Las Vegas Edition -- January 14 -- 20, 2016

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CONSTANTE AJPress

THE Philippine Supreme Court on Tuesday, Jan. 12, upheld the constitutionality of an executive agreement between the Philippines and the United States that permits increased rotational presence of US military troops in the country. In a 10-4-1 vote, the top court ruled in favor of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), which was signed by the Philippines and US in 2014 but was not implemented due to legal challenges. The agreement, which has a 10-year lifespan, also allows troops access to Philippine military

DATELINE

bases. Furthermore, the US will be allowed to store and pre-position weapons, defense supplies, vessels, and aircraft, among other things. The decision comes amid the ongoing dispute between the Philippines and China regarding conflicting claims in the South China Sea involving six Asian governments competing for control of small islands in the region. It will also support US efforts to reassert its presence in Asia, the Associated Press reported. The US has also indicated it opposes China’s claims in the disputed territory, citing the need for freedom of navigation in the area, GMA News reported.

The Court’s ruling is based on Article 18, Section 25 of the Philippine Constitution, “which allows the president to enter in an executive agreement on foreign military bases if it is not an instrument that allows foreign military bases or it aims to implement existing law or treaty holding that EDCA is one such agreement,” Supreme Court spokesman Theodore Te said, according to GMA News. Among those in agreement with the decision was the Department of Foreign Affairs, stating the Philippines and US can finalize the full implementation of an agreement that is key in efforts to bolster G8>< 8)

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In last State of Union speech, Obama has hopeful message for America’s future

USA

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Hillary Clinton seeks support from Fil-Am, AAPI voters

by CHRISTINA

M. ORIEL

AJPress

and beyond,” Obama said. ”I want to focus on our future.” In a roughly hourlong primetime speech — one of his last chances to capture Americans’ attention before the November election — the president remarked that it is “a time of extraordinary change,” a condition that has “made the progress of these past seven years possible.” Some of the accomplishments he chose to highlight early on were: economic recovery, the passage of the landmark Afford-

able Care Act and the historic Supreme Court ruling on samesex marriage. Obama took a swipe at opponents who have undermined the state of the economy under his tenure, asserting “a basic fact” that the United States has the “strongest, most durable economy in the world.” He reported that over 14 million jobs have been created and the once failing auto industry had a record year in 2015. G8>< 8*

PRESIDENT Barack Obama delivered his seventh and final State of the Union address on Tuesday, HUNDREDS of Asian American and Jan. 12, in which he focused Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), including elected on the country’s future and his officials and busloads of Filipino-Americans legacy as president, rather than from across California and Nevada, flocked urging Congress to pass specific to the San Gabriel Hilton on Thursday, Jan. proposals. 7 to rally their support behind Democratic “For my final address to this presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton. chamber, I don’t want to talk just Part of her two-day campaign stop in Southern California, Clinton’s appearance Gi\j`[\ek 9XiXZb FYXdX [\c`m\ij _`j j\m\ek_ Xe[ ÔeXc JkXk\ f] k_\ Le`fe X[[i\jj about the next year. I want to focus N_`k\ ?flj\ g_fkf Yp G\k\ JflqX on the next five years, 10 years, at the launch of AAPIs for Hillary was an fe Kl\j[Xp# AXe% ()% effort to appeal to that population, which is considered the fastest-growing minority group in the country that could be the critical swing vote in the next several presidenby FRANCES MANGOSING tial election cycles. He said the group on the in Mindanao. Inquirer.net And what better place to reach them “The video may be authen- video is merely riding on the than in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, THE Armed Forces of the tic, kinuha yun ng mga tunay popularity of the international where over half of its residents are of Asian Philippines has denied anew the na tao na andun. But sa back- terror group. descent. “Those are propaganda. We existence of the Islamic State ground nun, kung meron ba taTaking the stage after an introduction jihadists in the Philippines. laga silang pinanghahawakan consider them as propaganda. by Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) — the first ChiThis was after a video circulat- sa likod, wala. You can just They are not ISIS,” Detoyato nese-American woman elected to Congress ing online showed consolidated gather a group of people, let said. — Clinton said being in the area holds a militant groups in Mindanao them wear black and say ISIS He said the Abu Sayyaf, G8>< 8+ with black flags claiming their kami. That does not mean may Ansar al- Khalifa and the links to the IS. A report said ISIS dito,” AFP public affairs Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom that it suggested that the IS may chief Colonel Noel Detoyato Fighters are sympathizers of soon put up a satellite extension said on Monday, Jan. 11. G8>< 8) ;i% I_`^\c 8c]fihl\ KXe `j jnfie `e Yp ?fefiXYc\ Al[^\ :_\ipc Dfjj Xj Gi\j`[\ek f] k_\

No IS jihadists in PH; video mere propaganda -AFP

Trump: Syrian refugees ‘could be ISIS’ Binay’s vow: No Filipino will be forced to work abroad Silent Muslim protester by NESTOR

CORRALES Inquirer.net

removed from campaign rally

GOP frontrunner Donald Trump said Syrian refugees are “probably” ISIS during a campaign rally in South Carolina that was quickly disrupted by protesters, including a Muslim woman wearing a traditional head covering. Refugees from Syria “could be ISIS ... and by the way, it is turning out that they probably are ISIS,” said Trump at a Winthrop University rally in Rock Hill, South Carolina. “There’s so many men, they’re so young, they are very strong. Where are the women? Where are the children?” During his speech, a woman wearing a traditional hijab stood in silent protest and was swiftly escorted by police, along with a few other anti-Trump hecklers, NBC News reported. Some Trump supporters jeered and booed the woman, who was identified as 56-year-old Rose Hamid. She was wearing a T-shirt that read “Salam, I come in peace.” G8>< 8*

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AJ FOOTER AD

WORKING abroad will become “a matter of choice and not necessity” was how Vice President Jejomar Binay assured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) if elected president in the 2016 elections. Binay was in a three-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which started on Tuesday, Jan. 12, to strengthen bilateral ties with Middle East countries, home to over 2.7 million OFWs. Binay said that this will be achieved by his projected administration by providing more jobs in the Philippines. “Mahirap higitan ang uri ng pagmamahal na araw-araw ninyong inaalay. Ang paglaban sa lungkot at pangungulila sa inyong pamilya at sariling tahanan, ang G8>< 8)

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Fil-Am sworn in as president of Nevada State Board of Nursing by

ALLYSON ESCOBAR AJPress

Filipino-American Dr. Rhigel Jay Alforque-Tan took oath as president of the Nevada State Board of Nursing on Jan. 6, in a ceremony presided by Honorable Judge Cheryl Moss and joined by Honorable Judge Bill Henderson. Tan’s election makes him the first Asian American male elected to the position in the 92 years of the board’s existence. Originally from Cebu, Philippines, Tan came from humble beginnings, making ends meet by peddling bananacue (caramelized bananas on sticks) and boiled eggs. He had dreams of going to medical school to

become a doctor, but given his financial situation, he took nursing instead. At the Cebu State CollegeCebu City Medical Center College of Nursing (CCMC), he graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s of science in nursing in 1990, then migrated to the United States years later. “Being educated in the Philippines brings with it the responsibility to influence the nursing profession in a global perspective,” Tan previously told the Asian Journal. “Beyond just making a living, [nurses] should also be involved in promoting public safety through participation in regulatory

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

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G8>< 8( national security and disaster relief capabilities, according to The Associated Press (AP). “This decision bodes well for deepening our defense cooperation with a key ally,� and will “redound to improving our capability to perform our mandate to protect our people and secure the state,� said armed forces chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri, AP reported. Washington welcomed the court’s ruling. In a statement, the US Embassy in Manila said the United States welcomes the high court’s decision and that it is a mutually beneficial pact and would strengthen the two countries’ bilateral relationship. “We look forward to working closely with our Philippine partners on the implementation of this agreement,� the statement said. The Court emphasized that the EDCA is an executive agreement, not a treaty requiring Senate concurrence. It added that the president has the option to select a form of agreement that is not a treaty, as long as it is not the principal agreement that first allowed foreign military bases, troops or facilities entry or presence in the Philippines. “EDCA is not constitutionally infirm as an executive agreement,� Te said during a news conference following the ruling. PH vows to work on implementation of EDCA During the second Philippine-US 2 plus 2 Ministerial Consultations on Tuesday, Jan. 12, top diplomats from the Philippines and United States met at the State Department, following the high court’s ruling in favor of the EDCA, US Defense Secretary Ash Carter said both countries discussed how the defense pact could be used to fortify maritime security capabilities and strengthen their role to maintain peace in the region, Inquirer reported. Carter added that the Philippines is an important ally, as the US looks to increase its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, Inquirer reported. Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario also spoke favorably of the agreement. “The recent validation by the Supreme Court of the constitutionality of the EDCA opens up new opportunities to further deepen our enduring alliance with the US, and we have committed to work towards the prompt and mutually beneficial of this agreement,� del Rosario said in an email detailing the meeting.

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US Secretary of State John Kerry said the United States has an “ironclad commitment� to the Philippines’ security and that they share a commitment to democracy and human rights, according to Inquirer. Del Rosario also said the Philippines is exploring the possibility of joint activities with the United States in the South China Sea, but stopped short of saying they were entertaining the prospect of joint patrols, according to Inquirer. Other topics of discussion at the meeting focused on maritime security, maritime domain awareness, and the 2nd Millennium Challenge Compact for the Philippines. It will build on the success of the first compact, which has helped alleviate poverty, contributed to inclusive growth and contributed to eliminating poverty. The meeting took place as both countries approach the 70th anniversary since they established diplomatic relations. Opponents Despite praise from advocates, the pact has faced opposition from groups and individuals who argue it is more beneficial to the United States than the Philippines. Other opponents, including Justice for Filipino Americans (JFAV), a nationwide alliance of Filipino World War II veterans organizations and community advocates, say the benefits of the court’s decision to uphold the agreement are “superficial� because it has “disturbed� the balance of powers between the branches of government. “They are using the constitution against the constitution,� Arturo Garcia, national coordinator of JFAV, told the Asian Journal. “They are circumventing the process because [EDCA] should be a treaty, not an executive agreement.... The US is not accountable to the Philippines because

it’s a mere agreement - it’s not a treaty.â€? Garcia added that the decision “reeksâ€? of opportunism. “We don’t have respect for the Supreme Court because they are subservient to foreign interests,â€? he said. Left-wing activists in the Philippines said they would consider filing an appeal. Opponents also said increasing US military presence would not address the Philippines’ concerns about China in the disputed territory. “This is another sad day for Philippine sovereignty,â€? said leftwing activist Renato Reyes, who was among those who challenged the legality of the defense accord before the high court, according AP. “We maintain that the EDCA is not the solution to the problems of China’s incursions.â€? Some, including former senators, filed petitions against the EDCA, but were denied by the Supreme Court. One petition filed by former senators Rene Saguisag and Wigberto TaĂąada said that the terms and provisions of the EDCA were “lopsided in favor of the Americans.â€? Another petition stated that the agreement would give the United States “carte blanche power to establish and operate de facto military bases anywhere on Philippine soil, minus the cost of paying for one.â€? The Philippines has one of the weakest armed forces in Asia, GMA News reported, and has been heavily dependent on US military aid for weapons and training. The AP reported that the Philippine military said at least eight local camps have been designated as harboring areas for Americans, including some near the South China Sea and in areas susceptible to natural disasters.

G8>< 8( hirap ng kondisyon ng trabaho sa ibang bayan, ang mga pangambang bunga ng pagiging isang dayuhan – ilan lamang ito sa araw-araw ninyong pagsubok bilang isang OFW. (It’s hard to top the kind of love you offer everyday. Your battle against depression and homesickness, the difficulty of working abroad, and the fear of being in a foreign land—these are some of the challenges OFWs encounter everyday),� he said. He said he envisioned OFWs to “come home to a progressive and caring country that can support Filipinos’ aspirations of a good life.� “Isang bayan na kayo naman ang kayang alagaan at protektahan. Sama-sama tayong magtataguyod ng isang lipunan na walang mapipilitang mangibang-bansa para guminhawa. (I envision a country that will take care of you and protect you. Let us work together to form a society where people will not be forced

to work abroad so they can gain comfort),� he said. “Lubos ang aking paninindigan na uuwi kayo sa isang maunlad at mapag-kalingang Pilipinas – kung saan ang maginhawang buhay ay makakamit sa sarili nating bayan, kapiling ang bawat Pilipinong minamahal ninyo sa buhay. (I am confident that you will be able to come home to a developed and compassionate Philippines—where you can attain a comfortable life in our own country with all the Filipino people you love),� he added. Binay was a former Presidential Adviser for OFW Concerns under the Aquino administration. The vice president reiterated his proposal to create a special government office that will help families whose OFW relatives are facing “blood money� cases. During his first day, Binay met with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE’s Armed Forces, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In a statement on Wednesday, the vice president said the meeting was “very warm and cordial.� “The meeting was a surprise, we were told only this (Tuesday) morning. It wasn’t part of the schedule. But it’s a good opportunity,� Binay said. “Sheikh Mohammad said he would very much like to visit the Philippines in the future,� the vice president added. He said they also discussed potential investment opportunities in areas of power and infrastructure in the Philippines. He also had lunch with 39 wards of the Philippine Labor Office, among them victims of maltreatment and human trafficking. He promised to provide assistance to facilitate their return to the country. He asked Senator Nancy Binay, who is part of the delegation, to look into the possibility of extending help even to undocumented G8>< 8*

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Fil-Am sworn in as president of Nevada...

G8>< 8( tasks.â€? He added, “Filipino nurses are not only world-class care providers, but also global professionals capable of contributing to general welfare and safety of the public.â€? With only $200 in his pocket and the H1-A visa (or temporary work permit for nurses) that he received from the US Embassy, Tan moved to the United States after being hired by a nursing home in Las Vegas. There, he took on the tasks of a nursing assistant, such as bathing patients, helping them use the bedpan, and changing their diapers. In 1995, Tan passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses [NCLEX-RN], allowing him as a nursing assistant in healthcare to become a professional licensed Registered Nurse. He also worked with Nathan Adelson Hospice to start a program for nursing students to be “Hospice-orientedâ€? and educated in Hospice Principles. The program’s success garnered $85,000 in funding by the MGM Mirage Foundation, and was later presented at the National Hospice Leadership Convention in Washington, D.C. D\dY\ij f] k_\ 8Yl JXppX] >iflg 8J> _f`jk YcXZb Ă•X^j Xe[ j_flk As a health care professional, X]k\i Xcc\^\[cp gc\[^`e^ Xcc\^`XeZ\ kf k_\ @jcXd`Z JkXk\ f] @iXh Xe[ Tan has focused on researching Jpi`X @J@J %

No IS jihadists in PH; video mere... G8>< 8( the IS in the Philippines. Detoyato said they are keeping an eye on these groups, despite the lack of possibility that the IS will put an extension in the Philippines. “Wala namang ISIS dito‌.There is a difference between ISIS-directed and ISIS-inspired,â€? he said. Other videos of Philippine militants showing support for IS circulated in the past but the government has repeatedly denied the existence of the group in the Philippines.

