to keep her in and she just walked out. There’s a crying baby in the restroom,” a female employee told a dispatcher.

Subway employees and customers tended to the newborn until paramedics arrived on the scene and rushed the baby to Queen of the Valley Hospital.

The baby was in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care and remains in critical condition, as of press time. He is expected to survive.

Police found Trinidad nearby at the Pep Boys Auto Parts & Service shop. She was later taken to the hospital for treatment, and will be booked on suspicion of attempted murder and child abandonment once released. Lopez said bail will be set at $2 million.

Trinidad also has a $30,000 narcotics-related warrant out-

standing for her arrest. She was arrested on Jan. 3 for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to police records.

The police department circulated Trinidad’s booking photo from the previous arrest to “bring more awareness to the Safe Surrender Baby Law,” which allows parents or persons with lawful custody to safely surrender the infant to any fire station or hospital within 72 hours of birth, with no questions asked.

The sandwich shop is located in a Filipino-concentrated shopping center, where employees of various businesses said Trinidad has been a local transient for years. She frequently begged for food and money in the area.

“I’ve done this for 36 years. I thought I had seen everything,” Lopez said. “I have no words to describe how I’m feeling about this.” (Christina M. Oriel/AJPress)

Nike dumps Pacquiao as endorser...

PAGE A3 Pacquiao’s anti-gay positions has resonated with so many Filipinos all over the world, gay and straight,” de la Cruz added.

Born in Manila and raised in Bacolod City, the 30-year-old de la Cruz is a graduate student of anthropology at Rutgers University in New Jersey. Like many Filipinos, de la Cruz was proud of Pacquiao’s achievements on the ring.

“In the past, his prowess in the ring and his many victories has made me proud to be a Filipino, but being a hero means nothing if one does not use that platform to unite the people he is supposed to represent,” he shared. “As a Filipino with a large global platform, Pacquiao has a tremendous opportunity to heal with his words and not harm or hurt.”

But much more than that, de la Cruz says Pacquiao’s words

“are not merely opinions but have material and legal consequences for the LGBT Filipinos who must face oppression each time they leave their homes.”

“His opinions are much more than opinions when he has chosen to sponsor legislation in the past that has restricted the rights of our gay and lesbian Filipino friends and neighbors,” dela Cruz continued. “That is why an apology is not enough.”

Pacquiao under...

PAGE A3

CLINTON SUPPORTERS. Members of Fil-Ams for Hillary, and the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Group held a phone banking event to encourage Hillary Clinton supporters to go caucus on Saturday, Feb. 20. The gathering was held at Chef Zen’s Restaurant on Buffalo and Flamingo, where Chef Zen was closed down for the Hillary Phone Banking Night. Shown in the pictures are Margie Llorente Gonzales, president of the AAPI Democratic Caucus, Kate Recto of Fil Ams for Hillary, Cindy delos Santos, Rossana Ang, Joan Vinuya Gainey, Jun Medina, Bobby Doble, Jo Beck, Susan Rowland, Marissa Sharpe and other members. Stephanie and Cheska from the Hillary campaign team of Nevada also joined them.

Photos by Bobet Torres

Supreme Court justices clash over...

PAGE A1 that is a falsity and it is very material,” Carpio said.

Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Arthur Lim agreed with Carpio that such omission is considered misrepresentation.

“It is material representation which is false,” Lim said.

When asked by Carpio what is the effect of such misrepresentation on the legal documents of Poe, Lim said such documents, including the certificate of candidacy are “void ab initio” (void from the beginning).

Sereno, however asked “are you now saying she [Poe] cannot use the facts issued by the Civil Registrar itself?”

“Imagine she will be disabled under all grounds,” Sereno said pointing out that if Poe lies by indicating that her parents are Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces “ she will have no claim whatsoever, no right whatsoever.”

the public should understand where Pacquiao is coming from.

“Tanong niyo na lang kung anong explanation ni Cong. Pacquiao. Pero we have to go back who is Manny Pacquiao now.

Maka-Diyos na maka-Diyos si Manny Pacquiao (Just ask for Cong. Pacquiao’s explanation.

But we have to go back to who is Manny Pacquiao now. God-fearing, Manny Pacquiao is very Godfearing),” Binay said.

Despite Pacquiao’s controversial remarks and continuous absence in Congress, he remains a popular candidate for a Senate PAGE A1 seat.

He will reportedly hit the ring (UNA), an “expert in corruption.” for the last time on April 9 against “The Vice President will not be Timothy Bradley in Las Vegas. He distracted by petty name-calling is expected to retire and focus on from the ‘unpresidential’ spokeshis political career. person. No amount of character assassination will stop the Vice President from pushing for his pro-poor agenda,” Quicho said in a statement.

He said the Vice President would focus on delivering his message that poverty must be addressed immediately, and quality education and proper healthcare must be made available to the people.

“Makati speaks for itself,” Quicho said.

Binay, who served as Makati mayor for more than two decades, said he has made the city the richest in the country.

“The problem with Sec. Lacierda is he always stays in his air-conditioned office. That’s why he’s blind

Poe, a foundling was found abandoned in the church in Jaro, Iloilo in 1968. She was adopted by the celebrity couple. The adoption decree was issued in 1974.

The Comelec cancelled Poe’s certificate of candidacy on questions of her citizenship.

Petitioners including former Senator Francisco Tatad, former University of the East Dean Amado Valdez, Dr. Antonio Contreras said Poe cannot fulfill one of the basic qualifications to run for presidency which is being a natural born Filipino citizen because her parents were unknown.

Poe took the case to the Supreme Court, questioning the Comelec’s ruling.

Carpio also reiterated that before a foundling certificate is issued, a foundling, like Poe has to go through a process through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Undergoing a process, means the foundling, while considered a Filipino citizen

is naturalized.

It was Carpio’s position that a natural born citizen need not go through a process before a citizenship is accorded to a person.

But Sereno said “foundlings do not perform an act to register themselves as foundling.”

However, Associate Justice Jose Perez has a different take on the matter.

He said the only thing that they are sure now is that the matter of the citizenship of a foundling remains undecided.

“It is an undecided proposition up to this moment,” Perez said.

“In other words, there is no truth to measure whether there was misrepresentation or not,” he added.

The high court has already terminated the oral argument and ordered the parties to simultaneously submit their memoranda by Monday.

After the submission of memoranda, the case is deemed submitted for resolution.

Binay: Character assassination won’t... and insensitive to the plight of others. He doesn’t believe that there are people who remain in poverty because of their heartless administration,” Quicho said in Filipino.

He said the Vice President would continue and expand the government’s conditional cash transfer program or the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) if he gets elected.

“The Vice President will make sure that the 4Ps program will be continued, improved and expanded to include senior citizens aged 6064,” he said.

During UNA’s proclamation rally in Mandaluyong City on Feb. 9, Binay vowed to exempt workers, who receive a monthly salary of P30,000 and below, from paying income taxes.

Lacierda has said the Vice President should “walk the talk” after the Binay camp accused the Aquino

administration of using the people’s money to bribe village officials.

“I suppose that’s how VP intends to govern, to be bribed and to bribe.

That’s why he is the expert in corruption, and a joker when he talks about good governance,” he said.

“When he talks about FOI (Freedom of Information), nobody believes him because he cannot even produce his own private secretary for many years, his financial adviser for many years,” Lacierda said, referring to Eduviges “Ebeng” Baloloy and Gerardo Limlingan, who are still missing.

Binay has said he does not know the whereabouts of his former aides.

Awkward Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez appeared to be thrust into an awkward situation during Binay’s visit at the city hall on Monday night.

Olivarez, a member of the ruling Liberal Party (LP), led city government employees in welcoming the Vice President who arrived at around 6 p.m. for a short program.

After a brief interaction with Binay, Olivarez distanced himself as the Vice President proceeded to the hall where the program was to be held.

Oivares later told reporters he would support LP standard-bearer Manuel Roxas II, but he said everyone is welcome in the city.

Binay is the standard-bearer of the opposition United Nationalist Alliance (UNA).

The short program, attended

by Binay’s ally Parañaque Rep. Gus Tambunting, started without Olivarez.

The mayor only went to the table and sat beside Binay upon the prodding of Parañaque councilor Alma Moreno, who is running for senator under the UNA slate.

Binay and Olivarez were seen talking before the Vice President delivered his speech.

Olivarez listened as Binay presented his platform to city hall employees. He did not react when the Vice President criticized the administration’s policy, particularly on under-spending, which he said highlighted the lack of management skills by those in Malacañang.

Binay hit the LP members whom he said are using government workers to spread rumors against him.

At one point, he praised Olivarez and noted his undisputed bid for re-election this year.

The mayor responded with a smile amid cheers from the employees.

The mayor immediately left after the program, leaving the Vice President who stayed behind to pose for photos.

Olivarez said it was an honor to welcome the Vice President at the city hall.

However, as a member of the ruling party, he said he would endorse Roxas.

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • fEbRUARy 18-24, 2016

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AMID REPORTS OF MISSILE DEPLOYMENT

Palace: Elections not a hindrance to PH’s focus on South China Sea row

by YuJi VinCenT GonzAleS Inquirer.net

Amid rising tensions in the resource-rich West Philippine Sea, Malacañang on Wednesday, Feb. 17 said preparations for the upcoming national elections will not be a hindrance to the government’s monitoring and addressing of regional security issues.

Asked if the Philippines would be in a “sensitive” or “precarious” situation amid poll preparations, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the country’s foreign policy has always been intact and inclusive, which “ensure the community of nations

rally behind us in our support for not exacerbating tensions in the South China Sea.” “The entire community of nations are behind us in this, in our advocacy that we should keep the South China Sea as peaceful as it should be, and therefore, I don’t see anyone with the exception of China disagreeing with our position,” Lacierda told reporters in a press briefing.

Lacierda also expressed confidence that the successor of President Benigno Aquino III would uphold the country’s foreign policy to ensure a peaceful resolution of disputes in the sea row with

China.

“In spite of the fact that we are in a transition where we’ll have a new leader by the start of July, I think the successor would continue the policies that we’ve started. It’s inclusive. Our foreign policy is inclusive,” Lacierda said.

