New York/New Jersey -- February 12 -- 18, 2016 by Asian Journal Community Newspapers

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Volume 10 – Issue 7 • 16 Pages

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C. CABCAUNGAN JR. Inquirer.net

BUCKLE up, folks. The May 9 general elections will likely end up as the wildest, down-to-the-wire political contest this politics-obsessed country has ever seen. And we’re just talking about the presidency. There are no runaway favorites in this year’s mad scramble for Malacañang. The most recent survey shows four presidential candidates have a realistic chance of winning while another is a sentimental favorite who’s running for the third time but who should’ve won at her first crack.

Pundits interviewed by the Inquirer consider this a makeor-break election for Sen. Grace ;@C> J\Zi\kXip DXel\c ÈDXiÉ IfoXj @@ Xe[ :XdXiè\j Jli *i[ ;`jki`Zk I\gi\j\ekXk`m\ DXi`X Poe, Vice President Jejomar Bi- M`Z\ Gi\j`[\ek A\afdXi 9èXp n`k_ J\e% >iè^f ?feXjXe Xe[ k_\ LE8 j\eXkfi`Xc jcXk\ Xk C\fefi ÈC\e`É IfYi\[f# [liè^ k_\ b`Zb f]] ZXdgX`ê jfik`\ è :Xg`q fe Kl\j[Xp# =\Y% 0% nay, Liberal Party (LP) standard- El\m\ [\ G\Yi\if è DXe[Xclpfe^ :`kp% G_`cjkXi%Zfd g_fkf Yp 9fp JXekfj DXcXZX Xe^ g_fkf Yp >`c EXik\X bearer Mar Roxas, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, and Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Winning is everything and the only thing in politics, and defeat could probably mean curtains down for his or her political career. So what’s at stake for losers in these elections? This will probably be the last bus ride to Malacañang for three senior citizens—Binay, 73, Duterte, 70, and Santiago, 70. ;XmXf :`kp DXpfi If[i`^f ;lk\ik\ Xe[ J\e% 8cXe G\k\i J\eXkfi Dì`Xd ;\]\ejfi JXek`X^f Xe[ J\eXkfi =\i[èXe[ But Edmund S. Tayao of the Uni- J\e% >iXZ\ Gf\ Xe[ ileeè^ dXk\ J\e% :_`q <jZl[\if è GcXqX :Xp\kXef Xk k_\ì gifZcXdXk`fe iXccp è Kfe[f# DXe`cX% È9fe^Yfe^É DXiZfj [liè^ k_\ gifZcXdXk`fe iXccp è 9XkXZ

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USA

DATELINE Trump, Sanders win New Hampshire Primary FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

OVER half a million voters cast ballots on Tuesday, Feb. 9 in the New Hampshire primary, a large turnout across the small Northeastern state. Businessman Donald Trump and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders had decisive victories for the nation’s first primary, paving the way to success for the two outsider party candidates in the election. Trump benefitted from an unusually large field of candidates that split the vote among more traditional politicians, reported the New York Times--including former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, who came in second. According to exit polling data, Trump ran strongest among Republican voters who were worried about immigration, the fate of the economy, and the threat of a terrorist attack

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Denver Broncos defeat Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50 Fil-Am Jordan Norwood makes history for longest punt return MILLIONS of Americans tuned in on Sunday, Feb. 7, as the Denver Broncos beat the Carolina Panthers 24-10 to win Super Bowl 50. Playing at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, the Broncos showed off their superior defense, gaining four turnovers — two of which resulted in touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Panthers struggled to ride on the momentum of their nearly undefeated season record. Many analysts noted that Panthers’ quarterback Cam Newton, who was named the 2015 NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP), had an off night, failing to adapt to the Broncos’ rush. He was sacked seven times during the game. During the second quarter of the game, Broncos’ wide receiver Jordan Norwood —

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In Ash Wednesday message, Tagle Aquino, Del Rosario slams hypocrisy of politicians to attend ASEAN-US by TINA

SANTOS Inquirer.net

summit next week

AS the political campaign season unfolded, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle lashed out at the hypocrisy of some people who promote themselves under the guise of “charity.” In his Ash Wednesday homily at the Archdiocese of Manila chapel in Intramuros, Tagle lamented that even charity, supposed to be a path to closer union with God, could be used for selfish interests. He did not mention politicians, but the reference was obvious when he spoke on the first day of Lent, when Catholics had their E<M<I KFF PFLE>% 8 cXp d`e`jk\i Xk 9XZcXiXe :_liZ_ dXibj k_\ ]fi\_\X[ f] X kf[[c\i foreheads marked with ash.

MANILA— Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario will join President Aquino at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-US summit next week. US President Barack Obama will host the leaders of the 10-member ASEAN on Feb. 15 and 16 at Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage, California, Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said. The summit aims to build deeper partnerships that the US has forged with ASEAN since 2009 and further advance Washington’s rebalance to Asia and the Pacific. The US and the ASEAN have worked toward stability, prosperity and peace in Southeast Asia for nearly 40 years. The event will provide leaders a forum to strengthen

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by PIA LEE-BRAGO Philstar.com

Ramos throws support behind Leni Robredo, but is mum on Roxas by CARLA

GOMEZ AND DJ YAP Inquirer.net

A DAY before the official launch of the campaign period, Liberal Party (LP) vice presidential candidate Leni Robredo has won the support of a prominent and powerful personality, former President Fidel V. Ramos, according to her staff. In a news release Monday, Feb. 8, the Robredo camp announced that Ramos had officially endorsed the candidacy of Robredo following a visit to Ramos’ office in Makati.

The candidate’s publicist provided photos of the visit Monday morning, including one showing the former President raising Robredo’s arm. There was, however, no word on whether the 87-year-old Ramos would do the same for Robredo’s running mate, LP standard-bearer Mar Roxas. In December, Ramos reproached Roxas and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte for their public spat, advising the presidential candidates to start acting like a president, if they wanted to

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Iraq vows speedy repatriation of remains of OFWs in hotel fire the Philippine embassy in Baghdad said Kurdistan regional government’s Minister of Health Rekawt Rashid MANILA—Authorities in Iraq’s Kurd- Karim and Minister of Labor and Soish region have assured the Philippine cial Affairs Mohammad Qadir assured embassy that they would facilitate the embassy officials on Monday that the repatriation of the remains of 13 Filipi- regional government would do everyno workers who perished in the fire at a thing possible to facilitate the repatriahotel in Erbil last Friday, Feb. 8. tion of remains. Charge d’Affaires Elmer Cato of “The embassy said it normally by PIA LEE-BRAGO Philstar.com

takes from two weeks to a month to repatriate remains from Kurdistan. But Kurdish officials are really going out of their way to help us bring our kababayans home so that they could be with their families as soon as possible,” Cato said. Embassy officials inspected the scene of the fire at Capitol Hotel. Investigators said faulty wiring at

the basement of the hotel where the Filipinos were working triggered the blaze. The victims, all female, were suffocated by the smoke while trying to find their way out. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday the embassy is in discussion with representatives of

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FROM THE FRONT PAGE

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versity of Santo Tomas’ Department of Political Science said that “win now” was also the mantra of Roxas who, albeit still middleaged at 58 years old, could not afford to lose a national election back-to-back, especially coming off from the bitter defeat in what was supposed to be a cakewalk to the vice presidency in 2010. “It will surely be a big blow not only to his political career but also to his morale. But more than that, losing also means that the proverbial endorsement power of an Aquino may now be diluted,” Tayao said. Most to lose Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello, who is seeking a Senate seat, >8C@E> 8K GLJF% KXigXlcèj [`jgcXp\[ è ]ifek f] Hl`Xgf :_liZ_ Y\Xi k_\ `dX^\j f] j\eXkfij >iXZ\ Gf\ Xe[ =iXeZ`j <jZl[\if% K_\ì k\Xd# said that among the five candik_\ GXik`[f >Xcè^ Xk Gljf G>G f]ÔZ`Xccp b`Zb\[ f]] k_\ì ZXdgX`ê fe Kl\j[Xp# =\Y% 0 Xk k_\ _`jkfi`Z GcXqX DìXe[X# aljk è ]ifek k_\ dates, Roxas and Binay had the Hl`Xgf :_liZ_ è DXe`cX% K_\ jkXik f] k_\ ZXdgX`ê ZXd\ Xk X k`d\ Xj Gf\ Zfekèl\[ kf b\\g _\i c\X[ è k_\ cXk\jk gi\j`[\ek`Xc jlim\pj most to lose. Zfe[lZk\[ Yp k_\ Glcj\ 8j`X Xe[ k_\ JkXe[Xi[$CXpcf Xe[ Xj k_\ Jlgi\d\ :flik i\jld\[ `kj fiXc Xi^ld\ekj fe k_\ [`jhlXc`ÔZXk`fe ZXj\j Bello said that a Roxas defeat X^Xèjk _\i% @ehlì\i%e\k g_fkf Yp I`Z_Xi[ I\p\j would not only have personal consequences, it would also This invitation, he said, rings out mean payback lawsuits against to Christians to take the Lenten LP members for their purported indiscretions in the last six years, call to conversion seriously. G8>< 8( t giving could bring a person farTagle also emphasized the particularly Budget Secretary “This is why Jesus said when ther from God. message of the Gospel reading Butch Abad and President Aquiyou give alms, don’t be noisy Tagle reminded the faithful that in which Jesus rereads the three no. about it. Don’t have a barrage of real generosity of spirit was doing works of mercy—almsgiving, “If Mar loses, expect the prosphotos taken when you’re donat- something for someone without prayer, and fasting. ecution of Butch Abad for DAP ing to the poor. That’s the work of their knowledge. Acceleration He stressed that fasting goes (Disbursement hypocrites who only want people He tackled some concerns such beyond reducing one’s food in- Program) and the President for to say ‘Wow, look at him, he’s re- as poverty and environment but take. DAP and Mamasapano. Abad ally charitable, he’s helpful to oth- reserved his more impassioned “Fasting is not dieting. It’s giv- will probably end up in jail but ers,’” he said in Filipino. words for ordinary people whose ing, almsgiving, sharing,” he said. it’s unlikely that the Office of the The cardinal warned that doing struggles are worsened by some Tagle reminded Catholics that Ombudsman and the Sandiganacts of charity contrary to its true people’s “selfish” thirst for pow- Lent is a time for renewal, with bayan will convict Aquino. Abad meaning is like rubbing salt in the er. special attention to the suffering will most likely fall on his sword wound. for his boss on DAP,” Bello said. “There will be a lot of char- of others and helping them. “Charity that doesn’t think of ity work in the days to come but For Binay, Bello said winning He said one way to help was by others, giving donations, giving how many will be true service? Or supporting the archdiocese’s Pon- Malacañang was like getting a alms but calling attention to one- these may just be self-promotion,” do ng Pinoy and the Fast2Feed of “get out of jail free card” because self is not charity. It is an insult to Tagle said. Hapag-Asa, a program aimed at he was expected to be impristhe recipient,” he stressed. According to him, Lent is a sea- feeding hungry and malnourished oned for his alleged deals while He added that this kind of alms- son for reconciliation with God. children. ■ he was mayor of Makati City.

In Ash Wednesday message...

Ramos throws support… G8>< 8( t

get the job. Her staff said the widow of Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo asked Ramos for advice on running her campaign. “In the meeting, Ramos shared his campaign experience in 1992 and offered Robredo some advice on how to woo voters as she visits different parts of the country starting tomorrow (Tuesday),” according to the news release. According to her staff, Robre-

do told Ramos: “I came here to ask for your support.” The former President was quoted as having replied: “You’ve always had it. You didn’t even have to come.” Meanwhile, Robredo was the keynote speaker at the opening of Zonta International District 17 Area 3 meeting at Sugarland Hotel in Bacolod City on Friday. She said a nation that is ruled in justice and fairness is busi-

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Tayao said Duterte and Poe had the least to lose in these elections. “Mayor Duterte has declared a number of times he would retire after this, win or lose. His daughter who is equally revered in Davao, Sara Duterte, may very well sustain their hold on the city. On the other hand, losing may be taken to mean a local figure will have to start with a lower position, say at the Senate before running for President for one to get a chance,” Tayao said. Poe has the least at stake in the race because she still has three years remaining in her senatorial term, unless she loses her citizenship case in the Supreme Court. Wild, wild elections These elections, however, will not be for the faint-hearted. Ako Bicol Rep. Rodel Batocabe said that these would be the most unpredictable elections ever not only because voter preference was so dispersed, but because of the variables that had yet to unfold in the next three months before Election Day. Batocabe cited the Supreme Court’s decision on whether to allow Poe to run; the health issues hounding some candidates; the final shift in political alliances; and the final candidates of big-money financiers. The LP political affairs chief, Caloocan Rep. Edgar Erice, said Poe’s disqualification case due to questions on her citizenship and residency issues would be a “game-changer” in the elections. With so much unpredictability, Batocabe said this year’s elections were bound to be the most expensive ever as each presiden-

tial candidate would go all out in their ad spending on television, radio, print and social media because most of them believe they have a chance to win it all. Batocabe said the Commission on Elections (Comelec) had all but guaranteed this spending bonanza when it allowed candidates to use up to 120 minutes of TV airtime and 180 minutes of radio ads for each station when previously these were computed on an aggregate basis for all stations. Hotbed of intrigue Adding more drama in this year’s campaign is the lack of solid political alliances where a presidential candidate has one running mate and a solid ticket of senators, he said. This year’s elections have become a hotbed of intrigue with numerous combinations of presidential and vice presidential candidates (Grace-Leni, Binay-Chiz, Duterte-Bongbong) and senators backed by multiple presidential candidates, such as former Sen. Miguel Zubiri who was endorsed by Poe, Binay and Duterte. Another factor in the hurlyburly elections is the continued ascent of the Marcos family back to power 30 years after they were booted out of Malacañang. Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has made the vice presidential race as interesting as the presidential race. President Aquino has taken note and this could provide more impetus to personally campaign for the LP people. The “daang matuwid” coalition spokesperson, Marikina Rep. Romero Quimbo, is sure of one thing: If all five presidential candidates finish the race, the

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Aquino… Iraq vows speedy repatriation of remains …

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cooperation on political security and economic issues under the new US-ASEAN strategic partnership, which was launched in November 2015 in Kuala Lumpur. Del Rosario has resigned for health reasons effective March 7. President Aquino accepted his resignation, according to Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. The DFA is mum on Del Rosario’s replacement. ■