Binay’s vow: No Filipino will be...

and developing an EvidencedBased Practice (EBP) training program along fellow educated nurses, and the use of human patient simulation technology in nursing. Over the years, he crafted policies and procedures that impacted the outcomes of his patient’s lives patient satisfaction. He also established a program accredited by the Nevada State Board of Nursing to help jobless Nevadans get back in the work force as Certified Nursing Assistants, and provided them with opportunities to work in a skilled nursing facility. Tan’s program helped 200 successful nursing candidates get back into the work force. Based on a vision that is informed by personal experience, commitment and a deep passion for education, Dr. Tan became a clinical instructor in Nursing at the Community College of Southern Nevada (CCSN), and as a college professor, was awarded tenure in 2005. He soon joined the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), College of Nursing, becoming an assistant professor and finishing his doctorate in nursing practice in 2011. Tan’s positive influence in promoting nursing as a career did not go unnoticed. He was awarded “Health Care Hero� by the Nevada Business Community and Anthem Blue Cross. His passion for medical research also paved the way for multiple Nursing Education studies and publications in several international journals. Continuing his passion for community service, Tan established a mental and psychiatric clinic to provide services for Las Vegas and Clark County residents. He also founded a mental health non-profit called The Goal Foundation, which raises awareness in decreasing social stigma attached to mental illness, and to outreach to communities about the biological and genetic component of mental health issues. In November 2011, Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval appointed Tan to the Nevada State Board of Nursing, with an appointed term until November 2015. He lobbied for the passage of Assembly Bill 170, which allowed autonomous practice for Advanced Practice Nurses,

and became Nevada law in July 2013. Tan was also a member of the Nevada State Board of Nursing Advisory Committee for Advanced Practice Nursing from 2008-2010, the Clark County Emergency Corps, and the Zetta Kappa Chapter of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nurses, according to his biography. Along with multiple recognitions and awards, Tan is also actively involved in the Asian American community of Las Vegas, particularly among his fellow Filipinos. He co-founded the KALAHI Philippine Folkloric Ensemble, a cultural community-based organization aimed to unite the community through preservation and promotion of the Filipino heritage through arts and culture. He was a board member of the Philippine Nurses Association of Nevada, and initiated the formation of an EBP Committee of the association. He also spearheaded a fundraising campaign during the 2013 Philippine Typhoon Haiyan, raising enough money to build a new settlement in the typhoon-ravaged Leyte islands. The settlement was named “Las Vegas Village.� Through his Yolanda AlforqueTan Scholarship Foundation, named after his mother, and the Maria Libron Nursing Scholarship Foundation, Tan assisted 20 young scholars in the Philippines who have shared the same vocation of service and dedication, but could not afford the cost of education. The scholarship has helped students become full-time nurses. Sandoval re-appointed Tan as a board member of the nursing board on Dec. 16, 2015. Despite Tan’s various accomplishments, he is now pursuing his second Doctorate degree in nursing at the University of Arizona, focusing on genetics and genomics. “I made my own story [a] guiding encouragement for [other Filipino nurses] to achieve a sense of professional achievement even while away from the Philippines,� he said. (With reports from Amelia Abello and Dymphna Calica-La Putt/AJPress)

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Trump: Syrian refugees ‘could be... G8>< 8( Other protesters wore yellow eight-pointed stars with the words “Muslim” and “Stop Islamophobia” written on them, symbolizing the Nazis’ treatment of the Jews during the Holocaust (where the Jews were forced to wear sixpointed stars). Women in headscarves have protested silently at two previous Trump rallies, but were not removed. In December, Trump caused an uproar when he called for a temporary ban on all Muslims entering the US, including Muslim American citizens, tourists and those trying to enter the country on visas. Trump described his proposal as “very salient, very important, and probably not politically correct.” Despite Hamid’s silence, Trump supporters around her began chanting Trump’s name, jeering and pointing at her and Marty Rosenbluth, the man alongside her who stood up as well. Members of the crowd roared as the pair was escorted out of the rally, booing and shouting at them to “get out,” reported CNN. One person shouted, “You have a bomb, you have a bomb,” Hamid said. “The ugliness really came out fast and that’s really scary.” She also said she did not plan to shout or disrupt the event, but simply wanted to give Trump and his supporters a real idea of how Muslims are, through the silent protest. “I figured that most Trump supporters probably never met a Muslim so I figured that I’d give

them the opportunity to meet one,” she told CNN before the rally on Jan. 8. “I really don’t plan to say anything. I don’t want to be disrespectful but if he says something that I feel needs answering I might--we’ll just see what strikes me.” Major Steven Thompson of the Rock Hill Police Department told CNN Hamid was kicked out of the event because the campaign told him beforehand that “anybody who made any kind of disturbance” should be escorted out. The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment asking why Hamid was escorted out of the venue. “There is hatred against us that is unbelievable,” Trump said, immediately after the disturbance. “It’s their hatred, it’s not our hatred.” Within hours, leading Muslim advocacy group, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), condemned Hamid’s removal from the rally, and called on Trump to apologize publicly. “The image of a Muslim woman being abused and ejected from a political rally sends a chilling message to American Muslims and to all those who value our nation’s traditions of religious diversity and civic participation,” CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said in a statement. “Donald Trump should issue a public apology to the Muslim woman kicked out of his rally and make a clear statement that American Muslims are welcome as fellow citizens and as participants in the nation’s political process.” In his rally proposal, which are

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viewed by many as anti-Muslim, Trump also lashed out at President Barack Obama and Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton. “In Los Angeles, in California, you had the two people, the two wackos that came in,” he said, referencing the radicalized Muslim couple in San Bernardino, who killed 14 people during a shooting rampage. “How about that? Came in on a what, a marriage visa?” One of the perpetrators, Syed Rizwan Farook, was born in the US, while his wife, Tashfeen Malik, immigrated through a marriage license. “And we have a president, we have a president that doesn’t even want to talk about what’s really happening,” he added. “We have a president that wants to kill the second amendment...We have Hillary Clinton who wants to destroy and take your guns away from you, by the way. She wants to take your guns away.” Despite her chaotic early exit, Hamid was able to speak with the Trump supporters sitting around her in the stands, several of whom held her hand and said “sorry” as she was forced to leave the venue. “The people around me who I had an opportunity to talk with were very sweet,” she commented, remaining optimistic. “The people I did not make contact with, the people who Trump influenced were really nasty.” “This demonstrates how when you start dehumanizing the other it can turn people into very hateful, ugly people. It needs to be known.” (Allyson Escober/AJPress)

Binay’s vow: No Filipino will be...

G8>< 8) Filipino workers by setting up a special assistance fund. The vice president also visited Philippine Global School-Abu Dhabi, an all-Filipino primary and secondary academic institution of more than 2,000 students. Meanwhile, migrant group Migrante-Middle East (M-ME) has urged Binay to also visit hundreds of distressed and stranded OFWs in Saudi Arabia. “We are urging VP Binay to consider having a side trip here in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar, all in Saudi Arabia, so that he too can personally hear the appeal of the hundreds of distressed and stranded OFWs staying at various Filipino Workers Resource Centers (FWRCs)

or Bahay Kalinga,” said M-ME regional coordinator John Leonard Monterona. Monterona said there are about a hundred distressed female OFWs at the Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh, while about 60 male OFWs are stranded at a rented shelter in Exit 8, Riyadh. Most of them have been victims of labor malpractices, and physical and sexual abuse, he said. The migrant leader said the distressed and stranded OFWs have long been pleading for the Philippine government’s assistance. “One of the stranded OFWs at Riyadh’s Bahay Kalinga is Fahima Alagasi Palacasi who was allegedly scalded by the mother of her employer. Since then, she is still staying at the Bahay Kalinga for

more than 2 years,” Monterona said. Monterona said Palacasi wanted to convey to Binay her plea for her to repatriated so that she can be with her two kids in Mindanao and start working again to support her kids. He said Palacasi was still awaiting the outcome of the cases she filed and the counter-case filed by the mother of her employer which she said is taking so long. “We call on VP Binay to come here in Saudi Arabia since he is already in the UAE. He often visited Saudi Arabia in previous years. This time not as a presidential candidate but in his capacity as PH vice president or maybe as an OFW advocate,” Monterona said.

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In last State of Union speech, Obama has... G8>< 8( “Anyone claiming that America’s economy is in decline is peddling fiction. Now, what is true -- and the reason that a lot of Americans feel anxious -- is that the economy has been changing in profound ways, changes that started long before the Great Recession hit; changes that have not let up,” he noted. On health care, the president said “nearly 18 million people have gained coverage so far. And in the process, health care inflation has slowed. And our businesses have created jobs every single month since it became law.” However, there is work that still needs to be done, such as “give everyone a fair shot at opportunity and security,” “make technology work for us,” “keep America safe and lead the world” and “make politics reflect what’s best in us.” The president chose not to go deep into policy prescriptions for Congress — recognizing that not much might get done in an election year — but mentioned his goals for the remainder of his term include closing Guantanamo Bay prison, authorizing use of military force against ISIS, and looking into a “new moonshot” that can cure cancer, an initiative that will be led by Vice President Joe Biden. “And because he’s gone to the mat for all of us on so many issues over the past 40 years, I’m putting Joe in charge of Mission Control. For the loved ones we’ve all lost, for the families that we can still save, let’s make America the country that cures cancer once and for all,” he said.

Not directly naming any of the Republican presidential candidates, Obama slammed rhetoric that “enemies [are] getting stronger and America [is] getting weaker” and said that the Islamic State is not a threat to the country’s existence. “The United States of America is the most powerful nation on Earth. Period. It’s not even close. We spend more on our military than the next eight nations combined,” he said. “Our troops are the finest fighting force in the history of the world…when it comes to every important international issue, people of the world do not look to Beijing or Moscow to lead — they call us.” The president went on to address hateful sentiments targeting Muslims, arguing it betrayed American values. “When politicians insult Muslims, whether abroad or our fellow citizens, when a mosque is vandalized, or a kid is called names, that doesn’t make us safer. That’s not telling it like it is,” he said. “It’s just wrong. It diminishes us in the eyes of the world. It makes it harder to achieve our goals. It betrays who we are as a country.” Though most of the speech was about his accomplishments, Obama recognized one of his shortcomings: failing to ease the political divide in the country. “It’s one of the few regrets of my presidency — that the rancor and suspicion between the parties has gotten worse instead of better,” he said. “There’s no doubt a president with the gifts of Lincoln or Roosevelt might have better bridged the divide, and I guaran-

tee I’ll keep trying to be better so long as I hold this office.” But ending with a glimmer of hope (one of his campaign messages in 2008), he gave examples of the diverse demographics of the country. “That’s the America I know. That’s the country we love. Cleareyed. Big-hearted. Undaunted by challenge. Optimistic that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word. That’s what makes me so hopeful about our future. I believe in change because I believe in you, the American people,” the president concluded, which was met with applause. “And that’s why I stand here confident as I have ever been that the State of our Union is strong.” Reactions Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton released a series of messages on Twitter, including “@POTUS is confirming what we know: Our economy — and our country — are stronger under a Democratic president.” Arnel Dino, vice chair of the Filipino-American Democratic Caucus of the California Democratic Party, told the Asian Journal that the president will be remembered for “trying to change the tone of our political system. He really made the attempt to better the economy and increase access for groups to be part of the system… He wants to leave a legacy of collaboration and cooperation between the different political factions in our country.” “Whoever succeeds him, hopefully a Democrat, should continue G8>< 8+

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In last State of Union speech, Obama has... Hillary Clinton seeks support from Fil-Am... G8>< 8*

on his [progress] and not go back to where the country was before he was president.” Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calif.) said the speech “was just what our country needed” — “reassurance about the terrorist threat. And yet it also needed to hear that we should not scapegoat one another, and appreciate the diversity of our country,” according to NBC News. Another Asian American lawmaker Rep. Mike Honda (D-Calif.) praised the speech, but emphasized that comprehensive immigration reform is crucial. “The need for immigration reform cannot be forgotten. Any serious proposal advanced by Congress to achieve this should be comprehensive,” said Honda in a statement released on Tuesday night. Honda shared plans to reintroduce the Reuniting Families Act and gave the example of his guest Fil-Am Irene Bueno, who “is a reminder of why our nation needs a families-first immigration policy—her family was separated for 20 years by our heart-wrenchingly slow immigration laws.” Meanwhile, Republicans took to

Twitter to share their reactions. GOP frontrunner Donald Trump described the speech as “really boring, slow, lethargic,” while former Florida Governor Jeb Bush wrote “President Obama is living in a different world to think our country is safer and stronger,” and Ted Cruz called it “a state of denial.” Cruz and Sen. Rand Paul, both candidates in the Republican field, were not present for the president’s address. Fil-Am Matthew Alonsozana tweeted that “Despite the rhetoric, it’s clear Pres. Obama is drawing a pretty partisan framework for the election.” After the president’s remarks, South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley delivered the GOP response and said Obama’s record hasn’t lived up to his promises. “Barack Obama’s election as president seven years ago broke historic barriers and inspired millions of Americans. As he did when he first ran for office, tonight President Obama spoke eloquently about grand things. He is at his best when he does that,” she said. ”Unfortunately, the president’s record has often fallen far short

of his soaring words.” Haley refuted Obama’s positive view of the economy, health care and safety, contending that Americans are suffering from “a crushing national debt,” health care has become less affordable and accessible and cities across the US are experiencing “chaotic unrest.” Shifting away from taking jabs at the president, the governor even criticized others within her own party. “Today, we live in a time of threats like few others in recent memory. During anxious times, it can be tempting to follow the siren call of the angriest voices. We must resist that temptation,” she said “No one who is willing to work hard, abide by our laws, and love our traditions should ever feel unwelcome in this country.” While placing some blame on Democrats, Haley said “they do not bear it alone,” and called on Republicans “to recognize our contributions to the erosion of the public trust in America’s leadership. We need to accept that we’ve played a role in how and why our government is broken. And then we need to fix it.”

G8>< 8( personal meaning to her. “When I think about this part of California, the first thing I think about is my mom, and how kind people were to her here when her own family was not,” Clinton said, as she recalled her mother who worked as a maid and went to high school in nearby Alhambra. “I know how important family is to all of you. That is how I see our country. I see us when we are at our best, as lifting up families, helping families be strong, helping families get the support they need to do the best they can for their children and for their parents.” Clinton touched upon several issues “that keep families up at night” and those that resonate with AAPIs, such as college affordability, tax breaks for family caregivers and immigration. In a $350-billion proposal called the New College Compact, Clinton aims to end student loan debt by cutting tax deductions from the wealthy and instead, give grants to states so students can cover tuition costs at four-year public colleges and universities. She also proposed a new tax credit last November that offsets up to $6,000 in costs for middleclass families who care for their aging parents or grandparents and disabled family members. The plan also outlined providing caregivers with additional Social Security benefits and reforming work-family policies to support paid and unpaid caregivers. On immigration, Clinton defended her vote on a comprehensive bill in Senate and promised to continue on President Barack Obama’s executive actions. “When I was a senator, I worked to reduce the backlog on visas and reunite immigrant families — I will keep up that fight. Immigrants from the Asia Pacific region make up 40 percent of the family visa backlog,” she said. “Some from the Philippines have been waiting for a visa for 23 years.” Fil-Ams for Hillary Buses of Fil-Ams bearing “Filipinos-Americans for Hillary” signs came from Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Las Vegas on Thursday morning. Amid chants of “Mabuhay Hillary,” Fil-Ams were one of the largest groups represented in the crowd, and were acknowledged in Clinton’s remarks. In her speech, Clinton also mentioned Cheska, a Fil-Am DREAMer from Las Vegas who now works for the campaign. “The day after I announced that I was running for president, Cheska volunteered with our campaign. Now she’s a field organizer in Las Vegas. She put her own college education on hold because she wants to shape the country that has given her so many opportunities,” Clinton said. “I want to give young people like Cheska every change to succeed…but I need your help to do that.” When asked what a Hillary Clinton presidency would mean for Fil-Ams, Melissa Ramoso — a member of the National AAPIs for Hillary Leadership Council and a founding member of Filipino Americans for Hillary — said that it would bring more recognition to the community. “[She] and her husband’s administration have had Filipino Americans as their top advisers and have elevated Filipino Americans into positions of leadership. Secretary Clinton understands the important issues relevant to our community, such as immigration reform and caring for the elderly. These are issues important to me personally and am grateful for a candidate that understands that they are for Filipino Americans,” Ramoso said. Added Fil-Am businesswoman and community leader Loida Nicolas-Lewis, who flew from New York for the launch, “FilipinoAmericans should really be voting for her because she’s the only candidate — whether Democrat or Republican — who has recognized the Fil-Am community. In 1999, she was the keynote speaker at the National Federation of Filipino American Associations’ (NaFFAA) event, the first White House occupant to come to a Filipino event…She knows our issues very well. Early on, she has been for Filipino World War II veterans, for immigration reform, for education and for more funds for small businesses, all of which are issues important to Fil-Ams.” Arnel Dino, vice chair of the Filipino-American Democratic Caucus of the California Democratic Party, said that “it’s her time — she has the experience and we want someone who is a friend of AAPIs.” Las Vegas-based community leader Gloria Caoile noted that the presence of Fil-Ams in the crowd showed that “it is a great time for us to speak out with our voices at the ballot box.” Together with the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) and NaFFAA, Caoile and Rozita Lee have been getting AAPIs to register to vote in Southern Nevada, and will organize town hall meetings in the coming months. “In this room today, as a veteran

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— and I say that with pride — it’s a great reunion of folks who have worked on campaigns for the last 30 years and have empowered AAPI communities all over the country,” Caoile said, adding that a Clinton presidency would be advantageous to the Fil-Am community. “Our voices will be heard, our issues will be addressed. Her record has really been tested for her stand on social and economic justice, for families and minorities. As a two-fer — as a Filipina and a woman — I really feel comfortable that we will now be part of this great political infrastructure,” Caoile said. Added Lee, “Hillary understands our culture and she’s going to protect us.” Republicans react In 2015, 56 percent of US-born Asian American registered voters were young adults between the ages of 18 and 34, while 29 percent were middle-aged (34-54) and 16 percent were 55 and older, according to a study by UCLA and the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies. As both sides of the aisle ramp up campaign efforts, they will be courting AAPI voters. Clinton called out the “hateful rhetoric” of the GOP, including that of frontrunner Donald Trump, who recently proposed barring Muslims from entering the United States. “[Republicans] forget a fundamental lesson about our great country. Being an open and tolerant society does not make us vulnerable — it’s at the core of our strength of who we are,” she said. “Either we are going to defend the progress we have made and build on it or we are going to let a Republican president rip it all away. Make no mistake about it, what you’re hearing from all of them are the same, failed policies that led to the great recession.” Despite the outpour of support for Clinton, Republicans immediately listed reasons why the former secretary of state is unfit for the presidency. “Hillary Clinton’s policy proposals will not benefit our Fil-Am communities here in California or across the country. We need a Republican candidate who will fight for our values – lower taxes, religious liberty and protecting our national security,” said Cecile Ramos of the Fil-Am Republican Party of Los Angeles. A memo released on Wednesday, Jan. 6 by Jason Chung, director of APA engagement, and Ninio Fetalvo, APA press secretary at the Republican National Committee (RNC), said that Democrat policies “harm, rather than benefit” AAPI communities. Among the affected segments that the memo cited are AAPI entrepreneurs, small businesses and youth, and suggested that the demographic will instead “stand with the Republican Party.” Fetalvo further said that Clinton’s interactions with AAPIs are for “her own political fundraising” gains. “The reality is Democrats have long taken the AAPI community for granted, and Hillary Clinton will be no different as she continues to support the same failed policies that hurt AAPIs across the country,” he said. Fil-Am Ron Falconi, mayor of Brunswick, Ohio, said that AAPIs should “see which party can provide the right answers to national security, lower taxes, and a stronger economy,” while Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes added that the Republican Party aligns with what many AAPI cultures value. “As an Asian American Pacific