“It acknowledges the need for cooperation between all the neighboring countries surrounding the South China Sea, and I don’t think one of them will disagree with the policy that has been laid down by President Aquino,” he said, adding that presidential candidates should make their positions clear on dealing with China.

MASS WEDDING. About 169 couples who have been living together without the benefit of marriage joined a mass wedding in the Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City, Pangasinan on Sunday, Feb. 14. The brides wore long, white dresses and floral headdresses while the grooms were in red knee-length pants and cream polo shirts with leis around their necks. The Valentine’s Day mass wedding was sponsored by the Pag-IBIG Home Mutual Development Fund and the city government, led by Mayor Arthur Celeste. Philstar.com photo by eva Visperas

No barhopping for GIs in PH for EDCA Bishops: We’re not endorsing any candidate

by Julie

AlipAlA Inquirer.net

ZAMBOANGA CITY—US troops here under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) will be confined to camp when not training with their Filipino allies, according to the chief of the Western Mindanao Command headquartered in this city.

Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo de la Cruz, Westmincom commander, said he had prohibited the American servicemen, whose numbers he would not divulge, from venturing outside the camp, especially for recreational purposes.

This means, De la Cruz said, they cannot go to bars or other

places to unwind. If they want to relax, they could do it in the Westmincom camp.

“They will just stay here, to train our troops,” he said of the Americans who are mostly medic and first aid personnel.

De la Cruz said the ban was for the safety and security of both the American and Filipino forces, and for which reason they could not go to Basilan or Sulu to conduct training.

“We will bring our troops here.

I don’t want the focus of our operations affected just because of on-site training,” he said, adding that the troops in the provinces were preoccupied with operations against the Abu Sayyaf and

the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

De la Cruz said the only time the US forces would be allowed to venture out of the camp is when they conduct marksmanship training in, for example, Barangay Cabatangan and when they hold civil-military humanitarian operations.

Last year, Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton was found guilty of homicide and sentenced to 10 years in prison in the killing of Jennifer Laude in Olongapo City.

The case drew vehement reaction to the presence, albeit temporarily, of US troops in the Philippines.

Roxas undaunted by survey result

by CArlA

p. Gomez

Inquirer.net

BACOLOD CITY—If Liberal Party standard bearer Mar Roxas was upset over his standing in recent survey results, he did not show it during his sortie in Negros Occidental.

Roxas appeared upbeat Tuesday, Feb. 16 when he urged Negrenses to vote for his running mate, Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and his senatorial slate in three separate rallies in the province where his mother, Judy Araneta-Roxas, is from.

At least 5,000 people attended the LP rally in the public plaza in Silay City Tuesday morning and about 8,000 in a coliseum in Bago City in the afternoon.

In the evening, the LP was scheduled to have another rally at the Paglaum Stadium in Bacolod City.

The sorties came a day after the Social Weather Station survey results placed Roxas third in the presidential race, dropping three points from January to the first week of February.

Vice President Jejomar Bi- Liberal Party standard bearer Mar Roxas nay topped the survey with 24 percent followed by Sen. Grace Poe and Davao Mayor Rodrigo Duterte who tied for the second spot.

Despite the results, Roxas cracked jokes in Hiligaynon, danced to his upbeat campaign jingle, and kissed elderly ladies during the rallies.

During the rally in Silay, Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. introduced Roxas as “the pride of Negros” and the most qualified bet for the presidency.

Roxas’ speech ended with a shower of yellow confetti and cheers from the dancing crowd.

Roxas, in an interview, brushed aside the recent SWS results, saying survey results usually rise and fall.

What was important, he added, was the survey to be conducted on Election Day. Senate President Franklin Drilon said they were depending on Negros Island and Western Visayas to give the LP bets and Roxas a big lead to cover for areas where they may not be so strong.

“We hope to get broad-based support in Negros and Bacolod,” he said.

Drilon said he was not concerned about Roxas’ standing in the recent survey, saying the LP standard bearer could still recover.

LP senatorial bet Leila De Lima said the poor ratings to Roxas could only improve, now that the official campaign has started and the party machinery was at work.

She also pushed for Robredo as vice president.

The martial law record of the Marcos family is a serious issue that must be pondered on by voters, she said, “Are we willing to gamble the future of our country? Are we willing to gamble on the return of a Marcos?” she asked.

by TinA

G. SAnToS Inquirer.net

THE CATHOLIC Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is not endorsing any candidate for the May 2016 polls, its top official reiterated Tuesday, Feb. 16.

CBCP president Lingayen Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas also clarified that Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. merely asked for prayers and not for his endorsement when the latter visited him over the weekend.

“He just asked for prayers,” Villegas told reporters when asked about the visit. “I answered him I will pray for him.”

Told that other people might see it as blessing the vice presidential candidate with an endorsement, Villegas said: “(They should) ignore their wrong thoughts.”

The CBCP earlier maintained that the Catholic Church would never endorse a candidate, but added that the laity, with the help of dioceses, should do their part in educating voters.

Villegas said voters should heed their conscience and Church teachings in electing the country’s next leaders.

“As the political engine is revved for the presidential elections, we urge our lay persons to be actively engaged in the apostolate of evan-

CBCP President Archbishop Socrates Villegas

gelizing the political order,” Villegas said in a pastoral letter.

“While the CBCP and the Catholic Church in the Philippines will never endorse a particular candidate or a particular party, leaving the consciences of voters sovereign in this respect, in keeping with long-accepted moral teachings of the Church, we commend efforts such as these to arrive at a collective T:4.9 ‘’discernment on the basis of Catholic standards and principles, that are‘’not necesS:4.775 sarily sectarian,” he added.

But despite non-endorsement of candidates, the Lingayen-Dagupan archbishop said the Church

could contribute to political education by conducting debates and public fora.

“We encourage debate among the candidates, and we hope that our dioceses will organize public fora and debates that allow the public to familiarize themselves with the positions, platforms, plans, beliefs and convictions of our candidates,” Villegas said, noting that these gatherings should be “permeated by a genuine sense of fairness, consecration to the truth and charity.”

In a statement, Marcos said the meeting with Villegas, which was held at the Arzobizpado LingayenDagupan, happened last Saturday during the fifth day of his “Unity Caravan” in northern Luzon and lasted for 30 minutes.

But Marcos said they did not discussed politics. “We talked about everything, we talked about my family, we didn’t talk about politics,” he said.

“We discussed everything under the sun, except politics. He blessed me. And I am very grateful for that,” he said.

The lawmaker expressed gratitude to Villegas for accommodating him and his group despite the Catholic prelate’s busy schedule.

“He was very gracious to accommodate us …he just came from Manila,” Marcos said.

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february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL

OpiniOn

Features

Business trip

PRESIDENT Barack Obama welcomed leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Monday, Feb. 15, to discuss terrorism, maritime security, trade, and climate change.

“Economic growth that is inclusive, creating opportunity for all; mutual security and the peaceful resolution of disputes; human dignity, including respect for human rights, and development that is sustainable — that is our vision. That’s what brings us here together today,” Obama told the ASEAN heads of state.

President Benigno S. Aquino III was among the attendees of the two-day summit, which included leaders from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The first US-ASEAN summit aims to strengthen the partnership that the US has forged with ASEAN since 2009, and will further advance the administration’s rebalance to Asia and the Pacific. This new multilateral initiative also aims to secure concrete commitments from governments to promote transparency, fight corruption, empower citizens, and utilize new technologies to make governments accountable and effective.

“This ASEAN-US Special Summit is providing us an excellent opportunity to exchange our views and also provide direction for our officials in order to implement the outcome of previous ASEANUS Summit in view of further strengthening our strategic partnership for the promotion of durable peace, stability, and prosperity for the future benefits of our nations and peoples,” Obama said.

According to Philippine Ambassador to the US

Jose Cuisia Jr., the summit is an opportunity for leaders of the ASEAN and the US to have candid conversations about issues of mutual concern.

Cuisia also highlighted that the bilateral relations between the Philippines and the US have never been more vibrant. He added that the two countries have reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security, climate change, violent extremism and economic engagement.

“As we mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Philippine-US relations, we highlight the durability, comprehensiveness, and dynamism of our ties. We have always been supportive of the rebalance to Asia-Pacific policy of the United States as it is an opportunity to deepen further our alliance in various areas of cooperation,” he said.

Following the US-ASEAN summit, Aquino embarked on a working visit to Los Angeles where he had a series of meetings with officials of Walt Disney International, Western Digital Corporation, and AECOM’s Enterprise Growth Solutions. Before leaving the US, Aquino also met with members of the Fil-Am community to share with them good news from the Philippines.

This may be Aquino’s final visit to the United States as Philippine president. With limited experience in foreign policy and an apparent preference for concentrating on domestic issues, Aquino has managed to thrive with his official trips abroad.

The history of state visits goes back several

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

hundred years. These formal visits are an important part of international diplomacy—to reinforce excellent relations, and intensify cooperation and exchanges between economies. There will never be a lack of subjects that need to be addressed between governments. Issues to be discussed such as economic balancing, security challenges and maritime cooperation, (of bilateral and global importance) should constantly be looked upon. Main-

taining peace and stability is always a priority so that each country can focus on their own domestic issues.

State visits between important countries is an opportunity, not just for the attendees, but to each leader’s constituents as well. While Aquino’s state visits have yielded positive results, perhaps the trickier part of the process is making the outcome survive, years after the summit. (AJPress)

Why you should apply for US citizenship now MANY kababayans in America, even those among my own circle of family and friends, take their sweet time before taking the first step toward naturalization to become U.S. citizens. This, despite the pains and struggles of obtaining their Permanent Resident card (green card) so they can legally live and work in the U.S. Some have separation anxiety — that sadness of letting go of their Filipino citizenship and professing loyalty to a country other than the Motherland. Others are worried about the cost of filing for naturalization, while there are those who just forget about it until their green cards are about to expire.

If you and your family have made the decision to permanently live in the US, there are reasons why you should apply for citizenship sooner rather than later.