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the 13 Filipinas with regard to the cost of repatriation and possible financial assistance to the families. “It is actually the responsibility of the employer to shoulder the cost of repatriation should death occur during contract of employment,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said. The embassy is in touch with authorities and hospitals to issue the documents needed to support

the repatriation of the remains. “The embassy is really working hard to have the remains repatriated to the Philippines at the earliest possible time,” Jose said. The embassy said on Monday that all 13 Filipinas killed in the hotel fire in Erbil in northern Iraq have been identified. The DFA did not disclose the identities of the victims. “As a matter of policy we don’t disclose the identities,”

Jose said. On the other hand, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will be helping in the immediate repatriation of the remains of the 13 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Iraq. Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said she ordered OWWA to facilitate and fast-track the delivery of welfare assistance to the families of the 13 Filipinos. According to Baldoz, the fami-

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Trump, Sanders win New Hampshire…

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in the US. It was also his first win among first-time voters in a Republican primary. According to exit polls, 45 percent of Republican voters said they preferred a president with political experience, such as Kasich or Bush. However, with more than 80 percent of New Hampshire precincts reporting, Trump received 35.3 percent of the overall vote, around 100,406 total, and 30-40 percent of the vote among many demographic groups. Trump also beat out four Republicans, who each received less than 20 percent of the overall vote. On the Democratic side, Sanders beat out Hillary Clinton by over 55,000 votes, with 60.4 percent to Clinton’s 38 percent. Sanders’ win proved a painful

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winner will not be the choice of the majority of the voters. “Judging from all the survey numbers coming out, it’s absolutely anybody’s ball game. And certainly, it’s a race down to the wire. Everyone agrees that whoever wins this, will be a minority President. At the onset, he will be immediately faced with a mandate challenge. A minority President will only succeed if he’s a unifier—someone who will be acceptable to the supporters of other presidential candidates,” Quimbo said. “Only Mar fits that bill—no record of corruption, consensus builder, a great courtier of opponents. It would be a shame to throw away all the country’s accomplishments in the last six years if we end up voting for a minority President who’s polarizing and divisive,” he added. Valenzuela Mayor Rex Gatchalian said that Poe, should she win, would be willing to work with everybody in moving her programs forward. Compromises “Naturally, because of her independent status she will not have incumbent party mates to boast off. Despite this, she will reach across the aisle working with all organized political parties to make her programs for the people turn into reality. Running as an independent, Senator Poe enjoys the advantage of making her government inclusive—being able to cross party lines to get things done,” said Gatchalian, Poe’s spokesperson. “It’s ‘tayo rather than kami’ or breaking the traditional mold of only being able to work within the confines of your political party. Senator Poe will be able to transcend the restrictive traditional concepts of governance through political parties,” Gatchalian said. But Bello said that any President would find a way to make compromises, just like in the past. “I think there has never been a minority President in this country since whoever is elected has been able to use the tremendous powers of the President to immediately construct an overweening majority. This is a great flaw here since the traditional way of constructing majorities on personal and political grounds will preclude the kind of coalitions based on common stands that are so necessary today. This personalist-political compromises are

what derailed ‘daang matuwid,’” Bello said. Whether majority or minority President, Bello said the country’s new leader would have to tackle head on the next administration’s biggest problems—a spurned Muslim Mindanao still licking its wounds from the nonpassage of the much-hyped proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and a discontented population increasingly left out of the spoils of the country’s rising economy. “If the next admin does not prioritize the BBL bill and pass it within the first year, I expect the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) to return to combat, if only to outflank BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters) and Isis (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria), which would reap tremendous political advantage from the failure of the BBL. Expect Isis to convert not only the whole of Mindanao but the whole country into a battleground as they seek out US troops to draw into battle,” said Bello. Bello said the next President would have to act quickly on ensuring inclusive growth or risk being hobbled by “conservative economic management that will hesitate to undertake more fundamental reforms like legislating security of tenure for workers and more aggressive agrarian reform and is stuck with the highly inadequate CCT (conditional cash transfer).” But Bello is not keeping up his hopes that this year’s elections would end up differently from previous versions. “I am afraid none of the presidential candidates realize the enormity of the problems we face demand solutions outside the coordinates of traditional politics and the winner will most probably reign in the same old way until it’s too late. The failure of Aquino is not only the failure of a politician who was out of his depth but also the failure of the politics he was socialized into,” he said. Eradicating poverty The United Nationalist Alliance president, Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, said the Vice President was clear on what was at stake in the elections: “It’s not about Binay or any of the other candidates, it’s about eradicating poverty.” Tiangco brushed aside fears that Binay would be a vengeful leader and hound the administration officials who persecuted

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Ramos throws support…

G8>< 8) t ness-friendly. “Investment in integrity and good governance makes huge business sense,” she said, adding that good governance is accompanied by jobs, growth and less poverty. “We might have attracted some attention in the last four years, and became the new darling of emerging markets, but unless we sustain our reforms on the governance plane, that attention will once again fizzle out and we will go back to square one,” Robredo said.

“This campaign for good governance and this kind of public service that aims not to leave any Filipino behind have become my work as I try to fill my husband’s shoes,” she said, as she stressed the need to empower people. Since she became a representative of Camarines Sur, Robredo said she had brought in billions in funding for infrastructure and social services to her district using innovative means to source money within the bureaucracy and from private-public partnerships. ■

him. “Binay still considers P-Noy a friend and the friendship should not be affected by politics. P-Noy is assured to be accorded what is due him as a former President,” Tiangco said. Tiangco said a Binay presidency would ensure the independence of the Office of the Ombudsman and the Sandiganbayan and that these entities would not be used against political opponents or to protect allies. ■

rejection of Clinton, who was known to reflect the views and have a good relationship with New Hampshire voters, particularly women. The state supported her husband in 1992, while Bill Clinton was on the path toward the Democratic nomination, and in the general elections of 1996. However, Sanders’ rhetoric on a liberal political agenda and greater regulation on Wall Street drew larger support from voters, including young people and women. “Together we have sent a message that will echo from Wall Street to Washington, from Maine to California,” Sanders said. “And that is that the government of our great country belongs to all of the people, and not just a handful of wealthy campaign contributors and their ‘super PACs.’”

It was a surprise to both parties, while many believed voters would stick to their roots embracing more experienced candidates like Clinton or one of the Republican lawmakers. However, disastrous debate performances have affected some campaigns, including Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who stood out during the Iowa caucuses but slid rapidly towards the fifth and last place in the primary as final results were tallied. The opposition to Trump and Iowa Caucus winner Ted Cruz is divided, CNN said, and the GOP race remains crowded. After doing poorly in the polls, both Carly Fiorina and Chris Christie also dropped out of the presidential race on Feb. 10. The former HP executive promised to “continue to serve in order

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Iraq vows speedy repatriation of remains …

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lies of the victims who are members of the OWWA would receive the mandated benefits. Legal heirs of OWWA members who perished in accidents are entitled to death and funeral benefits of P220,000. The dependents may also avail of OWWA scholarships, such as the OFW Dependents Scholarship Program which provides P20,000 per year for a course leading to a baccalaureate or associate degree in a state college or university. “They may also avail of the Education for Development Scholarship Program, which provides P60,000 per school year

for courses leading to a four-tofive year baccalaureate course in any college or university; or the Education and Livelihood Assistance Program for survivors of deceased OFWs consisting of P5,000 expense subsidy for elementary, P8,000 for high school, and P10,000 for college (per school year) and livelihood assistance of P15,000 for the surviving spouse,” she said. For non-OWWA members, the DOLE’s National Reintegration Center for OFWs is ready to extend assistance. Meanwhile, the 13 Filipino workers that were injured in the earthquake that struck Taiwan last Saturday have been dis-

charged from hospital, Jose said, citing a report from the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO). “We received a report from our representative office there, MECO, that they were informed by relevant Taiwanese authorities that there were actually 13 Filipinos who sustained very minor injuries during the earthquake. All these 13 have been given appropriate immediate attention and treatment and all discharged from the hospital,” Jose said in a press briefing. Jose, however, said MECO still has to independently verify the number of Filipinos who sustained minor injuries. ■

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Obama sends Congress record $4.1 trillion 2017 fiscal budget by ALLYSON

ESCOBAR

AJPress

PRESIDENT Barack Obama sent Congress his eighth and final budget of his presidency on Tuesday, Feb. 9. The proposal includes a spending record of $4.1 trillion on a number of initiatives, from a new war on cancer to combating global warming to fighting growing threats from Islamic State militants. “While it is important to take stock of our progress, this Budget is not about looking back at the road we have traveled. It is about looking forward and making sure our economy works for everybody, not just those at the top,” the President states in an emailed fact sheet on the 2017 fiscal year budget. “It is about choosing investments that not only make us stronger today, but also reflect the kind of country we aspire to be--the kind of country we want to pass on to our children and grandchildren.” The proposed spending plan applies for the budget year that begins Oct. 1, just three-anda-half months before he leaves office, according to the Associated Press. It addresses issues such as climate change, healthcare, opportunities for small businesses and students, as well as national and economic security. Obama already faces heavy fire from the GOP-controlled Congress, which is not expected to approve the proposal, and has called it “dead on arrival.” Overall, Obama’s budget would increase taxes by $2.6 trillion in the coming decade-- nearly double the $1.4 trillion in new taxes Obama sought and failed to achieve in last year’s budget. Congressional Republicans have already said they will ignore the proposal, rather than engage in another round of “fiscal brinksmanship” with the president, said the Washington Post. “President Obama will leave office having never proposed a budget that balances — ever. This isn’t even a budget so much as it is a progressive manual for growing the federal government at the expense of hardworking Americans,” said House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis). GOP lawmakers said Obama’s proposal to impose a $10-perbarrel tax on crude oil--in order to bring in an additional $319 billion in revenue--had “no chance

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of congressional approval.” The administration announced they would use the money to fund billions of dollars in alternative transportation programs as part of the president’s efforts to deal with global warming. Ryan also pledged that House Republicans would produce a budget that does reach balance in coming weeks. “In 2016, we will make it our goal to pass all 12 appropriation bills through regular order,” Ryan said back in December, laying out his plans for the year ahead. “This hasn’t been done since 1994--but it’s how Congress ought to operate so that we can better protect the taxpayer dollars and make our place the true representative body that it is.” Even with the increased taxes, Obama’s budget projects sharply higher deficits in the near future, totaling $9.8 trillion over the next decade. Last summer, Obama’s baseline forecast a deficit of $8 trillion over the next decade. Much of the deficit problem stems from the surge in spending on benefit programs like Social Security and Medicare, whose budgets are predicted to soar with the retirement of millions of baby boomers. The budget sees the economy growing at a 2.6 percent rate this year, although administration officials noted that projection was finalized in November, before recent stock market slide. Inflation would remain low, registering a 1.5 percent gain this year.

Obama’s new budget projects a deficit for the current 2016 budget year of $616 billion, which is sharply higher than the latest forecast by the Congressional Budget Office (totaling $544 billion). Republicans have long complained that Obama has failed to attack the chief cause of future deficits. Previous Obama budgets did propose such things as slowing the automatic inflation increase for Social Security. However, the President abandoned those proposals when it became clear that Republicans were opposed to his suggestions to raise taxes on the wealthy in order to benefit programs for the working poor. On Tuesday, White House officials expressed their goal to obtain bipartisan support for a number of Obama’s initiatives, such as the effort to combat heroin and opioid addiction, fund a “moonshot” initiative to cure cancer, and expand tax credits for the working poor. Other elements of his proposal include ideas to appeal to Democrats: increasing Pell Grants for college students from low-income backgrounds; bolster funds for the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission; funding the Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI); and renewing incentives for GOP-governed states to join the expanded Medicaid system, established under his landmark health care law. Separately, Obama has also proposed $1.8 billion in emergency spending to combat the Zika virus, on top of the $1.1 trillion catchall spending bill that passed in December. The budget also pledges to increase military spending to fight terrorist threats, and help make Americans safer. It includes increased support (around $19 billion) for cybersecurity, upgrading computers across government agencies in the wake of last year’s major federal hack, which compromised the personal information of 21 million Americans. “The budget that we are releasing today reflects my priorities and the priorities I believe will help advance security and prosperity for America for many years to come,” Obama told reporters at the White House. ■

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National labor board rules in favor of fired Fil-Am nurse by CHRISTINA

M. ORIEL

AJPress

PASADENA, Calif. — The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) found merit to allegations that two Asian American registered nurses were illegally terminated from Huntington Memorial Hospital in this city. The nurses, Allysha Almada and Vicki Lin, were joined by city officials and community leaders to applaud the labor board’s decision at a press conference on Thursday, Feb. 4. “…The first emotion I felt hearing about the NLRB ruling was a state of shock and then it easily turned into elation,” Almada, a 28-year-old Filipino-American nurse told the Asian Journal. “It’s an, us versus them, David versus Goliath, kind of situation. Here we are, we’re going up against a large community hospital that has millions of dollars to essentially spend fighting us when that money should be going to patient care. We’ve seen them direct money and funds from patients into fighting organizing efforts. This definitely feels that yes, we were in the right.” Almada and Lin, both of whom were working in the intensive care unit, were terminated in August of last year, after spearheading a union organizing drive under the California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU) and publicly speaking about deteriorating conditions (i.e. short staffing and inadequate supplies) at the hospital. Registered nurses at the hospital began organizing with CNA/ NNU in May 2014, but many voted against representation the following year after they were allegedly intimated to do so by hospital officials. “When this [firing] first happened, I felt very hopeless. I was very scared and I didn’t know what to do,” Lin said. The union filed an unfair labor practice charge with the NLRB challenging the dismissal last year, which the labor board responded to on Friday, Jan. 29 by siding with the nurses. Lin added, “what happened to me can happen to anyone and that’s why we need union representation to protect our rights along with our patients. Nurses need job protection. We need someone to advocate for us, so we can advocate for our patients.” In a statement emailed to the Asian Journal, Huntington Hospi-

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tal’s spokesman Derek Clark said the union’s flyers and statements have been filled “with patently false information.” Responding to allegations that the nurses were fired for unionizing, the hospital asserted that it was because the pair violated employment policies. “We stand by our decisions and course of actions – and believe they are in accordance with employment laws, our employment practices and in the best interests of maintaining patient safety and providing the highest quality of patient care,” Clark said, adding that the hospital looks “forward to a resolution in our favor from the NLRB.” Each week, the union has also gathered signatures from members of the Pasadena community in support of the nurses’ reinstatement, and has attempted to deliver them to the hospital CEO. “I am grateful and humble that so many people feel strongly about our cause and want to support us that they are willing to sign a petition or willing to come out to our delegation,” Almada said. Since her firing, the Fil-Am has continued to advocate for nurses’ rights and quality patient care. In October, she attended the White House Summit on Worker Voice, where she briefly met President Barack Obama. She also spoke at a press conference alongside Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and met with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). Though Almada is currently

working at another hospital in Los Angeles, she is fighting to get her job back at Huntington Hospital. “It is definitely a point to be made in that…me coming back to the hospital could show nurses — not only at Huntington, but throughout the world — that when we stand together, when we organize [and] when we have a strong collective voice, we can accomplish a lot,” she said. Tessie Costales, a Fil-Am registered nurse at Kaiser LA Medical Center and CNA leader, called on hospital leaders to abide by the NLRB’s announcement. “I couldn’t believe what they did to these two nurses. They built a case just to instill fear in the nurses and they made [Allysha and Vicki] guinea pigs to show nurses not to vote for the union… I think Huntington leaders should respect the ruling of the NLRB. They did not find any merit on the case,” said Costales. “Delays would only mean a waste of resources.” She also called on the local FilAm community to join in on any rallies and sign petitions on behalf of the nurses. “Although this unfortunate event happened to us, our victory is so important to show that when you have the backing of thousands of nurses — behind you, standing up for you…[and] your federally protected rights — it is powerful and impactful. Together as a community, together as nurses, we will win this fight. We will win justice and we will make Huntington a better place and a better asset to the city of Pasadena,” Almada said. ■

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who is a quarter Filipino — set a Super Bowl record with a 61yard punt return. Norwood received the punt at the Broncos’ 25-yard line and ran it down the right sideline all the way to the Panthers’ 14-yard line. Though Norwood’s run was unable to secure a touchdown, Denver earned a field goal that put them ahead 13-7.