Islander on both sides of my family, I have always been drawn to the Republican Party’s emphasis on rewarding self-reliance, hard work and the risks inherent with owning a small business with lower taxes, less government interference and economic prosperity. The policies and principles of the Republican Party should appeal to AAPI’s more than the unfulfilled promises, false hope and burdensome regulations of the Democrats,” Reyes said. Though Clinton is fairly popular among younger voters, some FilAm millennials active in the GOP, including Gerard Gosioco, call on AAPIs to look into Clinton’s record. “In light of the AAPI for Hillary launch, I implore Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders alike to really do their research before supporting Hillary Clinton. Although it may seem like she will be advocating for issues that are important to our communities, her voting record and the policies she has supported in the past say otherwise,” Gosioco said. Get out the vote initiatives Also present on Thursday were Norm Mineta (the first Asian American to hold a post in the presidential cabinet, who was secretary of commerce during Bill Clinton’s administration and transportation secretary during George W. Bush); California state treasurer John Chiang; Irene Bueno, who led AAPI outreach in Clinton’s 2008 campaign; and San Gabriel Mayor Jason Pu. Michelle Kwan, who now serves as surrogate outreach coordinator for the campaign, emphasized Clinton’s commitment to women. “The difference is…[that] she is fighting for women’s rights… there’s so much at stake in terms of women’s rights and LGBT rights in this election, so it’s for everyone,” Kwan said. The former Olympic figure skater and five-time world champion appeared at the AAPI Democratic Caucus (AAPIDC) meeting in Las Vegas on Monday, Jan. 12, where she said Clinton is the kind of “person I want to see in the White House.” “When you look at the debates and see how Hillary conducted herself during the Benghazi hearing, [you see] her experiences in both domestic and foreign policy and her understanding [of] how to get things done. I think we need a candidate with [that] experience and with that sort of leadership.” Rocio Nuyda, who organized Clinton supporters throughout LA for the AAPI movement launch, noted that this year, her focus is to get more Fil-Am Democrats to register to vote. “They could be here watching what’s going on and cheering, but if they don’t register and they don’t vote, then that’s useless,” Nuyda said. Dino added that more has to be done to raise awareness on issues that are at the forefront of this election. “We have a lot of people in our community who aren’t accessing services and who aren’t voting. When issues that come up that affect them, they don’t educate themselves,” he said. Over the weekend, Clinton’s campaign held workshops in Los Angeles and the Bay Area on how to gather community support for the presidential candidate. Clinton will once again appear in a Democratic debate on January 17, which Fil-Am community members will closely be watching. There are plans for a debate watch party that night in various areas, such as Los Angeles’ Historic Filipinotown. (Christina Oriel/AJPress)

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D ATELINE PHILIPPINES TROs vs Comelec in Poe cases affirmed Duterte vows to become respectable national leader by TARRA

by ROBERTZON

QUISMUNDO

Inquirer.net

THE SUPREME Court on Tuesday, Jan. 12 upheld the temporary restraining orders (TROs) stopping the Commission on Elections (Comelec) from enforcing its resolutions canceling Sen. Grace Poe’s certificate of candidacy (COC) for President. Voting 12-3, the Supreme Court said the TROs issued in Poe’s favor would remain effective “until further orders� from the court. The Comelec last month canceled Poe’s COC, saying that she was not a natural-born Filipino because she was a foundling and that she failed to meet the 10-year residency requirement because she used to live in the United States. But Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno issued last Dec. 28 a TRO in favor of Poe just hours after the senator’s camp filed two petitions asking the high tribunal to stop the Comelec from disqualifying her from the May election. While the TRO remains in effect, Poe’s name remains on the ballot as a candidate for President. Poe position boosted Poe said her position that she was qualified to run for President received a boost Tuesday when the Supreme Court upheld the TROs against her disqualification. The tribunal’s ruling was also good for democracy, the presidential candidate said. “This strengthened my position that I am qualified to run for President in the elections in May,� Poe said in a statement, where she expressed her happiness over the ruling. “This decision is good not only for my case and for my supporters, but also for democracy in

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general,� she added, vowing to continue her fight. Poe’s spokesperson, Rex Gatchalian, said the court’s newly upheld TRO “prevented an injustice from taking place.� “We are grateful to the good justices for their swift action, impartiality and wisdom. We are hopeful that in the coming days once the merits are discussed, they will see the basis of our position,� Gatchalian said. Sen. Francis Escudero, Poe’s running mate, also thanked the Supreme Court. “We hope that the high court will also uphold the laws and long-established jurisprudence when it decides on the other petitions in connection with the candidacy of Senator Grace,� Escudero said. Petitions consolidated Also Tuesday, the high court en banc consolidated the two Poe petitions against disqualification orders from the Comelec’s First and Second Divisions. The consolidated case was scheduled for oral arguments on Jan. 19. The court also required Solicitor General Florin Hilbay to “give

his views� on Poe’s cases against the Comelec, even while he had manifested that he could not represent Comelec having already entered his appearance for the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) in the separate case. “While the Solicitor General had inhibited himself from the Poe cases, the court will nonetheless notify the SolGen and require the SolGen to give his views in these two cases,� said court spokesperson Theodore Te. Solicitor General Florin Hilbay earlier told the court that he could not defend the Comelec in the Poe petitions, as he was already counsel for the SET, which held a divergent position on the presidential candidate’s citizenship. Disqualified presidential candidate Rizalito David has a pending plea against the SET ruling in the high court, asserting that Poe, a foundling with unknown parentage, is “stateless.� “Originally set to be heard also on Jan. 19, the court reset oral arguments on this separate case “to another date, to be announced.� (With a report from Leila B. Salaverria)

Comelec: All’s well that ends well by TINA

G. SANTOS

Inquirer.net

ALL’S well that ends well, according to Election Commissioner Arthur Lim. Lim and six other commissioners appeared together at a press conference Tuesday, Jan. 12 to assure the public that all had been settled in the poll body after the publicized verbal tussle between poll Chair Andres Bautista and Commissioner Rowena Guanzon over the latter’s “unauthorized� submission of a legal comment to the Supreme Court. All seven commissioners presented themselves to media to emphasize that they had settled their differences and were united amid legal challenges. “We would like to give assurance to our people that the Comelec (Commission on Elections) is firmly committed to the holding of a clean, honest, orderly, peaceful and credible election in 2016, and we shall not be sidetracked by any other issues other than to focus on the 2016 elections and make it a successful exercise for our people,� said Commissioner Arthur Lim, who spoke on behalf of the commission. “We are united and focused to do the mandate that the Constitution has given to us,� he added. “In the past few days, you have been witness to certain issues or controversy that involved the commission, particularly our good chairman and good commissioner Guanzon. But that is to be expected in the light of any collegial body. The important thing is that we are able to address the issues and we have now decided to move forward and to leave all these controversies behind us,� Lim said. “All is well that ends well,� Lim added. Ahead of schedule He also said that the Comelec was on track in all the election timelines. “Even as we speak the voting machines are arriving in the port of Manila and the warehousing requirements and all other related activities are on track. We are even ahead of schedule and we shall, with the help of divine providence, fulfill our mandate to the best of our ability,� Lim said. “All the controversy in the past has finally been resolved and settled,� he claimed. Earlier this week, Bautista branded as “unauthorized� a legal comment submitted by Guanzon to the Supreme Court on the petition of Sen. Grace Poe to overturn the Comelec’s decision to disqualify her from the presidential race. Bautista issued a memorandum directing Guanzon and Maria Norina Tangaro-Casingal, director of the Comelec’s law department, to “explain within 24 hours under whose authority� Thursday’s comment was filed. Guanzon fired back, insisting that only the full commission, not Bautista, could say that the comment she filed was “unauthorized.� In an interview with reporters a few hours after the commissioners

RAMIREZ

Philstar.com

faced the media, Guanzon said: “What is important now is what’s good for the country and the Comelec. We should just move forward from here.� But all is still not well from the point of view of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, another presidential candidate facing disqualification cases. Duterte wants Guanzon to inhibit from participating in the disqualification cases filed against him. In a petition, Duterte said Guanzon had shown bias when she became the lone dissenter in the commission’s decision last Dec. 17 to accept the certificate of candidacy of Duterte without prejudice to pending disqualification cases against him. The petition noted how Guanzon’s dissenting opinion pointed at issues against Duterte that were not even mentioned by the petitioner (broadcaster Ruben Castor), showing her prejudgment of the case. Due process, fair play “Respondent Duterte humbly

submits that Commissioner Guanzon, consistent with due process and fair play, should have refrained from making any adverse conclusions with respect to the election documents of a candidate without first seeing and reading an actual petition raising such allegations and issues,� it added. Aside from her questionable dissenting opinion, Duterte’s camp also pointed to Guanzon’s close association to the lawyer of another petitioner against the Davao mayor—University of the Philippines Student Council chair John Paulo Delas Nieves. The lawyer, Maria Sheila Bazar, and Guanzon are both members and founders of the Gender Justice Network, Duterte’s petition said. Duterte is facing four disqualification cases filed by Castor, Delas Nieves, Rizalito David and lawyer Eli Pamatong. The cases all allege that Duterte cannot substitute for Martin Diùo, whose certificate of candidacy is materially defective and, therefore, invalid.

MANILA—Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has vowed to transform himself from a local executive to a respectable national leader if elected president in May. “The clock is ticking. The transformation must begin now. It is time to decide if you and I will make the sacrifice needed and transform ourselves so we will be worthy of our country. The transformation must start with me. From a local leader, I have to become a national leader worthy of your respect and trust,� he said in a recent interview aired on dzRJ 810 AM. Duterte, standard-bearer of Partido Demokratiko PilipinoLakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), also promised to be a Philippine president that the world would respect as the country is a member of the community of nations. Duterte is known for being tough-talking. He drew flak for bragging that he is a womanizer and that he killed criminals. He was also lambasted for cursing at Pope Francis during the procla-

mation rally of PDP-Laban where he complained about the traffic jams caused by the papal visit in January last year. Vice presidential candidate Sen. Antonio Trillanes took a swipe at Duterte in a television interview, saying that the mayor’s disciplinary method “may have worked in Davao but it’s definitely not going to work in the national scale.� “You don’t run the country like that. There should be a vision, a program of action that you would actually have to enumerate,� Trillanes added. But Duterte asked the people if they would still want another six-year presidential term full of criminals, drug addicts, and continuing poverty and corruption. “Or do we once and for all fix our country so our coming generations will have a future?� he added. Duterte stressed that the 2016 presidential elections are the best opportunity for the people to unite in seeking reforms the country badly needs. Duterte and his vice presidential running mate Sen. Alan Peter

Cayetano started their nationwide campaign tour last week. Duterte said among his plans for the Philippines is for it to become a drug-free country with less crime incidents. He vowed to reduce the cost of food by 50 percent by getting rid of unscrupulous middlemen and loan sharks, and by mustering government’s resource to build infrastructure for the delivery of food to lessen spoilage. He promised to create employment by putting up a steel industry “that will spawn factories and create jobs.� He also vowed to build more classrooms, raise the salary of teachers, and double the shifts of classes with the use of largescreen television sets. “Government media and our schools must also teach values of honesty, hard work, respect for the law and above all dignity and pride as Filipinos,� he said. “I have done many of these in Davao even with existing limitations of our government structures. With your help, we can do it nationwide,� he added.

Aquino a capable leader during crises, says Palace by KRISTINE

ANGELI Inquirer.net

SABILLO

A MALACAĂ‘ANG official on Wednesday, Jan. 13 defended President Benigno Aquino III after Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile accused him for “failure of leadership.â€? “President Aquino has demonstrated his capability as a leader through several crisis situations during his administration,â€? Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement. “He (Aquino) has kept faith with the people’s mandate by serving with integrity, dedication and courage,â€? he added. Coloma said the public’s trust in Aquino was seen when many of the President’s candidates won during the 2013 elections, in addition to the “consistently-high performance, approval and trust ratings which he has maintained throughout the last five-and-ahalf years.â€? In an interview with Radyo Inquirer 990AM, Enrile said,

“there was a failure of leadership in Mamasapano, there was a failure of leadership in that fiasco in Luneta. It’s always a failure of leadership. There was a failure of leadership in Yolanda.� He added: “I’m not about to

be an adviser to a president but I would suggest to him to reexamine himself, and don’t be paranoid on imputing any motive against other people. Reflect on yourself, and assert your leadership.�

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OPINION

Cost cutting

FEATURES

WHILE every life is a cause for celebration, taking care of the next generation by keeping tabs on the population is a daunting challenge. Stabilizing the population — to not outstrip economic growth and the country’s resources — is a more challenging task. Environmental stress, biodiversity loss, climate change and pressure on natural resources signal that the Philippines is already overpopulated. But the numbers are still exploding. The Philippine population hit 102.4 million by the end of 2015. This year, it is expected to increase to 104 million as 1.5 million babies are expected to be born. Based on the data gathered by the Commission on Population (PopCom), in five to 10 years, the country will probably have the “biggest number of women of reproductive age that we will ever see, at 25 to 30 million.” With these alarming numbers, a hard look on the country’s population control policies is the best option. The government needs to vigorously implement its population policy, which are responsible parenthood and the advocacy for natural family planning. Health Secretary Janette Garin stressed the need to provide young and poor couples with family planning services to allow them to make better choices and to give their children a better future. She took note of the Philippines’ very young population, wherein women as young as 14 years old are getting pregnant. However, this option was made unavailable after the Senate struck off the P1 billion allotted for family planning commodities for

2016 from the national budget. Garin said the Department of Health (DOH) originally earmarked P1 billion out of its proposed budget of P124 billion from the P3 trillion national budget for this year to cover the free provision of condoms, IUDs, birth control pills particularly for breastfeeding mothers, in health centers. Following the budget cut, Garin said that the department will have to exhaust its resources to provide for 6.7 percent of the country’s population with “unmet” family planning services. She added that to be able to sustain its health program for the rest of the year, the DOH would now need to be aggressive in tapping its international partners like the United Nations Population Fund and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Sen. Loren Legarda justified the budget cut saying that the P1 billion will be used for increases in other agencies, “including for DND air assets upgrading, which is timely and equally important given the West Philippine Sea issue.” A part of the P1 billion, according to Legarda, will be redirected to the increase of budget for state colleges and universities. Senators Pia Cayetano, author of the Reproductive Health law in the Senate, and Miriam Defensor-Santiago both were shocked by the budget cut.

Editorial

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“This abandonment is immoral in a country where some 200 out of 100,000 women who give birth die. The enemies of reproductive health never sleep. We, too, must not rest in fighting for women’s health,” Santiago said. Perhaps it is best to remind the people who allot budget appropriations that a ballooning population interlinks a myriad of issues and its control simply equates a matter of survival of the human race. While the causes of hunger, scarcity, disease,

poverty, war do not rest on the number of this planet’s inhabitants alone, controlling the population renders a chance for a better future. It may be too late for this year, but in 2017, in preparing the country’s national budget, may the government also appropriate prudence and discover why managing population is an essential formula to achieve poverty alleviation, disease eradication, and even safeguarding the economy and national security. (AJPress)

Last State of the Union address: Has Obama fulfilled his campaign promises? THE historic two-term tenure of the first African-American president is almost over. On Tuesday, Jan. 12, President Barack Obama delivered his last State of the Union (SOTU) address. Deemed as his valedictory speech, the president reported to the American people what his administration has accomplished and set the road map to where he hopes the next leader of the most powerful country of the world would stir the nation moving forward. He also declared, with a sense urgency, what he would still want to complete and deliver in the last 12 months of his presidency, appealing to Congress to work with him for the good of the American people they all have sworn to serve beyond party lines and personal interests. In his SOTU, Obama also set the agenda on what the American people should be looking for, not only in his successor, but in other elected public officials, to make sure they continue to build

on the gains his administration has worked on and fought so The Fil-Am hard for. Ahead of Tuesday’s SOTU, Perspective Pres. Obama sent out messages to his supporters, inviting them to watch his last report to the nation. Here is an excerpt: “When we took office, we were GEL SANTOS-RELOS losing nearly 750,000 jobs a month. But over the last 69 months, our businesses have created more than 13.7 million new jobs -- the longest streak of private-sector job growth on record -- and the unemployment rate is down to 5 percent. For the first time, more than 90 percent of Americans are now covered, and more than 17 million people have gained health insurance under Obamacare. Insurance companies can’t discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions, or charge women more just for being women.

Is corruption the key issue in the 2016 election? A RECENT public opinion poll conducted for Manila Standard by Street research specialist Junie Laylo indicates that “corruption” is Talk considered “the most important problem of the country,” rating 31%, or more than twice the next highest ranking issue, “poverty” (15%). These are followed GREG B. MACABENTA by “drug addiction/illegal drugs” (14%), “unemployment/lack of jobs” (10%), “high prices of goods/services” (9%), “criminality” (7%), “low salary/income” (4%) and “traffic” (1%). To the political strategists with an eye on the 2016 presidential elections, corruption, therefore, would seem to be the logical thrust of their campaigns: skewer the competition with allegations of corruption and consign them to the bottom of the survey rankings. This practically calls for a recycling of “Kung walang korap, walang mahirap!” (If no one is corrupt, no one will be poor), the 2010 slogan that supposedly catapulted Benigno S. Aquino III to the presidency. But then, why has Vice-President Jejomar Binay surged back to the top of the recent poll rankings, in spite of the longest, most vicious character assassination campaign ever mounted against a presidential aspirant? And why is Binay’s principal “assassin,” Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, with pretensions of incorruptibility and integrity, a tail-ender in the vice-presidential race? Even fellow Senate sub-committee tormentor, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, is behind Senator Bongbong Marcos in the vice-presidential rankings, despite Marcos’ carrying the burden of his father’s legacy of corruption? And why is Liberal Party presidential standard bearer, Mar Roxas, having so much difficulty catching up with the lead pack in spite of being the prime proponent of Aquino’s anti-corruption platform, Tuwid na Daan (Straight Path)? The clue may be in the adage: Research should be used as a lamp to illuminate, rather than as a lamp post to lean on. Ten different analysts can interpret the same research data in ten different ways. Research findings must be analyzed and interpreted in relation to cultural and attitudinal nuances, as well as the current socio-political environment.