On The Filipino Channel’s daily newscast “Balitang America,” Pinoy Panawagan legal counsel Atty. Lou Tancinco shares the important reasons why, which I hope can help you make that urgent decision: 1. Family unity Green card holders or non-US citizens who are

Commentary

CaRoline Fan IT’S that time again, the time every four years when candidates start paying attention to different constituencies and the media assesses the relative value. Asian American Pacific Islander voters matter in Nevada, and we can be the difference in a close election. As a veteran of a few Nevada campaigns, I’ve had people ask me what I think caucus turnout will be here. I think it will be close between Clinton and Sanders, and AAPIs can prove the decisive vote. Unlike many states, polling doesn’t count for much, and we’ve been the margin of victory a few times.

In 2010, election night polls had Harry Reid tied with Sharron Angle, and he wound up winning by 5 points because of minority voters (Asian Pacific American and Latino) who remembered her comment that “you [Latinos] all look a little Asian.” In Nevada, AAPI voters made the difference in critical elections going back 20 years. Since our population has more than doubled in the past 10 years, we can be the critical difference once again.

Now let’s talk about where the Nevada AAPI community has been, where we can go, what we can accomplish, and who we should support.

permanent residents may petition their unmarried children as The Fil-Am well as their spouses. However, unlike US citizens, they are not Perspective allowed to petition their parents, their married children and their siblings.

Being a US citizen provides them the ability to petition more Gel SantoS-ReloS family members including their future spouses or fiancées. Also, US citizens may petition their minor children and spouses faster (about 12 months) as compared to green card holder petitioners.

Filipino immigrants who are family-oriented would prefer to be naturalized as US citizens rather than wait to be reunited with their family members.

2. Avoiding separation Once a green card holder migrates, the permanent resident status is not really “permanent” in the sense that it may be revoked for cause by the US Department of Homeland Security.

This happens when an immigrant is convicted of a removable/deportable offense, even if family

Nevada AAPI voters matter Both Democratic candidates would be strong proponents of AAPI communities, and are committed to welcoming our families into the fabric of American life.

For leading Republican candidates, we are undesirable and less than citizens – to be banned from entering the country and deported. Our community has felt the unequal force of discriminatory laws and policies before, and we have no interest in being marginalized again.

There is a clear difference between how our families would be treated under a Clinton or Sanders administration, and under a Republican-controlled government. The Democrats have welcoming immigration policies and support reducing family immigration backlogs that can reach 20 years especially for Filipino Americans. Meanwhile, the Republican candidates including so-called moderate Jeb Bush see us as “Asian anchor babies.” If we don’t vote, then we are at risk of being targeted by discriminatory policies which Republican candidates wish to re-enact at our community’s expense. By voting, we can hold politicians accountable, implement better policies, and prevent punitive laws from occurring. Of course, it helps to have input at the highest levels.

If the Asian American community in the Silver State wants to make progress, and have representation within politics,

it’s important that we participate in the Democratic caucuses – it’s not enough to wait to vote in November. Voting means power in the United States, and if we don’t go out to vote, it is the equivalent of giving up power and being voiceless. (And voting for this batch of Republicans might as well be a wasted vote.) If we want AAPIs in decision-making roles, we have to show up. AAPIs turned out in overwhelming numbers (73 percent) for Obama and the president has appointed an unprecedented number of Asian Americans to key Cabinet, political appointments, and federal judgeships, and may nominate the first Asian American Supreme Court justice. What better way to demonstrate that our community has a lasting impact in American life than a historic lifetime appointment to the nation’s highest court?

AAPI voters matter in Nevada, and there is increasing awareness and outreach to our communities. Now we have to turnout on caucus day and vote Democratic to demonstrate the strength of our community’s voice and our vote.

*** Caroline Fan is a Board Member and former Endorsements Chair for the Asian American Action Fund, a Democratic Asian Pacific American political action committee founded in 1999. The AAA Fund has supported over 100 AAPI candidates for office, including 20 women, and saw a doubling of AAPIs in Congress in 2012. She also founded the organization’s group blog.

members are all US citizens.

This happened to a longtime Filipino immigrant who was arrested for a traffic violation but was later found to have a criminal history. The criminal convictions he had were deportable offenses and resulted in his deportation from the United States; consequently, he was separated from his US citizen spouse and children. This situation could have been avoided if the immigrant was a naturalized US citizen at the time of conviction.

To prevent any unintended immigration consequences, it would be best to apply for US citizenship as soon as the immigrant meets the eligibility for naturalization.

3. Civic engagement Filipinos are the second-fastest growing minority group, and integration to the adopted land becomes critical. Naturalized US citizens are given access to voting, political rights and can seek equal protection of the law. A naturalized US citizen may hold elected positions that will not only protect the interests of their constituents but also

Commentary

Paul KinCaid WITH the Nevada Democratic Caucus approaching on February 20 and big issues at stake in 2016, I know that we Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) voters will make our voices heard.

The number of AAPIs eligible to vote in Nevada has grown by 55 percent over 2000 to 2010 to 134,000 - a critical 7.3 percent of the eligible voter pool. In 2008 and 2012, AAPIs in the Silver State came out strongly in favor of Obama.

As the fastest-growing growing racial group in the country, AAPIs deserve a President who will actively engage us, one who recognizes us as leaders, and who will take action on the issues important to our AAPI communities.

Hillary Clinton is that presidential candidate.

Hillary fought for universal health care far before we called for ObamaCare. Prior to the Affordable Care Act, one in six AAPIs were uninsured. This year, we expect 2 million AAPIs who would otherwise be uninsured to be covered or eligible to be covered, closing the coverage gap by 80 percent!

Hillary not only played a key role in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), but also fought to restore access to Medicaid and CHIP to immigrant children and

their community.

4. Federal employment A naturalized US citizen may be afforded opportunities for federal employment with better benefits.

Many Filipinos have joined the US military and have become US citizens giving them the ability to petition family members and enjoy military benefits.

5. Ease of travel This is probably the least important in terms of the reasons for becoming a US citizen but interestingly, some Filipinos carry pride in holding US passport when traveling to other countries.

Certainly, there are more than these five reasons to apply for US citizenship. The motivation may be toward immigration integration but it does not take out the “Filipino” in the immigrant.

With success or failure, the Filipino naturalized US citizen will still be perceived as a Filipino in his/her adopted land. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos

Making the AAPI vote count pregnant mothers. She will build on the progress we’ve fought to achieve over the past 25 years to expand access to quality, affordable care to all Americans and make sure that our AAPI communities are not left behind.

She has also been a consistent supporter of comprehensive immigration reform, and understands that we must pair a path to citizenship with fixing our outdated, broken family immigration system. We must fight to keep AAPI DREAMers and undocumented families together, while reuniting AAPIs with the 1.8 million family members trapped in the family backlog for years and even decades.

If Congress doesn’t act on comprehensive immigration reform, Hillary has vowed to use her Presidential authority to defend and expand President Obama’s current Executive Orders on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Deferred Action for Parents of Americans. Indeed, the refusal of Republicans in Congress to allow comprehensive immigration reform means that executive actions are a necessity—whether to bring undocumented families out of the shadows or to reunite Filipino American veterans with their loved ones.

Lastly, Hillary knows that we aren’t a single-issue country. To address the complexities of inequalities based on race, gender, class, sexual orientation, and gender identity, we must be thoughtful, deliberate and understand

how those issues interact. As we give working class Americans a raise, we need to address the fact that on average, AAPI women earn 62 cents on the dollar when compared to white men doing the same job. As we remove cost as a barrier to a college education through Hillary’s New College Compact, we need to address the wide educational disparities within our AAPI communities. We must also end the bullying and discrimination faced by our AAPI students at school.

We have a lot at stake this election. No matter the differences between Senator Sanders and Secretary of State Clinton, their differences pale in comparison to the gulf between our party leaders and the Republican forerunners. When Republican candidates propose to ban all Muslims from entering the country, deny entry of refugees, dismantle our social safety net, and to deny the reality of climate change, it shows how much we need a leader with the heart and the head, the compassion and the strength, the boldness and a soulful pragmatism.

Our President recently said, “If the 99 percent of us voted, it wouldn’t matter how much the 1 percent spends on our elections.” The vote of each and every one of you counts so please exercise it. Hilary Clinton has long been a friend to our community and I’m honored to support her. I hope you will too, with your heart, your feet and your vote!

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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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • fEbRUARy 18-24, 2016

SWS: Sotto, Lacson, Recto top Senate survey

by Helen Flores

The survey, conducted from Feb. 5 to 7, used face-to-face interviews of 1,200 validated voters nationwide and had a sampling error margin of plus or minus three percentage points.

Coming in second is former senator Panfilo Lacson, whose rating remained at 49 percent.

Sen. Ralph Recto took third spot with 46 percent, unchanged from his January score.

Former senator and food security presidential assistant Francis

Pangilinan ranked fourth with 42 percent, from 46 last month. He MANILA—Sen. Vicente Sotto is followed by Senate President III continued to lead senatorial Franklin Drilon with 40 percent, candidates for the May elections from 43 in January. based on the results of the latest Ranked sixth is former senator BusinessWorld-Social Weather Juan Miguel Zubiri with 38 perStations (SWS) pre-election surcent from 39 last month. vey.

Sen. Sergio Osmeña III is in The results, released yesterseventh place with 37 percent day, showed Sotto obtaining from 42 percent.

52 percent voter preference for Boxing icon and Sarangani this month, from 56 percent in Rep. Manny Pacquiao and former January. justice secretary Leila de Lima are tied at eighth and ninth places with 35 percent each.

Pacquiao’s voter preference dropped by two points while De Lima’s score increased by two.

In 10th place is former Akbayan lawmaker Risa Hontiveros with 27 percent from 28 percent.

The SWS survey showed a close fight for the last two seats among Sen. Teofisto Guingona III, with 26 percent from 28; former senator Richard Gordon, 26 from 31 percent; Valenzuela City Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian, 23 percent from 17, and former Technology Education and Skills DevelopThe results of the latest BusinessWorld-Social Weather Stations (SWS) pre-election survey showed Sen. Vicente Sotto III obtaining 52 percent voter preference for this month, followed ment Authority head Joel Villanueva with 22 from 19 percent last by former senator Panfilo Lacson with 49 percent, and Sen. Ralph Recto with 46 percent.

Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV month.

Philstar.com

Inquirer.net

THE printing of the ballots for the 2016 elections was temporarily stopped on Wednesday, Feb. 17 after it was noticed that presidential candidate Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago’s political party had not been included.

Genevieve Guevarra, the head of the poll body’s printing committee, explained to reporters that the missing name of Santiago’s political party—People’s Reform Party—was discovered after the NPO had already printed 39 pieces of the ballot.

Guevarra said they had to rush to the Comelec’s Sta Rosa Laguna warehouse to correct the error on the ballot face.

Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago

CRIME AND CORRUPTION CHAMPION. Lauro Vizconde, chairman emeritus of the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) died Saturday afternoon at the intensive care unit of a Parañaque City hospital after suffering four successive heart attacks. He was 78. Vizconde, prior to his death, lived at the same house in Parañaque City where his wife Estrelita, 49, and daughters Carmela, 18, and Jennifer, 6, were all stabbed to death on June 30, 1991. Carmela was also raped. Jimenez said it was at the hospital that Vizconde had the series of four heart attacks. The last one sent him to the hospital’s ICU. Philstar.com photo

DOJ: Mamasapano raps resolved this month

MANILA—The Department of Justice (DOJ) has promised to resolve this month the criminal accusations against 90 commanders and members of Muslim rebel groups responsible for the killing of 44 commandos of the police Special Action Force (SAF), the highest death toll in the elite unit’s history, in Mamasapano last year.

Acting Justice Secretary Emmanuel Caparas made the promise after consulting the panel that looked into the charges against But she explained that the initial “We have resumed printing the Moro Islamic Liberation Front batch of printed ballots were not of- but those being printed are demo (MILF), Bangsamoro Islamic Freeficial ballots but the ones to be used ballots, while we are still waiting dom Fighters (BIFF) and a private in the final testing and sealing of the for the corrected ballot face,” said armed group. vote counting machines (VCMs), Guevarra.

Caparas also vowed to make which is scheduled at least a week before the May 9 polls.

The NPO officially started the printing of the official ballots on Monday, Feb. 15. As of Wednesday, the NPO was still waiting for the new corrected layout of the ballot.

“It has not arrived yet but we were told that it will arrive today, if not in the afternoon, later tonight,” Guevarra said.

While waiting for the final and corrected ballot face, the NPO printed instead the 750,000 ballots to be used for the demo of the VCMs.

Santiago’s name missing as Comelec starts printing ballots

by Tina G. sanTos

A

public the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) resolution on the complex crime of direct assault with murder involving the killing of 35 commandos of the 55th SAF Company in Mamasapano.

He appealed for understanding on the DOJ failure to resolve the charges for more than a year, saying the panel chaired by Asst. State Prosecutor Alexander Suarez needed to carefully study the evidence to ensure an airtight case.

Of the 90 respondents, only four submitted counter-affidavits and denied the charges: alleged MILF field commander Pendatun Utek Makakua, who claimed he is a farmer; Mustapha Tatak, a

barangay chairman in Sapakan, Mamasapano; and civilians Lakiman Dawaling and Khalim Keda, who were accused of being MILF field commanders.

They were accused of acting “in conspiracy with one another to attack, employ force, seriously intimidate or resist the 35 SAF commandos, who were uniformed police officers and thus persons in authority.”

The fact-finding team of prosecutors and NBI agents based the report on accounts of eyewitnesses, including one alias Marathon who identified the MILF and BIFF commanders. (Edu Punay/Philstar. com)

A

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february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL

We need to show up for Hillary.

Hillary Clinton’s track record as a champion for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is unmatched by any other presidential candidate of any party. She has clearly demonstrated her commitment to our issues, concerns, and communities. She has worked hard to create jobs, raise wages, make college more affordable, lower health care costs, and help families save for a secure retirement. We can count on her to keep moving our country forward in the right direction.

CAUCUS FOR HILLARY ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20TH

Paid for by CAPA21 (CAPA21.com) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

For more information, visit NevadaAAPI.com.

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LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • fEbRUARy 18-24, 2016

VEGAS&STYLE

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Journal

John Lloyd Cruz denies relationship with Bea Alonzo What’s in store for 16 celebs this year MANILA—John Lloyd Cruz denied that there’s a brewing romance between him and Bea Alonzo.

“Wala po, wala po,” replied John Lloyd when asked if he have a relationship with Bea, in an interview aired on ABS-CBN news program “TV Patrol” on Tuesday, Feb. 16.

“Magkaibigan po kami,” he added.

It was in January when Zanjoe confirmed the end of his relationship with Bea. While it was the same month when reports surfaced that John Lloyd and Angelica Panganiban have terminated their relationship.

For now, John Lloyd is busy working on his film together with Jennylyn Mercado.

“Dapat noon mayro’n aming isang gagawin, pero hindi natuloy. ‘Yon pala ito ang kapalit,” he

by Dolly

Anne CArvAjAl Inquirer.net

John Lloyd Cruz denied rumors of a romance is brewing between him and Bea Alonzo.

Philstar.com photo by Efigenio Toledo IV

said. “So I’m very happy. Nakakailang eksena pa lang kami pero sa nakikita ko, I’m very excited to experience her talent.”

He’s presently in Berlin to support Lav Diaz in his film “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis’ which will compete for the Main Competition of Berlin International Film

Festival 2016.

“Sobrang excited kasi for the first time, especially kay Lav Diaz, first time pumasok ng kanyang pelikula sa Berlin Film Festival,” he said.

“Napakalaking bagay po nito para sa film industry natin,” John Lloyd added. (Philstar.com)

Erwan Heussaff: Anne’s presence will always be more than enough MANILA—Erwan Heussaff posted a romantic message for his girlfriend Anne Curtis, who celebrated her birthday on Wednesday, Feb. 17.

On Wednesday, Erwan posted on his Instagram account a photo of Anne smiling by the seashore.

“Through my eyes, sun kissed, speckled with freckles and care free, is how I see her. Hands clasped through rough terrains and the cliché walks on the beach, we’ll keep each other company through this nomadic adventure,” he said in the caption.

He ended his greeting by saying, “Happy birthday to the one who’s presence will always be more than enough.”

Restaurateur Erwan Heussaff and Anne Curtis spend a vacation in South America in this January 2016 photo posted by the actress-host on her Instagram account.

Instagram photo by Anne Curtis

Anne and Erwan have been down, but admitted that they’re together for five years. The couple talking about marriage from time said they’re in no rush to settle to time. (Philstar.com)

THE year of the Monkey is in full swing. To jump-start the new year, I asked celebs’ and biz moguls’ trusted feng shui expert Marites Allen for her 2016 forecast for 16 personalities.

I fondly call Marites “Lady Luck.” She has come a long, hard way. From her humble beginnings as a Cebuana who took a chance in Manila, she has conquered the world as a feng shui expert. Marites has also ventured into a clothing line business, Frigga, which brings luck and prosperity. Check out her boutiques in SM (MOA, North Edsa, Megamall and Seaside Cebu), Glorietta 4 and Serendra (www.frigga. co.uk). Connect with her at www. maritesallen.com.

She has worked wonders in many celebs’ love life and careers by realigning their “lucky stars.”

Marites is like a fortune cookie, amulet and lucky charm in one!

Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos (Year of the Snake)—They stand to benefit from the events that will come their way. Hopeless situations could become wonderful opportunities. Their life force and spirit essence are strong. They will get a visit from the Victory Star. A series of small successes will lead to something bigger.

Anne Curtis, Coco Martin, Kathryn Bernardo and Marian Rivera (Year of the Rat) They have encouraging personal luck and their vitality levels are strong. Whatever they set to accomplish previously will get carried over this year. They need to be careful, though, of unlucky elements that could bring betrayal and robbery—so they should watch people they associate with.

Anne should consider marriage

plans. Marian must practice compromise in her marriage. Coco is in for a surprise in the love department. So is Kathryn.

Alden Richards and Ogie Alcasid (Year of the Sheep) Opportunities will come fast but if they don’t grab them quickly enough, they might not last long.

Think and act on their feet because there will be pressure from competition. Instead of taking time and thinking long about other options, remember that the Current Prosperity Star is in their chart. It means that success is theirs for the picking in the short term.

Alden will not run out of choices for potential girlfriends. He must make sure to connect with the one he thinks is for the long haul.

Maine Mendoza, Daniel Padilla and John Lloyd Cruz (Year of the Boar) Great opportunities will fall on their laps. Although the Quarrelsome Star could bring negativity in some forms, their amiable nature will carry them through. They should not give way to temporary feelings of gloom and keep their cool.

Many potential lovers will come their way this year but none of them are meant to last.

Vice Ganda (Year of the Dragon) The Victory Star in his chart will bring success in most competitive situations. Three more auspicious stars indicate good fortune in the form of life-changing events.

If he will be in a relationship, unwelcome rumors could get in the way. If he is single, he might face opposition from the family of a potential partner. But if he shows his sincere intentions, everything will be fine.

James Reid and Nadine Lustre

Alden Richards

Anne Curtis

(Year of the Rooster) The element luck chart shows average readings. They will have to work harder but there will be excitement as they go along because of the rush of ambition engulfing them. They must make sure not to get sidetracked by the humdrum of everyday living. The feng shui winds bring luck in love. They must not delay expressing their feelings if they are in love.

Dingdong Dantes (Year of the Monkey) Fabulous luck indications include the support of the Tai Sui or the god of the year. The Prosperity Star is also in his favor. There could also be a spiritual awakening of some kind, which will make him realize that there is more to life than what he has always thought of. One big deal will come his way.

PAGE B7

to places less traveled ‘Visit the PhiLiPPines AgAin 2016’ DOt enCOurAges tOurists tO reVisit Ph

by MAry MAy Portez AJPress

Pandanon Island along Mactan Channel, Cebu

By MoMAr

G. visAyA

AJPress

THE New York Times Travel Show, the largest and longest-running trade and consumer travel show in North America, ended a couple of weeks ago on a high note.

The attendance to the show this year was the highest in nine years and the second most attended New York Times Travel Show ever.