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to restore citizen government to this great nation so that together we may fulfill our potential,” while New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie came in sixth place, reflecting that he had not “an ounce of regret” for the experience in New Hampshire. “I have won both elections that I was supposed to lose and I have lost elections that I was supposed to win,” Christie said on Tuesday night. “And what that means is you never know, and it’s both the magic and the mystery of politics that you never quite know when which is going to happen--even when you think you do.” (Allyson Escobar/AJPress)

The previous record was a 45-yard return by 49ers wide receiver John Taylor in Super Bowl XXIII against the Cincinnati Bengals. At 39 years old, Peyton Manning of the Broncos became the oldest starting quarterback in Super Bowl history. Manning, whose 18-year career includes includes two Super Bowl titles and 200 career wins, is expected to retire, though he has yet to announce that decision. He is also the first quarterback to win a Super Bowl with two different teams, winning Super Bowl XLI with the Indianapolis Colts. “You know, I’ll take some time to reflect,” Manning said during a post-game interview. “I have a couple of priorities first. I want to go kiss my wife and my kids, I want to go hug my family. I’m going to drink a lot of Budweiser tonight. I promise you that. I’m going to take care of those things first, and say a little prayer to thank the man upstairs for this great opportunity. I’m just very grateful.” For six tackles, 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles — leading to defensive and offensive touchdowns — Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller was named

MVP following the game. Sunday marked the Broncos’ third Super Bowl title in franchise history. ”We had our opportunities. There wasn’t nothing special that they did. We dropped balls. We turned the ball over, gave up sacks, threw errant passes. That’s it. They scored more points than we did,” Panthers quarterback Newton said after the game. Aside from the game itself, the most-anticipated part of the game was the halftime show, featuring Coldplay, Beyonce and Bruno Mars. Against a colorful backdrop, Coldplay delivered a medley of their hits, but guest stars Beyonce, performing her new song “Formation,” and Bruno Mars, singing and grooving to Uptown Funk,” stole the show. Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach — who was reporting as a special correspondent for “Inside Edition” — praised Beyonce on Twitter, saying “From Queen to Queen, @Beyonce you owned the show! –Pia.” Super Bowl 50 was the thirdmost-watched television program in the United States with 111.9 million viewers, falling short to beat the viewership records from the last two years. (AJPress)

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Pres. Aquino invited Grace Poe to his birthday party by NIKKO

DIZON

Inquirer.net

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Trillanes posts bail for libel case filed by Mayor Binay by MIKE

FRIALDE Philstar.com

MANILA—Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV posted P10,000 bail on the libel case that former Makati mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. filed against him on Tuesday, Feb. 9. Shortly after arriving from the US, he went to Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 142 before 11 a.m. and met with Judge Dina Pestaño Teves in her office. Teves had ordered the arrest of Trillanes after the Department of Justice found probable cause to indict him for libel. Trillanes told reporters after the meeting with Teves that he had posted bail to show that he would face whatever case Vice President Jejomar Binay would hurl against him. “These are his tactics,” he said in Filipino. “He is using his influence and power to frighten and confuse his political opponent.” Trillanes said the libel case that former mayor Binay had filed against him is a form of harassment coming from Vice President Binay who is now running for president. “He (Binay) is not yet president,” he said in Filipino. “More so when he becomes president, he would use his office to pin down his opponents.” Trillanes said he is not cowed by the libel case and he vowed to fight it in court. “We will have different remedies to resolve this harassment suit,” he said in Filipino. “Nevertheless, we shall stand

against it. We will not back out. I will be more encouraged to ensure that the Binays would no longer hold any post.” Trillanes said his lawyers are still readying his motion for reconsideration to be filed with the DOJ. He is comfortable having the libel case tried in a Makati court where he was previously tried for coup d’etat over his alleged participation in the Oakwood Mutiny and for the Manila Peninsula siege, he added. Critic of Binay or Duterte Trillanes said he would serve as critic of a president Binay or Rodrigo Duterte if he is elected vice president. In an interview with Mike Enriquez over radio dzBB , Trillanes said he doesn’t expect to get any government post in a Duterte or Binay administration. “We have different views,” he said. “So we will be watching abuses and excesses he would be committing, particularly on the curtailment of basic liberties,” he said of Duterte. Trillanes cautioned voters against being swayed by Duterte’s anti-crime campaign promises. Despite his 28 years in government service, Duterte has failed to stamp out illegal drugs in Davao City, he added. Trillanes said Duterte has also sanctioned extrajudicial killings to fight criminality. “When he becomes president what can he do?” he asked. “Give license to the police to just kill anybody. That’s always

the possibility. We should not be swayed by his boastful words.” Trillanes said he would be closely watching all of Binay’s dealings in case Binay becomes president and he is elected vice president. His victory would be nothing if he wins as vice president and the next president is corrupt, he added. Therefore he has included in his campaign advocacies to convince the people to pick the right president. Trillanes said he has nothing against Liberal Party standardbearer Manuel Roxas II and People’s Reform Party presidential candidate Miriam DefensorSantiago. His group is throwing its support behind the presidential candidacy of Sen. Grace Poe, he added. Trillanes said if he wins the vice presidential race, he is open to working with either Roxas, Santiago or Poe if one of them is elected president. “I think we can cooperate and work together,” he said. “But for the two, Binay and Duterte, we will be watching them for their excesses.” It is his duty to expose their excesses for the public to know and for Congress to decide if it warrants impeachment proceedings, he added. Trillanes said he is just doing his duty by exposing alleged anomalies of Binay, just like what they did at Oakwood in 2003 against the Arroyo administration.

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Señeres, labor rights champion, dies; 68 by DJ

YAP Inquirer.net

IT WAS “victory enough,” according to his son, that other presidential aspirants were adopting his lifelong advocacy: the rights of Filipino workers here and abroad. Three days after quitting the presidential race, OFW Family Club Rep. Roy Señeres Sr., champion of migrants and the Filipino working class, died of cardiopulmonary arrest on Monday, Feb. 8 after a prolonged bout with diabetes, his son said. He was 68. Hans Christian Señeres said his father, a former ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and former chair of the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC), had complained of exhaustion in recent weeks, prompting his hospitalization at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City and the subsequent withdrawal of his candidacy in the May 9 balloting. But his death at 8:07 a.m. on Monday still came as a deep shock to the family. “He went into cardiac arrest at 4 in the morning. Then we lost him at past 8,” he told the Inquirer on the phone. “It’s still just sinking in,” Christian said. The party-list lawmaker left behind his wife and six children. Señeres, who spent his first term in Congress advocating the welfare of OFW (overseas Filipino worker) families, career diplomats, poor workers and government employees, announced his candidacy in October as the standard-bearer of Partido ng Manggagawa at Magsasaka. His platform centered on labor and migrant rights and inclusive growth. In a statement explaining his decision to quit the presidential race, Señeres said he was advised by his doctor to avoid the rigors of the campaign. “I [withdraw] with the blessings of my family and upon the recommendation of my doctor who has advised me to avoid stress due to my long-standing diabetes to prevent the complications thereof,” his statement read. Christian said his father had seemed quite vigorous when he first announced his candidacy.

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“He was healthy. He was totally active,” he recalled. But in the months afterward, Señeres’ health began to fail him. “In my last conversation with him, he told me he was not feeling well,” his son said. Señeres studied political science at University of Santo Tomas in 1967, and earned his law degree at San Beda College four years later. His lifetime advocacy for labor rights began when he served as officer, in various capacities, at the Department of Labor and Employment from 1972 to 1975. Later, he was appointed labor attache in the United Arab Emirates under the Fidel Ramos presidency, until he was transferred to Washington, DC, with the same post, in the early 1990s. Then he returned to the United Arab Emirates as ambassador, serving there until 1998. Señeres headed the NLRC in 2000 under then President Joseph Estrada, until he quit in 2005, in the mass protests against the Arroyo administration. As congressman, he authored at least 30 bills, many of which pushed for reforms to provide legal and health care assistance to migrant workers, including a

proposal to establish “OFW family help desks” in all local government units. His remains will be buried at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City. Malacañang on Monday condoled with the Señeres family. “We sympathize with his family. He was the lead advocate of the rights of workers as head of the NLRC and as Ambassador to the Middle East,” said Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. A senatorial candidate, Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, said Señeres would be remembered for his compassion for the plight of workers. “He is a man of strength and exemplary deeds. His passing is a great loss to Congress and to all the people who know him,” Romualdez said in a text message. Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said the Filipino labor sector lost a champion in Señeres. “He is a great loss to our overseas Filipino workers’ community having spent most of his life in championing their concerns as well as those of the labor sector,” the Speaker said in a statement. (With reports from Maricar B. Brizuela and Gil C. Cabacungan)

A BIRTHDAY greeting sent via text message, followed by goodnatured ribbing about a possible blowout, landed presidential aspirant Sen. Grace Poe a personal invitation to President Aquino’s 56th birthday celebration on Monday, Feb. 8. This was the backstory gathered by the Inquirer from several sources who squashed speculations that Poe gate-crashed the party held on the eve of the proclamation rally of candidates running for the country’s top political posts. A Palace source said Poe texted the President a birthday greeting on Feb. 8, and followed this with the usual teasing between friends: “Hindi ka ba magpapakain? (So, are you giving a treat?)” In response to Poe’s text message, Mr. Aquino invited her to his party that night, his last as the country’s chief executive. Poe herself shrugged off the buzz about her being at Mr. Aquino’s birthday bash, and said they remain good friends despite being from rival political parties. “I went to his party because we’re friends. Whenever there

are special events in the Palace, he would always invite me,” Poe told reporters in a press conference in Toledo City, Cebu province, Wednesday morning. The birthday party, held at the Presidential Security Group (PSG) compound in Malacañang, featured Japanese food and entertainment provided by the PSG band. ‘Secret candidate’ Present at the celebration were the President’s sisters, their families and relatives, as well as close friends, Cabinet secretaries, key government officials, Mr. Aquino’s anointed, Liberal Party (LP) standard-bearer Mar Roxas, and his running mate, Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo. When Poe arrived, she greeted the President and shook his hand but did not join him at his table, the source said, adding that Mr. Aquino and the senator did not really talk much at the party. Roxas did not seem to mind his rival’s presence at the party. “He just enjoyed the program,” one source said. The LP wooed Poe to be Roxas’ running mate, but she chose to stick it out with close friend and running mate, Sen. Francis Escudero. The administration

party later settled for Robredo, the widow of Mr. Aquino’s and Roxas’ good friend, the late Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo. One of the Inquirer sources dismissed talk that Poe’s presence at the President’s birthday celebration was an indication that she was Mr. Aquino’s “secret candidate” in the May elections. “He has no secret candidate. He was just (being) a gentleman who invited Senator Grace to his party because she had texted him and needled him about a birthday treat. The President then replied, ‘We’re having a party, come over.’ And so she did,” the source added. If she was the President’s secret candidate, she was not aware of it, Poe said, adding that she and Mr. Aquino respect each other and do not take their differences in opinion personally. In fact, it was the President himself who opened doors for her when he appointed her to chair the local movies’ ratings and censors board. “In our last conversation, I showed him how grateful and how inspired I was with his words about making the straight path our personal responsibility,” Poe said. ■

Courts, not President, to decide on Arroyo case, Duterte told by MARLON

RAMOS Inquirer.net

ILOILO CITY—Senatorial candidates of the ruling Daang Matuwid coalition twitted Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte for saying he would free former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo from hospital detention should he be elected as the country’s next president. “It’s for the courts, not the sitting president, to decide,” former Justice Secretary Leila de Lima told reporters before the proclamation rally of Liberal Party standard-bearer Mar Roxas here on Tuesday. “If he wins, he would be the

president and as chief executive, he [should be] the first to enforce the law and the first to respect the independence of our judiciary,” she said. De Lima, who had been at odds with Duterte for promoting extrajudicial killings of alleged criminals in Davao, argued that only the Supreme Court and the Sandiganbayan have the authority to decide on Arroyo’s fate. De Lima, also a former Commission on Human Rights chair, joined Roxas, his running mate Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and the rest of the LP-led coalition’s senatorial aspirants in wooing voters in Capiz and Iloilo provinces on the first day of the

three-month campaign period. Arroyo, 68, had been in hospital detention at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City since October 2012, after she was indicted for plunder over the purported misuse of P366 million in intelligence funds of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The high court recently ordered a temporary stop to her trial pending the resolution of her certiorari petition. In his visit to Pampanga last week, Duterte said he would work for Arroyo’s release from detention if he wins the May elections because the evidence