This brings to mind the consumer research we conducted for Nescafé Instant Coffee, back in the early 80’s, to serve as basis for a new ad campaign. After a Focus Group Discussion (FGD), a member of the marketing team excitedly informed me that he had identified the reason why people drank coffee. “They drink coffee to warm their stomachs,” he said eagerly. ”Let’s take it from there.” “So what do you want us to say in our ad?” I asked, trying to keep a straight face. “’Drink Nescafé because it warms your stomach better!’?” It took a deeper understanding of the Filipino psyche to pinpoint the consumer benefit that would give Nescafé a competitive edge. While most of the respondents declared that the reason they bought Blend 45 was because “it tasted good enough,” they conceded, after probing, that if they won in the Sweepstakes, they would buy Nescafé “because it tasted better.” Probed some more, they said it was because Nescafé was “imported.” It was colonial mentality at play! In fact, Nescafé was already being made locally. We took the cue and I wrote the campaign, “Nescafé – Enjoyed in the Great Cities of the World,” It became the longest-running and most successful ad campaign for the brand. Like the Nescafé research findings, “corruption” as an issue may not give a candidate a competitive edge – at least, not for the 2016 elections. The reason is because, just as all brands of coffee can warm the stomach, all politicians are perceived as corrupt, and that appears to be truer now than in 2010. Whether fairly or unfairly, these days, the term “honest politician” is an oxymoron. The pork barrel scam, the unconstitutional Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), the alleged bribing of Senators to ensure the impeachment of Supreme Court Justice Renato Corona, the unexplained withholding of millions in Yolanda disaster relief funds, the suspected use of Bottom Up Budgeting (BUB) and Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) funds to buy votes, the selective prosecution by the Ombudsman of political opponents while sparing allies, the shady dealings in the Department of Transportation G8>< 8.

And America is now leading by example on climate change. The Clean Power Plan will cut carbon pollution from power plants by 32 percent by 2030. We’ve cut our oil imports by more than half, while doubling clean energy production from wind, solar, and geothermal -- creating steady sources of good jobs that can’t be

outsourced. Even as our economy is growing, America has cut our carbon pollution overall more than any other advanced nation on Earth. And we just helped secure the most ambitious global climate agreement in history. These are your accomplishments, and that’s what I want to celebrate with you on January 12. As long as you’re out there organizing, on whatever issue you’re organizing around, America has a bright future ahead.”

The stagecraft of his SOTU told much of his narrative. Each of his special guests were real people who stood for what his administration fought for, and what would have to be done -- economic rebound after the recession; health care and education for all; immigration reform; keeping America safe and secure; stricter gun control measures; addressing the challenges of climate change; hope, equal opportunities and help the middle class and ordinary Americans regardless of economic status, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual preference, religious beliefs, immigration status, etc. WHAT do you think? In the past seven years, has Obama delivered what his campaign promised? *** >\c JXekfj I\cfj `j k_\ XeZ_fi f] K=:Ëj È9Xc`kXe^ 8d\i`ZX%É M`\nj Xe[ fg`e`fej \ogi\jj\[ Yp k_\ Xlk_fi `e k_`j Zfclde Xi\ Xi\ jfc\cp k_fj\ f] k_\ Xlk_fi Xe[ efk f] 8j`Xe AflieXc Xe[ 89J$:9E$K=:% =fi Zfdd\ekj# ^f kf nnn%K_\=`c$8dG\ijg\Zk`m\%Zfd# _kkgj1&&nnn%]XZ\Yffb%Zfd&>\c% JXekfj%I\cfj

ALONG WITH MAMASAPANO, SENATE SHOULD ALSO INVESTIGATE THIS

Roxas squarely responsible for MRT-3 mess contract would expire, the DOTC IT is President Benigno S. resorted to a simplified bidding Aquino’s criminal negligence that Commentary process in line with the Procureresulted in 44 police commandos ment Law (Republic Act No. massacred; that should convince 9184) beginning in the first week us never, never again to have of October 2012.” such kind of yellow leadership, Abaya lying especially that of a haciendero Abaya was lying so the blame scion. would be on MRTC, that it sudIt is the criminal mismanage- RIGOBERTO TIGLAO denly stopped Sumitomo’s conment by his candidate, Manuel Roxas 2nd, of the main mass transport system of tract. It was the DOTC’s MRT-3 General Manager Al Metro Manila that has made the MRT-3 a daily hell for hundreds of thousands of commuters. That Vitangcol who told the MRTC in early September should be enough to convince every Filipino never that it would no longer agree to extend Sumitomo’s ever again to vote into any position of power any- contract. The DOTC officially informed the MRTC on Ocbody from the yellow cult, especially a haciendero tober 4 that Sumitomo’s contract would not be exscion. Consider the facts and tell me if I am exaggerat- tended. It then scheduled a bidding in two weeks, a “simplified” one, which involved simply the subing. For 10 years after MRT3 started operations, the mission of bids, and for government to negotiate Japanese firm Sumitomo Corp. maintained the sys- with what it felt was the best bidder. It justified tem under a contract with Metro Rail Transit Corp. this by claiming it was an emergency move taken (MRTC), the MRT-3 builder. The train was so effi- in order to prevent, to quote its letter, “a stoppage cient that Sumitomo would boast about MRT-3 in of MRT-3’s operations, which would have severely its sales pitch for bidding for similar projects around disrupted the daily transportation needs of its close to 600,000 riders.” the world. That was the start of MRT-3’s deterioration. Sumitomo’s contract expired July 2010, and was Note that all this time, when a proper bidding renewed on a six-month basis only, but for four times by the MRTC, subject to DOTC’s approval. could have been undertaken and bidders given all MRTC chairman Robert Sobrepeña told this writer the time to prepare for it – two years after Sumitothat Sumitomo was in a bind – it required a longer mo’s contract expired July 2010 – the head of the time frame, so it would estimate how much of main- DOTC, the Cabinet member in charge of this crucial tenance inventory it needed to keep, which actually mass transit system, was Roxas. Totally unexpected however – although concost half of its more than $1 million monthly contract. Sobrepeña and Sumitomo continually wrote spiracy theorists allege another scenario – was the letters to the DOTC to request a bidding for a lon- death of DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo Aug. 18, ger-term contract. “We got absolutely no reply,” he with Aquino announcing Aug. 31, 2012 that Roxas would replace him. said. However, Roxas assumed his DILG post only Oct. In the letter of DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya published in response to columnist Jarius 19, the day the Sumitomo contract expired, and an Bondoc’s well-researched exposes, the secretary obscure PH Trams-CB&T, was designated winner of the simplified bidding. wrote: PH Trams-CB&T was a brand new company only “On 4 October 2012, the MRTC wrote the DOTC, informing the latter that it would no longer procure two months old, and had a subscribed capitalization a maintenance service contractor once Sumitomo’s of only P2.5 million, or equivalent to only a 120th part of the P300 million cost of the MRT-3 maintecontract would expire (sic) on 19 October 2012. Given the short period of time left before said G8>< 8.

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Santiago hits rivals over ad splurge Some Bilibid inmates embrace vanity, by CHRISTINA

turn metrosexuals, latest raid reveals

MENDEZ

Philstar.com

MANILA—Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago accused her presidential rivals of engaging in premature campaigning. Santiago noted reports that four of the presidential candidates spent as much as P2.3 billion for campaign ads last year. She vowed to call for a Senate probe on the ad splurge, which she said adds a sense of urgency for her colleagues to finally consider her proposed Anti-Premature Campaigning Act and the related CIRPO Act, requiring any person interested in running for public office to file a certificate of intention to run for public office six months before the deadline for filing of a certificate of candidacy (COC). She also urged voters to treat as red flags for corruption the billions presidential candidates are spending for ads even before the campaign period. “The question we must ask is this: how will these politicians recover the scandalous amounts they spend for their campaign? The simple answer is that they will steal from public funds, or will at least be tempted to do so,” Santiago said. Although sidelined by lung cancer, Santiago did not let go

by TETCH

Inquirer

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unnoticed the ad splurge of her presidential rivals, adding that they might be forced to return favors to affluent campaign contributors once they are elected into office. “An alternative would be to give favors to rich contributors, to the detriment of public interest,” Santiago said. Santiago took to task four of her rivals in the 2016 presidential elections after they reportedly spent a total of P2.3 billion for television ads from January to December 2015. Liberal Party candidate Manuel Roxas II was the top spender, shelling out P774 million, followed by Vice President Jejomar Binay, P695 million; Sen. Grace

MANY crave for beautiful and glowing skin, even those inside the Maximum Security Compound of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP). As proof, during the raid on Wednesday, Jan. 13, authorities have confiscated a diamond peel machine used to rejuvenate the skin and lighten dark pigmentations among other contrabands. Authorities also seized one Poe, P694 million, and Davao unit of electric massage machine, City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, P129 shower water heater and micromillion. She noted that almost all candidates have spent beyond the expected limit for campaign expenses. By the standards set G8>< 8- by the Commission on Elections and Communication (DOTC), to (Comelec), every presidential mention a few, have generated as candidate may spend only P10 per much criticism as the allegations voter, or a total of P545 million for of overpricing, bribery and bidthe projected 54.5 million voters rigging in Makati. in 2016. From another perspective, the “A president’s salary is only attitude of people towards corP120,000 a month. He or she may ruption appears to be in direct thus expect to earn only P8.64 proportion to their perception million for the six years that he or of a politician’s competence and she is in office. These big spend- beneficence. The better he perers therefore cannot say that forms in office and the more serthey will earn theirmoney back if vices and benefits he provides his elected,” Santiago said. constituents, the more tolerable – even acceptable - his alleged corruption becomes. Think Robin Hood. You may ask, why then did the warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, anti-corruption platform work strike, surveillance and recon- in the presidential campaign of naissance. Noynoy Aquino? It will also be an opportunity for While that admittedly helped, it Filipino-American Sailors aboard may not have been the most imwill connect with their heritage. portant factor. The death of Presi“Having moved from the Phil- dent Cory Aquino may have had ippines and been raised in Cali- a much greater emotional impact fornia from the age of three, I on the citizenry. And her squeaky never really had a chance to clean image was also a stark conexperience true Filipino culture trast to that of President Gloria outside of my own family,” said Macapagal-Arroyo. Machinist Mate 1st Class Juan Towards the end of her term, Paulo Reyes. “This trip to Subic Arroyo had become the principal that the Navy has offered me is poster girl for corruption, its vira great opportunity to explore tual personification, due to her my heritage and connect with long, 9-year tenure (next only to members of my family still in the Marcos’ two decades-plus). That Philippines.” negative image was so toxic that it severely affected the presidential hopes of Senator Manny Villar. Being branded as “Villarroyo” maintenance becoming so messed – by inference, a clone of the up, MRT-3 trains have been stop- outgoing president – became the ping at mid-stations, are so few, mark of Cain for Villar. In contrast, the cloud of coror run so slowly. But Abaya may not really be the ruptibility has hovered like a person he may think he is, since pall over the entire Aquino govhe appears so “what-me-worry?” ernment, and the ruling Liberal

MANGOSING Inquirer

A LOS ANGELES-class fast-attack submarine docked in Subic Bay on Tuesday, Jan. 12 as part of its routine Indo-Asia- Pacific deployment, the US embassy said. The USS Topeka followed USS Texas which stopped by in Subic last week. Topeka’s visit was a few hours before the Supreme Court upheld the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) as constitutional. The EDCA is a defense agreement between the Philippines and US signed in 2014, which allows the increased rotational presence

of troops and access to Philippine military bases. “With a crew of 160 Sailors, Topeka will conduct a multitude of missions and maintain proficiency of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet,” the embassy said. Topeka is a capable of operating at depths greater than 800 feet at speeds up to 25 nautical miles per hour. Measuring more than 300 feet long and weighing more than 6,000 tons, Topeka is one of the stealthiest submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine

Roxas squarely responsible for... G8>< 8- nance contract it was given. One of its six investors was known in Pangasinan province as a Liberal Party financial supporter – Wilson de Vera. He had been accused by the Czech ambassador of attempting in July 2012 to extort $30 million from the Czech company Inekon in exchange for winning the contract to supply MRT-3 its train cars. On Dec. 15, the Ombudsman filed charges against Vitangcol, who signed the contract for MRT3 and all of PH Trams incorporators for corruption involving the contract’s award. That’s another case why I question the Ombudsman’s integrity: Why weren’t Vitangcol’s bosses, first Roxas, and then Abaya, charged? Why did Roxas drag his feet for a month-and-a-half to leave his DOTC post Oct. 19, even if Aquino had appointed him to the DILG post Aug. 31? Is this a huge coincidence that Oct. 19 was after the PH Trams closed the contract with MRT-3? Am I too biased to suspect that Roxas was a segurista, that he wanted to make sure that his two-year plot to get a favored contractor in place before he stepped down pushed through? Was it even a better scenario for him that his apparently witless lackey, Abaya, and Vitangcol signed the contract papers and, therefore, would be accountable if the scheme wax exposed? What these morons did not realize, though, was that Sumitomo’s maintenance contract was not as

profitable as it seemed. Half of the contract price was the cost of inventory for the MRT-3’s parts, which were expensive because many of them were precision-engineered and of the highest-quality steel. What the idiots didn’t know What these idiots did not know was the typical Japanese business model that is so different from the Americans. Japanese companies have a longer-term strategy, so that they agree to the smallest margins, as long as their reputation is built up for more and bigger projects. Its MRT-3 maintenance contract barely made a profit, but Sumitomo used the rail’s efficiency as a sample of its expertise in light rail building. Indeed, Sumitomo has built up a reputation as one of the best light-rail builders in the world, with its latest projects being the $500 million contract signed in 2012 to build Vietnam’s first urban rail system and a $398 million supply contract for Chicago Metra’ commuter rail cars. Trying to scrimp on cost as much as it could from its contract, PH Trams didn’t build up a stock of spare parts that it had to cannibalize its other cars for the required parts. The result: the number of cars running at present stands at 14 at the most, down sharply from 70 when Sumitomo was running MRT-3. Without replacements, the trains’ steel wheels have also become squeezed into ovals so that now these have to run slower or they would be derailed. With

wave oven. The raid was conducted at Quadrant 1 of the NBP’s Maximum Security Compound covering Dormitories 1, 6 and the NBP Hospital. Authorities also seized a caliber .45 pistol “STI edge”, one cal. .45 magazine, seven pieces of cal. 45 live ammo and three pieces of .9mm live ammo, assorted bladed weapons such as J-Hooks, fan knife and scissors. Also seized were assorted drug paraphernalia, four containers of fermented yeast, 200 grams of yeast and power tools such

as electric drill, grinder, wood router, submersible pump. There were also assorted mobile phones seized as well as laptops, dual band transceiver, photocopier, pocket wifi, gaming consoles, LED television, cable black box and refrigerators. Authorities also seized P119,000 cash. During the raid, authorities have also dismantled several kubols (inmates’ quarters). The operation is part of “Oplan Galugad” to rid the national penitentiary of illegal activities and prohibited items.

Is corruption the key issue in the...

Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine docks in Subic Bay by FRANCES

TORRES-TUPAS

confident even if it has become obvious to many that he messed up MRT-3, that it is an accident waiting to happen. On Christmas eve, Abaya awarded a new P4 billion contract to a Korean-Filipino consortium consisting of Busan Transportation Corp., Edison Development & Construction, Tramat Mercantile Inc., TMCI Corp Inc., and Castan Corp. As what happened during Roxas’ time, Abaya claimed there was an emergency situation so that the “winner” of the bid was determined through negotiations. Roxas, when he was about to assume the six-year term of the top DOTC post, awarded only sixmonth contracts for the MRT-3. Abaya – who is also the Liberal Party president, by the way – having only less than six months to go before he leaves the DOTC as its secretary, signs a contract for three years, i.e., until 2018, long after he is gone. I think Abaya turns out to be more clever than Roxas. If the Senate is reinvestigating the Mamasapano massacre, they might as well investigate the MRT-3 mess, which could, if uncorrected, lead to accidents killing more than those murdered by the Moro insurgents in Mamasapano. (tiglao.manilatimes@gmail.com)

Party, as much as those they have aggressively tarnished. Recalling the Nescafé marketing case, if all brands of coffee warm the stomach, using that as a consumer appeal would not make sense. Similarly, if all politicians are perceived as corrupt, accusing a political rival of corruption is like spitting in the wind. In sum, to correctly analyze and interpret research about the average Juan, Pedro and Maria, you must have the ability to fit in their shoes as well as in their tsinelas (slippers). And to understand the mind of the masses, you must feel their pain. Needless to say, if one were to the hacienda born and the only exposure to aver-

age folks is by way of the house help and the tenant farmers, that would not be easy to do. Thus, to refer back to the findings in the Manila Standard research, while “corruption” may appear to be the biggest problem of potential voters, what could be more important to them is knowing who among the candidates can help them with food, jobs, education and good health. Take it from our neighborhood tricycle driver: “Kung pare-parehong korap ang mga politiko, duon na ako sa makakatulong sa akin.” (If all politicians are corrupt, I’ll go for the one who can help me). (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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JOURNAL

GETTING PERSONAL WITH PIA ALONZO WURTZBACH

Miss Universe sits down with Asian Journal for a one-on-one interview By MOMAR

G. VISAYA

AJPRESS

BY now, the world…the universe, rather, already knows who Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach is. Chalk it up to a confluence of things, or maybe an alignment of stars. When the Steve Harvey debacle happened on December 20, 2015 where he announced the wrong name as the Miss Universe winner, people’s minds went on full gear. Conspiracy theorists made more than enough noise; was the wrong announcement planned all along? Other people said it was a design issue, saying that it wasn’t Steve

Harvey’s fault since the design of the card that he was supposed to read was well, badly-designed. And still, others, including one of the evening’s judges Perez Hilton believed it was a human error. “He had a job and he didn’t do it well,” Hilton said. The most beautiful mistake is now almost a month old, yet people are still talking about it. Slow news cycle, yes, maybe the week that it happened. But week after week since the coronation, people have not run out of things to talk about. But what happened to the main players? Steve Harvey seemed to be the

fastest to move on as he tweeted “Merry Easter, y’all!” on Christmas Day. Ariadna Gutierrez in her backstage interview said “things happen for a reason” and posted a statement on Instagram with a photo of her wearing the crown and saying “Forever your Miss Universe” and followed it up a few days later with a post congratulating the Filipinos for having a Miss Universe. A week later, she was on Colombian radio saying that she was embarrassed big time and that she wanted to share the Miss Universe crown. And in between, she was also offered a million dollars to do a porn film.