Almost 30,000 people trooped to the Jacob Javits Convention Center over the weekend when the show was on, despite nearfreezing weather. There were more than 500 exhibitors, including the Philippine Department of Tourism, an annual supporter of the travel show.

This year, the tourism department showcased the Tourism Promotion Board’s newest campaign, ‘Visit Philippines Again 2016’, an offshoot of the successful ‘Visit Philippines Year 2015’ project.

Consul General Mario De Leon, Jr., accompanied by Ms. Eleanor De Leon, Philippine Department of Tourism New York (PDOT-NY) Representative Michelle Cristalle

Photos by Mary May Portez

Dy-Vera, as well as Consul Felipe Carino III, welcomed prospective travelers visiting the Philippine booth to learn about the latest tourism packages. Also in attendance were Ms. Zeny Pallugna and Mr. Joey Chanco of PDOT-NY and Ms. Daniella Usmanova representing Philippine Airlines.

A three-day event for travel enthusiasts, the New York Times Travel Show boasts of exhibitors representing over 150 countries.

The event showcases products like exploring domestic and international hot spots, familiar favorites and under-the radar crowd-free escapades.

The travel show features, among others, the Travel Industry Conference, consumer seminars, and an interactive exhibition including more than 500 exhibitors from Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Latin America, Mexico and the United States. In addition to discounts and special offers, the show provides educational seminars and live entertainment for families, individuals, couples

and seniors.

Consul General Mario De Leon lauded the efforts of the Philippine Department of Tourism and PDOTNew York which are actively promoting attractive travel packages to mainstream travelers as well as Filipino-Americans in cooperation with US travel operators and international air carriers. There were several outstanding travel packages to off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Philippines that are widely popular among American retirees and younger generation Filipino-Americans that can be marketed extensively, he added.

PDOT-New York’s Ms. Michelle Dy-Vera is upbeat for the tourism and travel industry in the Philippines this year. She said that her office is aiming to expand partnerships and develop cooperation with US travel operators and agents, mainstream organizations, including air carriers, to include travel packages to the Philippines in their promotional efforts and publications as well as encourage a side-trip to the Philippines for

CAN a region long overcast with unfavorable razzmatazz unveil its true wonder? Behind the prejudice and infamy, Mary May Portez follows the road less traveled to discover Northern Mindanao’s underrated beauty. From Camiguin’s rustic je ne sais quoi to Misamis Oriental’s burgeoning craft industry, traveling has never been this inspiring. Capping it off with an adrenaline rush from Cagayan de Oro’s sundry of adventure feats, Mindanao is a revelation waiting to be unraveled.

CAMIGUIN The first thing you need to know is that Camiguin is an island of volcanic origin located 120 kilometers southeast of Cebu and 90 kilometers north of Cagayan de Oro. This pear shaped, volcanic island houses more volcanoes than its actual towns, with Mount Hibok Hibok as the only active volcano that is expected to erupt every fifty to sixty years—its last recorded activity was back in 1950. During lent, devotees would walk around the island and trek up to the old volcanoes in observance of the Panaad festival which is similar to a traditional Walk of Penitence done by Catholics reliving the way of the cross. Second, that

American travelers to Asia. She found this year’s attendees to the Travel Show with increased interest on the Philippine tourism destinations.

In order to further promote the campaign in New York, TPB through the DOT have placed ads on the Gray Line double-decker buses that bring NYC tourists to the various landmarks and destinations in the city.

2016 promises to be another good year for Philippine tourism as global publications continue to recommend the county as a mustvisit destination.

National Geographic picked the Philippines as one of their top destinations for 2016, along with Burgundy, France; Glasgow, Scotland and Hokkaido, Japan. Cebu and Boracay made it to this year’s ‘Best Islands’ survey of Conde Nast’s Traveler magazine readers who unanimously voted for Palawan to be the best island in the world for the second year in a row.

“Visit the Philippines Again 2016” Simala (place Cebu) PAGE B3

as Northern Mindanao’s leading tourist destination, Camiguin is a sell short of natural beauty; from springs to sandbars, everything about this island is nothing short of inspiring.

Where the water never runs dry One interesting fact about Camiguin is that the water resource comes from several natural springs scattered across the island. Faucets are never closed to keep the pipes from bursting with overflowing water. You will be surprised that your tap water tastes almost like San Pellegrino, minus the carbonated fizz.

Exploring the island, you will find a number of hot and cold springs like the Sto. Niño Cold Spring Resort in Catarman that is popular among the locals for its perennial crystal clear, cool waters; the Ardent Hot Springs Resort in Mambajao that also offers a quaint lodging options for anyone who wishes to stay overnight; and the Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool in Catarman that is best known for its medicinal purposes. The iconic sunken cemetery in Catarman is a historical site as well as a tourist attraction.

Of heritage sites and historical ruins PAGE B3

B february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL

Features

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Enrique Iglesias thanks ‘Yolanda’ child survivors for Valentine cards InternatIonal singer enrique Iglesias thanked kindergarten Yolanda survivors from tacloban City after he received handmade Valentine cards from them for the day of hearts.

“I am honored to receive these hopeful messages from children in the Philippines. My fans have embraced this project in more ways than I could have imagined, and their generosity is going to make a big difference for kids in crises,” Iglesias said in an interview.

Iglesias is one of the many foreign celebrities who help children that have been affected by calamity in different parts of the world through the #Hearts4Kids t-shirt campaign in partnership with Save the Children, an international non-governmental organization that promotes children’s rights, provides relief and helps support children in developing countries. the international recording star received the Valentine cards last Friday while he was on tour to promote his 10th studio album called “Sex and love.” “typhoon Yolanda took a tremendous toll on children. I would

like to thank enrique Iglesias for director ned olney. his support to the children of the plight of the Filipino chilYolanda and to vulnerable chil- dren is near and dear to the dren around the world,” said Save popstar’s heart as his mother is a the Children Philippines country Filipina. (Inquirer.net)

How do Nadine Lustre, James Reid want to end ‘On the Wings of Love’? by

Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

ManIla—nadine lustre and James reid didn’t agree on how they want to end the story of leah and Clark in “on the Wings of love.” the show is down to its last two weeks, and up to now the viewers are wondering if their characters will eventually end up together or will totally drift apart.

Given a chance, nadine would like leah and Clark to end up together.

“Gusto ko po happily together,” said the Kapamilya actress, during the finale presscon of “on the Wings of love” on tuesday, Feb. 16.

“Kasi na-in love ako sa kanila, sa story nila Clark at leah. So even me as nadine, invested ako doon sa love story nila,” she explained.

“Gusto ko rin na mag-end up sila together. Pero ang gulo-gulo na po kasi ngayon, e, so tingnan

natin.”

However, James would like to end their story in “tragedy.”

“Honestly, I’m a fan of tragedy,” he said. “the tragic ending makes you want to watch the beginning again, which makes you appreciate the love story at the middle.

It makes you want for them to be together, it’s an endless cycle.” “on the Wings of love” will air its final episode on February 26. aside from the finale of their show, nadine and James are busy rehearsing for their concert “JaDine In love.”

Some of their guests in the concert are Vice Ganda, elmo Magalona, Yassi Pressman and Myrtle Sarrossa. asked why Paulo, who plays the role of Simon in their show, won’t be there in the concert James replied: “this is JaDine concert, not ‘on the Wings of love’ concert,’” which elicited cheers from their fans present at

Nadine Lustre and James Reid would like to end the story of Leah and Clark in different ways.

Philstar.com photo by Joyce Jimenez

the press conference.

“JaDine In love” concert is happening on February 20 at the Smart-araneta Coliseum.

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Features

Lav Diaz film main entry in Berlin film fest LAV Diaz’s “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis” (A Lullaby for the Sorrowful Mystery) has been chosen to compete in the Main Competition section of the Berlin International Film Festival 2016 (Berlinale).

Its world premier is set on Feb. 18 and the awards night is on Feb. 21 with Meryl Streep as president of jury.

The film is Diaz’s first main competition in the Big 3—Cannes, Berlin, Venice—and a long overdue recognition of being accepted into the section after years of participation in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard, Venice’s Orrizonti and the Berlinale Forum.

Hele is about the history of Filipinos and boasts of having the biggest cast ensemble in current Philippine film history.

Its lead stars are John Lloyd Cruz and Piolo Pascual, with Cherie Gil, Angel Aquino, Bernardo Bernardo, Alessandra De Rossi, Hazel Orencio, Susan Africa, Joel Saracho, Ely Buendia, Sid Lucero; Ronnie Lazaro, Menggie Cobarrubias, Bart Guingona, Jean Judith

Director Lav Diaz, Paul Soriano, John Lloyd Cruz and Piolo Pascual in Berlin to attend the Berlin International Film Festival 2016.

Javier, Sheenly Gener, Paul Jake Paule, Noel Sto. Domingo, Matt Daclan, Melo Esguerra, Bianca Balbuena, Moira Lang, Bradley Liew, Kristine Kintana, Karenina Haniel, Sigrid Bernardo, Rcee Tenefrancia and Kuya Manzano as supporting actors.

Diaz said he was surprised but thankful that many actors agreed to join his film about revolution.

Interconnected narratives on the Philippine Revolution of 1896-1897 against the Spanish characterize Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis—the

story of the ballad Jocelynang Baliwag, which became the hymn of the revolution; Gregoria de Jesus’ forlorn search for the body of the Father of Philippine Revolution Andres Bonifacio; the journey of our national hero’s fictional book characters Simon and Isagani; the role of the Philippine mythical hero of strength Bernardo Carpio and the half-man, half-horse tikbalang/ engkanto, and a discourse on the Filipino psyche. It is a marriage of history, literature and mythology, Diaz said. (Philstar.com)

‘Visit the Philippines Again 2016’...

PAGE B1

The campaign was launched by the Department of Tourism Secretary, Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. last November at the World Travel Market 2015 held in The Gherkin in London. The campaign aims to attract more visitors from all over the world to the Philippines and encourage them to return this year for more fun and feel-good adventures.

As a kick-off to the campaign, the Philippines hosted the ASEAN Tourism Forum on 18 – 25 January 2016 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Similar to Visit Philippines Year 2015, other exciting activities have been lined up to sustain the interest of the traveling public.