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OPINION

FEATURES

Campaign season

AND so it begins. Filipinos are in the throes of election fever as the campaign period for the upcoming May national elections officially began on Tuesday, Feb. 9. With 18,053 elective positions at stake, qualified voters in the Philippines and abroad have in their hands, the power and responsibility of ensuring candidates for public office are the most qualified for the respective positions. On a national scale, Filipino voters will declare who to fill the presidential, vice presidential, 12 senatorial and 80 party-list representation seats. The local elections involve voters to elect district representatives (Congress members), provincial governors, vice governors, provincial board members, city and municipal mayors, city and municipal vice mayors, and town council members. The promotion of people’s interests will be on top of political junkets once again. Issues such as criminality, high prices, unemployment, housing shortage, overpopulation, and the poor justice system are still expected to headline each candidate’s platform. Vice President Jejomar Binay launched his presidential bid at the Welfareville compound in Mandaluyong City “to be with the Filipino poor.” Leading the opposition party, United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), Binay’s camp said that the vice president chose to be with those “have been left behind and continue to struggle with poverty, hunger and unemployment. Because he wanted to share with the masses his vision of a nation where rich and poor share the benefits of economic growth.” Binay was joined by his running mate Sen. Gregorio Honasan II, and UNA’s candidates for

senators including Manny Pacquiao, former Special Action Force (SAF) director Getulio Napeñas, Parañaque councilor and actress Alma Moreno, Princess Jacel Kiram, labor lawyer Allan Montaño and broadcaster Rey Langit. Sen. Grace Poe, who promises a “gobyernong may puso (government with a heart),” led her political party to Plaza Miranda in front of the historic Quiapo Church in Manila. Still facing disqualification over citizenship and residency issues, Poe said that just like an ordinary Filipino, her life is full of drama. “With all my heart and strength, I will uphold and defend programs of a compassionate government, our aspirations for the Filipino family, our hopes for the country and our children. The next three months will be a grueling journey for candidates and voters,” Poe promised her supporters. The ruling Liberal Party and its standard-bearer Mar Roxas and running mate Rep. Leni Robredo kicked off their campaign in Roxas City, Capiz. The tandem vowed to continue Pres. Benigno Aquino III’s “daang matuwid (straight path)” policy. Aquino was also present during the campaign rally and appealed to the public on why his bets are deserving to be elected.

Editorial

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Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte brought his team to Tondo, Manila. The no-nonsense presidential aspirant promised his kababayans that he will curb corruption and the proliferation of illegal drugs, and vowed to prioritize education and agriculture. Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Sen. Bongbong Marcos went north, to the latter’s hometown in Batac City, Ilocos Norte. Santiago vowed to go after people who were involved in the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel

scam, while Marcos insisted on unity among Filipinos. The next three months will be a grueling journey for both candidates and voters. It will test political aspirants on how they can engage the public to support their causes and grant them their previous votes. On the other hand, it will be the voters’ undertaking to identify all social, political, economic and environmental issues that are hounding the country and choose wisely who will best offer the solution for them. (AJPress)

New national poll: Trump leads, Clinton and Sanders in a virtual tie AFTER the Iowa Caucuses and before the New Hampshire The Fil-Am primary, a new national poll reveals the sentiment of the Amer- Perspective ican people on where they want this nation to be stirred moving forward through the presidential elections. On the Democratic front, GEL SANTOS-RELOS Frontrunner Hillary Clinton has reportedly planned on shaking her campaign to stop the momentum that has been favoring Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders steadily and increasingly in the past year. From leading Sanders by 50 percent just a year ago, Clinton’s lead has now shrunk to a virtual tie as revealed by two major national polls. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows Clinton leading Sanders 48-45 percent, while a Quinnipiac University poll reveals Clinton leading 44-42 percent, both gaps within the margin of error. After winning Iowa by just 0.3 percent, Clinton is expected to lose in New Hampshire, if polls are any indication. In the final CNN/WMUR tracking poll, CNN reports that it remains Bernie Sanders’ primary to lose, with the Vermont senator holding a 26-point lead over Hillary Clinton, with 61

percent for Sanders versus 35 percent for Clinton. While I monitor the exit polls in New Hampshire as of the press time, CNN has projected Sanders as the winner of the primary election in the state and Clinton has reportedly conceded. With potentially record-breaking turnout, enthusiastic voters are eager to make their voices heard in this election. Clinton won in New Hampshire when she ran against Obama in 2008. What should Clinton do to stop Sanders’ momentum? On the Republican side, the latest Quinnipiac University National poll reveals Donald Trump still leads the GOP presidential pack among Republican voters nationwide, with 31 percent. He is followed by Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas with 22 percent and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida with 19 percent. Dr. Ben Carson has 6 percent, with 9 percent undecided and no other candidate above 3 percent. Heading to New Hampshire, Donald Trump continues to lead the Republican race on the eve of the vote with 31 percent, according to the final CNN/WMUR tracking poll. CNN reports that trailing behind Trump, Florida

Sen. Marco Rubio earned 17 percent support -- within the margin of sampling error of Texas Sen. Ted Cruz at 14 percent, but significantly ahead of the fourth and fifth place candidates in the poll, Ohio Gov. John Kasich (10 percent) and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush (7 percent). Carly Fiorina stands at 5 percent, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie at 4 percent and retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson at 3 percent. Exit polls revealed that ?`ccXip :cèkfe Xe[ ;feXc[ Kildg Democratic voters are looking for the candidate Donald Trump continue to lord over the other GOP who is honest and who cares about them, more candidates moving forward? than electability and experience. ABANGAN! Meanwhile, Republican voters want a candidate *** who is not part of the establishment, as more than >\c JXekfj I\cfj `j k_\ XeZ_fi f] K=:Ëj È9Xc`kXe^ 8d\i`ZX%É M`\nj Xe[ half of them say feel betrayed by and are dissatis- fgè`fej \ogi\jj\[ Yp k_\ Xlk_fi è k_`j Zfclde Xi\ Xi\ jfc\cp k_fj\ f] fied with how the Republican party has done its k_\ Xlk_fi Xe[ efk f] 8j`Xe AflieXc Xe[ 89J$:9E$K=:% =fi Zfdd\ekj# job over the years. ^f kf nnn%K_\=`c$8dG\ijg\Zk`m\%Zfd# _kkgj1&&nnn%]XZ\Yffb%Zfd&>\c% Will it be 2008 again for Hillary Clinton? Will JXekfj%I\cfj

What is the true picture of poverty in our country? ACCORDING to the National Anti-Poverty Street Commission (NAPC) the incidence of pover- Talk ty in the Philippines in 2014 was 25.8 percent. This includes individuals earning less than GREG B. MACABENTA P1,755 a month or a family of five earning less than P8,778 a month. This begs the question: If only onefourth of our population lives in poverty, does that mean that three-fourths do not? Noted economist and former Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno had something to say about that in a piece he wrote in Business World in March last year, referring to the poverty threshold set for 2012: “The real poverty picture may be worse than what the official statistics suggest. In 2012, the poverty threshold was P18,935 per year, P1,578 per month, or P52.60 per day. That’s the height of absurdity! I challenge public officials to survive on P52.60 per day for even a week.” For those residing in the US, it is not easy to appreciate the relative value of what people earn in the Philippines. Conceivably, because of the much lower cost of living here, what may appear to be meager minimum wage earnings locally can actually buy more goods and services than the minimum wage in the US. It was in this context that I took note of Diokno’s commentary and decided to probe this issue further. What, in fact,

is the true picture of poverty in our country? Our home in Parañaque happens to be right across the creek from a squatters’ area (pardon me, I mean, an informal settlement) called Creek Drive. Thus, I have easy access to the pulse of non-rich folks. I hesitate to refer to them as “poor” because of the government’s definition of poverty. We have known many of the squatters (oops, informal settlers) in Creek Drive for years. Before they called the place by that name, they used our home address for their correspondence. Letters from the province were delivered through us by the post office. My former ad agency driver, Jun, built a shanty and raised a family there. He now makes a living driving his own tricycle. Jun earns from P800 to P1,000 a day from plying his tricycle route. That’s a monthly income of over P20,000, for himself alone, not counting that of his wife who is a grade school teacher and that of his son, also a tricycle driver. In other words, they are well above the poverty threshold, as defined by the economic managers. But recently, Jun developed a lung infection and couldn’t drive his tricycle. Not covered by Philhealth and without any savings to afford medicine, his health deteriorated. Fortunately, being close to the family, we gave him some financial assistance and he managed to

get medical treatment. He is recovering now and could be well on the way to once again being “non-poor” (a term used by government numbers crunchers). But even if Jun and his family manage to stay above the official poverty line, he is painfully aware that they are, in truth, poor and are vulnerable to the ravages of cruel circumstances -- no matter what the economic managers say. Randy, a relative, earns P17,800 a month as a truck driver for a tire company and his wife Kaye makes P11,500 a month as a department store sales girl. They live rent-free in quarters above our garage (the living area is as large as an apartment and more spacious than a condominium studio). Because they don’t have to pay rent and they only have one child, who is in the grades, they are technically almost middle income, based on the classification of the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB). They certainly are well above the government-defined poverty threshold. But don’t tell that to the couple. After the usual deductions from their pay slips and considering the cost of transportation, food and utilities, they have very little left on payday and hardly anything set aside for emergencies. And when their daughter graduates from high school, it will be a struggle sending her to college. Nene does our laundry once a week and also services several homes in the subdivision. For her labors, she earns over P10,000 a month. Based on the government’s definition of poverty,

Nene is not poor. But when her mother fell ill and needed oxygen, she couldn’t afford the cost of one that was mechanized and had to make do with manual pumping. That was not good enough to save her mother’s life. Whatever the economic managers might say, Nene rues the fact that her mother would still be alive, if they were not, in fact, poor. Grace, a niece whom my wife and I are sending to nursing school, gave me interesting findings derived by her class from households in a slum area in San Dionisio, a barangay in Parañaque. The survey was part of their course requirement. Out of 54 families interviewed, 24 earn below the official poverty threshold. The rest technically qualify as non-poor because they earn above P11,000 a month. But try telling them that they are not poor and they will think you are being sarcastic. Frankly, the government statistics are an exercise in denial and delusion. But the people are not being fooled. They know that they are poor. They can see it in the faces of their children whom they cannot afford to send to school. They can feel it in their empty stomachs and in the ailments that they must suffer because they cannot afford health care. Those living in Mindanao and the rural areas know that they are even more impoverished than the government will acknowledge. And they are keenly aware that all the talk about a booming economy does not include them and is mainly benefiting the wealthy few.

With the presidential elections only a few months away, the candidates have begun to woo the electorate in earnest. And, as suitors always do, they are all promising to make life more blissful for the Filipino masses and the future brighter for their children. Three of the candidates have enunciated their main appeals to the voters in relatively clear terms, with the bottom line being a happier, more contented citizenry and a more progressive Philippines. Liberal Party standard bearer Mar Roxas is waving the flag of economic gains through clean governance, expressed as “Tuwid na Daan” (or Straight Path). Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is vowing to create a progressive Philippines by killing criminals and stamping out corruption in government. Vice President Jejomar Binay is focusing on poverty and is promising to solve it by creating jobs and income opportunities for everyone, not just the rich. The two other candidates, Senators Grace Poe and Miriam Defensor-Santiago, are vaguely promising all or most of the above without really underscoring their primary pitch. Which promise will resonate most effectively with the masses? The residents of Creek Drive and San Dionisio have this to say: “Lahat ng pangako nila ay maganda. Pero alin ba ang magiging laman ng sikmura?” Translation: “All the promises are good. But which one can fill our stomach?” (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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PH LTE speed among world’s slowest, says study by JANVIC

MATEO Philstar.com

MANILA—A study conducted among mobile networks in the world showed that those operating in the Philippines are among the worst performing in terms of 4G LTE (fourth generation long-term evolution) network. Latest data from OpenSignal, which crowd sourced data from millions of smartphone users across the world, showed that the Philippines has the seventh slowest LTE network among 68 countries. The report said the Philippines has an average download speed of six megabits per second (Mbps) in the last quarter of 2015. It was ahead of Bolivia, Puerto Rico, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica and Iran. The Philippines also ranked fourth in terms of those that have the least time coverage, with an average of 43 percent. Only Ecuador, Costa Rica and Sri Lanka had less coverage among countries

covered by the study. “Time coverage measures the proportion of time users spend connected to a particular network, whether they’re indoors or out, on the move or standing still. We represent time coverage as a percentage, so if an LTE network has 80 percent time coverage, that means its customers, on average, can get an LTE signal 80 percent of the time,” the report said. The data was based on information culled from users of Globe and Smart, the two telecommunications companies that offer LTE in the country. According to OpenSignal, Smart had a download speed of seven Mbps and a time coverage of 38 percent. Globe, meanwhile, had a download speed of four Mbps and a time coverage of 48 percent. Singapore topped the list in terms of download speed with an average of 37 Mbps among three networks, while South Korea had the highest time coverage, with an average of 97 percent also among three networks offering LTE services. ■

PH expecting Hague ruling vs China by May by PATRICIA LOURDES Philstar.com

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VIRAY

MANILA—Outgoing Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario on Wednesday, Feb. 10 said that the Philippines is expecting the final ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on its case against China by May. In January 2014, the Philippines filed an arbitration case against China before the international tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands to invalidate the latter’s excessive claims in the South China Sea. “We hope that the decision will come out before May. We don’t know what the chances of that might be but it looks doable from where we sit,” Del Rosario told members of the press Del Rosario also expressed his concerns over China’s aggressive activities in the disputed sea that undermine the territorial claims of its smaller neighbors. Last month, Manila protested China’s test flights on Kagitingan Reef in the West Philippine Sea. Foreign Affairs spokesper-

Trillanes posts bail for libel… G8>< 8, t

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son Charles Jose said that China’s action was provocative and restricts freedom of navigation and overflight in the disputed sea. China, however, insisted that the flights conducted by its air-