Golden Globe winner Rachel Bloom talks Filipino culture and TV diversity Lea Salonga to appear on ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ By ALLYSON

ESCOBAR AJPRESS

CREATOR, writer, producer and comedienne Rachel Bloom took home the Golden Globe on Sunday, Jan. 9 for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series, Comedy or Musical, for her CW show “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.” “The CW has supported us creatively every step of the way,” Bloom said onstage Sunday night. “All those things you hear about networks trying to stifle creativity--CW lets creators create and gives us freedom. I think the CW is fan-f---ing-tastic.” Musical comedy series “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” follows Rachel Bloom as Rebecca Bunch, a successful, miserable young woman who impulsively leaves her job as a real estate lawyer in New York in search of love and happiness in West Covina, California, also the suburban hometown of her Filipino ex-boyfriend, Josh Chan,

played by Fil-Am actor Vincent Rodriguez III. “‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ explores this idea of feeling crazy over someone,” Rodriguez told the Asian Journal last year, adding that the show --which premiered in October-- includes themes of family, friendship, and finding home away from home. “When you’re in love, it’s fun, ridiculous, and exciting.” “My Thanksgiving With Josh,” an episode that aired on Nov. 16, 2015, made television history when the family of Josh Chan was introduced together with actors Amy Hill, Tess Paras, Alberto Issacs and Coryn Mabalot, all playing members of Josh’s immediate family, respectively. It was the first time a Filipino-American family was introduced to US broadcast television, reported FilAm Creative. While in production for the first season, Bloom said she’d learned a great deal about storytelling

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Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach had graciously accepted her fate when Harvey announced Miss Colombia as the winner. There she stayed, away from the spotlight, on one dimly lit corner of the stage she shared with the second runner-up, Miss USA. Less than two minutes later, a camera was in front of them; Steve Harvey was walking back near Miss Colombia. “I think you just won Miss Universe,” Miss USA Olivia Jordan whispered to Pia’s ear. “I didn’t know what to do, I was looking for the stage managers and I was waiting for the announcement to make sure. I did not want G8>< 9)

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to assume,” Pia said as she recalled the moment leading up to her coronation, the moment many pageant diehards believe was stolen from her because of what happened. That ‘moment’, and the inaugural walk, Pia had a chance for a do over as TV host Kelly Ripa asked her on their morning show just because she was deprived of that chance. As gracious as she was in her initial loss, Pia was equally magnanimous in victory. “I was concerned about Ariadna’s feelings, that is why I was not in a full celebratory mode,” she remarked. She was concerned yes, but she was a little firm when she was asked about her thoughts on sharing the crown with Miss Colombia. “I think it would be difficult for two girls to share a crown, but I have high hopes that this will give great opportunities for me and Miss Colombia and the rest of the contestants,” Pia told Good Morning America. Quite the right response since she won the title fair and square based on the unanimous votes of the judges, the viewers and their co-candidates. The Philippines waited for 42 years before winning another Miss Universe crown. Pia now joins the elite group of Gloria Diaz who won in 1969 and Margie Moran who won in 1973. With her reign, she hopes to shine some light on three of the causes near and dear her heart – HIV and AIDS awareness, helping calamity-stricken countries with relief operations and cyberbullying. Despite, and maybe because of her stature as a beauty queen, Pia was the center of cyber-bullying herself when she posted something back in May 2015 immediately after Manny Pacquiao lost against Floyd Mayweather. “I watched the fight and I was so affected that he didn’t win. Just like everybody else, I wanted him to win. It was meant as a joke. I wasn’t trying to threaten anybody,” she said, recalling what transpired in those moments. “To me, I said it in jest. I was just trying to be funny. A lot of people were not so happy with that tweet.” The people who were not happy with that tweet bashed her endlessly on social media, saying she was too over-confident and that she should be more humble. “I guess my mistake was that I did not put any emojis. It was for me, something to be taken lightly,” she explained. For her diehard followers – some call themselves Pianatics – the tweet was not a big deal, that Pia was – that early – just claiming the Miss Universe title already. For that, she was quick to dispel the issue.

“I have claimed it ever since 2013! I always said, ‘I’m going to be Miss Universe’. I’ve said it so many times in my head and I’ve claimed it so many times, even in public when I was with my friends,” she said. And it became her mantra. A couple of years later and here we were, doing this interview a stone’s throw away from the Miss Universe Organization offices along Manhattan’s Avenue of the Americas. The irony is that her being Miss Universe hasn’t totally and fully sunk in yet for her. When we ask about her current state of mind, Pia replied quickly. “It’s starting to sink in because I am finally working. It is different when you are at home and resting. You don’t get a grasp of what’s going on but when you’re actually at work and doing the duties and responsibilities of a Miss Universe, that’s when it started to sink in.” Chasing Pia January 4, 2016 was Day 1 for Pia and her new job as Miss Universe. It was a very busy and productive day (but very organized and well-managed too, she said) for her and she spent the day doing ten interviews. Her first one was with “Good Morning America,” followed by” Live with Kelly and Michael,” and ended with “CNN with Don Lemon” and ABC’s “Nightline with Juju Chang.” In between, there was “Access Hollywood,” “Inside Edition,” “Entertainment Tonight,” a live interview broadcast in the Philippines for ABS-CBN’s morning show “Umagang Kay Ganda.” The following day was step and repeat as she went through more interviews and guestings on Fox and Friends and other local shows. What follows are excerpts of our one-on-one interview with the reigning Miss Universe. On meeting Samuel Jackson I’m so happy that Samuel L. Jackson was the first famous person I met because I am really a fan and I watch his movies. He’s such a good actor and he is so warm and friendly. When he saw me, he said, “Miss Philippines!” and we shook hands. On her emotional sendoff in Manila I was just so relieved that it was finally my turn for a press conference and sendoff. I was also under a lot of pressure, it was so close to my flight to Las Vegas. And of course, we really wanted to win Miss Universe. It has been building up for so many years and I didn’t want to be the one to break that streak, of course not. If for anything, I wanted to win, not just for myself but for everybody. All of that, the pressure, the relief, it was like I won again. On being a breadwinner at a young age It was not hard as I was never

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Pia is relaxed and refreshed in her Las Vegas hotel room after the confusion and controversy at the finals night, in this photo taken from her Instagram account.

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forced into it. It was something that I enjoyed doing and I want to go back doing it after Miss Universe. It felt so natural to me. I went to school on weekdays and weekends I had shoots and tapings. To me, it was a pretty cool job for somebody my age at that time. I matured quite a bit compared to my peers because of that and that actually had some benefits as well. On her third attempt for the title I was in London because I was waiting for my sister Sarah to give birth. She was due around Christmas pero January na, wala pa and we had so many false alarms. It was almost my flight back home and she hasn’t given birth yet. I asked her if she wanted me to stay until she gave birth and she said, ‘You go! We’ve heard enough about this Binibining Pilipinas, it’s all you have been talking about since you got here. You obviously want it. Go!’ I flew back to Manila and I wasn’t really pageant-ready. I had to rush the preparation for the pageant, the rest of the training I did after na. On destiny I believe in destiny but success is not handed to you, you work hard for it. On loving museums I love visiting museums, even when I was in England or in the Philippines. I usually go during my free time and I’m there for hours. It’s fascinating to me. After an interview earlier, we walked past the Museum of Modern Art and I was making mental notes on where it is so I can go back if I have time. On NYC as a foodie city I’m still trying to find out what is the local cuisine here because it is so diverse. We (she then pauses for a while) have everything here. It’s actually my first time to say we, I mean, live here. I just noticed that everywhere you look, there are different cuisines. What is homegrown New York cuisine, that’s what I am trying to figure out. On her culinary capabilities My mom is a better cook, I’m sure of that. She’s my biggest critic when I cook Filipino food because she’s the best. She has many dishes. I was not a fan of pancit before but now, when I think about it, I would love to eat her pancit, her lumpia and kare-kare, that’s my favorite. It’s my celebratory meal back in the Philippines. And pan de sal with Cheez Whiz, that’s my favorite thing to eat for breakfast. On her Miss U friends I was really close with Myanmar, who was my roommate; Malaysia and China. We were under one supervisor and we had to stick to each other because you don’t want to get lost. If your supervisor is looking for you, you should all be together. They were my comic relief because at times, things would get so serious and competitive but

Ticker tape parade, courtesy call on Aquino await Pia in PH by THELMA

SIOSON SAN Inquirer.net

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when I was with them, I could just sit down and be me. On her ideal man I like guys who have a sense of humor. He has to be smart as well. On the legacy she wants to leave as Miss Universe I would like the people to remember me as someone who is very natural and relatable. I don’t want to be so stiff. I want to erase the image some people have of beauty queens, that we are so unreachable and poised all the time, that we can’t commit a mistake. That’s not true. We’re real people, we’re just like everybody else. I want to show that we’re human. On Lea Salonga’s open letter welcoming her to New York I love her advice for me and the things that I have to remember. I have yet to reply to her so thank you for reminding me. On the last thing she listened to (She went on to sing a few bars of a song with the lyrics ‘You are the universe…’ and asked if I knew that song.) I was singing it yesterday during a shoot and I asked if anybody knew that song. Nobody knew it. Is it just me? Did I make this song up? (laughs) Last thing she ate (It was almost 2:00 pm) I haven’t eaten anything yet, I had raw juice from a local juicer. I have them send it every day. Green juice. On her nightly prayers I say thank you. Do you wish on stars? All the time. On what color she would be if she were a crayon. Red, because I’m hot. (She giggles and follows it up with ‘I’m just kidding.’) Green. That’s my favorite color. Favorite drink Coconut water. Favorite sport I don’t play but I love to watch football, or soccer. Favorite toy as a kid My Barbies. I had so much, my dad spoiled me with so many Barbie dolls. What is Pia Wurtzbach afraid of?

JUAN

A ROUSING welcome awaits Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, the country’s first Miss Universe after a 42-year drought, when she arrives late afternoon of Jan. 23, a Saturday. Expect the world’s most hospitable people to pull out all the stops when they celebrate Wurtzbach’s homecoming with a ticker tape parade, a citation of excellence, a medal of distinction and a courtesy call with President Benigno Aquino III no less. Some 300 members of the foreign media are expected to fly to Manila to cover Wurtzbach’s hectic schedule, starting with a press conference and interviews with media on Sunday, and a courtesy call on President Aquino at Malacañang on Monday morning. She then motors to the Senate where she will be given a citation of excellence. From the Sofitel hotel at the Cultural Center complex in Pasay City, a ticker tape parade will bring the beauty queen around Manila, the Makati central business district on Ayala Avenue, and finally, Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City. Grueling schedule The parade, which is expected to run into early evening, is part of what appears to be a grueling schedule that would faze even the strongest. But then again, the 26year-old Wurtzbach lived for this day, wearing the Miss Universe crown having been her lifelong ambition. Young as she is, Wurtzbach took a relatively arduous route to the crown—losing twice in the Binibining Pilipinas pageant, learning to perform and model as early as her pre-teens, finally being a model, and recently, a contributing beauty writer/stylist

for Inquirer Lifestyle’s ToBeYou. Congressional medal of distinction It has been a journey that brought to the fore this young woman’s tenacity, discipline, innate intelligence and fierce sense of independence. On Tuesday, Jan. 26, this year’s Miss Universe will pay courtesy calls on Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada and acting Makati Mayor Romulo “Kid” Peña. In Quezon City, the House of Representatives will honor Wurtzbach with the congressional medal of distinction. Advocacies The succeeding days will be devoted to the beauty queen’s advocacies, including raising awareness on HIV/AIDS. The incidence of HIV/AIDS in the country has risen sharply in the last few years. On Thursday, Jan. 28, a Miss Universe homecoming special is scheduled at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City. Capping Wurtzbach’s homecoming is her return on Friday to Cagayan de Oro City, where she grew up. She was born in Germany where her German father and Filipino mother initially settled. Exceptional Wurtzbach’s homecoming visit is being arranged by the Miss Universe officials with the Binibining Pilipinas Charities chaired by Stella Marquez-Araneta. Marquez-Araneta, a former Miss Colombia, remains effusive when she talks of Wurtzbach. “She’s really exceptional. She’s always on time, never ever late,” she told the Inquirer. “Even the mentors were impressed with her. She’s always curious, always wanting to learn.” Asked if she was surprised that Wurtzbach won, Araneta said, “Not at all.”

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Regrets, that’s why I always try to do my best because I don’t want regrets. Best assets Physical? My eyes. Characterwise? My personality and my sense

of humor. On why she is where she is right now I had very good teachers, mentors, parents who made sure that I was on the right path.

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Filipina chosen as Asia’s Best Female Chef Fil-Am wins Golden Globe award for best animated film by RAOUL

by NIMFA

J. CHEE KEE

Inquirer.net

THE Philippines is in the news once again with the announcement on Tuesday, Jan. 12 of restaurateur Margarita Fores as Asia’s Best Female Chef 2016 by the group Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Fores was emotional at the announcement held at Lusso, one of her restaurants at Greenbelt 3 in Makati. “I’ve been hyperventilating since they told me this morning. I had to keep asking whether they were going to take it back,” she said, in reference to the Miss Universe 2015 brouhaha where Miss Colombia was mistakenly crowned the winner. Miss Philippines’ Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach was eventually declared the real winner. Fores was unanimously chosen the best female chef by a group made of 300 gourmands and experts in the service industry. The awarding will be held in Bangkok, Thailand on Feb. 29.