Among the major events being showcased are Madrid Fusion Manila 2016 in April for foodies, the MTV Music Evolution 2016 in May for music-lovers and the 2016 Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championship in August for sports and outdoor enthusiasts.

Major musical acts such as Madonna and Andrea Bocelli have scheduled concerts in Manila as well.

As of October 2015, the Department of Tourism has recorded a total of 4,226,489 international tourist arrivals to the Philippines

Consul General-in Action -ConGen Mario De Leon, Jr., offers various travel packages to the Philippines to visitors who visited NY Times Travel Show.

PDOT Representatives and Consul General Mario De Leon, Jr.,man the booth during peak hours last January 9 offering popular travel packages to destinations such as Palawan, Cebu and Boracay.

from January to October 2015. The the same period of the previous figure is an 11.13% increase from year.

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • fEbRUARy 18-24, 2016

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To places less traveled

PAGE B1 Flooded down below sea level during the volcanic birth of Mt. Vulcan in 1871-1875, the gravesite was commemorated by a huge cross erected in 1982. Diving beneath the massive, white cross, you will marvel over the eerie sight of coral laden epitaphs and tombstones. Its neighbor church, the Old Catarman Church, or the GuiOb church, still stands with only a few of its surviving ruins and bell tower saved from the mentioned volcanic eruption. Masses are still celebrated in the open passage of the old church.

Sandbars, white sand, and lofty falls You will be greeted by a number of friendly vendors selling kiping when you reach Katibawasan Falls. This addictive treat is a local delicacy made from grounded sweet potato rolled into thin disks and fried over regular cooking oil.

Drizzled with caramelized coconut milk, this snack is popular among locals and tourists to munch on as you trek along your destination.

Light, sweet, and cheap, kipings are as distinctive as lanzoses are to Camiguin.

Katibawasan and Tuasan falls are Camiguin’s most celebrated natural wonders. Cascading a few hundred feet from the ground, these falls are not your typical commercialized tourists spots. Natural and extremely breathtaking, both these falls offer a simpler, yet inspiring way to enjoy nature.

The Mantigue Island lies near the port area of Camiguin. With a fine, white sand and clear blue waters, this island is one of the best-kept gems of the province.

Still subtly popular, there are only a few private and local lodgings in the island. Unlike the White Island sandbar that is smaller in scale, Mantigue offers a more convenient stay for an overnight trip.

Cagayan de OrO With literal reference to gold, the early inhabitants of this city were depicted to have gold gossamer in their hair. Cagayan de Oro, or Karay han de Oro that roughly translates to rake gold, is a city believed to have been copious with natural resources, especially gold.

Flourishing to be one of Northern Mindanao’s tourist spots, Cagayan de Oro continues to attract tourists as well as local and foreign investors. From the world-famous ziplines and river rafting sites, this city is not just a hub for adventure tourism, but a heaven for a culture

and nature-rich wanderlust.

St. augustine Cathedral Built in 1845 by the Augustinian friars, this cathedral is the main Catholic church and seat of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. Its centuries old stained glass windows were donated by the American Catholics from New York, USA. nature trail at Mapawa nature adventure Park Better than any imprint, the nature park in Mapawa offers a tree planting experience for a good cause. Help plant mahogany trees or explore the ecological park.

The Ranch House offers an affordable bed and breakfast package for a group of five, or more.

Other activities include river trek, horseback riding, bonfire, camping, and canyoneering.

Museum Walk at Museo de Oro: Revisit the past at the Museo de Oro museum. Showcasing the ethnohistory of Northern Mindanao from Prehistoric time, exhibits include fossilized remains of the stegodon found in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental; items used during the Spanish period; ornaments

Camiguin lighthouse

and pieces of jewelry used by the tribes that inhabited the area; weaponry; and a detailed painting depicting the Myths of Creation of selected ethnic communities pertaining to the creation of the universe.

MISaMIS OrIenTaL From the word misa which is a Spanish word for mass, Misamis was originally part of Cebu. The earliest settlers in this area were believed to be Negritos and were later joined by the Malay people with various blends of Mongolian characteristics. In 1929, it was divided into two provinces, Misamis Oriental and Misamis Occidental.

Now known as the Gem of Mindanao, it is the region’s foremost center or trade and development.

Cebu With a swath of historical landmarks and ubiquitous places for food grubs, Cebu has long ushered its way into the hearts of foreign tourists and locals, alike. Popular for its pristine beaches and a buzzing business district, it’s not quite surprising to find new set of adventures in this queen city. From the flower capital Balamban to Cebu’s PAGE B7

Photo by Mary May Portez

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Coco Martin on his journey to fame

By Monet

Lu

“Paloma,” “Cardo” “Daniel Guidotti” “Bestfriend Emman.“—these are just some of the roles he portrayed and yet these are the very characters that were etched in our memories and became part of our lives as avid teleserye fans. Each of the roles are so distinct from each other and yet, all of them attest to the quintessential chameleon acting of Coco martin.

I’ve heard great stories about the young actor. It’s one of those stories that would inspire anyone who is just starting out in the tv and film industry. Such is my delight when I’ve seen how people enjoy his teleserye, “FPJ’s ang Probinsyano.” as I am currently visiting manila for a much-deserved homecoming vacation, I couldn’t help but be amazed at how much things have changed in terms of who is getting more exposure in the entertainment arena. But I am so glad that Coco martin, who is one of the most talented actors of this generation, is getting his share of fame and recognition that he so very much deserved. an online bio of him states: “Coco martin is one of the celebrities in the Philippines that earned his break through the indie scene. Coco or born as Rodel Nacianceno was dubbed as “The Prince of Philippine Independent Films.” Coco was born on November 1, 1981 in Novaliches, Quezon City. He was once an oFW based in alberta, Canada. He worked as a janitor for housekeeping. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree on HRm in National College of Business and arts.”

His website narrates his journey to stardom saying; “While his early years in the limelight were plagued with uncertainty, he still grabbed the opportunity to make every new experience count. Coco was launched as part of Star Circle Batch 9, landing him supporting roles in several films like luv Txt and other television shows. Nothing remarkable came out of this endeavor, so Coco went back to pursue his

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studies, putting his mainstream showbiz career in the backseat.

Coco was already starting to feel comfortable partaking in smaller-scale projects instead, when he came across with Ferdinand lapuz, a respected promoter of Filipino films in international festivals. He offered Coco the lead role in the movie masahista, his initial foray into the independent film genre. Innocent to the provocative nature of the project directed by Brillante mendoza, Coco jumped into the socalled œindie film scene amidst personal doubts in high Coco Martin hopes of competing abroad, so he can seek a better job prospect in another land.”

I guess that explains his great talent in internalizing almost any role that was given to him – including a very beautiful woman cop undercover named, Paloma in the hit series, “FPJ’s ang Probinsyano” (recognized as the Best Primetime Show by Platinum Stallion media awards). In the said series, Coco played the role of twins ador and Cardo who were estranged from each other, yet they both pursued the path of law enforcement. ador was a celebrated police officer, who is married with a kid. Cardo on the other hand, loves the solitude of the mountains as a Special actions Forces Trooper. Their lives take a turn when ador gets murdered due to his entanglement in a syndicate. To cover the crime, Cardo was ordered to become his brother and live his life, and in order to seek justice for his brother’s death.

Coco’s life story as a regular oFW starring in several indie films, to being one of the finest actors in Philippine cinema has taught him – and those who want to be like him – that dedication to one’s craft will reap success, if he or she is just patient, hardworking as most of all, humble.

I admire him for being one of the truest person in showbiz.

He doesn’t try as hard to associate himself to controversial personalities or gimmicks. He

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is just plain, old, down-to-earth “probinsyano” like the character he plays.

Coco also starred in the blockbuster hit and Star Cinema’s entry to mmFF, “Beauty and the Bestie” opposite Vice Ganda. The latter earned over 500 million and was the season’s number 1 top grossing entry.

Throughout Coco’s journey to achieving his dreams, he remained simple, humble and grateful. To date, he has won more than 50 awards and showing no signs of fading out of the limelight. I say this to most of my friends but I say this again to those who admire this young man: It is not always about the destination, sometimes – or more often – it is the journey that makes it all worth it. To Coco martin: congratulations on your journey. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon. com or email him at monetsalon@aol. com

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B february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL Your Immigration Solution atty. RobeRt ReeveS Desperate times call for desperate measures! We have all heard this phrase many times in our lives. But the reality is that these desperate measures often produce disastrous results. In the context of immigration law, the desperate act of marrying someone solely for a green card almost always ends very badly.

Marrying a person solely for a green card is often called a “green card marriage,” but the more official term used by the Us Citizenship and Immigration service (“UsCIs”) is “sham marriage.”

It has been a plotline in multiple Hollywood movies and television shows over the years, including most recently in the primetime drama “On the Wings of Love.”

Health@Heart PhiliP S. Chua, MD, FaCS, FPCS IS wIne really good for our health?

Yes, most particularly red wine, because it contains very potent antioxidants. But the benefits will, of course, depend on other considerations and factors. We do not recommend any alcoholic beverages to pregnant women, persons who are alcoholics or have history of addiction, those with liver, gastrointestinal or other diseases where alcohol is contraindicated, those who are allergic to it, poorly controlled diabetics, etc. or those who do not like alcoholic beverages. persons with a health problem should first consult with their physicians before considering alcoholic beverages. Wine is only for people who enjoy drinking wine, who are in control, and are responsible social imbibers. why IS red wIne better? red wine has been singled out as cardio-protective (good for the heart) because its skin contains phytochemicals, such as resveratrol, that help protect the plant’s self-defense system, and proantho-

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Green card marriages are not a realistic option son for the sole purpose of obtaining a green card. For this reason, they dedicate a substantial amount of resources towards detecting these “sham marriages.” Because of the UsCIs’ efforts, it is crucial that a person applying for a green card on the basis of their marriage understand what the UsCIs considers to be a valid marriage for immigration purposes.