Courts, not President…

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against her was weak. But former Sen. Panfilo Lacson, a longtime tormentor of Arroyo and her family, reminded the Davao City mayor that the custody of an individual undergoing trial should be with the judiciary and not the executive department. Lacson, who is trying to regain

his Senate post, said a detained person’s freedom “should not be made a campaign promise or a commitment of a presidential candidate.” “We need to respect the jurisdiction of the court trying the case of anyone, be it Arroyo or my former fellow senators who are detained now,” he said. “It should be the court which

craft fall completely with its sovereignty. Beijing accused the Manila of having ulterior motives with its claims. Del Rosario will step down as Foreign Affairs Secretary on March 7 due to health concerns. ■ should decide if they could be temporarily or permanently freed,” he added. Reelectionist Senate President Franklin Drilon said Duterte being a former state prosecutor himself certainly knew that only the court may grant Arroyo’s liberty. “But because Duterte said that during his campaign in Pampanga, it’s expected,” said Drilon, who is also a former justice secretary. ■

NEW YORK

Last week, the Office of the Ombudsman said it has found probable cause to proceed with the filing of the criminal charges against Binay and his co-respondents. Each graft charge carries a bail of P30,000 per count, falsification of public documents P20,000 per count and malversation of public funds P40,000 per count. The anti-graft agency has yet to elevate the cases to the Sandiganbayan but it is expected to do so within the week. Once filed, the cases would be raffled off to a division of the anti-graft court which, after judicial determination of probable cause, may issue arrest warrants and hold departure orders against the accused. Respondents in Sandiganbayan cases sometimes opt to post bail ahead of the issuance of arrest orders against them. Construction of the P2.2-billion Makati City Hall Building II was completed in five phases plus one design phase that spanned the terms of Vice President Binay and his son as mayors. Investigation allegedly revealed that no public bidding was conducted prior to engaging the services of a project designer as the procurement process was allegedly manipulated to ensure the award of contract. During the building phase, city

“It’s an obligation as a former soldier,” he said. “We saw an anomaly and we exposed Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at the expense of our freedom and physical safety. But the thing was, we did our obligation as soldiers. We stood by it. “At the end of the day, are we right with our exposés. Okay, even if you will not vote for me, my question is, are we right on our exposés against Vice President Binay or are we just making up all these accusations?” Trillanes, who is seeking the vice presidency as an independent candidate, told reporters that he would be holding his proclamation rally today in General Santos City where he enjoys a strong following. Binay to also post bail Meanwhile, former Makati mayor Binay Jr. and his 22 co-respondents in the criminal cases to be filed against them in connection with the allegedly overpriced Makati City Hall Building II would have to post a total bail bond that could reach P10.120 million to avoid detention once the complaints reach the Sandiganbayan. Each of them will need at least P440,000 for the four graft, six falsification of public documents and five malversation of public funds cases they would face.

TAIPEI

The Best Link to Cross the

officials colluded with Hilmarc’s Construction Co. to manipulate the outcome of five “public biddings” for the purpose of ensuring that the contractor would be awarded the contracts, according to investigators of the Office of the Ombudsman. Ombudsman Conchita CarpioMorales said the criminal cases against Vice President Binay will have to wait until after his term expires since he has immunity from suit, being an impeachable official. Trillanes favors EDCA Trillanes told dzBB the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the US will afford the Filipino soldier psychological comfort of having a security blanket in the face of growing tension in the West Philippine Sea. “We will be having a security blanket or psychological comfort with the presence of the US forces in light of the West Philippine Sea issue,” he said. Under EDCA, US troops and their equipment are allowed to position equipment inside key Philippine military camps in Mindanao, the Visayas and Luzon. Trillanes said the Philippines has not acquired new military equipment for the last 12 years. It is only under the term of President Aquino that military equipment were acquired, he added. ■

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VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY 2016 SPECIAL FEATURE

*Images used on the cover are stock photos only and do not represent actual people who are involved in online dating or relationships that resulted from online dating. Photos cannot be used in any other

Connections: Couples who have found love online

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An Asian Journal Magazine

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Press enter for love: Romance & relationships in the digital age by MALOU LIWANAG-BLEDSOE/AJPress

Before the Internet became a household name, dating and courtship went through normal stages. That is, you meet people in person, go on a date and if it worked out, then you go on to a more committed relationship. Today, some still manage to do it the conventional way. However, technology has found a way to bring romance and relationships to many — through their computers. Some still have reservations about the possibility of meeting “the one” through this manner. Of course, this is understandable due to the fact that you shouldn’t believe anything—or anyone—you read and meet online. Love online anyone? Since the explosion of the Internet in the 1990s, it was used immediately for online dating. Even before the Web itself was created, newsgroups, bulletin boards, and forums were somewhat unintentionally used to post personal ads, just like the ones in newspapers. People who were online met with others with similar interests and would go on to meet in person. Chat rooms were offered by Internet service providers and heavily advertised these features. Although technically limited, it spurred a dating culture to many who were just starting to get acquainted with the technology. However, the first major dating website was the combination of Kiss.com and Match.com, both registered by the same person in 1994 and 1995 respectively. Other dating sites also existed, but

focused on international dating slanting towards the “mail order bride” services. By 1996, Yahoo listed 16 dating websites, including the then popular Friendfinder.com and OneandOnly.com. The movie “You’ve Got Mail” in 1998 starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan brought Internet dating some cultural boost. Though their characters didn’t really meet on a dating site and the movie wasn’t about online dating, the story showed how the Web can bring people together. With its popularity and growing public acceptance, Match.com and OneandOnly. com were bought by Ticketmaster Online-Citysearch for an

undisclosed sum. Major Internet players like—Yahoo and AOL— upped their game and started to develop their personal/dating section. Others followed suit during the dot-com boom in the late 90s and early 2000s. The dot-com crash in 2001/2002 brought a lot of the frenzy and sites to an end. However, it also changed the online world. For dating sites, the change came more from the launch of social networking sites like Friendster and MySpace in 2002, and Facebook in 2004. The mentality was that the idea of online social networking carried a much smaller stigma than online dating sites, as it was used by those who are not seeking a partner at all. Still, with the social networking

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wave, online dating has continued to thrive. According to Online Dating Magazine, nearly 20 million people visit at least one online dating site every month, and 120,000 marriages every year take place due to that. Finally, the public’s perception of online dating is changing and the stigma of finding a partner online has been slowly lifting due to the popularity of social networking. Although the majority of marriages still meet through more traditional means, nearly everyone on the Web has met someone or made a friend online. And in this fast-paced world, people find it a lot harder to make time to meet and date people in person. Why would they, when all one has to do is log on and click?

In time for Valentine’s Day, the Asian Journal asked a few couples how they found their significant others online & how they’ve made the relationships last.

First impressions aren’t always important Pat Bolognese and Arleah Baingan-Bolognese Met through: Filipinofinder.com in 2005 Courtship: Chatted on and off for a year, then regularly for another year. Dated for seven years before getting married. Married: April 14, 2014 in Orchard Park, NY Son: Zavi was born on April 3, 2015 in Buffalo, NY First time meeting: P: “We first met in 2007. Not much changed the first time we met but the second time was when things really exploded.” A: “He told me he liked me right away. I thought he was a nice guy.” Challenges in their relationship: A: “There were many challenges to this kind of set-up (long distance relationship). Physical togetherness is very different from GXk Xe[ 8ic\X_ 9fcf^e\j\ n`k_ k_\`i jfe# QXm` just seeing each other on-cam. Second, there partner to report his/her every is an issue of trust. You really move, this may not be for you. don’t know what your partner is There are so many people online doing. He/she can say one thing who are just out there to have and do another. It is difficult to verify a person’s claims when you fun and take advantage of those who are gullible enough. Also, it are so far from each other and is easier to lie when you’re online. your means of communication It’s important to get to know each is mostly online. I missed going out on ‘real’ dates. I get paranoid other, take your time and check at time when he wasn’t online on their background. It’s a personal decision. our usual chat schedule.” “Finding, keeping and staying P: “Some of the challenges happy with ‘the one’ is probably are that things can be life’s biggest adventure. If there’s misunderstood...There are also opportunity to meet and get to times that outside things like know new people, try it and take traffic or weather, that affect advantage. Give it time. Do your timing (like if you were supposed research. Trust your instinct. Ask a to chat at a certain time but the lot of questions.” MRT was late or traffic was heavy P: “ You can only date online if and one was late. I wouldn’t know anything about a MRT breakdown you are patient and understanding and Arleah would not know about and accepting that things don’t a traffic problem here so one may always happen as they are planned. It is difficult but not impossible. I think something is wrong). Also, would tell someone that wants to not being able to actually go on date online that they should talk to dates is very difficult.” someone that has when they have Advice for those who want issues. I would never tell someone to try online dating: not to. I would tell them to just A: “Online dating is not take it slow and to be careful. There for everyone. I might suggest are many men that just want to it to my friends who are openminded, those who are not afraid have fun and many women that just want money. If you take it slow, to take chances, because it is a you will be able to tell if the other very challenging set-up. If you person is serious.” are the clingy or jealous type, like you want your boyfriend/ Continued on Page3

‘Visit the Philippines Again 2016’ DOT encourages tourists to revisit PH :fejlc >\e\iXc$`e 8Zk`fe $:fe>\e DXi`f ;\ C\fe# Ai%# f]]\ij mXi`flj kiXm\c gXZbX^\j kf k_\ G_`c`gg`e\j kf m`j`kfij n_f m`j`k\[ EP K`d\j KiXm\c J_fn%

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by MOMAR VISAYA Aj Press

THE New York Times Travel Show, the largest and longestrunning trade and consumer travel show in North America, ended a couple of weeks ago on a high note. The attendance to the show this year was the highest in nine years and the second most attended New York Times Travel Show ever. Almost 30,000 people trooped to the Jacob Javits Convention Center over the weekend when the show was on, despite near-freezing weather. There were more than 500 exhibitors, including the Philippine Department of Tourism, an annual supporter of the travel show. This year, the tourism department showcased the Tourism Promotion Board’s newest campaign, ‘Visit Philippines Again 2016’, an offshoot of the successful ‘Visit Philippines Year 2015’ project. Consul General Mario De Leon, Jr., accompanied by Ms. Eleanor De Leon, Philippine Department of Tourism New York (PDOT-NY) Representative Michelle Cristalle Dy-Vera, as well as Consul Felipe Carino III, welcomed prospective travelers visiting the Philippine booth to learn about the latest tourism packages. Also in attendance were Ms. Zeny Pallugna and Mr. Joey Chanco of PDOTNY and Ms. Daniella Usmanova representing Philippine Airlines. A three-day event for travel enthusiasts, the New York Times

Travel Show boasts of exhibitors representing over 150 countries. The event showcases products like exploring domestic and international hot spots, familiar favorites and under-the radar crowd-free escapades. The travel show features, among others, the Travel Industry Conference, consumer seminars, and an interactive exhibition including more than 500 exhibitors from Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, Latin America, Mexico and the United States. In addition to discounts and special offers, the show provides educational seminars and live entertainment for families, individuals, couples and seniors. Consul General Mario De Leon lauded the efforts of the Philippine Department of Tourism and PDOT-New York which are actively promoting attractive travel packages to mainstream travelers as well as FilipinoAmericans in cooperation with US travel operators and international air carriers. There were several outstanding travel packages to off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Philippines that are widely popular among American retirees and younger generation FilipinoAmericans that can be marketed extensively, he added. PDOT-New York’s Ms. Michelle Dy-Vera is upbeat for the tourism and travel industry

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in the Philippines this year. She said that her office is aiming to expand partnerships and develop cooperation with US travel operators and agents, mainstream organizations, including air carriers, to include travel packages to the Philippines in their promotional efforts and publications as well as encourage a side-trip to the Philippines for American travelers to Asia. She found this year’s attendees to the Travel Show with increased interest on the Philippine tourism destinations. In order to further promote the campaign in New York, TPB through the DOT have placed ads on the Gray Line double-decker buses that bring NYC tourists to the various landmarks and destinations in the city. 2016 promises to be another good year for Philippine tourism as global publications continue to recommend the county as a mustvisit destination. National Geographic picked the Philippines as one of their top destinations for 2016, along with Burgundy, France; Glasgow, Scotland and Hokkaido, Japan. Cebu and Boracay made it to this year’s ‘Best Islands’ survey of Conde Nast’s Traveler magazine readers who unanimously voted for Palawan to be the best island in the world for the second year in a row. “Visit the Philippines Again 2016” The campaign was launched

by the Department of Tourism Secretary, Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. last November at the World Travel Market 2015 held in The Gherkin in London. The campaign aims to attract more visitors from all over the world to the Philippines and encourage them to return this year for more fun and feel-good adventures. As a kick-off to the campaign, the Philippines hosted the ASEAN Tourism Forum on 18 – 25 January 2016 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. Similar to Visit Philippines Year 2015, other exciting activities have been lined up to sustain the interest of the traveling public. Among the major events being showcased are Madrid Fusion Manila 2016 in April for foodies, the MTV Music Evolution 2016 in May for music-lovers and the 2016 Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championship in August for sports and outdoor enthusiasts. Major musical acts such as Madonna and Andrea Bocelli have scheduled concerts in Manila as well. As of October 2015, the Department of Tourism has recorded a total of 4,226,489 international tourist arrivals to the Philippines from January to October 2015. The figure is an 11.13% increase from the same period of the previous year.

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Immigration Corner

The March 2016 priority dates

An Asian Journal

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K_\ Gi`fi`kp [Xk\j ]fi k_\ G_`c`gg`e\j Xi\ Xj ]fccfnj1 ATTY. MICHAEL GURFINKEL, ESQ EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;place in lineâ&#x20AC;? for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was â&#x20AC;&#x153;current,â&#x20AC;? but later retrogressed (or â&#x20AC;&#x153;moved backwardsâ&#x20AC;? and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the US), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning last October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Application Filing Date.â&#x20AC;? If a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for a green card. ***

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Inspiring Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs The Kite Runner PROF. ENRIQUE M. SORIANO MANY attempts have been made to profile the Asian Entrepreneur. But I found an easier way to spot them â&#x20AC;&#x201D; just check their family name. The fact is enterprises and entrepreneurship in the Asian context is usually tied up with kin or family. In the Philippines, the term â&#x20AC;&#x153;Asian entrepreneurâ&#x20AC;? has not been around for long but trading is nothing new.