BEVERLY HILLS—A Pixar animation film codirected by a Filipino-American has won best animated feature at the Golden Globes at the Beverly Hilton on Sunday night, Jan. 10. “Inside Out,” codirected by FilAm Ronnie del Carmen triumphed over “Anomalisa,” “The Good Dinosaur,” “The Peanuts Movie” and “Shaun the Sheep Movie.” “I feel so honored,” said Del Carmen, who watched the 73rd Golden Globe Awards night from his northern California residence with his wife and two children. “I’m so lucky to be part of director Pete Docter’s team for the past five years,” he added. The film is a colorful look at a young girl’s inner emotions. “It felt like growing up is really hard, and that was an interesting subject to make a movie about,” Docter said in his acceptance speech. DXi^Xi`kX =fi\j XeefleZ\[ Xj 8j`XËj 9\jk =\dXc\ Z_\] ]fi )'(- Yp 8j`XËj ,' 9\jk I\jkXliXekj% G_fkf ]ifd K_\cdX JXe AlXe Kn`kk\i XZZflek

KathNiel bags foreign best actor and actress awards in Vietnam

MANILA—Philippine showbiz’s Teen King and Queen Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo recently brought honor to the country after winning accolades in Vietnam’s Face of the Year Awards for their performances in the hit series Got to Believe, which has captured a massive following in the Southeast Asian nation where the Philippine teleserye is currently airing on TV. The series proved to be a big hit in Vietnam after Today TV started airing it on primetime television every day from 7pm to 8pm. Vietnamese viewers were indeed captivated by the love story of Joaquin and Chichay, as proven by the high ratings the show registers every night. The phenomenal Kathniel tandem personally received the Best Foreign Actor and Best Foreign Actress awards last Friday during the gala night held in Ho Chi Minh BXk_ipe 9\ieXi[f Xe[ ;Xe`\c GX[`ccX nfe XZk`e^ XnXi[j Xk k_\ @D: =XZ\ f] k_\ P\Xi XnXi[j city’s Opera House. e`^_k `e M`\keXd ]fi k_\`i KM j\i`\j È>fk kf 9\c`\m\É n_`Z_ X`i\[ k_\`i cXjk p\Xi% Organized by IMC, the parent Kn`kk\i g_fkf Yp Ifop C`hl`^Xe company of one of Vietnam’s largest TV networks Today TV, the Kathryn. Jan. 9 for Kathryn and Daniel’s “Face of the Year Awards” aims to “I’d like to thank Today TV. meet-and-greet, where the two honor films and artists who had sig- We just feel very humbled, very stars gamely posed for photos, nificant contributions to the indus- blessed, and we are very thankful. signed autographs and answered try over the past year and are voted Maraming salamat,” said Daniel. questions. by the Vietnamese audience. In 2014, Be Careful with My Prior to the gala night, Kathryn For their respective categories, and Daniel already felt the love Heart was also a phenomenal hit Kathryn and Daniel beat actors and from Vietnamese Kathniel fans that earned lead stars Richard Yap actresses from other countries such when they arrived at the Saigon and Jodi Sta. Maria the same Face as India and Thailand. Airport Friday, Jan. 8. Armed with of the Year Awards. “Thank you for this opportunity. banners, shirts, posters and caps, Got to Believe and Be Careful And to all our supporters here in Vietnamese fans chanted “Kathn- With My Heart are among the Vietnam, thank you so much for iel,” and some even sang the “Got many ABS-CBN dramas that aired loving our characters, Joaquin and to Believe” theme song. in different countries through the Chichay, and for loving the show Fans also flocked to a local efforts of ABS-CBN International Got To Believe. We love you!” said mall in Ho Chi Minh last Saturday, Distribution. (Philstar.com)

High-wire balancing act for Vilma Santos by RITO

P. ASILO Inquirer.net

YOU’LL have a hard time finding an actress busier than Vilma Santos these days, but the seeming ease with which she juggles her chores as a movie queen, a hands-on wife and mother and a dynamic public servant demonstrates how she embodies the prized appellation attached to her name: Vilma is the Star for All Seasons—and Reasons! She works very hard, but she makes the high-wire balancing act look like a walk in the park. Ate Vi, who’s on her last term as the first female governor of Batangas, was in the middle of meetings when we texted and asked her for an interview for this piece last month, but it took her only a few minutes to reply—no annoying handlers, no cordon sanitaire. She doesn’t make you feel like her schedule is more important than yours. One time, she called us at 9 a.m. so we could meet our deadline for an article that we were writing for NUT (Nestor Torre, editor of Saturday Special). Another time, we got a call from her a few minutes after deplaning from her US trip! Would other big stars be as accessible—and approachable? The actress’ answers are as honest as they’re straightforward, but she isn’t beyond asking you for your opinion about the issues being discussed—from Pia Wurtzbach’s triumph as the country’s first Miss Universe in 42 years (“Regardless of the mixup, the crown belongs to her now”) to the phenomenal tandem of Alden Richards and Maine “Yaya Dub” Mendoza (“What they have is a gift—but they need to sustain their popularity with projects that’d prove that they’re more than just overnight sensations”). Her impeccable people skills and her openness for discussion and discourse are among the reasons why the 62-year-old acting icon is good at what she does: She doesn’t just talk—she also listens.

U. RUEDA

Inquirer.net

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Vilma is busy wrapping up her scenes for her latest film, Joyce Bernal’s “Everything About Her,” about a tough-as-nails executive who is diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. The dramedy, which will open on Jan. 27, is her first starrer with Angel Locsin, her son Luis Manzano’s lady love. She shares, “My role is inspired by the character of Meryl Streep in ‘Devil Wears Prada’—what happens when someone like her is faced with a life-or-death situation—and intimations of mortality?” Vilma is just as passionate talking about show biz as she is about the breakneck pace she follows as the governor of Batangas. She says that running for the vice presidency was never an option—in fact, in May, she’s aiming for Lipa’s lone congressional seat. Extra-special experience “It’s a homecoming of sorts,” she says. “I was Lipa’s first female mayor, but the experience was extra-special, because it was my first time to dabble into politics—and they accepted me, even despite their reservations! It’s high time for me to repay its residents’ kindness, especially now that I have learned so much about leadership and governance.” Vilma has been a star since she was 9 years old (she played the title role in Jose de Villa’s 1963

tearjerker, “Trudis Liit”) and she was still at the top of her stellar show biz career when she decided to give politics a try. What convinced her to take the big leap to public service? “I was dubbing for ‘Bata, Bata Paano Ka Ginawa?’ when I finally agreed to run (in 1998). I prayed to God and asked for white flowers from Him—and got them on the last day of the filing of certificates of candidacy! I cried, because I knew that it was going to change my life! When I won, I turned to Ralph (Recto, her senator husband) and said, “I won, paano ’yan (what now)? “I was lucky I had Ralph to show me the ropes and lay the cards on the table. He presented me with different options and enumerated the sacrifices I would have to make—that instead of getting pampered and served (as I’m used to, as an actress), I would have to do the serving (as a politician)! “I took a crash course in Public Administration at UP (University of the Philippines) and asked about things I knew nothing about. It’s been 18 years since, but while it hasn’t gotten easier, I must say that it’s a fulfilling job—because the position allows you to change people’s lives for the better.” The celebrated actress was eager to learn everything she could about her new career trajectory. In fact, during the course of our conversation, Vilma often used jargon—continuity, sustainability, inclusive growth, etc.—common to public administrators and developmental strategists we know. No sacrifice “As for the vice presidential post—yes, I was asked to make a go at it. But I don’t want to do something I can’t give my full attention to, because I also have my immediate family to dote on and take care of. I’m a hands-on mom and wife—I want to be there when (her youngest son) Ryan needs my advice about what to wear to the prom, or take care of the grocery list when Luis drops by to have dinner with us on certain G8>< 9.

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Though Del Carmen could not make it to the event because of work commitments, he felt the excitement as he watched Docter receive the award. “I had a big smile on my face.” It was the seventh Pixar movie to win in the 10 years since the award was created. Dream big Del Carmen said he hoped the recognition would inspire Filipinos to dream big and tell their story. “I had dreams and aspirations

just like anybody,” he said. “I concentrated on what I loved to do. He encouraged Filipinos seeking success to work hard, keep going, be seen, show up and “seek mentors who can show you the way.” “You also have to take risks … and start telling your story,” said Del Carmen, who was recently honored by the University of Santo Tomas as an outstanding alumnus. He said he was very grateful to Docter and John Lasseter, Pixar G8>< 9+

Golden Globe winner Rachel Bloom... G8>< 9( from viewers to the show’s Filipino characters, which reflect the show’s setting of the Los Angeles suburb of West Covina, according to Variety. “I have learned so much about Filipino culture. What’s insane is we are not fresh off the boat about specifically being Filipino. One of our characters [Rodriguez] happens to be Filipino, so when we realized no one else had even made the effort to show a Filipino family on an American comedy, it taught me a lot about Filipino culture,” Bloom said to reporters in the Globes press room. “Mabuhay!” “But it’s also taught me really about how important diversity is, if you want to tell a new story.” Bloom also used the opportunity to announce that Filipina Broadway star Lea Salonga will also be a guest star in the show’s first season finale. “In episode 18, we are so proud Lea Salonga will be guest-starring, and when Vincent saw [her], he literally fainted to the ground,” Bloom laughed. Salonga also previously tweeted, “I guess the news is out!!! I’ll be appearing on the season finale of [Crazy Ex-Girlfriend]! And singing, too! How fun is that?!”

The CW show will return with its midseason premiere at its usual time on Monday, Jan. 25, at 8pm ET, reported Entertainment Weekly. “This has shown me how important diversity is if you want to tell a new story. Anything else I do from now...I would want to make it about people who are diverse, gay,

trans; because those are stories that have not been told before, and America is a melting pot of immigrants, and I don’t think it is acknowledged half as much as it is on television. We’re proud to be a show that supports diversity because that’s what America is. We’re just showing it how it is,” Bloom said.

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‘Pilipinas Got Talent’ new judges ready for action Cristine Reyes says motherhood has changed her life by

ARVIN MENDOZA Inquirer.net

TWO judges are out but three new ones are in. With veterans Kris Aquino and Ai Ai de las Alas dropping out of the judging panel, “Pilipinas Got Talent” (PGT) is gearing up for its upcoming season with new judges Angel Locsin, Robin Padilla and Vice Ganda. Aquino will not be returning this season after reportedly citing health problems, while De las Alas is already tied with GMA Network after transferring last year. Retired ABS-CBN head Freddie M. Garcia will remain as the fourth judge for his fifth consecutive season. “We have a lot of talent in the Philippines. We hope to discover them this season,” he said. Real-life best friends Luis Manzano and Billy Crawford are keeping their hosting duties as well. The four judges were all present during the show’s red carpet opening and taping of the first set of auditions on Tuesday, Jan. 12 at Kia Theater in Quezon City. “I am super ready, super excited to be a judge,” said comedian-host and box office star Vice Ganda in an interview. Acknowledging that the competition would be very tight among the contenders, Vice Ganda said he was looking for an act who “will affect him and touch his heart and soul.” “I don’t want this show to be “Pilipinas Got Awa (sympathy),” he said. “I want that this would all be about talent and the winner would be really deserving.” Vice Ganda, who had previously served as a temporary judge for the show, expressed excitement and said he was ready to have a fun time with his cojudges. Padilla, meanwhile, believes that the latest season will be much more exciting than the previous

by ALLAN

POLICARPIO Inquirer.net

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“I want to say yes to all but that’s not possible because we have to be honest and fair to the contestants,” she said. A new element in this year’s PGT is the power of each judge to pick one act that will dart straight to the semi-finals using the “Golden Buzzer,” according to business unit head Lui Andrada. First introduced in the country six years ago, PGT is the local franchise of the “Got Talent” format created by Syco Entertainment, a company co-owned by music and television mogul Simon Cowell. It is coming back for its fifth season this month, following the success of four Filipino acts who got through the grand finals of AXN’s first “Asia’s Got Talent” (AGT) last May, two of whom are PGT alumni. Season 3 finalist shadow-play group El Gamma Penumbra emerged as the grand champion of AGT, while singer Gerphil Flores from Season 1 finished in third place. The talent reality show showcases performers across the country such as singers, dancers, magicians, jugglers, ventriloquists and other entertaining aspirants, all competing for the chance to win P2 million. The previous winners, who are all singing acts, include Jovit 89J$:9E i\Xc`kp j_fn ÈG`c`g`eXj >fk KXc\ekÉ j_fnj f]] `kj jkX^\ [li`e^ `kj fg\e`e^ Xe[ kXg`e^ Baldivino, Marcelito Pomoy, the Maasinhon Trio and Roel Manf] Ôijk j\k f] Xl[`k`fej fe Kl\j[Xp Xk B`X K_\Xk\i `e Hl\qfe :`kp% @ehl`i\i%e\k g_fkf Yp 8im`e D\e[fqX langit.

EMPLOYMENT

ones. “The judges would be more excellent, as well as the talent of the performers,” the actor said. He said he would be an ally of the contestants throughout the competition. However, he added that he would not be too kind nor too strict. “I will not show off. And I will say things from my heart,” said Padilla, who also had previous experience in hosting a talent show. For Locsin, talent is not the only key to succeed and win people’s hearts. “I want good attitude. I want magic,” the award-winning actress said. Locsin said she was lucky to have opportunities to showcase her talent in the past and now was the time to repay the acceptance and chances people had granted her.

EMPLOYMENT

GONE is the happy-go-lucky Cristine Reyes. Having a child, she said, has given her life a new “focus” and “direction.” “When I was single, I didn’t have to worry much about anything. But now that I’m a mother, I always think about my future with my family. They inspire me,” related the 26-year-old actress, who has a 10-month-old daughter, Amarah, with mixed martial arts fighter Ali Khatibi. Among those who observed such change in Cristine was Chris Martinez, her director in the “Asawa ni Marie” episode of Viva Films’ “Lumayo Ka Nga sa Akin”—an upcoming three-part anthology that spoofs the various clichés found in local movies and television shows. “She’s more serious and less playful on the set. She comes prepared and is more professional. Cristine has changed a lot; ang bait-bait niya ngayon!” he said at a recent press conference. “That’s not to say she wasn’t nice the previous time we worked!” the filmmaker quickly added, drawing laughs. Cristine and Ali are set to tie

the knot on Jan. 27 in a private Christian ceremony to be attended only by their pastor and a witness. The actress, however, assured that there will be a big wedding in the future, in which family and friends will be invited. “We want to make things right this year; I want our relationship to be blessed,” Cristine said. “We’re both very busy these days, so we want to have something small and intimate first. Planning a fullblown wedding will be stressful and difficult right now.” Asked if she’s more discerning now when it comes to accepting projects, Cristine, who used to do sexy drama flicks, shows and photo shoots, said it would depend on the material. “Ayoko namang magsalita nang tapos,” the Viva star stressed, adding that she doesn’t think her future husband would object to her doing such type of work. “Ali is understanding—if you explain to him that this or that project is good, I think he would approve,” she said of her fiancé, whom she described as “kind and trying his best to be a responsible father and partner.” Being pregnant, Cristine recalled, was a “great feeling”—

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“miraculous,” even. Yes, she wants to have another baby, but not any time soon. “I want my body to fully recover and relax,” she said. “And I’m still enjoying Amarah (her baby) right now. I bring her with me when I’m shopping or eating out. She’s so fun to be with!” “Lumayo Ka Nga sa Akin,” which opens on Jan. 13, has two other episodes: Mark Meily’s “Bala sa Bala, Kamao sa Kamao, Satsat sa Satsat,” which stars Benjie Paras and Candy Pangilinan; and Andoy Ranay’s “Shake, Shaker, Shakest,” with Maricel Soriano and Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista.

Fil-Am wins Golden Globe award for best...

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Animation Studios’ chief creative officer, for supporting projects like “Inside Out,” which he described as a “unique and courageous” movie. Fil-Am achievers HFPA’s Janet Nepales, who wore a Michael Cinco gown, said she was proud to bring the media and Fil-Am achievers, including filmmakers, tourism promoters and fashion designers, to the prestigious Hollywood event to represent the Philippines. “It’s always nice to have the Philippines represented in a Hollywood establishment because you bring the perspective of other countries, not just the rich nations,” said Ruben Nepales, the first Filipino chair of the HFPA board. Among the Fil-Ams at the event was Oliver Tolentino, who was recently in the news for helping Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach win her crown when he sent her gowns for the crucial preliminary competition, following a last-minute plea of

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the Miss Philippines team. Hope for Filipinos Tolentino was accompanied by his business manager Andrew Caruthers. Also at the event was renowned dermatologist Tess Mauricio and her husband James Lee, filmmaker Senedy Que and Jose “Boboi” Costas, a grass-roots tourism and heritage conservation

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advocate. “Being here gives me hope that Filipino filmmakers can also make it big in Hollywood,” said Que, a multiawarded movie and TV screenwriter whose film credits include cowriting “Small Voices,” the 2002 Oscar entry of the Philippines in the best foreign language film category.

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2016 begins with planned mass deportations and stricter enforcement of the Real ID act

Your Immigration Solution ATTY. ROBERT REEVES GREGORY J. BOULT NANCY E. MILLER AS the New Year begins, there is hope that comprehensive immigration reform will legalize the status of millions, thus permanently uniting them with their families here in the United States. Unfortunately, the year has not begun on a positive note and the outlook for passage is not good. As 2015 came to a close, the Department of Homeland Security revealed plans to physically deport thousands of Central Americans while moving to stringently enforce the Real ID Act in a manner which could affect the ability of many individuals, both documented and undocumented, from entering federal facilities and boarding commercial airliners even with a valid state-issued driver’s license. Is this a portent of things to come? It is certainly possible.