First, the immigrant and their Us citizen spouse must prove that their marriage is “bonafide.” this is not an easy task because the UsCIs officers are highly trained to detect sham marriages. and remember, the UsCIs does not have to prove that the marriage is a sham. the immigrant and their Us citizen spouse must show that they “intended to establish a life together” at the time they entered into their marriage. Oral statements of the immigrant and their Us citizen spouse are not

“On the Wings of Love” is a fictional story about a young Filipina who dreams of coming to the Us for a noble reason – to visit her mother’s gravesite. after entering the Us she is advised to get married to a Us citizen so that she can be granted lawful permanent resident status (“green card”).

Before long there is a payment of $7,500 to a person willing to marry the Filipina. the newlyweds are subsequently coached to stage fake photographs, pretend they are a couple, and even to memorize personal information about their spouse so that they can pass the required interview. though “On the Wings of Love” is a fictional television show, this scenario too often is played out in real life because many people mistakenly believe that marrying a Us citizen is an easy way to obtain a green card. the UsCIs is well aware that many people are willing to marry a per-

Here’s to your health!

small wineries utilizing the old european technique produce wines with higher resveratrol. why the dIfference In reSveratrol contentS? after analyzing several hundreds of wines in his laboratory at Cornell, professor emeritus Le Creasy found that “wine produced in dry climates, like California central valley had lower resveratrol level than from the same variety of grapes grown in humid climates like New York.” how about white wine? resveratrol is found in grape skins and OpC & C in the grape seeds. In red wine, the skins and seeds are included in the fermentation for at least 2 to 3 weeks, while white wine is made from juice that is pressed from the grapes, where the skins and seeds are not included in the fermentation, this explains why only red wine has a significant level of resveratrol, OpC & C. are the more expenSIve red wIneS better?

No, not necessarily. a pinot Noir imported from France, which is much more expensive, is not a better “health drink” than a pinot Noir from New York. an older vintage variety, which, again, is more pricey, might taste better in most cases, especially for connoisseurs,

cyanidins (OpC) and cathechins, which are also powerful antioxidants. and these same substances have been found good for humans. studies at the University of California, Davis, and Cornell University have confirmed the beneficial effect of these potent antioxidants that aid in preventing cancer and heart coronary heart disease. also, the alcohol in it has some sedative and euphoric effects when wine is taken in moderation, and these are healthy for the psyche, especially in these stressful times. are all red wIne the Same?

No, not all red wines are alike or equal as far as the amount of resveratrol they contain. research on seventy red wines from New York rated the pinot Noir to contain the highest amount of this phytochemical, with an average content of 13.6 micromoles per liter, about twice found in Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. the specific wines and vintages with very high level were the ’97 pinot Noir from Benton-Lane Winery in Oregon and the ’98 Noble Muscadine from Dennis Vineyards in North Carolina. Large commercial wineries manipulate their wines more and reduce the resveratrol and other antioxidants as a result;

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PCCHS/ PUPLHS 1996 Golden Jubilee The Philippine College of Commerce High School Laboratory Batch 1966 (now Polytechnic University of the Philippines) will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee from February 20-21 in Manila, Philippines. According to the President of the PCCHS Batch ‘66 Alumni Association, ROLAND ATIENZA, about 55 batchmates from Australia, Canada and USA have confirmed attendance to the Homecoming and 50 from Manila local chapter. Activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee Celebration are as follows: February 20, 2016 -- 6:00-12:00 pm. Formal Program/Dinner at the Banahaw Ballroom, The Legend Villas, Mandaluyong City, Philippines February 21, 2016 -- 8:00 am - 9:00 pm - Visit the ANAWIM Home for the Abandoned Elderly, Montalban, Rizal Province (Fellowship/Lunch/Donate basic needs of the elderly) - Tour of Manila (Former PCCHS in Lepanto, Intramuros Tour (old churches and Cathedral, Rizal Park, Fort Santiago) - Dinner/Cultural Show, at Barbara’s, Intramuros February 22, 2016 - BREAKUP GROUP (To Palawan, Laguna and respective hometown provinces of the guests) For inquiries, please contact the following members of the CORE group: Agnes T. Sule #09165567000 suleagnes@yahoo.com, Roland Atienza #09062947156 atienza8@yahoo.com, Rebecca T. Sayed 09064032624 rebecca.sayed@yahoo.com, Lourdes T. Flores lulutflores@yahoo.com, Rebecca Sayed rebecca.sayed@yahoo.com.

Take the ‘Journey to Success’ at Cal State LA WHAT: Asian American and Pacific Islander students and families are invited to California State University, Los Angeles for “Journey to Success,” a college exposition open to high school and community college students who are interested in Cal State LA. “Journey to Success” will feature workshops on how to prepare and pay for college, information on CSU requirements for admission and application processes, and representatives from Cal State LA and other CSU campuses to answer questions. The outreach event will include free parking, breakfast, special giveaways, college resources and student panels. The college expo is sponsored by the California State University’s (CSU) Asian American and Pacific Islander Initiative.

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm WHERE: The Golden Eagle Ballrooms at Cal State LA. (5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles, CA) For more information and details, please go to calstate.edu/journeytosuccess or call the Office of Outreach and Recruitment at Cal State LA, (323) 343-3839.

MarCH 4-6

GK USA National Summit 2016 There is no better time for Gawad Kalinga (GK) to present the Philippines as the new land of opportunity, with a steadily rising economy--the fastest growing in the world next to China, according to Bloomberg--and alleviating poverty. GK continues to evolve as a movement, starting with philanthropy expanding to sustainability, and creating hybrid, innovative systems to end poverty. The Summit will provide an opportunity for Filipinos, GK volunteers, partners, and millennials to reconnect with their homeland, contribute to their country and social entrepreneurship, and help to build bridges for a thriving nation. Asian Americans will have a taste of the emerging market of world-class, affordable Philippine-made products, such as Bayani Brew, First Harvest Peanut Spreads, Human Nature beauty products, and Theo Philo chocolates. Support GK’s humanitarian efforts to provide home and livelihood to the poorest of the poor, and learn about GK, GK USA, and GK Enchanted Farm programs. The Summit will take place from March 4-6, 2016, at the Radisson Midtown at USC, Los Angeles (3540 S Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90007). To register, please visit gk-usa.org.

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

sufficient, and neither are written statements of friends and family members. On the contrary, the UsCIs will also want to closely examine the conduct of the parties, e.g., is the couple residing together, how long have they known each other, are they conducting themselves as husband and wife, etc. the UsCIs will also consider whether the parties have a sufficient amount of documentation proving the bonafides of their marriage. the UsCIs will also commonly want to ask the immigrant and their Us citizen spouse personal questions about their relationship. the potential questions a person may be asked are nearly limitless, as the UsCIs may ask just about anything they believe a person should know about their spouse.

While you can try and learn as much as possible about your spouse, it is virtually impossible to learn enough about another

person if you are not really married to them. sure you can learn your spouse’s date-of-birth or name of their employer, but how do you expect to know about your spouse’s eating habits unless you actually live together? How are you going to know about your significant other’s daily routine unless you are married? another issue that sometimes comes up is what happens if the Us citizen spouse dies or physically or emotionally harms the immigrant. Despite the breakdown of the marriage, the immigrant may still be eligible to apply for their green card. However, they will still have to prove that the relationship was bonafide at the time of the inception of the marriage. the risks of entering into a “sham marriage” are substantial.

Fines, jail time, but no green card. In fact, the person being petitioned will be barred from ever being petitioned again as an

immigrant, even if the subsequent relationship is bonafide. We all understand that sometimes you may think a “green card marriage” is the only option, but an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney will advise you against following this illegal, and almost sure-to-fail path, despite what you may see on television or in the movies. ***

but not necessarily superior in its antioxidant value. Most winedrinking families drink regular red table wine, but the choice is so personal and according to one’s taste.

Mine is pinot Noir when available, Cabernet sauvignon, second, and Merlot, third.

IS red wIne alSo good agaInSt degeneratIve dISeaSeS? Yes, according to professor susan ebeler of UC Davis, “there’s increasing evidence that red wine contains components which may impart important health-protective effects against a number of degenerative diseases.” at what age Should one Start drInkIng red wIne? In many european countries, preteens are already allowed to imbibe “a little” wine with dinner.

I am not advocating the same for us because our laws have set a legal drinking age, but I am not sure that this practice is unhealthy at all. as a matter of fact, available medical evidence suggests that drinking a glass or two (no more than 3) of red wine is a lot healthier than drinking a couple cans of beers or a shot or two of hard liquor. Wine, in moderation, is a health drink compared to soft drinks, which are toxic and linked to metabolic syndrome, especially among children.

Medically speaking, allowing our

children to smoke cigarettes, not exercise, engulf soft drinks, and skip vegetables, nuts, fruits and fish day in and day out, eating junk foods, is certainly and definitely more unhealthy and dangerous compared to allowing them to drink a little red wine with dinner in a disciplined manner. what IS the drug actIon of alcohol? ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is the potable form of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, unlike methanol (Methyl “Wood” alcohol), which is an industrial solvent, is poison when swallowed. antiseptic rubbing alcohol is Isopropyl alcohol, certainly not for drinking. the mode of action of ethanol is on the central nervous system.

It is a sedative and a depressant, although a small amount (one to two drinks) might appear to act like a “stimulant.” the effect varies in each individual. the same amount could make one “the life and soul of the party,” make another sleepy, and bring out aggression and violence in others. doeS drInkIng Improve Sexual performance? ethanol may make one feel carefree, excited, and merrier, but it does not directly improve sexual prowess. In Macbeth, act 2, scene 3, shakespeare wrote alcohol “provokes the desire but takes away the

performance.” after a glass or two of red wine, and a romantic situation and an appropriate ambiance shakespeare might be wrong, but after 3 or more, he will most likely be right. again, it depends on the personal tolerance of the individual. how much IS “not too much”? the generally recommended “healthy medical dose” for adult is between one and two (at most 3) wine glasses of red wine with lunch and/or dinner. I qualified the type of the glasses because drinking more (improperly using larger or taller glasses) is not necessary to achieve the health benefit from red wine. Wine has to be enjoyed, not endured. so take it as a fun drink and not as a “prescription medicine.”

In the meantime, here’s á votre santé!