The Chinese and Malay traders have made their presence known throughout Philippine history even before the Spanish came. Their trading continued even in the presence of the Spanish conquistadores. The Spanish officialsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; aristocratic lifestyle was completely dependent on the Galleon Trade for hundreds of years. This Galleon Trade brought Chinese silk and porcelains to Europe via Mexico and European luxury goods and Mexican silver via Manila.1 Getting to know the FilipinoChinese entrepreneurs The Chinese in the Philippines make up only 20 percent of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total population but they are a

Magazine

force to be reckoned with. Most Chinese in the Philippines are business owners and their lives center around the family business that are usually small and medium enterprises. These family businesses play a significant role in the Philippine economy. A handful of these entrepreneurs run large companies and are respected as some of the most prominent business tycoons in the country. Chinese Filipinos attribute their success in business to frugality and hard work, Confucian values and their traditional Chinese customs and traditions. They are very business-minded and entrepreneurship Continued on Page 6

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Connections: Couples who have found love online From Page 2

No Expectations

Chris Bledsoe and Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe Met through: Yahoo Messenger in November 2007 Courtship: No actual courtship. Friends on and off for a year. Married: February 5, 2010 in Redwood City, CA First impression about each talked about the Philippines and Spongebob Squarepants and got other: Malou: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a little weird. He sandwiches at a local deli. There just popped out of my Yahoo Mes- were no expectations of romance or senger and said hi. He seemed nice putting on your best clothesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it was so I chatted with him. We were on- just a simple but really nice day. Challenges in their relationship: line friends off and on for a year. I C: â&#x20AC;&#x153;After the first date we knew we wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looking to date anyone. But my mom thought he looked like a wanted to see each other again. I lived on the other side of the Bay that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gangsterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (laughs).â&#x20AC;? Chris: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how I found time and had crazy work hours. Also, her online (or I forgot). She seemed both of us were going through some nice, she just moved to the US and personal matters that needed to be she was still adjusting to the culture dealt with.â&#x20AC;? M: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We tried to see as much as and missed her friends. I told her to we can and just as he said, there give it some time.â&#x20AC;? were personal matters in our reFirst time meeting: M: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The first meeting we planned spective lives that we needed didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t push through so we set up an- to fix. Another thing was I was other one. We refused to call it a date avoiding the stigma of having met and saw it as a friendly meeting. Just someone online and how other as he promised, he hugged me. He people viewed it (I have a friend who does online dating, and tries was very sweet.â&#x20AC;? C: â&#x20AC;&#x153;She was cute and small. I to ask money from men). Also, thought she was really funny. I I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sure if I wanted to stay picked her up at her apartment. We in the US after my work visa exwent to the beach, walked around, pires.â&#x20AC;?

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Advice for those who want to try online dating: C: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Again, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect romance right awayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;or at all. Start with being friends, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you know the person on the other side better. It is not for everyone.â&#x20AC;? M: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never really dated online, and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if I would consider ours as one. I keep calling our story as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;no expectations,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; because thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how it was, really. Also, be cautious and careful. Chances are, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll come across some sleazy person who only wants either money or naked pictures of you. Stalkerish it may seem, try to do some research on the personâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what Facebook and Google are for.â&#x20AC;? Continued on Page 7

An Asian Journal

Magazine

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To places less traveled by MARY MAY PORTEZ AJPress

CAN a region long overcast with unfavorable razzmatazz unveil its true wonder? Behind the prejudice and infamy, Mary May Portez follows the road less traveled to discover Northern Mindanao’s underrated beauty. From Camiguin’s rustic je ne sais quoi to Misamis Oriental’s burgeoning craft industry, traveling has never been this inspiring. Capping it off with an adrenaline rush from Cagayan de Oro’s sundry of adventure feats, Mindanao is a revelation waiting to be unraveled. CAMIGUIN The first thing you need to know is that Camiguin is an island of volcanic origin located 120 kilometers southeast of Cebu and 90 kilometers north of Cagayan de Oro. This pear shaped, volcanic island houses more volcanoes than its actual towns, with Mount Hibok Hibok as the only active volcano that is expected to erupt every fifty to sixty years—its last recorded activity was back in 1950. During lent, devotees would walk around the island and trek up to the old volcanoes in observance of the Panaad festival which is similar to a traditional Walk of Penitence done by Catholics reliving the way of the cross. Second, that as Northern Mindanao’s leading tourist destination, Camiguin is a sell short of natural beauty; from springs to sandbars, everything about this island is nothing short of inspiring. Where the water never runs dry One interesting fact about Camiguin is that the water resource comes from several natural springs scattered across the island. Faucets are never closed to keep the pipes

from bursting with overflowing water. You will be surprised that your tap water tastes almost like San Pellegrino, minus the carbonated fizz. Exploring the island, you will find a number of hot and cold springs like the Sto. Niño Cold Spring Resort in Catarman that is popular among the locals for its perennial crystal clear, cool waters; the Ardent Hot Springs Resort in Mambajao that also offers a quaint lodging options for anyone who wishes to stay overnight; and the Bura Soda Water Swimming Pool in Catarman that is best known for its medicinal purposes. The iconic sunken cemetery in Catarman is a historical site as well as a tourist attraction. Of heritage sites and historical ruins Flooded down below sea level during the volcanic birth of Mt. Vulcan in 1871-1875, the gravesite was commemorated by a huge cross erected in 1982. Diving beneath the massive, white cross, you will marvel over the eerie sight of coral laden epitaphs and tombstones. Its neighbor church, the Old Catarman Church, or the Gui-Ob church, still stands with only a few of its surviving ruins and bell tower saved from the mentioned volcanic eruption. Masses are still celebrated in the open passage of the old church. Sandbars, white sand, and lofty falls You will be greeted by a number of friendly vendors selling kiping when you reach Katibawasan Falls. This addictive treat is a local delicacy made from grounded sweet potato rolled into thin disks and fried over regular cooking oil. Drizzled with

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caramelized coconut milk, this snack is popular among locals and tourists to munch on as you trek along your destination. Light, sweet, and cheap, kipings are as distinctive as lanzoses are to Camiguin. Katibawasan and Tuasan falls are Camiguin’s most celebrated natural wonders. Cascading a few hundred feet from the ground, these falls are not your typical commercialized tourists spots. Natural and extremely breathtaking, both these falls offer a simpler, yet inspiring way to enjoy nature. The Mantigue Island lies near the port area of Camiguin. With a fine, white sand and clear blue waters, this island is one of the best-kept gems of the province. Still subtly popular, there are only a few private and local lodgings in the island. Unlike the White Island sandbar that is smaller in scale, Mantigue offers a more convenient stay for an overnight trip. CAGAYAN DE ORO With literal reference to gold, the early inhabitants of this city were depicted to have gold gossamer in their hair. Cagayan de Oro, or Karay han de Oro that roughly translates to rake gold, is a city believed to have been copious with natural resources, especially gold. Flourishing to be one of Northern Mindanao’s tourist spots, Cagayan de Oro continues to attract tourists as well as local

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and foreign investors. From the world-famous ziplines and river rafting sites, this city is not just a hub for adventure tourism, but a heaven for a culture and naturerich wanderlust. St. Augustine Cathedral Built in 1845 by the Augustinian friars, this cathedral is the main Catholic church and seat of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. Its centuries old stained glass windows were donated by the American Catholics from New York, USA. Nature trail at Mapawa Nature Adventure Park Better than any imprint, the nature park in Mapawa offers a tree planting experience for a good cause. Help plant mahogany trees or explore the ecological park. The Ranch House offers an affordable bed and breakfast package for a group of five, or more. Other activities include river trek, horseback riding, bonfire, camping, and canyoneering. Museum Walk at Museo de Oro: Revisit the past at the Museo de Oro museum. Showcasing the ethnohistory of Northern Mindanao from Prehistoric time, exhibits include fossilized remains of the stegodon found in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental; items used during the Spanish period; ornaments and pieces of jewelry used by the tribes that inhabited the area; weaponry; and a detailed painting depicting the Myths of Creation of selected ethnic communities pertaining to the creation of the universe. MISAMIS ORIENTAL From the word misa which is

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a Spanish word for mass, Misamis was originally part of Cebu. The earliest settlers in this area were believed to be Negritos and were later joined by the Malay people with various blends of Mongolian characteristics. In 1929, it was divided into two provinces, Misamis Oriental and Misamis Occidental. Now known as the Gem of Mindanao, it is the region’s foremost center or trade and development. Cebu With a swath of historical landmarks and ubiquitous places for food grubs, Cebu has long ushered its way into the hearts of foreign tourists and locals, alike. Popular for its pristine beaches and a buzzing business district, it’s not quite surprising to find new set of adventures in this queen city. From the flower capital Balamban to Cebu’s very own shoe (and chicharon) capital Carcar, its not just about lechon anymore. Read on. Whale shark (butanding)watching in Tanawan, Oslob Despite having to endure the blazing sun without sunblock (the use of sunscreen creams and sprays are strictly prohibited to protect the whale sharks from digesting potentially harmful chemicals), the whale shark encounter will leave you breathless and agape with wonder. We recommend to skip the boat ride and dive right into the waters to swim with the butandings for a more unforgettable experience. Simala Clinging on the upper Lindogon area in barangay Simala in the town of Sibonga, this grand,

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baroque style church was built by the congregation of Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration in 1998. The very image of the Virgin Mary brought from Pampanga was believed to have shown miracles during an epidemic that have killed many in the said community. Other claims are of the image’s shedding tears of blood, while the sundry of petition letters displayed along the halls are confirmation of the church’s promise to grant miracles to the faithful. Historical walk along Argao Comparable with Vigan’s Calle Crisologo, the town of Argao is a charming window to Cebu’s rich history. Known to have one of the most well preserved cabacera (town center) in the country with traces of the Spanish and early American influences on the majority of its coral stone structures, Argao is a quaint sanctuary of culture, food, and craftsmanship. The 250-year old rococobaroque church of St. Michael the Archangel. Completed in 1788, the interior paintings depicting different scenes from the bible were painted by the renowned Visayan artists Canuto Avila and Raymundo Francia in the early 20th century. Diving and Snorkeling in Nalusuan and Hilutungan Yes, among other remarkable diving spots in Cebu, these two are among the burgeoning diving spots because of its Marine Reserve and its accessibility to nearby resorts like the Bluewater Resort in Sumilon Island. (This article was first published in the December 2015 issue of Balikbayan Magazine)

Search for Top Model of the World PH 2016 is on

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Tips on finding love on the Internet

BY MONET

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THE search is on for the next Top Model of the World (TMW) Philippines. Top Model of the World is the largest and most prestigious international model and pageant competition for vibrant young women. It combines fashion, modeling and pageantry as its main components. This 2016, the search is open to qualified candidates from Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, the Philippines and the United States. The event is expected to draw attention and participation from Filipino communities across the globe, particularly from Southern California, Northern California, the US East Coast and US Midwest, the aforementioned countries, Italy and New Zealand. In the US, pageant and fashion veterans Trini Foliente and Cora Soriano of Pageantry Global, Inc. are behind the screening of potential candidates. Foliente, who has been a pageant promoter since the 1980s, said she has witnessed pageants help boost the self-confidence of young women. It’s also a phenomenon Soriano has seen, which is why she said she supports and is fond of pageantry. “The transformation of the personality is what we need for them to succeed because if you are very confident ... you can go anywhere,” Soriano said. As a young girl, Soriano shared she was often told she was beautiful. Frequently hearing that helped her build self-confidence, and it’s something she makes an effort to tell young girls, regardless of their physical appearance. “The compliments help. And that is related to the pageantry because if [they] feel like [they’re] beautiful ... it will help them tremendously in their lives,” Soriano said. Some former pageant candidates Foliente has helped throughout her years in the industry have gone on to secure careers as actresses in Hollywood, as well as various positions in the medical field. She

credits successes like these to the women’s involvement in pageantry, which she said boosts their selfesteem. Coinciding with the search for the next Top Model of the World (TMW) Philippines is the launching of the 2016 Top Model of the World (TMW) Philippines in the greater Melbourne area to be lead by its partner and cooperator, “Face Australia Promotion & Management.” Face Australia is a leading pageant operator in Australasia and the Oceania. The much-awaited national pageant will be a pioneering launch, as most pageant and model searches in the Philippines are done in Metro Manila. It will be the ‘first’ of such a renowned national event to be entirely launched outside the Philippine. The grand coronation of the Top Model of the World (TMW) Philippines will be held on July 9 in Australia. The winner of the competition will represent the Philippines in the forthcoming Top Model of the World 2016 pageant. Requirements for young women to join the TMW pageant is as follows: - Minimum height 5’7” - Must have Filipino lineage - Must be between the ages of 18 and 25 - Must be bubbly with a pleasing personality - Must be single, have never been married and have no children For more information, please contact: USA: Pageantry Global, Inc. Trini Foliente(818)455-2132 Cora Soriano (213)999-1993 tmwusacanada@gmail.com Australia: faceaustralia@gmail.com Canada: ipenevents@gmail.com Philippines: tmwasia@gmail.com 8[m\ik`j`e^ Jlggc\d\ek