For decades, the violence from civil wars and gang violence in Central America has led to an influx of individuals seeking refuge in the United States. While many of these individuals have obtained permanent or temporary status in the United States, countless more have not. Some continue to reside in the United States having been ordered deported by an Immigration Judge, desperate not to return home. In a rather unprecedented move, and following on the heels of the recent arrival of thousands of unaccompanied children from Central America, the Department of Homeland Security has formally announced that it has specifically targeted certain Central Americans for physical deportation. DHS is currently focusing on those individuals from Central America who have remained in the United States despite having been ordered deported by an Immigration Judge. Some fear being harmed if they return home;

others are waiting for their family petitions to become current. While some of these individuals have been ordered deported due to criminal convictions or other serious immigration violations, many of these people were ordered deported solely because they remained beyond their visas or entered the United States without papers. And the result of this newly-announced policy has already sent shock waves across many Central American communities in the United States. Adding to these shock waves is the very aggressive stance which the Department of Homeland Security has taken regarding enforcement of the driver’s license provision of the Real ID Act. Congress passed the Real ID Act in an effort to prevent future terrorist attacks after 9/11. One element of the law was a federal mandate pertaining to security features on all stateissued drivers’ licenses. While many states have complied with these requirements, others have

not. For those states which have not, privacy concerns have proven a central concern. Now, in an apparent effort to force full compliance, the Department of Homeland Security is raising the stakes against those states which have not complied. The threat now looms that non-compliant identification – including drivers’ licenses and ID cards – may be deemed legally insufficient proof of identity to enter a federal facility, and may even preclude the use of non-compliant identification to board a commercial airline flight. Such a policy would affect United States citizens and others lawfully present in the United States as well as thousands of individuals who have secured valid and lawful driver’s licenses although they are without legal status in the United States. As was very-well-publicized, last year California began to issue drivers’ licenses to individuals residing in the state without legal status. Should the

Department of Homeland Security proceed as planned, many of the benefits which have attached to this historic program could be notably curtailed. In one irony, these perfectly valid forms of identification under state law could lose all significance for those seeking to utilize these documents in an effort to legalize their status in the United States. If these forms of identification, which are valid under state law, are deemed legally insufficient to enter a federal facility, individuals could be prevented from entering the very facilities where their immigration interviews are being held. No matter how limited, any step forward on the path to immigration reform is welcomed. However, this year has not begun on a strong note with certain Central Americans being targeted for physical deportation from the United States, and some state-issued driver’s licenses appearing not as valid as some had hoped. Fortunately, for many,

there may be options available – even if an Immigration Judge has issued an order of deportation. Regardless, the New Year presents a fresh opportunity to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney to see what options may exist as the law now stands. As the old saying goes, prepare for the worst and hope for the best. However, one can only do so by knowing all of their available options. !!! 8kkp% I\\m\j _Xj i\gi\j\ek\[ Zc`\ekj `e eld\iflj cXe[dXib `dd`^iXk`fe ZXj\j k_Xk _Xm\ j\k e\n gfc`Z`\j i\^Xi[`e^ @EJ XZk`fe Xe[ `dd`^iXekjË i`^_kj% ?`j f]]`Z\j Xi\ cfZXk\[ `e GXjX[\eX# @im`e\# JXe =iXeZ`jZf# CXj M\^Xj Xe[ DXbXk` :`kp% K\c\g_fe\1 /'' .0,$/''0 <$dX`c1 `dd`^iXk`fe 7ii\\m\j%Zfd N\Yj`k\1 nnn%ii\\m\j%Zfd% !!! K_\ XeXcpj`j Xe[ jl^^\jk`fej f]]\i\[ `e k_`j Zfclde [f efk Zi\Xk\ X cXnp\i$Zc`\ek i\cXk`fej_`g Xe[ Xi\ efk X jlYjk`klk\ ]fi k_\ g\ijfeXc`q\[ i\gi\j\ekXk`fe k_Xk `j \jj\ek`Xc kf \m\ip ZXj\% 8[m\ik`j`e^ Jlggc\d\ek

Our amazing heart WGU ranks as a top educator of minorities in nursing

Health@Heart PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS THE HEART, the symbol of love, of Valentine’s Day, even of religious adoration, is always fascinating but still a mystery to most of us. The amazing facts about our most loyal and dedicated pumping organ are mind-boggling and a constant source of wonderment. Winning hearts, stealing hearts, breaking hearts, and for us cardiac surgeons, mending hearts, are easier to understand and do, than to comprehend fully the wonders of this hard-working, ceaselessly pumping, untiring, and unique muscle in our body. How large is our heart? The size of the adult heart is about the volume of two hands clasping each other, with the fingers intertwined. In children, it is the size of the kid’s one fist. The heart is located, not to the left, as often thought of, but in the middle of your mid chest, enclosed in its own compartment, an envelope called pericardial sac, and located between the left and right chest cavity, where the left and right lungs are, respectively. Its tip is pointed slightly to the left. Does the heart ever rest? The heart beats about an average of 70 beats per minute, 4,200 an hour or about 100,800 times in one day, roughly about 36 million times in a year. In an average life span, the human heart will beat about 2.5 billion times. But contrary to what seems obvious, the heart rests for a split second in between beats. This happens between contractions, when the heart relaxes to accept more oxygenated blood from the lungs, and prepares to pump blood out of its chambers again. How powerful is the heart contraction? The heart contraction is so powerful that it approximates the force one needs to give a tennis ball a hard and full squeeze with all your might. The cardiac muscles work twice as hard as the leg muscles of a person running full speed. The hydraulic force generated is necessary to propel rapidly the blood that circulates about 13 kilometers per minute, or 780 kilometers per hour, about four times the speed of the fastest racing car there is. Will an isolated heart beat

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on its own? The muscle of the heart is a specialized one that beats on its own (automaticity) and one that has its own rhythm (rhythmicity), even when cut off from the body and lying on a surface. The isolated heart in this situation will beat continuously until its own residual energy is used up, which is within about 4-5 minutes. It then ceases movement. What is the normal heart rate? This varies from individual to individual, depending on the age, condition of the body, and the health of the person. A wellconditioned athlete may have a heart rate of 35 a minute and feel great, but this rate would cause almost all of us, non-athletes, to feel faint and pass out, or in the very least, feel very dizzy and weak. On the average though, the normal resting rate (medically speaking) is from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Anything below 60 is called bradycardia (too slow heart rate), and a rate higher than 100 is tachycardia (too fast a heart rate). Among children the range is between 90-120 beats a minute. How much blood does a person have? The adult human body has about 5.6 liters (6 quarts) of blood in the circulation. These 6 quarts completes a full round of circulation throughout the body about every 20 seconds. The blood travels a total of about 19,000 kilometers (12,000 miles) in 24 hours, which is about four times the distance from California to New York, or roughly five times the air miles from San Francisco to Manila. About one million barrels of blood is pumped by the heart in an average life span, a volume enough to fill more than three super tankers. Where does the blood go? The blood pumped by the heart goes out through the ascending aorta, the largest artery in the body (about half the size of an average wrist), that is connected to the heart, and circulates through the various arterial branches and capillaries to the brain and to all other vital organs (liver, pancreas, kidneys, adrenals, intestines, sex organs, etc.). The capillaries are terminal or end arteries, the size of which is about one-tenth the size of the human hair. These are the tiny vessels that actually bring blood to the tissues and cells of the various parts of the body.

How does blood get oxygen and nutrition? The nutrition and oxygen in the blood are used up by the tissues and cells. The used blood (now containing much less oxygen and more carbon dioxide, lactic acid and other “waste products”) travels back from the tissues and cells to lungs for oxygenation. Then blood goes to the heart for pumping to all organs, like the liver where toxins will be detoxified, to the kidneys that will filter the waste products and passed out through the urine, to the stomach and intestines where it will be replenished with new nutrition. The used blood then flows back to the lungs. After the oxygenation, the blood flows into the heart, ready to be pumped back into the circulation once again. And the cycle goes on. How strong is our heart? A healthy heart can take a lot of beating (no pun intended). It is one of the most powerful pumps in the world, even when compared to the mechanical ones built by man. Self-contained, self-propelled, energy-efficient, the heart works without stopping, and can survive grave insults and abuses we, humans, subject it to day in and day out. Is mechanical heart better? Certainly not. Not yet, anyway. The man-made hydraulic-driven artificial or mechanical heart prosthesis available today is still no match to the one we were born with. Besides being a bulky foreign body and made of hardware not as soft and tender as our body tissues, it also requires electrical energy from outside the body and the use of anticoagulants to prevent thrombosis (blood clots, which can cause stroke). The mechanical heart is also prone to infection and not as durable as a natural heart. At the present, the artificial heart leaves too much to be desired. Let’s take good care of our heart; it’s the only one we’ve got. *** G_`c`g J% :_lX# D;# =8:J# =G:J# :Xi[`XZ Jli^\fe <d\i`klj `e Efik_n\jk @e[`XeX Xe[ Z_X`idXe f] ZXi[`XZ jli^\ip ]ifd (00. kf )'(' Xk :\Yl ;fZkfij Le`m\ij`kp ?fjg`kXc# n_\i\ _\ _fc[j k_\ k`kc\ f] G_pj`Z`Xe <d\i`klj `e Jli^\ip# `j YXj\[ `e CXj M\^Xj# E\mX[X% ?\ `j X =\ccfn f] k_\ 8d\i`ZXe :fcc\^\ f] Jli^\fej# k_\ G_`c`gg`e\ :fcc\^\ f] Jli^\fej# Xe[ k_\ ;\ekfe 8% :ffc\p :Xi[`fmXjZlcXi Jli^`ZXc JfZ`\kp% ?\ `j k_\ Z_X`idXe f] k_\ =`c`g`ef Le`k\[ E\knfib Æ LJ8# X ,'( Z * _ldXe`kXi`Xe ]fle[Xk`fe `e k_\ Le`k\[ JkXk\j% <dX`c1 jZXcg\cg\e7^dX`c%Zfd

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Online, nonprofit university makes Diverse magazine’s top five list for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees

NEVADA—For the second year in a row, Western Governors University (WGU) was among the top producers of nursing degrees awarded to minority students nationally, according to a recent issue of Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine. According to the magazine’s “Top Health Science Degree Producers” list, WGU ranked fourth in the nation for the volume of nurses with minority backgrounds who earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the university. In Nevada alone, the number of degrees from WGU Nevada awarded by the College of Health Professions to Nevadans has been 147 so far. The magazine’s report, published annually, lists the top 100 health science degree producers in the U.S. for African American, Hispanic, Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander students. This year, WGU moved up the list from ninth largest producer of master’s degrees to fourth. Since its founding, WGU’s College of Health Professions has awarded 15,000 graduates with degrees. Recently, the National League for Nursing named the nursing programs offered by WGU as a 2015 Center of Excellence™ for Creating Environments that

Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development, one of only 12 nursing schools selected for this designation. “WGU maintains a strong commitment to a diverse student body and encourages a diverse workforce of highly qualified nurses nationwide,” said Dr. Jan Jones-Schenk, National Director of WGU’s College of Health Professions. “Since the beginning, our goal has been to educate and prepare future nursing staff and leaders to be highly competent and well-versed in a multicultural healthcare environment.” The leader in competencybased education, WGU’s learning model is ideal for working nurses as it allows them to study and learn on their own schedule and at their own pace, advancing as soon as they demonstrate that they have mastered course material. Because WGU measures learning rather than time and charges tuition at a flat rate per six-month term, regardless of the number of courses completed, healthcare professionals with knowledge and skills from work and previous college experience can often move through their programs more quickly, saving both time and money. Students receive personalized one-on-one faculty support and have 24/7 access to course materials.

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For more information about WGU’s nursing programs, go to wgu.edu/healthprofessions. Now with 65,000 students and 55,000 graduates nationwide, WGU offers more than 50 online, competency-based bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in the high-demand fields of business, K–12 teacher education, information technology, and health professions, including nursing. The online university is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and its nursing degree programs accredited by the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)*. WGU has been named one of Fast Company’s “Most Innovative Companies” and featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered” NBC Nightly News, CNN’s “Schools of Thought,” and in The New York Times. WGU has earned the support of more than 20 leading corporations and foundations, including AT&T, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Lilly Endowment, HCA, Hewlett-Packard, Lumina Foundation, Microsoft, Oracle, SunGard Higher Education, USA Funds, and Zions Bank. More information is available at wgu.edu or by calling 866.225.5948. *One Dupont Circle, NW, Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036, 202-887-6791

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS A8 E L8 IP ( -

)*i[ 8eelXc JXekf E` f =`\jkX The Batangas City Santo Niño Devotees, USA invites you and family to the 23rd Annual Santo Niño Fiesta on Saturday, January 16 at the St. Christopher Catholic Church (629 South Glendora Ave, West Covina, CA 91790). The fiesta starts with Holy Mass at 2:30pm at the Parish Hall, followed by the procession of the Santo Niño images and our Little Princes and Princesses around the church. Food and refreshments will be served, along with games for children and adults. Drawing of raffle prizes and dancing until 11:00 pm. Come, let’s adore and honor the Santo Niño. For more information, please contact: Tony Panganiban (714) 8283904, Emma Gutierrez (626) 913-5236, Edna Medrano (323) 605-8090, Marina Maranan (818) 894-9745, May Cabrera (626) 264-7822, or Evelyn Masongsong (626) 222-1287.

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Jk% =`eYXi :Xk_fc`Z :_liZ_ \m\ekj - Saturday, January 16 – Feast of Sto. Niño celebration. Sinulog starts at 11:30am. - Saturday, January 23 – Thanksgiving Mass, in honor of San Ildefonso, patron saint of San Ildefonso, Bulacan, at 5:00pm. Followed by lunch celebration from 12:30 - 3:30pm at New Town Buffet. - Saturday, February 6 – Valentine Dinner dance from 7:00 - 11:00pm. Cost of ticket is $30. For more information on all events, please contact Marian Nobleza at 818-219-6463.

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FAMILY IS THE MOST POWERFUL MEDICINE OF ALL! THE RONALD MCDONALD FAMILY ROOM AT SUNRISE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL offers a special place of respite, relaxation and privacy right on hospital grounds. When a child is critically ill or injured, parents are reluctant to leave their side in the hospital. The Family Room provides a small oasis of calm and normalcy amidst the tense, chaotic, medical setting – yet parents remain only steps away from their child’s bedside.

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@e]Xek A\jlj f] GiX^l\ 0 _fli Efm\eX Xe[ DXjj The Infant Jesus of Prague Apostolic Group is celebrating 32 years of service and prayer, and will hold its 32nd annual 9-hour Novena and Mass in honor of the Divine Child Jesus on Saturday, January 30, at Saint Joseph the Worker Church (19855 Sherman Way, Winnetka, California). The Novena starts at 7:00am with Mass following at 3:20 pm. Based in San Fernando Valley, the Apostolic Group aims to promote the Gospel message of Jesus and spread devotions to the Infant Jesus. For more information, please contact Leo Nevada at (818) 633 3926 or visit www.IJPAG.com.

LOOKING FOR:

• Those 18 years of age or older • Compassionate individuals with a desire to assist families in crisis • People comfortable working in a nonclinical hospital setting • Organized, dependable and flexible folks • Volunteers who love to smile!

Santo Niño Cruzada USA, with the participation of the Cathedral Knights of Columbus and a Sinulog group, is inviting everyone for a holy mass to celebrate the 29th anniversary of the Feast of Santo Niño, the Divine Infant Jesus, at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles (555 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012) on Sunday, January 17, at 3:30pm. The main celebrant is Monsignor Kevin Kostelnik, with Father David Gallardo as concelebrant. For more information, please contact any of the following officers: Romy & Tess Esturas (213-387-9682), Rey & Tess Edpao (818-469-7292), Lilia Figuracion (626-394-2661, Carmen Estrada (213-413-2881), Fe Montana (323-218-1587), Ester Paredes (213-864-1149), Fe Reyes (213-413-5286), Laurie Dolorfino (213-407-0097), and Cherry Guerrero (213-632-2096).

FOR MORE INFORMATION

www.rmhlv.org | (702) 252-4663

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Winter beauty guide BY MONET

MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA

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DURING the winter our hair experiences dehydration because of unavoidable exposure. we need to be proactive about maintaining moisture in our hair. For the entire winter months, we want to help you keep your hair and skin keep it shiny and healthy. Hair Reborn, Brazilian keratin treatment, shimmer and shine are the perfect respite for hair that has been subjected to chemical treatments—such as perming, straightening, or tinting. This is also recommended for people who are just aiming to combat dryness during this freezing weather. I tend to sound repetitive about this but I can’t emphasize this enough: moisture, moisturize, moisturize! Remember when a good haircut was enough to put a smile on our faces? If we hold on the little positives in our everyday lives, I have a feeling we’re going to pull through these tough times quite famously. For someone who has been in the business of making people look good, I have some new hairstyle recommendations that are sure to add some hot tone to this cool weather. For long-haired women who have heart-, square- or roundshaped faces, layers will work wonders, provided that it is molded closely to the edge of the hair so that it elongates the face. For an oval-shaped face, shorter layers are more appropriate. Sassy layers are very easy to manage as well. If you have curly hair, bangs should be administered with caution. Make sure it’s slightly above your lashes so that it looks flattering. The thing about bangs though is you have to maintain the ideal length that works for you, otherwise, the effect is not quite there. The bob haircut is here to stay. It’s ideal for women who have straight to wavy hair textures. This is especially flattering for women who have round faces. This type of cut usually requires blow-drying and to maintain the ideal length, you need to have it cut every six weeks. The pixie is ideal for people who have strong facial features. The pixie is easy to manage.