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA (Part 1 of 2)

“aFter all the news vans are gone from the crime scene, after the vacuous words of any sitting president have been said, after all references to the story are buried in the inside pages and eventually ground to a halt on the internet, and when the grieving families of victims have no more tears to shed, there is no answer to the question ‘WHY?” Do you still remember the Boston Marathon tale of murder and mayhem on a lovely spring day just a few years ago? two young Muslim Chechen brothers, who together with their families came as refugees 10 years ago and who lived much of their lives on state welfare allegedly committed this heinous assault on american soil. the older terrorist died in a volley of gunfire and after being run over and dragged allegedly by his own brother. the surviving younger brother claim that they, particularly his brother who was the ringleader of the bombing, was angered by the wars in Iraq and afghanistan and are defending attacks on Islam. He is doing time for his crime yet he and his family are without remorse. they murdered 3 innocent bystanders: a boy of 8, a 29 year old woman who was a restaurant manager, a 23 year old Boston University grad student of math and statistics from China and a well-liked 26 year old campus police officer at MIt. the officer was killed by multiple gunshot wounds while in his squad car. another police officer was gunned down. More than 180 people were injured and maimed while more than a dozen spectators have lost their limbs. so many people’s lives were turned upside down by these malcontents. there has been no let-up in violence. Who can forget the heartbreaking murder of innocents in Newtown by a deranged misfit raised by a misguided parent?

Our hearts are heavy and there is a collective pall of gloom among the general population. sadly, violence is a feature of modern life. a cursory glance at the day’s news everywhere around the world indicates that nothing much seems to have changed. We seem to be stuck on some kind of groove from hell. Man’s own inhumanity to man continues unabated and is still at an all-time high.

In 2010, Omar thornton, a black

Atty. Reeves has represented clients in numerous landmark immigration cases that have set new policies regarding INS action and immigrants’ rights. His offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City.

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

(Advertising Supplement)

*** 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. Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com

Pressure cooker violence driver of a beer distribution warehouse, was recorded on video stealing beer from the Connecticut company he was working for.

Confronted with the evidence, he was given the choice to quit or be fired, instead, he pulled out a gun hidden in his lunchbox and blasted away at his superiors, who happen to be all white, and according to one victim who survived the carnage, as “cold as ice” fatally killed eight good people and injured two others before killing himself. the race card was immediately pulled out as a motive among the pundits trying to put a racial spin on the tragedy. the fact remains that one evil man wiped out the lives of eight good, productive people and forever marred the lives of those around him. there’s a common thread — one man driven by religious fanaticism, rage, jealousy, paranoia, desperation, depression over economic pressures, family problems or just plain deranged, decided he can’t take it anymore and instead of committing suicide, decide to inflict murder and mayhem killing several others, either his own family members or total strangers.

In 2009, there were more than 7 mass murders committed by ordinary people, with a total casualty count, including the murderers themselves, of more than 60 people before the first 100 days of the year were over. It is 6 years later and this tragic social phenomenon is still trending upwards. pundits and talking heads predict that as the percentage of the unemployed continues to hold steady as we stay in the grip of a stubborn economic downturn, we can expect more of this type of horror. God forbid. the trend for mass killings is global. Breivik who killed 77 Norwegians in 2011, most of whom were teen-agers is in jail serving a paltry 21 years. His only regret is not being able to kill more. ever since the Columbine mass murder perpetrated by 2 young misguided misfits garbed in black trench coats more than 10 years ago, things haven’t been the same. there were copycats exhibiting lemming-like behavior since then. evil glamorized by repetition and attention-getting drama seems to have morphed into many other incidents in North america and elsewhere, resulting in incalculable, untold pain and suffering among families of the victims.

Who can forget the theater killings in Colorado? Who can forget the great pain inflicted by the Virginia tech mass murder which snuffed out the lives of 32, including Cho, the killer, who was a quiet, deranged malcontent who

never quite fit in.

Many noted that perpetrators of this troubling trend were often the quiet ones. We are now told to watch out for the quiet “pressure cooker” types, those who never cause a ripple, are withdrawn and spend hours on the internet and who find ways to circumvent the many state gun laws in place and and explode with volcanic intensity and wipe out those around them. a young mentally troubled gun enthusiast from alabama, depressed over his life and who kept mostly to himself, killed 5 members of his own family and 5 other total strangers at random in a barrage of gunfire before taking his own life.

He was a Vietnamese immigrant named Jiverly Wong, aka Vuong, a quiet, social misfit, driven by severe paranoia and frustrated over his “poor life” and poor english skills, gunned down 12 others in an immigrant center, 10 of whom came from 8 countries and who were students just trying to learn english as a second language.

One was a Filipina, Dolores Yigal, then, a recent immigrant who was studying so she could find a job. One was a long time substitute teacher named roberta King. One was an Iraqi woman who survived 3 car bombs in her native Iraq and left behind a devastated family, a daughter at the sorbonne in paris and another daughter, a Fulbright scholar. all these lives were cut off by one sorry excuse for a human being in one fell swoop. among ordinary families from all strata and from nearly every ethnic group, there has also been a rash of killings among fathers who have decided to kill themselves because of their failures and are taking their whole family with them. On rare occasions, it is a mother who does it. sometimes, the sick and the elderly decide to take matters into their own hands and end it all. the murder suicide rate among families is on the rise, thankfully not in epidemic proportions just yet as to cause panic. perhaps, some of this is fueled by the effects of crumbling social and cultural mores. Or this could simply be the effects of the economic downturn. some are unable to cope with mounting financial pressures. and yet to merely focus on economics as the root of this troubling phenomenon is shortsighted and misses the whole point.

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

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Heart feels ‘lucky’ not to have What’s in store... a ‘political monster’ spouse PAGE B1

MANILA — With the elections just a few months away, Heart Evangelista expressed gratitude that her husband, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero who is running for vice president, knows how to keep political tension at bay.

“I’m lucky that I don’t have like a political monster husband. He’s very relaxed. He never made me feel like he’s galit sa mundo or super stressed,” Heart said in an interview with Philstar.com.

According to Heart, both of

them try hard to live a normal life and stay away from the tension as much as possible.

Asked if she feels pressured for his husband, who is the running mate of Sen. Grace Poe, Heart said: “I don’t really feel pressured. Just a little bit siguro because it’s his number one love, and his passion, pero okay lang.”

Heart said that despite being busy with the campaign and his political career, Chiz remains supportive of her career.

“He is super supportive (with my painting career). In fact, he is the one who bought me my canvasses and brushes and said you know what, you should start painting,” shared the actress turned artist.

Heart recently collaborated with designer Mark Bumgarner for a fashion gala. The event showcased 40 well-designed tailored dresses, 15 of which are masterfully handpainted by Heart herself. (Philstar. com)

Regine Velasquez

He should be alert to spot the opportunity and not let it pass him by.

He must make his family a priority to avoid misunderstanding.

Regine Velasquez (Year of the Dog) The auspicious stars are coming from the direction of the Rooster and the Boar—her allies who could wield important influences on her luck this year. It will be a promising year. But she needs to be careful of the Quarrelsome Star. She must not allow herself to get provoked to a fight.

To places less traveled

PAGE B3 very own shoe (and chicharon) capital Carcar, its not just about lechon anymore. Read on.

Whale shark (butanding) watching in Tanawan, Oslob Despite having to endure the blazing sun without sunblock (the use of sunscreen creams and sprays are strictly prohibited to protect the whale sharks from digesting potentially harmful chemicals), the whale shark encounter will leave you breathless and agape with wonder. We recommend to skip the boat ride and dive right into the waters to swim with the butandings for a more unforgettable experience.

Simala Clinging on the upper Lindogon area in barangay Simala in the town of Sibonga, this grand, baroque style church was built by the congregation of Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration in 1998. The very image of the Virgin Mary brought from Pampanga was believed to have shown miracles during an epidemic that have killed many in the said community. Other claims are of the image’s shedding tears of blood, while the sundry of petition letters displayed along the halls are confirmation of the church’s promise to grant miracles

to the faithful.

Historical walk along Argao Comparable with Vigan’s Calle Crisologo, the town of Argao is a charming window to Cebu’s rich history. Known to have one of the most well preserved cabacera (town center) in the country with traces of the Spanish and early American influences on the majority of its coral stone structures, Argao is a quaint sanctuary of culture, food, and craftsmanship.

The 250-year old rococo-baroque church of St. Michael the Archangel. Completed in 1788, the interior paintings depicting

Cagayan De Oro

different scenes from the bible were painted by the renowned Visayan artists Canuto Avila and Raymundo Francia in the early 20th century.

Diving and Snorkeling in Nalusuan and Hilutungan Yes, among other remarkable diving spots in Cebu, these two are among the burgeoning diving spots because of its Marine Reserve and its accessibility to nearby resorts like the Bluewater Resort in Sumilon Island. (This article was first published in the December 2015 issue of Balikbayan Magazine)

Photo by Mary May Portez

LAS VEGAS ASIAN JOURNAL • fEbRUARy 18-24, 2016

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B february 18-24, 2016 • LaS VeGaS aSIaN JOurNaL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (702) 792-6678

HILLARY CLINTON Our fighter. Our defender.

Our champion.

They call her names.

She continues.

They call us names.

We continue.

We don’t quit.

Together with Hillary Clinton, we fight for a fair minimum wage and access to affordable care for our parents and children. And as President, Hillary won’t quit until our work is finished.

CAUCUSING FOR HILLARY CLINTON IS EASY! Just follow these four simple steps.

1. Find your caucus location at NVDems.com/Caucus or by calling 702-737-8683.

If you’re not already registered to vote, don’t worry—you can register when you get there!

2. Show your support for your candidate.

You’ll stand in a corner of the room reserved for Hillary with your neighbors and friends.

3. Make your voice heard and be counted!

The precinct chair will count the number of supporters for each candidate. You’ll have an opportunity to tell others why you support Hillary, and you might even be able to persuade some to support her, too!

4. Leave the caucus and be proud that you helped make history.

Thank you for helping build a better future for working families!

Make your voice heard.

Caucus for Hillary Clinton on Saturday, February 20 Î11am Paid for by SEIU COPE, SEIU.org. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.