I OFTEN hear (and use) the idiomatic phrase, “Wear your heart on your sleeve.” It is often thrown at someone who is bent on concealing his or her true feelings. And since we live in a world filled with mysteries and false pretenses, many can relate to the phrase. The phrases’ pervasiveness is so casual, it found its way to the lyrics of different songs by known artists: from Ringo Starr to Eminem to Carrie Underwood. But did you know the story behind this casual expression? It’s been said that in the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names to see who their Valentine would be. To do this, they would wear the name pinned to their sleeve for one week so that everyone would know their supposed true feelings. This etymology made me wonder how uncomplicated it must be like to just go around declaring your search for true love and actually finding it. On second thought, isn’t this the basic principle of internet dating? So it is possible to meet your true love by clicking the right button – rather, profile? The answer to that question was served to me by one of my clients who told me her cyber-love story. I did her hair and makeup and it has been customary for me to know a little bit about my clients. Actually, I didn’t even insist or pry. She was very enthusiastic to tell me how she met her then cyber-prince. She told me how they met on Facebook, fell in love, met personally and got married – now they have a 4-year-old kid. All of that because she happens to be one of those who applied the basic principle of the old days: “to wear your heart on your sleeves.” “You have to be very specific with what you want. I was so specific in my description. I said I wanted to be

with a Chinese guy, earning an average income and so on…”, my client advised as she recalls the fond memories she had when she decided to start her (online) search for “forever.” I was kind of skeptic, imagining how vulnerable I’d be if I were to be as open as she claimed but hey, who am I to argue with a happily married woman with an adorable child? But just in case there are others out there who are like me – careful and cautious to a fault – It wouldn’t hurt to pay attention to these advice I gathered from my client, as well as from those I know who have worn their hearts on their sleeves and succeeded in finding true love. Here are 3 tips on finding love on the Internet. 1. BE SPECIFIC Just like what my client told me, you have to know what you want and state it in 250 characters or less. Most relationships end because neither parties know what they want out of the relationship or one of them just aren’t interested in knowing. Suffice to say that all relationships should start with a basic understanding of what you really want. It doesn’t have to be as detailed, not to mention overboard, as knowing how many children you want or the layout of your love nest. But it would be a good start to know what you want in a relationship – and know who or what type of person you want to have that relationship with. 2. BE HONEST Now this deals with what kind of person they expect to have a relationship with. Don’t be afraid to tell something interesting about you like your obsession to peanut butter or your love-hate relationship with your neighbor’s dog (on second thought, you can leave that last part out – animal lovers are adorable). You can be open about yourself without selling yourself out. Just remember, it is better to be yourself than to pretend

someone you are not. 3. INCLUDE A WELL-WRITTEN INTRODUCTION AND A GOOD PICTURE And when I say, “well-written,” I mean grammatically correct. It doesn’t have to be an autobiography. A twitter-like intro would be enough but make sure it is not filled with typos and wrong tenses. When in doubt: google it. The picture has to be recent. I am not one to judge those who love to use filters and photo editing apps but please make sure it’ll still look like YOU, the real ‘Iwoke-up-like-this’ You. Tinder, Hinge, Match.com., You name it, these dating apps are everywhere. And while some (like my client) have found their true love via the internet, not everybody end up in the same happy ending. As much as I wish otherwise, some people can be misleading – or worse, psycho killers. So take the necessary precaution. I agree that we should once in a while wear our “hearts” on our sleeves (or post in on the web), but it would save you a ton of heartaches if you proceed with caution. Good luck and Happy Valentine’s Day! !!! Dfe\k Cl `j X DXi`bèX$Yfie# XnXi[$nèeè^ Z\c\Yi`kp Y\Xlkp jkpc`jk n`k_ _`j fne Z_Xè 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\kè^ ZXdgX`êj% 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

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David DiMuzio: A Pinoy-at-heart American

On the PEP Front

even took “Paru-Parong Bukid” to a classic level, and Illinois Rip Chords chose “Dahil Sa Iyo” as its competition piece. What exactly is there in the Filipino songs that made foreigners not only fall in love with them but also satiated their emotional impulses by singing the songs from the heart? “Tagalog songs are deeply communicative and expressive. There’s the genuine outpouring of personal sentiments and relatable human emotions while expressing the purity of self-professed love, longing, pain, and even desperation,” explains international singer-songwriter, composer David DiMuzio who’s moniker became a familiar fixture in the local music scene after having recorded and posted on YouTube a voluminous number of Pinoy pop songs. An Italian by ethnicity and an American by birth (a 4th generation American from North Carolina), David was a high school dropout but that didn’t thwart or led him wayward since he was determined and focused to succeed in the career he loved most -- songwriting. “I’m more of a songwriter than a singer,” he admitted. But it wasn’t until he was 21 when he performed professionally at a wine bar although he already wrote songs when he was barely 9 years old.

People, Events, Places BOBBY T. YALONG

IT’S always fascinating to listen to or watch a foreigner faultlessly singing Tagalog songs. Aside from the uplifting feeling of unexplainable pride inevitably induced by the situation, it indubitably gives the alien tongue the opportunity to communicate efficiently through music which the world relentlessly considers the universal language. Take the case of the pretty Russian model-singer Anna Rabtsun who could effortlessly sing Gloc9’s “Sirena” or YouTube user xxxthunrrbltxx who posted a cover of Parokya Ni Edgar’s “Buloy.” Then there’s Jeremy Smith who recorded another Parokya Ni Edgar hit single, “Mr. Suave,” fully donned in Barong Tagalog complete with mustache; American Joseph Collins singing “Pusong Bato” for his Filipina wife; Mexican international actress-singer Thalia rendering “Nandito Ako;” and a lot more who proudly posted on social media their vocal achievements in Tagalog. Eartha Kitt brought the Visayan song “Waray-Waray” to an international level, Lindsey O’Connor of England emotionally rendered “Sana Maulit Muli” sans a single foreign accent, while a Latina sang “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” like a bonafide born Pinay. But even before the advent of the internet, international recording artists had already professed their admiration for Tagalog songs like the immortal 1938 Miguel Velarde, Jr.’s composition, “Dahil Sa Iyo,” which was waxed by Jerry Vale (1963), Julio Iglesias (1973), Nat King Cole (1964), The Everly Brothers, and The Lettermen (from their all-Tagalog album which included “Ikaw,” “Hindi Kita Malimot,” and “Sapagka’t Kami Ay Tao Lamang”). Even international choral groups had chosen Tagalog songs for their prestigious performances: a Canadian choir and the Brown University Chorus flawlessly delivered “Rosas Pandan,” a group of Norwegians did “Pusong Bato,” an American choir I`Zf 9cXeZf n`k_ ;Xm`[ ;`Dlq`f

“I didn’t find it late to start a career at 21. I guess it was just the right time since I’ve mellowed and was made stern by the experiences I encountered during my formative years,” the multi-talented singerperformer opined. Possessing a considerable visionary approach to life, David exemplifies a true-blooded Aquarian (having been born on February 8) who is, in a nutshell, full of fairness sans discrimination and innately imaginative. Since communication is essentialin his singing career David deemed it right to choose a language that could stimulate interest and magnetize curiosity while performing… and he chose Tagalog. “You might be surprised…but I’m one-fourth Pinoy,” he voluntarily admitted. “Actually, my grandmother from my father side was a Filipina!” And punctuated his revelation with a grin of pride accompanied with a shoulder shrug. David knows exactly that one easy surefire way to win his Filipino audience was by speaking the language fluently and delivering his music with such spontaneity the very manner how a Pinoy does. He successfully transcended the language barrier and its contextual intricacies with keen attention to his accustomed schwa resonance and aspirated final

Vic-Pauleen’s rocky path to the altar by ALLAN

POLICARPIO

Inquirer.net

THEIR lips met not without a little humor. Before lifting the veil of his bride (Pauleen Luna), the groom (Vic Sotto) turned his gaze to the people inside the church, and pulled a face. He dabbed his wife’s lips with a finger, and tasted it, sending the couple into a fit of giggles. Then, at last, the TV host-comedian leaned forward for the kiss, with the crowd erupting into cheers. The embrace that followed, however, was different. It was long and touching, with Vic and Pauleen patting each other’s backs and mouthing the words, “I love you,” as the song “When I Fall in Love” came on. Vic, who’s usually reserved, was misty-eyed after, fanning his eyes with his hand to hold back the tears. It was, the couple related, one of the wedding’s most “emotional moments”—one that had memories flooding back. “When we hugged, the years flashed back, everything we’ve been through,” Pauleen, looking radiant in her Francis Libiran gown, told reporters, more than an hour after they tied the knot at St. James the Great Parish in Muntinlupa City, last Saturday, Dec. 30. The path to the altar was, undoubtedly, a rocky one for Vic, 61, and Pauleen, 27. For almost five years, the couple have had to parry incessant negativity from critics denouncing their relationship, mostly because of their 34-year age gap—this was emphasized by the fact that Pauleen was once a contestant in the noontime show “Eat Bulaga’s” “Little Miss Philippines” segment. Pauleen was called, among many other things, a gold digger—a comment she found most unfair. “It wasn’t easy, but … things ended up well,” said Pauleen, who walked down the aisle with her mother, Chat, and father, Eugenio. Another hurdle was getting the blessing of Vic’s children, Danica and Oyo (with Dina Bonnevie), Paulina (with Angela Luz) and Vico (with Coney Reyes), some of whom had initial misgivings about their dad’s MayDecember romance. But after several talks with his children, Vic and Pauleen eventually received their blessing. Vic also turned emotional during the homily when the officiating priest, Fr. Jeffrey Quintela, thanked the actor-host’s children for “giving their father a chance to prove that he could be a good husband again.”

“T” sounds which aren’t applicable in Tagalog words. Who was to be credited for his leaning towards Tagalog songs? “It was actually a Filipino singersongwriter and multi-intrumentalist River Maya frontman Rico Blanco who influenced me to concentrate in Tagalog songs. I watched one of his shows in Makati…. Oh, before I forget, I’ve already resided in the Philippines for three years,” David confessed. “We became friends and learned a lot from him. But I have to say, my father had the earliest influence on me… he’s also a singer.” So far, to date, David is mighty proud that he has more than a hundred Tagalog songs that he painstakingly mastered with some he has fittingly given English interpretations. David has already recorded four albums: the first two in English, one under Star Records, and eight Tagalog songs being recorded with English version. David’s avid followers could view most of his personal recordings and videos in YouTube and that increases his growing fan base. “I’m actually concentrating on recording more Tagalog songs after having recorded Chinese and Indonesian songs and maybe, Japanese. I always make it a point to squeeze into my schedule a visit to the Philippines every time I have performances around Asia. It felt great to be reconnected with my friends in Manila, savor the native cuisine, and enrich my Tagalog vocabulary.” David said. From among the many Filipino songs he has learned and recorded, David picked two that he considered the best he has done with the most fulfilling results: River Maya’s “Himala” and Noel Cabangon’s “Kanlungan.” “Every culture has a different and distinct music style and the Philippines had its own uniqueness that is easy to fall in love with. Tagalog songs are plaintive and haunting with poignantly lingering melody. The lyrics are poetic and mostly expressing supplication, elegiac pleas with the composite elements of soulful emotions. It’s easy to relate as well as to impart,” David candidly dispensed his thoughts while verbally sounding like under the Pinoy spell. His memorable stint in the Philip-

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pines in 2009 gave him the chance to collaborate with top Filipino talents like Yeng Constantino, Mikey Bustos, Moymoy Palaboy, Nyoy Volante, Rhap Salazar, Yassi Pressman, among others. His original composition, “Naiisip Mo Ba?,” has incredibly received almost 5 million views. When queried how long does it take him to fully master a Tagalog song, the Italian-American with a Pinoy heart instantaneously replied: “Before it used to take a couple of days or even a week for me to fully master the lyrics and the melody but lately, a day or two would be just right since I was already familiar with the flow of the musicality and meanings of every word in the song.” With regards to how his Filipino audience react to his Tagalog-loaded repertoire: “The Filipinos in America are more appreciative than those who are in the Philippines. Here, they find it something special and far from the ordinary compared to others who seemed less impressed.” It was astounding to learn that David isn’t only a virtuoso on guitar, the ukulele, bass guitar, and even the piano but he’s got another skill with the use of props far from the musical instruments he used to handle and play. “I was one time a world champion juggler,” he openly revealed to my amazement. “I bested a little more than a hundred contestants in 2001.” That victory landed him a job as the youngest, at 18, headline performer in the history of Disney, Royal Caribbean, Holland America,

Princess, Cunard, and Norwegian Cruise Lines that took him to seventy-seven countries around the world. At times David incorporates his juggling expertise with his singing performances. Incidentally, having tasted (and tested) gastronomic creations from different kitchens, one expects David to be already a skilled cook but read on what he has to say: “I don’t cook. What are restaurants around for? But I know what tastes best and what ingredient seems to be lacking in a dish,” he frankly said. “And I am very partial with coconut…anything with coconut milk. I love laing (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk), guinataang langka (young jackfruit with coconut milk), and gising-gising (green beans with ground pork or chicken in coconut milk).” Noticeably, David has totally embraced his Filipino traits and comfortably adjusted his palate to every Filipino native dish with coconut. And to test his consistency, we dare asked him his favorite drink which he immediately replied without qualm: “Buko!” The name David DiMuzio will, unquestionably, go down in the annals of the Philippine entertainment history as a multi-faceted performer, achiever, cultural ambassador, and inspirational icon whose clever deeds are as rich as his imagination with a heart as unadulterated as a genuine Pinoy. For comments and suggestions, please email to: gemini0646@yahoo.com.

Philippine-New York Jaycees sets induction ceremony THE Philippine-New York Jaycees Inc., will hold its 53rd Annual Induction of Board of Directors, Officers and Advisers on Feb 27, 6:30pm, in Renaissance Hotel, 130 East, 57th Street, New York, New York. In October last year, the general membership elected Stevenson Van Derodar as its 53rd LOM President after having been an active member for six years. Derodar previously served positions as Director, Membership Services Vice President and International Affairs Vice President. The event dubbed as “The Heart of Impact: 2016 JCI Philippine-New York Induction Ball and Presentation of members,” will have a special celebration featuring Ballroom Dancers, Live Music and some surprise guests. The event will expectedly hold a ceremonial exchange of authority between Chairman of the Board Immediate Past President and New York State Vice President Margaret Quimosing and (LP) Stevenson Van Derodar, Current President will symbolize the new beginning for the organization and a continuation of a leadership tradition. The ceremony will be highlighted by the turnover of

the chain to the newest leader while Past Presidents of the organization gather to light candles in support of the new mandate. This year, the chapter is hopeful to achieve its 6 Banner projects of the year including: A Heart for the Homeless, The Search for the Outstanding Young New Yorker, Icons of Impact, Bingo Social Against Malaria, UN Summit Meet and Greet and the creation of Associate Membership and JCI Philippine New York Juniors. There are as well numerous exciting projects in various areas of development to further the mission of JCI in creating positive change. JCI Philippine-New York is a New York City-based local chapter that has been serving our community for over 50 years and is proud to have more than 5,000 members who have joined the chapter through the years. These members contributed to the chapter’s rich history and continued on to become community leaders, successful businessmen, government officials, accountants, teachers, lawyers, doctors and many other professions. For over 100 years, Junior Chamber International (JCI),

where Philippine-New York Jaycees is a chapter, has been working to provide young people throughout the globe development opportunities that empower them to create positive change. A membership-based nonprofit organization of young people ages 18 to 40 in 5,000 communities and more than 100 countries around the world, JCI alumni boast leaders such as Bill Clinton, Howard Hughes, Hubert Humphrey, Kofi Annan, Taro Aso, and Prince Albert of Monaco. Each JCI Member shares the belief that in order to create lasting positive change, we must improve ourselves and the world around us. Among the other elected members into office for installation: Executive Vice President: Romainne De Guzman Luis; Vice President for Individual Development: Carlos Cabrera; Vice President for Community Development: Alex Drogeanu; Vice President for International Affairs: NYSJC Gov Reggie Rosales-Torrejon; Vice President for Membership Services: Brian Tajo; Directors: Lorraine Camacho, Elizabeth Espinar, Wendy Kwan and Alelie Jean C. Tolentino; Treasurer: Leilanee Olaño and Continued on Page 7

Inspiring Filipino-Chinese entrepreneurs

Meet the new Mr. And Mrs. Vic Sotto

“We’re happy for the support of Vic’s family. It was an answered prayer,” Pauleen added. The reception was held at the nearby Filinvest Tent, which was tastefully decorated with white flowers, crystal charms and light fixtures. Dinner for about 250 guests was catered by Bizu. The festivities featured the couple dancing silly in a fun dance number to the ditties, “Dessert” and “Hotline Bling,” and exchanging wedding vows, among other things.