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

A quick blow-dry and a dab of hair product, and you have a chic style that will last the entire day. Just make sure that you apply a little shine serum to towel-dried hair before you put up your hair so that natural texture can be enhanced. This style is so comfy and will also have you feeling relaxed. A slick ponytail can accentuate your features, while also getting annoying tendrils of hair out of your way. To prevent frizzy hair, use a leave-on conditioner or hair tonics that are specific for frizzy hair. If the ponytail is getting boring, try a French braid. It will look chic and will also prevent you looking bedraggled. For your skin, exfoliation is a must to clear away dead cells that can otherwise clog up your pores and cause unsightly pimples that can spoil your summer look. Use a scrub that does not dry your skin or make your own; sugar mixed with a little olive oil is very natural and skin-friendly. Feet need to look good in winter. Scrub your feet with foot scrubs or make your own with some granular salt or sugar and olive oil. Rubbing this into your legs in a gentle upward motion will have dual effects of exfoliating dry skin. Winter is one of those times when less is best. Trying to enhance your natural looks with minimal embellishment will work best. A matte powder over foundation with SPF is better than heavy foundation lotions and creams that will look patchy once you sweat a little. Gloss is best for lips. Lips

need protection as well and it would be best to apply a lip gloss or lip balm with an SPF of 15 or more to keep your lips looking fresh and pert. Eye make-up is a zone of error in winter and you can avoid gaffes by sticking to near-neutral tones of eye shadow and waterproof mascara and liners. A creamy lipstick will be friendlier on the lips than matte lipsticks and will also last longer. Leave your foundation or tinted moisturizer in the refrigerator. When you smooth it on, the heat from your face will melt it into your skin making it look like you have naturally perfect skin. Smudged eyeliner can look great on evenings and you can get this effect by heating the tip of your eye pencil with a lit match just before lining your eyes. Keeping yourself adequately hydrated, adding essential nutrients to diet to avoid the heavier fats and proteins, taking plenty of vitamin C in the form of citrus fruits and juices, and getting the minimum 8 hours of sleep can help you going through winter with good looks and great relaxation. Enjoy your winter and stay beautiful! !!! Dfe\k Cl `j X DXi`b`eX$Yfie# XnXi[$ n`ee`e^ Z\c\Yi`kp Y\Xlkp jkpc`jk n`k_ _`j fne Z_X`e f] Dfe\k JXcfe jXcfej XZifjj Jflk_\ie :Xc`]fie`X Xe[ CXj M\^Xj# E\mX[X% Lck`dXk\cp# Dfe\k `j befne Xj Xe Xcc$Xifle[ Xik`jk\ n_f gif[lZ\j jfc[$flk ]Xj_`fe Xe[ XnXi[j j_fnj Xj n\cc Xj le]fi^\kkXYc\ dXib\k`e^ ZXdgX`^ej% Dfe\k `j Xcjf k_\ ]fle[\i f] k_\ i\mfclk`feXip Xcc$eXkliXc Y\Xlkp gif[lZkj jlZ_ Xj <ec`^_k\e# pfli jfclk`fe kf [`jZfcfiXk`fe% Kf ZfekXZk Dfe\k# gc\Xj\ m`j`k nnn%dfe\kjXcfe%Zfd fi \dX`c _`d Xk dfe\kjXcfe7Xfc%Zfd

ONE man’s junk is another man’s treasure. Flex the power of the dollar by hitting garage sales just for a little fun. There aren’t as many in the summer season as there are in spring. Despite the lingering malaise that currently afflicts the country and despite 93 million plus people still unemployed, many have to still deal with their accumulated stuff, a lot of which have long ago outlived their usefulness. There are moving out sales or yard sales held to decongest and reclaim their living spaces, divest themselves of clutter or simply to make a few extra bucks. If you have too much stuff and would like to simply reclaim your breathing space or to get rid of what has become dust catchers, you can have fun clearing out your stuff and convert them to cash by becoming the seller. The pace could be faster than selling your stuff on ebay. Don’t just kibitz if you are a buyer. Enter the flow. Don’t forget to bring along a few kindred souls, some cash and have some fun garage “sale-ing.” A note of caution is in order. Garage “sale-ing” is one fun activity that can get out of hand if you let it. Particularly during these tough times, a good number of people are becoming creative on how to stretch the fast shrinking dollar and are looking at garage sales, either to sell or to buy. People are selling their stuff accumulated over the years, either at ebay or Craig’s List or right in their own front lawn to generate some extra cash. Particularly for newly arrived immigrants or newly married couples starting a new life who are wary of getting into a whopping financial burden by going into debt at the outset, going to garage sales particularly in affluent areas might be an option. Cash remains king. With a little cash, you can go to garage sales, tag sales, estate sales, swap meets and thrift shops to find practically everything that you will need, and more besides, to set you up in your new place — practically for pennies on the dollar, at least during the beginning years, when you are conserving your resources to prep yourself for the big purchase decisions, e.g. like buying a car or a condo or house, when the time is right.You will be amazed at what you can find. Newer communities with yuppies as residents will have newer, modern, mass-produced plastic

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On how NOT to become a Pack Rat Why do we do it? Why do we encumber ourselves with possessions?

— Alice Thomas Ellis

or vinyl stuff, the kind that you get at Ikea while older communities will have items from the past, perhaps still in working condition but in outdated styles. Unless those wily antique collectors and estate handlers beat you to estate liquidations as they most often will, if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon treasures or heirloom pieces that you only get to see on “Antiques Roadshow” ringing up unbelievable appraisals. Be warned. Appraisals are just benchmarks of value given as expert opinions, from which buyer and seller can begin negotiation and arrive at a purchase price, which can be higher or lower than appraisal value, depending on the motivation and time frame of both buyer and seller and the perceived intrinsic value of the item being sold. Simply because manufacturers are not making more of it, good handcrafted furniture pieces made from mahogany and other prized hardwood of over 100 years or porcelain ware, hold up their value comparatively well as sought-after prized antiques than disposable, ready-to-assemble furniture made from particle board and melamine mass produced in China. Still, there’s no accounting for taste and individual preferences. The younger ones prefer the sheen and gloss of lacquer or the spanking new, modern furniture of plastic, steel or formica over the patina of old, seasoned wood. Whatever your choice, dare to be different. Be creative. Immerse yourself in the books written about styles you would like to emulate. You can have your own style with very little money. Let your imagination and a little elbow grease help you create your own unique haven. The really creative ones do it on a shoestring budget and still have great fun along the way while earning themselves some bragging rights in creating treasures out of junk. Also, you’re doing your environmental bit by recycling. America is a consumer society and the amount of discarded things is simply staggering. Out with the old, in with the new. Every season brings new fashions and trends and since closet, basement and garage spaces are limited (most times, bursting at the

seams) and public storage units cost money, there is an endless round of garage sales going on in America, more so these days when money is tight for many households. You will find that a lot of items, specially for babies and younger children who outgrow their things pretty fast, look almost new and highly usable. Plates, silverware, kitchen items, small and big appliances, decor, furniture, framed art, clothes, videos, audio and video tapes and tools are the usual fare. Many items are still new and in their original packaging. Sometimes, there are genuine antiques or priceless works of art hidden in dust and grime. That’s when you hit paydirt. But such instances are few and far-between, so keep yourself grounded. There is no sales tax. Check your local community newspapers or go online for these weekend events. The early bird gets the early worm. The earlier you come during the day, the better the selection but the prices will be marked a tad higher unless the seller wants to seriously dispose of his merchandise fast and pack up early. The later in the day you come — from noon to early afternoon — the prices are cut drastically, practically at giveaway rates, but the selection is much less, with junk a-plenty. Learn to negotiate. In America, what you get is not what you deserve. Very often, it is what you negotiate. If you are uncomfortable with haggling and if you happen to be with someone who can dicker with the seller in a courteous, pleasant way, get him to do it for you. The key is to be respectful. Never disparage what is being sold in the transparent attempt to get a lower price. Many crafty buyers use this as a tactic and instead of getting a better price, all it does is irritate the seller. If you want a lower price on an item you like, ask politely, “Would you take less for this?” And then state the price you are willing to pay. Very often, the seller will counter with a lower price and then you can proceed from there with the price getting tossed back and forth until you agree on the final figure. Merchandise is sold on an “as is” basis and most of the time, is G8>< 9.

The Boulevard Mall celebrates the Year of the Monkey

One-day event February 10, 2016 in the Boulevard Mall in the main Atrium in front of J.C. Penney features International performances, children’s crafts and lantern station, and a cultural fashion show

LAS VEGAS—The Boulevard Mall announces that it will host its 1st annual Chinese New Year in the Desert Celebration on February 10, 2016 to usher in the Year of the Monkey. “We are excited to be a part of this city-wide celebration,” said Timo Kuusela, Vice-President of The Boulevard Mall. “We wel-

come the Las Vegas community to come out and celebrate with us. The Lunar New Year is a time for family, friends, and giving thanks.” The festivities will take place from 5pm to 7pm. The celebration will include lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, a cultural fash-

ion show, acrobats, traditional Chinese music performances and folk dances. Children can make lanterns in the Craft Area throughout the day. All entertainment is free and open to the public. A full schedule of events can be found: http://www.CNYintheDesert.com.

JAMM Band brings all-new show to M Resort Spa Casino Favorite local band presents Old School Show Friday nights at Ravello Lounge LAS VEGAS—JAMM, Las Vegas’ favorite local band, will bring a new vibe to Ravello Lounge at M Resort Spa Casino on Friday nights. Kicking off Friday, Jan. 15, The Old School Show will have guests up on their feet as they grove to a medley of soul, R&B, Motown and funk hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Doors open at 9 p.m. with DJ Arty on the turn tables and JAMM on stage at 9:45 p.m. There is no cover charge with a two-drink minimum purchase. Guests must be 21 or older. Ravello Lounge offers a variety of settings for an ideal nightlife experience. Grab a cocktail at the central bar or a enjoy bottle service at a VIP booth near the Ravello stage. A high-energy dance floor also provides ample space to dance the night away. JAMM will transport audiences back in time as they deliver a medley of old school favorites from artists like Earth Wind & Fire, Kool & the Gang, Bobby Brown, Prince, Billy Joel and Boyz II Men, with genres ranging from Motown, to disco, to R&B. Lead singer Jonathan Potenciano’s deep, rich vocals captivate as he performs hits from Elton John, Luther Vandross, Lionel Richie and Marvin Gaye. His female counterpart April Develos belts out her powerful, dynamic vocals on Chaka Kahn, Tina Turner and Whitney Houston while vocalist Ricky Bascones effortlessly channels

Michael Jackson and DeBarge. Rounding out the six-person band is guitarist Justin Centeno, drummer Steve Grantham and Pete Sprague on the keys. M Resort Spa Casino is a Forbes Travel Guide Four Star-rated resort located on more than 90 acres at 12300 Las Vegas Blvd. S. on the southeast corner of St. Rose Parkway and Las Vegas Boulevard. Situated higher in elevation than other resort-casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort provides optimal views of the worldfamous Las Vegas skyline from its guest rooms, suites, conference center and restaurants. The resort offers 390 guest rooms and suites,

over 92,000 square feet of gaming, multiple restaurants and bars, more than 92,000 square feet of meeting and conference space, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center and a 100,000 square foot events piazza. M Resort is operated by Penn National Gaming, Inc. and was named one of the Top 10 Las Vegas hotels by Condé Nast Traveler in 2014. M Resort Website: www.theMresort.com M Resort Facebook: www. Facebook.com/mresortspacasino Blog: www.theMresort.com/ blog M Resort Twitter: www.Twitter. com/mresort

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9.

Opportunity Village celebrates Elvis Presley’s birthday UP Concert Chorus Saliw Himig in Las Vegas Special performance by the OV Elvi and the Official Elvis of Las Vegas, Jesse Garon

by

DR. MICHAEL STA JUANA Rresident, Asian Community Resource Center

THE UP Concert Chorus, UPCC, LAS VEGAS—On Friday, Jan. or simply Korus, is the official choir 8, Opportunity Village celebrated of the University of the Philippines. Elvis Presley’s 81st birthday with As an internationally-competitive a special performance by the OV performing group, Korus has masElvi group alongside Jesse Garon, tered versatility in singing classical, the Official Elvis of Las Vegas, at folk, pop and Broadway musical the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & genres with signature vibrant choCasino. The OV Elvi group is part reogra- phy. Korus has become a of Opportunity Village’s Fine and veritable icon of performance arts, Performing Arts Program and is as the pioneer of ChoreoCapella the ‘World’s Only All Elvis Dance or choreographed a capella, in the Troupe.’ Philippines. Crowds gathered for the free Korus garnered the Grand Prix performance as the OV Elvi imat the 6th International Krakow personated Elvis, performed The Choir Festival in Poland on June King’s signature dance moves and 14, 2015 for being the best choir sang backup vocals to some of his of the festival, besting 23 other biggest hits in front of a larger choirs from all over Eu- rope and than life Elvis statue. After the perthe USA. Along with this, Korus formance, the OV Elvi journeyed also won 1st Place in the Mixed through ELVIS: The Exhibition at Choirs Category, and 2nd Place in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & K_\ FM <cm` Xe[ k_\ F]ÔZ`Xc <cm`j f] CXj M\^Xj# A\jj\ >Xife# g\i]fid\[ `e _fefi f] <cm`j Gi\jc\pËj the Folk, Pop, and Gospel Category, Casino. Y`ik_[Xp Xk k_\ N\jk^Xk\ CXj M\^Xj I\jfik :Xj`ef fe =i`[Xp# AXelXip /# )'(-% astounding an international jury com- prised of world-renowned music giants. In another acclaimed festival also held in Poland, the 12th International Festival of University Choirs, Korus left multitude of audiences awestruck with its signature outstanding performance. This earned Korus a spot in the local and in- ternational news headlines, be-

ing the only choir receiving multiple standing ovations during its festival performance alongside 10 other choirs from all over the world. In its Golden Year tour in 2012, Korus joined prestigious international competitions and tri- umphed in all of them. Korus won the First Prize in the Folk Category and Second Prize in the Mixed Category at the Festival Internacional de Musica de Cantonigros in Catalonia, Spain, Korus also won the Gold Diploma and Audience Prize at the 9th Cantemus International Festi- val in Nyiregyhaza, Hungary. With all of these international recognitions, Korus was feted with the 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Aliw Awards Foundation and the 2013 Ani ng Dangal Award by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

Throughout the years, Korus has proven that it has done more than just showcasing exceptional talents. With a brilliant 53-year tradition of compelling interpretations, vibrant choreogra- phy, theatrical expressions, eye-catching costumes, and a charisma that is uniquely Filipino, UPCC continues to revolutionize choral performance arts in the country and even across the world. For the Las Vegas concert it will be held on Jan. 23, 2016 from 7pm at the Celebrity Center, Celebrity Centre, 2761 Emerson, Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89121, is presented by the ACRC. Asian Community Resource Center in collaboration with the the UP Alumni Association of Nevada, Seek Jesus First Ministry and Las Vegas Asian Journal.

G8>< 9not returnable. Buyer, beware. K_\ FM <cm` Xe[ k_\ F]ÔZ`Xc <cm`j f] CXj M\^Xj# Inspect closely. There are more A\jj\ >Xife# kfli\[ <CM@J1 K_\ <o_`Y`k`fe Xk trustworthy sellers than there are k_\ N\jk^Xk\ CXj M\^Xj I\jfik :Xj`ef% hucksters. They will tell you if K_\ FM <cm` Xe[ k_\ F]ÔZ`Xc <cm`j f] CXj M\^Xj# A\jj\ >Xife# g\i]fid\[ X ]\n f] <cm`j Gi\jc\pËj ^i\Xk\jk _`kj Xk k_\ N\jk^Xk\ CXj M\^Xj I\jfik :Xj`ef% the item is working or if there is a crack or a flaw on it. If you are uneasy about not being able to return things, buy the item new in a department store which will usually take it back, if it is defective. G8>< 9* sustain the country’s economic pine cinema. If she were to pick There are no guarantees when Sundays. gains under President Aquino’s just one, which iconic character you buy stuff at garage sales. You “I am effective as a government leadership? If we want those would she choose? Ate Vi andecide on the spot and there is no official because I put a premium gains to reach the grassroots, we swers, “I’d pick Darna, because turning back — most of the time. on the indispensability of a close- need the reforms to continue. We I played her four times, in ‘Lipad, If you want to hone and practice knit family! If I go national and need to focus on intervention and Darna, Lipad,’ ‘Darna and the Giyour decision-making, buying serve the country’s 100 million innovation—those could be key ants,’ ‘Darna and the Planet Womand negotiating skills as an impeople, where does that leave my to reach our all-encompassing en’ and ‘Darna at Ding’—she’s migrant, this is one inexpensive family? I can’t sacrifice them just objective. I don’t tell them whom tough and empowered like me! I (translate that to cheap) way to to satisfy my political ambition. to vote for—but it’s important to portrayed Dyesebel only once.” go. It is also a lighthearted learnI can serve people better if I’m make informed choices! At the Is she looking forward to be- ing experience of what people also effective as a mother and end of the day, nakasalalay ang coming a lola (grandmother)? value and discard on the material wife—that’s my priority!” kinabukasan ng inyong pamilya The legendary actress laughs, level and a personal and up close What does she tell her fol- sa taong ibo-boto ninyo (the future “Yes! I envy my friends. Comethod of interacting with people lowers when they ask for advice of your loved ones are on the line, ney Reyes keeps telling me that of various cultures no book or about whom to choose in the up- so you have to choose wisely). If grandchildren are more adorable classroom can teach you. coming presidential elections? you don’t, you’ll be putting them (laughs)—iba daw ang apo! I keep Above all, have fun garage Vilma says, “I belong to the at risk!” urging Lucky and Gel to give me “sale-ing”. The joy of discovering Liberal Party. It’s crucial to choose On a lighter note, Vilma played one soonest, ‘Sige na naman, I’ve something that you need or want a leader who knows the impor- both Darna and Dyesebel, two of waited long enough—at matatanpractically at a price of a song tance of continuity—how do you the most coveted roles in Philip- da na kayo (laughs)!’” and a dance is part of the whole

experience. But as in all things good and bad, do this with balance and moderation. If you become obssessive-compulsive with even as trifling a thing as going to garage sales as a matter of habit, you can become a pack rat. Employ self-correction. With time and as you accumulate things, you will find yourself holding your own garage sales because you have encumbered yourself with too much stuff. Or you might find yourself renting storage spaces for stuff that won’t fit in your home. When this happens you’ve reached a dangerous tipping point. The time has come to trim your possessions down to size and take back some of that breathing space you used to have. Better yet, when you buy one thing, discipline yourself to get rid of 2 items at the same time. It is a feng shui principle to clear the pathways in your home. Avoid “plaque build-up” in the spaces of your home. Expedite the flow of “chi” or life force by becoming a minimalist. Toss things out. Less is more. From a practi-

cal standpoint, you get back the breathing space you had when you first moved in to your empty abode. Having less stuff also means possibly having more in your piggy bank, that will allow you to have better, more meaningful, fulfilling life experiences at the right time. The ironic thing a recovering pack rat discovers about himself is that as he travels down life’s highways and byways, it is so much more liberating and more fun to travel light, refusing to be bogged down by mere possessions. The bonus is that one gets to journey farther without stressing and straining while loading up instead on life’s precious experiences. In our final journey, the only thing we might bring with us in that big blue yonder, if Alzheimer’s doesn’t wreck our brains first, are our memories. Stuff, after all, is just stuff. ***

On how NOT to become a...

High-wire balancing act for...

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