From Page 3 is highly valued and encouraged among the young. We can trace the roots of the Chinese in the Philippines to either the Fujianese or Cantonese dialect groups of the Han Chinese ethnicity. Most pure-blooded Chinese in the Philippines come from the province of Fujian in China and are called Fujianese or Hoklo. Mixed Chinese people who have either Malay or Spanish (or both) ancestry are called Chinese mestizos. During the Spanish times, they were legally classified as Mestizo de Sangley as printed on their community tax certificates. A number of Chinese mestizos ManilaTimes.net photos have surnames that reflect their “Sanay ako sa mga dyowa heritage, mostly two or three syllang, sa syotitay, syota, mga lables that have Chinese roots. They fling! Masarap pala sabihing, use the full name of a Chinese ances‘asawa ko,’” Vic jested, eliciting tor and provide a Hispanic phonetic laughter. But turning serious, spelling. Vic once again thanked his kids The Chinese mestizos are somefor understanding him, saying, “I times called Chinoy or Tsinoy, alwon’t waste the respect and love though this term is more accurate you give me.” for pure-blooded Chinese-Filipinos. Pauleen, on the other hand, However, the Chinoy is not to be thanked her husband for “stickmistaken for chinito, a term used ing it out and fighting for me.” to describe physical characteristics “You made me see that true love — slanted eyes — rather than deknows no age, no boundaries,” scribing ethnic origin or cultural orishe said. entation.

In contrast with the mixed blooded Chinese mestizos, few Chinese Filipinos are plantation owners. This is partly due to the fact that it was only until recently that the Chinese in the Philippines became Filipino citizens. The law prohibited them from owning land. These days, most Chinese Filipinos are urban dwellers. At least 50% of them live within Metro Manila, while the rest reside in the major cities of the Philippines such as Cebu, Iloilo and Davao. They can be found everywhere. The famous Filipino entrepreneurs are mostly Chinese Eight out of the most famous Filipino entrepreneurs are businessmen whose families emigrated from Mainland China to the Philippines before World War II when the economy was strong. Some sought out regular employment and others set up small businesses. Although each took a different approach, there is one common denominator among them before they became famous Filipino entrepreneurs — unparalleled work ethic. While there are other factors that contribute to their achievements, such as being frugal, a good financial sense, and a strong network

of fellow Chinese businessmen for support, the collective image of these famous Filipino entrepreneurs working hard and diligently has stuck in the minds of budding entrepreneurs in the Philippines. Indeed, if one wants to be a successful entrepreneur, there is much to learn from the Chinese Filipino entrepreneurs. In my next article, I will provide an overview of the most famous Filipino entrepreneurs, mostly Chinese with a few mestizos. We have a lot to learn from these icons of the local business scene. *** Gif]% Jfi`Xef `j Xe 8J<8E =Xd`cp 9ljè\jj 8[m`jfi# 9ffb 8lk_fi# <o\Zlk`m\ ;ì\Zkfi f] 8j\Xe$YXj\[ :fejlckè^ îflg# Nfe^ " 9\iejk\è 8[m`jfip Xe[ GifîXd ;ì\Zkfi ]fi I\Xc <jkXk\ Xe[ k_\ ]fid\i :_Xì f] k_\ DXib\kè^ :cljk\i f] k_\ 8K<E<F >iX[lXk\ JZ_ffc f] 9ljè\jj% ?\ `j jcXk\[ kf [\c`m\i X kXcb fe G_`c`ggè\ 9ljè\jj Xe[ =iXeZ_`jè^ Fggfikle`k`\j% K_\ Ôijk kXcb `j è EP fe =\Y ( Xk k_\ G_`c`ggè\ :fejlcXk\ Xe[ 9fjkfe fe =\Y + Xk k_\ ?XimXi[ :Xdglj Xe[ è C8% K_\ kXcb `j fi^Xe`q\[ Yp k_\ G_`c`ggè\ :fejlcXk\ è E\n Pfib# è Zffi[èXk`fe n`k_ k_\ 9X^fe^ BlckliXe^ Gèfp YbgèZ%fi^ # k_\ ?XimXi[ G_`c`ggè\ =fild# K=: n`k_ 8j`Xe AflieXc Xj d\[`X gXike\i% =fi k_fj\ èk\i\jk\[ kf Xkk\e[# gcj \dX`c eql\cb\7^dX`c%Zfd% Gif] Jfi`XefËj Yljè\jj Xik`Zc\j ZXe Xcjf Y\ XZZ\jj\[ Xk nnn% =XdèYljè\j%Zfd%

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Perfect timing for LizQuen’s teleserye comeback ONE of prime time TV’s hit love teams, Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil, seems to be returning to the demands of a nightly drama series at the perfect time in their personal lives—that is, if the latter’s promise is to be kept. This week, the showbiz press corps eagerly reminded the young and good-looking pair behind 2015’s highly successful prime time series “Forevermore” on ABS-CBN that Enrique had said he would start courting Liza when she turned 18. The beautiful Filipina-American came of age on January 4, and they will be spending lots of time again as they star in the same network’s newest teleserye, “Dolce Amore,” which begins airing on February 15. Replying in a roundabout way, Enrique told the press that he and Liza are “in a happy place” at the moment and that he sees no need

for labels so long as they are, like he said, “happy.” “Hindi pa siguro ngayon . . .” he added when pressed to say whether he will court his screen partner or not. “Marami pang kailangang i-prioritize.” The pair, who launched their new show at the ABS-CBN headquarters with the powerhouse cast, was more generous talking about “Dolce Amore.” This time, they portray two young wandering souls, each in search of who they really are, while suddenly brought together by destiny. “It’s a project I think almost everyone will be able to relate to. It’s about finding your identity and finding love, and the story is just so fun and uplifting,” said Liza. Liza plays Serena, a young girl raised in Italy by her adoptive

parents. Though she lives a good life, she cannot shake off the feeling that an important part of her identity seems to be missing—the truth about where she came from. Bearing the same struggles is the character of Enrique, Tenten, who grew up in an orphanage suffering from the pain of his real parents’ rejection. A hardworking “raketero,” Tenten takes on different jobs to help his adoptive family. “It’s a ‘peasant meets a princess’ kind of feel. It’s a very light teleserye, the kind that we all love—much like ‘Forevermore,’” shared Enrique. Liza said that fans should expect her team-up with Enrique to level up in terms in terms of emotions, since they are both more open to experimenting with their characters at this junction in their careers.

Connections: Couples who have found love online

From Page 3

No Boundaries By ALLYSON

ESCOBAR AJPRESS

Mark & PJ Met through : Tinder in 2014 Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil announce their latest TV venture, ʻDolce Amoreʼ

Love is when the person is your other half, no matter the distance Mark Bautista, 24, and his girlfriend Lending support to their of over a year, Precious Joy aka. “PJ,” latest endeavor for TV are ABS22, met on the social dating app TinCBN heartthrob Matteo Guidicelli, der in 2014. The location-based appliCherie Gil, Ruben Maria Soriquez, cation, which connects to Facebook, Edgar Mortiz, Rio Locsin, and matched Mark and PJ up as a pair Kean Cipriano, with Sunshine while the two were both working in Cruz, Andrew E, and Frenchie Dy. Manila, where Tinder culture is large (ManilaTimes.net) and thriving. After just a few weeks on Tinder, Mark asked PJ for coffee, and the rest was history. The two made it official after just a few weeks of dating. “My friends would always make fun of me for using the app [Tinder], but then I showed it to them and From Page 6 soon they were using it too,” Mark, a Auditor: Marjerie Rosales-Taway. videographer now based in Southern Presidential appointments California, laughed. to be inducted as well include When he and PJ began dating, it Alumni Affairs Head: Mel was apparent from the start that the Rodriguez; International both of them were going to leave to Outbound Missions Liaison: Olga the US to launch their careers individMaria Czarkowski; Tambuli Editorually. Back home in the Philippines, in-Chief: Joe Valdez; Chaplain they hardly saw each other because and Communications Advisor: of PJ’s frequent visits to her family Addie Adams; Presidential Admin in the northern province of Isabela. Staff Aprille Aquino; Media They communicated frequently, and Network Officer Christopher when they did see each other, it was Fallarme; Board Secretary: Robert as if no time had passed. Fernandez and Chapter State Soon, long distance began to run Directors: Carolyn Joyce Agustin its course. Mark obtained his visa Peña & John Sohn. and went to California to continue This year’s presidential advisers his career, while PJ took up a teminclude JCI Sen/PP Richie Rillera; porary position in Colorado, working JCI Sen/PP Antero Martinez; JCI for hotel management, before she Sen/PP Jocelyn Bernal-Ochoa; JCI went back home to Manila for work Sen/PP Vivian RL Velasco and USJC in December 2015. Mark remained Amb/PP Bel Molina (50th). in Southern California with his famThis year’s board advisers ily. Despite nearly a day’s time differinclude JCI Sen/PP Sergs Estrada; ence, the two have always made it JCI Sen Penn Baluyut; JCI Sen/ work, with the help of communicaPP Richie Rillera; JCI Sen/PP tion and technology, mutual respect, Rene Goicochea; USJC Amb/PP and maturity. Nicanor Luna; JCI Sen/PP CriCri “We’re really private about our reRamos; NYSJC Gov/PP Krizteen lationship, and it’s one of the factors Concepcion; NYSJC Gov/PP that’s kept us going. No one’s going Christina Corcuera; JCI Sen/PP to bother you. We’ve gotten a lot Gary Abasolo; PP Victor E. de Leon; stronger as a couple, especially after PP Elaine Magalona; NYSJC Gov/PP this first year.” Almor Dayoan and Past President The two were also able to see each Zultan Bermudez.

John Lloyd and Bea spotted in Balesin? Philippine-New showbiz has finally happened? Let’s take a look back at the events that led to John Lloyd and Bea’s supposed Balesin Island sightFROM blog sites to soccer ing. moms’Viber groups, the supposed On January 14, DJ Mo Twister sighting of “perfect on screen couple” tweeted that a TV reporter disclosed and noted actors John Lloyd Cruz over his podcast Good Times with and Bea Alonzo in the exclusive Mo that John Lloyd and Bea are island resort of Balesin has been ablaze since last week, sending fans indeed a item, and that “an overlapof the 14-year-old blockbuster movie ping” had taken place in their respective relationships with Angelica and tandem into sheer excitement. Zanjoe. “Finally!” typed a thirty-someWhile all four celebrities kept thing mom of three in her all-girls’ quiet about the rumour—with the Viber group, though sadly adding she felt bad for Angelica Panganiban two men very much in the news at and Zanjoe Marudo, John Lloyd and the time as John Lloyd went to Congress for a Metro Manila Film Festival Bea’s erstwhile significant others. Probe, and Zanjoe’s promos for his “But kilig ako for Popoy and new teleserye, “Tubig at Langis” on Basha!” she typed just as quickly, and obviously with glee. Popoy and ABS-CBN—it was only the latter part of the month that admission and Basha are the pair’s iconic roles in the box-office record-breakers “One confirmations were finally made on More Chance” in 2007, and its sequel, the alleged break-ups. On January 20, Zanjoe admitted “A Second Chance,” which was just to host Boy Abunda on his late night released in November 2015. Another mom agreed, and with ABS-CBN talk show that he and Bea had ended their five-year relationher very own contribution to the uber showbiz Viber session revealed ship. The actor refused to further details on why they parted ways. she saw Angelica in a coffee shop In no time, netizens began of a posh mall last weekend “not looking too happy” as she drank her tweeting sightings of the on-screen couple finally together in real life, coffee and smoked her cigarette all first dining in a Tagaytay restaurant, by her lonesome. and now in Balesin, as collated by Given all the excitement—and www.adobotalk.ph on January 30 bits of commiseration—could it be and February 3, respectively. Another true that the most awaited reelblogsite www.allaboutjuan.info also to-real life coupling in Philippine by TESSA

York Jaycees...

MAURICIO-ARRIOLA

ManilaTimes

To borrow a line from a popular song in the ʻ80s, have Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz decided to ʻmake it real?ʼ reported similar posts from social network users. Last Thursday, Feb. 4, DZBB radio anchor Arnold Clavio joined in the gossip fest as he told listeners he was looking a photo of John Lloyd and Bea in matching hats at the exclusive resort as sent by his source. Clavio even related the same source as saying that while “the girl” was more discreet in giving away that she and her leading man are indeed an item, the two celebrities will in fact make an official announcement on their status very soon. If life has indeed imitated art, then all that is left is to wish these two talented actors the best of luck in making everything real—finally.

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other last year, sharing their love for travel while visiting the East Coast; Canada, New York, New Jersey, and Washington DC. It was a rare moment for the two to be face to face, in a relationship rooted and sustained in online digital communication. “We connect mostly through Facebook, Viber, and Skype--we Skype almost every single day, at the same time, while I’m going home and she is on her way to work,” Mark shared. “As a long-distance couple, communication is the thing that will really hold us together.” The couple also sends each other surprise gifts for birthdays and holidays, despite being oceans apart, and they have many future travel plans in mind, including a grand tour of Asia. “You need to bond by doing things together, and learn from each other. We love to travel; she loves photography, I love video. She teaches me cooking--for example, when she was in Colorado we were on Skype, and she taught me how to cook while on camera. Those are our dates. And we are very similar--she’s the girl version of myself.” Mark and PJ hope to settle together in the US someday, but for now, they will continue to pursue their careers and work on growing themselves. They continue to communicate every day. “Respect and communication. That’s key. You need to be mature enough to know what’s right and wrong, and to be understanding of one another’s situations,” Mark shared. “Now, after a whole year--I’m proud to say we are making it.”

An Asian Journal

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